Upper Mustang Trek is a journey into Nepal’s once-forbidden “Kingdom of Lo,” offering a blend of stunning high-desert landscapes and rich Tibetan culture. This 14-day adventure leads you through medieval walled towns, ancient monasteries, and mysterious sky caves set against the backdrop of the Himalayas.
From the Kali Gandaki Valley up to the royal city of Lo Manthang, trekkers gain a rare glimpse of the Tibetan Buddhist world. Moreover, enjoy panoramic views of peaks like Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri. It’s an experience that combines natural beauty with cultural discovery, making the Upper Mustang Trek Nepal truly unique.
Mountain Eco Trails has designed a 14-Day Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary that offers the beauty of the Trans-Himalayan Region. With an easy to moderate level of difficulty, our guide will carefully lead you to the final destination of Upper Mustang. Contact us today to know more details regarding the trek to Upper Mustang.
Things to see during the 14-Day Upper Mustang Trek, Nepal
Lo Manthang
The city of Lho Manthang, a walled city, is the capital of the Upper Mustang Region. Lho Manthang-which surrounds it, means wall in the Tibetan Language. The visitors can feel the power of spirituality after entering this city. It is because of the monasteries, old houses, and the way this city is built. Interestingly, this city has a King to date. This city always hosts the largest and most famous Tiji Festival in May.
Tiji Festival
The Upper Mustang Trek in May allows the trekkers to experience the unique Tiji Festival in Lho Manthang. According to the myth, this festival is celebrated by the people marking the victory over the devil. The local people celebrate it by dancing and reciting mantras. It is an excellent opportunity to learn and cherish the culture and traditions of the local people.
Himalayas and Old Caves
The trek to Upper Mustang delivers excellent mountain views in both the North and South parts. However, most of the mountains are on the northern side. Nilgiri Himal, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other ranges can be seen during this trek.
Apart from the mountains, the Old Hill caves are the cultural display of this region. There are many habitable caves in the Mustang. People believe that the cave was made for shelter during the war. Similarly, holy gurus and Rinpoche use the caves as meditation places.
Why is the Upper Mustang Trek 14 Days Special?
Upper Mustang boasts a unique Tibetan-influenced culture and striking desert scenery. The region was a secluded kingdom until the 1990s, and Lo Manthang – the walled capital city. It still preserves centuries-old monasteries, palaces, and a way of life untouched by modernity.
Trekkers traverse a desert plateau with dramatic red and ochre cliffs, where “sky caves” and colourful chortens line the trails. These mysterious caves are used for meditation and burial.
The Tibetan Buddhist culture is ever-present, from mani stone walls and prayer flags to the friendly Lobas (Mustang locals) you meet in villages.
Along the way, you’ll also enjoy stunning Himalayan views: snow-capped peaks like Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri form a majestic backdrop above the arid valley. All these elements make the Upper Mustang Trek a special journey into a living museum of ancient Himalayan life.
Check our another trekking route near Mustang: Annapurn Circuit Trek
14 Day Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary – Day-to-Day Plan & Facts
The classic Upper Mustang Trek itinerary is about 14 days round-trip from Kathmandu, including a 10-day trek from Jomsom into Upper Mustang and back. Below is a day-by-day plan with routes, altitudes, and walking hours based on a typical Upper Mustang Trek 14 Days package:
Day | Route | Overnight Altitude | Walking Hours |
1 | Fly/Drive Kathmandu to Pokhara (820 m) | 820 m | (travel) |
2 | Fly to Jomsom (2,720 m), trek to Kagbeni | 2,810 m | 3 hours |
3 | Trek from Kagbeni to Chele | 3,050 m (Chele) | 5 hours |
4 | Trek Chele to Syanbochen (via Taklam La pass 3,624 m, Samar). | 3,475 m (Syanbochen) | 6 hours |
5 | Trek from Syanbochen to Ghami | 3,510 m | 7 hours |
6 | Trek from Ghami to Tsarang | 3500 m | 6 hours |
7 | Trek from Tsarang to Lho Manthang | 3800 m | 6 hours |
8 | Explore Lho Manthang | 3800 m | 3-4 hours |
9 | Trek from Lho Manthang to Drakmar | 3810 m | 6 hours |
10 | Trek from Drakmar to Ghiling | 3806 m | 5 hours |
11 | Trek from Ghiling to Chussang | 3050 m | 6 hours |
12 | Trek from Chussang to Jomsom | 2700 m | 7 hours |
13 | Fly to Pokhara | 850 m | – |
14 | Drive back to Kathmandu | 1350 m | _ |
14 Day Upper Mustang Trek Cost 2026, 2027
A typical Upper Mustang Trek 14 Days package costs ranges roughly USD $1,800–$2,200 per person, which covers permits, guide/porter services, transportation, meals, and lodging. The breakdown below shows key cost components for a mid-range package in 2026:
Cost Component | Approx. Cost (USD) |
Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – Upper Mustang | $500 per person |
Annapurna Conservation Permit (ACAP) | NPR 3,000 ($25–$30) one-time |
Licensed Guide (mandatory) – 14 days | $35–$40 per day ($420–$560 total) |
Porter (optional) – 14 days | $22–$30 per day ($280–$420 total) |
Transport – Flights (Pokhara ⇄ Jomsom) | $350–$400 for round-trip flights (per person) |
Trek Accommodation & Meals – Tea houses | ($560–$980 for 14 days) |
Misc. & Other – Gear rental, tips, etc. (Excluded) | Varies (personal expenses, travel insurance, etc.) |
Estimated Total (per person) | $1,800 – $2,200 |
Table: Upper Mustang Trek 2026 cost breakdown per person (approximate). The Upper Mustang Trek cost in 2026 is driven up by the RAP permit fees and the need for a guide, but sharing some costs (guide/jeep) in a group can keep it toward the lower end of the range.
Overall, plan for around $2,000 per person for a well-organised 14-day Upper Mustang Trek package in 2026. Feel Free to contact us via email or WhatsApp us at +9779849790153 for cost details or customisation.
Why choose Mountain Eco Trails for the Upper Mustang Trek?
Choosing the right trekking company can make a huge difference in your experience. Mountain Eco Trails specialises in arranging treks to Mustang, providing a balance of safety, professionalism, and local expertise. Here are a few reasons to trek with Mountain Eco Trails:
- Experienced crew members and official team.
- Flexible and customised Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary with personalised service.
- Complimentary Services like Duffel Bag, Trekking Poles, SIM Card, and an hour trekker's massage
- First Aid Kit with basic medication.
- Hassle-free last-minute booking and trip arrangements.
- Competitive and Fair price that matches the services and has no hidden costs.
- Special Discount for a group of trekkers of more than 5 Pax.
With Mountain Eco Trails, you trek with a trusted local company that prioritises your experience, safety, and the environment. We strive to turn your Mustang journey into an incredible memory you’ll cherish for life.
