Picture of Mt. Nilgiri and Tilicho Peak covered in a blanket of snow, taken on a clear day from Jomsom, Nepal.
Monks playing a ball game in front of a red-walled monastery in Kagbeni, Nepal.
A scenic view of the red and arid hills with the Kali Gandaki River flowing through and a road leading to the remote town of Lo-Mangthang.
A winding road leading to the town of Lo-Manthang with the majestic Mt. Nilgiri and Tilicho Peak towering in the background.
An aerial view of the majestic peaks of Mt. Dhaulagiri and Tukuche with scattered clouds in the sky, captured from the vantage point of Muktinath.
A breathtaking landscape view of the Upper Mustang region with clear skies and an abundance of rolling hills.
A vibrant red and white painted monastery nestled amidst the hills in the Chossar Village in the Upper Mustang region.

18 Days Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

  • Tour Kathmandu and Pokhara, Nepal's Biggest Citys. 
  • Explore Buddhist Monasteries and Hindu Temples.
  • Visit exclusive ancient Lo-Manthang City.  
  • Discover the Nepal Highland Geography.
  • Trekking in High Himalayas with Local Guide. 
  •  Explore the world's Highest Tibetan Plateau.   
An ancient fortress perched atop a hill, basked in warm sunlight with a barren, arid landscape in the background in Upper Mustang.
Return Guests get a 10% discount on all Trips!
  • Trip Type:

    Sightseeing & Trekking.

  • Group Size:

    2-12 People. 

  • Best Time to Visit:

    April/May and Sept/Oct

  • Max Altitude:

    3,840 meters.

    (12,590 ft.)

  • Start-End:

    Kathmandu - Kathmandu. 

  • Daily Activity:

    Tour, Hiking & Drive. 

Location:

Upper Mustang, Nepal.

  • Fly into Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)

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DESCRIPTION

Upper Mustang was opened for tourists in 1992 and is still a restricted area. A special permit from Nepal Government requires to enter Upper Mustang. Mustang was once an independent kingdom, although closely tied by language and culture to Tibet. The Tibetan-influenced culture, lifestyle, settlement, and landscape it’s always on the hit list of western tourists. The king of Lo-Manthang has officially been deposed. However, the Upper Mustang people still have faith in the

king and throne, which also represents the importance and significance of the culture and tradition of the Upper Mustang. Lo-Manthang (3840m) capital of Lo-kingdom surrounded by a high wall in a high desert land. Centuries-old Buddhist Monasteries, Stupa, and high cliff caves are the main highlights of this region. The ancient trade route between India and Tibet, centuries-old heritage monuments sites, and the close border with Tibet's upper Mustang have their geopolitical importance. High Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan range Upper Mustang is in the rain-shadow area, with a trans-Himalayan climate (cold and semi-arid). This region is part of the Tibetan Highland Paltue and shares a borderline with Tibet. Upper Mustang is the best alternative trip for those who want to visit Tibet but cannot obtain a Tibet Travel permit.

TRIP ITINERARY

DAY- 1: Arrive in Kathmandu.

Schedule your flight as your itinerary, and our trekking member will pick you up and drop in hotel. He will brief the next-day schedule.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu. 

DAY- 2: Kathmandu Heritage tour and sightseeing.

As per the plan, our guide will pick up for city sightseeing. Three primary Kathmandu heritage
sites, Baudhanath, Pashupatinath, and Kathmandu Durbar-Square, are scheduled for this day.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu. 

DAY- 3: Fly Kathmandu to Pokhara (822 M.) – 25 Minutes flight.

Pokhara is the second biggest city in Nepal and the starting point of many famous trekking routes. Especially renowned for its deep green lake, high green hills, and magnificent view of mountains. We fly to Pokhara as per schedule; the flight takes 15-20 minutes. After hotel check-in and lunch, we go sightseeing at International Mountain Museum, Davis Fall, and World Peace Stupa and back to the hotel.
 
Stay overnight in Fishtail Lodge or Temple Tree Resort.

