16 Days Challenging

Mustang Round 16 days

Why do we choose private transport instead of flights for the Mustang trek? We prefer private vehicles as roads have improved, making travel reliable and comfortable. Mountain fli...

Mustang Round 16 days

Difficulty
Challenging
Max Elevation
4065
Duration
16
Best Time
Pokhara - Pokhara
Accommodation
Tea Houses / lodges
Group Size
2-12

Why do we choose private transport instead of flights for the Mustang trek?

We prefer private vehicles as roads have improved, making travel reliable and comfortable. Mountain flights are often delayed due to weather, while private transport is more dependable, flexible, and affordable, ensuring a smoother experience for guests.

The Mustang Round Trek extends beyond Lo Manthang, offering a full circuit through the high desert valleys, remote villages, and sacred sites, providing an in-depth experience of Mustang’s history, culture, and geography. Upper Mustang, known as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom," is a unique region where Tibetan‑influenced culture remains exceptionally well preserved. Set in Nepal’s dry, high-altitude area, it features dramatic landscapes, ancient monasteries, cave homes, and the historic walled city of Lo Manthang, the royal capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang. The kingdom was ruled by the King of Mustang for centuries, maintaining its independence and culture until it became part of Nepal in the 18th century. Each village has its own palace, constructed for local rulers under the king, serving as both a residence and ceremonial centre. Buddhism has long shaped life here, with mani walls, chortens, and monasteries reflecting centuries of practice. Lo Gekar and Namgyal Gompa in Lo Manthang are among the oldest and most significant monasteries, and Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) is believed to have introduced Buddhism and blessed many sacred sites.

The trek passes through villages such as Chhoser, Ghemi, Charang, Dhakmar, Yara Gaon, and Tangye, along with notable monasteries like Luri Gumba. Upper Mustang is also famous for its numerous caves on cliffs and hillsides, historically used for meditation, burial, storage, or temporary shelter, reflecting the valley’s spiritual heritage. Vibrant festivals, including Tiji, a three-day ritual celebrating the victory of good over evil, and other local ceremonies are held throughout the villages. Unlike many other parts of Nepal, Upper Mustang can be visited during the summer monsoon, offering clear skies and spectacular views. The trek is ideal for travellers seeking a cultural and spiritual experience with moderate walking, including short hikes to caves, horse riding in villages, and photography of landscapes, monasteries, and festivals.

Trip Highlight

  • The "Last Forbidden Kingdom" with Tibetan culture
  • Lo Manthang, villages, palaces, and markets
  • Ancient monasteries and sacred caves of Guru Rinpoche
  • Horse riding and photography of festivals and scenery
  • The three-day Buddhist festival Tiji
  • Complete change of scenery and history

Itinerary

  • D1

    Arrive Kathmandu (1350m). Transfer to the hotel

    Your memorable holiday begins in Kathmandu. After arrival, you will have time to freshen up before meeting your guide for an afternoon briefing. This is the perfect moment to organize your trekking gear and prepare your bags for the journey ahead.

    Accommodation: Hotel. Meals included: morning
    Transport : 20 M drive hotel.

    Max Altitude
    1,350m
  • D2

    Kathmandu - Pokhara (850 m)

    The journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara (860 m) typically takes about 6-8 hours by road, covering approximately 200 kilometers. The route follows the Prithvi Highway, winding through hills, rivers and small towns, offering scenic views of the countryside and glimpses of the Himalayas on clear days.

    Accommodation: Hotel. Meals included: morning noon.
    Transport : 6/8 h drive (Pokhara).


    Max Altitude
    820m
  • D3

    Drive Jomsom - Chele (3100 m)

    Drive from Pokhara to Jomsom, then onward to Chele, passing through the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge, surrounded by towering mountains, and entering the restricted area of Upper Mustang.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning afternoon.
    Transport : 5/6 hours drive by jeep (Kagbeni).


