Upper Mustang Tours & Travels

About Annapurna circuit to upper mustang trek

Annapurna Circuit to Upper Mustang trek with a small group of family and friends will definitely provide lifetime memory. The journey begins with beautiful views of lush green farming fields, river flowing by it side, huge green mountains at the backdrop. Trip gradually hike towards the barren semi-arid desert, close to Himalayan peaks and all the way back exploring the deepest gorge of the world.

Annapurna circuit and upper mustang trek is a long vacation to discover many small pretty tribal villages, Snow covered peaks and Peaceful Places in Himalayas. This is a challenging trek, requires physical fitness, but the scenic beauty of the route is worth the effort. The trail passes through various terrains, from lush green forests to barren landscapes. The trek offers a unique opportunity to experience the diverse culture and lifestyle of the people living in Manang and Mustang regions of Nepal.

• Annapurna circuit to upper mustang trek connect the Manang and Mustang region crossing Thorong la pass.
• Amazing landscapes with ancient monastery, caves, archeological sites, art and history introduce the statues of magnificent Mustang.
• Lo-Manthang, the wall city and centuries old Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Kali Gandaki valley.
• Explore rain-shadow area in the mustang including people, culture, and tradition, lifestyle influence by Tibetan Buddhism.
• Upper mustang is the home land of Loba / mustang with unique culture and way of life that is distinct from the rest of Nepal.
• Discover the hidden kingdom of mustang, its unique and well-preserved Tibetan culture and traditions.
• Experience the tranquility and peacefulness of remote region of upper mustang Nepal.
• Know about early history of Lo Manthang, myths and legends by interact with local people.

• Day 1 : Arrival day in Kathmandu, Nepal

  After arrival in Kathmandu Airport (TIA) Nepal, our representative will welcome you and transfer to hotel by private vehicle. At hotel he/ she will give short briefing about program agreement and day to day plan. Check into hotel, use free time to take rest, relax and explore around Thamel.

  Elevation: 1,400 meters / 4593 feet.

• Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule 840 meters / 2756 feet
• Day 3 : Trek to Sirichaur 1160 meters / 3806 feet via Ngadi, Bahundanda, Ghermu
• Day 4 : Trek to Tal 1700 meters / 5577 feet through Syange, Jagat & Chamje
• Day 5 : Trek to Danakyu 2300 meters / 7546 feet via Karte, Dharapani & Bagarchhap
• Day 6 : Trek to Chame 2670 meters / 8760 feet via Timang, Thankchowk & Koto
• Day 7 : Trek to Pisang 3200 meters / 10499 feet via Talekhu, Bharatang & Dhikur Pokhari
• Day 8 : Trek to Manang 3540 meters / 11614 feet via Humde and Braka
• Day 9 : Rest days at Manang for acclimatization explore around
• Day 10 : Trek to Ledar 4200 meters / 13779 feet
• Day 11 : Trek to Throng high camp 4,880 meters / 16010 feet
• Day 12 : Trek to Muktinath crossing Thorong la pass 5416 meters / 17769 feet
• Day 13 : Trek to Chele 3100 meters / 10170 feet via Chhusang & Kagbeni

  …………….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.

• Day 14 : Trek to Syangboche 3850 meters / 12631 feet via Chungsi cave

  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 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 region.

• Day 15 : Trek to Dhakmaar 3820 meters / 12533 feet Nyi la and Ghami la

  The trek from Syangboche to Dhakmar via Ghami passes through beautiful landscapes, including arid desert-like terrain, deep canyons and impressive rock formations. There is a new walking path to connect four villages Syangboche, Ghiling Ghami and Dhakmaar. We follow new walking route to avoid the road.

  Along the way, we will visit ancient monastery of Ghami and ghiling, which are the oldest monasteries of Mustang. Ghami village surrounded by the farm land and desert types hills, Ghami river supply water for whole valley. After lunch at Ghami we continue towards Dhakmar village famous for its unique red cliff and sky caves.

  The trek from Syangboche to Dhakmar is a scenic and rewarding experience for those looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Mustang.