DAY- 4: Fly to Jomsom and Trek to Kagbeni (2810 m.) – 10 KM. (approx. 3 hours).

Today we take a scenic flight to Jomsom, where we will meet our trekking crew and start our trek to Kagbeni. Kagbeni is a small old village on the bank of Kali Gandaki river and the entry point of Upper Mustang.

Stay overnight in the Local Tea House. 

DAY- 5: Trek Kagbeni to Chele (3100m) – 15 KM. (approx. 5 hours’ trek).

Following the road along the north bank of the Kaligandaki river over several small ridges and past Tangbe village, we encounter the distinctive black, red, and white chortens (stupa). After crossing the river and a short climb, we are to a small village Chele.

Stay overnight in the local Tea House.

DAY- 6: Trek Chele to Syangboche (3800m) – 15 KM. (approx.6 hours’ trek).

Today we ascend to the Yamda La pass at 3,850 meters, and walk towards the small village of Ghilin. After a few hours, ascend to Nyi La (4020 m.), one of the highest points in our trek which offers stunning views towards south Annapurna and further into Mustang.

Stay overnight in the Local Tea House. 

DAY- 7: Trek Syangboche to Ghami (3510m) – 11 KM. (approx. 5 hours Walk)

Today we ascend to the Yamda La pass at 3,850 meters, and walk towards the small village of Ghilin. After a few hours, ascend to Nyi La (4020 m.), one of the highest points in our trek, which offers stunning views towards south Annapurna and further into Mustang.
Stay Overnight in The Local Tea House.

DAY- 8: Trek Ghami to Charang (3560m) – 10 KM (4-5 hours trek).

We cross a suspension bridge over the Ghami Khola and ascend. Mani walls along the trail decorate the pathway. Next, we cross the Tsarang La Pass at 3870 m. and reach Tsarang village. We can visit old monasteries and a fortress built on the village's east side.

Stay overnight in the Local Tea House.

Day- 9: Trek Charang to Lo-Manthang (3840m) – 13 KM. (Approx. 4 hours’ trek).

Today we start our trek by descending to a canyon and crossing a river before beginning ascending to Lo La pass, which is at 3950m, where you can see our final stopover Lo- Manthang

Stay Overnight in the Tea House. 

Day- 10: Explore around Lo-Manthang and rest day.

Today we are a fascinating city that offers countless opportunities to observe Tibetan culture. Many old famous monasteries and King's palace is the main attraction of Lo. We can hike to the top of Hill, which offers a panoramic view of Lo. Valley. You can also set an optional side trip on horse or jeep to the nearby Chosar Village, where you can visit the remarkable location with towering red cliffs with caves dating as far back as 2,500 years ago.

Stay Overnight in The Local Tea House. 

Day- 11: Trek Lo-Manthang to Dhakamr or Ghami via Ghar Gumba – 20 KM. (8 hours’ trek).

We ascent for an hour towards the northwest of Lo-Manthang to the Chango La (4280m) before the descent to Ghar Gompa (monastery), which is believed to pre-date the first monastery built in this region. Continuing down to Dhakmar for Lunch or Tea and back to Ghami village for an overnight stay, or we can stop in Dhakmar for an overnight Stay.

Stay Overnight in the Tea House.

Day- 12: Trek Ghami to Samar (3700 m.) – 18 Km (approx. 7 hours walk).

We continue back south, first, we short climb to Chemi La and Yiy La passes then descend to valley via Syangboche. Stay overnight in Samar. 

Stay overnight in The Local Guest House.

Day- 13: Trek Samara to Tetang – 13 Km. (Approx. 5 hours walk).

Following back the same route of the beginning, we cross the Kali Gandaki river and walk continue to Chhusang for lunch and turn northeast to Tetang village

Stay Overnight at local guest.

Day- 14: Tetang to Muktinath (12,334 ft.) – 14 Km. (approx. 7 hours walk).

Today is a long day of an uphill climb; we ascend northeast of Tetang. Muktinath is a sacred pilgrimage site of Hindus and Buddhists. This region is famous for its temple and monasteries. 

Stay Overnight in local guest house.

