Upper Mustang Trekking - Black Diamond Expedition
  • Upper Mustang Trail
  • Upper Mustang Trail

Upper Mustang Trekking

(10 Reviews)
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  • Duration
    Duration:18 Days
  • Accomodation
    Accommodation: 5 Nights (Standard Hotel)
    12 Nights (Lodges/Tea Houses)
  • Meals
    Meals :16 Breakfast, 12 Lunch
    14 Dinner
  • Location
    Service: Airport to Airport
  • Trip Grade
    Trip Grade :Difficult
  • Max Altitude
    Max Altitude: 3,800m/12,467ft

Overview

Upper Mustang Trek is the Trans Himalayan trek in forbidden and isolated area which was restricted to outsiders until 1991. Spread from Kagbeni to Tibetan border, Upper Mustang lie in the rain shadow of Himalayas is perhaps the last enclave of pristine Tibetan Culture where the culture, lifestyle and heritage remain unchanged for centuries and to this date. Upper Mustang region bears an interesting fact that the region was under the rule of a religious king up until 2007. This tradition was abolished after the people’s movement for the democratic republic Nepal. Nevertheless, the religious king still has a high reverence.

The Upper Mustang Trekking Trail follows the salt caravan route of the old days that passes through the unique landscapes, very attractive scenery and definitely the distinct cultures. The Upper Mustang Trek offers magnificent mountain views throughout the trek. The trekking trail is surrounded by more than 35 mountains which are over 6000 meters high. We will also have an opportunity to view Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Mt. Annapurna (8091m), the two highest mountains of the world. The Upper Mustang Trekking trail initially passes through the Kaligandaki gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. As the trail leads us towards the north, the topography changees into absolutely deserted land with speedy gust of wind in the afternoon,. We pass by the tiny settlements and a number of unreachable caves. The trail finally takes us to the main destination of trek the Lo-Manthang valley, the capital of Upper Mustang. The religious king resides in a four-storey palace built more than thousand years ago. The Namgyal Gompa, Ghare Gompa, known as Lo Gekar Monastery and the oldest Tibetan monastery, built since time immemorial are some other attractions of the Upper Mustang Trek. We will explore these Gompas on our way back. The trek also offers an opportunity to view the Muktinath temple, a place of worship for both Buddhist and Hindu devouts.

Trekking in Upper Mustang not only offers the structural attractions but also provides the opportunity to experience the unique and incredible culture of the local tribes. You will be amazed to notice that all the brothers in a family marry a single girl. The villagers will heartily allow you to enter their kitchen and you will have an opportunity to get acquainted with their tradition very closely. The Tiji festival of chasing the demons, celebrated in a typical traditional way, contains interesting myths. All these unique features, beauty and legends available in the Upper Mustang region makes the Upper Mustang Trek one of the must do treks on the Earth.

Highlights

  • Trans Himalayan trek in forbidden and isolated area restricted to outsiders until 1991
  • Spectacular mountain scenery throughout the trek
  • More than 35 mountains over 6000 meters including Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Mt. Annapurna (8091m)
  • Opportunity to pass through the deepest gorge in the world, Kaligandaki
  • Structural as well as cultural, ethnic attractions

Itinerary

Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu

Upon arrival in the Kathmandu airport (TIA), you will be greeted by a representative from Black Diamond at the arrival gate. You will be then transferred to the hotel. After check into the hotel, you can either take rest; hang around in the city as it all depends upon your interests. In the evening, we will organize a Welcome Dinner at an excellent traditional Nepalese restaurant where you will enjoy a Nepalese cultural program as well as a fine meal. Overnight in Hotel Encounter Nepal.

