Upper Mustang – 5 days

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Trip Information

Once a hidden Tibetan kingdom, Upper Mustang – 5 days is a land of mystery, ancient traditions, and stark natural beauty. Isolated from the outside world for centuries, this region in the northern Himalayas is now accessible via rugged off-road routes. Our 5-day Upper Mustang Jeep Tour offers the perfect blend of comfort and cultural immersion, allowing travelers to journey deep into Mustang’s spiritual and scenic heart—without trekking.

Driving through the world’s deepest gorge along the Kali Gandaki River, crossing windswept plateaus, and entering Lo Manthang, the walled city of former Mustang royalty—you’ll witness a world frozen in time. This journey is more than a tour; it’s a passage into a living museum of Tibetan culture, Buddhist spirituality, and untouched Himalayan landscapes.

Itinerary

Day 1: Pokhara to Kagbeni (2850m) – Drive (5–6 hours)

Today begins with an early morning flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges as well as the deep Kali Gandaki Gorge. Upon landing in Jomsom, you drive or jeep to Kagbeni, a traditional walled village that serves as the gateway to Upper Mustang. The landscape gradually transitions from the green valleys of the lower Himalayas to the arid, desert-like terrain characteristic of Mustang.

Kagbeni is a picturesque village perched on the edge of the Kali Gandaki River, featuring narrow alleyways, stone houses, and a centuries-old monastery. Trekkers can explore the village and its surrounding gompas, witnessing the blend of Tibetan and Nepali culture that dominates the region. The village also serves as an acclimatization stop, allowing trekkers to rest and prepare for the higher-altitude areas of Upper Mustang. The evening offers a serene sunset over the arid hills and snow-capped peaks, setting the tone for the journey ahead.

Day 2: Kagbeni to Lo Manthang (3840m) – Drive (5–6 hours)

The journey from Kagbeni to Lo Manthang takes you deeper into the mystical Upper Mustang region. Driving through the barren, desert-like landscape, you will pass rugged canyons, towering cliffs, and the occasional remote village. The terrain gradually rises, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and the arid plateau that defines Mustang. This drive allows trekkers to experience the unique topography of the region comfortably while catching glimpses of Mustang’s traditional architecture and cultural landmarks along the route.

Upon arrival in Lo Manthang, the walled capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang, you are greeted by narrow alleys, ancient monasteries, and centuries-old fortifications. The village is steeped in Tibetan-Buddhist culture, and trekkers can explore its gompas, stupas, and the royal palace. Lo Manthang’s remote and serene setting provides a perfect opportunity to acclimatize, enjoy the sunset over the surrounding hills, and immerse yourself in the unique culture and history of Upper Mustang. Spending the night here allows you to rest fully before continuing deeper into the restricted Mustang region.

Day 3: Explore Lo Manthang & Surroundings

Today is dedicated to exploring Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of the former Mustang Kingdom. Walking through its narrow alleys, you can admire traditional stone houses, intricately carved wooden windows, and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Key sites include the royal palace, centuries-old gompas, and local markets where artisans sell handicrafts, textiles, and prayer wheels. This exploration provides an intimate glimpse into the lifestyle and traditions preserved in this remote Himalayan region.

In the afternoon, trekkers can visit nearby villages such as Chhoser and Ghemi, observing local customs and interacting with residents. The stark beauty of the surrounding arid landscape contrasts with the vibrant culture of the villages, making for incredible photography and cultural immersion opportunities. Evenings in Lo Manthang are serene, with spectacular sunset views over the hills and plateaus, providing a perfect setting to relax, reflect, and appreciate the mystical charm of Upper Mustang.

Day 4: Lo Manthang to Kagbeni – via Muktinath (Optional) – Drive (6–7 hours)

Today, trekkers have the option to drive from Lo Manthang back to Kagbeni via Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The drive takes you through the stark, desert-like landscapes of Upper Mustang, passing deep canyons, winding roads, and scattered villages. En route, the majestic Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri ranges provide a stunning backdrop, and the journey offers a perfect combination of cultural exploration and breathtaking scenery.

Muktinath is famous for its temple and natural springs, where pilgrims perform rituals believed to cleanse the body and soul. Stopping here allows trekkers to experience the spiritual significance of the region and admire the blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Continuing the drive to Kagbeni, you return to the charming riverside village, where the evening can be spent resting, interacting with locals, and enjoying the serene sunset views over the Kali Gandaki valley. This optional route combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty in one memorable day.

Day 5: Kagbeni to Pokhara – Drive (5–6 hours)

Today marks the journey back from the remote landscapes of Upper Mustang to the tranquil city of Pokhara. Driving along the Kali Gandaki Valley, you pass through dramatic cliffs, terraced fields, and traditional villages, witnessing the gradual transition from the arid Mustang plateau to the lush lower Himalayan valleys. The scenic drive allows trekkers to relax while reflecting on the unique cultural and natural experiences of the Mustang region.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, trekkers can enjoy the serene ambiance of Phewa Lake, explore local markets, or simply rest in comfortable accommodation. The evening offers a chance to savor Nepali cuisine, enjoy lakeside views, and unwind after the adventure-filled days in Upper Mustang. Pokhara provides the perfect setting to recharge before returning to Kathmandu or continuing onward in Nepal.