Upper Mustang Trek 18 days
Best: Spring / Autumn
Min. 2 travelers
Upper Mustang & Annapurna Circuit
INR 197,500
Two remarkable Himalayan worlds in one journey.
A 26-day adventure combining the classic Annapurna Circuit, Thorong La and the remote, culturally distinctive landscapes of Upper Mustang.
Get your personalized Upper Mustang plan in 60 seconds
Answer a few quick questions → get your custom itinerary + price.
- 4.9/5 rating
- 15+ years
- 15,000+ trekkers
“We went to Everest Base Camp through Himalayan Wonders. One of the greatest experiences of my life was made so much enjoyable by this team! Garba Rai, my guide, was amazing throughout - every day he would take care of my little needs like I was his family…”
Guru Kulkarni
Trekking Facts
- Trek Name
- Upper Mustang Trek
- Best Season
- Spring (March–June) Autumn(Sept-November)
- Transportation
- By Tourist Bus / Private Vehicles and Flight.
- Accommodation
- Hotel, Resort & Tea house /camping
- Grade
- Fairly Strenuous
- Highest Point
- 4200m.
- Duration
- 18 Days
- Group Size
- Min. 1 to Max. 10 Person
- Culture
- Buddhist Culture
Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary
Day 1
Kathmandu: Arrival Day
Welcome to Nepal! A representative will be waiting to welcome you to Tribhuvan International Airport and bring you to your hotel in Kathmandu. It's been a long flight, so enjoy the chance to rest! This evening, we'll hold a briefing on your adventure and what to expect regarding the trek.
Day 2
Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Prep
Kathmandu is one of the world's great historic and spiritual landmarks. It contains more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other city in the world, and we'll be visiting some today as part of a whole day of sightseeing. We’ll visit Boudhanath, the world's largest Buddhist stupa, as well as the "monkey temple" of Swayambhunath and the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath. We'll also see the historic and famous Durbar Square. You'll also have a chance to pick up any needed gear or clothing from Kathmandu's many trekking and mountaineering supply shops. This evening, you’ll be introduced to your trip leader and have the opportunity to have any last-minute questions answered
Day 3
Kathmandu to Pokhara
We board the bus to Pokhara at around 6:00am today. The overland trip takes about six hours, leaving you the rest of the day to explore this popular city and ready yourself for the official start of our trek tomorrow.
Day 4
Pokhara to Jomsom, Jomsom to Kagbeni
We hop a brief flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, where our trek officially begins - it's just 20 or 25 minutes in the air, but it's an exciting burst! You'll see the world's deepest gorge from overhead, and drink in spectacular aerial views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, the Annapurna range, and "Fishtail" Mountain. We set out on foot from Jomsom, the seat of the Kali Gandaki valley. We’ll trek 3-4 hours in the direction of Kagbeni, the checkpoint for the restricted trail to the Upper Mustang. We'll enjoy gorgeous mountain views on our first walk, and end the night in a cozy tea house or lodge.
Day 5
Kagbeni to Chele
We kick off early again today! The Upper Mustang distinguishes itself from other Himalayan treks with a high wind that tends to get going later in the day. Consequently, we take advantage of the clement mornings as much as we can. Plus, we get the opportunity to watch the sun rising over Nilgiri. We start trekking along the east bank of the river, ending up in the Chuksang Valley and crossing the Kali Gandaki. The trail ascends to flat, dry land with the red sandstone pillars and colorful rock formations that are emblematic of the Mustang region. We’ll pass the village of Tangbe first, and then attain Chele with its stunning Himalayan views.
Day 6
Chele to Syangboche
The trail curves westward today, and we climb steeply until we can see Jayakar peering back over the other side of a deep canyon. We follow the gorge at a right-hand turn in the trail to a very steep drop, and then cross a high pass with a great view of Samar and many snow-capped peaks. After passing Samar we come across Rangchyung chorten, the red-painted cave monastery and one of the Mustang region's holiest sites. The name translates as, "the chorten that formed itself," owing to the unusual development of stalagmites inside. Over the years, prayer flags and clay statues left by pilgrims have accumulated in the chorten. The final wal to Syangboche can feel longer than it actually is, owing to the fact that this leg of the trek involves near-constant ascent with no destination in sight. The chill of the higher altitude is with us when we finally get to the small village.
