Upper Mustang, often called the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” is one of Nepal’s most mystical and awe-inspiring trekking destinations. Nestled in the rain-shadow area of the Himalayas, this hidden gem offers a unique blend of Tibetan-influenced culture, ancient monasteries, dramatic landscapes, and centuries-old cave dwellings carved into cliffs. The region remained restricted to foreigners until 1992, preserving its rich culture and traditions.

Overview of Upper Mustang Trek

Duration: 12–17 days
Maximum Altitude: 3,840m (Lo Manthang)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Trekking Permit: Restricted area permit required ($500 for the first 10 days)
Best Time to Visit: March–May (Spring), September–November (Autumn)
Starting Point: Jomsom (accessible via flight from Pokhara)
Ending Point: Jomsom
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges

Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek

✅ Ancient Kingdom of Lo Manthang – A walled city with royal palaces and monasteries.
✅ Tibetan Culture & Buddhism – Rich Tibetan-Buddhist heritage, including centuries-old monasteries, prayer wheels, and chortens.
✅ Desert-like Landscapes – Unique barren yet stunning terrain with deep canyons, colorful rock formations, and hidden caves.
✅ Sky Caves of Mustang – Mysterious 2,000-year-old cave dwellings built into cliffs.
✅ Tiji Festival (If Visiting in May) – A 3-day Buddhist festival featuring masked dances and rituals.
✅ Rain-Shadow Region – Unlike most trekking routes in Nepal, Upper Mustang remains dry even during monsoons.

Detailed Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Rest and prepare for the trek.
Obtain necessary permits (TIMS and Restricted Area Permit).

Day 2: Fly/Drive to Pokhara (827m)

Flight (30 min) or drive (6-7 hours) to Pokhara.
Explore Phewa Lake and relax in the lakeside city.

Day 3: Fly to Jomsom (2,720m) & Trek to Kagbeni (2,810m) [3–4 hours]

Scenic flight over the Kali Gandaki Gorge.
Walk along the Kali Gandaki River to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang.

Day 4: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m) [5–6 hours]

Enter the restricted area beyond Kagbeni.
Pass through small settlements and ridges with stunning rock formations.

Day 5: Trek from Chele to Syanboche (3,475m) [6–7 hours]

Cross Taklam La Pass (3,624m) and Dajori La Pass (3,735m).
Witness breathtaking views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Tilicho Peak.

Day 6: Trek from Syanboche to Ghami (3,520m) [5–6 hours]

Pass through Yamda La Pass (3,850m) and stunning barley fields.
Visit the Ghami Monastery and the longest Mani Wall in Mustang.

Day 7: Trek from Ghami to Tsarang (3,620m) [5–6 hours]

Cross the Ghami River and climb towards Tsarang, a village with a 400-year-old monastery.

Day 8: Trek from Tsarang to Lo Manthang (3,840m) [4–5 hours]

Enter the walled Kingdom of Lo Manthang, the heart of Upper Mustang.
Explore the Royal Palace, Thubchen Gompa, and ancient caves.

Day 9: Exploration Day in Lo Manthang

Visit Chhoser Caves, an ancient complex of sky caves.
Explore Jampa Gompa, Thubchen Monastery, and Namgyal Gompa.
Interact with the locals and learn about their Tibetan-influenced lifestyle.

Day 10: Trek from Lo Manthang to Drakmar (3,820m) [6–7 hours]

Take a different route back via Ghar Gompa, one of Mustang’s oldest monasteries.

Day 11: Trek from Drakmar to Ghiling (3,860m) [5–6 hours]

Cross high passes with stunning views of the Mustang Valley.

Day 12: Trek from Ghiling to Chhusang (3,050m) [5–6 hours]

Pass through beautiful cliffs and desert-like landscapes.

Day 13: Trek from Chhusang to Jomsom (2,720m) [5–6 hours]

Celebrate the completion of your Mustang adventure!

Day 14: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara

Take a morning flight back to Pokhara and enjoy a relaxing day.

Day 15: Drive/Fly Back to Kathmandu

Free day in Kathmandu for sightseeing and shopping.

Day 16: Departure

Fly back home with incredible memories of Upper Mustang.

Upper Mustang Trekking Permit & Costs

Since Upper Mustang is a restricted area, special permits are required:

Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – $500 per person for the first 10 days (then $50 per additional day).
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – NPR 3,000 (~$25).
TIMS Card – Not required for Upper Mustang.

💰 Total Estimated Cost: $1,800–$2,500 per person (including permits, accommodation, food, flights, and guide/porter fees).

Best Time to Trek to Upper Mustang

🌸 Spring (March–May): Best weather, blooming wildflowers, and the famous Tiji Festival.
🍂 Autumn (September–November): Clear skies, great views, and pleasant temperatures.
🌧 Monsoon (June–August): Doable since Mustang lies in a rain-shadow region.
❄️ Winter (December–February): Harsh weather, but fewer tourists.

