The “Lobas” are known as the people of Upper Mustang, primarily of Tibetan origin. Their lifestyle has been deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism and traditional practices
Trip Duration
14 Days
Trip Grade
Modorade
Transportation
Flight, car, jeep, private bus
Max. Altitude
4,890m (16,040 ft)
Departure From
Kathmandlu
Destination
Nepal
Meals
Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner and tea/coffee
Accomodation
Hotel
Season
September to December and March to May
Trip overview
Upper Mustang Lo manghang 15 days trek
Upper Mustang trek is most popular area in the Nepal. The Home Ministry of Nepal announced to open of the restricted areas in October 1991. There is also strict control in obtaining a special permit from the Department of immigration to protect their traditions from outside influence as well as to protect their environment. The region of the Tibetan influence Kaligandaki from the Tibetan border south to kalighadaki is generally referred to as “Lo-Manthang,
Upper Mustang trekking area is a sensational journey beyond the Himalayas to one of the most remote kingdoms on earth. Hidden behind the Himalayan giants of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, It is truly the Forbidden Kingdom. Once the Upper Mustang trek an independent kingdom, this land of Tibetan Buddhism was only opened to outsiders in 1992. With its ancient monasteries, palaces, caves, and ruins of old forts, Mustang is rich in art and history. This is perhaps the only region where Tibetan culture and religion have survived over the centuries mostly untouched by time and modern colonization. This trek follows the ancient trade route, passing through historic towns and eventually ending at the capital city of Lo Manthang. Region and requires a permit fee of US$ 500 per person for 10 days.
People & Lifestyle
Occupation: Agriculture and animal husbandry (yaks, sheep, and goats) are the primary means of livelihood. Housing: Traditional mud-brick houses with flat roofs, often painted white and red, reflecting Tibetan architecture. Clothing: Men wear long woolen robes (chubas), while women wear colorful aprons over their dresses.
Religion & Monasteries
Tibetan Buddhism is the dominant religion in Upper Mustang. Many ancient monasteries (gompas), chortens, and prayer wheels reflect the deep spiritual connection of the locals.
Famous Monasteries:
Thubchen Monastery (Lo Manthang) – 15th-century monastery with vibrant murals. Jampa Monastery (Lo Manthang) – The oldest monastery, dedicated to Maitreya Buddha. Ghar Gompa – An 8th-century monastery, associated with Guru Rinpoche.
Festivals
Upper Mustang is known for its vibrant and sacred festivals:-
Tiji Festival (May) – A three-day masked dance festival symbolizing the victory of good over evil. It attracts monks, locals, and international visitors. Losar (Tibetan New Year, February-March) – Celebrated with prayers, feasts, and traditional dances. Saga Dawa – A religious festival honoring the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha.
Popular Places to Visit
Lo Manthang – The walled city with royal palaces, monasteries, and ancient culture. Chhoser Caves – Mysterious sky caves used for meditation and ancient burials.
Damodar Kunda – Sacred Lake in Upper Mustang
Damodar Kunda is a sacred lake located in the remote Upper Mustang region of Nepal, at an altitude of 4,890 meters. Furthermore, the site’s spiritual significance is enhanced by its association with ancient myths and religious practices. In addition, many devotees undertake arduous journeys to pay homage at the sacred temples and monasteries in the region. Consequently, the presence of the revered Shaligram stones attracts pilgrims and scholars alike, deepening the cultural and religious appeal of this sacred destination.
Religious Significance
Hinduism: According to the Puranas (Hindu scriptures), Lord Krishna declared that bathing in Damodar Kunda would cleanse one of all sins. Many Hindu pilgrims visit the lake for purification rituals.
Buddhism: Tibetan Buddhists consider it a holy site, as it lies near several ancient monasteries and sacred caves. Shaligram Fossils: These are found in and around the lake and are worshipped as a representation of Lord Vishnu.
How to Visit Damodar Kunda?
Trekking Expedition: A challenging high-altitude trek (10-14 days from Jomsom). Helicopter Tour: Quick access for pilgrims and travelers with limited time.
Beautiful place
Ghar Gompa – One of Nepal’s oldest monasteries, associated with Guru Rinpoche Kagbeni – A historic village at the gateway to Upper Mustang. Dhakmar – A scenic village famous for its red cliffs. Damodar kunda-holi lake in the upper Mustang area. Muktinath Temple – A sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Atmosphere & Landscape
Climate: Semi-arid (similar to Tibet), with little rainfall due to the rain shadow effect. Scenery: Barren landscapes, deep gorges, colorful cliffs, and dramatic rock formations. Altitude: Ranges from 2,800m to 4,200m. Best Time to Visit: March to November (avoiding the coldest winter months).
