Overview
Upper Mustang is Nepal's last forbidden kingdom—a remote Tibetan enclave that remained closed to outsiders until 1992. This restricted-area trek takes you through a surreal landscape of red, orange, and brown eroded cliffs, ancient cave dwellings, and medieval walled cities. The capital, Lo Manthang, is a living museum of Tibetan Buddhist culture with monasteries dating back to the 14th century. Unlike other Nepal treks, Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, making it accessible even during monsoon season.
Duration
12-16 Days
Distance
150 km
Max Altitude
3,840m
Best Season
Mar-Nov (including monsoon)
Highlights
- Explore Nepal's last forbidden kingdom
- Medieval walled city of Lo Manthang
- Surreal eroded cliff landscapes
- Ancient cave dwellings and monasteries
- Accessible during monsoon season
- Authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture
Itinerary
Fly to Pokhara, Drive to Jomsom
Flight to Pokhara then drive through Kali Gandaki Gorge.
Trek to Kagbeni
Short trek to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang.
Trek to Chele
Trek through the dramatic Kali Gandaki gorge.
Trek to Samar
Continue through the desert landscape.
Trek to Ghami
Trek through dramatic terrain. Ghami has a long mani wall.
Trek to Tsarang
Trek to Tsarang, with its red palace and ancient monastery.
Trek to Lo Manthang
Arrive at the walled city of Lo Manthang.
Explore Lo Manthang
Explore the medieval city. Visit monasteries and the royal palace.
Excursion to Chhoser Caves
Day trip to the ancient cave dwellings of Chhoser.
Trek to Ghami
Begin return journey via alternate route.
Trek to Samar
Continue descent through dramatic terrain.
Trek to Kagbeni
Return to Kagbeni and exit restricted area.
Trek to Jomsom
Short trek back to Jomsom.
Fly to Pokhara
Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.
Safety Information
Restricted area requiring special permits and minimum group size (2+). The trail is well-established but remote. Dry climate with extreme temperatures.
Nearest Hospital
Kathmandu (flight)
Emergency Contacts
- ACAP Office: +977-61-462161
Packing List
Documents
- Passport
- Upper Mustang RAP ($500)
- ACAP Permit
- TIMS Card
- Travel Insurance
Clothing
- Layering system
- Down jacket
- Fleece
- Wind jacket
- Trekking pants
- Warm hat and gloves
- Sun hat
Footwear
- Hiking boots
- Warm socks (3 pairs)
- Camp shoes
Equipment
- Sleeping bag (-10°C)
- Daypack (35L)
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp
- Water bottles (2L)
- Sunglasses
- Sun protection
Hygiene & Meds
- Sunscreen SPF 50
- Lip balm
- First aid kit
- Toilet paper
- Hand sanitizer
- Dust mask
Weather by Month
| Month | High | Low | Rainfall | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 6°C | -10°C | Low | Good |
| Feb | 8°C | -8°C | Low | Good |
| Mar | 12°C | -4°C | Low | Best |
| Apr | 16°C | 0°C | Low | Best |
| May | 18°C | 4°C | Low | Best |
| Jun | 20°C | 8°C | Low | Best |
| Jul | 20°C | 10°C | Low | Best |
| Aug | 20°C | 10°C | Low | Best |
| Sep | 18°C | 6°C | Low | Best |
| Oct | 14°C | 2°C | Low | Best |
| Nov | 10°C | -2°C | Low | Best |
| Dec | 8°C | -6°C | Low | Good |