The Upper Mustang Trek is an extraordinary journey that takes trekkers deep into the remote, rain-shadow region of the former Kingdom of Mustang in northern Nepal. This culturally rich and scenically breathtaking trek winds through an arid, high-altitude landscape offering panoramic views of major Himalayan peaks like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Trekkers explore the ancient walled city of Lo-Manthang, the seat of the former Mustang kings, and gain insight into the preserved Tibetan Buddhist culture through visits to centuries-old monasteries, caves with rock art, and interactions with the local people who maintain a traditional way of life. While challenging due to the elevations between 3,000-3,800 meters, the unique spirituality, stunning vistas, and authentic immersion into this hidden Himalayan world make the Upper Mustang Trek a truly unforgettable experience.

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to pokhara (850m) – 6-7hours

Your journey start with a scenic drive that takes around 6 to 7 hours to the Pokhara Valley. When you get there, you’ll greeted by the serene splendor of Phewa Lake, a peaceful spot. Check into a hotel right by the lake. Then, enjoy your time in the Lakeside area, where you can shop, grab a drink, or eat at different places. It’s a fun part of town with lots to do.

Day 2: From Pokhara Fly to Jomsom (2700m) & Trek To kagbeni (2800m) - (20-25minute) flight & 3 hours hike

On the second day, your adventure continues with a short yet breathtaking flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, lasting about 20 to 25 minutes. This aerial journey offers a spectacular panorama of the world-renowned Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest of its kind, flanked by towering mountains such as Mt. Dhaulagiri, the Annapurna range, and the iconic Machapuchare, also known as Fishtail. Upon touching down in Jomsom, you'll embark on a 3 to 4-hour trek towards Kagbeni. This picturesque village serves as the gateway to the Upper Mustang region, where your travel permits will be verified. As you hike, feast your eyes on the impressive sights of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak. Your day concludes with an overnight stay in the welcoming village of Kagbeni.

Day 3: Trek from kagbeni to chele (3050m) – 5 - 6 hours

We'll set off at dawn to get ahead of the afternoon winds. As the day breaks, the Nilgiri Mountain (7061 m) glows orange, a reflection of the sunrise. Our path runs along the east side of the Kali Gandaki River before opening up to the expansive Chhusang Valley. Climbing up from Kagbeni, we're treated to a stunning view of the village against the backdrop of the towering Mt. Nilgiri. The journey continues eastward into the drier landscapes characteristic of Mustang. The village of Tangbe soon welcomes us with its distinctive red and white houses across the river, offering splendid views of the Kali Gandaki below. Ancient caves dot the cliffs above, hinting at the valley's early settlers. Our trek concludes for the day at Chele, where the Himalayas stretch out before us. We'll rest here for the night, surrounded by the grandeur of the mountains.

Day 4: Chele to Syangmoche (3475m) - 6-7 hours

Embark on a thrilling trek that starts with a challenging uphill journey, followed by a descent through a dramatic canyon to the village of Samar. Your path then weaves through a scenic gorge, you’ll cross a river at some point along the way, leading up to a steep path to the top of the ridge.. The day ends with a peaceful descent to Syangboche, where you'll rest for the night. Enjoy your adventure!

Day 5: Trek from Syangmoche to Ghami (3500m) – 5-6 hours

Begin your adventure in Syangboche, trekking through stunning landscapes. As you ascend, feast your eyes on the towering peaks and the deep Kali Gandaki gorge. Wander through a tapestry of paths, descending only to discover the charming villages of Tamagaon and Chhunggar. Journey on, where each step through these age-old communities leads you closer to Jhaite. Marvel at the pristine, snow-draped mountains along the way. Then, let the gentle slopes guide you down to the tranquil village of Ghami. Here, under a starlit sky, find comfort and warmth at the cozy Ghami teahouse.

Day 6: Ghami to Charang (3560m) - 5-6 hours

With the day's first light, set out on an upward path toward Tsarang. Enjoy a quick bite before embarking. Along the way, marvel at a 250-meter stretch of sacred prayer wall, a true gem of the trek. Post-breakfast, the adventure carries on over diverse landscapes. Cross a picturesque river and tackle the grand Tsarang La Pass. Once over the pass, meander down into Tsarang, a quaint village nestled among the mountains, offering panoramic snowy vistas.

