Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal

16 Days, Multiple Departures

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Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal
  • About
  • Gallery
  • Itinerary
  • Location
  • Things to keep in mind

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Also referred to as Nepal's Last Hidden Kingdom, Upper Mustang presents one of the most patently dry terrains in all of Nepal, a drastic contrast to most other famous trekking destinations in the country. Trekking in Upper Mustang is a journey of cultural penchants and untainted traditions that have been in practice for centuries without changing in any drastic way.

A powerful kingdom hundreds of years ago, with its monarch, "The Kingdom of Lo"- as Upper Mustang is also known as was relatively isolated and barred to foreigners for the longest time. Only recently opened for trekking in 1992, Upper Mustang has one of the most well-preserved cultural ambiances in the world, with its Tibetan Buddhist culture still in practice as it was hundreds of years ago due to the region's seclusion.

Upper Mustang is also known as the land of mysticism as it has so much to offer to its visitors in terms of culture that has not been changed due to modernization. Moreover, Mustang's strategic location had also granted the once-independent kingdom control over the ancient trade route between the Himalayas of Nepal and India. This boosted the region's prosperity and made Mustang a beautiful destination filled with a culture that was rich in vibrancy and very opulent.

Flaunting a distinct topography, Upper Mustang presents a dry and arid environment to trek through. Due to the region's location in the rain-shadow zone of the Annapurna and the Dhaulagiri Mountain Ranges, Mustang receives very little rainfall. It makes the Upper Mustang Trek a good option for monsoon trekking.

Vast desert-like terrains filled with loose conglomerates of dunes, Mustang presents trekkers with mesmerizing hues of mountains that seem to change their tincture each day with the movement of the sun, tinting from red and brown to ocher. This is made even more breath-taking when the landscape is a drastic contrast to the towering Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain Ranges that tower over the valleys in shades of glimmering ivory.

Similarly, Mustang is also known for its amazing rock formations caused by the constant wind and sun erosions. Additionally, a collection of more than 50 cave paintings were recently discovered in Mustang in 2007, depicting the life of Lord Buddha, by archeologists.

The Upper Mustang Trek is a perfect amalgamation of cultural, Himalayan, and natural attributes. It is a beautifully distinct trekking experience very different from what the rest of Nepal offers. Presenting its trekkers with many Tibetan Buddhist traditions that manifest in monasteries, Gumbas, chortens, and Stupas scattered throughout the journey, the trek is a brilliant way to experience the Tibetan Buddhist culture in its purest form.

You can enjoy colorful Thanka paintings and many beautiful statues of Gods and Deities and take in an atmosphere elevated with incense-laden monastery halls with prayer wheels embedded in the walls. The Tibetan Buddhist culture and the land's myths and legends are intertwined; the trip presents trekkers with cultural threads weaved into the tapestry of the landscape itself.

About

1-hour trekkers massage / Yoga after the trip completion.

3-star hotel accommodations in Kathmandu and Pokhara

A porter and his entire expenses.

Airport pickup and drop facility.

All monument entrance fees.

All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (National Park Permit, TIMS)

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek.

Company duffel bag, t-shirt, and trekking map.

Down jackets and sleeping bags (provided upon request).

First aid medical kit

Fresh seasonal fruits after dinner (while on the trek).

Full-day guided city tour in Kathmandu (Day 2) by a private vehicle.

Insurance of guide and porter.

Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu flight tickets

Lodge expenses during the trek.

Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara flight tickets

Upper mustang special permit

Welcome and farewell dinner at one of the finest Nepalese Restaurant with traditional ethnic music and dance.

Airfare for international flights.

Cost for additional trips.

Current Hotel Taxes and Service Charges

Extra night accommodations in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the trip(due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary

Meals in the city except for breakfast and other mentioned special dinner.

Nepal arrival visa.

Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)

Services not specifically stated in the itinerary

Tipping to staffs (as an appreciation).

Travel insurance which covers emergency rescue and evacuation.

"An unforgettable experience! Starting with the Boss-Sittal, continuing with an extraordinary guide-Saffal that took care of every detail of the trek, and last but not least a very capable sherpa-Pandee, we had a really strong team.
I will most definitely return for more trekking with them!"

- Adrian D, Oct 2023

"The service is excellent, they are mindful and also think ahead of their clients need. We feel safe in our journey through their service."

- Hoo T, Oct 2023

"The trip was so wonderful that it cannot be explained simply in words. The trip to was definitely one of the most memorable ones in my life. Thank You."

