Explore Upper Mustang by Drive

Upper Mustang 16 Days

Trip Highlights

  • Upper Mustang is popularly known as Forbidden Kingdom of Lo with stunning walled city Lo-manthang
  • Amazing cold desert landscape and stratified rock formation valley behind the Annapurna & Mukti Himalayas range.
  • Observe the 700 year’s old gompa in Lomanthang and Tsarang –Gel up Sect 400 years old & 700 year's old Sijha Jhong cave in Chhoser village.
  • World's first Buddhist Gompa - Ghar gompa which was built during Princess Bhrikuti Devi. (Sanskrit: भृकुटी) of Licchavi and an incarnation of Tara.
  • Also covering place to visit in Lower mustang including Marpah, Jomsom, Kagbeni & Muktinath.

Trip Facts

Group size 2-6 Pax
Duration 16 Days
Trip Mode Hotel/ Lodge
Level of difficulty Moderate
Max. Altitude: 4660m/15284ft.

Overview

Embark on a mesmerizing journey to Nepal's western-northern region, venturing into the mystical land of Upper Mustang, often dubbed the Forbidden Kingdom. Prepare to be enchanted by the awe-inspiring landscapes and rich cultural tapestry that await you.

Your adventure begins amidst the towering Himalayas, as you traverse behind their majestic peaks to reach the Mustang district. Here, you'll encounter the stunning walled city of Lo-Manthang Palace, a testament to the region's ancient heritage and grandeur. Marvel at its intricate architecture and immerse yourself in the history that permeates its walls.

As you venture further, you'll discover the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayan high valley, where towering peaks and rugged terrain create a landscape unlike any other. Traverse through the cold desert, where the stark beauty of the barren landscape is juxtaposed against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas.

Explore the village of Tsarang, home to a Gelup Sect monastery that has stood for over 400 years. Delve into the spiritual traditions of the region as you soak in the serene atmosphere of this ancient village.

Continue your journey to Chhoser village, where you'll witness firsthand the vibrant culture and traditions of the local people. Explore its narrow streets and ancient buildings, gaining insight into the daily lives of the villagers.

In the Chhusang Valley, marvel at the natural wonder of Jhong Cave and its intricate rock formations. Discover the rich history hidden within its walls as you explore this ancient dwelling.

Throughout your journey, immerse yourself in the ethnic culture and traditions of the Mustang region, engaging with local communities and learning about their way of life. From the charming village of Kagbeni to the bustling town of Jomsom, every step of your adventure will reveal new wonders and experiences.

Prepare to be captivated by the beauty and magic of Upper Mustang as you embark on this unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas.

Itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, We're grateful for the warm welcome extended by our official. We will take you to the hotel in our private tourist vehicle. Pre-trip meeting will be done and you will meet with your trip guide. Make sure to confirm your queries about trekking in the mountains.

Location: Kathmandu
Meal: Not included
Accommodation: Hotel

Your trekking staff will ensure a smooth transition for you from the hotel to the tourist bus station, beginning your journey to Pokhara at around 7:30 am. Pokhara, often hailed as the gateway to the Annapurna region, is a picturesque valley nestled beside the tranquil Phewa Lake.

 

Renowned for its breathtaking views, Pokhara offers panoramic vistas of iconic Himalayan peaks like Annapurna and Machapuchare to the north, Dhaulagiri to the west, and Lamjung Himal and Manaslu to the east.

 

Compared to the bustling energy of Kathmandu, Pokhara is smaller and more serene, making it an ideal starting point for your Annapurna Base Camp (Annapurna Santuary) trekking adventure. With its tranquil setting and proximity to the majestic Himalayas, Pokhara sets the stage for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Annapurna region.

 

 

Location: Pokhara
Duration: 6 hours
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive to Lete Village, taking in the sights along the way. Our journey offers glimpses of highest suspension bridge, Galeshwor temple situated on the top great fossel, Hot spring Rupse Falls, and the awe-inspiring Kaligandaki Gorge. As we pass through Rocky hills & Ghasa Village, we're treated to magnificent views of towering peaks such as Mt. Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche, and Annapurna.

