Upper Mustang pony trek

Upper Mustang pony trek 16 Days US$2999

Facts about horse riding trek to mustang

Horse riding trek to Upper Mustang is a fantastic way to explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture of lower to upper mustang Nepal. Lo Manthang is the highlight of upper mustang pony trek. it is an ancient walled city that is home of former royal family of Mustang. The city is rich in culture and history, visitors can explore its narrow alleys, ancient palaces, cultural heritage and monasteries.  Upper Mustang horse riding trek is a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Horses used for riding in Mustang are of the local breed, known as Tibetan pony. These are well-suited for the terrain and are incredibly sure-footed, making them perfect for navigating the rocky trails. Mustang is a semi-arid region, and the landscape is characterized by deep gorges, rocky cliffs, and barren hills. Horse riding in Upper Mustang is an adventure like no other, it is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Trip Fact

Destination

Mustang, Nepal

Duration

16 Days

Difficulty

Moderate

Group Size

Min 2 Persons

Max altitude

Lo Manthang 3840 Meters

Best time

Spring, Autumn & Monsoon Months

Activities

none

Accommodation

Tea houses / Lodges / Hotels

Meals

3 Meals a day (BLD)

Transportation

Flight, Drive & Walking

Start from

Kathmandu - Pokhara - Jomsom

End at

Jomsom - Pokhara - Kathmandu

Upper Mustang pony trek overview

Are you searching an upper mustang luxury tours option? if yes, select the upper mustang pony trek package. This is the combination of Luxury jeep drive to go and the horse riding to observe the highlights of Mustang area where jeep not accessible. Main attractions of Mustang are royal palace, caves, ancient monasteries, unique landscapes, high mountains, Tibetan culture and the attractive high cliff of Kaligandaki valley etc.

One of the best ways to explore Upper Mustang is by undertaking a pony trek. Pony treks are ideal for those who want to explore mustang but do not have physical ability to undertake a full-blown trek. Horse riding is one of the most popular activities in mustang. Riding through the rugged terrain on horseback is a perfect way to experience local culture, lifestyle the natural beauty of upper mustang Nepal.

With horse riding trek to Upper Mustang package local upper mustang travel guide going address the need of luxury travelers. previous pony riding experience is not necessary to Explore the forbidden Kingdom of Lo. The upper mustang pony trek offers a spectacular trekking experience in the isolated trans-Himalayan region of Nepal. Upper mustang horse riding trek trip begins after scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom Nepal. Upper mustang pony trekking covers all major attraction from lower to upper mustang area including Muktinath. Upper mustang horse riding trip suitable for adventure lover those interested to ride the horse in semi-arid desert of Himalayas.

During this journey you travel through or nearby the ancient Nepal and Tibet trade route. Upper mustang area is a controlled trekking route of Nepal. The Mystical Kingdom of Lo situated in rain shadow area of Himalayas. Possible to visit on the months of monsoon also. Korala is the border area of Nepal and China from this place you can discover the huge area of Tibetan Plateau. Book the Forbidden Kingdom of Lo tours in Upper Mustang Region, Nepal.

Is Upper Mustang pony trek for you?

Mustang valley surrounded by stunning landscapes, including snow-capped mountains and rugged landscape. Pony treks in Upper Mustang are usually led by experienced guides who are familiar with the terrain and the local culture. If you interested to book explore the Kingdom of Lo Manthang Upper Mustang pony trek package program get in touch by email. If you have question and confusion regarding package write us. We are happy to make you clear before booking conformation.

Upper Mustang pony trek highlights

  • Horse riding in Upper mustang on the ancient salt trading caravan route of Kali Gandaki valley.
  • Discover ancient monasteries, caves, wall city, alleys, hermitages that are still in use.
  • Enjoy Horse riding in rough terrain, alpine meadows and moonscape in Mustang Nepal.
  • Meet Loba people to familiar with their culture, tradition, lifestyle influences by Tibetan Buddhism.
  • Horse riding to see spectacular views of Himalayas, monasteries, deserts, sky caves, high cliff etc.
  • Explore restricted area one of the world’s greatest archaeological mysteries in Himalayas.
  • Discover hidden treasure of the Lost Kingdom Upper Mustang looks like Tibet.
  • Ride in spectacular terrain along gushing rivers, countryside, alpine meadows, valleys & sky caves.

Upper Mustang pony trek itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, one of our officials will greet you and transfer to hotel by private vehicle. At the hotel, representative will brief you about program and plan. You can spend rest of the time at your leisure or explore the bustling city of Kathmandu.
Elevation: 1,400 meters / 4593 feet.