Meals: Dinner
Max Altitude: 1350m/4429 ft

Day 2 Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation

Today after breakfast we will start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites; including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambunath) and Buddhists shrine (Buddha Nath) which is one of the largest Stupas in the world. In the afternoon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. Black Diamond briefs us regarding our trek as well as provides us an opportunity to ask any questions we may have regarding our upcoming adventure. Overnight in Hotel Encounter Nepal.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 3Drive to Pokhara

Early morning at around 7 am, we set off for Pokhara on a tourist bus. En-route we will see more of the countryside of Nepal that offers greeneries, rivers, villages, farms and beautiful mountain sceneries. Afternoon, we reach Pokhara. Pokhara offers magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhare, five peaks of Annapurna and others. Pokhara is a city of lakes and has numerous beautiful lakes. We can explore the most accessible and beautiful, Fewa Lake during the afternoon -enjoy boating too. Explore, relax and dine by tranquil Lake Fewa. We can even do some shopping during evening hours. Overnight in Pokhara. Overnight in Hotel Middle Path.

Meals: Breakfast
Drive Duration: 6-7 hrs

Day 4Fly to Jomsom & Trek to Kagbeni

After an early breakfast transfer to the Pokhara Airport to take the spectacular flight to Jomsom (headquarter of Mustang region and famous for its apples) which is flying over the gorge of Mt. Dhaulagiri and Mt. Annapurna. From Jomsom, we cross the small suspension bridge and then walk along the Kali Gandaki River bed enjoying the stunning view of Mt. Nilgiri, Tukuche, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. The trail is very windy in the afternoon. After 3 hours walking through flat and barren land, we reach Ekley-bhatti village and then an hour walk takes us to Kagbeni which is situated on the bank of two rivers, Kak Khola and Mustang Khola. Confluence of these two rivers forms Kali Gandagi River. Kagbeni is the main age old Trans-Himalayan salt trade route to Tibet via Upper Mustang area.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude: 2,780m
Trek Duration: 3 -4 hrs
Flight Duration: 3 -4 hrs

Day 5Trek to Chuksang

Today we walk upstream of Kali Gandaki completing the paperwork formalities in police check post. On the way, on the west bank of the river, we can see some caves and Gompa Kang. Most of the monasteries in Upper Mustang are of the Sakyapa sect, but the Gompa Kang is of the Nyingmapa sect. We stop in Tangbe village for lunch, where we come across the first black, white and red Chortens that personify Upper Mustang. The little town is a maze of narrow alleys among white washed houses, fields of buckwheat and barley and apple orchards. From there 2 hours walk bring us to the Chuksang village which is situated at the confluence of the Narshing Khola and the Kali Gandaki. There are three separate parts to this village and some ruined castle walls on the surrounding cliffs. Across the river from Chuksang are some spectacular red eroded cliffs above the mouths of some inaccessible caves.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude: 2,920m
Trek Duration: 5-6 hrs

Day 6Trek to Samar

We head continuing to north and reach the river. A steel bridge spans the river just in front of a tunnel and north from here the Kali Gandaki becomes impassable by foot. The trek now leaves the valley and climbs steeply up a rocky gully to the village of Chele. Watch out for the ferocious Tibetan mastiffs here, which are chained to many of the houses. From Chele we climb to Taklam La Pass (3,624m/11,923 ft) through plateaus and narrow stretches with views of Tilicho Peak, Yakawa Kang and Damodar Danda. Beyond the pass, we descend on a pleasant trail to Samar, situated in a grove of poplar trees. This is a major place to stop for horse and mule caravans.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude: 3,290m
Trek Duration: 4-5 hrs

Day 7Trek to Geling

We climb above Samar to the ridge and then descend into a large gorge past a Chorten before entering another valley filled with juniper trees. We then cross a stream and after climbing to a pass, we descend along a ridge to Syanbochen, a tiny settlement with a few tea shops. Nearby is Rangbyung, a cave containing stalagmites which have formed in the shape of Chorten and one of the holiest places in Mustang. The trail climbs gently from Syanbochen and we enter another huge valley before descending to Geling, with its extensive fields of barley. Like in all settlements of Mustang, the white and ochre-painted houses in Geling are constructed using mud and stones. The roofs are made of twigs, straw and a mixture of mud and pebbles.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude: 3,440m
Trek Duration: 5-6 hrs

Day 8Trek to Ghami

From Geling, the trail climbs gently through fields, up the center of the valley, passing above the settlement of Tama Gun and an imposing Chorten. We then begin a taxing climb across the head of the valley to the Nyi La [3840m]. The descent from the pass is quite gentle and about half an hour further on we come to a trail junction; the right trail is the direct route to Charang, the left trail leads to Ghami. Ghami is a large white-washed village sheltered by overhanging cliffs.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude: 3,460m
Trek Duration: 5-6 hrs

