Overview of Mustang Tour:
The Mustang Tour offers an extraordinary journey into one of the world’s most remote and pristine regions, blending rugged landscapes with rich cultural heritage. Known as a Himalayan Adventure, this tour takes travelers through the dramatic Trans-Himalayan terrain of Upper Mustang, a hidden kingdom with ancient monasteries and traditional villages, showcasing the unique Trans-Himalayan Culture. The adventure begins with a scenic flight to Jomsom, followed by a trek to the mystical Lo Manthang, the former capital, steeped in history and adorned with stunning Himalayan views.
The Upper Mustang Trek highlights the region’s untouched beauty, featuring arid landscapes, deep canyons, and the opportunity to explore sacred sites like the Chhoser and Jhong caves. The Lo Manthang Heritage shines through with its medieval architecture, royal palace, and vibrant festivals, offering a glimpse into a living Tibetan Buddhist culture. This tour combines thrilling trekking, cultural immersion, and breathtaking scenery, making it an ideal escape for adventurers and cultural enthusiasts seeking the essence of Nepal’s hidden Himalayan gem.
Trip facts of Mustang Tour:
Destination
Nepal/ Annapurna
Duration
8 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Activities
Tour and Trek
Accommodation
Hotels / Tea House
Food
Breakfast /Lunch /Dinner
Best Season
Sept to Nov / Mar to May
Max.altitude
4130m
Transportation
Drive/ Flight
Group Size
1 to 14++
Map
Highlight of Mustang Tour:
- Lo Manthang – Walled Kingdom: The ancient capital of Upper Mustang with whitewashed mud-brick houses, royal palace, and centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist monasteries.
- Kagbeni Village: A charming medieval village at the gateway to Upper Mustang, offering Tibetan-influenced culture and dramatic river valley views.
- Muktinath Temple: A sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists featuring 108 water spouts, eternal flame, and high-altitude spiritual energy.
- Jomsom – Gateway to Mustang: A windy mountain town along the Kali Gandaki River, serving as the transport hub and cultural base of Mustang.
- Chhoser Cave Dwellings: Fascinating ancient caves carved into cliffs, used for meditation and burial by early settlers and monks.
- Dhakmar & Ghar Gompa: Home to vibrant red cliffs and one of the oldest Tibetan monasteries, associated with the Guru Rinpoche legend.
- Scenic Himalayan Landscapes: Explore stark deserts, deep canyons, and stunning mountain views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri peaks.
- Unique Tibetan Buddhist Culture: Experience Tibetan language, dress, festivals, and monastic rituals preserved for centuries.
- Kali Gandaki Gorge: Travel through the world’s deepest gorge, rich in fossils and flanked by towering Himalayan giants.
- Scenic Flight or Drive to Jomsom: Enjoy a dramatic mountain flight or adventurous overland journey through rugged Mustang terrain.
Mustang Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel
- Warm welcome by our representative at Tribhuvan International Airport, followed by a smooth transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu.
- Relax or take a short walk to explore Thamel’s vibrant markets and nearby temples, soaking in the city’s lively charm.
Day 2: Fly to Pokhara and Then to Jomsom, Trek to Kagbeni
- Take a morning flight to Pokhara (25 minutes), then fly to Jomsom (20 minutes), and begin a short trek to Kagbeni (3-4 hours).
- Check into a guesthouse, explore the village, and acclimatize to the high altitude.
Day 3: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele
- Trek to Chele (5-6 hours), passing through narrow canyons and traditional villages, enjoying the arid landscape.
- Rest at a guesthouse and soak in the serene Himalayan surroundings.
Day 4: Trek from Chele to Geling
- Continue the Upper Mustang Trek to Geling (6-7 hours), visiting ancient monasteries along the way.
- Spend the evening in a guesthouse, interacting with local communities.
Day 6: Trek from Charang to Lo Manthang
- Reach Lo Manthang (4-5 hours), the heart of Lo Manthang Heritage, and check into a guesthouse.
- Visit the royal palace and Thubchen Monastery, experiencing the medieval ambiance.