Day 7
Syangboche to Ghami
Today’s trek kicks off eventfully - within the first fifteen minutes of walking, we will have already encountered the first of three (!) high passes we’ll have to negotiate today. After braving Yanda La, we pass a distinctive red chorten emblazoned with an octet of auspicious Buddhist symbols. Two red gompas mark the entrance to the sprawling, thriving village of Ghelung. The brown hills rising beyond the village hearken the Nyi La pass, followed fairly quickly by the Ghami La pass. We cross another broad valley and then arrive in Ghami, another of the largest villages in the Mustang.
Day 8
Ghami to Tsarang
The longest mani wall in the Mustang is found just outside Ghami, followed by a cluster of chortens surrounding the red wall that marks the end of the valley. The structures are notable for blending seamlessly in with the landscape. We climb steadily today, ending on a high pass that leads to a lunar-esque landscape rolling with barren hills and strange, eerie beauty. We'll know we're re-approaching civilization when we spot the distinctive, red-painted Tsarang chorten, which designates the entrance to Tsarang village.
Day 9
10 - Tsarang to Lo Manthang, Acclimatization Day
Uninterrupted barrenness awaits us on our long trek today. The terrain is flat and the view is one of unbroken isolation. The village of Lo Manthang, our stopping point, is flanked by two large rocks forming a natural gate. We'll linger here for two days as we acclimatize to the higher elevation and rest our tired legs! This gives you the chance to explore the village and the surrounding area.
Day 11
Lo Manthang to Tamar
Fragrant juniper pastures scent our way to Tamar, and the official turning point of our trek. We’ll get to look back at Lo Manthang as we head back the same side of the Kali Gandaki by which we first approached, avoiding the more remote and strenuous path to the east. We bid farewell to the Plain of Prayers and start ascending towards Lugri La pass, and its associated monastery. Tamar is not far, now, and your eyes will delight in the more varied landscape of the northwest. Leaving the monastery, we have a short but steep walk down the yellow canyon to Tamar, seeing fields in the southern and western part of the valley and large red vertical cliffs in the North West. After so many days of uninterrupted red earth and few color contrasts, the combination of red rock, blue sky, green grass and white yaks seems very intense!
Day 12
Tamar to Syangboche
With Nilgiri visible again, we pass yet more caves on our way back south. A gradual uphill climb brings us above Ghami, affording sights of the village, the long mani wall, and the pass we climbed five days ago! Navigating two more passes rewards us with splendid views of the Annapurna range. Next, we reach Ja Myung, a village situated at the fork between Ghelung and Syangboche. We'll first detour to Ghelung, to pass two notable gompas and a monastery, and then rejoin the traditional path to Syangboche.
Day 13
Syangboche to Tentang
Vigorous trekking again awaits us today, as we pass Samar and then Gaikar on the return trail. We'll savor exquisite views of Tilicho and Nilgiri, and then rest at Chaile for lunch. We are now returning the way we came, although, in the tradition of trekking everywhere, it will feel quite different from the same route we hiked in the opposite direction. Views are different, and perspectives change after many days in the wilderness.
Day 14
Tentang to Muktinath
Our departure today treats us to a good view of the village of Tetang, which consists of two separate settlements surrounded by high walls. From a distance, it resembles nothing so much as a large fort! The ascent to the next plateau is steep and the trail here can be tough to follow!. Luckily, our next leg brings an easy walk over a plain.We'll need it to prepare for three hours of steep uphill hiking, at the top of which we're treated to stunning views of Thorung, Tilicho, and Annapurna. After this, it's an easy enough walk to Muktinath, which is strongly associated with local legend and spiritual lore.
