Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. As you settle in, you can relax and recover from your journey. In the evening, we will have a short briefing about the upcoming adventure, ensuring you are well-prepared for the trip. You can explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, the tourist hub, and enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner at a local restaurant.
Today, Sightseeing tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. We start with a visit to Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), a stupa that offers panoramic views of the city. Next, we explore Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site along the Bagmati River, and then head to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. We also visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historical palace complex showcasing ancient Newari architecture. After the tour, we finalize trip preparations, check gear, and ensure everything is set for the adventure ahead.
After breakfast, Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara in a comfortable 4WD jeep. The journey follows winding roads along the Prithvi Highway, passing through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and river valleys. Along the way, we make brief stops for refreshments and enjoy the changing landscapes. Upon reaching Pokhara, a beautiful city nestled beside Phewa Lake, we check into our hotel. In the evening, you can take a relaxing walk along the lakeside, enjoying the breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre mountains.
Today, we begin our off-road adventure as we leave Pokhara and drive towards Beni, the district headquarters of Myagdi. From Beni, the road gets rougher as we ascend through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world. We pass through lush forests, terraced farmlands, and traditional villages before reaching Tatopani, a place famous for its natural hot springs. After a long drive, you can take a relaxing dip in the therapeutic hot springs to rejuvenate your body.
After breakfast, we continue our journey towards Kagbeni, a medieval village at the gateway to Upper Mustang. The drive takes us through Ghasa, Marpha, and Jomsom, passing through apple orchards and beautiful landscapes. Kagbeni is a picturesque village with ancient monasteries, narrow alleys, and traditional mud-brick houses. From Kagbeni, we drive uphill to Muktinath Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. Pilgrims from all over Nepal and India visit Muktinath to take a holy bath in the 108 water spouts, believing it cleanses sins. After exploring the temple and its surroundings, we return to Kagbeni for an overnight stay.
Today, we officially enter Upper Mustang, crossing the restricted area checkpoint. The drive offers spectacular views of the barren yet stunning landscapes of the Trans-Himalayan region. We pass through Chhusang and Chele before reaching Syangboche Pass (4200m), one of the highest points of our journey. The panoramic view from the pass is breathtaking, with the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges in the background. After descending from the pass, we reach Ghami Village, a small but beautiful settlement surrounded by red cliffs and ancient monasteries.
After breakfast, we drive towards Lo-Manthang, the walled capital of the Mustang Kingdom. The road takes us through Tsarang, where we visit an old monastery and an ancient palace. As we approach Lo-Manthang, the barren yet mesmerizing landscapes captivate us. Upon arrival, we explore the narrow alleys, ancient monasteries, and white-washed houses of the last forbidden kingdom. Lo-Manthang still retains its medieval charm, offering a glimpse into Tibetan-influenced Mustang culture.
Today, we spend the day exploring Lo-Manthang and Chhosar. We visit the Royal Palace, which was once home to the Mustang King, and explore ancient monasteries such as Thupchen and Jampa Lhakhang. Later, we take a short drive to Chhosar, where we explore the Jhong Sky Caves, a fascinating complex of ancient caves believed to be over 2,500 years old. These caves were used for meditation and burial rituals. The day is filled with cultural and historical experiences, giving us deep insights into the rich heritage of Upper Mustang.
After an incredible experience in Lo-Manthang, we retrace our journey back to Jomsom. The drive takes us through the dramatic landscapes of Upper Mustang, with its barren hills, deep gorges, and unique rock formations. We pass through familiar villages like Ghami, Syangboche, and Kagbeni before reaching Jomsom, the administrative center of Mustang. In the evening, we celebrate the successful journey with a warm dinner at a local teahouse.
Early in the morning, we take a short but scenic 20-minute flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. The flight offers stunning aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival in Pokhara, we check into the hotel and enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour. We visit Davis Falls, the mystical Gupteshwor Cave, the International Mountain Museum, and enjoy boating on Phewa Lake with reflections of Mt. Machhapuchhre. The rest of the evening is free for relaxation.
After an unforgettable journey through the mystical landscapes of Upper Mustang, it’s time to return to Kathmandu. You can overland drive, which takes around 6–7 hours through Nepal’s diverse terrain. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, the rest of the day is free for you to relax, explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, or shop for souvenirs. In the evening, Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition will host a special cultural farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant. Enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine accompanied by a lively cultural dance performance, making for a perfect end to this extraordinary adventure in the hidden kingdom of Upper Mustang.
On the final day, venture to Patan Durbar Square, an architectural masterpiece showcasing Newari craftsmanship. Visit the Krishna Mandir, a stunning stone temple, and explore the Patan Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of Hindu and Buddhist artifacts.
Later, drive to Bhaktapur, a medieval city known for its well-preserved traditions and artistic heritage. Walk through the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, admire the grand Nyatapola Temple, and witness local artisans crafting pottery and intricate woodwork. The city's timeless charm and cultural richness make it a highlight of the tour.
After exploring Bhaktapur, return to Kathmandu and transfer to the airport for departure, carrying unforgettable memories of Nepal’s vibrant history and spiritual essence.
After an unforgettable journey to Upper Mustang, it’s time to say goodbye to Nepal. Depending on your flight schedule, our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. We hope you had an incredible experience with Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition, and we look forward to welcoming you back for more Himalayan adventures!
