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$1,950
per person · 16 days
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Upper Mustang Trek · 16 days

16 days3,850m maxDifficulty: Moderate
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$1,950/ person · 16 days
Stay · Food · Travel · Permits included

Trek at a glance

Duration
16 days
Max Altitude
3,850m
Trek Distance
140 km / 87 miles
Transportation
Tourist bus/jeep & flight

Overview

The Upper Mustang Trek - 16 Days is Nepal’s most complete journey into the last forbidden kingdom, offering extended time for cultural immersion and exploration. This trek visits remote villages and ancient sites where medieval Tibetan culture has remained remarkably preserved.

The route passes through striking high-altitude desert landscapes of ochre, red, and grey cliffs, deep canyons, and wide open valleys. Lo Manthang, the walled capital, features a royal palace and centuries-old monasteries, providing a living museum of Tibetan Buddhist heritage.

Trekking also includes mysterious sky caves carved into cliffs over 2,000 years ago. These ancient sites reveal traditional meditation and burial practices still observed by local communities.

Villagers of Ghyakar, Samar, and other remote settlements maintain authentic Tibetan Buddhist lifestyles. Travelers can interact with the Loba people and witness centuries-old customs largely unchanged by modern tourism.

The extended itinerary allows more time for photography, capturing the desert landscapes at different times of day. It also offers a relaxed pace and better acclimatization compared to shorter treks.

The maximum altitude is 3,850m at Yamda La Pass, making it accessible to fit trekkers without extreme high-altitude risk. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are ideal, and the region’s rain shadow allows trekking even during monsoon season.

This 16-day Upper Mustang Trek is perfect for culture enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers seeking unhurried exploration. It combines spectacular landscapes, living heritage, and intimate access to one of Nepal’s most extraordinary hidden kingdoms.

General Information

Detail

Information

Region

Mustang (Annapurna), Nepal

Start/End Point

Jomsom (via Pokhara)

Best Season

March-May, September-November (also June-August)

Group Size

Minimum 2 (restricted area requirement)

Guide

Mandatory (restricted area)

Special Permit

Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit required

Why Choose Nepal Visuals For The 16 Day Upper Mustang Trek?

Sixteen days to experience Upper Mustang without compromise.

More time in the forbidden kingdom means unhurried days in Lo Manthang, deeper encounters with Loba communities, and space to explore remote monasteries and canyon landscapes that shorter itineraries can only skim.

Restricted area permits handled from start to finish.

Upper Mustang requires a tightly controlled permit, a mandatory licensed guide, and careful documentation at multiple checkpoints. We manage every layer of the process so your access to this protected corridor is never left to chance.

Lo Manthang given the days it actually deserves.

The ancient walled capital is the heart of this trek and our itinerary reflects that. Multiple days in and around Lo Manthang allow its royal palace, living monasteries, and centuries-old lanes to reveal themselves at a natural pace.

Cave monasteries and sky caves included, not rushed past.

Sites like Luri Gompa, Chungsi Cave, and the Mustang sky caves are among the most extraordinary archaeological treasures in the Himalayas. Our guides know each one well and build genuine time into the schedule to explore them properly.

Complete and honest pricing before any permits are filed.

Upper Mustang carries some of the highest permit fees in Nepal trekking. We present the full cost of your 16 days, every permit, transfer, accommodation, and guide fee, clearly and upfront so your budget holds firm throughout.

All logistics confirmed well before you reach Jomsom.

The Pokhara to Jomsom flight, teahouse bookings for all 16 nights, and every transfer along the restricted zone are arranged in advance so the journey begins cleanly and nothing important is left unresolved on arrival.

Loba culture encountered with genuine depth.

Sixteen days creates room for real community engagement, monastery visits with local monks, and time in villages that see very few outside visitors. Our guides approach every encounter with the respect and local knowledge it requires.

Support maintained across one of Nepal's most remote routes.

Connectivity in Upper Mustang is limited and stretches of the trail are genuinely isolated. Our team stays reachable via WhatsApp, Email, and Zoom throughout all 16 days so a reliable point of contact is always available.

Your departure is guaranteed the moment you book.

Sixteen days in a restricted Himalayan kingdom deserves an unconditional commitment from the people organising it. Every confirmed 16-day Upper Mustang booking departs as planned, regardless of group size, without exception.

Itinerary

16 days · Kathmandu → Kathmandu · highest point 3,840 m

Altitude profile
Highest point
3,840 mLo Manthang · Day 7
Nights above 4,000 m
0
  1. Day 01

    Your Nepal Visuals representative meets you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfers you to your hotel in Thamel. Welcome briefing over dinner this evening.

