• Duration 18 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate

    The moderate grade includes a one-week to fifteen-day itinerary. It can reach up to 4000-5000 meter altitude range, but the trails will be moderate (neither easy nor tough).

  • Country Nepal
  • Maximum Altitude 4,280 m
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Activities Trekking

The Kingdom of Mustang preserves some of the last vestiges of traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture. Situated on the border of Nepal and China (Tibet), it is open to only a few select trekking groups each season. The trek follows established trails through substantial villages that once served a thriving trade route between Nepal and Tibet. These whitewashed settlements, set amid fields of barley and home to impressive chortens and simple monasteries, reflect the abiding Buddhist culture. The terrain is striking, a semi-arid desert with deep ravines and rock shelves, flanked by snowy peaks. A highlight is the visit to Lo Manthang where the King of Mustang reigns over his tiny kingdom.

Highlights

  • Trekking to Mustang is a magical, lifetime expedition that will change your life
  • It is an offbeat, adventurous trek ideal for fit individuals
  • Previous trekking expertise is not mandatory, but having one will surely make the journey much more manageable
  • It is a challenging trek that navigates steep, rocky uphill and downhill trails, gorges, and mountain passes
  • On the way, you will witness arid landscapes, towering cliffs, unique huge rocks, canyons, and snow-capped mountains
  • Spend nights in remote villages where you will meet with the locals of Upper Mustang and get to see their lifestyle
  • The trail has many stupas, chortens, mani walls, prayer flags, and monasteries that are thousands of years old
  • Explore the last forbidden kingdom, Lo Manthang
  • Explore the sky caves and Chumsi Cave monastery
  • Get to see rich Tibetan Buddhist cultural heritage
  • Take a beautiful drive Pokhara-Kagbeni and Muktinath-Pokhara.
  • Take a scenic flight between Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Why will you love the Mustang trekking in Nepal?

The Mustang trekking offers a fantastic break from your modern life and basically takes you back in time, where everything seems to stop in time. Your adventurous heart will love the experience this trek presents. Not only that, but you will also dive deep into the daily life of mountain people and experience their traditions.

The mesmerizing trans-Himalayan landscapes, sky caves, and ancient monasteries will leave you in awe. You will be traveling close to the Tibetan border while exploring ancient trade routes. Likewise, the traditional mud houses, lovely apple orchards, and narrow alleys will tell stories of their own.

If you do not prefer trekking or can’t walk long hours because of health issues, you can do the Upper Mustang Overland (jeep) tour, which is impossible in other trekking regions in Nepal.

What is it like doing the Mustang trekking?

Mustang trekking has always been considered an exclusive experience in the Himalayas. It is a restricted area in Nepal that demands expensive permits and prohibits solo trekking. The Upper Mustang was forbidden to enter for a very long time, and because of that, the region has independently evolved in its own way.

In 1992, the Nepal government lifted the travel ban and opened the region to travelers from around the world with strict rules and regulations. Unlike the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit- the very famous trekking routes in Nepal, the Upper Mustang sees way fewer trekkers. So, the trail is not crowded and unspoiled. If you are in search of an isolated and peaceful trek in Nepal, the Upper Mustang trek 18 days is an excellent option.

The Mustang is an old Buddhist kingdom shrouded in mysteries and deeply rooted in ancient beliefs and practices. Lo Manthang (3,840 m) is the capital of Upper Mustang and is known as the walled city. It is the highest settlement on this trek, and to reach here, you will traverse canyons and sand deserts.

You will witness beautiful arid landscapes and mountain views of Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Tukuche Peak (6,920 m/22,703 ft), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m/23,406 ft), etc. Overall, the Upper Mustang trek covers around 145 km (90 miles) from the start to the end of the journey.

How to prepare for the Mustang trekking 18 days?

The Upper Mustang trek is Moderate. It involves 6 hours of walking on average. You will be trekking on steep and rugged trails, which requires good fitness and stamina. So, overall, the trekkers have to be fit to do the Upper Mustang trekking in Nepal.

If you have never trekked before or are not a physically active individual, you must train your body and mind before the trek starts. You can prepare for the journey by walking 4 to 5 hours a day and participating in cardiovascular activities such as running, cycling, swimming, and hiking.

