Authentic Tibetan Buddhist Culture & Remote Himalayan Trails
Tucked behind the legendary Himalayan peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, the forbidden kingdom of Lo was isolated for centuries. This region of Nepal, now called Mustang, is the off-the-beaten-track getaway of your dreams. Our trek journeys through this remote land, where vast monasteries stand guard over pocket-sized villages and every ridge offers another arresting vista. With two days in the walled city of Lo Manthang, nearly untouched since the 14th century, you'll be one of the few to discover this magnificent, well-preserved treasure. Enjoy comfortable camps in the heart of Mustang and a five-star hotel experience in Kathmandu.
Tucked behind the legendary Himalayan peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, the forbidden kingdom of Lo was isolated for centuries. This region of Nepal, now called Mustang, is the off-the-beaten-track getaway of your dreams. Our trek journeys through this remote land, where vast monasteries stand guard over pocket-sized villages and every ridge offers another arresting vista. With two days in the walled city of Lo Manthang, nearly untouched since the 14th century, you'll be one of the few to discover this magnificent, well-preserved treasure. Enjoy comfortable camps in the heart of Mustang and a five-star hotel experience in Kathmandu.
Discover a long-isolated feudal kingdom, now accessible only by permit, on this Himalayan expedition
[Description] => Discover a long-isolated feudal kingdom, now accessible only by permit, on this Himalayan expedition
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Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture in a land of vast monasteries and remote villages, and the superior Nepal camping experience versus basic mountain lodges
[Description] => Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture in a land of vast monasteries and remote villages
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Trek the northern Himalaya's spectacular summits and valleys with MT Sobek's top mountaineering experts
Welcome to Kathmandu! Meet your MT Sobek representative and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, your trip guide will hold a short briefing and orientation, including information on trekking and other important information. In the evening we will gather for a welcome dinner.
Accommodation: Yak and Yeti Hotel
Meals: Dinner
Culture in Kathmandu, Flight to Pokhara
Day 2
Enjoy a morning tour of the Pashupatinath Hindu temple complex on the Bagmati River and Bodhnath's enormous Buddhist stupa - the largest in Asia and the center of Tibetan Buddhist culture in the UNESCO-listed Kathmandu Valley. Later in the afternoon, transfer to the airport and fly to Pokhara, a lively town set beside Phewa Lake with fantastic views of the Annapurna Range.
Accommodation: Temple Tree Resort and Spa
Transportation: 30-minute flight
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Fly to Jomsom and Drive to Ghemi
Day 3
Board a flight from Pokhara to Jomsom (8,922') and embark on a Jeep ride to the village of Ghemi along the rocky trails of the Kali Gandaki River. At Kagbeni village, cross the checkpoint and enter the forbidden kingdom of Mustang. Drive through the villages of beautiful red, yellow, and brown sandstone pillars, cross famed Chele La Pass (12,251'), and descend to the village of Samar (12,005') with its views of the Annapurna. Continue ever higher over passes and through tiny settlements before descending to camp in the village of Ghemi.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Mustang
Transportation: 5-hour private Jeep transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike to Ghar Gompa
Day 4
From Ghemi, follow the trail across the valley, across a suspension bridge over the Dhakmar Chu River, then past the most impressive and longest stretch of mani wall (boulders inscribed with carved Buddhist prayers) in Upper Mustang. Descend to the secluded village of Dhakmar, situated under magnificent red sandstone cliffs dotted with cave openings. Climb up a rocky gully to Muila pass and your first view of famous Ghar Gompa, an eighth-century monastery.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Mustang
Activity: 5-6 hours/6.5 miles hiking with 2,165' elevation gain & 725' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Descend to Lo Manthang
Day 5
Depart Ghar Gompa and, after crossing several valleys, reach the Chago La pass - at 14,038', it's the highest pass on the trek through Mustang. After a long, gradual descent, you finally get your first view of the walled city of Lo Manthang in the distance, set amongst fields and poplar trees. From here, a steady downhill leads you to camp.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Mustang
Activity: 5-6 hours/5.5 miles hiking with 1,085' elevation gain & 1,595' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy Lo Manthang
Day 6
Rest your legs and tour Lo Manthang, starting with its two 15th-century monasteries, Thubchen Gompa and Champa Gompa. Atmospheric with burning incense, flickering yak-butter lamps, Buddhist murals, intricate mandalas, and chanting monks, entering these buildings - so remote they've been untouched by modernity for centuries - is a sensorial and spiritual experience. A team of conservation architects has gently restored both monasteries with funding provided by the American Himalayan Foundation. Also here, visit the monastic school at Choede Gompa, the only monastery in Lo Manthang that houses monks.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Mustang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart Lo Manthang for Yara
Day 7
Leaving Lo Manthang, the trail leads south towards Charang, climbs a pass overlooking Lo Manthang, and then heads down toward the Kali Gandaki Gorge. The final section of the dry, dusty trail drops sharply to the village of Dhi, marked by a patchwork of fertile fields and trees. After a well-deserved break at Dhi, hike up to the village of Yara. Just before reaching Yara, behold an incredible series of 300-foot-high, wind-scoured cliffs resembling giant organ pipes. The cliffs are dotted with numerous cave openings - one of Upper Mustang's most spectacular sights!
