Sweeping views across Tsarang Dzong in Mustang | Garry Weare

The small village of Tangge in Mustang | Garry Weare

Views of the Nilgiri range en-route to Upper Mustang | Garry Weare

Tibetan Buddhism is prominent in Mustang | Maria Visconti

Kagbeni on the banks of the Kali Gandaki river, gateway to Mustang | Garry Weare

Pass through the scenic Kagbeni Checkpoint on Upper Mustang | Jean-Marie Hullot

Boudhanath stupa in Kathmandu is one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal. | Peter Walton

The Kingdom of Mustang

Name: The Kingdom of Mustang
Brand: World Expeditions
SKU: KOM
Rating: 4.76 (29 reviews)

Experience the ancient Tibetan landscapes of Mustang

Nepal

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29 reviews

17 Days from

$5340 USD

Trip Code: KOM

View dates to Book

Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Single Supplement Hotel Only

$170 USD

Single Supplement Tent Only

$210 USD

Single Supplement

$380 USD

Duration

17 Days

Activities

7 day trek
3 days day walks

Style

Classic Adventures

Accommodation

4 nights hotel
10 nights camping
2 nights eco-lodges

Meals

Valued at USD$650

13 Dinners
13 Lunches
16 Breakfasts

Flights

Valued at USD$650

Difficulty Grading

5 / 10

Moderate

Carbon Footprint

27kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(425kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Kingdom of Mustang Trip highlights

Trek through Mustang’s striking high desert, with deep gorges, ochre cliffs and secluded villages
Discover the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, still rich with Tibetan culture
Watch sunrise and sunset light up the secluded Himalayan ranges of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri
Immerse yourself in Tibetan Buddhist traditions, from colourful prayer wheels to quiet hillside chortens

Overview

Situated on the border of Nepal and Tibet, Upper Mustang was once its own Himalayan kingdom, with a culture and landscape that feel very different from the rest of Nepal. This is a region where Tibetan Buddhist traditions remain deeply rooted, with ancient monasteries, whitewashed chortens and timeless villages set against a dramatic backdrop of red cliffs and snow-capped peaks.

Our specially designed itinerary combines time to explore Mustang’s rich cultural heritage with a moderate trek through the heart of this Trans Himalayan region. We drive from the old capital of Tsarang to the walled city of Lo Manthang, where the King still holds a ceremonial place in the life of this secluded kingdom.

This journey is ideal for those who have trekked Nepal’s better-known trails and are now looking to discover a more hidden side of the Himalaya. It’s a chance to walk among centuries-old Buddhist settlements and tiny monasteries, with views stretching north to Tibet and south to the mighty Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

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On arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met at the arrivals gate by a World Expeditions representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax after your journey or explore the surrounding area at your own pace. In the late afternoon, a pre trek briefing will be held where you will receive your kit bag, sleeping bag and down or fibre fill jacket, along with an overview of the journey ahead. In the evening, you will head out for a group dinner, providing an opportunity to meet your fellow travellers. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel

Meals: Nil

This morning you will transfer to the airport for your flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The flight time is approximately 25 to 30 minutes and offers views of the Himalayan range on clear days. On arrival in Pokhara, you will be transferred to your hotel, with the remainder of the day free to relax or explore this lakeside town at your own pace. Accommodation: Hotel

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you will transfer to the airport for your flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, a short but scenic journey of approximately 20 to 25 minutes. On arrival in Jomsom, you will meet your trekking crew and begin your walk towards Kagbeni. This half day trek follows the Kali Gandaki valley and provides a gentle introduction to the journey, allowing you to stretch your legs after recent travel. On arrival in Kagbeni, an impressive village marking the gateway to Upper Mustang, preparations will be made for the days ahead, including meeting your liaison officer and finalising permits for entry into the restricted region. Accommodation: Lodge