Travel insurance for the Mustang trekking

To do the Mustang trekking, you must buy travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation in the Himalayas. Buy the travel insurance in your country and bring the documents with you. You can also extend your coverage to medical bills, flight cancellation, personal belongings loss/damage, etc.

As per the restricted area rule in Nepal, travel insurance is mandatory. The Upper Mustang is a remote area. There are no proper health facilities in the region, and some that are available are located quite far from one village to another. So, in the event of any medical distress, natural calamity, etc, we have to use helicopter evacuation.

The best time to trek in the Mustang region

The best time to do the Mustang trekking is the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These two seasons boast the best weather and moderate climate for trekking. The temperature ranges between 5°C to 20°C with clear, bright days and cold mornings and nights.

Spring and autumn are also the busiest times for Upper Mustang trekking. You will see many other trekkers in the region. Likewise, the mountain views are stunning. The Upper Mustang trek is also possible during the summer/monsoon season (June to August).

Between June and August, you may face bad weather and rainfall in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and the lower Mustang region. However, once you enter the Upper Mustang, there will be no trace of rain or bad trails. Upper Mustang is a rainshadow area, so rain does not fall here. Winter trekking is also possible if you can handle the cold.

Mustang trekking packing

Below, we have made a comprehensive packing guideline for the Upper Mustang trek. Follow the list and pack accordingly. If you are not a seasoned trekker or not planning to do frequent treks, you can rent expensive trekking clothes and gear in Kathmandu at a fraction of cost.

Clothing: Underwear, base layer, thermal layer, windproof/waterproof outer layer, fleece jacket, down jacket, dry towel, socks, gloves, beanie, trekking boots, casual shoes/slippers, etc

Gear: Trekking poles, daypack, duffel bag (Adventure Treks Nepal will provide), map, sleeping bag, torch, adapter, spare batteries, camera, cell phone, etc

Toiletries and first aid: Wet tissues, deodorant, SPF, lip balm, moisturizer, toilet paper, soap, toothpaste/brush, band-aid, insect repellent, ointment, crack bandage, general medicines, etc

Miscellaneous: Cash, travel insurance, passport, travel visa, passport-sized photos, permits, snacks, journal & pen, etc

Why do the Mustang trekking with the Adventure Treks Nepal?

We, Adventure Treks Nepal, offer the best Mustang trekking package at an affordable cost. Our professional and expert guide will lead you through the mountains, ensuring your safety and satisfaction. You will get top-notch service with us, and there will be no hidden costs.

Similarly, customize the Upper Mustang trek itinerary as per your requirements. You can curate the package as per your budget as well. Our team will help you with all of your needs. Contact us today to book your spot on the Mustang trekking.

We provide the Mustang trekking cost and service and pair you with a native guide and porter. Because we will take care of all the logistics, you can enjoy your time in the mountains freely

Itinerary
Trip Plan
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Once you arrive at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu you will be transferred to the hotel by a representative of Adventure Treks Nepal who will be waiting for your arrival outside the airport. Depending on time of arrival a briefing session will be conducted once you have freshened up. Please let us know if there is anything you would like to do while you are in Nepal.

  • Max Altitude: 1,338m
  • Meals: Null
  • Accommodation: Hotel

After  breakfast at Hotel we proced to full day sightseeing including Visit 2000 years old Buddhist shrine Swyambhunath, situated on the top of the hill west of the city the most popular and instantly recognizable symbols of Nepal. The temple is colloquially known as the "Monkey Temple". There are many small buildings and shrines down the hillside behind Swayambhunath. Explore the colorful Kathmandu Durbar Square - The Old Royal Palace of Kathmandu, Temple of living goddess Kumari, the Jagannath temple, 17th century temple known for colorfully painted erotic carvings, Kasthmandap temple a three story temple built from a single tree in 12th century. 

We continue to  Visit Pashupatinath temple one of the most sacred Hindu shrine in the World. The holy river Bagmati and the burning ghats and also visit one of the oldest and biggest Stupa of Boudhanath. Overnight in Hotel. (Breakfast Included).