Day-15: Muktinath to Jomsom – 17 Km. (approx. 6 hours walk).

After breakfast, we descend to Jomsom along the Kali Gandaki river. Stop overnight in Jomsom.

Stay overnight in the local guest house.

Day - 16: Fly Jomsom to Pokhara and Rest Day in Pokhara (820m).

Early morning, we fly to Nepal's second biggest Pokhara city. Flights take 20-25 minutes and fly between the highest mountain Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. We check into the hotel, rest and walk around Phewa lake.

Stay at Temple Tree or Fishtail Lodge.

Day - 17: Fly back to Kathmandu.

Fly back to Kathmandu. Good weather offers you an excellent view of the mountains. In Pokhara, we Check-in the hotel, rest, and shop. Your guide will update you about the next day's schedule.

Stay overnight in Tibet International or Similar. 

Day - 18: Final Departure:

Our office staff will drop you in airport 3 hours before flight schedule. 

TRIP DETAILS

WHAT'S INCLUDED

✅ 3 nights in Kathmandu and two nights in Pokhara 4 stars hotel on sharing basis. Tea houses on sharing basis during the trek.

All listed transport and activities.

Entry fees in a Heritage site in Kathmandu as per itinerary.

Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner during Trekking.

Upper Mustang Trekking permit ($500).

Arrival and departure transfers.

Experienced Trekking guide and other support staff.

Flight ticket Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara. 

✅ Flight Tickets Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu. 

Proper Insurance for all local staff, including porters.

Service Charge & Government Taxes.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

Personal Travel and Medical Insurance. (Travel insurance is compulsory for all travelers.)
Personal Trekking Gear and Equipment.
Tips and gratitude to the guide and driver.
International flight tickets. 
Personal expenses, like laundry, phone calls, snacks & soft drinks.
Lunch and Dinner during staying in Kathmandu and Pokhara. 
Extra cost occurs due to unforeseen circumstances during the trip, like flight cancellation and medical issues. 
Visa fees and vaccination. (COVID-19 vaccination is mandatory for all travellers.

 

WHAT GEAR TO BRING

Once you book  this trek you’ll receive access to a printable, downloadable trip information packet with a detailed packing list.

FAQ

How do I sign up for a trip?

Reserving a trip is easy. Send us a note or call us at  734-997-7229 or contact us directly:  Pem Dorjee Sherpa at 303-834-5512, info@imperialexpedition.com.  Once we have received your information, we will send the trip application.  Please complete and return these forms with your deposit of $500 for each person, which amount is applied toward the cost of your trip.  Full payment is required if you sign up within 45 days of the trip’s departure.  We recommend that you sign up as early as possible.  The trip deposit is fully refundable until 90 days before departure, so there is no risk in reserving your space early.  All prices quoted are in US dollars and are subject to change.  All payments must be made in US dollars.  We accept Visa®, MasterCard®, and American Express® as well as personal checks or PayPal. We are also open to creating trips on a first-come-first-serve basis.  If there is a trip that you have an interest in particular dates that you have in mind, we will organize a trip just for you.  
Once you have paid the deposit, we will finalize your itinerary and send information about health, culture, packing lists, and more to help you get ready.  We can also help you find international flights to your destination.  Full payment will be due about a month before departure.  We will ask for a copy of your passport, a medical form, a release of liability form, an acknowledgment of terms and conditions, a copy of your flights, emergency evacuation insurance, etc.  We will be available by phone and email to answer questions and help you organize your trip's details.  We will pick you up at the airport and make all local arrangements abroad so that you can get the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE TO TREK IN THE HIMALAYAS?

You should be moderately fit, exercise regularly, and enjoy active vacations, walking, and hiking in mountainous terrain.  For the Everest base camp trek, you should be able to run for an hour without stopping at any speed and still feel good to continue – OR – walk for 5-6 hours in a day with rests.  Trekking is an endurance sport.  Mostly you need a good attitude, which will go a long way toward the success of reaching your goal.

 

What is the best time to Trek in Upper Mustang?

