Upper Mustang Trekking

Today, you can have an excursion to the prominent landmarks of Kathmandu. A modern city that still retains its traditional values, Kathmandu is an excellent place for sightseers with a special interest in vintage artistic works. If you are confused about where to begin then we are present in your aid! Start your jaunt from the holy Hindu temple of Pashupatinath and discover the sensation of calmness within you in the spiritual atmosphere. Make a stopover at the sacred Buddhist stupas of Swayambhunath and Boudhanath. Surround yourself with the true essence of Tibetan Buddhism as well as witness the sheer magnitude of time-honored stupa structures. Still not satisfied? Then, explore the Basantapur Durbar Complex positioned at the heart of the city to embrace ancient craftsmanship.

Early in the morning, take a drive via a tourist bus; it rests on your personal preferences. Despite the means of transportation you choose, you’ll definitely observe blissful landscapes featuring verdant valleys, lush greenery, sparking mountaintops, raging rivers, rustic villages, hills, and terraced fields. Only the time utilized to conclude the trip varies.  the ground travel will consume nearly 7-8 hours. Some travelers say the aerial vistas are better than what we see from the ground but the fact is it all depends on individuals’ taste and perspective.

Day 04: Flight Pokhara- Jomsom (2,743m); trek to Kagbeni (2,810m) 3 hrs. Possible side-trip, trek from Kagbeni to Muktinath (3,720m) and back (6 hrs):

This morning, we‘ll have a flight to catch bound for the picturesque town of Jomsom. Aerial outlooks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna in close proximity are simply incredible. Once landed, we’ll start our trekking venture and head uphill on the rugged trail across mountainous terrain along Kali Gandaki River to Kagbeni (2,810m). Positioned at the confluence of two rivers, majestic vistas of Mt. Nilgiri can be observed to the south of this quaint settlement famously known as ‘gateway to Upper Mustang’.  If everything goes as scheduled, we’ll probably set off for side-trip to Muktinath which will put additional six hours in our planned itinerary. The path to this holy Hindu Temple is fairly easy and features many minor ups and downs. Pilgrims of both Hindu and Buddhist religions pay their homage to lord Muktinath throughout the year. You’ll unearth the peace of mind in this divine place.

Day 05: Kagbeni (2,810m) - Chele (3,050m) 6 hrs

After inspection of necessary permits at the official check point located near the Kagbeni’s border, we’ll continue our advance alongside Kali Gandaki River only to climb over multiple ridges past many monasteries, caves, and apple orchard to Tangbe. Encircled by farmlands of barley, buckwheat, wheat; this village harbours white-washed houses (constructed from mud and stone) amidst a network of narrow alleys. Thereafter, we’ll resume our trek to Chhusang Village. Getting to the other side of a river, we’ll now leave the Kali Gandaki Valley behind then ascend abruptly to Chele (3,050m).

After inspection of necessary permits at the official check point located near the Kagbeni’s border, we’ll continue our advance alongside Kali Gandaki River only to climb over multiple ridges past many monasteries, caves, and apple orchard to Tangbe. Encircled by farmlands of barley, buckwheat, wheat; this village harbours white-washed houses (constructed from mud and stone) amidst a network of narrow alleys. Thereafter, we’ll resume our trek to Chhusang Village. Getting to the other side of a river, we’ll now leave the Kali Gandaki Valley behind then ascend abruptly to Chele (3,050m).

Proceeding by the side of Mustang Region’s unique reddish red landscapes, we’ll direct our steps up across arid grounds to make a steady descent to Samar (3,620m). We’ll spot the majestic peaks of Nilgiri and Annapurna over the horizon to the south. Ascending on a ridge above Samar, we’ll stay with the trail down to a stupendous gorge then forge ahead through dramatic countryside to traverse a sparkling stream and reach to the vertex of another ridge. Eventually, we’ll descend to Shyangmochen (3,800m).  En route, we’ll walk past the well-renowned Ramchung Cave, one of the sacred sites in Mustang Region. 

Day 07: Syangmochen (3,800m) - Tsarang (3,560m) 7 hrs

This day, we’ll initially trek past a handful of teahouses, chortens and native settlements then negotiate Yamada La Pass (3,850m) to emerge at Geling Village. Afterwards, we’ll navigate beyond Nyi La Pass (4,010m) then Ghami La Pass and continue downhill to Ghami, the third largest village in the region.  The trail steers east to the settlement of Charang from the end of the wall. Subsequently, we’ll climb our way to the other side of moonlike terrain where we’ll spot the unique Tsarang chorten from a distance which point out our closeness with the entrance to Tsarang (3,560m).  The large five-storey white Dzong and red Gompa are the must-visit places in this village.

Day 08: Tsarang (3,560m) - Lo Manthang (3,800m) 4-5 hrs

Accompanied by the sublime vistas of snow-capped peaks such as Tilicho (7,134m), Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Bhrikuti, we’ll climb down to Charang Chu Canyon at first then ascend abruptly after ranging over the river. Thereupon, we’ll gradually advance to the pass of Lo. Here, we can catch glimpses of the Lo-Manthang Valley. Uninterrupted aridness is what we’ll see during this entire trek day. The walled capital of Lo-Manthang appears into the sight as we descend down the hill and march towards its entrance.

