A 12‑day trek through Nepal’s Upper Mustang leads from Jomsom to the ancient walled city of Lo‑Manthang across a desert‑like Trans‑Himalayan plateau. Expect high, dry landscapes, Tibetan Buddhist culture, required permits, and 4–7 hour walking days at altitude.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the short mountain flight into Jomsom and the air is thin, dry and sharp—the Trans‑Himalaya daring you forward. The Kaligandaki River pushes on below, carving the world’s deepest gorge as you climb out of the valley toward the rain‑shadowed plateaus of Upper Mustang. Dusty tracks, red and ochre strata, and wind-shaped ridgelines frame a trek that reads like a geological map and a living museum.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
12 days
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness; able to hike 4–7 hours daily at altitude with a loaded daypack.
Wildlife
History
Upper Mustang was a semi‑independent, restricted region with strong Tibetan cultural ties and a medieval walled capital in Lo‑Manthang; formal access opened to outsiders in the 1990s.
Conservation
The area is a fragile cold‑desert ecosystem—visitors must follow permit rules, minimize waste, and support registered guides and local lodges to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the 12 days Upper Mustang Trek in Annapurna Region, Nepal today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Obtain permits in advance
Upper Mustang requires a special permit plus ACAP permit; start the process early to secure travel dates.
Prioritize acclimatization
Plan for slow ascents and a rest day in Lo‑Manthang or before big gains to reduce altitude sickness risk.
Flights are weather‑dependent
Pokhara–Jomsom flights are short but frequently delayed or canceled by wind—build buffer time into your itinerary.
Carry cash and small change
Guesthouses and local vendors accept only cash; ATMs are not available along the trek.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction for rocky, uneven trails and scree approaches.
Insulated down jacket
Cold nights and high‑altitude winds demand reliable insulation.
fall
Sun hat and high‑SPF sunscreen
Strong UV at altitude and reflective, dry landscapes increase sun exposure.
summer
Trekking poles
Assist balance on loose scree and reduce knee strain during long descents.