Trip highlights of Upper Mustang Luxury Trek.

Pokhara to Jomsom offers breathtaking aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Helicopter options are often available for added luxury and convenience.
The region resembles the Tibetan Plateau, with wind-eroded cliffs, barren hills, and deep canyons.
The walled capital of the ancient Mustang Kingdom is in Lomanthang.
Visit centuries-old monasteries (Thubchen, Jampa, and Ghar Gompa).
Witness traditional Tibetan-influenced customs, festivals, and local life in remote villages.
Stay in luxury lodges and many more boutique hotels (like Royal Mustang Resort, Lo Manthang Boutique Lodges, etc.).
Enjoy private rooms, hot showers, gourmet meals, and top-tier service—rare in such remote areas.
Travel parts of the route like the locals—on horseback, especially near Lo Manthang.
Explore the walled city, visit the King’s Palace, and engage with local Amchis (Tibetan doctors).
Optional day hikes to Chhoser Cave dwellings and Garphu Monastery, and the China border.
Some luxury packages include yoga, spa treatments, and wellness experiences amidst the mountains. It is up to the clients.
Luxury itineraries often include jeep support or a helicopter return, reducing the need for strenuous trekking.
Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–November) are ideal for weather and views.
The Tiji Festival in May is a cultural highlight worth timing your trek around.

Overview

The Upper Mustang Luxury Trek with Unique Sherpa Trek & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. is more than just a Himalayan adventure; it’s a culturally rich, spiritually enlightening, and supremely comfortable journey into the once-forbidden Kingdom of Lo Manthang. Nestled in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Upper Mustang offers an arid, mystical landscape unlike any other in Nepal, with deep canyons, red-walled monasteries, ancient cave dwellings, and the walled city of Lo Manthang — all within a region that still echoes the lifestyle of old Tibet.

While traditional treks in Upper Mustang involve long walking days and rustic lodges, Unique Sherpa Trek & Expedition introduces a luxury version that preserves the raw authenticity of the region while enhancing comfort, service, and convenience. This luxury trek is ideal for those who seek meaningful encounters with ancient cultures and remote landscapes but prefer refined accommodations, private guides, and curated experiences throughout the journey.

Why Choose a Luxury Trek to Upper Mustang?

Upper Mustang was opened to foreigners only in 1992, and it still retains much of its ancient charm due to its restricted access and unique location. The region, once an independent kingdom closely tied to Tibetan culture, boasts a treasure trove of historic and spiritual sites, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and colorful festivals like Tiji, celebrated with dances and rituals in Lo Manthang. Choosing a luxury trek to Upper Mustang means not only avoiding the hardships of camping and basic teahouses but also enriching your overall experience with comfortable boutique lodges and heritage-inspired accommodation with private facilities. Luxury transportation options include scenic helicopter transfers or four-wheel-drive access in strategic parts of the trail. Gourmet meals with both Nepali and international options, hygienically prepared. Private, experienced guides and support teams who prioritize your safety, comfort, and cultural immersion. Customizable itinerary, tailored to your pace and interests, from photography to cultural research.

History of the Upper Mustang Region

The Mustang region, located in northwestern Nepal, has a rich and layered history that stretches back over a thousand years. It is often referred to as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom" due to its long period of isolation and restricted access to outsiders. Mustang, especially Upper Mustang, is deeply rooted in Tibetan culture, religion, and politics, making it one of the most culturally preserved regions in the Himalayas.

Ancient History and Early Settlements

Archaeological evidence and ancient cave dwellings suggest that the Mustang region was inhabited as early as the Bronze Age. The area served as an important part of the salt trade route between Tibet and India, allowing the exchange of salt, wool, and grain. The Upper Mustang valley, carved by the Kali Gandaki River, became a strategic and cultural corridor between the Tibetan Plateau and the rest of Nepal.