Day 9Trek to Charang and explore Charang

Today’s walk is through perhaps the driest part of Mustang, the loose and dry soil. However, the magnificent views of the countryside, from the gentle contours of the north to the rugged mountains in the east and west, more than compensates for the hard climb. Finally, we come to Charang, a large spread-out village at the top of the Charang Chu canyon. At the eastern end of the village are a huge dzong [fortress] and a red gompa which houses an excellent collection of statues and thangkas.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude: 3,490m
Trek Duration: 3-4 hrs 

Day 10Trek to Lo Manthang

We will spend part of the morning exploring the interesting village of Charang and its large monastery, before setting out for Lo Manthang. We climb gently above the valley to a large isolated Chorten that marks the boundary between Charang and Lo Manthang. Along the trail enjoy the magnificent view of Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna I and Bhrikuti peak. The trail then broadens and eventually we get our first view of the walled city of Lo Manthang. The city has only one entrance so we circumambulate the wall to the gate on the north-east corner.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude: 3,730m
Trek Duration: 5-6 hrs

Day 11In & around Lo Manthang

Today, you are free to explore the fascinating Village of Lo Manthang. The city contains about 150 houses, as well as residences for its many lamas. Visit Namgyal Gompa situated on a hilltop serves as an important monastery of the local community and also as a local court. After then visit Tingkhar, the last main village to the northwest of Lo-Mangthang and stroll back to hotel. Or you may have another option to visit the Tall Champa Lakhang “God house” the red Thubchen Gompa, Chyodi Gompa and the Entrance Hall which are the main attraction of this town. Another attraction is the four- storey king’s palace is an imposing building in the center of the city and is occupied by the current King and Queen. Although his duties are largely ceremonial, the King is respected by the people.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12Trek to Lo Gekar & then to Ghami

We begin our return journey from Lo Manthang, taking the upper highland route. This highland route offers dramatic views of Lo Manthang and the Charang Valley, with snow clad peaks in the background. Passing the settlement of Lo Gekar, we continue our journey on the highland route, crossing alpine meadows before dropping down a steep eroded gully to Dhakmar for lunch where the oldest monastery in Mustang and the oldest Tibetan monastery in the world, the Ghare Gompa also known as Lo Gekar Monastery is located nearby. After lunch, we walk through the pretty valley, climb to a ridge and descend from there back to Ghami.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude:  3,460m
Trek Duration: 5-6 hrs

Day 13Trek to Chele

We will keep our views of Dhaulagiri and Nil Giri mountains and take lower trail via Rachen Gompa from Syanbochen, Rachen Gompa is mysterious gompa grown itself lap of the rocky cave, continue to Samar and then to Chele.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude: 3,050m
Trek Duration: 7 hrs

Day 14Trek to Muktinath

Now we must retrace our route back over the Nyi La to Chuksang for awhile and then can take upper route to Muktinath- holiest temple worship by both Hindus and Buddhist. We may meet many Nepali and Indian devotees even walking on their bare feet.

  : Meals: Breakfast, Lunch,Dinner
Max Altitude: 3,800m
Trek Duration: 6 hrs

Day 15Trek to Jomsom

Today is the final day of our trek. After 5 hours walking along the Kaligandagi River bank with spectacular view of Nilgiri, Tukuche, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, we reach in Jomsom where we end our trek. It’s now time for us to take a nice hot shower. In the evening, we celebrate the success of our long and adventurous trek of Upper Mustang with the Sherpas and porters.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude: 2,760m
Trek Duration: 5 hrs

Day 16Fly back to Pokhara

After morning breakfast we check in the airport to fly back to Pokhara, a 30-min dramatic flight to Pokhara between gorge of the two huge mountains, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. On arrival at Pokhara airport, guide will transfer to the lakeside hotel. We make use of the rest afternoon for discovering the beautiful Pokhara valley leisurely. While we walk along the bank of Fewa Lake, a second biggest lake of Nepal, we cannot stop admiring the state of Fish Tail Mountain reflecting in the lake. We can also take a boat around the Fewa Lake or just can take an hour’s walk to the World Peace Pagoda. Evening time, we spend exploring around the lakeside. Overnight at Pokhara: Hotel Middle Path.

