Dolpo to Mustang Trek

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu/ (1400 m)

Upon our arrival in Kathmandu, a representative from Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage will pick us up from the airport and take us to our hotel. In the afternoon, we may take a rest or visit Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage office. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage. For dinner, you will be served excellent authentic Nepalese cuisine. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2 : Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m)/ flight

After our short excursion in Kathmandu, we take an hour-long flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, located in Western Nepal. Nepalgunj, a town near the Nepal-India border, is also the gateway to Simikot, Humla. The town itself is an interesting Terai town that showcases the diverse culture of Nepal. In Nepalgunj, we visit the local market, mini-zoo and nearby villages. Overnight in Nepalgunj.

Day 3 : Nepalgunj to Juphal (2475m)/ flight and Juphal to Dunai/ 3 hrs trek

We fly to Jhupal after breakfast. The town is beautifully located over the Himalayan foothills, with views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks to its north. Here, we meet our trekking staff and begin the adventure. We walk through terraced fields to the Bheri River and its narrow gorge. We continue walking to Dunai, which is the administrative headquarter of the Dolpo region. We explore the small town in the evening and camp there for theTented camp

Day 4 : Trek From Dunai to Chhepka (2687m)/ 6 hrs

From Dunai we trek to Chhepka, which has few houses and a lodge. It will take us almost 6 hours to reach Chhepka and we will spend the night at the Tented camp.

Day 5 : Chhepka to Chunuwar (3110m)/ 6 hrs

Today we follow a trail that goes up and down along the forested riverbed. There are several streams on the way that offers a chance to cool off. The trail continues along the valley floor to the confluence of the Phoksundo and Pungmo Khola (rivers). We cross to the western side of the Phoksundo Khola and reach Sumduwa. Sumduwa is a major trail junction. As its name suggests ‘Sum’ in Tibetan means three and ‘Duwa’ means trail. It is also the Shey Phoksundo National Park’s headquarters. Traveling for nearly 6 hours we will reach our destination for the night

Day 6 : Chunuwar to Phoksundo Lake (3600m)/ 5-6 hrs

We will join the direct trail to Lake Phoksumdo today which would take us nearly 5-6 hours of walking. We will traverse through forests that have huge cedar trees and reach Palam (3710m), a winter settlement used by the people of the Ringmo village. The entry point for the Shey Phoksundo National Park is at the south end of the village. The route then descends on switchbacks through open country to an elevation of 3300 meters and then starts up another set of a dusty roller coaster walk to a ridge at 3780 meter that leads to the highest waterfall in Nepal (200 meters high). Our route then continues on to Ringmo village, a picturesque settlement of flat-roofed stone houses with lots of Mani walls. Just after Ringmo we cross a bridge and follow the trail to Phoksumdo Lake, where we camp at the national park camping grounds on the western side of the lake.

Day 7 : Phoksundo – Rest day

We take a halt at the Lake Phoksundo campsite to get acclimatized to the area and the prevailing weather conditions. Taking advantage of this fact, we can explore the area around the magnificent Phoksundo Lake. The lake is famous for its magnificent turquoise color and spectacular scenery. Ringmo village, which looks like a typical Tibetan village, is scenically nestled in the area. Many beautiful glaciers can be found near and above the lake area. There are many monasteries (Gompas) and Bon-Po religious sites at the park and we can spend some of our time visiting these. The most famous, Shey Gompa was established in the 11th Century. Thashung Gompa located near Phoksundo Lake was built about 900 years ago. We also explore the natural scenery and enjoy our nature tour

Day 8 : Trek from Phoksundo to Sallaghari (5-6 hrs)

After an early breakfast in the serene village of Phoksundo, surrounded by the turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake, we begin our trek towards Sallaghari. The trail gently climbs through lush alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Along the way, we encounter traditional Dolpo villages and cross small wooden suspension bridges over sparkling streams, observing local life and the unique Tibetan-influenced culture. As we ascend, the terrain gradually becomes more rugged, revealing the stark beauty of the Dolpo landscape. By afternoon, we reach Sallaghari, a peaceful campsite where we can relax, enjoy a warm meal, and soak in the tranquil mountain atmosphere, preparing for the journey ahead. Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition ensures that every step is guided safely, with opportunities to experience both nature and culture in this remote region.

Day 9 : Trek From Sallaghari to Nangdala HC (4717 m)/ 5-6 hrs trek

From Sallaghari we trek to Kangla base camp or furthermore Nangdola camp traversing through Mandala camp. Owing to Bon Po influence some people called the surrounding place is also renowned as Mandala Camp, we will walk through this camp to our destination.