Accommodation & Food in Upper Mustang

🏠 Accommodation: Simple teahouses/lodges with basic amenities.
🍛 Food: Dal Bhat (rice & lentils), Tibetan bread, noodles, momo, and yak-based dishes.

Weather in Upper Mustang Trekking – Best Seasons & Climate Guide

Upper Mustang lies in the rain-shadow region of the Himalayas, meaning it receives very little rainfall compared to other trekking destinations in Nepal. The climate is cold and dry, resembling a high-altitude desert with strong winds, particularly in the afternoon.

Seasonal Weather Breakdown

🌸 Spring (March–May) – Best Season for Trekking

✅ Temperature: Daytime: 10°C – 20°C | Nighttime: -3°C – 5°C
✅ Weather: Clear skies, moderate temperatures, and colorful landscapes.
✅ Highlights: Blooming wildflowers, great visibility, and Tiji Festival (in May).

Why Trek in Spring?

Pleasant temperatures and comfortable trekking conditions.
Best time for photography with stunning Himalayan views.

☀️ Summer/Monsoon (June–August) – Suitable for Trekking

✅ Temperature: Daytime: 15°C – 25°C | Nighttime: 5°C – 10°C
✅ Weather: Warm, with occasional clouds but minimal rain due to Mustang’s rain-shadow location.
✅ Highlights: Green landscapes, fewer crowds, and open trails.

Why Trek in Summer?

Unlike other treks in Nepal, Upper Mustang stays dry even during monsoon.
The region looks greener than usual, offering a different visual experience.

⚠ Challenges: Strong afternoon winds and occasional cloud cover reducing visibility.

🍂 Autumn (September–November) – Peak Season for Trekking

✅ Temperature: Daytime: 10°C – 18°C | Nighttime: -5°C – 5°C
✅ Weather: Crystal-clear skies, stable temperatures, and dry trails.
✅ Highlights: Best time for photography, excellent visibility, and festive atmosphere.

Why Trek in Autumn?

Ideal trekking conditions with comfortable temperatures and stunning mountain views.
One of the busiest seasons, so teahouses can be crowded.

❄️ Winter (December–February) – Harsh Conditions, But Possible

✅ Temperature: Daytime: -5°C – 5°C | Nighttime: -15°C – -5°C
✅ Weather: Extremely cold, especially at night; snow possible in high areas.
✅ Highlights: Fewer tourists, a peaceful atmosphere, and snow-covered Mustang landscapes.

Why Trek in Winter?

If you love solitude, this is the best time to avoid crowds.
The landscape looks magical under snow, especially in Lo Manthang.

⚠ Challenges:

Many teahouses close due to extreme cold.
Heavy snowfall may block passes and trails.

Key Weather Challenges in Upper Mustang

💨 Strong Afternoon Winds: Winds pick up in the afternoon, making trekking in the morning more comfortable.
❄️ Cold Nights: Even in summer, nights can be chilly due to the high altitude.
🌵 Dry Air & Dust: The arid environment means dry air, so wearing a scarf or mask can help.
🛑 Altitude Sickness: While Upper Mustang isn’t extremely high, some trekkers may feel mild symptoms.

Best Time to Trek Based on Weather

Season	Temperature (Day/Night)	Weather Conditions	Best For
Spring (March–May)	10°C to 20°C / -3°C to 5°C	Clear skies, mild weather	Best trekking season, Tiji Festival
Summer (June–August)	15°C to 25°C / 5°C to 10°C	Warm, minimal rain	Good for avoiding crowds
Autumn (Sept–Nov)	10°C to 18°C / -5°C to 5°C	Perfect weather, clear skies	Peak trekking season
Winter (Dec–Feb)	-5°C to 5°C / -15°C to -5°C	Harsh cold, snow	Only for experienced trekkers

Lo Manthang – The Walled Kingdom 🏯

🌍 Elevation: 3,840m
⭐ Highlights:
✅ The Royal Palace of Mustang, home to the last king of Mustang.
✅ Thubchen Monastery – A 15th-century monastery with stunning murals.
✅ Jampa Gompa (God House) – The oldest monastery, featuring a huge Buddha statue.
✅ Namgyal Monastery – A religious and judicial center of Lo Manthang.

🚶 Why Visit?
Lo Manthang is the cultural heart of Mustang, where Tibetan-influenced traditions are still alive. Exploring this medieval city feels like stepping back in time.

Sky Caves of Chhoser – 2,000-Year-Old Cave Dwellings 🏔

🌍 Location: Near Lo Manthang
⭐ Highlights:
✅ Mysterious man-made caves carved into cliffs.
✅ Ancient Buddhist paintings and relics inside.
✅ Believed to have been used for meditation, burial sites, and living quarters.

