Leaving Geling, you’ll trek towards Nyala, passing through the driest part of Mustang. The trail turns westward, leading you through fields below Tama Gaon before turning north to reach Nyala at 4000m above sea level.

After descending to Ghami, the largest settlement in the Lo region, you’ll cross the Ghami river and walk along one of the longest Mani walls in Nepal. The trail then turns eastward, leading to the village of Tsarang.

Tsarang, situated atop the Tsarang Chu Canyon, is home to an impressive Dzong (fortress) and Red Gompa (monastery), showcasing exceptional statues and Thangkas (scroll paintings).

Before heading to Lo-Manthang, take some time to explore Tsarang village and the Red Gompa. The trail then climbs up the valley, passing isolated chortens that separate Tsarang from Lo-Manthang, also known as the “Plains of Aspiration.”

As you approach the windy Lo pass, you’ll get your first glimpse of the walled city of Lo-Manthang, the capital of this forbidden kingdom. This is where you’ll encounter the residence of the King of Mustang, though the monarchy is no longer officially recognized.

The return journey begins with a walk through juniper-studded pastures, offering a final look back at Lo-Manthang. You’ll take the same route back along the Kali Gandaki, as the eastern part is less inhabited and more challenging.

You’ll cross the highest pass of the trek, Lugri La (4200m), before descending through a yellow canyon to Tamar. The landscape here is characterized by fields in the southern and western parts of the valley and large red vertical cliffs to the northwest.

The trail passes numerous caves before climbing a hill that brings you above Ghami, where you’ll spend the night.

Today’s trek takes you from Ghami to the top of Nyala, then down the other side of the pass. Instead of going via Geling, you’ll take a direct route via Tamagaun.

After about two hours, you’ll reach Shyangmochen for a lunch break. Post-lunch, you’ll ascend to Yanda La before descending to Samar and finally to Chele. The descent offers great views of Nilgiri and Tilicho Peak.

The final day of trekking is a long walk from Chele to Jomsom via Kagbeni. You’ll pass through Chusang, climb a steep ridge to Tangbe, then descend to the riverbed for the remaining trail to Kagbeni.

After lunch in Kagbeni, you’ll continue through the Kali Gandaki to reach Jomsom. Here, you’ll celebrate the success of your Upper Mustang trek with your colleagues and staff members.

After breakfast, you’ll head to Jomsom airport for your flight back to Pokhara. The 20-30 minute flight takes you through the gorge between two high mountains (Annapurna and Dhaulagiri), offering one last visual treat of the stunning Himalayan landscape.

We also run Upper Mustang Jeep Tour for travelers who prefer driving rather than trekking.

Most days involve 5 to 7 hours of walking over dry, dusty trails with some steady climbs and descents. Altitude is moderate, but wind and basic facilities can make the trek feel tougher than the numbers suggest.

Accommodation in Upper Mustang is basic but clean. Most tea houses offer twin rooms with shared toilets. Hot showers are available in some villages for an extra charge, and charging devices is often possible via solar power.

Meals are simple and filling, typically dal bhat, noodles, soups, potatoes, and Tibetan bread. Meat is limited in remote villages. For many people, vegetarian meals feel easier at altitude and are more consistently available.

Experienced guides typically start walking early in the morning to avoid the harsh winds and dust storms that often begin after midday. For a deeper seasonal breakdown, see Mustang weather and temperature.

Here’s a quick list of items you shouldn’t forget (see our full recommended packing list for Nepal for details):

• Hiking boots and trekking socks
• Sunglasses and sunscreen (the desert climate can be harsh)
• Sleeping bag (nights can be cold)
• Reusable water bottle and water purification method
• Face mask (for dusty trails)
• Toilet paper
• Warm layers (temperatures can drop significantly at night)
• Basic first-aid items and any personal medication

While Upper Mustang is not as high as some Nepal treks, altitude can still affect people (read our altitude sickness safety guide if you want a simple checklist). Walk at a steady pace, drink regularly, and tell your guide early if you feel unwell.

The 10-day Upper Mustang trek is a rare journey into Nepal’s high desert and a culture shaped by centuries of trade, faith, and isolation. If you’re looking for a quieter route with strong cultural experiences and dramatic terrain, this trek delivers something very different from Nepal’s busier trails.

From the forbidden kingdom’s rich Tibetan culture to its striking desert landscape of colorful rock formations and deep gorges, the Upper Mustang trek provides a lifetime of memories. The untouched scenery, largely unchanged for centuries, will leave you in awe of this hidden Himalayan paradise.

Whether you’re drawn by the region’s rich history, stunning landscapes, or the allure of trekking through a long-restricted area, the Upper Mustang trek promises an unforgettable journey into one of Nepal’s most captivating destinations.

If you’d like help choosing dates, understanding permits, or customizing this itinerary, you can contact us. Tell us your travel window and trekking experience, and we’ll suggest the most suitable plan.