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Hotel in Kathmandu / Pokhara and Tea House / Lodge during the trek
Upper Mustang Trekking is one of the most fascinating and culturally rich trekking adventures in Nepal, offering a rare journey into the hidden Himalayan kingdom of the Mustang region. Located in the north-central part of Nepal, Upper Mustang is a remote trans-Himalayan landscape that preserves ancient Tibetan-influenced culture, traditions, monasteries, and centuries-old settlements. Odea Services organizes this extraordinary trekking experience for travelers who want to explore a unique combination of natural beauty, historical heritage, and authentic mountain lifestyles.
The Upper Mustang region was once an independent kingdom and is still known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom” of Nepal because of its long isolation from the outside world. The trek takes you through dramatic landscapes filled with colorful cliffs, deep valleys, ancient caves, high mountain passes, and traditional villages built with stone and sun-dried mud bricks. The journey begins with cultural exploration in Kathmandu, continues through the beautiful lake city of Pokhara, and includes a scenic mountain flight from Pokhara to Jomsom through the world’s deepest Kali Gandaki Gorge.
During the trek, travelers explore famous settlements such as Kagbeni, Chele, Ghami, Charang, and the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang. The ancient monasteries, including Ghar Gompa and other Buddhist heritage sites, provide a deep insight into the spiritual traditions of the region. The royal palace of Lo Manthang, ancient Buddhist murals, prayer walls, and traditional lifestyles make this trek a remarkable cultural experience.
Upper Mustang Trekking with Odea Services is designed to provide a comfortable and memorable adventure while maintaining respect for local culture and nature. Our experienced guides ensure safe navigation, cultural interaction, and a meaningful Himalayan journey through one of Nepal’s most unique destinations.
Upper Mustang Trekking is considered one of the best trekking adventures in Nepal because it can be visited for a longer period compared to many other Himalayan trekking regions. Due to its location in the rain shadow area of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, Upper Mustang receives very little rainfall during the monsoon season. This unique geographical feature makes it possible to trek even when many other trekking destinations in Nepal experience heavy rain.
The best seasons for Upper Mustang Trekking are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During spring, the weather is pleasant, with clear mountain views, comfortable temperatures, and beautiful landscapes decorated with blooming flowers. The villages become lively, and trekkers can enjoy peaceful trails while observing the traditional lifestyle of local communities.
Autumn is considered the most popular season for the Upper Mustang Trek because of its stable weather conditions and excellent visibility. The skies remain clear, offering breathtaking views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other Himalayan peaks. The dry trails and moderate temperatures make walking comfortable and enjoyable.
Summer (June to August) is also suitable for Upper Mustang because the region lies in a rain-shadow zone. During this period, the trails remain relatively dry, and fewer tourists visit, providing a quieter trekking experience. Winter (December to February) is possible for experienced trekkers, but extremely cold temperatures, snowfall, and limited accommodation facilities can make the journey more challenging.
Odea Services helps travelers select the ideal trekking season according to their preferences, fitness level, and travel schedule. Our team provides proper guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable Upper Mustang adventure throughout the year.
Best Seasons for Upper Mustang Trekking:
Upper Mustang Trekking is considered a moderate-level trekking adventure in Nepal, suitable for trekkers who have a reasonable level of fitness and a passion for exploring remote Himalayan landscapes. Although the trek does not require advanced mountaineering skills, walking through high-altitude terrain, dry valleys, rocky trails, and mountain passes requires good physical preparation. The trekking route reaches an altitude of around 3,840 meters at Lo Manthang, with several uphill and downhill sections throughout the journey.
The trek usually involves walking approximately 5 to 7 hours per day through diverse landscapes, including ancient villages, desert-like cliffs, river valleys, and high mountain trails. Proper acclimatization is important because the altitude gradually increases as you move from Kagbeni toward the Upper Mustang region. Odea Services carefully designs the itinerary with sufficient rest periods and gradual altitude gain to help trekkers adjust comfortably and enjoy the journey safely.
Transportation is an important part of the Upper Mustang Trekking experience. The adventure begins with cultural sightseeing in Kathmandu, followed by a scenic drive or short flight to Pokhara. From Pokhara, trekkers enjoy one of Nepal’s most spectacular mountain flights to Jomsom, passing above the Kali Gandaki Gorge with breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and other Himalayan peaks. The trek officially begins from Jomsom, continuing through Kagbeni, Chele, Ghami, Charang, and finally reaching Lo Manthang.
