About Upper Mustang Sky Caves Trek
Sky caves discovery trek provides significant understanding about history and culture of Mustang. The caves are believed to have been built between the 6th and 12th centuries by the Loba people who were part of ancient Tibetan empire. They built these caves as a means of protection and practice their religion. Since then the caves have been used by various groups of people, including monks and pilgrims, as a place of worship, retreat and sky burials.
Upper mustang sky cave discovery trek provides a glimpse into the history and culture of those people who lived in sky caves. They are a testament to human spirit of survival and perseverance in isolated region of Nepal. It is a unique trip for adventurer or history enthusiast. During the journey you can get an opportunity to spend a night at the complex of sky cave.
Mustang, Nepal
20 Days
Moderate to fairly challenging
Min 2 Persons
Chhoser 3897 meters / 12785 feet
March to November
Trekking & Sightseeing
3 Meals a day (BLD)
Flight, Drive & Hiking
Kathmandu - Pokhara - Jomsom
Jomsom - Pokhara - Kathmandu
Mustang Sky Caves discovery trek is for study & research about cave civilization in Himalayas. Sky caves are unique and exciting as they are located at high altitudes, carved into the cliff walls, and hold a lot of cultural and historical significance. Mustang, most often celebrated as the Last Forbidden Kingdom, epitomizes the diverse topographical spread of Nepal. It host sandy lands, sky caves, vast expanse of rocks and rugged formations elevating above the series of small farming terraces with gigantic mountainous panorama in the backdrop.
Situated on the northern central part of Nepal lifted above the Kaligandaki River, Mustang is among the places which boast the natural and cultural elegance in most unmolested state. Huge portions of formation resembling to Tibet, Mustang encapsulates thousand years of monasteries. Isolated villages and hospitable people which you will find are essentially influenced by Tibetan culture. The cultural enthusiasts will be profoundly pleasured with the grand celebration of Tiji festival.
This Trans-Himalayan region was subject to restriction until the year of 1991 when the region was officially opened for visitors. The visitors are bestowed with pleasing ecological miscellany, striking mountain views, ancient fortress and palaces, Buddhist monasteries, and bizarre rock formations that will amazingly delight the endeavor to this region.
During the sky caves discovery trek travelers get an opportunity to visit many ancient man-made caves of mustang. Lo-Manthang, the walled town of Mustang, is an ultimate reserve of this trek. After exploring Lo Manthang, Chhoser you fell refreshed & get a chance to stay close to nature. Classic Upper mustang trek and sky caves discovery trek route is same.
We add extra days to explore the caves on the way to Lo Manthang Nepal. Nepal sky caves discovery upper mustang trek is suitable for research students, professors and archeologist. The trail being moderately strenuous will basically require you to be physically fit.
Sky Caves discovery Upper Mustang trek cost in US$:
We operate sky caves discovery Upper Mustang trek from March to December with our professional guides made available at your service. Put aside all the hesitation and feel free to make inquiry in case of any doubts on the matter. We are here, heartily open, to answer your queries.
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.
Today we enter the special permit zone of upper mustang Nepal. The journey from Kagbeni to Chele begins after breakfast at lodge. 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 to take a break at Chhusang village for lunch. Then after walk along the river observing unique rock formation, high cliff and sky caves of Nepal. Finally cross the Kaligandaki River and from the river bed short uphill climb to reach Chele village of Mustang. This area become very windy and dusty after noon try to cross earlier as much as possible and use sunglasses, mask and windproof clothes. Kagbeni to Chele is a beautiful journey to experience the unique culture and beauty of the Mustang region in Nepal.
Chele to Syangboche trek is a part of Upper Mustang journey starts from Chele and goes through beautiful villages, rocky trails, and narrow canyons. Hiking from Chele to Syangboche or Ghiling will be hard compared to other days to cross 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. The 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 off-road trail in barren hills, rocky terrain via Ranchung Chungsi cave of Mustang. Chele to Syangboche trek is a wonderful experience for those who want to explore the unique culture and landscape of Upper Mustang.
The journey from Syangboche to Dhakmar is a relatively short but incredibly scenic one. Along this route traveler spellbound with scenic mountain views, unique landscape, ancient chortens, beautiful terrains and hamlet of Ghiling area.
Syangboche 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 we continue towards Dhakmar village famous for its unique red cliff and sky caves. The trek from Ghiling to Dhakmar is a scenic and rewarding experience for those looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Mustang.
Today is the final day to reach the highlights of upper mustang trip the wall city “Lo Manthang “. Dhakmar to Lo Manthnang distance offers stunning views of mountains, an opportunity to explore the culture, history and natural beauty of Mustang. …………………. From the pass we descend to Lo Manthang which is a beautiful walled village.
Trail offers eye catching views of Himalayan range including two above 8000 meters’ peaks Mount Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massif.