Day 10 : Nangdala HC to Shey Gompa/ ( 4280m) Crossing Nangdala pass (5240m)/ 5-6hrs

Today we walk for five to six hours to the fabled Shey Gompa and the nearby ‘Crystal Mountain’. It is considered to be the most sacred peak in Dolpo which Dolpo pilgrims circumambulate each summer before the harvest. We are now entering the actual Dolpo region, and to enter into this mystical land we have to cross the Kangla Pass also popular as the Nangdola. We trek along the precipitous and narrow trail to the western side of the lake, otherwise known as the ‘Devil’s Trail’. Cresting a 4000-meter ridge, we are treated to the magnificent view of Sonam Kang. We can also see the peaks Shey Shikkar and Kang Chunne, both just over 6000 meters. The trail then descends steeply down to the valley floor and along the river. A red chorten marks the entrance to Shey, where we camp for the night.

Day 11 : Shey Gompa to Namgung Gompa / 6-7 hrs crossing Shey La Pass (5100m)

We walk for about 6 hours to reach the Namgong Gompa from Shey Gompa that is said to be about 800 years old. It has some ancient beautiful murals inside and a scroll that describes the mythology behind the Crystal Mountain, locally called Riu Dhukta, and the Gompa. Peter Matthiessen wrote quite a lot about his stay at Shey in his book ‘The Snow Leopard’, and it was also shown in Eric Valli’s movie ‘Caravan’ as Thinley’s son’s Gompa. After crossing the Ge La (Se La) Pass west of Shey, we are treated to a magnificent view of Mustang to the East, Tibet to the North and Kanjiroba, Kagmara and Riu Dhukta, or the Crystal Mountain, to the West. We spend our night at Namgong, a local nomadic herding settlement.

Day 12 : Trek From Namgong Gompa to Saldang/ 4-5 hrs camping.

For six hours we walk from Namgong Gompa to Yanger Gompa, which lies on the old trade route to Tibet. We follow the Namga Khola past more summer herding spots, to the large village of Saldang. We’ll get a chance to visit some local houses, drink some salt butter tea or chang (Tibetan barley beer) and sample the local fare. This is the short but stunning day on the high trail leading to Saldang, with a large bird of prey and sometimes we can see the migrating Demoiselle Cranes above us and crossing many sodas and villagers on the way. After few hours of walking, we crest ridge topped with prayer flags and below of us, we can see the Saldang with dun Colored Mountain to the north bordering on Tibet. Also, you can see the trail to the Pamzang valley from the ridge and can pick out much of our trail after leaving Saldang. After crossing and walking several climbs and descends we reach Caravan Thinley’s typically Tibetan style house at the north end of the village where we will stop for some butter tea and a cup of Tibetan Barley Beer or popular as “Chang”. If time and physical conditions permit us then we will head 1 hour north along the Nagon Khola, to reach Yanger Gompa, where we set up camp for the night.

Day 13 : Saldang to Day hike to Yangjer Gumba/ 4599m

After crossing and walking several climbs and descends we reach Caravan Thinley’s typically Tibetan style house at the north end of the village where we will stop for some butter tea and a cup of Tibetan Barley Beer or popular as “Chang”. If time and physical conditions permit us then we will head 1 hour north along the Nagon Khola, to reach Yanger Gompa, where we set up camp for the night.

Day 14 : Saldang to Khoma village

After a long walk of 6 hours, we will reach Khoma that bears a striking resemblance to a typical Tibetan village with the stunning beauty of villagers, Purely Tibetan lifestyle and hospitality make this place best trekking in the entire Himalaya. We walk passing the Saldang Gompa along the trail of Dho to the Nagon Khola through Sugugaon which is a stunning whitewashed village and past long Mani walls with painted Chorten and ancient Gompas at the cliffs. At Chagaon, we cross the Nagon Khola on a small bridge and walk straight up the dusty ridge on the steep, rocky trail for an hour. Descending to a dry, black riverbed we again ascend to a grassy plateau where we will stop for a much-needed lunch break after a long walk. After lunch, we walk 15 minutes to the Khoma La (4565m), from where we descend slowly to reach the stunning village of Khoma Gaon where we camp in the middle of the town at the grassy land.

Day 15 : Trek From Khoma village to Shimen

As we trek from Khoma village, if we are lucky enough we may be able to see some endangered animals like a snow leopard or Blue Sheep. On the way, we pass small villages that look right out of the picture postcards. We stop at Simen village for lunch. After lunch, we will explore Simen Gompa which is in the middle of town and we can stop for a while to see this picturesque Gompa and see the culture and traditions of the local people, where villagers will be threshing their barley. We walk further passing the Mani walls with old chortens and descend to the river. We follow this trail for about an hour to reach our campsite for the day. The place is called Mendo, a seasonal doksa with a Mani wall and stone fields. This is a beautiful but cold place as it loses the sun very early and does not get until late morning.

