Welcome to Kathmandu! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Family Holidays Nepal will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After settling in, take some time to relax and adjust to the new time zone. Depending on your arrival time, you might enjoy a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of Thamel or visit a local café. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Today is dedicated to preparing for your trek. After a hearty breakfast, you will undertake on a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa, soaking in the rich cultural and historical heritage of the city. In the afternoon, you’ll meet with your trek leader to finalize your trekking gear and receive a detailed briefing about the journey ahead. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
In the morning, Scenic drive to Pokhara, a picturesque lakeside city known for its stunning natural beauty. The journey takes you through lush green hills and charming villages. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel and take some time to relax. Enjoy a leisurely walk around Phewa Lake or visit the nearby World Peace Pagoda for panoramic views. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Take a morning flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, a small town nestled in the Kali Gandaki Valley. The flight offers spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After landing, start your trek towards Kagbeni, a traditional village located on the banks of the Kali Gandaki River. The trek takes you through arid landscapes and ancient Tibetan-style villages. Upon arrival in Kagbeni, explore the village and its surrounding areas. Overnight stay in Kagbeni.
Today's trek takes you through the dramatic landscape of Upper Mustang. Starting from Kagbeni, you’ll walk through a barren, yet beautiful terrain characterized by deep canyons and towering cliffs. The trail leads you to Chussang, a small village with its own unique charm. Enjoy the serene environment and the traditional lifestyle of the locals. Overnight stay in Chussang.
The journey continues as you trek towards Samar. As you ascend, the landscape becomes more rugged and the altitude increases. You'll cross various picturesque villages and encounter the local Mustang people, who maintain their traditional ways of life. The trek to Samar offers incredible views and a chance to experience the high-altitude desert environment. Overnight stay in Samar.
Today's trek leads you to Ghiling, a significant village along the trail. The route takes you over several passes and through beautiful valleys, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks and the Tibetan plateau. Ghiling is known for its impressive views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. Upon arrival, explore the village and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Overnight stay in Ghiling.
Trek to Tsarang, a village known for its ancient Tibetan culture and impressive monastery. The trail offers a mix of high-altitude desert terrain and lush valleys. Tsarang is home to the Tsarang Monastery, which is worth visiting to experience its unique architecture and religious significance. Overnight stay in Tsarang.
Today, you’ll trek to Lo Manthang, the capital of the Upper Mustang region. The journey takes you through a fascinating landscape of wind-eroded rock formations and ancient caves. Lo Manthang, with its well-preserved Tibetan architecture and cultural heritage, is a highlight of the trek. Explore the historic city and its monasteries, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Overnight stay in Lo Manthang.
Spend a day exploring Lo Manthang at your leisure. You can visit the King's Palace, the local monasteries, and the ancient cave dwellings in the area. This rest day allows you to acclimatize to the altitude and immerse yourself in the unique culture of Upper Mustang. Take the opportunity to interact with the locals and experience their traditional lifestyle. Overnight stay in Lo Manthang.
Today’s trek leads you to Drakmar, a small village known for its distinctive red rock formations and traditional architecture. The route offers stunning views and a chance to see the unique geological features of the Mustang region. Upon arrival in Drakmar, take some time to explore and appreciate the tranquil surroundings. Overnight stay in Drakmar.
Retrace your steps back to Ghiling, passing through the same high-altitude landscapes you encountered earlier. The return journey offers a different perspective of the region’s natural beauty. Enjoy the familiar sights and the opportunity to reflect on your adventure so far. Overnight stay in Ghiling.
Continue your trek back to Chusang, following the same route through the stunning Mustang terrain. This part of the journey allows you to experience the changing landscapes and revisit the charming village of Chusang. Enjoy the peaceful environment and the warmth of the local hospitality. Overnight stay in Chusang.
The final leg of your trek brings you back to Jomsom. As you descend, enjoy the shifting scenery and the gradual return to lower altitudes. Upon reaching Jomsom, you’ll have time to relax and celebrate the completion of your trek. Overnight stay in Jomsom.
Take a morning flight from Jomsom back to Pokhara. Enjoy the stunning aerial views of the Himalayan range as you fly over the rugged terrain. Once in Pokhara, you’ll have the rest of the day to unwind and reflect on your journey. Consider exploring more of Pokhara or simply relaxing by the lake. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
In the morning, drive back to Kathmandu, retracing your route through the scenic countryside. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to relax or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs. Reflect on your trekking experience and enjoy your final evening in Nepal. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Farewell to Nepal and your unforgettable adventure with Family Holidays Nepal. We hope you carry with you wonderful memories and experiences from your trek in the Upper Mustang.
Miscellaneous:
The Upper Mustang Trek is an adventurous trekking route that explores the semi-autonomous region of Mustang, often referred to as "The Last Forbidden Kingdom" due to its historical isolation and unique cultural heritage. It offers stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
The ideal time to trek Upper Mustang is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer the most stable weather conditions, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures. Winter and summer are generally less favorable due to heavy snowfall or rain.
Yes, trekking in Upper Mustang requires special permits. You will need a restricted area permit and a trekking permit, both of which must be arranged through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. The restricted area permit is necessary due to the region’s special cultural and environmental status.
The trek is considered moderately challenging. It involves high-altitude trekking with altitudes reaching up to 4,200 meters (13,800 feet). Trekkers should have a good level of physical fitness and prior trekking experience to handle the demands of high-altitude trekking.
Accommodations range from basic teahouses to guesthouses in the region. While amenities may be limited compared to more popular trekking routes, the lodging is generally clean and comfortable, providing an authentic experience.
Essential items include sturdy trekking boots, layered clothing for varying weather conditions, a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, a good-quality rain jacket, and sun protection such as sunglasses and sunscreen. It's also important to carry sufficient water purification methods and snacks for the trek.