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Mustang
Activity: 7-8 hours/10 miles hiking with 1,930' elevation gain & 2,600' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day Trip to Luri Gompa
Day 8
Take an excursion from Yara to Luri Gompa, one of the world's few remaining cave monasteries. Luri is also the most important in Upper Mustang, as it is one of the only monasteries in the region belonging to the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery comprises a series of interconnected chapels covering various levels, all carved out of the cliff. The inner room contains a large chorten painted with deities. Kashmiri-style paintings of exquisite flowers, deities, and various figures of Indian origin adorn the dome-shaped roof and the west wall.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Mustang
Activity: 5-6 hours/6.5 miles hiking with 1,330' elevation gain & loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike to Tangge
Day 9
From Yara, the trail leads south to Dhechyang Khola, winding steeply uphill before opening to magnificent views of landscape below. Continue downhill into the village of Tangge, a small hamlet whose homes form a fort nestled below cliffs eroded into massive columns. The view of the settlement, with its groups of chortens and mani walls of various shapes and sizes, is simply stunning! Tonight's camp is constructed in a walled compound to protect guests from the dry Mustang winds.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Mustang
Activity: 7-8 hours/10 miles hiking with 2,660' elevation gain & 3,600' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cross Rivers to Behold Dhaulagiri
Day 10
On your way out of Tangge, enjoy an atmospheric walk through town to the trail leading down to the Tangge Khola, where you'll cross a wooden bridge. Hike above the village, then descend to the wide, rocky Yak Khola plain. After another river crossing, ascend steeply as the horizon widens between Charang, Lo Manthang, and Nepal's northern border. From the prayer flag-adorned summit of Pha, revel in your first awe-inspiring view of Dhaulagiri. Tonight, camp near the only water source on this part of the trek.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Mustang
Activity: 5-6 hours/6 miles hiking with 3,200' elevation gain & 660' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey on to Jomsom
Day 11
Today the trail winds uphill, opening to exceptional views of the entire Mustang Valley. Admire them, but then refocus on the trail, which is narrow and, on one side, drops 3,000 feet! Soon the trail veers away from the rim and reveals the extraordinary Kali Gandaki Valley, with myriad peaks surrounding the famous Thorang La pass (17,764'). Begin your descent of a steep, rough trail that leads to Chhuksang where our jeep will be waiting for us. From Chhuksang transfer back to Jomsom enjoying wonderful views of Mt. Nilgiris (23,166'). After many nights of camping, enjoy a night at a cozy guesthouse.
Accommodation: Om Guesthouse-Jomsom
Activity: 6-7 hours/9.5 miles hiking with 710' elevation gain & 4,280' elevation loss
Transportation: 2-hour Jeep transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Return to Kathmandu
Day 12
Bid farewell to the Upper Mustang as you fly from Jomsom to Kathmandu via Pokhara. If weather affects your flight (always possible in Nepal), you'll spend another day in Jomsom. Flights in and out of Jomsom are commonly delayed or cancelled due to unpredictable weather. If delayed, all meals at Jomsom are included while you wait. An extra day at the end of the trek ensures connections to your homeward-bound flight. Without delays, spend the day exploring in Kathmandu!