Day 16 : Trek From Shimen to Tinje 5-6 Hours

Today we will head south along the Panjyan (Panzang) Khola passing the two trails leading north to the border of Tibet on our left, we will see more Mani walls and further along Pu Gompa on the other side of the river. We can see the Namgyal Chorten soaring up at the hill across the river. We will walk to the seasonal village and then to the small hamlet of Phalwa, where another route headed off to the north heading to the Tibetan border, shows the importance of the trade with Tibet is still to the Dolpo-Pa. After that, we will cross the intersecting stream and ascend to an impressive group of large chortens and Mani walls with colorful Tibetan flags and continue another hour to the Thinje. It is a large and renowned village where many villagers acting in the movie “Himalaya”. Tenjin Norbu, the well known “Ngagpa”, painter of Dolpo also comes from this village. Similarly, in the old times, his ancestors also monk painters traveled to Lo Manthang in Mustang to pay their tribute in Murals, Mani walls, and Thankas.

Day 17 : Trek From Tinje to Yak Kharka 6-7 Hours

Tinje From Chharka we climb down to a river and follow the right fork southward, climbing in and out of the side valleys on a rough trail. The valley narrows here and we then step on to a big meadow and walk to our campsite at Yak Kharka.

Day 18 : Yak Kharka (4780m) to Chharka / 5 hrs walk crossing Mola Pass (5030m)

We begin the day by starting our climb to a yak pasture at Molum Sumdo (4860m) and further on to a crest at 5130m. We then traverse across meadows and then make a long, steep final climb to Ghok Pass at 5460m. We will come down the switchbacks to reach our campsite by a stream at 5100m.

Day 19 : Trek from Chharka to Norbulung / Nulungsumda

Today, we leave the remote village of Chharka and follow a trail that winds through the rugged high-altitude terrain of Upper Dolpo. The trek takes us past stark cliffs, glacial streams, and expansive alpine valleys, with occasional glimpses of yaks grazing in the distance. The path is dotted with prayer flags fluttering in the crisp mountain air, creating a spiritual ambiance unique to this region. As we ascend gradually, we witness traditional stone and mud-brick settlements, where locals continue their age-old lifestyles, tending livestock and performing daily rituals. The journey is challenging but rewarding, culminating in the peaceful settlement of Norbulung, also known as Nulungsumda, where we set up camp. Here, under the shadow of towering peaks, we enjoy a warm meal, share stories with fellow trekkers, and rest in preparation for tomorrow’s high-altitude crossings. Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition ensures that trekkers experience the authenticity of this untouched Himalayan region while maintaining safety and comfort.

Day 20 : Nulungsumda / Norbulung to Ghalden Ghuldum (4247m), Crossing Niwala (5120m) and Jungbenla (5550m) Passes

Today marks one of the most adventurous and breathtaking days of the trek as we navigate two high mountain passes, Niwala at 5120 meters and Jungbenla at 5550 meters, before descending to Ghalden Ghuldum at 4247 meters. The day begins with a steady climb from Nulungsumda, through rocky ridges and snow-dusted slopes, offering panoramic views of jagged Himalayan peaks and deep valleys below. Crossing the Niwala Pass, we are rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding Dolpo landscape, where the silence of the mountains is only broken by the wind and the occasional prayer bell from distant monasteries. The trail then ascends further to Jungbenla Pass, where the panoramic views of Mustang’s barren, yet majestic terrain unfold before us. Descending from the pass, we finally reach Ghalden Ghuldum, a tranquil high-altitude campsite where we rest, reflect on the challenging journey, and savor the sense of accomplishment. Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition provides experienced guidance and support, ensuring a safe and memorable passage through these remote Himalayan passes.

Day 21 : Trek to Sangda Village

We climb to a lower Sangda La at 4990m and then descend through loose shale towards the village of Sangda (4190m). We will come down to the Chalung Khola, crossing it at 3750m, and then climb steeply up the opposite bank. A long high traverse leads to a cairn at 4090 meters after which we come to a set of steep switchbacks that descend to a stream at 3580m. We climb up to the compact settlement of Sangda where we will settle for the night. Sangda is a remote village of Gurung Tibetans originally from Mustang. This is blue sheep territory, so be ready with your binoculars

Day 22 : Trek From Santa to Phalyak/ (3175m)

We start climbing the hill behind Sangda and spend most of the day making a high traverse, crossing nine ridges to a final crest at 4280m. We then come down into the Kali Gandaki Valley, walking under high cliffs and descending to the large village of Phalek. We can see the stunning view of Kagbeni, Jharkot, Muktinath, Thorung Peak, the Thorung La, Niligiri, Dhaulagiri and the Kali Gandaki. Phalek is an attractive Mustangi village which holds a yearly archery festival as most of the Mustangi and Managi villages do.

