The Upper Mustang Valley Trek of 16 days is one of the most unique and rewarding trekking journeys in Nepal. To the trans-Himalayan region behind the majestic mountain ranges of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri in the rain shadow area, get ready to explore a place often also referred to as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom” that once had its own king near the Tibetan border in north-central Nepal.
Unlike other popular high Himalayan treks in the country, such as the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and the Langtang Valley Trek, which are mostly associated with lush forests and green hills, the Upper Mustang Trek itinerary includes entering the stark, windswept plateau characterized by red cliffs, deep canyons, and dramatic rock formations resulting from minimal monsoon rainfall.
The journey officially begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a flight to Jomsom, after which you will enter the region renowned for its hidden Buddhist world, with the main highlight being a visit to and exploration of Lo Manthang, which was once the vibrant capital city of the kingdom of Lo. All surrounded by snow-capped peaks, so worry not; this Upper Mustang Trek is rewarding for mountain enthusiasts as well.
Bookings are now open for 2026 and 2027. While our Upper Mustang Trekking Cost includes the provision of daily meals, lodging, transportation, and the essential special restricted area permit (RAP) and licensed guide, you get to save both time and energy, and fully immerse yourself in the journey. While the exact Upper Mustang Trek cost may vary depending on customization, it is reasonable. Contact us now and reserve your seat.
What to expect during the Upper Mustang Valley Hike?
Including the crossing of several high mountain passes, reaching the highest point at Nyi La Pass located at an elevation of around 4,010m above sea level, expect a dramatic diversity in landscape, with higher ones resembling Tibetan plateaus, which further seem like deserts with almost no vegetation. The Upper Mustang Trek offers you both adventure with a sense of achievement and exposure to a unique culture and natural beauty.
For several days, you will be trekking in the region that was once completely isolated from the outer world. Wind-carved cliffs, deep canyons, vast open skies, and sky caves framed by the sky-perching Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri—there are hardly any dull moments for individuals with a good level of physical fitness and who are flexible enough to adapt to basic living standards, whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-timer.
Where is the Upper Mustang Valley in Nepal?
The Upper Mustang Trekking route is one of the least trodden trek trails in one of the highly restricted areas in the north-central part of the country. Within Gandaki province, which also borders China (Tibet Autonomous Region), is a part of the larger Mustang District, which is further protected within the Annapurna Conservation Area, the largest conservation area of Nepal. Through the Kali Gandaki gorge, you are to experience one of the most iconic landscapes.
Inside the national park area, therefore, you also have high chances of encountering a wide range of flora and fauna, including rare Himalayan species such as the red panda, Himalayan musk deer, Himalayan tahr, Tibetan wolf, and the majestic snow leopard. The restricted area is regarded as such to preserve the region's fragile Himalayan system and culture; therefore, you need a special permit for trekking to Upper Mustang that we can arrange for you.
How are the mountain passes in Mustang?
While the entire trip to Upper Mustang is considered a mid-altitude Himalayan trek in Nepal, you do cross several mountain passes around 8-10, such as Yamda La Pass, Nyi La Pass, Lo La Pass, Charang La Pass, and others. In comparison to other portions of the Upper Mustang Valley Trek, these are both the most challenging and rewarding sections, with both the most stunning views and the demand for a good level of physical fitness.
Often, these are passes featuring loose gravel, sandy slopes, and rocky ridgelines, further potentially snowy in winter and with strong afternoon winds; therefore, making it up here is a significant achievement on the Upper Mustang Valley Trekking route. With more open views of valleys and also those of the surrounding mountain ranges, these parts are hence also equally visually stunning and reward you immensely.
What makes Lo Manthang special in the Mustang Region?
Aside from being one of the typical settlements of the Upper Mustang Valley, like Jomsom, Kagbeni, Chele, Syanbochen, Ghami, and Tsarang, all offering an insight into the traditional lifestyles of locals still highly intact in social harmony and Tibetan Buddhism, Lo Manthang, in addition, was also once the thriving capital city of Upper Mustang that still holds the remnants of royal palaces where the king used to reside with his family.
Situated at an elevation of around 3,840 m above sea level, the historic walled capital city of the former kingdom of Mustang, Lo Manthang is home to significant Tibetan Buddhist heritages such as monasteries like Jampa, Thubchen, and Chode, where masked dances, rituals, and festivals like Tiji are held. These attract a larger number of visitors in the Upper Mustang, but as only a few RAP are allowed, only limited numbers get to experience it.
Why is the Upper Mustang Trek itinerary of 16 days considered the best?
The 16 days Itinerary for trekking to Upper Mustang allows gradual ascents and is handpicked by professional mountaineers, licensed and trained guides from I Trek Himalayan to ensure a stress free trekking journey. Slowly progressing through the villages and staying at the local teahouses such as Kagebeni, Chele, Syanbochen, Ghami, Tsarang, and finally to Lo Manthang. A buffer day here for is proper acclimatization.
The following day, you will begin the hike back to the Kathmandu Valley; however, instead of retracing the previous route, you will take the less-traveled Upper Mustang Valley Trek Trail, passing through Drakmar, Ghiling, Chhuksang, and finally Jomsom to catch an early morning flight to Pokhara. Like this 16-day Upper Mustang Valley Trek itinerary, it is further customizable and hence is considered the best, including for the years 2026 and 2027. Contact us and book now!