The Upper Mustang Trek is a journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally preserved regions. Often referred to as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom," Upper Mustang offers a unique blend of stunning desert landscapes, ancient Tibetan culture, and significant Buddhist heritage. This trek provides an extraordinary opportunity to explore the hidden valleys, ancient monasteries, and traditional Tibetan lifestyles largely untouched by modern influences. The addition of Luri Gumba and Lo Manthang enriches the trek with deeper cultural and spiritual experiences.

Starting Point: Jomsom

The trek typically begins in Jomsom, a small town in the Annapurna region that is accessible by a short flight from Pokhara. Jomsom serves as the gateway to Upper Mustang and is located in the Kali Gandaki Valley. The trek starts with a drive or flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, followed by an acclimatization day in Jomsom before heading into the Upper Mustang region.

Trek to Kagbeni

From Jomsom, the trail leads to Kagbeni, a charming village that acts as a gateway to Upper Mustang. Located at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and the Kagbeni rivers, Kagbeni is an important cultural and trade hub. The village features traditional Tibetan architecture, narrow alleyways, and ancient monasteries. Kagbeni also provides stunning views of the Nilgiri peaks and serves as a base for acclimatization before entering the restricted Upper Mustang region.

Entering Upper Mustang

With the necessary permits and permissions in place, the trek continues into Upper Mustang, an area known for its stark, desert-like landscapes and ancient Tibetan culture. The landscape here is marked by high-altitude deserts, eroded canyons, and colorful rock formations. The Upper Mustang trek follows the Kali Gandaki River, passing through small villages and ancient caves.

Lo Manthang

The highlight of the trek is the visit to Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of the Mustang Kingdom. Situated at 3,810 meters, Lo Manthang is a walled city with a unique blend of Tibetan and Nepalese influences. The city is home to impressive monasteries, including the Jampa Lhakhang (also known as the "God's Temple"), the Thubchen Monastery, and the Chodey Monastery. Lo Manthang also offers fascinating glimpses into the traditional lifestyle of the Mustang people, with their traditional houses, vibrant festivals, and rich cultural practices.

Luri Gumba

An important cultural and spiritual highlight of the trek is Luri Gumba, an ancient cave monastery located on the remote cliffs of the Mustang region. Luri Gumba is renowned for its historical significance and unique cave temples. The monastery is believed to have been established in the 8th century and is adorned with ancient murals and statues depicting Buddhist deities. Visiting Luri Gumba offers a profound insight into the region’s Buddhist heritage and the ancient practices that have shaped Mustang’s spiritual landscape.

Return Journey

The return journey typically retraces the route back to Jomsom, with opportunities to explore additional villages and enjoy the changing landscapes. The trek concludes with a flight or drive back to Pokhara or Kathmandu, where you can reflect on your remarkable journey through Upper Mustang.

The Upper Mustang Trek is considered moderate to challenging due to the high altitude, remote terrain, and variable weather conditions. The trek involves several days of walking at elevations above 3,000 meters, with the highest point reaching around 4,200 meters. The terrain can be rugged and arid, with significant elevation changes. Trekkers should be in good physical condition and prepared for potential altitude-related issues.

The ideal times for the Upper Mustang Trek are during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is relatively stable, and the skies are clear, offering the best views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. The spring season also brings vibrant colors to the landscape, while autumn provides crisp, clear air.

The Upper Mustang region is a restricted area, and special permits are required to trek here. Trekkers need to obtain the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits can be arranged through trekking agencies in Kathmandu or Pokhara. The permits are essential for ensuring that the unique cultural and environmental aspects of the region are preserved.

We would like to inform you about the Upper Mustang Trek. You need a minimum of two people in a group for this trip, which you already have. And require a special permit for the Upper Mustang Restricted Area (provided by only a government-registered trekking agency), and on the list, you need one government-licensed trekking guide. As this is a restricted area trip, you need 3 different permits, which are listed below:

[I] ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) permits, 

[II] Upper Mustang Restricted Area Trekking Permit

[III] TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System)

While organizing those permits, the immigration office of Nepal asked for your Nepal visa, which requires you to validate your return trip and passport and visa copy with 3 copies of PP-sized pictures of each of you. 

Upper Mustang is renowned for its rich Tibetan cultural heritage. The region is home to the Mustang people, who follow Tibetan Buddhism and maintain traditional customs that have been preserved for centuries. The trek offers numerous opportunities to engage with the local culture, including visiting monasteries, participating in local festivals, and experiencing traditional Tibetan practices.

Lo Manthang: As the ancient capital of Mustang, Lo Manthang is a focal point for cultural exploration. The city's monasteries and temples are important centers of Buddhist learning and practice. The annual Tiji Festival, celebrated in Lo Manthang, is a significant cultural event that involves colorful rituals and performances.

Luri Gumba: Luri Gumba is a key site for understanding the region's spiritual history. The monastery's ancient cave temples and murals provide a window into the early Buddhist practices of the Mustang region. The visit to Luri Gumba offers a unique opportunity to connect with the region's spiritual heritage.

The flora and fauna of Upper Mustang are adapted to the high-altitude desert environment. The region features sparse vegetation, including hardy shrubs, grasses, and hardy plants that thrive in arid conditions. The unique landscape supports wildlife such as the Himalayan blue sheep, snow leopards, and various bird species. The stark beauty of the landscape, with its eroded canyons and colorful rock formations, is a defining feature of the trek.

Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. Spend time at lower altitudes before ascending, and stay hydrated throughout the trek.

Physical preparation: Prepare for the trek with regular cardiovascular and strength training exercises. Previous trekking experience at high altitudes is beneficial.

Packing Essentials: Pack appropriate gear, including warm clothing, sturdy trekking boots, sun protection, and a good-quality sleeping bag. The weather can be variable, so be prepared for both cold and sunny conditions.

Respect Local Customs: Respect the local traditions and practices of the Mustang people. Dress modestly, ask for permission before taking photographs, and follow local customs when visiting religious sites.

Environmental Responsibility: Follow the Leave No Trace principles by carrying out all waste, avoiding plastic use, and sticking to marked trails to minimize your impact on the environment.

Drive Kathmandu to Pokhara (950 m) in 6 to 7 Hours   (or Fly Kathmandu to Pokhara (950 m) in 20 to 30 minutes)