Day 7: Explore Lo Manthang
- Spend the day exploring Lo Manthang’s monasteries, caves, and local markets, immersing in Trans-Himalayan Culture.
- Enjoy a cultural performance by locals in the evening.
Day 8: Trek Back to Jomsom via Samar and Kagbeni
- Trek back to Jomsom (7-8 hours), passing through Samar and Kagbeni, concluding the Himalayan Adventure.
- Check into a guesthouse and rest after the trek.
Day 9: Fly to Pokhara and Return to Kathmandu
- Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (20 minutes), then to Kathmandu (25 minutes), and check into your hotel.
- Spend a free evening shopping or relaxing in Thamel.
Day 10: Departure from Kathmandu
- After breakfast, enjoy free time for last-minute exploration or relaxation in Kathmandu.
- Our representative transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure, concluding your memorable journey.
Summary of Mustang Tour:
The Mustang Tour is an exhilarating Himalayan Adventure featuring the challenging Upper Mustang through remote landscapes, leading to the historic Lo Manthang Heritage with its royal palaces and monasteries. Immersed in Trans-Himalayan Culture, this tour offers a perfect blend of rugged trekking, cultural discovery, and stunning Himalayan vistas, creating an unforgettable escape into Nepal’s hidden Trans-Himalayan region.
Include Exclude in Mustang Tour:
What’s Included
- Transport I: Airport pick-up and drop in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini, with private vehicle
- Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini (based on the itinerary), including breakfast
- Documents: All required trekking permits (ACAP and TIMS), official documents, paperwork, office service charges, and government taxes
- Transport II: Transportation between Kathmandu or Lumbini to Pokhara (round trip) is arranged as per the itinerary, either by tourist bus, private vehicle, or plane
- Transport III: Transportation from Pokhara to the trek start point and back from the trek end point according to the itinerary
- Guide: Experience trekking guide
- Porters: One porter will be provided for every two trekkers
- Duffel Bag: If you need a duffel bag, please let us know before booking the trip and remind us after you arrive
- Trekking Map: A trekking route map for the group leader
- Food and Accommodation: Food and accommodation during the trek in tea houses (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Nepali Dinner: A farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant
What’s Excluded
- Flight ticket: International flight tickets and airport tax
- Nepal visa: You can get your Nepal visa upon arrival at the airport
- City Lunch: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu / Pokhara / Lumbini
- City tour: city tour with a vehicle and entry fees for visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Personal expenses: like laundry, phone calls, snacks, drinks, bar bills, and camera battery charging
- Travel Insurance: It should cover emergency evacuation if needed, while trekking to the highest point listed in the itinerary
- Trekking Equipment: Personal trekking gears for your comfort and safety
- Transport IV: Local jeep or bus transport during the trek (if needed but not mentioned in the itinerary)
- Tips and Gifts: Tips for guides, porters, drivers and related staff during trip
Gallery:
FAQs about Mustang:
1. What is the best time to visit Mustang?
The best time is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is clear, dry, and ideal for trekking and sightseeing. Winter can be very cold and the area may get snow, while the monsoon season brings heavy rains and landslides.
2. Do I need a special permit to visit Mustang?
Yes, visitors need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to enter Upper Mustang, which can be arranged through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. Lower Mustang does not require a permit, but it’s best to check the latest regulations before traveling.
3. How physically demanding is the Mustang trek?
The trek ranges from moderate to challenging, depending on the route and altitude, with elevations reaching over 3,800 meters at Muktinath and around 3,850 meters at Lo Manthang. Basic fitness and acclimatization are recommended to enjoy the trek safely.
4. What cultural experiences can I expect on the Mustang Tour?
You’ll experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture, visit ancient monasteries, witness traditional festivals, and meet local Loba people who maintain their unique language, dress, and customs. The region offers rare insight into a preserved Himalayan kingdom.
5. How do I reach Mustang from Kathmandu or Pokhara?
Most travelers fly from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Jomsom, the gateway to Mustang, via scenic mountain flights. Alternatively, you can take a jeep or bus overland, though the roads are rough and the journey is longer.
