Highlights
- Visiting one of the holiest Hindu temples in the world, Pashupatinath Temple, Swyambhunath, Boudhnath, and other UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley.
- Joyous ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara and, almost at the end, scenic flight back to Kathmandu.
- Epic aerial scenery as you fly from Pokhara to Jomsom and vice versa.
- Walk through the diverse landscape from lush lowlands to desert terrains in stark contrast to whitewashed mountains within the highly restricted area of Nepal.
- Unique Thakali and Gurung culture, closely related yet distinctive, both guided by Tibetan Buddhism.
The Upper Mustang Trek is in one of Nepal’s restricted areas, a dry river valley that shares routes with the Annapurna Circuit Trek in the rain shadow area that was opened for foreigners only in the year 1992. The decades of isolation from the modern world—no wonder it is culturally significant, full of landmarks that locals cherish: mani walls, monasteries, prayer flags, and prayer wheels showcasing Tibetan Buddhism influence.
The Upper Mustang Trekking Itinerary of 17 days is the standard route with an acclimatization day at Lo-Manthang, once a capital city of the Upper Mustang Valley that still holds the reminiscence of royal palaces where royals used to reside. You get to see and explore the best of the region, often described as “desert in the mountains,” “The Last Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal,” or “Himal Pari ko Gaon” beyond the mountains.
Hence, it is one of the best Upper Mustang Valley Trek routes, including for the years 2026 and 2027. Bookings are now open. Early birds and groups of trekkers with more than 10 members enjoy special discounts on the Upper Mustang Valley Trekking Cost. At the heart of the Kathmandu Valley, Thamel, Nepal, we are here offering premium services on every trip you do with us at a reasonable price.
If you are wondering where to go after the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek or seeking more off-the-beaten Himalayan trekking trails in Nepal, the Upper Mustang Valley Trip is the place you have been dreaming about. Proper packing and preparation, including obtaining a special permit and hiring a professional guide—our Upper Mustang Valley Trek cost covers it all. Contact us now and reserve your spot!
What to expect during the trekking journey to Upper Mustang?
The Upper Mustang Trek overall does not include journeying beyond 5,000 m above sea level. If you are following the standard Upper Mustang Valley Trekking Itinerary, the highest point you reach is at around 4,010 m/13,156 ft at Nyi La Pass above sea level, or you may choose a side hike to Choosar Cave. At mid altitude, it is, however, a must that one make up their mind and prepare physically for the challenges of trekking trails in Nepal.
Remote, and as you go higher, rugged terrains with some steep ascents and descents. On rapid ascent without proper acclimatization, 3,000 m above sea level, you can still suffer from the symptoms of altitude sickness, also called Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), on the Upper Mustang Trekking route. But the rewards make up for all the hardships you had to deal with. Desert landscapes, like in the upper region, make the Upper Mustang Trekking worth it.
Why, despite its popularity, does Upper Mustang remain off the beaten path?
Yes, in recent years, the popularity of the Upper Mustang Valley as one of the best trekking destinations has increased significantly. The region is visited by thousands of local tourists each year; however, as the region allows limited special permits for foreigners, it is still able to make its place in one of the less trodden routes in the Himalayas, which ensures an authentic cultural experience and escape to the serenity of a timeless silence.
Geographically a part of the largest conservation area of Nepal, the Annapurna Conservation Area, further famous for several short and long trekking routes like the Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC), Annapurna Circuit Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, and others, Upper Mustang, in addition, is also one of the highly restricted areas of Nepal to preserve its unique ecosystem and culture, making it still largely less trodden.
What makes the culture in Upper Mustang stand out?
The journey to complete the Upper Mustang Trek itinerary officially begins on the 4th day with a flight to Jomsom. Thereafter, only you trek to arrive at Kagbeni. From Kagbeni it is to Chele, Syanbochen, Ghami, Tsarang, Lo Manthang, Drakmar, Ghiling, Chhuksang, and then again back to Jomsom. These are traditional stone-roofed villages largely inhabited by Thakali and Gurungs and, in the upper region, communities with close cultural ties to Tibet.
But still distinctively guided by Tibetan Buddhism that preaches peace, non-violence, and harmony among all the living beings across the world, some may find it surprising how they have continued to preserve their unique identity in this era of massive tourism. Locals lead a simple yet content life close to their kin and nature; their warm and genuine hospitality is dipped deep into religious and spiritual beliefs, which is a life-changing experience.