Scenery & Climate-Landscape: Surrounded by rugged mountains, barren hills, and breathtaking Himalayan views.
Climate: Spring & Autumn (Best time to visit) – Clear skies, moderate weather. Winter (December-February) – Extremely cold, snowfall makes it inaccessible. Monsoon (July-August) – Dry due to Mustang’s rain shadow, but can be windy.
Note:-
“For Upper Mustang, a special trekking permit ($500 per person for 10 days) is required.. Restricted area regulations apply, and trekkers must travel with a registered guide. who seek an authentic experience. Moreover, its well-preserved monasteries, traditional mud-brick houses, and centuries-old murals provide a glimpse into a bygone era. In addition, the region’s restricted access has helped maintain its unique heritage, allowing visitors to witness Tibetan Buddhist traditions that have remained largely unchanged for generations. Consequently, Lo Manthang continues to captivate travelers, historians, and spiritual seekers alike.
Annapurna Region Side Routes:
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek: A popular side route for Annapurna, this trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. It’s a short, accessible trek perfect for those with limited time.
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) via Ghandruk: The Annapurna Base Camp trek is often done through a route starting from Nayapul, but an alternative route from Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village, provides a more cultural and scenic experience.
Jomsom to Muktinath: While Jomsom is a popular starting point for Upper Mustang, trekking from Jomsom to Muktinath is a great side route that can be combined with other Annapurna treks.
Annapurna Circuit – Lower Route: The traditional Annapurna Circuit is often done through the Thorong La Pass, but a side route starting from Pokhara and taking a lower route can be a quieter and more relaxed option for those interested in a less strenuous trek.
Upper Mustang Side Routes:
Lo Manthang to Chhoser: A lesser-known route connecting the walled city of Lo Manthang to the village of Chhoser. It offers a deeper exploration of Mustang’s culture and isolated monasteries.
Tiji Festival Trek: For trekkers interested in cultural events, trekking in Upper Mustang during the Tiji Festival is a great side route. This trek coincides with the festival held in Lo Manthang and gives a deep insight into the region’s unique traditions.
Dhakmar to Ghemi: A side trek that passes through the beautiful and remote village of Dhakmar, which is known for its red cliffs and Tibetan architecture. Continuing to Ghemi takes you through a less-traveled path.
Luri Monastery Trek: This trek involves hiking from Lo Manthang to the Luri Monastery, situated in a cave on the side of a cliff. It’s an exceptional spiritual and cultural journey.
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu Tribhuban international ariport (1,300m/4,264ft): then pick you up and take a short drive from the airport to the hotel check in the hotel and rest for few hrs then we meet again with guide and barging about the trek what we need the equipment for then trek and what time we live from Kathmandu details.
From Kathmandu to Pokhara there are two ways to reach. One is by bus, which are 200 K.M. far from Kathmandu by bus is takes approximately about 6 ½ hours by tourist bus. The road mostly follows the We take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. which place is the beautiful lake and city and also catch great views of the Mountain from the right side the windo seat of our airplane. After landing in the Pokhara airport than after transfer to the hotel in the lake side area. After that Check in the hotel, rest for some time than visit included the Fewa lake Bahari temple etc. stay over night the hotel at Pokhara.
Fly to Jomsom, the district headquarters of Mustang and start trek to Kagbeni, and the starting point of the “Upper Mustang”. Over night camping at Kagbeni.
There is a trail up the bank of the Kaligandaki that climbing over many ridges as over many ridges as it heads north and reaches Tangbe village. The town a labyrinth of narrow alleys amongst whitewashed houses fields of the valley. Beyond Tangbe we reach chhusang dominates the southern skyline at kagbeni continues to loom massive at the foot of the valley. Beyond Tangbe we reach Chhusang village about 1 ½ hrs trek, and cross the river from there and continue north climbing up the trail to a huge red chunk of conglomerate that has fallen from the cliff above, forming a tunnel through which the Kaligandaki follows. The trek now leaves the Kali Gandaki Valley and climbs steeply up a rocky gully to chele at 3030 Mt. The culture changes from the Mustangi Culture the Tibetan culture of Lo from here.
