Trek from Pokhara and fly into Jomsom to cross the Kali Gandaki and enter the ancient Kingdom of Lo. This 17-day Upper Mustang route combines high, arid landscapes, Tibetan-influenced villages, and walled Lo-Manthang exploration.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A thin highland wind pushes dust across a trail of ochre and grey; ahead, the clustered white walls of Lo-Manthang sit like a compact town of light against the Trans-Himalaya sky. This 17-day itinerary stages in Kathmandu and Pokhara, flies into Jomsom, then spends 11 days on trail through the Kali Gandaki valley up into Mustang’s stark, wind-carved plateaus.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
11–17 days
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness and experience with multi-day hikes at altitude; ability to walk 5–6 hours over uneven terrain for several consecutive days.
Wildlife
History
Mustang was an independent kingdom with strong Tibetan cultural ties until the 18th–20th centuries; Lo-Manthang was the royal seat and still preserves ancient palaces and monasteries.
Conservation
Upper Mustang sits inside a fragile trans-Himalayan ecosystem; visitors should stick to trails, avoid single-use plastics, and follow local guidelines to protect scarce water and grazing areas.
Reserve your spot on the Upper Mustang Trekking - 17 Days today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Permit and documentation
Upper Mustang requires a restricted-area permit (special permit and TIMS); carry passport copies and printed permits at all times.
Acclimatize deliberately
Build in easy days and hydrate—many days sit between 2,700–3,800 m and slow ascent reduces altitude illness risk.
Carry cash
Tea houses accept limited cards; bring Nepalese rupees for food, tips and remote purchases.
Footwear and traction
Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good grip handle mixed dirt, stone stairs and occasional scree.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction for rocky, dusty trails and stone steps.
Warm down jacket
Cold nights and wind at 3,500–3,800 m require insulated outer layers.
winter
Trekking poles
Reduce knee strain on descents and help with balance on loose sections.
Water purification (tablets or filter)
Tap and spring water in remote villages may need treatment—carry a reliable method.