 

In the evening, we reach the charming village of Lete, where we'll settle in for dinner and an overnight stay at a comfortable hotel. This day's journey promises to be filled with spectacular landscapes and unforgettable experiences.

 

 

Location: Lete village
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge

After breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive and sightseeing tour of various villages, including Tukche, Marpha, Jomsom, Dhumba village with its charming tiny lake, Kagbeni, and Ranipauwa. Our vehicle will transport us roadside, and we'll explore each village on foot, immersing ourselves in their unique cultures and landscapes.

 

Throughout the journey, we'll be treated to stunning views of Mt. Nilgiri, Tilicho Peak, Mt. Dhaulagiri, and Tukuche Peak, along with the breathtaking scenery of the cold desert surroundings. Compared to yesterday's drive, today's journey promises to be more comfortable and enjoyable.

 

Upon reaching the Muktinath vehicle station, we'll embark on a 30-minute hike to visit the sacred Muktinath temple and its surroundings. After offering worship to Lord Vishnu and Jwalamai, we'll return to our hotel for lunch.

 

Following lunch, we'll drive to Kagbeni, a historical village known for its fortified layout, characterized by houses built within a common rectangular outer wall with just three small entrance doors. From there, we'll continue our drive to the gateway of Upper Mustang, the Chhusang Valley, where we'll have the opportunity to delve deeper into the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

 

 

Location: Lo-Manthang
Duration: 4-5 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

Today, we set out on a picturesque drive to Syanbochen for explore to Chungsi Cave monastery. Our journey takes us through many enchanting villages, each offering glimpses into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

We pass through Chele village, crossing Taklam La and Dajong La, before continuing to Samar, where we traverse Bhena La, Yamda La (4010m), The scenic drive takes us through Syangbochen. 

 

 

Note! Chungsi Cave, also known as Ranchung Cave, stands as a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site nestled along the Upper Mustang Trekking route, between Samar and Syangbochen village. This natural cave-monastery holds deep spiritual importance, drawing pilgrims and travelers alike to its sacred grounds. Unlike many man-made structures in the area, Chungsi Cave is a remarkable natural formation, believed to have been shaped by the elements over time. Its origins are steeped in legend and reverence, with locals attributing its creation to divine forces. As visitors approach Chungsi Cave, they are greeted by its awe-inspiring presence, with entrances adorned by symbols and inscriptions attributed to "GURU GINGPOCHE," further adding to its mystique. For pilgrims and trekkers on the Upper Mustang route, a visit to Chungsi Cave offers not only a chance to witness its natural beauty but also an opportunity for spiritual reflection and connection with the ancient traditions of Buddhism in the region. As they explore its cavernous depths and soak in the tranquil atmosphere, they are reminded of the enduring spiritual legacy that permeates the Mustang landscape.
Location: Syangbochen
Duration: 4 hour
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

Today marks a special journey as we set out to explore the enchanting villages of Geiling, Ghami, and Dhakmar, nestled amidst the rugged beauty of Upper Mustang. Our adventure begins with a scenic drive, crossing the Syangboche La pass, where we're treated to panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. As we traverse through Ghiling, we ascend Ny La at 4020 meters, and then continue on to Ghami, crossing over Ghami La at 3765 meters.

 

Upon arriving at Geiling, we pause to enjoy a delicious lunch amidst the breathtaking surroundings, rejuvenating ourselves for the rest of the day's exploration. After lunch, we delve into the picturesque village of Ghami, where ancient Mane walls and traditional architecture offer glimpses into the region's rich cultural heritage.

 

In the evening, we settle into our lodge in Ghami, surrounded by the tranquility of the Mustang landscape. As we reflect on the day's adventures, we anticipate the discoveries that await us in Dhakmar village tomorrow, eager to continue our journey through this captivating corner of Nepal.

