Upper Mustang Trek

Today you explore the cultural and spiritual heart of the Kathmandu Valley. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa, each offering deep insight into Nepal’s Hindu and Buddhist traditions. In the afternoon, return to your hotel for final trek preparations – gear checks, permit reviews, and rest. The evening is calm, allowing your body and mind to prepare for the journey north.

After breakfast, travel to Pokhara, either by scenic drive (6–7 hours) following river valleys and hills or by a short flight offering aerial views of Nepal’s diverse terrain. Pokhara’s lakeside calm contrasts beautifully with Kathmandu’s bustle. Spend the evening beside Phewa Lake, with Annapurna and Machhapuchhre glowing softly at sunset.

An early morning flight (or drive) takes you to Jomsom, set in the dramatic Kali Gandaki Valley between Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. After meeting your trekking crew, begin a gentle trek to Kagbeni, the historic gateway to Upper Mustang. Kagbeni’s narrow alleys, mud-brick houses, prayer wheels, and ancient monastery create a timeless atmosphere. This evening, the wind carries stories of traders, monks, and pilgrims who once passed through this village.

After completing permit formalities, you officially enter Upper Mustang. The trail follows the river before climbing steep ridges with sweeping views of the valley. Pass through Tangbe village, known for whitewashed houses and apple orchards, before reaching Chele, perched above deep canyons. Here, green foothills begin giving way to Mustang’s stark, wind-sculpted desert landscape.

Today involves climbing through narrow gorges and crossing high passes such as Taklam La and Dajori La. Panoramic views of Tilicho Peak and distant Himalayan giants accompany the walk.
Descend briefly to Samar village, then continue through juniper forests and ancient meditation caves to reach Syangboche, a peaceful settlement framed by dramatic cliffs.

Leaving Syangboche, the trail rises gradually across vast, open plateaus where the immensity of the Mustang landscape becomes fully apparent. Cross the windswept Yamda La Pass, marked by vibrant prayer flags and ancient chorten. From the pass, sweeping views unfold across hills and distant snow-capped peaks before the path descends toward Ghami.

Arrive at Ghami, one of Upper Mustang’s oldest and most atmospheric villages, nestled amid golden barley fields and framed by dramatic eroded cliffs. The village is renowned for its long mani walls, some of the longest in the region, inscribed with sacred mantras that echo the area’s deep spiritual heritage. 

The trail climbs gently toward Nyi La Pass, where prayer flags flutter against a vast Himalayan sky. From the pass, the path descends into the broad, windswept valley of Tsarang, one of Upper Mustang’s most historically significant settlements. The village is crowned by an imposing monastery and a centuries-old royal palace, once the seat of Mustang’s rulers. As evening falls, Tsarang’s red-and-white homes glow softly in the fading light, creating a scene of rare beauty and quiet grandeur – one of the most iconic vistas of the region.

Today’s walk unfolds across stark, high-desert terrain, where the silence is broken only by the wind. Gradually, the fabled walls of Lo Manthang emerge on the horizon – the ancient capital of Upper Mustang. Entering the city feels like crossing a threshold in time: whitewashed houses, spinning prayer wheels, and age-old monasteries resonate with low, haunting chants. Spend the evening wandering the narrow lanes, absorbing the sacred stillness and timeless spirit of this legendary walled city.

A full day to immerse yourself in the cultural and spiritual heart of Upper Mustang. Explore Lo Manthang’s revered monasteries, including Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa, and Chode Gompa, celebrated for their extraordinary centuries-old murals and sacred architecture. Engage with local residents to gain insight into traditional weaving, farming, and deeply rooted spiritual customs. 

Departing Lo Manthang, follow an alternate trail that weaves through a landscape of dramatic red cliffs and sacred landmarks. Visit Ghar Gompa, believed to be one of Mustang’s oldest monasteries and a powerful spiritual site. The journey continues to Dhakmar, a village set amid striking crimson rock formations. At sunset, the surrounding hills blaze with color, lending the area an almost otherworldly, dreamlike quality.

Heading south, the trail passes through terrain that feels familiar yet newly appreciated. Descend gently through wide valleys dotted with chortens and juniper groves, where the stark wilderness slowly gives way to signs of habitation. Arrive at Syangboche with time to reflect on the profound contrast between the isolation of Lo and the gradual return to more settled landscapes.

The descent continues as the land begins to soften and the air grows warmer. The path rejoins the Kali Gandaki corridor, winding past traditional villages and fantastically eroded cliffs sculpted by centuries of wind and water. Reach Chhusang, where the valley opens wide and the sense of transition, from the high desert back toward greener regions, is unmistakable.

A day rich in both scenery and spiritual significance. Climb steadily to Gyu La Pass, rewarded with sweeping panoramas of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and the vast Mustang valleys stretching behind you. From the pass, descend to Muktinath, one of Nepal’s most sacred pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists. Visit the revered temple complex and the 108 stone waterspouts before settling in for a well-earned rest, marking a meaningful conclusion to your Upper Mustang journey.

After breakfast, drive to Jomsom, then fly or drive back to Pokhara. The return journey feels reflective – desert valleys fade into green hills, and mountain silence gives way to lakeside calm. Enjoy a relaxed evening in Pokhara celebrating the completion of an extraordinary trek.

Return to Kathmandu by flight or scenic drive. Spend your final evening shopping for souvenirs, revisiting favorite cafés, or enjoying a farewell dinner with your Iconic Himalaya team.

An Iconic Himalaya representative transfers you to the airport for your onward flight. You depart Nepal carrying memories of the ancient Kingdom of Mustang – a place where time slows, culture endures, and the Himalaya speaks softly but profoundly.

Safe travels, and Namaste.