The popular time for the Upper Mustang trek is Mid-March to Mid-May; this time is warm and the best time to see the changing color of Nature. Another popular time is Mid-September to Mid-November, especially October, considered the best time to trek; during this time temperature is best for hiking. Upper Mustang is open for all seasons, and you can do any season, but you will need to prepare according to the season and weather conditions in this region. 

Why is the Upper Mustang region restricted to tourists?

Upper Mustang is located in the northwestern part of Nepal; this region Was isolated from the outside world till 1992. Only a few explorers get a chance to visit this region. Due to its geographical and cultural uniqueness Nepal government only accesses a limited number of tourists. This region is also part of the Tibetan Plateau or Tibetan Highland, which offers similar cultural and geographical features to Tibet. Upper Mustang is also the close border of Tibet's autonomous region of China, which plays a vital role in Nepal and China's geo-political strategy.  

Can we shorten the trek day or itinerary?

Yes, you can shorten your trekking trip by driving; you can use a jeep to go directly to Lo-Mangtahang, which is not recommended because of the possibility of high altitude sickness. We recommend well acclimatization before entering the high-altitude zone to avoid high-altitude sickness. 

How can we get an Upper Mustang trekking permit?

Travelers who want to trek or tour in the Upper Mustang must apply for a travel permit through a trekking agency registered in Nepal. Upper Mustang travel permit issued by the department of immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Travelers must get ten days' travel permits at first, which fee is  $500 (per day $50). If you plan to stay more than ten days, you must pay an extra $50 per day.  

How big will the group be?

We try to bring together a small group of like-minded people.  Our trekking groups generally range from 2 to a maximum of 12 members, although we can accommodate smaller groups.  The Department of Immigration does not issue a travel permit for a single person; the tourist number must be more than two, and a minimum of ten days travel permit should take by paying $500 per person. 

How difficult is Upper Mustang Trek?

Upper Mustang  Trek is a moderate trekking trail; this trek is suitable for all age groups of people and fitness-level hikers. The maximum altitude of the trek is 3,840 meters/12,398 feet, which is not a high trekking trail compared to other trekking trail in Nepal. Daily hiking distance is, on average, 9 Kilometers, and you can rest or stay overnight wherever suitable for you. 

WHAT SORT OF EXPERIENCE DO YOUR GUIDES HAVE?

Our guides are dependable, competent, and highly qualified, with more than ten years of trekking experience, leading trips, treks, climbs, and expeditions in the Himalayas.  Our guides speak English and the local language.  We are trained in first aid and CPR. Most importantly, our guides are friendly and enjoyable and passionate about sharing Nepal's rich cultures, traditions, and natural beauty.

WHAT IS THE ROUTINE ON THE TREK?

Most trekkers start their day early, around 7:30 to 8:30 am, after a hot breakfast.  The morning sun offers nice mountain views.  You will carry a light pack for your camera, water, a jacket, and a wind layer.  Around noon we will reach the lunch stop, where we will spend time drinking tea, resting, and having lunch.  After lunch, we usually walk for 2 to 3 more hours before arriving, where we will stop for the evening.  Here at the lodge, we will have hot tea and relax for the rest of the day.  Our day ends with dinner, and then off to bed in single or double rooms in the trekking lodge.

 

What if I have to cancel?

If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due to Imperial Expedition prior to departure when we receive written notice of your cancellation. Cancellation Fee Schedule for tours and treks:

  • 90-81 days prior to departure You forfeit half the deposit
  • 80-60 days prior to departure You forfeit the deposit
  • 59-31 days prior to departure You forfeit 50% of the total amount
  • 30 or fewer days prior to departure You forfeit the entire cost of the trip

Cancellation Fee Schedule for Climbing Trips and Expeditions:

  • 180-150 days prior to departure You forfeit
  • 149-89 days prior to departure You forfeit 50% of the total amount
  • 90 or fewer days prior to departure You forfeit the entire cost of the trip
 



HOW LONG DO WE WALK EACH DAY?