Upper Mustang is one of Nepal’s most fascinating and restricted regions, often referred to as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom.” It offers a rare glimpse into an ancient Tibetan-influenced culture, untouched landscapes, and a desert-like Himalayan terrain that contrasts sharply with Nepal’s greener regions. The area was closed to foreign travelers until 1992, which has helped preserve its traditions, monasteries, and centuries-old cave dwellings. The walled city of Lo-Manthang, with its royal palace and ancient monasteries, is a highlight of the region.
Unlike other trekking regions in Nepal, Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, meaning it remains dry and accessible even during the monsoon season. This unique geographical setting creates striking red cliffs, deep gorges, and colorful rock formations, making it a paradise for photographers and adventure seekers. The rich Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient cave monasteries, and traditional festivals like Tiji Festival further add to its cultural significance.
Yes, since Upper Mustang is a restricted area, all foreign travelers must obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) issued by the Government of Nepal. The cost of this permit is USD 500 per person for the first 10 days and USD 50 per day for each additional day. Additionally, visitors need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs NPR 3,000 (around USD 25). These permits are arranged by Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition as part of the package, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Due to the restricted nature of the region, solo travelers are not allowed to enter Upper Mustang. A minimum of two travelers, along with a registered trekking agency and a licensed guide, is required to obtain the permit.
The Upper Mustang Jeep Ride Tour is a moderate-level adventure and is much easier than trekking since most of the journey is done in a 4WD Jeep. It is suitable for all age groups, including families and senior travelers, as there is no need for extensive walking. However, some challenges include rough and bumpy roads, high-altitude terrain, and long driving hours.
One of the main concerns is altitude sickness, as the tour reaches elevations above 3,800m at places like Muktinath and Lo-Manthang. Though the itinerary is designed for gradual acclimatization, travelers should stay hydrated and listen to their bodies. Since the roads in Mustang are unpaved and dusty, some discomfort from the bumpy ride is expected.
Overall, with proper preparation, warm clothing, and an adventurous spirit, this Jeep tour is a thrilling and comfortable way to explore the hidden kingdom of Mustang.
The best time for the Upper Mustang Jeep Ride Tour is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and pleasant temperatures, ensuring the best visibility of the Himalayas and Mustang’s unique landscape.
Unlike most trekking regions in Nepal, Upper Mustang is also accessible during the monsoon season (June to August) since it lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas. This makes it one of the few destinations in Nepal where travelers can visit year-round. Many visitors come during May to experience the Tiji Festival, a vibrant Buddhist celebration with traditional masked dances in Lo-Manthang.
Winter (December to February) is the least recommended time to visit, as temperatures drop significantly, and many lodges in Upper Mustang close for the season. If traveling in winter, extra preparation for cold conditions is necessary.
Accommodation during the Upper Mustang Jeep Ride Tour consists of comfortable hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara and tea houses or lodges in Mustang. The tea houses in Mustang are simple but cozy, offering basic twin-sharing rooms with warm blankets. In Lo-Manthang and Kagbeni, some tea houses offer attached bathrooms, but in more remote areas, shared toilets are common.
Food options include traditional Nepali meals, Tibetan cuisine, and some Western dishes. Typical meals include Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), Tibetan bread, momos (dumplings), noodle soups, and fried rice. Tea, coffee, and soft drinks are available, but bottled water and alcohol can be expensive due to the remoteness of the region. It’s recommended to carry a reusable water bottle with a purification system to reduce costs and plastic waste.
Yes, since the journey reaches high altitudes above 3,800m, there is a risk of altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness – AMS). However, the Jeep ride allows for a gradual ascent, reducing the chances of severe symptoms. Our itinerary includes acclimatization stops to help the body adjust.
Common symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. To prevent AMS, travelers should:
Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water
Avoid alcohol and smoking during the journey
Eat light, high-energy meals
Take it slow and allow time for acclimatization
Carry altitude sickness medication (Diamox) if needed
If severe symptoms occur, immediate descent or medical attention may be required. Our experienced guides are trained in handling altitude-related issues, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.
Packing properly is essential for a comfortable journey. Here are some must-have items:
Clothing: Warm layers, a windproof & waterproof jacket, thermal wear, gloves, and a hat
Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or comfortable trekking shoes
Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, and a buff/scarf to protect from dust
Gear: Sleeping bag (optional), trekking poles, and a headlamp
Health & Safety: First aid kit, personal medications, and water purification tablets
Electronics: Power bank, camera, and extra batteries (electricity is limited in Mustang)
Since the roads are dusty, wearing a face mask or buff can help with comfort during the drive.
Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition is a trusted and experienced travel company specializing in Mustang and Himalayan adventures. Here’s why we are the best choice:
Expert Guides & Drivers: Our knowledgeable guides ensure a safe and enriching journey, providing deep insights into Mustang’s culture and history.
Comfortable 4WD Jeeps: Our well-maintained vehicles handle Mustang’s rough roads smoothly, ensuring a comfortable ride.
Hassle-Free Permit Arrangements: We take care of all necessary permits, making the process seamless.
Flexible & Personalized Itinerary: We offer customized tours to match your interests and schedule.
Best Value for Money: Our packages provide top-quality service at a competitive price, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
With our commitment to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction, we guarantee an adventure of a lifetime in the mystical land of Upper Mustang!