After completing the trek, transportation continues from Jomsom back to Pokhara by scenic flight. Travelers can then choose a flight or road journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Odea Services manages all transportation arrangements, including airport transfers, domestic flights, and local transportation, ensuring a smooth and comfortable trekking experience.
Upper Mustang Trekking Difficulty and Transportation Highlights:
Food and accommodation play an important role in making your Upper Mustang Trekking experience comfortable and enjoyable. Since Upper Mustang is a remote Himalayan region, accommodation facilities are mainly based on traditional local lodges and guesthouses. These lodges provide clean rooms, comfortable beds, warm dining areas, and an opportunity to experience authentic mountain hospitality. Odea Services carefully selects reliable accommodations throughout the trekking route to ensure safety, cleanliness, and comfort for all travelers.
During the trekking period, accommodation is arranged in local teahouses and guesthouses located in villages such as Kagbeni, Chele, Gilling, Charang, Lo Manthang, Ghami, Muktinath, and Jomsom. Most lodges offer basic but comfortable facilities, including twin-sharing rooms, blankets, and common dining areas. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, travelers stay in comfortable 3-star category hotels with modern facilities and convenient locations.
Food during the Upper Mustang Trek provides enough energy for long days of walking in high-altitude environments. Local lodges serve a variety of nutritious meals including traditional Nepali, Tibetan, and simple international dishes. The famous trekking meal, Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), is a popular choice because it provides balanced nutrition and energy. Other available meals include noodles, pasta, soups, bread, eggs, potatoes, vegetables, and seasonal local dishes.
Odea Services focuses on providing hygienic meals and comfortable accommodation while allowing travelers to experience the authentic lifestyle of the Mustang region. Our trekking team assists with meal planning and ensures that dietary requirements are considered whenever possible.
Food and Accommodation Features:
Upper Mustang is a restricted trekking area in Nepal because of its unique cultural heritage, sensitive environment, and location near the Tibetan border. Therefore, every foreign traveler must obtain special trekking permits before entering the Upper Mustang region. Odea Services takes care of all necessary permit arrangements to make the trekking process simple and convenient for travelers.
The main permit required for Upper Mustang Trekking is the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) issued by the Government of Nepal. Trekkers must enter Upper Mustang through an authorized trekking agency and travel with a licensed guide. The permit helps regulate tourism activities while supporting conservation efforts and protecting the ancient traditions, monasteries, and cultural heritage of the region.
In addition to the Restricted Area Permit, trekkers also need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) because the trekking route passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area. These permits contribute to environmental protection, trail maintenance, and community development projects in the Himalayan region.
The permit requirements include a valid passport, Nepal visa, passport-size photographs, and necessary travel documents. Individual trekking without an authorized agency is not allowed in Upper Mustang, making it essential to choose a trusted trekking company like Odea Services.
Our experienced team handles the entire permit process before the trek begins, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying the adventure. We ensure that all documentation is properly completed and that the journey follows Nepal’s trekking regulations.
Upper Mustang Trekking Permit Information:
Choosing the right trekking company is essential for a safe, comfortable, and memorable Himalayan adventure. Odea Services provides professionally organized Upper Mustang Trekking packages designed to offer travelers an authentic experience of Nepal’s hidden kingdom. With experienced trekking guides, carefully planned itineraries, and personalized services, we ensure that every traveler enjoys the beauty, culture, and adventure of Upper Mustang.
Odea Services understands that Upper Mustang is more than just a trekking destination; it is a journey through ancient history, Tibetan-influenced culture, sacred monasteries, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Our experienced local guides provide valuable knowledge about Mustang’s traditions, villages, Buddhist heritage, and natural attractions. From Kathmandu sightseeing to the scenic flight between Pokhara and Jomsom, we manage every detail to create a smooth travel experience.
Safety and customer satisfaction are our highest priorities. We provide proper planning, reliable transportation, quality accommodation, and continuous support throughout the trek. Our team helps trekkers with altitude awareness, route guidance, permit arrangements, and local communication, ensuring a worry-free adventure.
By choosing Odea Services, travelers also contribute to responsible tourism by supporting local communities and respecting the cultural heritage of the Mustang region. We focus on sustainable trekking practices that protect the environment while creating meaningful connections between visitors and local people.
Why Trek Upper Mustang with Odea Services:
Our airport representative will receive you at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) and transfer you to your hotel. Depending upon the time of your arrival, the pre-trip meeting will be hosted either on the first day or the first hour of the second day. During the evening, you will be taken for a traditional Nepali welcome dinner . Overnight at a Hotel. Welcome dinner included.