After breakfast, full day sightseeing journey in Kathmandu valley start with private vehicle and professional guide. There are many sights to see in Kathmandu Nepal. Among of them guide takes you to the selected destination like Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu and Patan Durbar Square etc. Kathmandu sightseeing trip covers major historical, and cultural monuments that beautifully crafted with various wood, metal, and stonework. The city is full of history and culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy. After city tours, we will drive back to hotel and conduct Pre-trip meeting. You spent rest of the time for gear shopping, packaging, exploring streets of Thamel and sample local food.

The main ways to travel from Katmandu to Pokhara are by bus, private car and plane as per the budget, interest and booking deal. It takes 6 to 7 hours to cross 200 kilometers distance of Prithivi Highway in between Kathmandu and Pokhara. If you prefer flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara then only takes about 25 minutes.
Journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara is incredibly scenic, with breathtaking views of Himalayan mountains, waterfalls, picturesque scenery, Trishuli & Marshyangdi River. Along the way, you will pass through small towns and villages that give you a glimpse into the rural life of Nepal.
Once you reach Pokhara, you’ll be greeted with stunning views of Annapurna range, serene Phewa Lake and beautiful Pokhara city. After checking into hotel you can take a rest or go to explore lakeside area, boating and walk around watching the reflection of mountain and sky in beautiful Phewa Lake. Journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara end but memories last forever.

The fastest way to reach Jomsom from Pokhara is to take a flight. Pokhara to Jomsom flight is known for its scenic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range of Himalayas. It takes 25 minutes to reach by flight and total weight allowed for baggage is 15 kg per person.
Due to frequently changing weather of Jomsom, flights can be delayed or cancelled at short notice. In this way, it is highly recommended to use road transportation instead of flight to make safe and sure journey.
Safe, sure and easiest way to reach Kagbeni from Pokhara is by road via Jomsom. It is 182 km / 113 miles and takes about 6/7 hours to reach. Road pass along Kali Gandaki river valley observing beautiful mountain scenery and countryside, deepest gorge in the world etc. We arrange flight or jeep as per weather condition, needs and agreement.
From jomsom we can take a jeep or walk to reach Kagbeni village. The road is rugged and bumpy, but the views are breathtaking. If you choose to walk, the trail is mostly flat and easy to follow along Kali Gandaki River. It takes around 3-4 hours, depend on your pace.
Kagbeni is a small village situated at the edge of lower and Upper Mustang Nepal. It is famous for its religious point of view (pilgrimage), traditional houses, narrow alleys, and ancient monasteries. Pokhara to Jomsom to Kagbeni journey is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Horse riding journey from Kagbeni to Chele begins after breakfast at hotel and enter the special permit zone of upper mustang.  The trail winds its way northwards along the Kali Gandaki River. It offers stunning views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Dhampus and Tukuche peak of Himalayas and unique landscapes of Mustang. Chele itself is a fascinating destination, with a rich history, ancient monasteries, chortens, culture, traditional architecture influences by Tibetan Buddhism.
We traverse several ridges, farm land, apple orchard, picturesque mountain scenery and Tangbe villages and take a break at Chhusang village for lunch. Then after horse riding along the river observing unique rock formation, high cliff and sky caves of Nepal. Finally cross the Kaligandaki River to reach Chele village of Mustang. Kagbeni to Chele is a beautiful journey to experience the unique culture and beauty of the Mustang region in Nepal.

Horse riding form Chele to Ghiling pass hrough beautiful villages, rocky trails, narrow canyons and crossing two passes, Taklam La 3,624m and Dajori La 3,660m. You will get to witness the unique culture and lifestyle of the people living in Mustang. Riding trail passes through several small villages like Ghyakar, Samar to reach Syangboche.

Samar is a beautiful village with traditional houses and ancient monasteries, well known common lunch stop of travelers. Along the way you will pass ups and down in barren hills, rocky terrain via Ranchung Chungsi cave of Mustang. Chele to Ghiling pony trek is a wonderful experience for those who want to explore the unique culture and landscape of Upper Mustang Nepal.

Horse riding journey from Ghiling to Dhakmar is incredibly scenic route where traveler spellbound with scenic mountain views, unique landscape, ancient chortens, beautiful terrains and hamlet of Ghiling area.
Ghiling to Dhakmar route follow the Tamagaon, Chhunggar, Zaite and Ghami villages and ascent towards Nyi la 4010 m then descend to Ghami la 7365 to reach beautiful Ghami village. After lunch at Ghami horse riding continue towards Dhakmar village famous for its unique red cliff and sky caves. Pony trek from Ghiling to Dhakmar is an amazing and rewarding experience for those looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Mustang.

