Upper Mustang’s Lo Manthang offers several trek options, each revealing different aspects of this remarkable walled city. My favorite is the 15-day Forbidden Kingdom trek from Kathmandu – it’s perfect for those wanting the full cultural experience. A shorter 10-day trek from Pokhara works well for travelers with limited time who still want to see the essential Tibetan influences. For serious trekkers, the longer 16-17 day Upper Mustang routes let you really understand the region’s monasteries and mountain passes. Festival enthusiasts will love the 14-day Mysteries trek, timed perfectly with the colorful Tiji Festival. Let’s explore these top treks in detail.
Key Points
- The Royal Mustang Trek offers an 8-hour guided tour with scenic views of the Himalayas and visits to Tibetan monasteries and the Muktinath temple.
- The 15-Day Forbidden Kingdom Upper Mustang Trek provides a comprehensive 15-day itinerary exploring ancient trade routes, Tibetan-influenced culture, and untouched Himalayan beauty.
- The Short Upper Mustang Trek from Pokhara is a 10-day trek focusing on Tibetan heritage, including visits to the historic capital of Lo-Manthang.
- The Comprehensive 16 and 17-Day Upper Mustang Treks offer in-depth explorations of ancient caves, landscapes, and Tibetan culture, with small group experiences.
- The Mysteries of the Forbidden Kingdom Trek is a 14-day trek that includes attendance at the vibrant Tiji Festival in the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang.
Royal Mustang Trek
The Royal Mustang Trek offers trekkers an opportunity to explore the captivating region of Upper Mustang, a former forbidden kingdom nestled in the rain-shadow of the Himalayas.
Priced from $2,154.45 per person, this 8-hour trek features a combination of bus, coach, and airplane transportation.
Highlights include guided tours, sightseeing, and hiking to see the views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri, as well as cultural exploration of Tibetan monasteries, prayer flags, and the Muktinath temple.
Suitable for beginners, the trek provides scenic beauty, cultural insights, and a mild difficulty level.
Included are accommodations, meals, permits, and an experienced English-speaking guide and porter.
Read our full review: Royal Mustang Trek Review
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You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Lo Manthang.
Kathmandu: 15-Day Forbidden Kingdom Upper Mustang Trek
Set out on a captivating 15-day trek from Kathmandu that unveils the mystical wonders of Upper Mustang, a former forbidden kingdom nestled in the rain-shadow of the Himalayas.
Priced from $2,284.79 per person, this all-inclusive package offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Trek along ancient trade routes, discover untouched beauty, and immerse in Tibetan-influenced culture. Highlights include visiting ancient monasteries, exploring the walled city of Lo Manthang, and hiking to Poon Hill.
With a professional English-speaking guide, one porter, and all necessary permits, this private trek is perfect for adventurous travelers.
However, it’s not suitable for those with health conditions or low fitness levels.
Pack wisely and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the Forbidden Kingdom.
Read our full review: Kathmandu: 15-Day Forbidden Kingdom Upper Mustang Trek Review
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From Pokhara: Short Upper Mustang Trek 10 Days
Intrepid adventurers seeking a compact yet immersive exploration of Upper Mustang’s rich Tibetan heritage will find the Short Upper Mustang Trek from Pokhara a captivating 10-day journey.
Priced at $1,479.87 per person, this small-group trek showcases the ancient Tibetan Buddhist kingdom, from visiting the historic capital of Lo-Manthang to interacting with locals and immersing in remote Himalayan adventure.
Highlights include unique Tibetan-influenced cultures, with a live English-speaking guide leading the way. The itinerary covers Jomsom, Kagbeni, Chele, Geling, Tsarang, and more, reaching up to 3,730m in altitude.
Inclusions range from airport pickup to accommodation, meals, and porter service, making this a comprehensive experience for those short on time but big on ambition.
Read our full review: From Pokhara: Short Upper Mustang Trek 10 Days Review
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16 Days Upper Mustang Trek From Kathmandu
Travelers seeking a more in-depth exploration of Upper Mustang can opt for the 16-day trek from Kathmandu. This comprehensive itinerary takes adventurers on a journey through ancient caves, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant Tibetan culture.