Accommodation 3*** Hotel 
Meals Welcome Dinner 
Max. altitude 1,345m / 4,413ft. After your morning breakfast, you will be received by your guide for the sightseeing at Kathmandu Valley. The sites you will be taken for are:
Patan Durbar Square: One of the best attractions here is the ancient royal palace of the Malla Kings of Lalitpur. There are various other temples such as Krishna Mandir, Bhimsen Temple, TalejuBhawani Temple etc. and the Patan Museum to explore.
Pashupatinath Temple: The holy Hindu temple, Pashupatinath is the temple of Lord Shiva and also comprises of many other temples. This UNESCO world heritage site is magnificent in structure and the holy Bagmati River that flows alongside is where cremation rituals is performed.
Boudhanath Stupa: Situated on the northeastern outskirts of Kathmandu, this is another holy place for Buddhists. The dome, mandala, pinnacle, umbrella and the whole Stupa itself is a true works of art and beauty. Recently renovated Stupa post-earthquake gives serenity in the crowded city. Overnight at hotel. Breakfast included.
Accommodation 3*** Hotel Meals Breakfast Included Max. altitude 1,345m / 4,413ft. After breakfast, you have the choice to either fly or drive to Pokhara, the famous city of lakes. You can confirm your preferred mode of travel during the booking process. The flight takes approximately 25-30 minutes, while the drive takes around 7 hours to reach this popular destination. Upon arrival in Pokhara, our representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. You can then spend the rest of the day sightseeing in Pokhara, which may include activities such as boating at Fewa Lake, visiting the International Mountain Museum, and exploring the World Peace Pagoda. You will stay overnight at a hotel, with breakfast included.
Accommodation 3*** Hotel Meals Breakfast Included Max. altitude 900m / 2,953ft. After the morning breakfast, you are taken to the airport. A super scenic flight of 20 minutes through the deepest gorge in the world Kaligandaki and the glorious view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri brings you to Jomsom, the headquarters of Mustang district. Jomsom is a windy valley considered as the trail of the age-old Trans-Himalayan Salt Trade route to Tibet. Jomsom is the beginning point of our trek. After landing here we start walking towardsKagbeni which takes about 3-4 hours. You can enjoy the majestic view of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukuche while trekking through the trail in the opposite direction. Overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Accommodation Local Lodge Meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Max. altitude 2,858m / 9,377ft. After morning tea, we start early to avoid the Jomsom wind. We take the western route along the eastern bank of Kali Gandaki, climbing over many ridges as we head north until we reach the broad valley of Chuksang. The scenery here is breathtaking, with red sandstone pillars and rock formations shaped by thousands of years of erosion, displaying fantastic forms and colors. Departing from Chuksang, the first main village we reach is Tangbe, known for its red and whitewashed houses. On the opposite side of the river from Tangbe, there are caves perched high in a vertical wall, which were once believed to be habitations. After 5-6 hours of walking from Kagbeni, we arrive at Chaile, a small town with stunning views of the Himalayan ranges. We will be staying overnight at a guesthouse, and breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.
Accommodation Local Lodge Meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Max. altitude 3,030m / 9,941ft. From Chele, the trail ascends towards Samar. After about one hour we are on a pass offering a good view towards Samar, the Kali Gandaki valley and snow-capped peaks in the distance. After reaching Samar we cross a side-valley, descending to its base and crossing over a creek. About two hours from Samar is a red painted cave monastery, which looks as if it has been stuck on to the vertical wall, RangchyungChorten, one of the most sacred places in Mustang can be seen. The name means ‘the chorten that formed itself’, because inside are two large stalagmites in a chorten-like formation. Two famous Buddhist teachers, Padmasambhava and Atisha stayed in this cave centuries ago. From there one can enter another valley filled with juniper trees and drops to Bhena (3800m) and trail ascends goes to the place of Giling . Walking time takes approximately 6/7 hours.Overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.