Day 7: Charang to Lo Manthang (3770m) - 4-5hours

The trail takes you to Lo Manthang, our final destination. You'll trek through stunning landscapes, covering 11 kilometers in about 4 to 5 hours. The wide trail gradually ascends, offering majestic views of the Himalayan peaks, including Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. Lo Manthang, once the capital of Kingdom Lo, is a walled town with ethnic Lo settlements. You'll spend the night there.

Day 8: Exploration day In Lo Manthang

Today's journey immerses you in the heart of Lo-Manthang, a gem nestled 50 kilometers from the Tibetan border. This historic town was once a bustling trade center for salt and textiles between Nepal and Tibet, a legacy that continues with mules still transporting goods from Tibet. Encircled by a 6-meter wall, when you look at Lo-Manthang’s skyline, think of it as a picture frame with four corners. Each corner is marked by a tower, standing tall and guarding the city. These towers add to the city’s unique charm and tell stories of its history. Within these walls lie treasures of cultural and religious importance: the Thubchen Monastery, the King's palace, a museum rich with history, the Jampa Monastery, and centers of Thangka painting. Home to approximately 900 Lo families, this unique community cherishes its traditions, marrying within their own and following the Bonpo form of Tibetan Buddhism. Lo-Manthang's doors remained closed to outsiders until the 1990s, preserving its mystique. Now, though open, it welcomes a limited number of 1000 visitors annually, accessible only through authorized trekking agenciesAfter a day of exploration, taking in the sights and sounds of this ancient city, you'll retreat to your local stay, resting amidst a backdrop of timeless tranquility.

Day 9: Lo Manthang to Dhakmar (3800m) (5-6hours)

Embarking from the stunning sights of Lo-Manthang, our journey commences with a vigorous climb to the Chogo La pass, situated at an elevation of 4,230 m. This remarkable pass promises an exhilarating adventure through the region. Once we've traversed the pass, our path will guide us towards Lo Gekar. The highlight of Lo Gekar is the Ghar Gompa, belonging to the Lo Nyingma sect, which stands as a beacon of cultural significance. Advancing from there, the route leads us to Muila Bhanjyang, where you are greeted with breathtaking panoramas of the encompassing peaks. The trail then winds its way to the picturesque hamlet of Dhamkar. Here, you will find respite for the night in the cozy local teahouses.

Day 10: Dhakmar to Ghiling (3860m) – 5-6 hours

You’ll commence your trek from Dhakmar to Ghiling, a charming village known for its impressive Chortens (Buddhist shrines), ancient monasteries, and unique landscapes. As you set out, the rugged terrain will unfold before you, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail winds through picturesque villages, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and lifestyle. Keep an eye out for prayer flags fluttering in the wind and the distinctive architecture of the traditional Mustang houses. After approximately 5-6 hours of trekking, you'll reach Ghiling, where you'll spend the night. Ghiling is a peaceful village with a rich history, and its serene atmosphere provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation after a day of exploration.

Day 11: Ghiling to Chuksang (3050m) – 6-7hours

Continue your journey towards Chuksang. The trail meanders through ancient settlements, revealing glimpses of Upper Mustang's fascinating past. As you walk, take in the breathtaking landscapes—the barren cliffs, deep canyons, and distant snow-capped peaks. The local lifestyle here is deeply intertwined with Tibetan Buddhism, and you'll encounter prayer wheels, mani walls, and monasteries along the way. Chuksang, your destination for the day, sits at an altitude of approximately 3,050 meters (10,004 feet). Explore the narrow alleys, interact with friendly locals, and appreciate the simplicity of life in this remote region. As the sun sets, enjoy the warm hospitality of your guesthouse and reflect on the unique experiences of your Upper Mustang adventure.