How many mountains can you see on the way to Upper Mustang Valley?
While the Upper Mustang Hiking is often described as a journey beyond the Himalayas of Nepal, in the Nepalese language, “Himal Pari Ko Gaon” basically means “a place behind the mountains.” Don’t worry; you won’t actually be missing out on any of the Himalayan scenery. Though it might be different from typical sights you see during other high Himalayan treks and climbs, instead desert like landscape topped by snow-capped mountain giants.
It is almost impossible not fall in love with the majestic sight of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri South, Central, South, Annapurna I, II, III & IV, Tukuche Peak, and Dhampus, surrounded by around 10-15 prominent peaks. The number varies, as some days the weather may not be favorable and hide some mountains and peaks. Regardless, because you are trekking to the trans-Himalayan region, you won’t have to compromise with impressive mountain views.
Can you see the royal palace in Lo Manthang?
Lo Manthang, at an altitude of 3,840 m above sea level, is the ancient walled capital of Upper Mustang Valley that once had a king of its own within Nepal. No wonder it is historically significant. I.e., yes, you can observe the royal palace where once royals from the region used to govern the area. Although it may be partially damaged, its presence makes it one of the must-visit places for archaeologists.
In and around the city, there are several monasteries, sky burials, caves, and narrow alleys to explore. The 17 days for the Upper Mustang Trekking Itinerary from Mountain Ascents includes the 10th day dedicated to acclimatization and exploration only, so you do not miss any of the highlights Lo Manthang has to offer; hence, it is one of the best Upper Mustang Trek routes, including for the years 2026 and 2026.
Where to extend your Upper Mustang Trek?
If you wish or decide to see more of what Nepal has to offer, even before the Upper Mustang Trip departures or midway as you make it to Lo Manthang at the center of barren cliffs and widespread trans-Himalayan landscapes, there are a lot of side trips you can do. Join the Annapurna Circuit Trek to cross the Thorong La Pass and visit Muktinath Temple later on, or take a side excursion to Luri Gompa. We are happy to customize as per your preference.
Although it does naturally add to the Upper Mustang Trek cost, as it also means additional management of lodges, meals, permits, and fulfilling other logistics requirements, you would definitely not regret it. With well-experienced guides, government-registered, and locally based, Mountain Ascents stands second to none in crafting a memorable, personalized experience. Group, couple, or private, share your plan. Bookings are now open.
The Best Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary and Cost for 2026 and 2027
It is because the 17 days for the Upper Mustang Trekking Itinerary ensure you get to hike at your pace, do not feel rushed, and have ample opportunity for proper acclimatization and exploration. It is taken as one of the best itineraries for trekking to Upper Mustang, including for the years 2026 and 2027. As mentioned above, you may extend the Himalayan trip if your fitness, budget, and time favor it.
Otherwise, the Upper Mustang Trek itinerary of 17 days is the standard one, and in that regard, even first-timers can smoothly complete the journey. It begins with your arrival in Nepal officially on the 4th day with a flight to Jomsom and hiking to arrive at Kagbeni after trip preparation on the second day, and a drive to Pokhara from Kathmandu on the 3rd. Thereafter is a gradual ascent until Lo Manthang.
Kagbeni, Chele, Syanbochen, Ghami, Tsarang, and finally to Lo Manathang. Two nights and days here, then you begin to retrace the Upper Mustang Valley Trek trail that you at first traversed to reach Lo Manthang, but now in a descending manner via Drakmar, Ghiling, Chhuksang, and Jomsom before flying back to Pokhara and Kathmandu. This Upper Mustang Trek cost is reasonable.
We guarantee you premium services whenever available. Meals, lodging, essential permits, guides, the flight to Jomsom from Pokhara and back, and also the drive to Pokhara from Kathmandu in the initial phase—the Upper Mustang Trekking Cost for a full package covers it all. In spring and autumn, the Himalayan weather is often at its best, so we offer fixed departures. Join our group, or share how you have planned your Himalayan holiday.
Our Strengths
- Certified and Experienced Guides
- High Success Rate
- Immersive/authentic experience
- Trek/Climbing Confidence and Highly Motivated Crew