 

  • Max Altitude: 1,338m
  • Meals: Breakfast Only
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 6-7 Hours
  • Max Altitude: 970 m
  • Meals: Breakfast Only
  • Max Altitude: 2,804 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Duration: 7–9 Hours
  • Distance: 155 km
  • Max Altitude: 3,050 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Duration: 5-6 hours
  • Distance: 13 km
  • Max Altitude: 3,570 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Duration: 5-6 hours
  • Distance: 19 km
  • Max Altitude: 3,060 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Duration: 7-8 hours
  • Distance: 16 km
  • Max Altitude: 3,840 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Duration: 12 km
  • Distance: 4-5 hours
  • Max Altitude: 3,930 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Duration: 6-8 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max Altitude: 4,280 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Duration: 17 km
  • Distance: 6-7 hours
  • Max Altitude: 3,800 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Duration: 6-7 hours
  • Distance: 12-14 km
  • Max Altitude: 2,980 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 11-12 km
  • Max Altitude: 3,802 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Duration: 15-18 km
  • Distance: 7 hours
  • Max Altitude: 920 m
  • Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
  • Duration: 7–9 Hour
  • Distance: 170 km
  • Max Altitude: 1,338m
  • Meals: B

On this day you will have time to do anything in Kathmandu Valley. There are many tourists’ attractions around Kathmandu like Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square which you can visit. You can walk around streets of Thamel for last minute shopping and to have good food. We are happy to offer you some recommendations.

  • Max Altitude: 1,338m
  • Meals: B

You will be dropped to the Tribhuwan International airport by a representative from Adventure Treks Nepal according to your flight time. Fly back home with memories that last lifetime. (Check in time before 3 hours from the departure time.

  • Meals: B
  • Duration: 30-45 Minutes
  • Distance: 08 km
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Cost Details
Included
  • Arrival and Departure Transport.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara as mentioned with breakfast.
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with an entrance fee.
  • Duffle Bag using for Trekking.
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner during the Trekking.
  • Accommodation in Tea house while trekking.
  • Kathmandu - Pokhara – Kathmandu flight.
  • Pokhara – Kagbeni and Muktinath Pokhara drive.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit fee.
  • Trekking Porter with Insurance. (We Provide 01 Porter for 02 Pax).
  • Trekking Guide with insurance.
  • Trekker’s Information Management system (TIMS).
  • Trekking Guide and Porters food and accommodation, wages etc.
  • Mustang Trekking Region map.
  • Water purification tablets.
  • Special Permit for Mustang.
  • Government taxes.
  • Office services charge.
Excluded
  • International Airfare.
  • Your travel insurance.
  • Nepal entry Visa fee (US$ 50 for 30 days) you should get visa Upon your arrival)
  • Drinks, Dessert, Juice, Mineral Water, Heater charge, Hot Shower during the Trekking and main meals in cities.
  • Tips for Guide, Porter and driver.
Essential Information

Mustang trekking permit

Mustang trekking requires a restricted area permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit. Both permits are necessary if you want to do this trek. The restricted area permit for the Upper Mustang costs USD 500 per person for the first ten days and USD 50 per person per day afterward. Likewise, the ACAP permit costs USD 30 per person.

Mustang trek difficulty

The Upper Mustang trek is moderate. The terrain and climate in Upper Mustang are very different from any other trekking region in Nepal. On this trek, you will travel in a trans-Himalayan region. The trail is offbeat, with many steep sections. You will walk on rugged cliffs and pass by rocky gorges and canyons.

The trail is not flat. You will continuously ascend or descend. On the way, multiple small passes are also crossed. Even though the overall elevation gain on the Upper Mustang trekking is lower than other famous treks in Nepal, you will still go above 2,500 meters. Because of the changing elevation, you will encounter a slightly different climate and air pressure daily.

The Upper Mustang trek is not very challenging. Any fit individual can complete this trek. The most important requirement is long walking hours. If you can walk 5 to 6 hours a day, you can do the Upper Mustang trek. If you are a beginner trekker, then make sure to have ample rest days and short trekking distances every day.