• Day 16 : Trek to Tsarang (Charang) 3560 meters / 11680 feet via 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 17 : Trek to Lo Manthang 3840 meters / 12598 feet via Sungda la and Lo la

  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 18 : Explore Lo Manthang & Chhoser by horse or walking

  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 19 : Trek to Yara village 3820 meters / feet via Dhigaun

  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 20 : Hike to Luri Cave Monastery, Tashi kabum and back to Tsarang

  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 21 : Trek to Ghiling 3570 meters / 11713 feet

  Today’s trek takes us to Tsarang from Ghiling village of upper mustang Nepal. The distance from Tsarang to Ghiling is around 23 kilometers and possible to cross by driving, horse riding or walking. The walking trail is rocky with several uphill climbs and downhill descents. There are many small villages, sky caves, ancient monastery, Mani wall, Chortens on the way and worth to see.
  Walking path go through high desert terrain of mustang & cross nyi la 4025 m, Ghami la 3765m and Tsarang la 3870m to reach Charang. The stunning views of mountains, rich culture, history and traditional way of life of upper mustang make this trip memorable forever.

• Day 22 : Trek to Chhusang 2980 meters / 9777 feet via Tsaile

  Ghiling to Chhusang journey start after breakfast at local tea house. Today’s trek is relatively easy, with a few uphill sections and some downhill stretches. Walking trail was dusty and windy, but the views were amazing. During the journey we cross narrow gorges, passes (Dajori la 3735 m, Bhena la 3860m, Yamdo la 3865m & Syangboche la 3850 m), several streams and Kali Gandaki river of mustang area. After pass the path continue descent and leads to small hamlet like Samar, Ghyakaar and Chele, amazing rock formations and beautiful waterfalls.

  There are 2 alternative routes in between Ghiling to Chusang. If you hike up via Chungsi cave, then back via bhena for better experience. Journey of the day ends at Chhusang village where one can discover ancient monasteries, Chortens, farm land and mesmerizing red cliffs. It is a wonderful ending of upper mustang trip that frequent in your mind forever.

• Day 23 : Trek to Jomsom 2743 meters / 8999 feet via Tangbe, Kagbeni and Ekle Bhatti

  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 24 : Trek to Kalopani 2530 meters / 8300 feet via Marpha, Tukuche & Larjung
• Day 25 : Trek to Tatopani 1190 meters / 3904 feet enjoy natural hot spring
• Day 26 : Trek to Shikha 1935 meters / 6348 feet via Gharkhola & Ghara
• Day 27 : Trek to Ghorepani 2850 meters / 9350 feet via Phalate & Chitre
• Day 28 : Hike to Poon Hill 3210m, back to Tikhedhunga 1480 meters / 4856 feet
• Day 29 : Trek to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara 820 meters / 2690 feet

  Today is the final day of the trek, trail descends quite considerably to Nayapal. Nayapul marks the end of an incredible adventure on the Annapurna Circuit trek. Take some time to savor the accomplishment, reminisce about the memories made, and immerse in the beauty of surrounding mountains before heading back to civilization. From the Nayapul group will drive to Pokhara by private vehicle. Nayapul to Pokhara distance is about 45 kilometers / 28 miles. It takes 1.5 to 2 hours to reach lake side Pokhara.

• Day 30 : Drive / flight back to Kathmandu

  The journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu is one of the most scenic and breathtaking routes in Nepal. The distance between the two cities is approximately 200 kilometers/ 124 miles, and the travel time is around 6-7 hours by road and 25 minute by plane. Keep in mind that the actual travel time may vary depending on the mode of transportation, traffic conditions, and your personal preferences. As soon as reach Kathmandu you will check into hotel, take a rest, spend evening time explore city for souvenirs shopping. Enjoy farewell dinner at evening to celebrate the successful excursion.

• Day 31 : Transfer to airport for departure

  Today we will transfer you to airport 3 hours before scheduled flight to depart from Kathmandu or back home after amazing trip to Himalayas. “Have a safe journey! hope to see you again in future”

• Airports pick up on your arrival day by private vehicle
• Transportation Kathmandu – Pokhara by private vehicle / flight
• Two nights hotel accommodation in Pokhara BB basic
• Round trip Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom to Pokhara
• All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & dinner) 4 cups of hot drink each day on choice
• Best accommodation at tea houses during trekking period
• Professional English speaking guide service trained by government of Nepal
• Experience trekking staffs (2 guest =1 porter basic) to carry your backpack
• All necessary mustang trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS) and local taxes
• Travel and rescue arrangements if require

• 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, porters (Tipping are expected but not mandatory)