Day 23 : Trek From Phalyak to Jomsom/ (2720m)

From Phalek we climb to a ridge that is at an altitude of 3360m and make a final descent on a challenging trail consisting of loose rocks to reach Jomsom located at 2670 meters above sea level.

Day 24 : Trek From jomsom to Kagbeni -4 hours

This is a large town, headquarter of the Mustang region; it is also a major village on the Kaligandaki area linking the age old Trans-Himalayan Salt Trade route to Tibet. In may visit an interesting wind swept villages situated on the main age old Trans Himalayan salt trade route to Tibet via Upper Mustang area. O/N at Lodge.

Day 25 : Trek From Kagbeni-Chusang (2850m.) 4-5 hours

Kagbeni to Chele Actually, Kagbeni is the entry point to upper Mustang. From Kagbeni, trail leads up the east bank of Kali Gandaki and climbs over many ridges as it head north. After, that, through the interesting cave, Gompa crossing place of Tangbeegetation is almost non- – existent except for small shrubs and thorn bushes. The Kaligandaki canyon is awe-inspiring. However, the trail is kept lively with several passing mule trains and horsemen bearing wares from after. This day is uphill, quite steep at times up to the little village of Tangbe 2900m where we stop for lunch. Then after the path flattens out up to Chusang a fairly large settlement inhabited mostly by a mixed ethnic group of Gurungs, Thakalis and some families from the land of Lo. There is a small Buddhist Gompa constructed out of stone and mud across the river, which can only be reached during the colder months when water is low. By itself Chusang is a very interesting village with narrow covered alleys running through the cente, Chhuksang 5/6 hours. Overnight at Lodge.

Day 26 : Trek From Chusang-Samar (3050 m) approx.,4 hrs

The trail widens significantly an en Chusang-Samar (3050 m) approx.,4 hrs

Having entered this long and secluded valley one feels also a distinct change, not only to topography but there is a world of difference in culture, lifestyle and landscape. Settlements are more scattered, smaller and basic. The people of Lo or Mustang practice agriculture but because of the lack of the rain and fertile soil, cultivation is in sheltered plots of land making the landscape of a pattern of brown with scattered patches of shaded greens. A little ahead of Chusang we cross a small bridge across the Mustang Khola River, across which is colorful little village called Chaili. The trail then veers northwest along steep lines right up to the village of Samar, out campsite, making it a tough four hours walk. Samar is a very old and small village situated amongst a grove of trees with a stream running through the middle.

Day 27 : Trek From Samar-Gelling (3720 m) , approx., 5 hrs

As in all desert lands, settlements in Mustang are in oasis village most houses are constructed out of mud and stones with roof cast out of twins, straw and a mixture of mud and pebbles. The trail descends crossing couple of mountain streams followed by a fairly flat stretch of two hours before we arrive into a wide valley. The Gelling village is located an hour walk away to the right of the main trail and in a valley between two hills. North of the village lies a Buddhist Gompa, which, though new contains exquisite wall paintings.

Day 28 : Trek From Gelling-Charang (3520 m), approx., 5 hrs

At the place of Geling, the trail climbs gently through field up the centre of the valley; it passes above Tama Gaon and its imposing Chorten. After crosses Tangmar Chu River, with a short climbing enters Charang (3490m). Walking time takes about 5/6 hours, Overnight at Lodge.

Day 29 : Trek From Tsarang- Lo Mangthang (3840m).5-6 hours

Lomanthang is the capital city of upper Mustang. We will spend part of the morning exploring the interesting village of Charang and its large monastery, before setting out for Lo Manthang. We climb gently above the valley to a large isolated Chorten that marks the boundary between Charang and Lo Manthang. The trail then broadens and eventually we get our first view of the walled city of Lo Manthang. The city has only one entrance so we circumambulate the wall to the gate on the north-east corner’s/N at Lodge

Day 30 : Lo-Manthang – 2. Visit to the villages (Garphu, Dhuk, Barcha, Nenyul). Lo-Manthang – 2. Visit to the villages (Garphu, Dhuk, Barcha, Nenyul).