Meals: B,L,D

Today you travel by road from Kagbeni into the Kingdom of Upper Mustang, where the landscape changes dramatically beyond the Great Himalayan divide. The green valleys of lower Mustang give way to a stark, high altitude desert, with whitewashed villages set among cultivated fields of barley and wheat, and marked by chortens and mani walls reflecting a strong Tibetan Buddhist culture. After passing through Chhusang, the route crosses the Kali Gandaki River before ascending gradually to Tsarang, the former capital of Upper Mustang. On arrival, you settle into camp and take in the expansive views of this remote and culturally rich region. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you explore some of Upper Mustang’s most significant cultural sites before continuing to Lo Manthang. After visiting Tsarang’s historic fort and monastery, you travel to Ghar Gompa, the oldest monastery in Upper Mustang, where a short walk leads you to this ancient site set among open meadows with views towards the Damodar Range. The monastery dates back to the 8th century and houses important statues and thangkas reflecting early Buddhist history in the region. In the afternoon, you complete the drive to Lo Manthang, the walled capital of Upper Mustang. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you explore Lo Manthang, the historic and cultural centre of Upper Mustang. Within the walled city, you visit key monasteries including Thupchen Gompa, which has undergone extensive restoration, as well as the 13th century Chode Gompa and the 14th century Jampa Monastery, each reflecting a unique blend of Tibetan and Nepalese architecture. You will also have time to wander through local markets and experience daily life in this remote capital, where traditional culture remains strong and the King continues to be highly respected. The day provides a deeper insight into the history, religion and way of life of the Mustang region. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you drive approximately one hour to the village of Choser, located near the Tibetan border. Here you explore a remarkable landscape of cliffs honeycombed with ancient caves, some of which have been used by monks and hermits for over two millennia. A walk through the area provides insight into these historic dwellings and the unique environment in which they were established. You also follow trails beyond the village, offering a broader perspective on life in this remote border region before returning to Lo Manthang. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you leave Lo Manthang on foot, following a trail that gradually descends towards the headwaters of the Mustang Khola, also known as the Kali Gandaki. Along the way, you pass the impressive cave of Makchung, a significant site marking the upper reaches of the valley. The route then follows a tributary through this stark and remote landscape, offering a quieter and more isolated perspective of Upper Mustang. You arrive at a small, sheltered campsite set beside the river. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you continue trekking towards the high altitude grazing pastures of Amka. The trail follows the course of the Chaka Khola, gradually gaining elevation and opening up increasingly expansive views of the Damodar Range. Along the way, you pass through remote alpine terrain used by local shepherds during the summer months, where flocks of sheep and goats graze. You arrive at your campsite at Amka, set within this exposed and rugged high altitude landscape. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you ascend gradually from Amka towards the Amka La (4440m / 14567ft), where wide ranging views open across the surrounding mountain ranges. To the north, the rugged peaks of the Damodar Range dominate the skyline, while to the south, distant views extend towards the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs. After crossing the pass, you descend, at times steeply, to Luri Gompa, one of the most significant monasteries in Upper Mustang, set within a limestone cliff and known for its detailed wall paintings depicting Buddhist deities and protectors. Continuing on, you descend further through this remote landscape to reach the village of Yara. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you begin with a gradual ascent to a plateau, where expansive views open across the high peaks of the Annapurna Range and the Dhaulagiri massif. From this elevated vantage point, the scale and remoteness of the surrounding landscape become clear. You then descend through a deep gorge, following the terrain down to your campsite beside the Dyechang Khola. This quieter section of the journey offers a contrasting perspective as you move from open high country into a more enclosed valley setting. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today is a shorter stage, allowing time to explore the village of Tangge. From camp, you ascend to a ridgeline opposite Tsarang, where views open across the surrounding valleys and settlements. The trail then descends gradually towards Tangge, passing through a landscape shaped by traditional land use. On arrival, you enter the village marked by well established chortens, with time to observe local life where herders graze sheep and yaks in the high pastures during the summer months. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you ascend steadily towards your campsite at Paha, with sections of the trail becoming steeper as you gain altitude. As you climb, wide ranging views unfold in all directions, with peaks extending north towards Tibet, the Damodar Range to the east, and the Annapurna Range to the south, including the prominent peak of Nilgiri. This high and exposed landscape highlights the scale and remoteness of the region. On arrival at Paha, you settle into camp, where water sources are limited and the area may also be used by local herders during the summer months. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you complete your descent from the high country, following a trail that is gradual at first before becoming steeper as you approach Chhusang. As you descend, views open across the Kali Gandaki River and the villages you passed earlier in the journey, offering a different perspective on the landscape of Upper Mustang. From Chhusang, you travel by road via Kagbeni, where permits are checked, before continuing to Jomsom. On arrival, you farewell your trekking crew, marking the end of your journey through Upper Mustang. Accommodation: Lodge

