Upper Mustang Trek (12–14 Days)

The Upper Mustang trek takes you into the ancient kingdom of Lo, often called the “Last Forbidden Kingdom.” Nestled beyond the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, this trek is renowned for its Tibetan culture, desert-like landscapes, and centuries-old monasteries. The terrain is unique—arid cliffs, caves, and hidden valleys—very different from the lush greenery of most treks in Nepal. Classified as moderate, the trek requires a special permit and offers a rare glimpse into a preserved Himalayan culture. The best trekking season is May–October, when the region stays dry (unlike most of Nepal which faces monsoon).

Sample Itinerary (12–14 Days)

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m), permits preparation, briefing.

Day 2: Drive or fly to Pokhara (820m).

Day 3: Fly to Jomsom (2,720m) → Trek to Kagbeni (2,810m) – entry point to Upper Mustang.

Day 4: Trek to Chele (3,050m).

Day 5: Trek to Syangboche (3,800m).

Day 6: Trek to Ghami (3,520m).

Day 7: Trek to Tsarang (3,560m).

Day 8: Trek to Lo-Manthang (3,840m) – the walled capital of Mustang.

Day 9: Exploration day in Lo-Manthang – visit monasteries, caves, Tibetan culture sites.

Day 10: Trek back to Ghami or Dhakmar.

Day 11: Trek to Syangboche.

Day 12: Trek to Chhusang.

Day 13: Trek to Jomsom.

Day 14: Fly back to Pokhara → Kathmandu.

Best Time to Go

• Spring (May): Flowers in bloom, pleasant weather.
• Autumn (Oct): Best visibility, crisp mountain air.

Trekking Cost Estimates (in NPR)

• Budget Trek (12–14 days): NPR 35,000–55,000 → Includes teahouse stay (basic), 3 meals/day, permits, guide (shared).
• Mid-Range Trek (12–14 days): NPR 60,000–120,000 → Includes better lodges, full meals, guide + porter, Lukla flights.
• Luxury Trek (12–14 days): NPR 150,000–500,000+ → Includes luxury lodges, gourmet meals, private guide, porter, domestic flights, premium services.

Key Cost Components

• Permits: TIMS (NPR 2,000–2,500), Sagarmatha National Park (NPR 3,000), Khumbu Rural Municipality (NPR 2,000).
• Guide & Porter: Guide (NPR 3,000–4,500/day), Porter (NPR 2,500–3,500/day).
• Accommodation & Meals: NPR 500–4,000/night; meals NPR 300–1,500 depending on altitude.
• Transport: Kathmandu–Lukla flight (NPR 20,000–25,000 one-way); helicopter option available (NPR 150,000+).