Upper Mustang Tours & Travels

Facts about horse riding trek to mustang

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

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. Discover the Mystical beauty of Upper Mustang on horseback, interact with local and familiar with their nomadic lifestyles.

Mustang is a semi-arid region, and the landscape is characterized by deep gorges, rocky cliffs, and barren hills. Horse riding is deeply rooted in the culture of Upper Mustang. The rugged terrain and high altitudes make horses an essential mode of transportation in this area. Upper Mustang horse riding trek is a safe and enjoyable adventure like no other, it is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

• 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.

• Day 1 : Arrival day in Kathmandu, Nepal

  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.

• Day 2 : Kathmandu sightseeing and permits preparation

  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.

• Day 3 : Flight or drive from KTM to Pokhara 822 meters / 2,697 feet

  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.

• Day 4 : Pokhara to Jomsom by flight then ride to Kagbeni 2800 meters / 9186 feet

  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.

• Day 5 : Horse ride to Chele 3100 meters / 10170 feet via Tangbe & Chhusang

  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.

• Day 6 : Riding horse to reach Ghiling 3570 meters / 11712 feet in Upper Mustang

  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.

• Day 7 : Pony trek to Dhakmaar 3820 meters / 12533 feet via Ghami village

  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.

• Day 8 : Horse ride to Tsarang 3560 meters / 11679 feet via Lo-Geker / Ghar gumba

  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.

• Day 9 : Horse riding to Lo Manthang 3840 meters / 12598 feet

  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.

• Day 10 : Explore Lo Manthang, and chhoser 3897 meters / 12785 feet by hourse

  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.

• Day 11 : Pony trek to Yara village 3607 meters / 11834 feet

  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.

• Day 12 : Pony trek to Luri Gumba 3950 meters / 12959 feet and back to Dhi gaon.

  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.

• Day 13 : Horse riding to Syangboche village 3800 meters / 12467 feet

  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.

• Day 14 : Drive back to Jomsom 2720 meters / 8923 feet via Muktinath

  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.

• Day 15 : Morning flight or drive back from Jomsom to Pokhara

  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.

• Day 16 : Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu

  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.

• Day 17 : Airport transfer to depart Nepal

  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.”

• 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

• 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)