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you transfer to the airport for your flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, a short journey of approximately 20 to 25 minutes through the Kali Gandaki valley, with views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. On arrival in Pokhara, you connect with your onward flight to Kathmandu, which takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes and follows the Himalayan range, passing peaks including Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh and Langtang. On arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel, where the remainder of the day is at leisure. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel

Meals: B

Today you have a full day to explore Kathmandu at your own pace. You may choose to visit some of the city’s most significant cultural and spiritual sites, including Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple and an important cremation site, and Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and a key centre of Tibetan Buddhism. Alternatively, you can wander through the markets and shops of the Thamel district or visit other notable landmarks such as Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, or the historic plazas of Patan, Bhaktapur or Durbar Square. This day offers the flexibility to explore the rich culture and heritage of the Kathmandu Valley. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel

Meals: B

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You will be met by a representative of World Expeditions and transferred to the Radisson hotel. Remainder of the afternoon at leisure. A pre-trek briefing will be given around 4.30-5pm where arrangements will be made for the distribution of your kit bag, sleeping bag and down/fibrefill jacket. This evening we will head out for dinner, this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow group members. Overnight: Radisson Hotel or similar

Meals: Nil

This morning we take a flight west to Pokhara, Nepal's second largest town. Overnight: hotel

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we board a scenic flight to Jomsom, the start of our trek and where we will meet our trekking crew. After a long journey from our respective homes we have a half day walk to stretch the legs that brings us to Kagbeni, an impressive village that is our gateway to Mustang. To pass beyond this point we will need a special Mustang permit. We will meet our liaison officer and the crew will prepare for tomorrow's crossing into Mustang. Overnight: Eco-Lodge

Meals: B,L,D

From Kagbeni we enter the kingdom of upper Mustang. We begin to appreciate the remarkable change of geography north of the Great Himalaya divide. The lush verdant landscape gives way to a stark almost desert like land interspersed with whitewashed settlements set in the midst of thriving barley and wheat fields defined by main walls and distinctive chortens reflecting the kingdoms rich and abiding Buddhist heritage. After reaching Chhusang the road crosses the Kali Gandaki river before it gradually ascends to Tsarang, the former capital of upper Mustang. Overnight: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

An exhilarating day. After visiting the ancient fort and nearby gompa we head off to visit Ghar gompa, the oldest monastery in upper Mustang. We drive and then walk to the ancient site set in verdant meadows and sweeping views across to the Damodar range. The exquisite gompa dates back to the 8th century before Buddhism had established its foothold in Tibet and houses many priceless statues and tangkas of Buddhist deities and protectors. In the afternoon we complete the short drive to Lo Manthang, the capital of upper Mustang. Overnight: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

The next 2 days you are free to explore the cultural centre of Lo Manthang and experience the Tiji Festival celebrations. Tiji festival is a historical Buddhist festival held over three days in the third Tibetan month to celebrate the triumph of good over evil. This festival is celebrated annually and is one of the most revered festivals that symbolises the hope and strength of the people in the Upper Mustang region. Each morning starts with monks assembling in the monastery offering prayers to the Vajrakilaya, the deity who embodies enlightenment. The festival continues in the afternoon with performances by vibrant masked dancers in the public square amidst prayers and chants. Each day depicts a major topic with each dance representing a deeper theme. The town is also home to 3 major Gompas and the Palace to Raja and his Rani (queen). Although the Raja’s function is now primarily ceremonial, he is seen as a person who can help people resolve local issues. The town itself is fascinating, and offers countless opportunities to observe the traditional Tibetan culture. An optional side trip is available either on horse or jeep to the nearby Chosar Village. Chosar is a remarkable location with towering red-cliffs with caves that were inhabited as far back as 2,500 years ago. If you would like to avail of this, let your leader know so it can be arranged for you, advance notice is required, provided there are at least 6 travellers the side trip is without additional cost. Overnight: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