The trek begins with a flight to Jomsom, followed by 12 days of trekking through the remote villages and monasteries of Upper Mustang. Highlights include visiting the Mustang Palace and immersing in the region’s unique heritage.
The trek concludes with a return to Jomsom and a final flight to Pokhara before heading back to Kathmandu. With permits, transportation, and meals included, this comprehensive package offers an unparalleled experience in the Nepalese Himalayas.
Read our full review: 16 Days Upper Mustang Trek From Kathmandu Review
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From Kathmandu: Upper Mustang Trek – 17 Days
The 17-day Upper Mustang trek from Kathmandu offers adventurers a comprehensive exploration of this ancient Buddhist Kingdom.
Priced from €1,500 per person, the trek showcases the remote landscapes of Upper Mustang, including views of the Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri mountains.
Highlights include visiting the ancient capital of Lo-Manthang, exploring centuries-old monasteries, and interacting with the local culture untouched by modernization.
The itinerary covers 10 days of trekking through picturesque villages, with all transportation, accommodation, meals, and permits included.
Participants are limited to 15 for a small group experience, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: From Kathmandu: Upper Mustang Trek – 17 Days Review
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Upper Mustang Trek Adventure: Mysteries of Forbidden Kingdom
This 14-day Upper Mustang trek takes adventurers on a captivating journey into the Mysteries of the Forbidden Kingdom.
Priced from $1,418.41 per person, the trek offers the opportunity to discover the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, explore picturesque villages, and experience the spiritual ambiance of Buddhist monasteries.
Highlights include attending the vibrant Tiji Festival and trekking through scenic landscapes.
Included in the package are airport transfers, domestic flights, accommodation, meals, and licensed guides.
While international airfare and travel insurance aren’t included, the trek boasts free cancellation and no initial payment required to reserve a spot.
Read our full review: Upper Mustang Trek Adventure: Mysteries of Forbidden Kingdom Review
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15 Days Upper Mustang Trek
Over the course of the 15-day Upper Mustang trek, adventurers will embark on an immersive journey through the captivating landscapes and cultural tapestry of this remote region.
The trek begins with arrival in Kathmandu and sightseeing in the valley, followed by a flight to Pokhara and drive to Jomsom.
Trekkers will then make their way through the dramatic desert-like terrain, encountering ancient monasteries, sacred caves, and the walled city of Lo Manthang.
Along the way, they’ll witness breathtaking Himalayan vistas and enjoy the unique Tibetan culture and traditions of the region.
The trek culminates with a return to Pokhara and Kathmandu.
Read our full review: 15 Days Upper Mustang Trek Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Permits Required for the Upper Mustang Trek?
For the Upper Mustang trek, trekkers need a special permit from the Nepalese government. This restricted area permit is required to enter and travel through the Upper Mustang region. The permit cost varies depending on the group size and duration of the trek.
Can I Book the Upper Mustang Trek Online?
Yes, you can book the Upper Mustang trek online. Many tour operators offer online booking options for this popular trekking route in Nepal. Researching reputable agencies and securing the necessary permits are important steps in planning an Upper Mustang trek.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Do the Upper Mustang Trek?
The best time to do the Upper Mustang trek is typically between October and November or April and May, when the weather is mild and the skies are clear, offering the best views of the region’s dramatic landscapes.
What Is the Level of Difficulty of the Upper Mustang Trek?
The Upper Mustang trek is considered a moderate to difficult level trek. It involves long, strenuous days of hiking at high altitudes, crossing steep mountain passes, and dealing with the region’s dry, arid climate. Proper preparation and physical fitness are crucial for this challenging trek.
What Type of Accommodation Is Available During the Upper Mustang Trek?
During the Upper Mustang Trek, trekkers can expect a mix of basic teahouses and campsites. The accommodation ranges from simple lodges to basic camping facilities, providing basic amenities amidst the stunning Himalayan landscapes.
The Sum Up
Lo Manthang, the Forbidden Kingdom of Upper Mustang, offers intrepid trekkers a diverse range of hiking adventures. From the iconic Royal Mustang Trek to shorter 10-day excursions, these tours provide unparalleled opportunities to explore the region’s captivating landscapes, ancient monasteries, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time adventurer, there’s a trek tailored to your preferences and fitness level, ensuring an unforgettable journey through this enchanting corner of Nepal.