  2. Day 02

    Scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway through terraced hillsides, the Trishuli River valley, and traditional villages. Arrive Pokhara late afternoon. Evening free at Phewa Lake.

  3. Day 03

    Early morning drive through the Kali Gandaki gorge to Jomsom, the gateway to Upper Mustang. A short afternoon trek brings you to Kagbeni, the medieval gateway village where restricted area permits are checked. Explore the ancient red-walled monastery and windswept chortens.

  4. Day 04

    Begin your journey deeper into Upper Mustang. The trail takes you through narrow valleys and rocky terrain. Pass through villages like Tangbe with whitewashed homes typical of the Upper Mustang trekking route. Arrive in Chele with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

  5. Day 05

    A beautiful mix of rugged cliffs and tranquil juniper forests. Pass through Samar village and experience the quiet beauty of Upper Mustang. After 5-6 hours arrive in Geling, where peaceful surroundings invite reflection on the stunning landscapes and ancient culture encountered so far.

  6. Day 06

    Trek through the high plateau of Lo, passing ancient chortens and prayer walls. The landscape is otherworldly: deep red and ochre cliffs, wind-carved formations, and a silence that feels almost sacred. Arrive in Charang, a historic village with a 400-year-old dzong and monastery perched above the valley.

  7. Day 07

    Arrive at Lo Manthang, the walled capital of the Forbidden Kingdom of Mustang. Walk through the single gate into a medieval city largely unchanged for 600 years. White-washed buildings, butter lamp-lit monasteries, and the Mustang royal palace rise together within the ancient walls. Visit the Thubchen and Jampa Lhakhangs.

  8. Day 08

    A full day to explore Lo Manthang. Visit Thubchen Gompa, Jampa Lhakhang, and the royal palace. Optional excursion to the ancient cliff caves of Chhoser Village, sky caves carved into vertical canyon walls over 3,000 years ago. The afternoon is yours to wander and absorb this extraordinary place.

  9. Day 09

    Begin the return journey south. Pass through Marang and descend to Ghami, a prosperous village with a 400-metre-long mani wall, one of the longest in Nepal, and a dramatic red cliff backdrop.

  10. Day 10

    A relatively easy day through the high Mustang plateau. Visit Tsarang Monastery and the crumbling Tsarang Dzong, once the second most important fortress in the kingdom. Views west toward Dhaulagiri on a clear day are extraordinary.

  11. Day 11

    Continue back toward Jomsom, passing through villages as you descend. Enjoy views of the Kali Gandaki River and surrounding peaks. After 5-6 hours reach Chhusang, a quiet village at the river confluence.

  12. Day 12

    Descend to Kagbeni then climb to Muktinath, one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus and Buddhists alike. The temple complex has 108 water spouts and an eternal flame. The Dhaulagiri-Annapurna panorama from here is unforgettable at sunrise.

  13. Day 13

    Begin your descent back to Jomsom, passing through Kagbeni and following the Kali Gandaki River. Arrive in Jomsom where you can relax and celebrate the completion of your Upper Mustang journey.

  14. Day 14

    Morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara with panoramic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri views. Board a tourist bus for the drive back to Kathmandu. Arrive evening for a farewell dinner.

  15. Day 15

    Drive back to Kathmandu along the Prithvi Highway, passing through lush valleys and terraced hills for one last look at Nepal. Arrive Kathmandu in the evening.

  16. Day 16

    Our representative transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home. Reflect on your journey through the Forbidden Kingdom, a world apart and yours to carry forever.

Dates and prices

Prices are per person, twin share, in USD. Book with a 20 % deposit — the balance is due 7 days before departure. Booking terms

September 2026
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Wed, Sep 9Thu, Sep 24, 2026

16 days · flexible departure

Available
Trip dates
  1. Starts
    Wed, Sep 9, 2026 · Kathmandu
  2. Ends
    Thu, Sep 24, 2026 · Kathmandu

USD $1,950 per person, twin share · Deposit today USD $390 (20 %)

Continue to booking

What's included

Included

13 items
Transportation & Logistics
  • Mountain Airfare: Round trip airfare between Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara and airport taxes.
  • Ground Transfers: Airport pickup and drop on a tourist vehicle.
  • Permits & Official Fees: All conservation fees, permit fees, and government taxes.
  • Official Liaison: Coordination with relevant government offices.
Professional Support & Safety
  • Expert Leadership: Govt. certified highly experienced English speaking helpful, knowledgeable and friendly trekking guide.
  • Group Support: An assistant guide provided for groups of 8 or more people.
  • Emergency Coordination: Helicopter service arrangement for emergencies (cost covered by travel insurance).
Accommodation & Meals
  • City Stay: 3-Star accommodation at Kathmandu and Pokhara on breakfast plan.
  • Trek Nutrition: Full board standard meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • Trail Lodging: The best available tea-house/lodge during trekking.
  • Celebratory Dining: Farewell dinner at a typical Nepalese restaurant in Kathmandu.
Gear & Recognition
  • Trekking Essentials: Duffle bags and trekking poles in case you don’t have your own.
  • Official Achievement: Trek Completion Certificate from Nepal Visuals.