Meals: Breakfast
Flight Duration: 3o mins

Day 17Drive back to Kathmandu

Today, after breakfast, we make a 200 kilometers drive back to Kathmandu. Better to hold on the left pane of the vehicle to enjoy the scenery through the route. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize the photos. You can spend the evening leisurely, perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping and celebrate dinner together with Black Diamond staffs. Overnight in Hotel Encounter Nepal.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 18Final Departure

You are saying good bye to the mountains as your journey in Nepal comes to an end today! We take you to the airport for your flight time. We hope you enjoyed the trek, and are sure you will be back trekking somewhere in the Himalaya again. Approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight a representative from Black Diamond will take you to the airport. On your way home you’ll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

Meals: Breakfast

Included

  • All transfers, sightseeing, airport pick up and drop by private vehicle
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus
  • Domestic flights (Pokhara to Jomsom to Pokhara)
  • 3 nights accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast (Hotel Encounter Nepal- www.encounternepal.com or Hotel Norbu Linka- www.hotelnorbulinka.com) or similar 3-star hotel as per availability.
  • 2 nights accommodation in Pokhara in 3-star hotel with breakfast
  • 12 nights accommodation in Teahouse/lodge
  • Welcome dinner in Nepalese Restaurant with cultural show
  • Farewell dinner
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
  • English Speaking Guide and entrance fees in the monuments during sightseeing
  • An experienced guide, porters (1 porter for 2 people) during trek
  • Salary, insurance, equipments, transportation, food and lodge for the guide and porter
  • Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bag, duffel bag and trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bag are need to be returned after trek)
  • Travel and rescue arrangement
  • All necessary paper work and permits
  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • All government and local taxes.

Excluded

  • International airfare
  • Nepal Visa fee
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Excess baggage charge
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
  • All kind of drinks
  • Extra night accommodation than the scheduled itinerary
  • Tips for guides, porters and driver

Accomodation

You will be accommodated in Hotel Encounter Nepal or a similar category’s hotel in Kathmandu; and basic tea houses/guest houses during the trek when trekking with Black Diamond Expedition. On most treks, the tea houses or lodges serve rooms on a twin-sharing basis with an attached bathroom and hot shower facilities. Single-supplement rooms are served with an extra charge of USD 495. However, it may be difficult to get one in higher points or during peak season trekking. Some of the tea houses in this trekking region in both lower and higher elevations may have shared bathroom and toilet facilities. We always make sure to book you the best possible accommodation during Upper Mustang Trek.

Meals

Your meal plan in Kathmandu includes only breakfast while a three-course meal will be served during the trekking. The tea house where we spend an overnight will serve us a balanced diet for breakfast and dinner whereas lunch is taken at one of the tea houses on the way to our next destination. Black Diamonds has also prepared a special Welcome and Farewell dinner for the guests following a cultural performance.

Best time to travel Upper Mustang

The best times for Upper Mustang are Autumn (September to December) and Spring (March to May). The weather is sunny and warm making the views outstanding in these seasons. The weather conditions are favorable with moderate temperatures, clear skies, and mesmerizing natural views.  However, visits during other seasons also have their advantages, such as fewer crowds and often lower prices compared to peak seasons. The ever-changing weather conditions allow you to appreciate the diverse facets of the landscapes.

Packing List For Upper Mustang Trek

While trekking to the Upper Mustang, it is essential to pack necessary items wisely. You should be sure not to overpack the stuff because you will be trekking through the rough terrain and it will be difficult for yourself to carry all the stuff and trek. So you should be careful and clever to pack only the necessary items. Some of the essential items that you should pack includes:

  • Sun hat & sunglasses
  • Base layer
  • Insulating layer
  • Trekking poles
  • Trekking Boots

For a detailed list of what to pack, check out our comprehensive Nepal packing list.