Begin today in Kathmandu Valley with a morning tour of Bhaktapur, an enchanting medieval Nepalese town. A highlight is Durbar Square, with its temples, ancient palace ruins, and exquisite Sun Dhoka - a gilded gate crafted in 1753. This afternoon you're free to roam, relax, or do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Kathmandu on your own. In the evening, join the group for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Yak and Yeti Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart for Home
Day 14
After breakfast, transfer from your hotel to the airport and depart Kathmandu on your homeward-bound flight. Please note that most flights require an overnight en route to your destination.
MT Sobek is a legendary outfitter in Nepal, pioneering unique and exploratory adventures for nearly 50 years.
Our expert MT Sobek Mustang guide Sanjeev Chhetri has been leading treks in the Upper Mustang since 1992.
Only MT Sobek combines our tenured trekking guide with an architectural restoration expert-both with years of experience in Mustang-for a winning combination.
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Sanjeev C.
Sanjeev is a graduate of Delhi University, India, and has been leading treks in Nepal, Tibet, India, and the Alps since 1990. He is a top MT Sobek guide on many of our most popular Himalayan adventures, and is very knowledgeable of the cultures, religions, and traditions of each region. Sanjeev has a deep affection for Mustang (he got married in Lo Manthang) and recommends it for the absence of trekkers, stunning scenery, and authentic Tibetan culture. Sanjeev loves being outdoors and meeting people from different walks of life. He lives with wife and son in Kathmandu.
Welcome to Kathmandu! Meet your MT Sobek representative and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, your trip guide will hold a short briefing and orientation, including information on trekking and other important information. In the evening we will gather for a welcome dinner.
Enjoy a morning tour of the Pashupatinath Hindu temple complex on the Bagmati River and Bodhnath\'s enormous Buddhist stupa - the largest in Asia and the center of Tibetan Buddhist culture in the UNESCO-listed Kathmandu Valley. Later in the afternoon, transfer to the airport and fly to Pokhara, a lively town set beside Phewa Lake with fantastic views of the Annapurna Range.
Board a flight from Pokhara to Jomsom (8,922\') and embark on a Jeep ride to the village of Ghemi along the rocky trails of the Kali Gandaki River. At Kagbeni village, cross the checkpoint and enter the forbidden kingdom of Mustang. Drive through the villages of beautiful red, yellow, and brown sandstone pillars, cross famed Chele La Pass (12,251\'), and descend to the village of Samar (12,005\') with its views of the Annapurna. Continue ever higher over passes and through tiny settlements before descending to camp in the village of Ghemi.
From Ghemi, follow the trail across the valley, across a suspension bridge over the Dhakmar Chu River, then past the most impressive and longest stretch of mani wall (boulders inscribed with carved Buddhist prayers) in Upper Mustang. Descend to the secluded village of Dhakmar, situated under magnificent red sandstone cliffs dotted with cave openings. Climb up a rocky gully to Muila pass and your first view of famous Ghar Gompa, an eighth-century monastery.
Depart Ghar Gompa and, after crossing several valleys, reach the Chago La pass - at 14,038\', it\'s the highest pass on the trek through Mustang. After a long, gradual descent, you finally get your first view of the walled city of Lo Manthang in the distance, set amongst fields and poplar trees. From here, a steady downhill leads you to camp.
Rest your legs and tour Lo Manthang, starting with its two 15th-century monasteries, Thubchen Gompa and Champa Gompa. Atmospheric with burning incense, flickering yak-butter lamps, Buddhist murals, intricate mandalas, and chanting monks, entering these buildings - so remote they\'ve been untouched by modernity for centuries - is a sensorial and spiritual experience. A team of conservation architects has gently restored both monasteries with funding provided by the American Himalayan Foundation. Also here, visit the monastic school at Choede Gompa, the only monastery in Lo Manthang that houses monks.
