Lo Monthang and Muktinath – 12 days
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Trip Information
Lo Monthang and Muktinath – 12 days step into the mystical heart of Upper Mustang, where ancient Tibetan culture thrives amid a landscape of dramatic cliffs, windswept plateaus, and centuries-old monasteries. Our 12-day Lo Manthang and Muktinath Jeep Tour is a spiritual and cultural odyssey into one of Nepal’s most remote and captivating regions. Designed for those who seek a deep connection to the Himalayan heritage without days of trekking, this overland adventure blends comfort and exploration as you traverse the hidden kingdom of Lo and the sacred trails of the Annapurna region.
Beginning from the lakeside serenity of Pokhara, this journey takes you north through the Kali Gandaki gorge—the deepest in the world—past apple orchards, walled villages, and timeless Buddhist shrines. The crown jewel awaits in Lo Manthang, the once-forbidden walled capital of Mustang, where you’ll walk through medieval alleys, visit ancient monasteries like Thubchen and Jampa, and connect with a way of life untouched by time. You’ll also witness the spiritual grace of Muktinath, a revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, offering fire, water, and liberation at 3,800 meters.
Itinerary
Drive Duration: N/A
Meals: Dinner
Highest Altitude: 822 m / 2,696 ft
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Upon arrival in the scenic lakeside city of Pokhara, you’ll be welcomed by our ABC Treks team and transferred to your hotel. The city, nestled beneath the Annapurna range, offers a refreshing atmosphere to relax and prepare for the highland journey ahead.
You can spend the afternoon strolling along Phewa Lake, visiting the Tal Barahi Temple or simply enjoying a peaceful sunset over the water. We’ll brief you about the upcoming jeep tour, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the trans-Himalayan adventure.
Drive Duration: 6–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highest Altitude: 1,190 m / 3,904 ft
Accommodation: Lodge in Tatopani
Today’s journey begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara into the lower Mustang region. The road gradually ascends through beautiful villages and lush green hills before reaching Tatopani, a quaint settlement known for its natural hot springs.
Once in Tatopani, you can soak in the therapeutic waters surrounded by dramatic hillsides and the sound of the Kali Gandaki River. It's the perfect way to relax your body and mind before entering the more arid zones of Mustang.
Drive Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highest Altitude: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft
Accommodation: Lodge in Kagbeni
Leaving the green valleys behind, we follow the Kali Gandaki gorge into the rain-shadowed Mustang region. The landscape transforms into drier, desert-like terrain as we pass the picturesque apple village of Marpha and the wind-swept town of Jomsom.
Our day ends in Kagbeni, the traditional gateway to Upper Mustang. The medieval village lies at the confluence of two rivers and offers a perfect blend of Tibetan culture, old fort ruins, and prayer wheels lining narrow alleyways.
Drive Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highest Altitude: 3,520 m / 11,548 ft
Accommodation: Lodge in Ghami
From Kagbeni, the drive becomes more adventurous as we officially enter Upper Mustang after a permit check. The landscape turns dramatic, with views of eroded canyons, red cliffs, and mystical caves carved into rocky outcrops.
We reach Ghami, one of the larger villages of Upper Mustang, nestled beneath ochre cliffs. This village is surrounded by buckwheat fields and features one of the longest Mani walls in the region, radiating deep spiritual significance.
Drive Duration: 4–5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highest Altitude: 3,840 m / 12,598 ft
Accommodation: Lodge in Lo Manthang
The journey to the fabled walled city of Lo Manthang is nothing short of breathtaking. The jeep winds past barren ridges, ancient cave settlements, and stone hamlets until the iconic white walls of Lo appear on the horizon.
Entering Lo Manthang feels like stepping back in time. With its monasteries, royal palace, and mud-brick homes, the city preserves a unique Tibetan culture that has changed little over centuries. It’s a living museum in the heart of the Himalayas.