Today, you are free to explore the fascinating Village of Lo Manthang. The city contains about 150 houses, as well as residences for its many lamas. There are four major temples within the village and one of these, Champa Lhakang, contains a huge clay statue of Buddha as well as elaborates mandalas painted on the walls. The king’s palace is an imposing building in the center of the city and is occupied by the current King and Queen. Although his duties are largely ceremonial, the King is respected by the people. Throughout the kingdom, the villagers continue to seek his advice regarding many issues. It is possible to hire horses to visit these valleys, but this short tour will incur extra costs./N at Lodge.

Day 31 : Trek from Lo-Manthang to Yara Gaon (3650m) – 6-7 hrs

Leaving the ancient walled city of Lo-Manthang, we follow a moderate trail towards Yara Gaon, winding gently through the undulating landscapes of Upper Mustang. Along the way, the trail passes through two small traditional villages where we can observe the unique Tibetan-influenced lifestyle, with prayer flags adorning stone houses and yak herders tending their flocks. The trek offers captivating views of barren hills, red cliffs, and terraced fields. As we approach Yara, the village sits quietly amidst the mountains, offering a peaceful campsite for the night. The sense of remoteness and cultural authenticity here is remarkable, making it a memorable stop before continuing deeper into Mustang. Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition ensures a seamless experience, balancing adventure with comfort.

Day 32 : Trek from Yara to Tangge (3240m) – 6-7 hrs

Today’s trek from Yara to Tangge is moderate, featuring gradual ascents and descents through Mustang’s stark and mesmerizing landscape. The trail leads us along rocky ridges, narrow passes, and open valleys dotted with traditional farmhouses. En route, we can enjoy views of distant cliffs and winding streams, while the occasional fluttering prayer flags create a spiritual ambiance. Tangge village awaits at the end of the day, where we settle into a quiet campsite. Here, trekkers can interact with local villagers and appreciate the Tibetan-influenced architecture and customs. Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition carefully plans every stage, ensuring both safety and cultural immersion throughout the journey.

Day 33 : Trek from Tangge (3240m) to Chhusang (2980m) – 7-8 hrs

From Tangge, we descend gradually towards Chhusang, enjoying some of the most scenic viewpoints along the Mustang trek. The trail passes through dramatic cliffs, deep gorges, and rocky landscapes, revealing the natural grandeur of Upper Mustang. Midway, there are several vantage points perfect for photography, offering breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding valleys and terraced fields. By late afternoon, we reach Chhusang, a picturesque village known for its ancient caves carved into red cliffs. The evening is spent at a comfortable campsite, sharing stories of the day’s trek while soaking in the serene atmosphere. Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition ensures trekkers experience both the adventure of the trail and the rich local culture.

Day 34 : Trek from Chhusang to Jomsom (2720m) via Kagbeni (2810m) – 6-7 hrs

The trek today leads us from Chhusang to Jomsom, passing through the charming village of Kagbeni. The path is enjoyable and relatively moderate, with opportunities to stop at teashops along the way for refreshments and local snacks. We cross narrow trails and walk along the Kali Gandaki River, witnessing the contrast of Mustang’s barren cliffs with lush green riverbanks. Arriving in Jomsom, trekkers are greeted by a small town atmosphere, with amenities for a restful evening. This leg combines scenic beauty, cultural interaction, and relaxation after weeks of trekking. Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition provides full support to make this final stretch comfortable and memorable.

Day 35 : Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara and same-day flight to Kathmandu

Today we take a morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, offering aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges—a stunning finale to our trek. On arrival in Pokhara, we catch the afternoon flight to Kathmandu, returning to the bustling capital after our weeks in the remote Himalayas. This day combines the thrill of mountain flights with the comfort of urban amenities, providing time to rest, reflect, and celebrate the completion of the Dolpo to Mustang trek. Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition coordinates all flights and transfers to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Day 36 : Rest day in Kathmandu

After weeks of trekking through remote Himalayan terrain, today is a well-deserved rest day in Kathmandu. Trekkers can explore the vibrant streets, visit ancient temples, or simply relax at their hotel. This day allows time to recover physically and mentally, organize photos, and reflect on the adventure through Dolpo and Mustang. Kathmandu offers a blend of history, culture, and cuisine that provides a perfect contrast to the remote villages we have traversed. Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition ensures your stay is comfortable and provides guidance for local excursions if desired.

Day 37 : Fly back home

On the final day, Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu according to your flight schedule. As you board your flight, you carry memories of stunning Himalayan landscapes, ancient villages, and cultural encounters that will last a lifetime. The journey concludes with the satisfaction of completing one of Nepal’s most adventurous treks, combining physical challenge, spiritual immersion, and unforgettable scenic beauty.