Trek start early in the morning from Dhakmar towards Lo Gekar monastery and Marang village of mustang. During this journey visitor passes through several high passes, small villages and Ghar Gumba before reaching Charang. Tsarang village, known for its ancient architecture and panoramic views of the valley.
Along the way, one can enjoy breathtaking views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, as well as explore the rich cultural heritage of mustang Nepal. Ancient monastery Mani stone, prayer flags, Chortens around Ghar Gumba and white-washed houses in Tsarang area attract the attention.
Ghar Gumba, Buddhist monuments of Charang village, alpine meadows and impressive mountain views are highlights of the day. Trail ascend up to high valley and descends towards wide farm land of Charang.
We walk around the village, old palace, red monastery, surrounding natural beauty and interact with friendly locals, who are mostly farmers and herders. The Dhakmar to Tsarang trek is a fantastic hiking experience that takes you through red cliffs, deep canyons, beautiful landscapes and traditional hamlet of mustang Nepal.

Today is the final day to reach the highlights of upper mustang trip the wall city “Lo Manthang “. Tsarang to Lo Manthnang distance offers stunning views of mountains, an opportunity to explore the culture, history and natural beauty of Mustang. Most of the walking trail to Lo Manthang is flat; wide and gradually up crossing Sungda Chorten.
Lo La pass 3960 meters is the highest point of the day to reach the wall capital of former kingdom of Lo. From the pass we descend to Lo Manthang which is a beautiful walled village.
Trail to go to Lo Manthang from Tsarang is easier than other part. It offers eye catching views of Himalayan range including two above 8000 meters’ peaks Mount Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massif.
From the Lo La pass explorer gets the first glimpse of Lo Manthang city, wide barren land in mustang valley. Famous wall city known for their traditional mud-brick houses, narrow alleys, and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
Finally, we reached ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang. At the Lo Manthang city we feel pure Tibetan culture, rich history, interact with Lowa people and know about their way of life. There are many things to see around Lo like historic royal palace, ancient monasteries, local markets, mani, chortens and prayer wheels that provides lifetime experiences.

Today is the day to discover the secret of Lo Manthang Nepal that you’ve been waiting for. After breakfast trip starts with either horse riding, walking or jeep safari towards chhoser, garphu & kora la border. Chhosar village offers a unique glimpse into the traditional way of life, daily activities that the practice in upper mustang.
Ancient monasteries like Garphu and Niphu monastery, surrounding colorful rock formations and centuries old caves in rock cliff are really impressive to see in Chhoser area. Niphu monastery is an ancient cave monastery carved into the cliffs. Travelers impressed to visiting Jhong cave, Konchok ling cave & Ritseling cave in Chhoser valley Nepal.
After of before Chhoser we heading to kora la, a high mountain pass located in mustang district of Nepal. It is a part of ancient salt trading route between Nepal and Tibet autonomous region of china. Kora la is known for its stunning mountain views and rugged terrain.
Afternoon we will be back to Lo Manthang and spent rest of the day visiting the city’s ancient monasteries, palace, narrow alleys, stupas and the architecture of earthen wall city. The long walls of the prayer wheels and flags provide a colorful appearance of the place. Royal palace, three ancient monasteries, Amchi school and the local way of life are the highlights of Lo Manthang exploration.
Lo Manthang is a small town surrounded by towering mountains and arid landscapes. It is a fascinating place to explore, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty which make an epic journey into the Himalayas.

Today, we embarked on a journey to Yara, a village located to the south east of Lo Manthang. It was quite long journey then previous days. Walking trail was mostly flat, ups and down including vast grasslands and rocky terrain. You passed through beautiful landscapes on the way from Lo Manthang to Yara via lo la 3950 meters and Dhi la 3950 m, Dhi and Surkhang village.
From the Dhi pass trail descends into the Kali Gandaki river and Dhi Khola valley. Dhi is a picturesque settlement with traditional houses and winding streets located at the confluence of these 2 rivers.
After this village, we eventually reached peaceful Yara village, a remote settlement surrounded by barren hills, rugged landscape and ancient ruins. One of the most interesting features of Yara is the ancient caves that dot the hillsides around the village.
Yara village, located at an altitude of 3,650 meters above sea level. This village famous for its traditional mud-brick houses, unique architecture and cultural heritage. It is one of the most well-preserved village in mustang region & worth to see.
Lo Manthang to Yara was a truly unforgettable experience because you were immersed with stunning landscape, rich culture and traditions of mustang in the Himalayas. Upon reaching Yara, we checked into our hotel and spent the rest of the day exploring the village and interacting with the locals.