Day 15
Muktinath to Jomsom
Today is our final day of hiking, and we kick it off early to appreciate the majesty of Dhaulagiri backlit by the warm rays of the rising sun. We'll treat ourselves to a side trip to the Bon Punt monastery in Lubra before walking back to Jomsom. After Lubra, the trail leads to the Kali Gandaki and the river Panga - we'll have to leap over it a couple of times before the day is through! Where the two rivers meet, we join the main trekking path back to Jomsom.
Day 16
Jomsom to Pokhara
We're up very early again for a Jomsom-Pokhara flight, only this time flying in reverse of the way we came two weeks ago! After bringing you to your hotel, you’ll have ample time to explore Pokhara's stunning scenery and rich cultural attractions at your own pace.
Day 17
Pokhara to Kathmandu
We'll return to Kathmandu from Pokhara today, either by bus or small plane. One is longer than the other, but both afford heartstopping mountain views that you will treasure on this, your last full day in Nepal. In celebration of an amazing trip, you'll be our guests tonight as we host a farewell dinner at an excellent Nepalese restaurant in town.
Day 18
Kathmandu: Departure Day
We bid you farewell today as our travels together draw to a close. We'll get you to the airport, or simply say goodbye as you move on to your next adventure. Remember to trade email addresses with members of your tour group! We always appreciate our guests' feedback, so don't hesitate to share your thoughts on the trekking experience.
Upper Mustang Trek Gallery
What's Included
- All airport transfers from arrival to departure
- 12 day trek, all accommodations and meals included *
- 3 nights accommodation in Kathmandu
- 2 nights accommodation in Pokhara
- Round-trip airfare between Pokhara and Jomsom
- Fully-licensed, English-speaking guide
- Porter service **
- All applicable permits & TIMS CARD
- Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
- Government taxes, entrance fee, equipment fee, and other applicable fees
- First aid kit
- Trip Certificate
- Farewell Dinner
Why Base Camp Hikes
15+ Years in the Himalayas
Decades of experience planning and operating treks across Nepal and the Everest region.
Experienced Sherpa Guides
Trek with experienced local guides who know the Everest trail, altitude, weather and mountain conditions.
Real Humans on WhatsApp
Speak directly with our team before, during and after your trek — without call-centre handoffs.
Complete Trek Logistics
Transfers, permits, accommodation, flights and trekking arrangements are coordinated by one team.
Trusted & Officially Registered in Nepal
Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) · TAAN · Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) · verify our TAAN membership →
Meet Your Trek Experts
Real people in Kathmandu and India who plan your trip and answer your questions - not a call centre.
Nishes Thapa
Operations Director
Oversees operations in Nepal with over 15 years of trekking experience in the Himalayas. Works directly with our guides and porters and personally organizes every trek, hand-picking the best guides in the region.
Anand Dongre
Adventure Expert, India Office
Runs our India office operations out of Nagpur. Has trekked in Nepal himself several times and helps coordinate with guests, bringing excellent knowledge of the different treks on offer.
What Travelers Say
Traveler experiences with our parent company, Himalayan Wonders · Source: Tripadvisor
★★★★★
“Went for the EBC trek with Himalayan Wonders a few weeks ago, and it was truly a wonderful experience thanks to their team. Our guide, Mr. Garba Rai, was incredibly helpful, fun, and supportive throughout the journey.”
Aparna Nair Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“Our Everest Base Camp guide (Pasang Dawa) made this journey even more unforgettable. He took great care of us throughout the trek, always making sure we were safe, comfortable, and motivated.”
Charan Teja Reddy Chinthakuntla Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“Had a wonderful time with Bhanu Ji. Superb trek lead, fantastic experience, perfect weather prediction, and great knowledge on all peaks. Thanks!”
Vivek Iyer Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“Ram Prasad Bhattarai was our trek leader, and he was exceptional in every way. He provided clear briefings and well-planned day-by-day schedules, which kept everything organized and stress-free, and he always made sure the whole group stayed safe.”
Vajeeram Bhoopalan Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“We went to Everest Base Camp through Himalayan Wonders. One of the greatest experiences of my life was made so much enjoyable by this team! Garba Rai, my guide, was amazing throughout - every day he would take care of my little needs like I was his family…”
Guru Kulkarni Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“I had an incredible experience with Himalayan Wonders on my Everest Base Camp trek. From start to finish, everything was handled professionally and with great attention to detail.”