Vadim C, Aug 2023


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About The Host

We are a team of young, energetic, and hardworking professionals, assisting people from across the globe, to experience and explore Nepal, one of the natural and cultural destinations in the world. We have been working in this field for more than 6 years with a new vision and direction. We organize adventure trips to the Himalayas, mountains, Tarai, and even outside the country, Everest Base Camp being the most preferred and popular one.

We feel proud to be one of the leading trekking companies in Nepal. We deliver the best travel activities such as Inbound, Outbound, Domestic, tour guide, interpreter, transportation, air ticket, accommodation, etc. We are an official member of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Trekking Agents Association of Nepal (TAAN), Kathmandu Environment Education Project (KEEP), and many more local tourism bodies. With the motto “Your Satisfaction and Safety is our first priority“, our experienced professional team leaves no stone unturned in providing quality service to our clients.

It would be our great opportunity to organize and assist your adventure holidays in Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. For us, client satisfaction matters a lot and we guarantee you that.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)

You may arrive in Kathmandu at any time. Upon your arrival, you will be greeted by one of our airport representatives who will help you get transferred to your Hotel. There are no planned activities for the day, so you may check into your Hotel and relax. Overnight stay at the Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2

Kathmandu valley sightseeing tour and trek preparation

This day is reserved for a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu city's World Heritage Sites. You will visit the holy Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the Bouddhanath shrine, the Swayambhunath Stupa, and the Kathmandu Durbar Square. Each of the sites holds revered religious and historical significance and presents amazing artwork and architectural ingenuity. Each of the sites is built in a traditional style and is crafted with beautiful woodwork, stone masonry, and metal molds. They provide deep insight into the historical and religious context of Nepal. After the tour, you will then be dropped back at your hotel where you can prepare for tomorrow's trekking trip. Overnight stay at the Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 3

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m/2,690ft), 6-7 hours’ drive

Today, you will be transferred to Pokhara- the tourist hub of Nepal. Pokhara is a beautiful city situated beside the pristine Phewa Lake. Upon arriving in Pokhara, you can enjoy good views of the Annapurna Peaks like the Machhapuchhre Himal and the Dhaulagiri Peak among others. You can also enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lake if you wish. Overnight stay at the Hotel in Pokhara.

Day 4

Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom and trek to Kagbeni (2,800m/9,186ft) 2-3 hours

Today, you will have a short flight from Pokhara to Jomsom- the headquarters of Mustang. Famous for its Shaligrams- fossilized black shells believed to be the natural reincarnation of Lord Vishnu, Jomsom is a beautiful village located by the banks of the Kali Gandaki. From Jomsom, you will then trek to Kagbeni- also known as "the Gateway to Upper Mustang". A special permit is needed to trek into Kagbeni. The settlement has many ruins, remnants of the ancient prosperous kingdom that it once was. Trekking through rice fields that are planted in the foothills of massive eroding cliffs, you will arrive at Kagbeni. Here, you can see traditional houses built with mud and stacked with stones. Kagbeni was an important trading point in ancient times where traders from Lo Manthang, Manang, and Dolpo would exchange textiles, meat, and salt. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Kagbeni.

Day 5

Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m/10,006ft) 5-6 hours

Today, you will trek from Kagbeni to the village of Chele. The trekking trail follows the banks of the Kali Gandaki River. You can also enjoy amazing views of the Nilgiri and Tukuche Mountain Peaks along the way. Coruscating through the Kali Gandaki River Valley, you will hike to Kalobhir. Further from Kalobhir, you will come across the Sky Caves- recently discovered in 2007. Perched hundreds of meters above the ground inside rock caverns, the Sky Caves were also featured in the National Geographic. The trekking trail then passes through an apple orchard. Ethnic villages like Tengbe, Gumbakang, and Chhusang are also located along the journey. Finally, you will reach Chele. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Chele.

Day 6

Trek from Chele to Ghiling (3,440m/11,286ft) 5-6 hours

From Chele, you will climb through steep terrain with strong winds and high eroding cliffs that present amazing cobble formation. Hiking into a steep canyon, you will pass the gorge and slow descent down to some Stupas located on the canyon ridge towards the village of Samar. From here, the trail continues towards Ghiling. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Ghiling.

Day 7

Trek from Ghiling to Charang (3,490m/11,450ft) 5-6 hours

From Ghiling, you will make your way to Charang today, passing by two low-mountain passes. Along the way, you will come across a huge five-story Dzong and also a Red Gompa that houses interesting collections of Buddhist statues and Thanka paintings. Charang is a small settlement that has few traditional houses painted in crimson red. You will see many Mani stones here, carved with prayers and colorful prayer flags perched atop the Mani walls. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Tsarang.