Today we are hiking to explore the Luri Gompa a cave monastery of upper mustang built into a towering cliff face. Luri Gompa is a sacred Buddhist site located near Ghara village. Famous for its unique cave paintings, sculptures, culture and history. You feel deep sense of spiritual connection while visiting Luri cave monastery, stupa and surrounding nature.
Luri monastery is perched on a cliff face, and we had to climb up a steep staircase to reach it. The climb was worth it, though, as the views from the top were simply stunning. We spent some time exploring the monastery and chatting with the monks, who were incredibly welcoming and friendly.
There are 2 chambers inside cave monastery. Wall and ceiling of monastery decorated with many paintings in the 14th century or even earlier. Mysterious Luri monastery is one of the best place to achieved siddhi by meditation.
Chorten inside Luri cave monastery decorated with eight auspicious symbols and four guardian deities. The Dom contains paintings of Namgyal, Khadcheri, Vajrasattva and Lokesvara in 4 directions east, west, north and south respectively. There are many paintings of lama, eight siddhas and mandala also inside the monastery.
700-year-old “Luri Gumba” is one of the most stunning attractions, rich cultural and spiritual heritage of upper mustang a remote and rugged terrain in Nepal. Visit once in a life time to collect the lifetime memory.

Wonderful journey of the day begins after breakfast at Dhe for Syangboche. The trail from Dhi to Syangboche via Tsarang and Ghami quite challenging with ascents and descents. Along the way, we pass through beautiful landscapes, including arid desert-like terrain, deep canyons and impressive rock formations.
We visit ancient Red Gumba, old palace in Charang, ancient monasteries and Chortens at Ghami and Ghiling villages. We cross Tsarang la 3870m, Ghami la 3765m and alternative Nyi la 4025 m, following new walking path to avoid the road. The trail between Dhi to Syangboche is rocky and dusty, but the views of the surrounding mountains were simply breathtaking.

It was time to say goodbye to upper mustang and head back to Jomsom. Walking trail is easy with several flat stretches and gentle descents. After a few hours of walk you cross Tangbe village and reach Kagbeni. It is a small but charming village, famous as the gateway to upper mustang with traditional mud-brick houses, narrow alleyways and adorned with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.
From Kagbeni, the trail gradually ascended towards Jomsom, and the landscape or topography also began to change. The barren terrain give way to lush green vegetation and the mountains became even more majestic. You pass through several small villages like Tangbe, Kagbeni, Ekle Bhatti along Kali Gandaki river and eventually reached Jomsom. At the Jomsom you can roam around city, visit eco museum, apple orchards or take a rest at lodge to make good time.
Chhusang to Jomsom part of the trip provide an opportunity to see awe-inspiring view of mountains, desert-like landscape, cultivated fields, traditional village, people, culture and way of life. The journey from Chhusang to Jomsom is an incredible experience in Kali Gandaki valley where you witness the beauty of mustang closely.

Today is the day to say goodbye to Mustang, early in the morning, we will take a flight to Pokhara. Jomsom to Pokhara flight is a popular domestic route of Nepal. Plane passes through a gorge between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, offers stunning view of snow-capped mountains and valleys below. Once you arrive in Pokhara, there are plenty of places to see and things to do. You can spend rest of the day in leisure or walk around the streets of lake city, souvenir shopping, boating in Phewa lake and experience nightlife in Pokhara etc.
The weather of Jomsom change in no time that affect Pokhara flight frequently. If the weather is not fine, we’ll arrange jeep to drive back to Pokhara. We request you to plan some buffer time for this possibility and be flexible to use alternative ways of transportation like jeep or helicopter.
Jomsom Pokhara travel by jeep is a great way to explore the beautiful scenery, countryside, waterfalls, people and culture of Nepal, the memories will remain forever.

After having breakfast at the hotel, we will set off for Pokhara to Kathmandu journey by car, jeep, tourist bus or flight as per travel agreement. It is 25 minutes’ flight by plane. Pokhara Kathmandu road distance is 200 km / 124 miles; it takes 6-7 hours to reach. Road follow Marshyangdi river and Trishuli river exploring countryside and beautiful scenery of the foothills of Himalayas.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu city you will check into hotel, rest, relax and explore the street of Thamel for souvenir shopping. Enjoy typical Nepali dinner party with culture show to celebrate successful journey.

Today is the final day of Nepal trip! Our representative will drop you to airport 3hrs before schedule flight. “Wishing you a safe journey! We look forward to our paths crossing again someday.”

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What are included in this package?

