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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.
Highlights
- Explore Lo Manthang, the walled capital of the ancient Kingdom of Lo.
- Discover 1,000-year-old cave monasteries with preserved frescoes.
- Trek through an otherworldly landscape of eroded canyons and cliffs.
- Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture untouched by modernization.
- One of few treks accessible during monsoon season.
- Visit Chhoser Cave, one of the world's highest cave systems.
Related Topics
Trek Gallery
Quick Stats
Best Time to Visit
Monthly Weather Overview
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Fly to Jomsom (2,720m) & Trek to Kagbeni (2,800m)
Spectacular flight from Pokhara through the world's deepest gorge. Short trek to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. Medieval town with maze-like alleys.
Trek to Chele (3,050m)
Cross the checkpoint and enter the restricted area. The landscape transforms dramatically—red cliffs and eroded formations replace green valleys.
Trek to Samar (3,290m)
Cross Taklam La Pass. The trail passes ancient chortens and mani walls. Samar is a small village with traditional flat-roofed houses.
Trek to Gheling (3,570m)
Stunning day through colorful canyons. Visit Ghar Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in Mustang. Gheling sits in a green oasis among barren hills.
Trek to Tsarang (3,560m)
Cross Nyi La Pass with views of Annapurna and Nilgiri. Tsarang was once the second-largest settlement in the kingdom with a dramatic ruined dzong (fort).
Trek to Lo Manthang (3,840m)
The final approach to the walled city. Enter through the main gate into a medieval world. Whitewashed buildings, narrow alleys, and fluttering prayer flags.
Explore Lo Manthang
Visit the four-story Royal Palace, Champa Lhakhang (God House), Thubchen Gompa with incredible murals, and Choedhe monastery. Meet local Loba people.
Excursion to Chhoser & Garphu Caves
Day trip to the remarkable Chhoser Cave complex—ancient cliff dwellings carved into the mountainside. Some caves contain 2,000-year-old artifacts.
Trek to Yara (3,650m) via Alternative Route
Return via the eastern route for different scenery. Pass through Dhi and descend to Yara village. Visit Luri Gompa cave monastery.
Trek to Tangbe (3,240m)
Continue the descent through dramatic landscapes. Tangbe village is known for its buckwheat fields and traditional architecture.
Trek to Chhuksang (2,980m)
Final day in the restricted area. Explore the red and gray striped cliffs. Ancient fossils can be found in the sedimentary rocks.
Trek to Kagbeni (2,800m)
Return to the checkpoint. Exit the restricted zone. Last night in the medieval alleys of Kagbeni.
Trek to Jomsom & Fly to Pokhara
Morning trek to Jomsom airport. Weather-dependent flight back to Pokhara through the Kali Gandaki gorge. Lakeside celebration.
Physical Preparation
Physical Preparation
- Hiking
- Cardio
Accommodation & Facilities
What to Bring
Documents
- Passport
- Restricted Area Permit ($500)
- ACAP Permit
- TIMS Card
- Passport photos (4-6)
- Insurance
Clothing
- Layering system for temperature swings
- Windproof jacket
- Warm fleece
- Sun hat and buff
- Warm evening layers
Footwear
- Hiking boots (broken in)
- Sandals
- Gaiters for dusty trails
- Comfortable socks
Equipment
- Sleeping bag (-10°C)
- Daypack
- Trekking poles
- Sunglasses (essential)
- Water bottles (2L+)
- Camera
Sun & Dust Protection
- High SPF sunscreen (reapply often)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Buff/bandana for dust
- Eye drops
- Moisturizer
Cost Breakdown
Cost Breakdown
Safety & Emergency
Safety & Emergency
Lower altitude than most Himalayan treks. Restricted area requires organized tour with permits. Remote region with limited medical facilities. Dry climate—stay hydrated.