Day 8

Trek from Charang to Lo-Manthang (3,730m/12,237ft) 2-3 hours

From Charang, you will trek through the arid landscape, passing by flat desert dunes with occasional cacti and shrubbery succulents growing hereabout. The trek is filled with a peaceful ambiance broken only by the occasional peal of bells upon mule caravans. The amazing rock formations on cliffs and boulders along the way are quite charismatic. The serrated rocks rise into the air and present unique lopsided swivels caused by decades of erosion. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Lo Manthang.  

Day 9

Explore day at Lo-Manthang (3,730m/12,237ft)

This day is reserved for exploring. Lo Manthang is one of the most historic sites of Mustang. It was constructed by its first King- Ame Pal. Giant walls were constructed to surround the village to protect it from bandits. This led to Lo Manthang being the only walled city of Nepal for the longest time. Much of the whitewashed walls still stand today. The village is also known for its King's Palace- a nine-cornered, five-storied building constructed during the 1400s. It houses many Ranjana inscriptions. Likewise, you can also visit the village's four major temples- the Jampa Kakhang, the Thubchen Gompa, the Chodey Gompa, and the Choprang Gompa. You can also pay a visit to the Nyiphu and Garphu Cave Monasteries at Chhosar. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Lo Manthang.

Day 10

Trek from Lo-Manthang to Drakmar (3,810m/12,500ft) 5-6 hours

From Lo Manthang, you will trek to Drakmar today, hiking through the arid landscape with towering cliffs. These cliffs are believed to be formed by the splattering of a demon's blood slain by Guru Rinpoche. Along the way, you will also pass by the Lo Gekar Monastery- an important site of the Lo Tso Dun (the ethnic Loba people of the region). The monastery dates back to the 8th century. It was built by Guru Rinpoche after he defeated a Dakini (Demon), cut off its body into many different parts, and buried its heart upon the hill where the monastery is located. Along the way, you will also encounter a Mani stone wall carved with Buddhist mantras. It is the longest Mani wall in the world, believed to be built atop the remains of the slain dakini's intestines. Finally, you will reach Drakmar. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Drakmar.

Day 11

Trek from Drakmar to Ghiling (3,806m/12,484ft) 5-6 hours

From Drakmar, you will hike back south, following the same trekking path towards Ghiling. Along the way, you can see majestic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Peaks. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Ghiling.

Day 12

Trek from Ghiling to Chhusang (3,050m/10,004ft) 5-6 hours

From Ghiling, you will trace your way towards Chhusang. The trek is leisurely with strong afternoon winds flowing through the valley. The dry landscape almost looks alien-like because of the parched and desiccated rocks. The ethnic people believe that these rocks were carved by giants. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Chhusang.

Day 13

Trek from Chhusang to Jomsom (2,700m/8,856ft) 6-7 hours

From Chhusang, you will trek back to Kagbeni, following the same pathway. You will pass by yak caravans and can also see local people dressed up in traditional attire. Small pockets of amiable lands are used for agriculture and you will pass through green farm clusters along the way. From Kagbeni, you will make your way back to Jomsom, trekking on the familiar path that you used at the beginning of the trekking journey. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Jomsom.

Day 14

Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (820m/2,690ft) 25 minutes flight

From Jomsom, you will catch a flight back to Pokhara. You can spend the rest of the day in Pokhara relaxing or enjoying the city's attractions. Overnight stay at the Hotel in Pokhara.

Day 15

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, 7-8 hrs drive

You will bid the Annapurna Mountains goodbye for the last time and drive back to Kathmandu. Overnight stay at the Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 16

Departure day

Approximately three hours before your scheduled flight, you will be taken to the airport for your departure.

Location
Things to keep in mind

Cancellations

The cancellation and refund policy of Activ Retreats is previously well-defined. The organization is not liable for any refunds or reimbursements if a customer decides to cancel or withdraw from the trip for any reason. This means that once the trip has started, the company will not return the money you paid for it.

Nonetheless, consumer deposits are valid until the customer is prepared to make another travel reservation. Customers also have the option of changing the individual who will be traveling with them. If the customer must cancel or postpone the trip for personal reasons or because of unavoidable circumstances, the company will not be held liable for reimbursements.

The cancellation of a trip may be caused by unforeseen events including weather conditions, natural disasters, canceled flights, strikes, wars, riots, quarantines, government action, or poor health problems of a group member.

