Upper Mustang & Lo Manthang Overland/Trek
An iconic trans-Himalayan journey into the restricted kingdom of Lo Manthang in Upper Mustang. The route combines high desert landscapes, ancient Tibetan-influenced culture, fortified walled towns, red cliffs, caves, and remote gompas. The area is a restricted zone requiring special permits and guided travel; itineraries can be done as a multi-day trek or by combining jeep/overland segments for a gentler option.
Location
Upper Mustang (Lo Manthang), Mustang District (Kagbeni — Lo Manthang), Nepal
Duration
Typically 10–15 days (common options: 11 days trekking with flights or 13–15 days including acclimatization and overland/jeep transfers)
Best Time to Visit
Best months: March–May (spring), September–November (autumn). Shoulder: Late February and early December (cold). Avoid monsoon (June–August) — the region is rain-shadowed but access and flights are disrupted.
Pricing
Approximate costs (per person):
- Restricted-area permit: ~USD 500–700 (10–14 days; government fees vary and are subject to change)
- Typical guided trek package: USD 1,200–2,500 (depends on group size, level of service, inclusions)
- Domestic flights (Kathmandu–Pokhara–Jomsom round trip): USD 150–300
Note: Prices fluctuate with season, exchange rates, and official permit updates. Always confirm current permit fees and tour inclusions with your operator before booking.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Lo Manthang walled city and the royal palace (medieval Tibetan architecture)
Distinctive arid, red-cliff landscapes and ancient cave dwellings
Rich Tibetan-Buddhist culture, monasteries (e.g., Thubchen, Chhoser), and chortens
Spectacular views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges from the trans-Himalayan plateau
Restricted-area experience — remote, less-trekked than classic Annapurna/Gandaki routes
Itinerary
Kathmandu to Pokhara (flight) — transfer and overnight; prepare permits and gear.
Allow time to collect permits and meet guide/crew. Final weight/packing and acclimatization briefing.
Pokhara to Jomsom (flight) — drive to Kagbeni (2,800 m), final checks.
Short drive/transfer from Jomsom airport to Kagbeni; ensure paperwork for restricted area is in order.
Kagbeni to Chele (3,050 m) – short trek along the Kali Gandaki gorge into Mustang.
Easy first day, good for acclimatization; dry, windy terrain.
Chele to Samar (3,300 m) — continue into the Mustang rain shadow.
Landscape becomes more arid; keep sunscreen and sunglasses handy.
Samar to Geling/Ghiling (3,500 m) — pass red cliffs and cave complexes.
Visit cave dwellings carved into cliffs and small villages en route.
Geling to Charang (3,540 m) — explore local gompas and mani walls.
Option to visit nearby monasteries; cultural interactions with local residents.
Charang to Lo Manthang (3,840–3,880 m) — arrival at the walled capital.
Explore the palace, Thubchen and Jampa gompas, and stroll within the walled city.
Full day in Lo Manthang — sightseeing and village walks.
Optional visit to cave monasteries, local markets; rest and acclimatize further if needed.
Lo Manthang to Charang (or jeep/overland southbound option begins)
Return trek or combine with jeep transfer depending on itinerary choice.
Charang/Geling to Kagbeni by trek or jeep; transfer to Jomsom.
Rejoin transport for flight back; roads can be rough if taking a jeep.
Jomsom to Pokhara (flight), onward to Kathmandu (flight or drive) — trip conclusion.
Buffer day recommended for potential flight delays due to weather.
Safety Requirements
Restricted-area permit required; travel only with an authorized guide/operator
Altitude: Lo Manthang sits near 3,800–4,000 m — plan acclimatization days and monitor for AMS
Carry adequate travel/medical and emergency evacuation insurance covering high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation
Seasonal cold and strong sun — prepare for hypothermia risk at night and sunburn by day
Limited medical facilities — bring a personal first-aid kit and necessary medications (including Diamox if prescribed)
Roads and jeep tracks can be rough; seatbelts may not be available—choose reputable transport operators
Tips
Permits & paperwork: Book permits well in advance (especially high season). Operators usually arrange Restricted Area Permits (RAP).
Packing: Warm down jacket, layered clothing, sun protection (sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen), headlamp, water purification, sturdy boots.
Cash & supplies: Cash (Nepalese Rupees) is essential in remote villages; ATMs are not available — bring sufficient funds for tips, snacks, and extras.
Cultural respect: Dress modestly, ask before photographing people, and respect local monastery rules.
Altitude strategy: Ascend slowly, keep hydrated, eat well, and plan at least one acclimatization/rest day in the itinerary.
Connectivity: Mobile/data coverage is patchy; consider renting a satellite or local SIM where available for emergencies.
Weather & flexibility: Flights to/from Jomsom are weather-dependent. Allow buffer days in your schedule for delays.
Guide & porter: Use licensed guides and porters — they help with permits, logistics, and limit environmental impact by sticking to established camps/tea-houses.