Our trips are classified into three categories according to the level of difficulty.  Easy adventure treks are about a week to 10 days in duration.  They generally don’t go above 13,000 feet (4,000m).  You can expect hiking/walking for around 4-5 hours daily.  Moderate to somewhat challenging treks are longer treks that go into a high mountain country above 13,000 feet (4,000m).  Physically these trips are more demanding and tiring and may involve 6-8 hours of trekking along rocky trails in high Himalayan terrain.  Strenuous treks are longer treks that go beyond the everyday activities of trekkers and tourists.  These include ice climbing and mountaineering expeditions.  Physically challenging, these trips may involve 7-9 hours of trekking in a day and are likely to include unfavorable weather conditions and strenuous activities.  Some level of experience may be required for these trips.

Can we access the internet and use our cell phones during Trek?

Yes, you can activate your international roaming service before entering Nepal, which costs more expensive than your regular service at home. You can use WIFI in the Local Tea House, where you have to charge $2 to $5 to use WIFI, or you can buy a recharge card to use internet data. Specific locations may be out of connection by cell phone service and WIFI where we can use the satellite phone. 

What happens in case of an emergency?

In the case of a serious illness or a life-threatening emergency during your trek, a helicopter rescue will be initiated.  You are responsible for all the expenses incurred in such an evacuation.  It is required that you have insurance that covers emergency helicopter evacuation throughout your trip.  However unlikely, we are prepared for emergencies, and your guide will respond quickly to get any necessary medical help.  We aim to avoid such circumstances with education and a large dose of preventative medicine.

Can I get a Nepal visa on arrival?

Yes! A Nepal visa is readily available upon arrival at the entry places. Make the process easier by downloading & completing the application form, having the correct USD cash, and two passport photographs. Visa fees are mention as below: 
Multiple entry15 daysUS$ 25 or equivalent Nepali currency
Multiple entry30 daysUS$ 40 or equivalent Nepali currency
Multiple entry90 daysUS$ 100 or equivalent Nepali currency

Custom Declaration on Kathmandu, Nepal Arrival (For Foreign Nationals)

1. Travelers must declare goods over permitted personal effects and duty-exempted consumable goods and restricted/prohibited goods and commercial goods at the red channel. Travelers possessing such goods may use the green channel.
2. Export or import narcotics, arms and explosives, wildlife and its products, and commercial goods are restricted/prohibited. Attempt to import or export such goods may lead to confiscation of goods, penalty, and arrest resulting in prosecution.
3. Travelers must declare foreign currency at the red channel if the sum exceeds US$2000 or equivalent.
4. Permitted used personal effects are as follows in condition to return at the time of departure:
1. Binocular one set.
2. Video Camera and still camera one set each.
3. Portable music system one set recorded media 10 pcs.
4. Cloths and goods of day-to-day use.
5. Perambulator and tricycle, one set each.
6. Bicycle one set.
7. Watch one piece.
8. Cellular mobile phone one set
9. Professional hand tools are one set for professional personnel.
5. Duty-exempted consumable goods are as follows:
1. Whiskey/wine not exceeding 1.15 liters or beer up to 12 cans.
2. Cigarettes 200 sticks, cigar 50 sticks, tobacco 250 grams.
3. Camera film up to 15 pcs and movie film 12 reels.
4. Readymade and can foods not exceeding NRs.1000.00.
5. Medicine not exceeding Nrs.1000.00.
6. Fresh fruits not exceeding NRs.1000.00

Is it possible to deviate from the itinerary?

Our specific itineraries are custom crafted with you in mind.  Once we agree on a plan, we can make minor changes and adjustments en route.  The itinerary acts as a general plan for the trip.  However, there are often local events, festivals, and holidays that could affect or change our schedule. As long as everyone agrees on these changes, that is fine. Significant changes to the itinerary may be made if there are political or environmental concerns.  Your guide will be able to help to make any necessary adjustments.  Our trips are adventures that may take you into remote regions where unforeseen circumstances may contribute to the need for a change in the itinerary.

Do you have any suggestions on what to do and what not to do concerning the Nepalese culture?