The Company demands written notice from the customer for any cancellations. The day the written cancellation is received by the company will serve as the date of the cancelled trip. 100% of the total fee may be refunded if a consumer cancels the trip one month before the departure date.


The Contract

A renowned and fully accredited business, Activ Retreats is officially registered with numerous national and international agencies, as well as with various departments of the Government of Nepal. Our business is located in Thamel, Kathmandu, and we work hard to give our clients from all over the world top-notch services.

Visas and Passports:

Passengers must have their current passport and the necessary visas for the destination country. Also, we urge our clients to confirm that their passports are valid for at least an additional six months after the end of their trip. Travelers’ carelessness with regard to visa paperwork and passports will not hold the company responsible if they are deported or denied entry to the nation while on their trip.

Travel Insurance

It is a major requirement of Activ Retreats that you have your travel insurance covered. Medical insurance, air ambulance service, and helicopter rescue services are all required, for this is a Himalayan nation and there are major issues of unfavorable circumstances in high altitudes. Also to be on the safe side, we also strongly advise our clients to purchase cancellation insurance. Please be sure your insurance policies offer complete protection and include the majority of the trip activities you engage in.

Prior to the trip, we will need a copy of your insurance documentation as evidence. If you are unable to give us with the insurance certificate for different reasons, you will be required to sign a suitable policy or agreement right away. However, if for any reason you are unable to do it, you will be prohibited. If you are unable to give us with the insurance certificate for whatever reason, you will be required to sign a suitable policy or agreement right away. But, you won’t be allowed to continue your journey if you are unable to do it because of unfavorable circumstances. Also, you won’t be eligible for a refund for any services that weren’t rendered.

Flexibility

The unique tours provided by Activ Retreats include demanding activities with inherent dangers. Customers must accept the risks because the company is not liable for mishaps or unforeseen circumstances in the Himalayas. Passengers must respect the authority of the trip leader, be adaptable, and be aware that changes may take place while they are on the trip. Throughout the journey, the corporation has the authority to accept or refuse customers, and those who break the law won’t get their money back. Customers must fill out a form and pay a 20% non-refundable deposit (or 50% for trips to Tibet and Bhutan) to reserve a tour; the remaining balance is required upon arrival in Kathmandu.

Payment Methods

The business provides bank transfers and credit cards (Master/Visa/American Express/Union Pay/JCB/SCT Card) as two practical and secure methods of payment. While completing the booking application form, the client must specify the payment method in full and give the company all necessary credit card information. However, the remaining balance (80% for trips to Nepal and 50% for trips to Tibet and Bhutan) must be paid in cash to the company before leaving for the trip from Kathmandu.

Trip Amendments:

Please note that the following conditions apply to amendments for trips listed on this site:

Amendments requested at least 60 days prior to the trip incur a fee of USD 50/person.

Amendments requested less than 60 days before the trip follow the cancellation policy and charges.

Changes in trip price during booking and amendments may apply and may be levied by third-party service providers.

Additional administration fees of USD 20/booking per change apply for any additions to the original booking.

Amendments cannot be made within 10 days of the original trip departure, and if made, a minimum fee of USD 50 applies.


Health Conditions

The Company requires a well-documented medical certificate from an accredited medical facility prior to the start of the trip in order to assure the safety and health of our travelers. While making a reservation, the company must be advised of any medical concerns or issues. The Company will not pay for any medical or evacuation costs, and it won’t be held accountable for accidents. Prior to making a reservation with us, we advise patients to visit their doctors for a complete examination and vaccination. If necessary, clients may also ask for additional services while on their trip or staying in the destination nation.

Weather Conditions

Customers should be informed that unpredictably bad weather might cause flight delays or cancellations in hilly areas like Everest, Mustang, and Kanchenjunga. The company reserves the right to change the itinerary or mode of transportation without incurring additional costs and will pay for lodging and meals while flights are being booked. The Company is not liable for missing foreign flights, expenses related to altitude sickness, or any other unforeseen events and participants are responsible for all costs incurred. The client will be responsible for any additional costs, although the company will help with alternate arrangements. Although giving information, the company is not liable for unforeseen circumstances and the company chief may, in writing, waive these booking requirements. Legal agreements are controlled by Nepalese law, and the Company Chief alone has the authority to change them.

Note: All of the Terms and Conditions have been prepared in accordance with and are subject to the laws of the Government of Nepal. Hence, the only person with the power to interfere and make changes is the company’s CEO.

Please ensure that you have read, fully understand, and agree to abide by all of the Terms and Conditions before booking a trip with Activ Retreats.