  • Airports pick up on your arrival day by private vehicle
  • All transportation Jomsom to Jomsom by luxurious jeep
  • Horse during trek from Jomsom to Syangboche in Mustang
  • Support vehicle to Transfer luggage and people as per need
  • Round trip Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Jomsom flight
  • 2 nights’ best hotel accommodation in Pokhara BB basic
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & dinner) 3 cups of hot drink each day on choice
  • Best accommodation at tea houses during Mustang trekking period
  • Professional English speaking guide trained by government of Nepal
  • All necessary paperwork, special permits (ACAP) and local taxes
  • Airport transfer by private vehicle on departure date

Excludes

  • Visa fees / international airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses phone calls, mineral water, bar bills, hot shower, battery recharge, extra porters & gears etc
  • Tips for guides, drivers (Tipping are expected but not mandatory)
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Upper Mustang pony trek cost & dates

Upper Mustang trek & tours organize verity of trip in Himalayas. Departure dates are 100% guaranteed until and unless there is no political unrest, natural disasters or epidemics in the destination.
Start dates are your arrival date in Kathmandu and end dates are the returning date from Nepal. Listed departure dates & price quoted on group joining basic. if given dates are not suits you, or travelling with friend let us to know to book private trip as per your requirements.

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Pony trekking in Upper Mustang
Horse Riding area of Upper Mustang
Horse riding trek to Mustang

Upper Mustang pony trek map

FAQs

What is a pony trek?

Pony trek is a horse riding trip on selected trail / route. Pony trekking an outdoor recreational activity takes to explore cultural heritage, wildlife, natural landscapes like mountains, forests, or countryside, in an easy and comfortable style. Pony trek can vary in duration and difficulty level. It last for a few hours, a full day, or even multiple days, depend on location and the preferences of riders.

How challenging is upper mustang pony trek?

Upper mustang pony trek considered as a moderate trek. It still requires a good level of fitness and stamina to ride in dry land of Himalayas. Pony trek involves slow but long riding hours, steep ascents and descents to explore the upper mustang Nepal.

How to get to mustang valley?

There are few ways to reach upper mustang valley Nepal by air, by road, and on foot. Pokhara to Jomsom flight is the fastest and easy way to reach mustang within 30 minute. One can get to upper mustang by road and walking as well. It takes 6-7 hours’ y drive and 5-6 days by walking to reach mustang valley.

What is the price of upper mustang horse riding trip?

The cost of travel to upper mustang by horse riding varies depend on the group size, and the level of require services. However, general cost supposes to pay between us$2500 to us$3,500 per person for a 10 days’ trip. This is all inclusive price covers, pony, accommodation, food, transportation, permits, guides and porters etc.

What is the mustang horse riding price in Nepal?

Horse hiring cost per day depends of the purpose of ride like for race or pony trek. If you need pony for trek the it cost in between us$ 30 to 35 per day per horse. If you need horse for race / competition, then it cost in between us$ 50 to 120 per day. Pony hiring cost very according to the location as well.

When is the best time to go for horse riding in mustang Nepal?

In fact, spring, autumn and monsoon seasons are the best time to go for horse riding in mustang, Nepal. On the months of these seasons the weather is mild, clear skies and dramatic landscapes. It is particularly beautiful for horse riding and to enjoy the scenic beauty of mustang. Mustang lies in the rain shadow region of the Himalayas, so it receives significantly less rainfall compared to other parts of Nepal. This makes it suitable for horse riding even during the monsoon season.

What is the Jomsom to Korala distance?

Jomsom to korala distance is 110 kilometers / 68 miles. It takes 4 to 5 hours by drive to rich kora la border of Nepal and china via Lo Manthang.

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Upper Mustang pony trek reviews

Travel experience of our clients who recently returned from their trips

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Eva Petrov

August 22, 2023

A Mesmerizing horse riding Journey to Upper Mustang

We had a wonderful time horse riding to Upper mustang from Jomsom with guide Shankar and horseman. Main goal of our journey was Lo Manthang, the fabled walled city that seemed to emerge from the desert itself. Guide led us to discover ancient monasteries, royal palaces, alleys, stupas and architecture of wall city built by Ame pal former king of Mustang. The blends of natural beauty, rich tapestry of history and culture of mustang spellbound us during the trip. It’s really nice place to see once in a life time, highly recommended this agency and guide. Thank your team for making our Upper mustang pony trek so special and memorable forever.

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Starts From $ 2999 pp

US $ 2850

Save $ 149 per pax All Inclusive Price
No. of Persons Price Per Person
2 Pax US$ 2999
3 – 4 Pax US$ 2850
5 – 7 Pax US$ 2700
8 – 18 Pax US$ 2595
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