A 17-day guided trek into Upper Mustang takes you into Nepal’s former ‘Forbidden Kingdom’—Lo Manthang—across arid plateaus, gompas, and cliff caves. Expect dry trails, high-altitude days, and deep cultural immersion with required permits and guided logistics.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dust rises like a memory as the trail leaves the river valleys and climbs into a landscape that almost refuses to green—wind-polished cliffs, flat high plateaus, and mani walls blinking with prayer flags. On the approach from Jomsom, the air thins and the world converts into light and stone; rivers dare you to cross on spindly bridges, and the wind pushes a steady, dry insistence across the plateau.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
16–17 days
Fitness Level
Should be in good cardiovascular shape with experience hiking 4–7 hours per day and carrying a daypack; prior high-altitude experience recommended.
Wildlife
History
Lo Manthang was founded by King Ame Pal in the 14th century and remained culturally distinct and closed to outsiders until the early 1990s, preserving Tibetan-Buddhist traditions.
Conservation
Upper Mustang’s thin-soil, rain-shadow landscape is fragile—stick to established trails, minimize campfires, and pack out waste; support local guides to ensure tourism benefits villages.
Reserve your spot on the Upper Mustang Trekking today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Permit paperwork ahead of time
Upper Mustang is a restricted area—obtain Restricted Area Permit and TIMS through your operator before arrival.
Acclimatize on schedule
Include rest days (Lo Manthang is commonly used for acclimatization) to reduce altitude risk during 3,000–3,800 m travel.
Hydrate and protect from sun
The rain-shadow climate is dry and UV is strong—carry at least 3–4 liters per day and broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Choose stable footwear
Trails alternate between loose scree and rocky singletrack—sturdy, broken-in boots reduce ankle injury risk.
Insulated down jacket
Warmth for cold nights at 3,000–3,800 m when temperatures drop sharply.
winter
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
Support and protection across rocky, dusty trails and occasional stream crossings.
Sun hat and high-SPF sunscreen
Protects against intense midday UV in the high plateau’s thin air.
summer
Lightweight trekking poles
Reduce knee strain on long descents and provide balance on scree sections.