From Lo Manthang the trial winds down to the impressive cave of Makchung that marks the upper headwaters of the Mustang Khola (Kali Gandaki) before following the tributary to a small sheltered campsite, Overnight: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

We trek towards to high altitude grazing pastures at Amka. We follow the course of the Chaka Khola gaining ever impressive views of the Damodar Range to our camp where shepherds from local villages graze their flocks of sheep and goats through the summer. Overnight: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

From Amka we gradually ascend to the Amka La (4440m). From the north we gain spectacular views of the wild and rugged Damodar Range while sweeping views to the south extend to the Annapurna ranges and the Dhaulagiri massif. We descend steeply in places to Luri gompa, one of the most celebrated gompas in upper Mustang. The main temple is carved out of a limestone cliff that houses intricate wall paintings depicting the Buddhist protectors and deities dating back to the 15th century. A repository of learning that has long attracted pilgrims and scholars to this isolated corner of the Himalaya. Note there is a need to preclude photography inside the cave. Luri gompa honours Padmasambhava, the Guru Ringpoche and is believed to one of the oldest cave temples in Mustang. We then descend gradually to the substantial Yara village. Overnight: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

We commence a gradual ascent to a plateau to gain further views of the views of the high peaks of the Annapurna Range as well as the 8000m Dhaulagiri massif. After taking in the vast landscape we descend a deep gorge to our campsite alongside the Dechyang Khola. Overnight: Camping.

Meals: B,L,D

A short stage to ensure we have time to explore this fascinating village. From camp we ascent to a ridge line directly opposite Tsarang before a long, gradual descent to Tangge. The village entrance is characterised by well-established chortens while the villagers graze their sheep and yaks in the high pasters throughout the long summer days. Overnight: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

Our trail ascends steeply in places to our campsite at Paha. As we ascend we take in a complete panorama of peaks that extend north towards Tibet while to the east are the impressive Damodar range with myriad of snow capped 6000m peaks. To the south we see the mighty Annapurna range including the distinctive peak of Nilgiri. Water is in short supply in the vicinity of the campsite that we may share with local herders, however our excellent Nepali team are on hand to ensure the needs of the group are met. Overnight: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we complete the descent to Chhusang, gradual at first before a steeper drop to the village of Chhusang. As we descend we gain ever more impressive views of the Kali Gandaki river and the villages and settlements that we passed on our initial days drive through upper Mustang. We then drive to Kagbeni where are permits are checked before continuing to Jomsom where we bid farewell to our crew. Overnight: Eco-lodge

Meals: B,L,D

This is a fantastic way to conclude our journey. The spectacular flight down the Kali Gandaki that defies description with the huge mountains of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges towering above us. At Pokhara we board another aircraft for yet another spectacular mountain flight, this time along the face of the Himalaya past the Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh and Langtang ranges. On arrival in Kathmandu we transfer to the hotel. Overnight: Radisson Hotel or similar

Meals: B

Today you have a full day to explore Kathmandu’s bustling streets and significant landmarks. You may wish to start by exploring the city’s two most important World Heritage Listed spiritual sites: Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple and an important cremation site; and Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and the most sacred Tibetan Buddhist shrine outside of Tibet. Alternatively you could wander through the markets and shops of the busy Thamel precinct or explore some more of the city’s significant sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) or the World Heritage Listed plazas of Patan, Bhaktapur or Durbar Square. Overnight: Radisson Hotel or similar

Meals: B

After breakfast trip concludes with a transfer to the airport.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

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What's included?