Day 12: Chuksang to Jomsom (2715m) – 5-6 hours

After having hearty breakfast, commence your jouney to charming village kagbeni exit point of Upper Mustang Trek cherishing the beauty of majestic Mt. Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Tukuche Peaks. Once reaching in Jomsom, check in to hotel overnight stay in Jomsom.

Day 13: Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara - 15min flight

You are almost in the end of your trek, today you’ll be returning back to Pokhara taking a scenic flight which offers awe-inspiring views of Himalaya ranges. The rest of the day is your own. You can roam around lakeside relishing its serene beauty. And conclude your day in Pokhara staying overnight.

Day 14: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu – 8-9 hours

In the end of your, leaving Pokhara you will take a scenic drive to Kathmandu winding through stunning hills, charming small villages or optional you will fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu. On the way a hearty lunch awaits you. After some hours of drive you will enter into bustling Kathmandu city. Upon arrival check into the hotel. Conclude your day with farewell dinner. And get ready for next adventure!

What is included?

Private car for pick-up and drop-off at airpot
Tourist bus for ground transportation (Kathmandu and Pokhara)
Standard hotel accommodation with complimentary breakfast in Kathmandu for 2 nights and Pokhara for 2 nights
Tea house accommodation during mountain trek with 3 meals provided
Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom and back
Professional guide
Staff provided with food, accommodation, salary, insurance, and transportation
Welcome dinner with cultural program
Special permit fee of USD $50.00 per person per day for
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and TIMS
Professional guide with medical kits
All government taxes and company service charges

What is not included?

Visa fee for Nepal
International airfare and vice versa
Visitors Medical Insurance
Additional amenities’ cost such as hot showers, drinking water, WIFI, laundry, and batteries.
Personal expenses, extra drinks, and lost items
Tips for driver, porter, and guide
All kinds of trekking gear
expenditure on beverages such as water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and hot drinks
Food and beverage expenses in Kathmandu
All not mentioned above

Why us? Is a conscientious question that requires an honest answer of integrity and devotion of the highest standards.

We are what we were from the very beginning: Read on to know us the way we are…

At Unique Adventure International, We do not pretend to be what we are not, ours is a simple ethic, hospitality straight from the heart. When doing trips with us, you will soon find out excellence with us is not just a norm, it’s more a habit.

We have walked the length and breadth of the Himalaya across Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan for over two decades…and still counting, we have enjoyed all of it so much; right to the hilt. We love our mountains and enjoy it so much when we tread its trails with our trekking guests, who also love these mountains as much as us or maybe even more. We have much knowledge of the land and meticulously plan things so our guests get the utmost from their sojourns with us; we know how chaotic it can be for our guests when they organise holidays so far from home…keeping this in mind, we sort out for the long haul and ensure our guests do not only have fun on the way but also get value for money with purposeful journeys. We know and understand that this may probably be a once in a lifetime holiday where you will explore a world not too familiar and its binding for us to make doubly sure you are completely safe throughout the whole course of your expedition when you are in Nepal. With each trip we do with you, we are constantly searching for ways to improve our services so that your expectations of us are met beyond what you could have ever expected on all fronts. We want that you go home with a happy heart and unforgettable memories of an odyssey well done. With Unique Adventure, this is central to all our thoughts when we meet you.

A small business with big ideals…

We are a small outfit with big ideas and we know how complex human nature can be; its only but human to understand your weaknesses and respect your strengths, both of which will be put to the test on the punishing trails of Nepal, but it’s always our mission to understand you and make your journey as calm as possible.

This is the whole reason why we get repeat clients who never seem to get drained with the Himalayas and enjoy the way we guide them throughout the trip…

We know how worrisome it can be when you choose to live life on the edge… so we go the mile to make sure your holidays become more purposeful, more significant…

We do not push you, no matter what the circumstances…

We know you want it slow and easy the moment your plane hits the tarmac in Kathmandu. We understand your instinctive curiosities and ensure you are left alone with enough space to do what we have planned for you – ‘your way’’. You call the shots – it’s your trip – and we provide you enough freedom to make your own decisions in harmony with your group. We help you to become friends and bridge gaps; it’s a matter of pride for us to mention here that we created some of the best friendships where some morphed into lifetime partnerships and this is how things shape out with us when you assemble in our country. And when we are out with you in the country at high elevations, we ensure that our crew leads you in ways comfortable to your body and physical needs.