The Kingdom of Lo (Founded in the 14th Century)

In the early 1300s, Ame Pal, a warrior from western Tibet, founded the Kingdom of Lo and established Lo Manthang as the capital. The Kingdom of Lo maintained close political, cultural, and religious ties with Tibet and followed the Sakyapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Lo Manthang was built as a walled city, surrounded by fortress-like ramparts and home to royal palaces, monasteries, and nobles.

Religious and Cultural Development

Mustang became a center for Tibetan Buddhism, with the construction of significant monasteries such as:

Thubchen Gompa
Jampa Lhakhang
Ghar Gompa (linked to Guru Rinpoche)

The region preserved ancient manuscripts, Buddhist art, and ritual practices that are now lost in many parts of Tibet due to political changes.

Isolation and Restricted Access (20th Century)

After the fall of Tibet in the 1950s, Mustang became a base for Tibetan resistance fighters (Khampas), secretly supported by the CIA, who launched attacks on Chinese forces in Tibet. Due to security concerns, the Nepalese government restricted access to Upper Mustang, and it remained closed to foreigners until 1992. This isolation helped Mustang preserve its traditional lifestyle, language, and architecture, almost untouched by modern influence.

The history of Mustang is a unique blend of ancient civilization, Tibetan influence, Buddhist heritage, royal legacy, and strategic geography. From salt traders and warrior kings to monks and resistance fighters, Mustang has stood at the crossroads of the Himalayas.

Short Itinerary for Upper Mustang Luxury Trek

Day 1: Arrival in the international airport Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593 ft)

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparation. (1,400m/4,593 ft)

Day 3: Fly to Pokhara (827m/2,713 ft) – Relax at a Resort

Day 4: Fly to Jomsom (2,720m/8,923 ft), drive to Kagbeni (2,810m/9,219 ft), 45-minute drive.

Day 5: Trek to Chele (3,050m/10,007 ft) – 5 hours.

Day 6: Trek to Syangboche (3,800m/12,467 ft) – 6 hours.

Day 7: Trek to Ghami (3,520m/11,548 ft) – 5 hours

Day 8: Trek to Charang (3,570m/11,712 ft) – 4 hours.

Day 9: Trek to Lo Manthang (3,840m/12,598 ft) – 5 hours.

Day 10: Explore Lo Manthang – Chhoser Caves or Tiji Festival (Seasonal)

Day 11: Drive or Trek to Dhakmar (3,820m/12,533 ft) – 6 hours

Day 12: Trek to Chhuksang (2,980m/9,777 ft) – 6 hours

Day 13: Drive to Jomsom, (2,720m / 8,923 ft) – 3 hours.

Day 14: Fly to Pokhara.

Day 15: Fly to Kathmandu.

Day 16: Final departure.

Day to Day Itinerary Expand/Collapse All

Day 1 : Arrival in international airport Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593 ft)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be welcomed by Unique Sherpa’s airport representative and transferred to a luxury hotel such as the 5* Hotel. In the evening, enjoy a Nepali welcome dinner with cultural performances and a trek briefing.

Day 2 : Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparation. (1,400m/4,593 ft)

After a luxury breakfast, embark on a guided city tour to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Pashupatinath Temple. Return to your hotel for a detailed trek briefing and gear check by the team.

Day 3 : Fly to Pokhara (827m/2,713 ft) – Relax at a Resort

Enjoy a scenic 25-minute flight to Pokhara. Check in to a lakeside luxury resort such as the Pavilions Himalayas or Temple Tree Resort. Relax with spa treatments or boat on Phewa Lake.

Day 4 : Fly to Jomsom (2,720m/8,923 ft) Drive to Kagbeni (2,810m/9,219 ft) 45 minute drive.

Board an early morning flight over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges to Jomsom. Meet your trekking team and drive in a private 4WD to Kagbeni. Stay at a luxury lodge with panoramic views. Explore the village’s unique blend of Tibetan and Thakali culture.

Day 5 : Trek to Chele (3,050m/10,007 ft) – 5 hours.

After breakfast, begin trekking alongside the Kali Gandaki River, passing through medieval villages and barren landscapes. Enjoy a slow-paced trek with photo breaks. Arrive in Chele and relax at a premium eco-lodge with private rooms and traditional design.