Drive Duration: Optional short drives to Chhoser
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highest Altitude: 3,840 m / 12,598 ft
Accommodation: Lodge in Lo Manthang
Today is reserved for full exploration of Lo Manthang and its surroundings. You’ll visit the major gompas such as Jampa, Thubchen, and Chode—each showcasing exquisite murals, scriptures, and architectural beauty.
Optionally, take a jeep or horseback ride to the village of Chhoser to explore its mystical sky caves and meditation chambers carved into cliffs. This is also a great opportunity to interact with the locals and understand their way of life.
Drive Duration: 2–3 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highest Altitude: 3,620 m / 11,875 ft
Accommodation: Lodge in Tsarang
After soaking in the magic of Lo Manthang, we retrace our steps to the charming village of Tsarang. The journey is short, allowing time for exploration upon arrival.
Tsarang was once the capital of Mustang and holds great historical importance. Visit the red-walled monastery and the old palace overlooking a lush green valley—a stark contrast to the surrounding rocky terrain.
Drive Duration: 6–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highest Altitude: 4,007 m / 13,147 ft (Gyu La Pass)
Accommodation: Lodge in Muktinath
Today we cross the high-altitude Gyu La Pass, offering panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. The route feels wild and vast, showcasing the sheer geographical diversity of Mustang.
Descending toward Muktinath, the sacred ambiance intensifies. This is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in Nepal, attracting both Hindus and Buddhists who come to worship the eternal flame and 108 water spouts.
Drive Duration: 2–3 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highest Altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
Accommodation: Lodge in Jomsom
In the morning, explore the Muktinath Temple complex. Devotees believe that a visit here washes away sins and grants spiritual liberation. The surreal landscape enhances the spiritual serenity of the place.
Later, drive downhill to Jomsom, the windy capital of Lower Mustang. The town offers modern conveniences, small cafes, and excellent views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
Drive Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highest Altitude: 1,190 m / 3,904 ft
Accommodation: Lodge in Tatopani
Retracing our path along the Kali Gandaki River, we return to Tatopani. The descent brings us back to green vegetation and flowing waterfalls, signaling a transition from highland desert to alpine terrain.
Back in Tatopani, you can once again indulge in the natural hot springs to relax and reflect on the transformative journey through Mustang.
Drive Duration: 6–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highest Altitude: 822 m / 2,696 ft
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
We complete our circuit today as we drive back to Pokhara through the scenic Annapurna foothills. The drive offers ample chances to absorb the final glimpses of Himalayan beauty.
Back in Pokhara, unwind with a lakeside walk or celebrate the journey with a group dinner. This evening is yours to enjoy the comfort of civilization after a remote expedition.
Drive Duration: N/A
Meals: Breakfast
Highest Altitude: 822 m / 2,696 ft
Accommodation: N/A
Depending on your onward travel plans, we’ll transfer you to the airport or assist with further arrangements. You’ll leave with unforgettable memories of a journey into Nepal’s hidden Himalayan kingdom.
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Price Inclusion
- All ground transportation by private 4WD jeep throughout the tour, including pick-up and drop-off in Pokhara.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trip in local lodges/teahouses.
- Twin-sharing accommodation in standard lodges and guesthouses during the tour; hotel in Pokhara.
- Professional English-speaking guide with experience in the Upper Mustang region, including guide salary, meals, and insurance.
- All required permits: Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and TIMS card.
- Sightseeing as per the itinerary, including visits to Lo Manthang, Muktinath Temple, Chhoser caves, and monasteries.
- Government taxes, agency service charge, and all applicable permits and local fees.
Price Exclusion
- International airfare to/from Nepal and domestic flights (if any) to/from Pokhara.
- Nepal visa fees and personal travel insurance covering emergency rescue/evacuation.
- Extra night accommodation in Pokhara or Kathmandu due to early return or unforeseen conditions.
- Personal expenses such as snacks, beverages, laundry, hot showers, and Wi-Fi at teahouses.
- Tips for guides, drivers, and staff (customary but not mandatory).
- Entrance fees for temples or monuments not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Any costs arising from natural calamities, political disturbances, or itinerary changes due to road/weather conditions.