Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang Trek takes trekkers into one of Nepal’s most culturally unique and geographically distinct regions. Often referred to as the Last Forbidden Kingdom, Upper Mustang was closed to foreign travelers until the early 1990s. The region preserves ancient Tibetan culture, historic monasteries, and desert like landscapes rarely found elsewhere in Nepal.

Located in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Upper Mustang features arid cliffs, eroded canyons, and colorful rock formations. The trek typically begins from Jomsom and follows the Kali Gandaki valley toward the walled city of Lo Manthang, the cultural heart of the region.

Lo Manthang is a major highlight of the trek. This ancient capital features royal palaces, monasteries, and traditional mud brick houses reflecting centuries of preserved heritage. Trekkers also explore ancient caves, chortens, and monastic settlements throughout the region.

The trek usually takes around 12 to 15 days and is considered moderately challenging due to altitude and dry terrain. However, it does not involve extreme technical difficulty.

Upper Mustang Trek is ideal for travelers interested in cultural history, photography, and unique Himalayan landscapes. Its dry climate also makes it suitable for trekking during monsoon season when other regions experience heavy rainfall.