Leaving Lo Manthang, the trail leads south towards Charang, climbs a pass overlooking Lo Manthang, and then heads down toward the Kali Gandaki Gorge. The final section of the dry, dusty trail drops sharply to the village of Dhi, marked by a patchwork of fertile fields and trees. After a well-deserved break at Dhi, hike up to the village of Yara. Just before reaching Yara, behold an incredible series of 300-foot-high, wind-scoured cliffs resembling giant organ pipes. The cliffs are dotted with numerous cave openings - one of Upper Mustang\'s most spectacular sights!
Take an excursion from Yara to Luri Gompa, one of the world\'s few remaining cave monasteries. Luri is also the most important in Upper Mustang, as it is one of the only monasteries in the region belonging to the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery comprises a series of interconnected chapels covering various levels, all carved out of the cliff. The inner room contains a large chorten painted with deities. Kashmiri-style paintings of exquisite flowers, deities, and various figures of Indian origin adorn the dome-shaped roof and the west wall.
From Yara, the trail leads south to Dhechyang Khola, winding steeply uphill before opening to magnificent views of landscape below. Continue downhill into the village of Tangge, a small hamlet whose homes form a fort nestled below cliffs eroded into massive columns. The view of the settlement, with its groups of chortens and mani walls of various shapes and sizes, is simply stunning! Tonight\'s camp is constructed in a walled compound to protect guests from the dry Mustang winds.
On your way out of Tangge, enjoy an atmospheric walk through town to the trail leading down to the Tangge Khola, where you\'ll cross a wooden bridge. Hike above the village, then descend to the wide, rocky Yak Khola plain. After another river crossing, ascend steeply as the horizon widens between Charang, Lo Manthang, and Nepal\'s northern border. From the prayer flag-adorned summit of Pha, revel in your first awe-inspiring view of Dhaulagiri. Tonight, camp near the only water source on this part of the trek.
Today the trail winds uphill, opening to exceptional views of the entire Mustang Valley. Admire them, but then refocus on the trail, which is narrow and, on one side, drops 3,000 feet! Soon the trail veers away from the rim and reveals the extraordinary Kali Gandaki Valley, with myriad peaks surrounding the famous Thorang La pass (17,764\'). Begin your descent of a steep, rough trail that leads to Chhuksang where our jeep will be waiting for us. From Chhuksang transfer back to Jomsom enjoying wonderful views of Mt. Nilgiris (23,166\'). After many nights of camping, enjoy a night at a cozy guesthouse.
Bid farewell to the Upper Mustang as you fly from Jomsom to Kathmandu via Pokhara. If weather affects your flight (always possible in Nepal), you\'ll spend another day in Jomsom. Flights in and out of Jomsom are commonly delayed or cancelled due to unpredictable weather. If delayed, all meals at Jomsom are included while you wait. An extra day at the end of the trek ensures connections to your homeward-bound flight. Without delays, spend the day exploring in Kathmandu!
Begin today in Kathmandu Valley with a morning tour of Bhaktapur, an enchanting medieval Nepalese town. A highlight is Durbar Square, with its temples, ancient palace ruins, and exquisite Sun Dhoka - a gilded gate crafted in 1753. This afternoon you\'re free to roam, relax, or do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Kathmandu on your own. In the evening, join the group for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
After breakfast, transfer from your hotel to the airport and depart Kathmandu on your homeward-bound flight. Please note that most flights require an overnight en route to your destination.
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[ActivityHighlight] => You will be hiking five to seven hours and 4.5-10 miles a day, up and down mountain trails that are steep and rocky, and at elevations between 8,500 and 14,000 feet. You need to be in excellent health and top physical condition to enjoy your trek.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 4. You will be hiking five to seven hours and 4.5-10 miles a day, up and down mountain trails that are steep and rocky, and at elevations between 8,500 and 14,000 feet. You need to be in excellent health and top physical condition to enjoy your trek. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 4
5-6 hours/6.5 miles hiking with 2,165' elevation gain & 725' elevation loss
Day 5
5-6 hours/5.5 miles hiking with 1,085' elevation gain & 1,595' elevation loss
Day 7
7-8 hours/10 miles hiking with 1,930' elevation gain & 2,600' elevation loss
Day 8
5-6 hours/6.5 miles hiking with 1,330' elevation gain & loss
Day 9
7-8 hours/10 miles hiking with 2,660' elevation gain & 3,600' elevation loss
Day 10
5-6 hours/6 miles hiking with 3,200' elevation gain & 660' elevation loss
Day 11
6-7 hours/9.5 miles hiking with 710' elevation gain & 4,280' elevation loss
Accommodations
Eight nights camping, one night at a comfortable guesthouse and four nights at hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
A five-star oasis in the heart of Kathmandu, the Yak & Yeti is the perfect blend of contemporary international standards and time-honored Nepali tradition. Guests will find refuge among antique fountains, gilded temples, and emerald gardens while enjoying a state-of-the-art gymnasium, spa features, shopping arcades, atrium, tennis courts, and swimming pools.