Our ‘True-to-Life’ practical itineraries…

Our itineraries are meticulously planned and based on the way you see it when your trip commences. Our themes are hands-on and we take you to some difficult but extraordinary places where some would likely pass by. We know you thirst for the unknown and interesting; your search for things that will ignite your emotions and imaginations, seeking for the ‘whys’, how’s and when’s’ into the mountain culture, lifestyles and traditions that you witness in territory you have never been familiar with. We put in a lot of effort to create astonishing one-off experiences which would make great notes for memorable stories to pass down to the coming generations. Each trip we design opens up new avenues to a whole new world that you are not familiar with…and when you discover the answers, it could be a life changing experience you would have never expected.

Trips to match your time frames…

We are flexible in the way we operate our trips based on your exclusive needs. We understand the kind of pressure ridden world you hail from and know you have worked hard for your dream holidays. Our programs are typically designed to give you the most and the best based on your time limitations without any blemishes on the joys that come with your venture.

You could be planning a budget trek or a luxury tour, maybe even a trekking peak; whatever the choice, we give you an extension combo so you have a scintillating mix of history, the outdoors and even jell in a jungle safari into the potpourri so you have varied experiences within the timeframe you’ve chosen. Our website is programmed to give you a host of options to make you smile…

Accommodation: They say Home is where the Hearth is…and yes, the Pillow!!

We are extra wary when arranging your accommodation before you enter our country. We know we’ve got to give you something that’s closest to home. After consulting with you and being twice as sure about what you’re expecting when it comes down to that most important part of life: resting your body and mind at night, we make sure we give you the best accommodating facilities available at a hotel that’s not only comfortable but also a place that is spanking clean with fresh linen and staff who understand your needs and go the length in making sure you feel at home, no matter what the length of your stay with us.

This also includes the sanitized conditions of the food you are served. Even when on the trails, we go the mile to make sure you find a cosy teahouse with no dampness and enough ventilation to keep you healthy and warm with food that’s organic and clean. We know how important the hearth is wherever you stay. With us, be sure that all your personal needs are taken care of well. Ours is the kind of hospitality that comes straight from the heart…

Safety and Security: This is mandatory and imperative…

Our safety and security arrangements for all our inbound guests cross all boundaries; from the moment your jet hits the tarmac at the airport in Kathmandu. This is a process that begins prior to your arrival in Kathmandu, when we design your itinerary based on the program you have chosen. It begins with choosing the right team for you, especially if it’s a trek. We make sure your crew is primed for any contingency when at altitude. We believe in following firm standards with focus on risk assessment knowing mountain climbing is always a risky business despite the excitement it offers. All the planning is done prior to your arrival so you have a carefree, footloose and fancy free journey, without any hassles.

We always advise our guests to go through medical routines in their home countries before embarking on trips above 3000m. We also encourage our guests to get insured before coming to Nepal.

Your entire stay in Nepal is monitored from day one, especially when you are on the mountains. We take nothing for granted, nature can be a monster when least expected. When booking your trip through ‘Unique Adventure, you are not just a client – you are more than all that - you are a parent, a brother/sister, a close colleague – in a word – ‘family’; and all our safety precautions and personalized services are purely based on this relationship.

We Respect and Care for the local folks and Love the Environment we operate in…

We are conscious in the importance of preserving the natural beauty and culture of Nepal, so that future visitors can also enjoy the wonders of this beautiful but fragile environment. We are sensitive and devoted to responsible travel with minimum impact on the environment and local communities. The planet is large enough for everyone to explore and it’s the curiosity of human nature to explore and discover the unknown. We are always careful about the ecosystems that surround us when we are on the mountains, but we don’t let this spoil the spirit for adventure. We seek to enjoy in ways beneficial to others and wish to respect this beauty that God created for us to appreciate; and we want to keep it that way. Equally important, we instruct our crew and travellers to be aware of the values of responsible travel, by: respecting people, cultures and local environments, in creating goodwill; with cross-cultural sharing and experiences; and helping make sustainable development practical, where we put in efforts to give back more than we take.