    Max Altitude
    2,700m & 2,810m
  • D4

    Chele - Chungsi Cave (3700 M) - Geling (3550 M)

    Starting from Chele, follow a gentle uphill trail above the Kali Gandaki Valley. Pass terraced fields, cliffs, small ravines, chörtens, and mani walls before reaching Chungsi Cave. Descend to the track and transfer by jeep to Geling, a scenic village with barley fields and a monastery with valley views.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 880 m. Elevation loss: 380 m. 6 hours walking. Transfer: 1 h

    Max Altitude
    3,050m
  • D5

    Geling - Ghami (3500 m) Dakmar (3800 m)

    We leave Geling through lanes with whitewashed walls and barley fields, then climb to a wind-swept plateau with panoramic views of Upper Mustang’s ochre hills. After crossing a pass, we descend to Ghami, dominated by a long mani wall, and continue through a dry valley to reach Dhakmar, nestled beneath its dramatic red cliffs.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.        
    Elevation gain: 760 m. Elevation loss: 540 m. 6 hours walking.

    Max Altitude
    3,475m
  • D6

    Dakmar - Mui La Pass (4150 m) - Lo Manthang (3800 m)

    From Dhakmar, we head towards the ridges and climb to Mui La (4,150?m), a remote pass in Mustang, before descending to Lo Gekar Monastery, also known as Ghar Gompa, an 8th-century monastery and one of the oldest in Mustang. After exploring the monastery amid colourful mountain scenery, we make a final gentle climb to a small pass, from where a vast plain opens up, dominated by the walled capital of the Lo Kingdom, Lo Manthang.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 660 m. Elevation loss: 660 m. 6 hours walking.


    Max Altitude
    3,520m
  • D7

    Lo Manthang

    Today is for exploring the medieval town, founded by Ame Pal in 1380, and taking a break. Wander the small streets to meet locals, watch daily life in the palace square, and admire the monasteries’ artwork. Chode and Jampa monasteries are particularly notable for their historic frescoes and mandalas.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.

    Max Altitude
    3,560m
  • D8

    lo Manthang - Lo La Pass (3950 m) - Dhi Gaon (3380 m) - Yara (3650 m)

    We leave Lo Manthang for Lo Pass (3,950?m), following a ledge trail with views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. After a steep descent to Dhi Gaon through a lunar landscape, we climb along the Puyun Khola riverbed past ancient cave dwellings before reaching the small hamlet of Yara.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.        
    Elevation gain: 650 m. Elevation loss: 750 m. 6 hours walking.


    Max Altitude
    3,840m
  • D9

    Yara - Luri Gompa (3880 m) - Yara (3650 m)

    From Yara, follow the riverbed and gorge to Tashi Kabum, famous for its rock-cut caves. Continue to Luri Gompa, perched on a cliff. A short, steep 30-minute climb leads to the monastery within a fairy chimney, where 15th-century paintings and a chörten await.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.        
    Elevation gain: 570  m. Elevation loss: 570 m. 6 hours walking.


  • D10

    Yara - Dhichvang Khola (3480 m) - Tangye (3350 m)

    The trail descends to a ravine, then climbs to a plateau at 3,750?m with spectacular “organ pipe” rock formations and views of Dhaulagiri. After descending to Dichvang Khola and crossing it, we climb to a 4,000?m pass before dropping to Tangye (3,340?m), a remote village with striking architecture and a row of chortens.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 940 m. Elevation loss: 1160 m. 7 hours walking.


    Max Altitude
    3,820m
  • D11

    Tangge - Paha Pass (4220 m) - Chhusang (2960 m)

    It’s a long day with several climbs and descents. We start with a short drop into the gorge, then climb steeply to Paha Pass (4,220?m) over about four hours. The trail then winds across rolling plateaus and ridges, passing sharply sculpted rock formations, before descending to Chhusang (2,980?m), a village we’ve visited before. The landscape is wild and dramatic, with vibrant colours and striking geological formations, making it a truly memorable day.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 1280 m. Elevation loss: 1780 m. 9 hours walking.

    Max Altitude
    3,570m
  • D12

    Chhusang - le Gyu La (4077 m) - Muktinath (3700 m)

    Today’s trek leads us to the Hindu sanctuary of Muktinath via Gyu La Pass (4,077?m), passing through Tetang village. The climb is steep but set amidst breathtaking scenery. From the pass, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna unfold in magnificent views. The trail descends and skirts the hillside to join the route from Thorung Pass before reaching Muktinath. We pause to explore the sanctuary, visited by many pilgrims, 

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.      
    Elevation gain: 1050 m. Elevation loss: 320 m. 6H Transfers.