From the 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.
The journey from Yara to Tangye began early in the morning. The trail relatively flat with some downhill sections towards the lower mustang Nepal. It passes through barren landscape of mustang, with its dramatic cliffs, deep canyons, Chortens, monastery and stunning rock formations. Finally, you reach Tangya village, a remote village with ancient ruins and a traditional way of life influences by Tibetan culture. Tangge village known for its unique architecture, with houses built out of stone and mud, and stunning surrounding scenery.
Local people of Tangge are largely subsistence farmers and rely on animal husbandry, traditional farming methods to grow crops such as barley, wheat, and buckwheat. They have a deep connection with their land, culture and great pride in preserving their traditions and way of life. Tangye village of mustang is a hidden gem that offers a rare opportunity to experience a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Unique architecture, breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Tangye make this area must visit destination to explore the remote corners of the world. Yara to Tangye trek is an unforgettable journey through the mystical mustang region of Nepal.
Tangye to Chhusang trek distance is the longest and tough journey then previous days but the stunning landscapes keep us motivated to reach destination. Walking trail ascend gradually till Pa Bhanjyang then after descent towards Chhusang following Syerkothang Danda. Then we reach Chhusang village located on the banks of the Kali Gandaki river and witness the daily life of local people who live in this remote part of the world.
Chhusang village is surrounded by towering red cliffs and eroded sandstone formations that have been shaped by centuries of wind and water erosion. The contrasting colors of the red cliffs and the greenery of the surrounding vegetation create a striking visual effect that is truly breathtaking.
You walk alongside the Kali Gandaki river, which is flowing gently and provides a serene atmosphere that helps to relax mind and soul. Tangye to Chhusang trek is an excellent choice for those who wants to experience the incredible scenery, fascinating history and unique culture of upper mustang. Stunning views of Himalayan range, natural beauty and spiritual heritage of this area, make it a memorable journey for forever.
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.”
Upper Mustang Tours and Travels 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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Fixed departure dates not available for this month, Please request for Private Trip |
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Fixed departure dates not available for this month, Please request for Private Trip |
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Fixed departure dates not available for this month, Please request for Private Trip |
Many archaeologists and historians made research to identify the secret of mysterious sky caves of Upper Mustang. Till to date no one knows who built these caves and why they were built.
Sky caves of Mustang likely built by nomadic Tibetans or ethnic people of mustang in ancient time, used as spiritual retreats, monasteries. shelters, hideouts and burial sites. Most of the caves located at strategic location, high cliff to protect cave dwellers from enemies. Whatever the reason for their construction, the sky caves carry great historical and cultural significance.
The age of mustang caves supposed to be at least 2,000 to 3,000 years old, based on the age of human remains and artifacts found in sky caves of Nepal.
There are more than 10,000 man-made caves dug into the sides of valleys in Mustang Nepal. As per research report the caves have been used for a variety of purposes over the centuries, still some local people using ancient caves to store things, as a house, shelter for animals and as a lodge too. An ancient cave of Chhoser run as a lodge by local family. if you interested to spend a night inside the cave write us, we arrange according to your desire.
Sky Caves of Mustang are not suitable for dark retreats because of accessibility, preservation, ventilation, hygiene and safety measures. We advise you to find specially designed room for dark retreat to enhance inner experiences and deep meditation practices.
The exact number of natural caves in Nepal is not well-documented. Famous historical and religious natural cave like Gupteshwor Cave, Maratika Cave, Chungsi Caves, Siddha Cave and Mahendra cave are quite popular between tourist and pilgrims in Nepal.
There are many mysterious caves in the Himalayas, but one of the most interesting is the group of caves known as the Sky Caves of Mustang in Nepal. Mustang Caves are a fascinating archaeological site that still holds many secrets.
Sky caves of mustang have a rich history and were used for various purposes in the earliest periods of their existence like a Habitat, places of worship, Storage, Defense etc. Today, the Sky Caves of Mustang are a popular tourist destination to visit and learn about its history and significance.
Yes, the cave civilization in Mustang is a fascinating and mysterious one. Researchers found various ancient artifacts, including murals, statues and manuscripts that provide insight into the life of the people who lived there. The cave civilization in Mustang is a reminder of the rich history, culture and glimpse into the lives of ancient people of Mustang.
Sky caves of Nepal were carved into a steep cliff face 155 feet above the valley basin. Some of Mustang Caves are simple and small size and others are huge complex with many floors and rooms inside. Most of the caves are not easily accessible, need to fix ladders or ropes to access.
Man-made cave structures carved into the cliffs and rock formations look like an unbelievable mystery. Upper Mustang cave complex is not only a historical and archaeological treasure but also a place of great cultural and spiritual significance. It provides a glimpse into the rich history and heritage of the people who inhabited in mustang region of Nepal.
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