Altitude sickness during the trek

The highest point reached during our Mustang trekking is Chogo La pass, which is located [4,280] meters above sea level. Likewise, the highest settlement you will spend a night at is Lo Manthang (3,840 m/12,598 ft).

Once you are above 2,500 meters, the risk of altitude sickness drastically increases. Therefore, it is important to acclimatize and follow guidelines to avoid altitude sickness. You do not have to worry about altitude sickness much, as it is both avoidable and treatable.

Below are the symptoms and preventive measures of altitude sickness:

Symptoms

  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Insomnia
  • Loss of appetite

Preventive measures

  • To avoid altitude sickness, ascend gradually and maintain your pace.
  • Keep yourself hydrated. Drink plenty of water and refrain from having alcohol. Likewise, do not smoke and limit your coffee intake.
  • Stay mentally strong. If you believe you are fine, you will be fine 95% of the time. Refrain from letting the remoteness of the region and the challenges impact your mind.
  • Eat enough and get enough rest daily. Do not tire yourself unnecessarily. Trekking in the Himalayas is all about progress and continuity rather than speed.
  • Inform your guide if you feel any distress in your body.

Food and accommodation during the trek

It is a tea house trek. Tea houses are a simple network of accommodations along the Upper Mustang trek route for the trekkers. It offers simple lodging and food service. Twin rooms, shared washrooms, and squat-style toilets are common. Single rooms cost extra money. Likewise, in some villages, you will get private washrooms and Western-style toilets.

Because of the lack of electricity and the dependence of locals on solar power and wood, hot showers usually cost additional money. Likewise, as the elevation increases, you may have to pay extra money to charge. Paid WiFi is available in villages at lower elevations. Carry a Nepali tourist sim for a better network connection.

You will also have breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the tea houses. There is a communal dining area in every tea house. Room service is not available. Likewise, boiled water is available to drink. It is safe and costs less than plastic water bottles. You can use water purification tablets to avoid any risks of indigestion or stomach. The tea houses offer a decent variety of food for the trekkers.

Guide and porter

A guide is compulsory for the Mustang trekking. Our Mustang trekking package also includes the expense of porters. To do a restricted area trek in Nepal, trekking with a guide in a group of at least two trekkers is mandatory. You will travel with a native mountain guide and porter.

Our guides have special training and survival skills. They know the Mustang trekking route and the region deeply. You will travel safely and get to know a lot. The potters will carry duffel bags for you, which allow you to walk freely.

FAQs

The Upper Mustang trek is a moderate/difficult trek. It is recommended to experience trekkers because of its offbeat terrain. On this trek, you will cross many mountain passes and walk long hours, so good physical and mental fitness is important. 

The Upper Mustang is a restricted area because of its sensitive locations, delicate ecosystem, and cultural and archeological significance. The Upper Mustang trek route is close to the Nepal-Tibet border, making this region highly sensitive and protected.

Yes, the Mustang trekking is worth it. You will get to see trans-Himalayan landscapes and stunning mountain vistas on this trek. The Upper Mustang trek offers a very unique landscape and adventure than other trekking regions in Nepal. Travelers in quest of something different in the Himalayas will love this trek.

Yes, you can travel to Mustang by car or bike. The road is well-made, and only some sections are rugged.

The Upper Mustang trek is on the expensive side because of the restricted area permit. The cost of this trek starts at USD 2480 per person and can increase as per itinerary, group size, and services.

Yes, foreigners can easily enter the Upper Mustang if they obtain a restricted area permit in Kathmandu or Pokhara. If you have all the documents and permit fees and travel with a registered coal company like us, obtaining the restricted area permit will be no issue.

Mustang is famous for its arid desert-like landscapes and rich Tibetan Buddhist cultural heritage. In Upper Mustang, you will explore many ancient monasteries, the unique lifestyle of the locals, and sky caves. The trek offers an excellent retreat in nature where you can unwind and rejuvenate.

Yes, a licensed guide is important for the Mustang trekking. You also have to trek with a local Nepal company like us, which is allowed to organize treks in this region.

In Mustang, locals speak their own language, which is called Lowa. Because of tourists, many locals can understand and communicate in English.

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