Day 6 : Trek to Syangboche (3,800m/12,467 ft) – 6 hours.

Trek past spectacular red cliffs and sky caves as you ascend through Samar and Bhena. Stop for a hot lunch prepared by the support team. Arrive at Syangboche and stay in a premium lodge or a well-equipped luxury camp with warm hospitality.

Day 7 : Trek to Ghami (3,520m/11,548 ft) – 5 hours

Descend into a dramatic canyon and cross the longest mani wall in Mustang. Visit old chortens and painted prayer stones. At Ghami, enjoy gourmet meals in a heritage-style guesthouse with Tibetan flair.

Day 8 : Trek to Charang (3,570m/11,712 ft) – 4 hours.

Walk through one of Mustang’s most scenic valleys, surrounded by ochre cliffs and ancient ruins. In Charang, visit the 15th-century monastery and royal palace. Overnight at a refined lodge featuring traditional architecture.

Day 9 : Trek to Lo Manthang (3,840m/12,598 ft) – 5 hours.

The trail leads to Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Mustang. Enter the gates of the fortified city and check into the region’s best boutique lodge with private courtyards and stunning mountain views. Explore the narrow alleys and royal palace in the afternoon.

Day 10 : Explore Lo Manthang – Chhoser Caves or Tiji Festival (Seasonal)

Spend the day visiting the Jampa, Thubchen, and Chode monasteries, and ride horses or drive to Chhoser to explore the 5-story Jhong Caves, believed to be over 2,500 years old. Alternatively, attend the Tiji Festival if traveling in May. Enjoy evening fireside tea and cultural exchanges.

Day 11 : Drive or Trek to Dhakmar (3,820m/12,533 ft) – 6 hours

For a change of pace, return via Dhakmar, known for its red cliffs and ancient cave dwellings. Overnight in a luxurious tented camp or lodge with scenic surroundings.

Day 12 : Trek to Chhuksang (2,980m/9,777 ft) – 6 hours

Trek back through unique geological formations, yak pastures, and Tibetan settlements. Stop at local tea houses for refreshments. Arrive at Chhuksang for your final night in Mustang, indulging in a hot shower and a locally inspired farewell dinner.

Day 13 : Drive to Jomsom, (2,720m / 8,923 ft) – 3 hours.

Return to Jomsom by private jeep approximatly 2/3 hours only to the jomsom and relax at luxury hotel at jomsom.re-comform your ticket to pokhara for tomorrow early morning.

Day 14 : Fly to pokhara.

During sightseeing time in Pokhara, you can enjoy a perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and peaceful relaxation—especially suited for guests on a luxury trek like Upper Mustang with Unique Sherpa Trek & Expedition. Below is a carefully curated list of the best things to do in Pokhara, whether you have half a day or a full day to explore before or after your trek.

Top Things to Do in Pokhara During Sightseeing Time;

1. Boating on Phewa Lake 2. Visit the World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa)

3. Davis Falls and Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave 4. Bindhyabasini Temple

5. International Mountain Museum 6. Adventure Activities (Optional)

7. Spa, Massage & Wellness at Luxury Resorts 8. Lakeside Street Walk & Boutique Shopping

9. Sunrise at Sarangkot 10. Tibetan Refugee Settlement Visit

Day 15 : Fly to kathmandu.

After breakfast, take a scenic flight back to Kathmandu. Depending on your flight schedule, you may enjoy some last-minute shopping or a farewell dinner including cultural dance.

Day 16 : Final departure.

Farewell by the trek/tour operator or assistance with check-out and luggage than in hotel breakfast on the last day in nepal ofter that our vehicle is waiting you outside to the airport transfer to the international terminal depand your flight shedule.

What Is Included ?