Day 09: Rest Day: Explore Lo Manthang (3,800m)

The day nine is allocated as “Rest Day” during which you can render much required break to your tired legs while adapting to the higher elevations. Flanked by two colossal rocks, which creates a natural barrier, Lo Manthang is an awe-inspiring place travel enthusiasts can ever set their feet upon. It once was capital of the ancient kingdom of Mustang.  Appealing gompas, a remarkable five-story royal palace, and traditional houses situated alongside the narrow streets; Lo Manthang has got everything to capture as well as retain your attention.  Explore around to grasp the pristine surrounding of this magnificent village.

Day 10: Day hike to Nyiphu and Garphu monasteries

In day ten our adventure, we’ll go for joyful trip to Garphu Village within Chhoser Valley i.e. located near the Tibetan border to the north of Lo Manthang.  You can either take ponies or a jeep but a fairly easy 2 hours hike to this scenic place has its own charm. After the hike, we’ll finally get to observe Nyiphu and Garphu monasteries. Theses caves are dug right out on a hill flaunting mesmerizing outlooks of the far-northern mountains as backdrops.  Witness the picturesque setting and amazing ancient architecture of these time-worn structures. Once inside, you can find the complex of narrow passages and steep staircase leading to different floors.  Besides that, walk around to take a closer look at wall frescos, scrolls, artefacts, and Buddhist prayer altars. We’ll return to Lo Manthang in the end of the day.

Day 11: Lo Manthang (3,800m) - Dhakmar (3,820m) via Ghar Gumba (Loghekar Monastery) 6 hrs:

With our backpacks behind our backs, we’ll forge ahead on the trail to Dhakmar (3,820m) instead of retracing our steps back to Tsarang. We’ll steadily climb uphill then traverse Chogo La Pass (4,210m), the highest point of our journey.  Descending steeply, we’ll cross the Charang River, move up to Lo Geker then make an appearance at Ghar Gumba.  This monastery dates back to primeval times (around 1,200 years ago) and flaunts rock wonderful paintings. We’ll now ascend a ridge and progress steadily beyond valley and alpine grasslands. Thereafter, we’ll walk down on a precipitous pathway to Dhakmar (3,820m).

Day 12: Dhakmar (3,820m) - Ghiling (3,570m) 6 hrs

Popular among the trekkers, this scenic segment of trail consists of downhill descents offering splendid outlooks of snowy summits in the distance. We’ll walk gently, taking pleasure of magical vistas initially. As we proceed further, we’ll find ourselves trekking down steeply to the eroded yet beautiful gully. Finally, we arrive at Ghiling (3,570m).

Day 13: Ghiling (3,570m) - Samar (3,550m) 6 hrs

Today, we’ll pursue the route which will take us through many ascends and descends across the remote territories in Nepal, filled with beautiful valleys and canyons of Kali Gandaki River. Passing by Syangboche (3,475m), we’ll cross Bhena La Pass (3 830 m). While crossing the pass, we can see the surroundings of Samar. Succeeding a precipitous descent, we’ll negotiate Jhuwa Khola and enter the village of Samar (3,550m). We can see three colourful chortens at the entrance to the village. Here, we can gaze at some nice views of peaks Nilgiri and Annapurnas.

Day 14: Samar (3,550m) - Kagbeni (2,810m) 6-7 hrs

As we resume our trek, we’ll climb uphill then move down to Chele. We’ll continue on the windy pathway past the Chusang Village and traverse barley, wheat farmlands, apple orchards, sparse settlements with whitewashed houses to reach Kagbeni (2,800m). During our advancement on this long yet easy trail, we’ll be constantly followed by the exquisite vistas of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Tukuche.

Day 15: Kagbeni (2,810m) - Jomsom (2,750m) 3 hrs:

In the last trekking day of our adventure, we’ll keep on with our descent and pass by Ekle Bhatti (2,740m). We must start our trek early in the morning as the strong winds make it difficult to walk during other hours of the day. With easy trail and blissful journey, we’ll ultimately make it to Jomsom (2,750m).

Day 16: Flight Jomsom - Pokhara - Kathmandu

This very day, we’ll pack our bags and get on a flight destined to Pokhara. Once at Pokhara, you can either repose in your hotel room or wander around the picturesque sites in Pokhara City.  Then, we’ll embark on another aircraft to successfully end up at Kathmandu. At Kathmandu, you can go round unvisited landmarks of the while shopping for some souvenirs.

Day 17: Final Departure

We hope to see you again when you arrive in Nepal for your next escapade! Bidding farewells to each other, you’ll be guided to the Kathmandu Airport by one of our staff members, three hours prior to your scheduled flight so that you won’t encounter any minor troubles during your final moments in Nepal. Have a safe flight back to your homeland. Cheers!!