Our Trekking crews are Principal to the Company…we’re Family…

One paramount issue for trekking companies in Nepal are employees directly connected to guests when trekking in the Himalayas and this is key to any trip conducted anywhere on the Himalayas. Our staffs in general receive fixed monthly salaries and our trekking crews get special rates as defined by the Ministry of Labour in consultation with the Ministry of Tourism - Government of Nepal.

This also includes the provision of Social Security for mountain workers as per government directives. In addition to this, we also provide climbing training to new comers listed on our payroll. All our seasoned guides are well trained in the use and application of First Aid in the event of any unexpected injuries that may occur in the course of the journey when at altitude.

Field Employees are constantly upgraded for personal development, delivered via courses in English, about nature, history, and ongoing training as mountain guides with techniques based on safety precautions...along with this, our mountain crews are insured and covered against any eventualities. The insurance package covers the cost of health care if injured or sick and provides a lifetime gratuity if any employee is physically disabled. We treat our employees as valuable assets. We know their security and happiness is vital to ensure yours throughout your stay in Nepal…

Innovation: We are constantly juggling new Products…

Ours is a constant search for new trails in the great wilderness. We’re always innovating new areas for travel within and around the city limits and out on the mountains. Nepal has so much to offer in her ancient heritage cities and within the vast expanse of her Himalayas. We ceaselessly research new products in order to give our old clients new thrills; this has always been part of our company’s policies for giving more value for money. We know that many of our guests rarely get time to travel and when they do, they’d sure like to make the best of it; besides Nepal, we even cut across borders giving our guests unbelievable historical and cultural highlights of Tibet, Bhutan and India. We even design divine spiritual tours for the holy who’d sure like to hike down footsteps of ancient ancestors along the Mount Kailash Mountains so that they could come face-to-face with the gods. You even get opportunities to stroll down the cobbled stone Squares of Patan and Bhaktapur and slip into the Forbidden Temple of Pashupatinath. Beyond the spiritual of Kailash in Tibet, our programs take you to the highest region on earth, at an elevation of 4,900 meters (16,000 ft). Very much noted as the ‘roof of the world’, Tibet is symbolic of a mesmerizing culture seeped in spirituality and nature. From superb temples and tranquil monasteries to the Yangtze River and adorable Pandas, our products are molded in a way that ensures you experience a whole new world of amazing discoveries that tells you about God’s gift of a wonderful planet we all live in.

‘Please visit our highly informative website for some of the most extensive information on some of the most stimulating holidays ever conceived’. Get friendly with us on: www.uniquetreks.com

We give you Mountain Yoga

The Mountain Yoga we offer on the trail is an earthy, friendly and unassuming space, dedicated to healing and transformation as your mind battles the vagaries of nature while on your journey in the wild. When you decide to holiday on the mountains; it’s like a calling into the high and wild to experience Mother Nature at a higher level and to explore her true beauty. But there’s another calling that wants you to find release from your inner demons. It might be seen as the feeling that there has to be more to life than our day-to-day routines in the machine of modern day society. As you go higher above the tree-lines, our certified yoga guides give you the kind of alignment helpful to your body’s needs when adjusting to the thin air at altitude. They are compassionate, knowledgeable and guide you with postures and breathing exercises that promote physical fitness at higher elevations, keeping the mind calmer, making your self-awareness more acute, and help you get more balanced, while preventing you from having any problems with altitude mountain sickness. Yoga is an ancient practice known for thousands of years to clean out even the deepest mental grooves and rigid mindsets which may hamper your trip and spoil the fun on your trek.

We are the only adventure company in Nepal offering our guests mountain yoga which enhances hassle free trips and keeps our guests safe from common altitude problems.

