Venture into the ancient kingdom of Lo-Manthang - Mustang, a high-altitude desert of eroded canyons and whitewashed monasteries. This 12-day journey follows the Kali Gandaki valley to Lo Manthang, revealing untouched Tibetan Buddhist culture and stark, breathtaking landscapes.
Venture beyond the well-trodden paths of the Annapurna region and into a world that feels suspended in time. The 12 Days Upper Mustang trek is not merely a walk through the Himalayas; it is a passage into the ancient, walled kingdom of Lo, a place where Tibetan Buddhism thrives in its purest form and the landscape shifts from lush valleys to a high-altitude desert of surreal, eroded canyons. This journey is for those who seek not just adventure, but a profound cultural encounter, following the historic trade route of the Kali Gandaki valley.
As you ascend into this rain-shadowed realm, the very air changes. The trail leads you past whitewashed monasteries adorned with intricate frescoes, through traditional villages where prayer flags snap in the dry wind, and across stark plateaus that feel more like the Tibetan Plateau than Nepal. The 12-day itinerary is thoughtfully paced, allowing for deep immersion in the local culture and the stunning, otherworldly scenery that defines Upper Mustang. From the red cliffs and deep gorges to the iconic, walled city of Lo Manthang, every step reveals a landscape that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. This is a trek that offers a rare glimpse into a living, breathing heritage, set against some of the most dramatic and untouched scenery the Himalayas have to offer.
Because Upper Mustang is a restricted area, permits are strictly limited, ensuring the trail remains quiet and the culture protected. Each day brings a new layer of discovery—from exploring ancient cave dwellings carved into cliff faces to witnessing the daily rhythms of Mustangi life in remote villages. Your guide, an expert in the region’s history and traditions, will share stories of the kingdom’s past and point out details in the thangka paintings and chortens that you might otherwise miss. The journey culminates in Lo Manthang, a walled city that has stood for over five centuries, where you can walk its narrow alleys and feel the weight of history in every stone. This is not just a trek; it is a pilgrimage into a hidden corner of the world, where the silence of the desert and the warmth of the people leave an indelible mark on your soul.
For those with extra time and a desire to explore further, the Upper Mustang trek pairs beautifully with nearby destinations that deepen your Himalayan experience. Consider extending your journey to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, located just a few hours from the trekking route and offering a striking contrast of ancient temples against snowy peaks. Alternatively, the serene town of Kagbeni, with its medieval architecture and dramatic riverside setting, provides a perfect stopover before heading back to Jomsom, where you can catch a flight to Pokhara. These additions enrich your understanding of the region's spiritual and natural diversity without straying far from the magic of Mustang.
Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom & Trek to Kagbeni
Your day begins with a dramatic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, threading the narrow gorge between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. From the window, both 8000-meter peaks flank the valley as you descend onto the windswept airstrip, stepping into the dry, rain-shadowed world of Upper Mustang.
After landing, you trek along the broad, pebbly bed of the Kali Gandaki river, following the ancient trade route north. The gentle three-to-four-hour walk passes scattered villages and fields of buckwheat and barley, with wind kicking up dust. Whitewashed chortens mark your entry into this hidden kingdom.
Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m)
The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River north, passing through the village of Tangbe with its narrow alleys and apple orchards. After crossing a suspension bridge, you ascend to Chele, a small settlement with stunning views of the surrounding cliffs.
Chele to Syangboche (3,800m)
Today's trek takes you through a dramatic landscape of eroded red cliffs and chortens. You'll cross the Taklam La pass and descend into the lush valley of Samar, then continue to Syangboche, a village known for its ancient caves and monasteries.
Syangboche to Ghami (3,520m)
The trail climbs gently through juniper forests and past mani walls, offering panoramic views of the Nilgiri and Annapurna ranges. You'll arrive in Ghami, a traditional Tibetan village with a large gompa and friendly locals.
Ghami to Charang (3,500m)
Cross the Nyi La pass (4,010m) and descend into the Charang valley. The village of Charang is home to a 500-year-old monastery and offers a glimpse into the region's rich Buddhist heritage.
Charang to Lo Manthang (3,840m)
A relatively short trek brings you to the walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang. Explore the four main temples, the royal palace, and the bustling local market.
Explore Lo Manthang & Surroundings
Spend the day exploring the hidden alleys of Lo Manthang, visiting the ancient monasteries and caves. Optional hikes to the nearby Chhoser village or the caves of Luri Gompa offer incredible views and cultural insights.
Lo Manthang to Ghami (3,520m)
Retrace your steps through the scenic landscape, crossing the Nyi La pass again. The descent into Ghami provides a different perspective on the rugged terrain and allows for more interactions with local villagers.
Ghami to Samar (3,660m)
The trail winds through deep gorges and past ancient cave dwellings. You'll stop at the village of Syangboche for lunch before descending to Samar, a peaceful settlement with a beautiful monastery.
Samar to Kagbeni (2,810m)
Descend through the Kali Gandaki valley, passing through the village of Tangbe once more. The final stretch to Kagbeni offers views of the river and the surrounding desert-like hills. Celebrate your trek with a well-deserved rest.
From Kagbeni to Jomsom
From Kagbeni, follow the wide, windswept Kali Gandaki valley as it opens into a broad basin, with four to five hours of gentle walking past buckwheat and barley fields beneath Dhaulagiri's gaze. The trail eases you through stark, scenic beauty.
Arrive in Jomsom, the bustling district headquarters alive with trekkers and locals. This lively hub offers a welcome contrast to the quiet trail.
Morning Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
Your final morning in Jomsom brings crisp, dry air. After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for a scenic flight back to Pokhara, with sweeping views of the Kali Gandaki gorge and the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
This day is for reflection. You have completed a journey into one of the Himalayas’ most protected regions, and the memories of Lo Manthang’s whitewashed walls and wind-sculpted canyons will stay with you long after you return home.
$1,750
$1,685
$1,565
$1,450
$1,395
$1,355
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Before you go
Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
If you’re exploring the Restricted Area Trek, these treks offer a similar blend of mountain scenery, cultural experience, and adventure with different durations and difficulty levels.
Explore the wild beauty of Nar Phu Valley on an 8-day trek through remote Himalayan villages, ancient monasteries, and dramatic landscapes. Perfect for adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Nepal.
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Embark on a classic Himalayan journey around the world's deepest gorge on our 10-day Annapurna Circuit Trek. Starting from Kathmandu and ending in Pokhara, this moderate adventure includes full-board meals, cozy teahouse accommodation, and an expert English-speaking guide. Cross the thrilling
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“November 2025 I have done the Langtang- Gosainkunda -Helambu trek in 16 days organized by the agency Touch the Himalaya Trek & Expedition. Madan Neupane, director of the trekking agency is a friendly and trustworthy person who has a lot of experience in trekking, especially because he has been walking all the treks by himself. He is a great source of information and listened well to my personal wishes! Madan, thanks a lot for your warm welcome with the milk teas at your office and the time you spend in answering all my specific questions. I warmly recommend you and your trekking agency Touch the Himalaya Treks & expedition. In particular I like to mention my guide/porter Ram Adhikari who accompanied me 16 days during the trekking, he is a sincere and pleasant person and is able to communicate in English well. Ram, thank you for your accompany, I really liked the time (and interesting talks about Nepal and ) we had together. I warmly recommend you as a guide/ porter!”
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ABC trek via Poonhill sunrise
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