The Last Sanctuary Upper Mustang Trek | Explore Nepal’s Last Forbidden Kingdom

One of our representatives will welcome you at the airport and accompany you to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, we will hold a detailed briefing at the hotel to go over the full Upper Mustang trek itinerary.

Enjoy a breathtaking 25-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most picturesque cities. On clear days, this flight over the Himalayas offers spectacular panoramic views of the entire mountain range—from Ganesh Himal to Dhaulagiri—making it a memorable start to your trekking journey.

After breakfast, we embark on an exciting 4×4 drive to Upper Mustang, passing through diverse and stunning landscapes. The journey takes you from lush green mountains, through the world’s deepest gorge—the Kali Gandaki Gorge (Dana)—to the unique semi-arid desert of Mustang.

Along the way, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan ranges, setting the perfect tone for your Upper Mustang trek.

Today marks the start of our exciting journey toward the ancient Kingdom of Lo in Upper Mustang. This day features an easy hike, mostly along motorable roads, making for a comfortable introduction to the region.

Along the way, the traditional villages of Tangbe and Chuksang will captivate you with their unique Tibetan-influenced culture, distinctive architecture, and vibrant landscapes. Don’t miss the fascinating sky caves carved into the cliffs—offering a glimpse into the history, lifestyle, and spiritual practices of the Mustang people.

The trek route passes through several picturesque villages, including Samar and Syangboche, each showcasing authentic Himalayan culture and hospitality. A highlight of the day is visiting the renowned Chungsi Cave (Rangchung), where Guru Padmasambhava is said to have meditated.

Throughout the journey, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Nilgiri and Annapurna mountain ranges, visible right from the trekking path.

Today’s trail takes you through charming villages like Tamagaun and Zaite as you cross the Ni La Pass at 4,200 meters. The landscape becomes increasingly arid and colorful, with breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Nilgiri ranges to the south. The dramatic contrast and unique rock formations make this section truly spectacular.

On the way to Dhakmar (Red Hill), we’ll stop in the traditional village of Ghami (Ghemi) for lunch. Dhakmar itself captivates trekkers with its majestic hills and stunning mountain formations, offering a serene and picturesque setting to rest and explore.

Today’s route takes a unique path, bypassing local towns to reach one of the most sacred sites in Tibetan Buddhism—the Lo-Ghyekar Monastery. Nestled in the heart of the arid Mustang desert, this monastery stands like an oasis, offering a serene spiritual experience amid the stark, beautiful landscape.

Visiting Lo-Ghyekar provides a rare glimpse into the rich religious heritage and deep-rooted traditions of Upper Mustang.

Lo Manthang, the medieval walled city and capital of the Kingdom of Lo, is a living museum where the rich history, culture, and traditions of the Lowa people are etched into every narrow, maze-like alley.

Located along the ancient trade route that once connected Tibet to the southern plains of the Himalayas, Lo Manthang remains a vital cultural and spiritual hub.

The sacred Sakyapa monasteries in Lo Manthang hold deep religious significance for locals and visitors alike, offering insight into the Tibetan Buddhist heritage that shapes this unique Himalayan kingdom.

Leaving behind the historic capital of Lo Manthang, we trek towards the charming village of Yara. Along the way, the trail rewards us with spectacular panoramic views of the Annapurna and Nilgiri Himalayan ranges, making for an unforgettable trekking experience in the heart of Upper Mustang.

Today, we visit two remarkable sky caves: Tashi Kang and Luri Gompa, both offering a fascinating glimpse into Upper Mustang’s spiritual history.

Tashi Kang, located in the riverbed of Puyung Khola, features several accessible chambers. One chamber houses a beautifully preserved stupa adorned with paintings dating back to the 14th century or earlier.

Luri Gompa is another hidden treasure, with caves pitted into the colorful mountain walls displaying unusual formations. The main sanctum is a rounded, smoothed space within the cave, centered around a six-meter-high Chorten. This sacred structure is decorated with intricate painted figures on its base and dome, including eight images of Mahasiddhis on the ceiling.

After lunch in the village of Yara, we continue our trek towards Dhye.

Today’s hike takes us to the charming hamlet of Tange, offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and striking landscapes. The unusual shapes and vibrant colors of the terrain make this trek visually unforgettable.

Tange itself is a beautiful oasis nestled within the arid region—an enchanting contrast to the rugged surroundings that highlights the diverse natural beauty of Upper Mustang.

Today’s route is a long stretch through an uninhabited, village-free area, offering some of the most striking and untouched landscapes you’ll encounter on any trek. Prepare to be amazed by the raw, dramatic beauty of this remote part of Upper Mustang.

Today we return to modern civilization as we reach Muktinath, a vibrant small city that has grown around its significance as a major pilgrimage site. Known for its spiritual importance to both Hindus and Buddhists, Muktinath offers a unique blend of culture, history, and modern amenities after days in the remote Mustang region.

After breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive to Pokhara, which takes approximately 8 to 9 hours. Enjoy diverse landscapes along the way as you travel from the Mustang region to one of Nepal’s most popular tourist destinations.

Today, we explore the beautiful city of Pokhara, known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the serene Fewa Lake, taking in the reflections of the Himalayan peaks and the charming lakeside scenery.

Today, we take a quick and scenic 25-minute flight from Pokhara back to Kathmandu, enjoying aerial views of Nepal’s stunning landscapes as we return to the capital city.

You will be comfortably transferred by car or jeep to the airport well ahead of your flight departure time, ensuring a smooth and stress-free end to your journey.