Nepal has many diverse ethnic groups, traditions, and religions.  Numerous cultural practices may appear unusual to a person on his/her first visit to the country.
  • The most common greeting in Nepal is “Namaste,” performed by placing the palms together and bowing as if praying.
  • Before entering a Nepalese home, temple or monastery, remember to remove your shoes and place them neatly side-by-side.
  • Be careful not to use your spoon, fork, or hands to touch another person’s food, plate, cooking utensils, or even the serving dish.  Do not eat from other people’s plates, and do not drink from other people’s water bottles or glasses.  This is considered to be impure by the Nepalese.
  • Never touch anything with your feet.  The feet and the floor are considered dirty.
  • While traveling, please feel free to dress appropriately.  Women should avoid short skirts and sleeveless shirts.
  • Seek permission before entering a Hindu temple.  Many Hindu temples do not allow non-Hindus to enter.
  • Leather is prohibited inside temples because cows are considered sacred and are not used for slaughter.
  • Walking around temples or Buddhist stupas is traditionally done clockwise.
  •  Ask before taking photographs of the locals.  Some believe part of the soul is taken when a picture is snapped.
  • Public displays of affection between a man and a woman are frowned upon and are not generally accepted.
  • When the Nepalese shake their head from left to right, they may mean, “Yes.”
  • Develop a genuine interest in Nepal and meet and talk to the Nepalese people.  Do your best to respect their local customs and traditions.

Payment methods.

For your convenience, we have different payment methods, as mentioned below. You can choose any of these methods:
1. Bank Transfer (ask for account info) 
2. Mail a check made out to 'Imperial Expedition' to Imperial Expedition  218 S. Main St. Ann Arbor, MI. 48104
3.  You can also pay by credit card, over the phone, or online

What about transferring trips?

Tours and trekking trips may be transferred to the next year or another date; however, the transfer must be made 90 days or more before departure.  Otherwise, if the transfer is made 90 days or less before departure, you must pay the cancellation fees outlined above.  There are no extra fees for transferring trips more than 90 days before departure.  However, for climbing trips and expeditions, if you would like to change our trip to the next year or different dates, an automatic transfer fee of $1,000 must be paid to Imperial Expedition.

Should I purchase trip cancellation insurance?

Suppose you must cancel your trip due to illness, injury, or death of yourself or an immediate family member, trip cancellation insurance protects all your deposits and payments for air and land costs.  It is recommended that you buy trip cancellation insurance, but optional.

 



What if Of Imperial Expedition cancels my trip?

Imperial Expedition reserves the right to cancel all or a portion of a trip due to political or environmental circumstances which may hinder trip operations or for other reasons beyond our control.  In case of such a cancellation, we will give a full refund for the cost of the trip.  However, Imperial Expedition is not responsible for additional expenses incurred by you in preparing for the trip, visa fees, gear, insurance, or medical expenses prior to the trip.  The airline's refund policy applies if international air tickets have been purchased.

What other expenses should I consider?

Medical advice and inoculations, health and travel insurance, travel and trekking gear, international airfare, Nepali visas, airport tax, spending money, and most meals are not included in the cost of your trip.

How much should I budget for tipping?

Your support team will work hard to please you during your trip.  They will appreciate receiving a tip at the end of their service.  The amount you give depends on you and your appreciation of their work.  We recommend giving tips from $200 – $300 to your porters. 

 



Electricity in Nepal

Residential electrical outlets in some countries, including the United States, use 110-120 volts of electricity and accept certain plugs. Many other countries, including Nepal, use 220-240 volts to power their appliances and different plugs. If you try to plug an American device, such as a shaver or hair dryer, into an outlet of a different voltage, you may destroy the appliance and cause yourself injury. Before you travel, you should know a few things about other countries (like Nepal).

Contact Us

We are always available to answer your questions.  Please let us know what’s on your mind.  Good communication is essential for a safe and fulfilling trip!  Send us a note or call us directly:
Name:  Pem Dorjee Sherpa
Phone:  303-834-5512
Email:  info@imperialexpedition.com