Upper Mustang: Exploration trek at the gateway to Tibet

Altitude: 822 m

After breakfast, departure by comfortable bus towards Pokhara , located at the foot of the Annapurna massif. The road winds through the green hills of Nepal, offering beautiful panoramas of rivers, villages and terraced fields.

Throughout the journey, the landscape changes: deep valleys, sparkling streams, and scenes of local life punctuate this day of transition between the capital and the mountains. Breaks are planned to stretch your legs and enjoy the drive in comfort.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, transfer to your hotel located in the lively Lakeside district , on the shores of Phewa Lake . Check in and enjoy some free time to relax, stroll along the lake, or soak up the peaceful atmosphere of the city. It's the perfect place to unwind before the trek begins and prepare for the days of walking ahead.

Altitude: 2,804 m

We departed in the morning by jeep towards Kagbeni. The road gradually heads north, leaving the verdant landscapes behind and entering increasingly arid areas. The terrain opens up, the vegetation becomes sparser, and the atmosphere gradually changes.

Arriving in Kagbeni marks a clear entry into the world of Mustang , at the gateway to Upper Mustang. The village, located at the confluence of several valleys, possesses a unique atmosphere, blending Tibetan influences with local traditions.

At the end of the day, visit one of the oldest monasteries in the region, often guided by a young monk in training. Check into the lodge and enjoy free time to relax or explore the village. Overnight in Kagbeni.

Altitude: 3,050 m

The trek begins and we officially enter the restricted area of ​​Upper Mustang . After leaving Kagbeni, the trail follows the valley floor before gradually gaining altitude.

The change of scenery is immediate: more arid landscapes, red cliffs, spectacular rock formations and wide open spaces. The atmosphere becomes decidedly mineral, marking the entry into a unique territory.

The walk is steady, without technical difficulty, ideal for getting into the rhythm of the days ahead. Arrival at the village of Chele at the end of the day. Check-in at the lodge and time to rest. Overnight in Chele.

Altitude: 3,475 m

The day begins with a gradual climb towards Samar. The trail alternates between balcony sections and more open areas, offering wide views of the desert landscapes of Upper Mustang.

Along the way, an excursion to Chungshi Cave , an ancient meditation site nestled in the cliff, bears witness to the region's spiritual past. The path then continues towards Syanboche, in an increasingly rocky landscape.

Arrival at the end of the day in the village of Syanboche. Check-in at the lodge and free time to relax.

Night in Syanboche.

Altitude: 3,700 m

A long and beautiful day of walking through the villages of Ghiling and Ghami. The trail winds between arid plateaus, open valleys and spectacular rock formations, typical of Upper Mustang.

The walking is sometimes more strenuous, but always without technical difficulty. The altitude is gradually felt, and the pace remains intentionally relaxed to promote good acclimatization.

Arrival in Dhakmar at the end of the day, known for its impressive red cliffs. Check-in at the lodge and time to rest.

Night in Dhakmar.

Altitude: 3,840 m

The day begins with a gradual climb to a pass culminating at 4,290 m , the highest point of the trek. The effort is rewarded with sweeping panoramas of the desert landscapes of Upper Mustang and the surrounding mountain ranges.

After the pass, the trail descends gently towards Lo Manthang , the ancient fortified capital of the Kingdom of Lo. Arriving in this walled city marks a highlight of the journey, in the heart of a unique high-altitude desert.

Check-in at the lodge in Lo Manthang and free time to explore the surroundings or relax.

Night in Lo Manthang.

Altitude: 3,840 m

A day dedicated to discovering Lo Manthang and its surroundings. Visit to the royal palace and several monasteries, witnesses to the history and Tibetan culture of the Kingdom of Lo.

During the day, departure towards the Chhoser troglodyte caves . The path leads to this impressive collection of cavities carved into the cliff face, inhabited since 800 BC. Return to Lo Manthang at the end of the day.

Free time to enjoy the atmosphere of the fortified city.

Night in Lo Manthang.

Altitude: 3,600 m

Departure from Lo Manthang via an alternative, more discreet and less frequented route . The trail gradually moves away from the capital to cross vast desert expanses, between open valleys and rock formations sculpted by erosion.

The day is longer, with varied terrain and very open landscapes, typical of Upper Mustang.

Arrival at the end of the day in the remote village of Yara , nestled in the heart of the high-altitude desert. Check-in at the lodge and time to rest.

Night in Yara.

Altitude: 3,600 m

A day dedicated to exploring the area around Yara , one of the most isolated villages in Upper Mustang. The trails lead to ancient hamlets, caves carved into the cliff face , and sites steeped in history, bearing witness to a very ancient human presence.

The day also allows you to visit the Luri monastery , one of the most remarkable in the region, nestled in a spectacular mineral setting.

Return to Yara at the end of the day. Free time to relax and enjoy the village.

Night in Yara.

Altitude: 3,500 m

Departure from Yara towards Charang , former capital of the Lo kingdom. The trail crosses open and arid landscapes, typical of Upper Mustang, alternating between wide valleys and more enclosed passages.

Arriving in Charang marks another cultural highlight of the trek. Visit the red monastery of Tsarang , dating from the 14th century, then the royal palace of the 16th century , major witnesses to the history and influence of the kingdom of Lo in the region.

Check-in at the lodge and free time.

Night in Charang.

Departure by vehicle towards Tatopani , with a stop en route at Muktinath , one of Nepal's most important pilgrimage sites, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. Time to explore this iconic site, perched high in the mountains, and observe the rituals that take place there.

The road then continues south, gradually leaving the arid landscapes of Upper Mustang behind and entering greener valleys. Arrival in Tatopani at the end of the day.

Free time to enjoy the natural hot springs .

Night in Tatopani.

Departure towards Pokhara , following the road that runs alongside rivers and valleys. The landscape gradually changes, leaving behind the arid terrain to find denser vegetation and lively villages.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel, still located in the Lakeside district. Free time to relax, stroll along the lake, and find souvenirs.

In the evening, dine at one of the best local restaurants to enjoy a dal bhat , a traditional Nepalese dish, before a comfortable night in Pokhara.

Night in Pokhara.

Altitude: 1,200 m

After breakfast, departure from Pokhara towards Kathmandu . Transfer to the bus station, then comfortable bus journey through the rolling landscapes of central Nepal.

The road follows the course of rivers in places and passes through villages, terraced fields and verdant hills, offering a final immersion in rural Nepalese life . Breaks are planned along the way to stretch your legs and enjoy the journey.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel , check-in and free time to rest or enjoy the city depending on the arrival time.

Altitude: 1,400 m

Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Kathmandu International Airport.

Last smiles, last exchanges with the local team, before heading back to your base camp .

The images, voices and emotions of the Himalayas still resonate long after… like an invitation to return, one day, to walk these paths again.