Location: Ghami Village.
Duration: 2 hours.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

After breakfast, we start our trek on a pleasant and easy road which we’ll walk for about 1.5 hours up to Charang (3,560m). Then after crossing Ghaymi Khola, the trail climbs to a plateau and passes beside a very long Mani wall (Mantra inscribed stone walls) which heads east to Tsarang. Before going to Tasarng we will visit to Dhakmar village (3820m) One of the most fascinating features of Dhakmar village is its unique topography, which is dominated by red cliffs and rocks. The landscape of Dhakmar is characterized by towering red cliffs and rocky formations, which create a striking contrast against the blue sky. The red color of the cliffs is due to the presence of iron oxide in the soil, which gives the rocks their distinctive hue.

After about 11 kilometers up and down the road get us to the Lodge in Charang, where we will stay overnight. We will enjoy exploring around the ancient village for the rest of the day. You may go to Ghar Gumpa via Mui La (4,170m) from Dhakmar skip Charang Village.

Location: Tsarang
Duration: 2-5 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge

The drive leads us to Lo-Mangthang with a majestic view of Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna I, and Bhrikuti. The landscape scenery is absolutely fascinating. At first, the drive descends to Tsarang Chu Canyon and then climbs steeply up after crossing the river. Then the trail further ascends gently to the windy pass of Lo La (3,950m), from where you can see the Lo-Mangthang valley (3,810m) while views of the walled city appear magnificently amongst its hills. All of this takes place right next to the Tibetan border. We will stay overnight at a local hotel. The rest of the time can be spent exploring the surrounding areas which are almost identical to Tibet and Tibetan culture.

 

 

Location: Lomanthang
Duration: 1 hours.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge.

Today is your special day to explore around Lo-Mangthan. You first explore the surrounding Namgyal Gomba monastery situated on a hilltop, which serves as an important monastery of the local community and also as a local court. After visiting Namgyal Gompa (3,910m) continue the hike to Tingkhar (4,025m), which is a village of around 40 houses, the last main village to the northwest of Lo-Mangthang. After finishing your visit stroll back to the hotel. You have another option to visit the Chamjung and Lhaktung Gumba, the red Thugchen monastery, Chyodi Gomba are in the entrance hall which are the main attractions of Lo Mangthang. Besides this, you may visit the four-story building of the Raja's Darbar (Royal Place) as well as the surrounding panoramic views of the Himalaya, where the Lo Mangthang Ex: King -Jigme Prabal Bista (25th King of the Upper Mustang Kingdom) offers you Tibetan tea as a sigh of his hospitality.

 

Lo Manthang is known as a walled city also, it is believed to be built in 1380 AD by the first King of Lo ‘Ame Pal’. The wall which is 2422 feet (725m) long and 26 feet (about 8 m) high have a series of 14 towers along its border. The towers rise 40 feet (12m) high, 6 feet (2m) wide at the base, and 3 feet (1m) wide at the top. During the regimes of the Mustang King, the towers were guarded by armed guards to defend the town from enemies. This day you may visit the Namgyal ‘The Monastery of Victory’, Tinker ‘summer palace of Mustangs King’, Choser Valley ‘famous for cave culture’ and Luri Gumba ‘built inside the rock’ are other major attractions of Upper Mustang. Choser Cave is a spectacular multi-storied cave building with 42 rooms, which is an example of ancient human civilization and their tradition and to get in cave Gumba it takes about 1 ½ to 2-hour walk away from Lo Manthang or you have option pony trek or hire a motorbike or any Vehicles for 45 minutes. There are other many hidden treasures around the Chooser Village where you may explore as well if not too tired. 

 

Location: Lomanthang
Duration: 4-5 hours.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge.

Today's adventure drive on the Upper Mustang Local bumpy dirt track to Tsarang village. From Tsarang descend & take us bank of river dirt track to Dhi village. and Surkhang vilalge cross a small river, and ascend to Yara village, known for its caves on stone walls.