Not included

11 items
Flights, Visas, and Logistics
  • International Travel: International flight fare and airport departure tax.
  • Entry Requirements: Nepal Entry Visa and Visa extension fees (USD 50 for 30 days and USD 125 for 90 days).
  • Baggage Overages: Extra baggage charges.
  • Miscellaneous: Any expenses other than the Price Inclusion Section.
Personal Protection & Equipment
  • Mandatory Insurance: Travel and Medical Insurance (Compulsory).
  • Rescue Costs: Charges for emergency rescue or evacuation by helicopter, if needed.
  • Individual Gear: Personal trekking gears and equipment.
Trail & City Expenses
  • Teahouse Amenities: Other charges at lodges/tea houses such as showers, internet access, battery re-charging, hot water and extra hot drink.
  • Beverages: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
  • Extended Stays: Any additional night’s accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara owing to early arrivals, late departures, or early returns from the trek.
Professional Tips and Gratuity
  • Staff Appreciation: Tips for the guides and porters.

Is this trek right for you?

Moderate

You can do this if…

  • Walk 5–6 hours a day, some of it steep
  • Carry a 5–8 kg daypack
  • Comfortable with several days in a row on foot

Recommended preparation

  • 2–3 months of regular cardio (walking, running, cycling)
  • Weekend hikes with a loaded pack
  • Read the altitude notes below — you will sleep above 3,000 m

Experience & support

  • A good first Himalayan trek
  • Guided throughout — a licensed guide is required on Nepal treks
  • Unsure about age, health or fitness? Ask us — we tailor the pace

Additional Information

Why Choose the 16-Day Extended Trek?

The two extra days transform this from a comprehensive trek into a truly immersive experience:

Additional Villages: Visit Ghyakar and Samar, traditional settlements rarely included in shorter itineraries, offering authentic cultural experiences without tourist crowds.

Extended Lo Manthang Time: Full rest day allows thorough exploration of the walled capital, visit all major monasteries without rushing, explore Chhoser cave complex properly, and optional horse ride to nearby villages or simply absorb the medieval atmosphere.

Alternative Return Route: Different villages on return provide fresh perspectives, varied landscapes and scenery, and new cultural interactions rather than retracing exact outbound steps.

Better Acclimatization: More gradual pace reduces altitude sickness risk, shorter daily walking hours (4-6 hours vs 5-7), extra rest opportunities, and better photography conditions (time for dawn and dusk shooting).

Deeper Cultural Understanding: More time with local families, attend monastery ceremonies, learn about traditional crafts, and understand daily life rhythms.

The Complete Upper Mustang Experience

This 16-day journey encompasses everything that makes Upper Mustang unique. You'll experience the complete historical arc from Kagbeni (gateway village) through increasingly remote settlements to Lo Manthang (the capital), witness the evolution of landscape from Kali Gandaki Valley to pure high-altitude desert, explore religious and cultural sites thoroughly without rushing, interact meaningfully with Loba communities, and photograph dramatic landscapes in optimal lighting.

High-Altitude Desert Like No Other

Upper Mustang's landscape is unlike anywhere else in Nepal. Located in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, this region receives minimal precipitation, creating a stark, beautiful desert environment. The terrain features barren hills in dramatic shades (ochre, rust, grey, pink), wind-carved canyons and cliff formations, ancient caves carved into vertical rock faces, and vast windswept plateaus with snow peaks as backdrop.

The extended itinerary allows time to truly appreciate this unique geography, with opportunities to explore side valleys, photograph at optimal times (sunrise/sunset), and understand how geology shaped local life.

Living Tibetan Culture

The Loba people maintain traditions virtually unchanged for centuries. With 16 days, you'll have time to truly understand their way of life: observe traditional farming methods (barley, potatoes in harsh conditions), witness spiritual practices (daily monastery rituals, prayer wheel turning), experience festivals if timing aligns (Tiji Festival in May), learn about polyandry marriage customs, see traditional crafts (weaving, pottery), and taste authentic Tibetan cuisine prepared traditionally.