The climb continues along steep, treeless, waterless terrain, along the side of the speculator steep canyon to pass and cairn to a pass and cairn of rock at 3540Mt.Then the trail makes a long gradual descent to some chorines on a ridge, then descend further on a pleasant trail to samar. The Annapurna , still dominated by Nilgiri, is visible far to the south. Climb above samar to a ridge, then descend into a large gorge and the trail goes into another valley field, crosses a stream and climbs up to bridge at 3800 Mt. and descend to Geling
From Geling, the trail climbs gently to the interesting pass on your trek NYI LA and descend below the blue, Grey and red cliffs across the valley to a steel bridge across the Tangmar Chu (River ), Then climbs past what so perhaps the longest and most spectacular stretch and main wall in Nepal. Climbing over another pass at 3600m, The route makes a long gentle descent to charang. The huge five-story white Dzong and red Gompa are an interesting visit to observe collections of statues and Thakas as well as many large paintings of seated Buddha’s.
The Trail descends about 100meters down from Charang, crosses the charang – Chu and climbs steeply up a rocky trail to a climb on a ridge and continues to climb, finally from a ridge at 3850meter there is a view of the walled city of LO. After a short descent, cross a stream then climb up in to the plateau of Lo- Manthang
There are four major places and several other places like the Tall champa lakhang “God house”, The red thugchen Gompa, Chyodi Gompa and the Entrance Hall which are the main attraction of this town. An another attraction is the four -story building of Raja’s palace as well as the surrounding panoramic views of the Himalayas . Having seen one, you are excited to see the others.
Besides LO Manthang there are two other valleys worth visiting. The western valley Thingkhar, The sight of Raja’s summer palace, Kimling and phuwa as well as the Gompa of Nangyals ” The monastery of victory” is the newest and most active Gompa in LO. The eastern valley contains chosar, the site of a High school, Garphu and Nyphu Gompa and is the main trading route to Lhasa .
This is an opportunity to visit two other villages on your return trek. The trail climbs steadily to the pass make by a cairn, offering a last glimpse of LO Manthang. The trail contours past two small ridges and valleys and across a ridge at 4070meter then descends across to the south through two more valley meadows and a stream. The trail then makes a long rocky descent to Gekar. LO Gekar Gompa is older then samye Gompa in Tibet and one of the oldest Gompa in Nepal . Then crosses a ridge after a little climbing and drops down steeply to Thamar village. The trail descends along the side of the stone walls and fields of extensive villages, then climbs to a ridge. it is a short descent to Ghami.
From Ghimi climb to NYI LA and descend to Samar through the same route.
Return trek to Kagbani
Return trek to Jomsom
Fly to pokhara lakeside village site, “Front row center” to one of the most beautiful Himalayan panoramas in the world. The Annapurna and famous “Fishtail” Mountain peak of Machapuchhare tower over the tropical setting of pokhara and you spend there will be the scenic highlight of your trip. You’re free in Pokhara valley also called ” Magic Land ” or Dreamland” of Nepal , to explore the various interesting place like a boating in fewa Lake over looking of Annapurna Range , David falls, Mahendra cave and some Temples . Evening you are free to explore the colorful town/N in Pokhara.
fter breakfast you’re return to Kathmandu by road. After arrive in Kathmandu You’re free to shop and pike up some last minute souvenirs, rest and visit the shop etc. O/N at Kathmandu
Included
- Arruval departure trensfear.
- Special restricted area permits for Upper Mustang and National park permit.
- Two night hotel in Kathmandu with B/B plan (Bed and Breakfast)
- Two night hotel in Pokhara with B/B plan (Bed and Breakfast.
- Kathmandu-Pokhara -Jomsom-Pokhara flight tickets (For Guest and Guide
- Kathmandu-Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara-Kathmandu bus transport for portar
- Best available lodges/tea houses during the trek
- All lodging and foods/meals during the trek
- Domestic flights and all taxes
- Guide and porter:- food, Salary, Accommodation during the trek and insurance
- Down Jackets, sleeping bags during the trek and sleeping bag and down jackets are returnable after the trek.
- Upper mustang restricted area permit fee $500 per person for 10 days time durations
- Entire administration and Local taxes
Not Included
- Kathmandu and Pokhara food.
- Nepal Visa Fees (you should bring accurate 40 USD cash and two passport size pictures)
- Personal expenses (Shopping, Laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, mineral water or boiled water, Phone calls, shower etc)
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival or late departure, early come back from trek (due to any case) than the fixed itinerary
- International fare/arrival taxes/departure taxes from your country to Kathmandu and from Kathmandu to your own destination
- Trip and rescue insurance
- Tips for guides and porters/ Donations
- Note: – This trek only minimum 2 Pax not aloud single people.
Useful Info
Location & Accessibility
Region: Upper Mustang, near the Tibetan border
Altitude: 4,890m (16,040 ft)
Coordinates: 29°14′N 83°46′E
2. Permits & Entry Requirements
✅ Special Restricted Area Permit (Upper Mustang): $500 per person (valid for 10 days)
✅ Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 (~$25) for foreigners
✅ Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card: Requires