🚶 Why Visit?
These caves hold secrets of ancient Mustang civilizations and are among the most unique archaeological sites in the world.

Tiji Festival – A Sacred Celebration 🎭

🌍 Location: Lo Manthang (Celebrated in May)
⭐ Highlights:
✅ A 3-day festival symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
✅ Colorful masked dances performed by monks.
✅ Rich Buddhist rituals that attract global travelers.

🚶 Why Visit?
If you trek in May, witnessing Tiji Festival is a once-in-a-lifetime experience showcasing Mustang’s cultural vibrancy.

Ghar Gompa – The Oldest Monastery in Mustang 🏯

🌍 Elevation: 3,930m (Between Lo Manthang & Drakmar)
⭐ Highlights:
✅ Built in the 8th century by Guru Rinpoche.
✅ Believed to grant wishes to visitors.
✅ Beautiful Tibetan murals and prayer wheels.

🚶 Why Visit?
This monastery is an important pilgrimage site and offers breathtaking views of the Mustang Valley.

Dhakmar – The Red Cliff Village ⛰

🌍 Elevation: 3,820m
⭐ Highlights:
✅ Dramatic red cliffs caused by centuries of wind erosion.
✅ Home to ancient sky caves and sacred monasteries.
✅ Peaceful village with stunning landscapes.

🚶 Why Visit?
The red cliffs of Dhakmar are one of the most photogenic places in Upper Mustang.

Tsarang – The Land of Monasteries 🏡

🌍 Elevation: 3,620m
⭐ Highlights:
✅ Tsarang Monastery, built in the 14th century.
✅ The Ancient Library containing Buddhist scriptures.
✅ Mani Walls & Chortens – The longest Mani wall in Mustang.

🚶 Why Visit?
Tsarang is a spiritual and historical hub, with some of Mustang’s most well-preserved monasteries.

Kagbeni – Gateway to Upper Mustang 🚪

🌍 Elevation: 2,810m
⭐ Highlights:
✅ The Kag Chode Monastery, a sacred Buddhist site.
✅ Stunning views of the Kali Gandaki River.
✅ Famous for Shaligram Fossils (sacred black stones).

🚶 Why Visit?
Kagbeni is the entry point to Upper Mustang and an ancient trade hub between Tibet and Nepal.

Jhong Cave – A Hidden Treasure 🏞

🌍 Location: Near Chhoser
⭐ Highlights:
✅ A multi-story cave complex with more than 40 rooms.
✅ Thought to be 2,500 years old.
✅ Amazing views of the Mustang landscape.

🚶 Why Visit?
If you love adventure, Jhong Cave is a must-visit archaeological wonder.

Kali Gandaki Gorge – The Deepest Gorge in the World 🌊

🌍 Location: Between Annapurna & Dhaulagiri ranges
⭐ Highlights:
✅ Deepest gorge (5,571m) in the world.
✅ Home to Shaligram Fossils, sacred to Hindus.
✅ Stunning views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna.

🚶 Why Visit?
The dramatic landscapes and rich history make this gorge a fascinating stop on your trek.

Final Thoughts – What Makes Upper Mustang Special?

Upper Mustang is not just a trek—it’s an immersion into an ancient world of mystical landscapes, Tibetan Buddhist traditions, and stunning architecture. If you love history, adventure, and breathtaking scenery, this is the perfect trek for you!

📌 Which place in Upper Mustang are you most excited to visit? Let me know if you need help planning your trip! 😊

Essential Packing List

Clothing:

✅ Warm down jacket
✅ Thermal layers
✅ Trekking pants & waterproof jacket
✅ Comfortable trekking boots
✅ Hat, gloves, and sunglasses

Gear:

✅ Sleeping bag (-10°C)
✅ Trekking poles
✅ Headlamp
✅ Water purification tablets
✅ First aid kit

Documents & Money:

✅ Passport and permits
✅ Cash (ATMs unavailable in Mustang)

Tips for a Successful Upper Mustang Trek

✔ Hire a licensed guide (mandatory for restricted areas).
✔ Carry enough cash as ATMs are rare.
✔ Walk at a slow pace to prevent altitude sickness.
✔ Respect local culture – Mustang has strong Buddhist traditions.
✔ Stay hydrated and eat well for energy.

Conclusion

The Upper Mustang Trek is an unforgettable journey through a mystical kingdom filled with ancient monasteries, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant Tibetan culture. Unlike any other trek in Nepal, Upper Mustang offers a glimpse into a hidden world untouched by modernization. If you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, this trek is a must!

Would you like help planning your trek?

Ultimate Guide to Upper Mustang Trekking – A Journey to the Forbidden Kingdom