Pick-up from the airport and transportation to the hotel.
Luxury accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara (3–5 star hotels).
Best-available luxury lodges or guesthouses during the trek.
Domestic flight tickets (Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu) and airport departure taxes.
Scenic round-trip domestic flights (Pokhara–Jomsom–Pokhara).
Private vehicle transportation for all airport and trek transfers.
Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (USD 500).
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System).
Three fresh meals per day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
Unlimited tea, coffee, and purified drinking water during the trek.
Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu.
Experienced licensed trekking guide (English-speaking).
Porters to carry luggage (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
Assistant guide for groups of 4 or more.
All staff insurance, wages, food, and accommodation.
Company T-shirt and Cap provide comfort.
Down jacket and sleeping bag (provided if needed).
Trekking duffel bag and route map.
Oximeter for daily altitude health monitoring.
First Aid Kit with basic high-altitude medicine.
Emergency evacuation arrangement support (helicopter extra if needed).
Wi-Fi or mobile network access where available on the trail.
24/7 support from Unique Sherpa Trek’s head office.
Appreciation Certificate after the successful trek by Unique Sherpa Trek & Expedition.
Cultural sightseeing tour in Kathmandu (optional or on request).

What Is Excluded?

International airfare to and from Nepal.
Nepal entry visa fee (available on arrival at Kathmandu airport).
Travel insurance (must include emergency evacuation coverage).
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except welcome/farewell dinner).
Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, snacks, internet, etc.).
Alcoholic drinks and soft beverages during the trek.
Tips and gratuities for guide, porter, and staff (customary but not mandatory).
Extra night accommodation in case of early arrival, late departure, or flight delays.
Optional helicopter charter (available upon request at an additional cost).
Additional activities or sightseeing not mentioned in the itinerary.
Personal trekking gear (clothing, boots, poles, backpack, etc.).
Cost due to unforeseen circumstances (weather delays, landslides, strikes, etc.).
Medical treatment and medication (if required during the trek).

NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. It is not will be refundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.

Route Map

IMAGE GALLERY

FAQs

At Unique Sherpa Trek & Expedition, our Upper Mustang Luxury Trek blends ancient Tibetan culture with exclusive comfort. You’ll enjoy premium accommodations, personalized service, high-altitude support, and luxury transportation — all while exploring one of Nepal’s most restricted and mystic Himalayan regions.

The ideal months are March to November. Since Upper Mustang lies in a rain shadow, it's perfect even during the monsoon (June to August), making it one of the few Himalayan treks available year-round.

Yes! We offer optional helicopter transfers from Pokhara or Jomsom to Lo-Manthang or other destinations for a scenic and time-saving journey, especially for clients with limited time or those seeking a more luxurious experience.

We provide the best available luxury lodges and boutique hotels in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and throughout the Mustang region. Expect attached bathrooms, clean bedding, private rooms, and authentic Mustang hospitality at every stop.

Absolutely. We offer full-board gourmet meals during the trek — including hygienic, organic, and freshly prepared dishes. You can enjoy both local Tibetan-Mustang cuisine and continental options, catered to your dietary needs.

Yes. As part of our luxury service, every client or private group receives a professional, English-speaking guide, and dedicated porters. Your comfort, safety, and satisfaction are our priorities.

Yes. Upper Mustang is a restricted region. We will arrange:

Restricted Area Permit (USD 500 per person for 10 days)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
All documentation is handled by Unique Sherpa Trek on your behalf.

Definitely! Our luxury itinerary is designed with flexibility, acclimatization, and comfort in mind. With jeep support, personal staff, and optional helicopter transfers, the trek is suitable for senior adventurers and families with children (10+ years old).