FAQs

How hard is it to do Upper Mustang Trek?

Upper Mustang trekking level is fairly demanding due to its long duration trek at an high altitude and unpredictable trail conditions. Despite the challenges, the trek can be completed with proper preparation and determination as it does not require any technical mountaineering expertise. It is also important to follow appropriate safety measures while doing the trek. We also can make arrangements for the porters to do heavy lifting for you. Through the trek, we always make sure that you are fit and fine for the next destination. In addition to that, our expert guide will make sure to support, encourage and assist you during Upper Mustang trek.

What is the best time to trek to Upper Mustang?

The months during fall(September-October-November) and spring (March-April-May) are considered as the best time for Upper Mustang trek. In this season the temperature is moderate with clear sky and the dry trails, which gives us ample opportunity to admire the majestic view of mountain ranges with perfect trekking conditions. During the months of winter (December-February) the temperature is extremely cold with heavy snowfall. Even though it doesn’t rain on Upper Mustang, but the way to reach Mustang; during the months of monsoon (June-August) there is heavy rainfall and the trail is slippery with leeches on the way. During the winter and monsoon you should take extra precautions as the unfavorable condition makes it difficult to trek. If you like to trek when there are few tourists, winter and monsoon are the best times and you can get an extra discount on top.

What if I cancel the trip? Do I get a refund?

With our lifetime deposit policy at Black Diamond Expedition, you have the flexibility to transfer your deposit to anyone or any other trip. However, if you still prefer to cancel your booked trip, certain fees will be charged. For more detailed information on our policy, please visit our terms and conditions.

Is my trip guaranteed?

Definitely yes! Our booked trips typically run as scheduled. Unlike  other agencies, you are certain to go on your trek, even if other trekkers cancel their trip.You can book in confidence with us, knowing that our trips are almost always guaranteed to run. The only exceptions are extreme and unfortunate circumstances namely political riots, natural disasters, pandemics, epidemics or severe weather. We are a tailor-made company, so even if your trips have been canceled by other operators and on stress, you’re always welcome to us in order to sort out your trip decisions.

What kind of clothes and gears are needed during Upper Mustang trek?

Upper Mustang trek is a unique experience where you will be trekking on remote places of himalayas staying in lodges or tea houses instead of camping. It is not as cold as during Everest Base Camp Trek. But still it is important to come prepared with the appropriate clothing. You’ll need clothes that can be layered, which makes it easy to add and remove  as per need. For a detailed list of what to pack, check out our comprehensive  packing list.

What kind of accommodations are found on the route to Upper Mustang?

During your long duration trek to Upper Mustang it is important to take the time to relax, and get proper rest after a long day’s hike in order to be ready for the next day’s adventure. So to ensure your comfort, we always book the best lodges available. While booking, we make sure that these accommodations are clean and have comfortable beds with an electric blanket, attached bathroom & modern western toilets (wherever available). We prioritize your safety and comfort, so we always make sure to book you the best possible accommodation during Upper Mustang Trek.

10 Reviews
Sort By:RatingDate

Maya Carter

Group Traveller

I had really enjoyed this trek thanks to the incredible team and especially our guide, Shankar, and porter, Dorjey. I highly recommend this trip.

November 2, 2023

Giorgia Rinaldi

Couple Traveller

My husband and I enjoyed this trip a lot. We have never been to a place like this, and it was totally beyond our expectation. We really enjoyed exploring and trekking to Upper Mustang. Would highly recommend this trip to all.

October 24, 2023

Harrison Patel

Group Traveller

The trip was successfully completed; we had a lot of fun together. I made amazing friends during the trip. Thanks for this amazing adventure.

October 19, 2023

Sophia Cooper

Family Traveller

I had a great time with my family. I really made great memories with my family. Thanks to our guide, Ashish, for making this trip amazing.

September 14, 2023

Gabriel Lefevre

Group Traveller

I went to Upper Mustang, and it felt like I time-traveled. The old city and the way people live there are so different. It’s worth seeing! Thanks to our guide, Nabin, for making this trip memorable and guiding us properly through the journey.

May 10, 2023
12
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