Ashish Thakral Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“Our recent Annapurna Circuit Trek done with the wonderful support of Himalayan Wonders has been a great experience. They took utmost care of our group of 5 friends from Kathmandu airport up to the completion of the trek.”
Vaijayanti Ingawale Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“Good humble guides, good support, good back up at remote areas, good team and flexible with group travel. Travelled with my son.”
Praveen Kumar Manchi Laxminarayana Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“6 of us went for EBC trek in Oct first week 2024. Lots of uncertainty due to floods and weather conditions - Himalayan Wonders took care of the flights, choppers, anything, in a very short notice.”
Krishna Kumar Lakshmi Prakash Read this review on TripAdvisor →
From the Trail
From the Trail: Guest Videos
Still deciding?
Take the 60-second trip quiz.
Tell us your days, style, and travel month — we'll match the right itinerary and send a tailored plan.
60-SECOND NEPAL QUIZ
Book With Confidence
Enquiring costs nothing and commits you to nothing. Here's exactly what happens next.
- Send your enquiry Takes about a minute. No payment, no obligation.
- Talk to a trek expert A real person from our team replies, usually within 24 hours.
- Shape your itinerary Adjust dates, pace, group size or route until it fits you.
- Confirm when you're ready Only once every detail is agreed and you're happy to go ahead.
Top Treks
Upper Mustang Trek Questions
How challenging is the Upper Mustang & Annapurna Circuit for a typical trekker?
The Upper Mustang & Annapurna Circuit is graded Strenuous - you'll be covering serious distance at increasing elevation day after day - worth training for in the weeks before you fly out.
How many days does the complete Upper Mustang & Annapurna Circuit take?
The full Upper Mustang & Annapurna Circuit itinerary runs 26 Days, which includes built-in acclimatization time rather than rushing straight up - the extra days matter more than they might seem to on paper.
When is the best season to experience the Upper Mustang & Annapurna Circuit?
Spring and Autumn are when most people go, and for good reason - skies are clearest, trails are driest, and the mountain views the trek is built around actually show up.
How high does the Upper Mustang & Annapurna Circuit take you?
The Upper Mustang & Annapurna Circuit tops out at 5,416m. The itinerary is paced to get you there gradually rather than quickly, which is the difference between a good trip and a miserable one at that height.
What local culture and communities will you experience on the Upper Mustang & Annapurna Circuit?
The route weaves through Gurung, Thakali, Tibetan-influenced communities settlements, prayer flags and mani walls marking the path - a chance to see mountain life up close rather than glimpse it from a bus window.
Gear You'll Need
Be prepared for changing Himalayan conditions. Here are the essential items we recommend bringing for your trek.
Trekking Boots
Good ankle support and grip for rocky, uneven trails.
Down Jacket
Warmth for cold mornings, evenings and high-altitude nights.
Sleeping Bag
Rated for sub-zero temperatures at teahouse altitudes.
Trekking Poles
Take pressure off your knees on long descents.
Backpack
A daypack for essentials you'll want on the trail.
Headlamp
For pre-dawn starts and teahouses without steady power.
Water Bottle
Reusable and insulated, so it won't freeze overnight.
Sunglasses
UV protection against strong high-altitude glare.
Trek Preparation Guide
Get Trek-Ready
- Build fitness: Walk, hike, or climb stairs regularly before your trek.
- Train for altitude: Include longer walks with gradual elevation gain.
- Pack smart: Carry only essential clothing, gear, medicines, and personal items.
- Break in boots: Wear your trekking shoes before the trip.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and limit alcohol before and during the trek.
- Sleep well: Arrive rested and ready for the trail.
- Prepare for weather: Himalayan conditions can change quickly, so carry suitable layers.
- Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance with trekking and emergency evacuation coverage is recommended.
Useful Trekking Resources
Ready to Plan Your Upper Mustang Trek?
Tell us a few details and a trek expert will send you a tailored itinerary and price.
- Free, no-obligation itinerary
- Reply within 24 hours
- No payment to enquire