This isn't superficial cultural tourism. The extended time allows genuine connections with communities that see far fewer visitors than Everest or Annapurna regions.

The Walled City of Lo Manthang

The trek's centerpiece deserves the extended time this itinerary provides. Founded in 1380, Lo Manthang remains remarkably intact: original city walls and gates still stand, royal palace occupied by king's descendants, four major monasteries with priceless artifacts, narrow alleys between whitewashed homes, traditional way of life continuing.

With a full rest day here (Day 8), you can visit Jampa Lhakhang (Red Gompa) with its towering structure and hundreds of Buddhas, explore Thubchen Monastery's 15th-century murals, attend morning prayers at Chhoede Monastery, hike to Chhoser Cave complex (2-3 hours), visit nearby Tingkhar village, photograph the city from surrounding hills, and simply absorb the medieval atmosphere.

Monasteries and Sky Caves

The extended itinerary ensures you don't rush past Upper Mustang's spiritual treasures. Key sites include Ghar Gompa (over 1,200 years old, Day 9 visit), Lo Gekar Monastery (predates Tibet's Samye Monastery), multiple village monasteries throughout, and the mysterious Chhoser cave complex.

These sky caves remain one of Mustang's great mysteries: thousands of caves carved into cliffs 50+ meters above valleys, used as meditation retreats, burial sites, living quarters, and defensive structures. Many contain ancient Buddhist murals and manuscripts. The Chhoser complex near Lo Manthang is accessible with guide assistance, offering adventure and historical intrigue.

Physical Demands and Acclimatization

The 16-day trek is rated moderate, with the extended timeframe making it more comfortable: daily walking 4-6 hours (vs 5-7 in shorter treks), maximum altitude 3,850m at Yamda La Pass (Day 10), gradual altitude gain with proper rest days, good trail conditions throughout, and accommodation more comfortable than high-altitude regions.

The challenge comes from duration (commitment of 16 days), wind exposure (constant in this region), sun and dry air (desert environment), and cumulative effect of altitude over two weeks.

Who Should Choose the 16-Day Trek?

This extended itinerary suits photographers wanting optimal lighting and composition time, culture enthusiasts seeking deep immersion, travelers who prefer relaxed pace over rushing, those with flexible schedules and time availability, anyone wanting thorough exploration of this unique region, people concerned about altitude (extra days help acclimatization), and trekkers combining Upper Mustang with other Nepal activities.

Accommodation and Meals

Kathmandu & Pokhara (Days 1, 15, 16)

3-star hotels with modern amenities, private bathrooms, hot showers, WiFi, restaurants, comfortable base before/after trek.

Upper Mustang Villages (Days 2-14)

Accommodation Standards:

Kagbeni to Charang (Days 2-5): Better facilities, multiple lodge options, some with solar hot water, basic WiFi in larger villages, attached bathrooms sometimes available

Lo Manthang (Days 6-8): Best facilities in Upper Mustang, several quality lodges, some attached bathrooms, charging stations, limited WiFi, dining rooms with heating, two nights allows laundry

Return Route Villages (Days 9-14): Range from good (Ghiling, Samar) to basic (Drakmar), adequate but simple facilities, authentic local atmosphere, fewer tourist amenities

Room Setup: Twin-sharing standard, private rooms available in larger villages (extra cost), shared bathrooms typical, squat and Western toilets, heating limited to dining areas.

Meals

Typical Menu: Dal bhat (Nepali staple, unlimited refills, most nutritious), Tibetan bread (tingmo, various styles), thukpa (warming noodle soup), tsampa (roasted barley flour, traditional), momos (dumplings, fried or steamed), yak meat dishes (local specialty), butter tea (traditional Tibetan), local apple products (Mustang apples famous).

Meal Pattern: Breakfast 7-8 AM before trekking, lunch at midday village stop, dinner 6-7 PM (early due to cold), snacks available at lodges.

Food Quality: Simple but hearty, locally sourced when possible, Tibetan cooking methods, vegetarian always available, meat quality better in larger villages, special diets (inform in advance).

Pricing: Increases with remoteness. Typical meal NPR 600-1,200 depending on location. Lo Manthang slightly higher. Drinks extra (tea NPR 100-200, coffee 150-300, beer 500-800).

Dietary Notes: Vegetarians very well accommodated, vegan possible with advance notice, gluten-free challenging (bring supplements), allergies (inform guide, carry EpiPen if severe).

Common questions