    Max Altitude
    3,660m
  • D13

    Muktinatih - Pokhara

    After a full days's drive, you arrive in Pokhara with time to explore this beautiful city. Relax by the lakeside, where cafés and bars offer lovely views of the Himalayan ranges. If time permits, enjoy a boat ride on the calm lake, reflecting the iconic Fishtail Mountain.

     Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 335 m. Elevation loss: 340 m. 6H Transfers.

    Max Altitude
    2,810m
  • D14

    Pokhara - Kathmandu

    Once breakfast is finished, you will drive back to Kathmandu. Approximately six or seven hours are needed to finish this picturesque drive along the Prithvi Highway.

    Accommodation: Hotel. Meals included: morning
    Transport : 6/7 hours drive by jeep (Kathmandu)

    Max Altitude
    3,800m via 5,416m
  • D15

    Kathmandu - Souvenirs day | Sightseeing Day.

    If you choose sightseeing, this full-day cultural tour offers a well-rounded experience of Kathmandu’s history, spirituality, and art, guided by a certified expert who will enrich your understanding of the city’s unique heritage.

    Suggested itinerary (maximum three sites per day):

    - Swayambunath
    - Bhaktapur
    - Boudhanath
    - Patan Durbar Square
    - Kathmandu Durbar Square

     The price includes a certified cultural guide, a reserved vehicle, and a professional driver for the day.

    Pricing per person:

      2 - 3 People: €70
      4 - 6 People: €50
      7 - 10 People: €35
      11 - 15 + People: €30          


    Max Altitude
    2,700m
  • D16

    Final Departure / Back to Native Land

    According to your flight schedule, we will drive you to the airport for your onward journey.

    Max Altitude
    820m

Information

    • What's included
    • Emergency Contacts & Safety
    • Know About Nepal
    • Altitude Sickness, Risks & Prevention
    • Best Treks, Food & Accommodation
    • Best Time & Best Weather
    • Tips & Gratitude
    • Personal Expenses & Currency
    • What's not included
    • Trekking gear & equipment
    • Trail-specific footwear
    • Trekking Essentials
    • Optional But Useful Gear
    • Electronics & Communication
    • Navigation & Safety Gear
    • First Aid Kit & Medication

Group Departures

  • All Years
  • 2026
  • 2027
  • All Months
  • February
  • March
  • September
  • October
  • November
Dates
Status
16th October, 2026 - 31st October, 2026
Limited
25th October, 2026 - 9th November, 2026
Limited
9th November, 2026 - 24th November, 2026
Limited
19th November, 2026 - 4th December, 2026
Limited
20th February, 2027 - 7th March, 2027
Limited
5th March, 2027 - 20th March, 2027
Limited
26th September, 2027 - 11th October, 2027
Limited
9th October, 2027 - 24th October, 2027
Limited
20th October, 2027 - 4th November, 2027
Limited
17th November, 2027 - 2nd December, 2027
Limited

FAQs

1Is the Mustang Round Trek worth it?
Yes, if you're looking for a remote, culturally rich experience in a Tibetan-influenced region of Nepal. The landscapes are unique and the history is deep, making it very rewarding for serious trekkers and culture lovers.
2What makes the Mustang trek different from Annapurna or Everest treks?
Mustang is more arid and desert-like, with fewer crowds and a strong Tibetan Buddhist culture. Unlike Annapurna or Everest, it feels more like a cultural pilgrimage than a typical mountain adventure
3Is it too expensive because of the restricted area permit?
The permit costs $500 for 10 days, which some find expensive. However, many trekkers say the experience is unique enough to justify the cost - especially the visit to Lo Manthang and the ancient caves.
4Are there roads on the trail? Does it spoil the trek?
Yes, some parts now have jeep roads. While this makes access easier, some trekkers feel it reduces the wilderness feel. Choosing side trails and experienced guides helps avoid busy sections.
5Is the trek physically difficult?
It’s moderate to challenging. The altitude (up to 4,200m) and strong winds can be tough, but the trails themselves are not extremely steep. Good preparation is important.
6What do trekkers love most about Mustang?
The spiritual atmosphere, ancient monasteries, friendly locals, dramatic rock formations and the walled city of Lo Manthang are the highlights most people mention
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Mingmar S. Sherpa
Mingmar S. Sherpa
Managing Director
Lhakpa Sherpa
Lhakpa Sherpa
Co Director & Guide
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