Included

16 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 13 dinners including all meals on trek
airport transfers on day 1 and departing on day 17 or if you booked pre/post tour accommodation at the Radisson through World Expeditions
expert bilingual guide
fight Kathmandu/Pokhara/Jomsom/Pokhara/Kathmandu
an extra 5kg luggage allowance on Jomsom to Pokhara flight, total 20kg
special permit US$550
group medical kit
good quality accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara
accommodation in our fully serviced wilderness campsites and eco-lodges
use of a World Expeditions trek pack which includes a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre fill jacket and insulated mat (valued at over US$500)
Souvenir World Expeditions kit bag
private transportation
all park entrance fees and trekking permits
porters to carry all personal and group equipment
insurance, protective clothing, food and shelter for porters

Not included

Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
Bottled water, aerated & alcoholic drinks
Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc.
Tips
International flights
Airport and departure taxes
Visa
Travel Insurance
Please allow US$50 for monastery visits and donations in upper Mustang

Reviews (29)

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Responsible Travel

Extra trip info

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This trek operates in spring (May) and autumn (October), the two best times to explore Mustang. These months offer clear skies, dry trails and stable weather, ideal for walking and photography. Unlike other parts of Nepal, Mustang lies in a rain shadow, making it one of the few regions suitable for trekking even during Nepal’s summer monsoon.

No – while previous multi-day walking experience is helpful, it’s not required. The itinerary is designed for fit, curious and active travellers, with achievable walking days and a strong cultural focus. You’ll travel at a steady pace with rest days built in, supported by a caring and experienced crew.

You’ll carry just your daypack (around 6–8kg / 13–18lb) with daily essentials like a water bottle, rain jacket, sunscreen and snacks. Your main gear is carried by porters, so you can walk in comfort.

Your duffel bag (provided) should not exceed 15kg (33lb). This will be carried by the porter team. You can also store excess luggage in Kathmandu or Pokhara before your trek.

Yes – any extra items not needed on trek can be safely stored at the group hotel in Kathmandu until your return.

Accommodation is on a twin-share basis. If you’d like your own space, a single supplement is available on request (subject to availability). If travelling solo and not requesting a single, you’ll be paired with another traveller of the same gender.

Mustang is generally dry and sunny, but nights can be cold, especially above 3,000m. Temperatures can fall below freezing. You’ll be provided with a warm sleeping bag and down/fibre jacket, and our team ensures camps or lodges are as comfortable as possible.

Yes – while trekking, you’ll use a mix of private tented toilets at our camps and basic facilities in local lodges. Facilities are kept clean and hygienic, but conditions can vary in remote areas.

Yes – you’ll enjoy striking views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, along with Mustang’s barren cliffs, red-walled monasteries and hidden cave dwellings. The landscapes are dramatic and unlike any other part of Nepal – more Tibetan plateau than Himalayan foothills.

In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you’ll stay in comfortable, centrally located hotels. On trek, you’ll stay in a combination of wilderness-style camps and basic but welcoming local lodges. Our team sets up the camps with quality gear and support so you can rest well each night.

Charging is available at some lodges for a small fee. In camping sections, power is limited. We recommend bringing a power bank or solar charger as backup.

Yes – all meals are included while on trek, prepared by our dedicated kitchen crew when camping, and supplemented by lodge meals where appropriate. Food is freshly prepared and designed to keep you well-fuelled. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, breakfast is included.

The trek is graded Moderate to Challenging (Grade 5). You’ll walk for 5–8 hours a day, with some longer days and high passes. A good level of walking fitness is essential, and regular training before departure is highly recommended. The pace is steady, with support from experienced guides and crew.

The highest point is 4,200m (13,780ft), reached during the crossing of the Lo La Pass. The itinerary is paced with altitude in mind, including gradual climbs and acclimatisation time.

No – we provide a high-quality sleeping bag, liner and down or fibre-fill jacket as part of your trek package. These are designed for Himalayan camping conditions.

You’ll receive a full packing list after booking. We provide the essentials, including a sleeping bag, jacket, liner and duffel bag. You only need to bring your personal clothing, trekking boots and other day-use items.

Mustang is unlike anywhere else in Nepal – a former Himalayan kingdom with deep Tibetan Buddhist culture, spectacular desert landscapes, and ancient trade routes. You’ll visit the walled city of Lo Manthang, explore remote villages and monasteries, and travel through a restricted area few people get to experience. This is one of Nepal’s most culturally rich and visually striking journeys.