Accommodation Local Lodge Meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Max. altitude 3,720m / 12,205ft. From Gilling, the trail climbs up gently through the field up the center of the valley; it passes above Tama Gaon imposing Chorten. After crossing Tangmar Chu River, with a short climb enters Charang (3490m). Walking time takes about 5/6 hours. Overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Accommodation Local Lodge Meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Max. altitude 3,490m / 11,450ft. We spend our morning exploring the interesting village of charang and its large monastery before setting out for lomanthang. We climb gently above the valley to a large isolated Chorten that marks the boundary between Charang and Lo Manthang. The trail then broadens and eventually, we get our first view of the walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital city of upper Mustang.Overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Accommodation Local Lodge Meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Max. altitude 3,840m / 12,598ft. Today, you are free to explore the fascinating Village of Lo Manthang. The city contains about 150 houses thatresides lamas. There are four major temples in the village and one of these, ChampaLhakang, contains a huge clay statue of Buddha as well as elaborated mandalas painted on the walls. The king's palace is an imposing building in the center of the city and is occupied by the current King and Queen. Although his duties are largely ceremonial, the King is respected by the people. Throughout the kingdom, the villagers continue to seek his advice regarding many issues. It is possible to hire horses to visit these valleys, but this short tour will incur extra costs. Overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.
Accommodation Local Lodge Meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Max. altitude 1,345m / 4,413ft. We begin our return journey from Lo Manthang, taking the upper highland route. This highland route offers dramatic views of Lo Manthang and the Charang Valley, with snow clad peaks in the background. Just past the settlement of Lo Gekar, we reach the oldest monastery in Mustang, the GharGompa. We continue our journey on the highland route, crossing alpine meadows before dropping down a steep eroded gully to Dhakmar for lunch. After lunch, we walk through the pretty valley, climb to a ridge and descend from there back to Ghami.Overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.
Accommodation Local Lodge Meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Max. altitude 3,460m / 11,352ft. With the majestic view of Dhaulagiri and Nil Giri mountains we take lower trail via RachenGompa from Shyanboochen. RachenGompa is a mysterious gompa grown itself on the lap of the rocky cave. We continue to Samar and then to Chaile.Overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.
Accommodation Local Lodge Meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Max. altitude 3,030m / 9,941ft. Now we must retrace our route back over the Nyi La to Chhuksang for a while and then can take upper route to Muktinath a Hindu’s temple located on the highest mountain 3900M. Muktinath temple is famous for Hindus and Buddhist. There are 108 springs offering the fresh sprouting water shower for pilgrims which have their source in or around Muktinath and bathing here is believed to bring good luck. Many people also collect the spring water in bottles to take home to relatives. Also at Muktinath is the legendary flame coming out of a rock, around which a Buddhist temple has been created. Overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Accommodation Local Lodge Meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Max. altitude 3,900m / 12,795ft. It’s quite a long foothill excursion from Muktinath to Jomsom. First, we climb up the Lubra hill and descend to the Lubra village one of the Thakali villages in this area. The stunning views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche, and other surrounding peaks are overwhelming. The wide and flat trail leads us to the district headquarters of Mustang, Jomsom along the Kaligandaki River. Overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Accommodation Local Lodge Meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Max. altitude 2,743m / 8,999ft. We take an early morning 20-minute flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. The day we give you a chance to explore the beautiful valley of Pokhara with its Natural and cultural beauty. Overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast and lunch Included.
Accommodation 3*** Hotel Meals Breakfast and Lunch Max. altitude 900m / 2,953ft. Wake up early in the morning and prepare to head back to Kathmandu. You can opt for a flight or a drive which will take 30 mins and 7 hours respectively. The confirmation of the travel choice can be made during the bookings. Upon arrival at Kathmandu, you will be met and transferred back to the hotel. Overnight at Hotel. Breakfast included.
Accommodation 3*** Hotel Meals Breakfast Included Max. altitude 1,345m / 4,413ft. This is your last day in Kathmandu. After breakfast, you will be fetched by our guide; 3 hours prior to your flight time and drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. Breakfast Included.
Accommodation 3*** Hotel Meals Breakfast Included Max. altitude 1,345m / 4,413ft. 
Your Start Date is the day you land in Nepal, and your End Date is when you fly home.
If the set Upper Mustang Trekking group dates don’t suit your schedule, we can offer alternative dates upon request.
Proper layering is important to stay warm and comfortable in changing mountain weather.
Good footwear makes trekking easier and safer.
The right gear keeps you safe, comfortable, and prepared.
Lightweight but important items keep you clean, healthy, and comfortable.
Keep important items safe and easy to reach.
I been trekking in Nepal for 5-time's and Odea Services (Devi) are my only choice of agent in Nepal. Devi are reliable and honest person. Price is worth for giving quality accommodation, food and professional guide. Odea Services have enough main power to handle group of 1 to 30 or more treker in a group trek. No worry to trek with Odea Services.