Walled Kingdom of Lo-Manthang
Cave Monasteries of Chhoser
Ancient Sky Caves of Mustang
Luxury Jeep ride options from Jomsom
Tiji Festival (seasonal)
Premium mountain vistas and cultural immersion

✔ 4/5-star hotel stays in Kathmandu & Pokhara
✔ Private vehicle transfers
✔ Domestic flights (Pokhara-Jomsom round trip or helicopter options)
✔ All meals during the trek
✔ Personal trekking guide and porter
✔ All permits and paperwork
✔ Daily fresh fruits/snacks
✔ Oximeter monitoring and first-aid support
✔ Sustainable travel practices
✔ Certificate of Achievement from Unique Sherpa Trek

We provide a pre-departure checklist with necessary gear, but essentials include:

Warm down jacket & layers
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Hiking boots
Personal medication
Travel insurance (mandatory)

🏔 Over 20 years of Himalayan trekking excellence
🥇 Certified, multilingual Sherpa guides
🛎 Tailored luxury and comfort
💼 Trusted by global travelers & corporate groups
💬 24/7 personal support throughout your journey
🌱 Commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism

Reach out to our expert luxury trek coordinators:
📧 info@uniquesherpatrek.com
🌐 www.uniquesherpatrek.com
📞 +977-9862854770 (WhatsApp/Viber Available)

Additional Information

The Upper Mustang Luxury Trek with Unique Sherpa Trek & Expedition offers a rare and privileged opportunity to explore the once-forbidden kingdom of Mustang in comfort and style. This journey goes beyond ordinary trekking, delivering authentic cultural encounters, breathtaking Himalayan vistas, and historical exploration while ensuring high-end accommodation, experienced staff, and exceptional logistics for a luxurious trekking experience.

Geography and Elevation

Upper Mustang is located in the rain-shadow region of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs, bordering Tibet to the north. It lies in Mustang District, in the north-central part of Nepal, and was once an independent Tibetan kingdom known as Lo. The region is geologically and culturally more aligned with the Tibetan Plateau than with the rest of Nepal.

The elevation of the trek ranges from 2,800 meters (Jomsom) to over 3,900 meters at Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Upper Mustang. Despite these high altitudes, the trek is considered moderate in difficulty because of the gradual ascent and the dry, desert-like conditions that limit extreme cold or heavy snow outside the winter season.

Culture and People

The people of Upper Mustang are ethnically Tibetan Buddhists, and their culture remains remarkably well-preserved due to the region’s historical isolation and strong religious roots. With Unique Sherpa Trek & Expedition’s local connections, trekkers get in-depth exposure to this rich cultural tapestry.

You’ll visit centuries-old monasteries, mani walls, Buddhist chortens, and cave dwellings, some dating back over a thousand years. The region is also famous for the Tiji Festival, a colorful and sacred event celebrated annually with masked dances and rituals. The influence of Tibetan Buddhism is profound, with many monasteries such as Chhoser Cave Monastery, Thubchen Gompa, and Jampa Lhakhang offering deep spiritual and historical insights.

Lo Manthang, the centerpiece of Upper Mustang, is a living museum—a medieval city with mud-brick houses, narrow alleys, and ancient temples that transport visitors back in time.

Atmosphere and Scenery

Unlike the lush green valleys of the Annapurna or Everest regions, Upper Mustang is a high-altitude desert with arid canyons, eroded cliffs, colorful sandstone formations, and windswept plateaus. The stark landscape is punctuated by patches of barley fields and clusters of whitewashed settlements with prayer flags fluttering in the wind.

The sky is usually clear and cobalt blue, and the dry climate makes the trek pleasant during spring and autumn. The atmosphere is serene, spiritual, and mysterious—imbued with centuries of untouched tradition and minimal modern interference.

Trek Distance and Duration

The Upper Mustang luxury trek typically spans 10 to 14 days, covering approximately 125 to 160 kilometers (78 to 100 miles) depending on the route and side excursions. Most itineraries begin with a scenic flight to Jomsom from Pokhara, followed by trekking through Kagbeni, Chele, Syangbochen, Ghami, Tsarang, and finally to Lo Manthang.

The return journey may retrace the same route or take an alternate path via Dhakmar or Yara-Ghara, offering new perspectives and additional exploration.

Why Choose the Luxury Version with Unique Sherpa Trek?