 

Today, we explore  in Yara to explore the renowned Luri Gompa, also known as Luri Cave. Our journey begins with a gradual ascent along a scenic trail that meanders alongside a river. Dating back to the 14th century, Luri Gompa holds significant religious importance in Tibetan Buddhism and is adorned with some of the oldest and most exquisite Buddhist mural paintings in the Mustang Region. Perched atop a 100-meter-high cliff, the Gompa, covered in a striking red wash, stands as a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage and spiritual legacy.

Location: Yara/Ghara village
Duration: 3-4 hours.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

After breakfast, we bid farewell to Yara vilalge and embark on our journey back to Marpha village, situated at an elevation of 2670 meters. Along the way, we make several stops for sightseeing, enriching our experience of the region.

Our first stop is at Tsarang Monastery, a serene and ancient monastery steeped in history and spiritual significance. Here, we take the time to explore the monastery grounds and soak in the peaceful ambiance.

As we arrive back in Marpha, we reflect on the memories and experiences of our journey, grateful for the opportunity to explore the wonders of the Mustang region. We settle in for the evening, enjoying a well-deserved rest and dinner in the comfort of our hotel.

Location: Marpha Village
Duration: 5 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge

Today marks the conclusion of our adventure drive tour of Upper Mustang as we make our way back to Pokhara. Departing from Marpha, we bid farewell to the majestic landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the region.

 

As we journey back to Pokhara, we reflect on the memories and experiences gained during our time in Upper Mustang. From the ancient villages and monasteries to the rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas, each moment has been filled with wonder and discovery.

 

As we approach Pokhara, we carry with us the cherished memories of our adventure in Upper Mustang, knowing that the beauty and spirit of this mystical land will stay with us long after our journey has ended.

Location: Pokhara
Duration: 6 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel

As we embark on our journey back to Kathmandu in the morning, we reminisce about the unforgettable experiences and cherished moments we've shared during our adventure in Upper Mustang. The scenic drive back provides one last opportunity to soak in the beauty of the Nepalese countryside before we return to the bustling city.

 

In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner at a fine restaurant in Kathmandu. This special occasion is a chance for us to express our gratitude to our guides, whose expertise and companionship have enriched our journey, as well as to the office staff whose behind-the-scenes efforts ensured the smooth execution of our trip.

 

Amidst delicious food and warm camaraderie, we reflect on the memories we've created together and the bonds forged during our time in Nepal. As we raise our glasses to toast to new adventures and lifelong friendships, we carry with us the spirit of exploration and the joy of shared experiences.

Location: Kathmandu
Duration: 6 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & farewell dinner
Accommodation: Hotel

It’s the end of our exciting journey in the Upper mustang (Annapurna region) Today we conclude our 14 days explore upper mustang by drive tour. One of our airport representatives will accompany you to the International Airport for your flight back home.

 

We bid you farewell, and hoping you’ll travel to Nepal again.

Meal: Breakfast

Trip Information

What's Include?

  • Twin/Double sharing accommodation at Standard Hotel in Kathmandu for 2 nights with Breakfast.
  • Twin/Double sharing accommodation at Standard hotel in Pokhara for 2 nights with Breakfast.
  • Twin sharing accommodation at clean and cozy Hotel/Lodge during Mustang for 5 nights
  • All meals (B, L & D) on OPEN/CHOICE Menu whilst on the trek with tea & coffee.
  • Whole trip surface transportation by Private 4WD Jeep.
  • Annapurna Conservation area & TIMS Permits.
  • Experienced license holder leader guide from Kathmandu.
  • All required permits for trek (TIMS Card and Annapurna Conservation area.) & Special Restricted Upper mustang permit ($500/pp)
  • Comprehensive first aid kit with high altitude medicines.
  • Comprehensive first aid kit with high altitude medicines.
  • Staff insurance & allowances.
  • All government taxes

What's Exclude?

  • Personal interest expense items & tips.
  • Meals (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • International flight fare and airport departure tax
  • Travel insurance along with high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
  • Nepal Entry Visa (Visa can be acquired easily after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a fee of USD 50 for 30 days visa and USD 125 for 90 days visa)
  • In the case of strike & natural calamities expenses for extra days/nights beside the trip.

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