Upper Mustang is a remote and culturally rich region in Nepal, often referred to as "the last forbidden kingdom." The trek takes you through stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and traditional Tibetan-style villages. It offers a glimpse into a unique culture that has remained relatively untouched by modernization. The highlight of the trek is the ancient capital of Lo Manthang, where you can explore its traditional architecture and Buddhist heritage.
The Upper Mustang trek is classified as moderate to challenging. Trekkers should be prepared for high-altitude conditions, as parts of the trek reach elevations of over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). While technical climbing is not required, a good level of fitness and prior trekking experience is beneficial. The terrain can be rugged, and the weather conditions may vary.
Altitude sickness is a risk in Upper Mustang due to the high elevations. To minimize this risk, ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and take acclimatization days as needed. Be aware of the symptoms, which can include headache, nausea, and dizziness. If you experience severe symptoms, descend to a lower altitude immediately.
Solo trekking in Upper Mustang is not permitted without a guide due to the region’s restricted status. Trekkers must travel with a registered guide or as part of an organized group. This regulation helps preserve the local culture and environment while ensuring the safety of trekkers.
Upper Mustang is home to various wildlife, including blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, and different bird species. While sightings are not guaranteed, the region’s unique ecosystem offers opportunities to observe wildlife in its natural habitat, particularly in more remote areas.
The Upper Mustang region is rich in Tibetan culture and heritage. You’ll have opportunities to visit ancient monasteries, interact with local communities, and witness traditional festivals and rituals. The architecture of Lo Manthang and other villages reflects centuries of history and cultural significance. Engaging with local people and learning about their way of life can be a rewarding aspect of your trek.
Respecting local customs and traditions is vital while trekking in Upper Mustang. Always ask permission before taking photos of people or religious sites. Dress modestly, particularly when visiting monasteries, and be mindful of local customs related to religion and spirituality. Learning a few basic Nepali phrases can also enhance your interactions with locals.
The best times for trekking in Upper Mustang are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is generally stable with clear skies, making it ideal for stunning views and enjoyable trekking conditions. The summer months can be quite hot, while the winter months may bring heavy snowfall, making access challenging.
Yes, a special trekking permit is required to enter Upper Mustang. This permit is issued by the Nepalese government and can be obtained through registered trekking agencies in Nepal. It is more expensive than regular trekking permits due to the remote nature of the region. Additionally, a Restricted Area Permit is required, which is typically arranged by your trekking agency.
While trekking in Upper Mustang, hiring a guide is highly recommended. A guide can provide valuable insights into the culture, history, and geography of the region, ensuring a more enriching experience. Porters are also advisable if you prefer to lighten your load during the trek. Traveling with a local guide and porter supports the local economy and enhances your safety and enjoyment.
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for trekking in Upper Mustang. Ensure your policy covers high-altitude trekking, medical expenses, and emergency evacuation. Accidents can occur, and having insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen events.
Accommodations in Upper Mustang vary from basic tea houses to more comfortable guesthouses, especially in Lo Manthang. Facilities are more limited compared to popular trekking routes like Annapurna or Everest, so expect simpler amenities. It's advisable to bring a sleeping bag for added comfort, especially in colder months.
Food options in Upper Mustang are generally simple but hearty, with many tea houses offering a mix of Nepali, Tibetan, and some Western cuisine. Common dishes include dal bhat (lentils and rice), momo (dumplings), noodles, and soups. While vegetarian options are available, the availability of fresh vegetables may vary, especially at higher altitudes.
Mobile network coverage can be limited in Upper Mustang, but you may find connectivity in larger towns like Jomsom and Lo Manthang. Some tea houses offer Wi-Fi, but it can be slow and unreliable. It’s a good idea to inform family or friends about your trekking schedule and check in when possible.
Packing appropriately is essential for a successful trek in Upper Mustang. Key items include sturdy trekking boots, warm and layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), a good-quality sleeping bag, and trekking poles. Don’t forget to carry a first-aid kit, personal hygiene items, and water purification tablets, as access to clean drinking water may be limited.
| No of people | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | $1,350 |
| 2 - 4 | $1,300 |
| 5 - 7 | $1,270 |
| 8 - 12 | $1,250 |
| 13 - 20 | $1,225 |
| No of people | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | $2,200 |
| 2 - 4 | $1,950 |
| 5 - 13 | $1,900 |
| 14 - 30 | $1,850 |