Deluxe lodges and private camps: Stay in upgraded accommodation with comfortable bedding, attached bathrooms (where available), and exceptional service.
Gourmet meals and attentive staff: Well-prepared, hygienic meals with personalized service throughout the trek.
Expert guides and cultural interpreters: Experienced and English-speaking guides, often local to Mustang, who can share in-depth stories and hidden highlights.
Comfort-focused logistics: Transportation, baggage handling, and itinerary customization are all handled smoothly, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey.

In conclusion, the Upper Mustang luxury trek is a journey into a hidden world—a blend of natural beauty, ancient culture, and spiritual legacy—all offered in comfort by Unique Sherpa Trek & Expedition. Whether you're seeking photography, spiritual enrichment, or cultural immersion, this trek delivers an unforgettable Himalayan experience without compromising on comfort.

Equipments

During the trek, you could see many trekkers wearing expensive outdoor fashion equipment, but we recommend you prepare comfortable and durable equipment. Trekking equipment is essential for anyone planning outdoor adventures, whether it's a day hike or a multi-day expedition. Below is a list of names of crucial equipment.

Cloth of trekkers,

Down Jacket: You could rent one in Kathmandu if you don’t have one.

Thermal Baselayer Set: It is your second skin; bring the best quality (2 sets)

Fleece Pullover Hoodie: keeps you warm even if moisture condenses on the inside when it rains.

Lightweight Thermal Tops: It is comfortable when you don’t use a base layer

Waterproof Jacket and paints: recommended for water, rain, and snowproof (in case of bad weather)

Hiking Shorts: At lower altitudes and under the sun, it can be comfortable

Hiking T-Shirt: For lower altitudes

Hiking Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants (no jeans, please)

Gloves: It is recommended to bring two pairs, a light one and a heavyweight water/windproof

Sports Bra for Her: A good sports bra is recommended when you are hiking

Sports underwear: Quick-dry

Woolen Hat: This is handy when it’s getting cold in the evening and morning.

Sunhat: It just protects from the Sun

Microfleece Buff: I recommend bringing two, as it is useful for either low-altitude or higher-altitude

Footwear Gears,

Hiking Boots: Ankle support, waterproof (running shoes are not recommended)

Sandals or Running Shoes: In the mornings and in the evenings in the teahouse (running shoes or even sandals will be fine)

Hiking Socks: Good-quality hiking socks should keep your feet dry and comfortable. Bring enough socks

Inner Socks: You could wear thin inner socks to support your hiking socks.

Trekking gear,

Snow gaiters: in case of bad weather and snowing

Duffle Bag: Waterproof and about 70L. We recommend this only if you are going to use Porter. Unique Sherpa Trek will provide a duffel bag.

Rucksack with Rain Cover: If you plan to carry your stuff during the trek, we recommend you bring a comfortable (back support) 50 to 60L rucksack with rain cover.

Daypack with Rain Cover: Whether you use a porter or not, a day pack is necessary for your trekking trip in Nepal. Recommended daypack size is 25 to 30L with rain cover.

Trekking Poles: It is optional, but if you know how to use them, then they can help your knees and joints.

Sleeping Bag: Recommended at least for -20 DC, Unique Sherpa Trek will be provided at our pre-meeting if you don’t have your own (if you book the trip with us)

Sleeping Bag Liner: If you are planning to rent a sleeping bag, it is strongly recommended to bring your liner

Additional Accessories for Trekkers,

Reusable Water Bottle: Reduce plastic waste by using a reusable water bottle.

Trash Bags: Pack trash bags to collect and dispose of your waste properly.

Phone Charger: Carry a fully charged mobile phone with a portable charger.

Power Bank: A power bank ensures your electronic devices stay charged.

Local SIM Card: Purchase a local SIM card for better connectivity in remote areas.

Cash: Carry enough cash to cover expenses, as ATMs might be scarce on the trekking route.

Map and Compass/GPS: Ensure you have the tools to navigate safely.

Camera and Binoculars: Capture the breathtaking landscapes and spot wildlife with a camera and binoculars.

Head Torch: small torch with spare batteries

Sunglasses: Recommended UV protection to prevent headaches and snow blindness.