Our Success Ratio…

We’ve been through it all – the ups and downs have been full and plenty. The series of earthquakes of 2015 affected us bitterly; however, we kept the faith. We knew this was nature at its best and worst. We do not take anything for granted when it’s a tryst with Mother Nature, especially in the wilderness above the tree-lines. We knew we would still need these mountains more than they need us...These mountains teach us so much about life. It was Almighty God that created these mountains with all its stark beauty, but then a natural calamity can be lurking somewhere around the bend, and we must always be aware of the environment - and this comes with respect, consciousness and faith.

Despite the hurdles and hiccups, our Success Ratio has been over 98%, why? Because experience has taught us the hard way to Love God, respect the mountains, to learn from our mistakes, and to always, at all times, be Honest with our Guests…and let God do the rest.

Choose an appropriate backpack with a 30- to 40-kg capacity.

A warm, waterproof, and layered jacket
A warm, waterproof and flexible trekking pants
Thermal pants: Take a couple of sets of thin, swiftly drying trousers
A full-sleeved shirt made of cotton and wool: Carry a few flexible shirts so you can wear them
Usual undergarments
Gloves
A sun hat
Waterproof hiking boots
Shoes
Trekking socks
UV protective Eyewear
Trekking sticks
A flashlight
Medical kits

1: Where is Upper Mustang?

Upper Mustang is a region located in the Mustang district of Gandaki Pradesh, in northern Nepal, near the border with Tibet, China.

2: How to get to Upper Mustang, Nepal?

To reach Upper Mustang, one can take a flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, or travel overland by driving through Kusma and Beni. It is also possible to trek or drive to the region.

3: What are the things to do in Mustang, Nepal?

The main activities in Upper Mustang include trekking, taking guided tours, and sightseeing to explore the region's unique culture and landscapes.

4: Why is Upper Mustang restricted?

Upper Mustang was a restricted area for foreigners until 1992. Even now, the Nepalese government has controls in place to preserve the region's strategic location, unique nature, and cultural heritage in its authentic form.

5: How hard is the Upper Mustang trek?

The Upper Mustang trek is considered a moderate trekking experience, and anyone with a reasonable level of physical fitness can undertake it.

6: How long is the Upper Mustang trek?

The duration of the Upper Mustang trek can vary, ranging from a minimum of 10 days to a maximum of 18 days, depending on the specific route and the level of exploration desired.

7: How much does the Upper Mustang trekking permit cost?

The trekking permit for Upper Mustang costs USD 500 for the first 10 days, and an additional USD 50 per person per day for any extended stay beyond 10 days.

8: How to get the Upper Mustang permit?

The restricted area trekking permit for Upper Mustang is issued by the Immigration Office of the Government of Nepal, either in Kathmandu or Pokhara. This process is typically facilitated through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.

9: When is the best time to visit Upper Mustang?

The weather conditions in Upper Mustang are generally favorable from March to November. However, the months of May, October, and August are considered the most recommended times to visit the region, offering the best trekking experience.

10: Do I need a guide for the Upper Mustang trek and tours?

Yes, it is mandatory to have a guide when visiting Upper Mustang, as it is a controlled area, and entry is not permitted without a guide and the necessary permits.

11: What type of accommodation is available in Upper Mustang?

The accommodation in Upper Mustang primarily consists of basic tea houses or lodges along the trekking route. These lodges offer common dining areas and private rooms with two beds. While sheets and pillows are provided, it is advisable to carry a sleeping bag due to the colder temperatures at higher altitudes. Additionally, there are a few luxury hotels or resorts available in some areas, although they can be quite expensive compared to the tea houses.

12: What is the food like on the Upper Mustang trek?

During the Upper Mustang trek, trekkers are provided with three full meals a day, chosen from a menu at the tea houses along the route. The food is typically homemade and of good quality. The tea houses also offer a variety of Western cuisine options.

13: What is the height of Upper Mustang?

Upper Mustang is a scenic and isolated region, attracting tourists with its unique landscapes and cultural heritage. The highest altitude reached during the Upper Mustang trek is Lo Manthang, which stands at an elevation of 3,840 meters (12,598 feet) above sea level. Nestled behind the spectacular Himalayan ranges, Upper Mustang offers a truly unique trekking experience.

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USD 2,100