While on trek we will be camping in very comfortable and sturdy Mountain Hardware three man tents. Though they are designed to accommodate three people we will not put more than two in a tent. There is a vestibule at the front of the tent where you can store your hiking boots and trekking poles. We also provide a 6 foot 1 inch long and 2 feet 1 inch wide, fabric covered foam sleeping pad. We will also set up a toilet tent with toilet seat in each of our camps.
Om's Home is a simple traditional-style Nepalese inn, located in the heart of Jomsom and surrounded by the soaring peaks of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri. Rooms are comfortable and boast thick comforters and clean, crisp sheets — perfect for unwinding after a day's trek. The inn's restaurant serves fresh Tibetan bread and homemade soups, and there are plenty of charming areas to lounge in (Wi-Fi is available in the lobby).
Surrounded by the peaks of the Annapurna Mountain range, the Temple Tree Resort & Spa is a boutique hotel designed to combine modern amenities with the local Nepalese Himalayan charm. Relax and unwind at the spa featuring massages, scrubs and a sauna. The two story cottage rooms offer a private veranda overlooking the garden courtyard, Wi-Fi and LED TV.
Weather
Daytime temperatures: 50°F - 85°F. Night time temperatures 20°F - 35°F. High winds and dust are common. Rain or snow possible.
May
Sep
Jomsom
High
Low
High
Low
Jomsom
57
30
59
37
Kathmandu
High
Low
High
Low
Kathmandu
84
61
82
65
FAQs
How can I get to Kathmandu from the US?
There are no direct flights from the USA to Kathmandu. However, there are many airlines that offer connecting flights through major hubs in Asia, such as:
nNew York City (JFK): Air India, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Etihad Airways
nLos Angeles (LAX): Air India, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Singapore Airlines
nChicago (ORD): Air India, Turkish Airlines, Etihad Airways
nSan Francisco (SFO): Air India, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines
nHouston (IAH): Air India, Emirates
nAtlanta (ATL): Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines
nThe flight time from the USA to Kathmandu will vary depending on the hub you transit through, but it will typically take around 19-21 hours.
Do I need a visa for Nepal?
Yes, and you can get a 15-day visa on arrival for $25.
Do I need to bring a sleeping bag for this trip?
Yes, you will need to bring a medium-weight, down or fiberfill sleeping bag rated from -5°F to 10°F.
Will I have cell coverage on this trip?
It's best not to count on it as coverage is spotty.
Are there any luggage weight restrictions on the flight from Pokhara to Jomsom?
Yes. Luggage is restricted to 15 kg/33 lb per person-including checked and hand-carry luggage. It's not possible to pay for overweight luggage.
What is the Upper Mustang Permit Fee?
The Nepalese government charges $530 per person to trek in the Upper Mustang restricted area. This must be paid upon arrival in Kathmandu in US dollars. This cost also includes the $30 fee for the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is used in conservation efforts.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
"I just completed the amazing Mystical Mustang trek with the best guides imaginable. Sanjeev Chhetri and Sirish Bhatt provided extraordinary insight into the area."
Dick S. MT Sobek Guest, Nepal Mystical Mustang Trek
"This was the trip of a lifetime! A spectacular, active, and challenging trek combined with great scenery, amazing monasteries, and insight into the changing Buddhist culture of Upper Mustang. I would absolutely recommend MT Sobek!"
Sandy S. MT Sobek Guest, Nepal Mystical Mustang Trek