Upper Mustang Overland Tour - 12 Days

On your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1350 metres above sea level), you will be received and escorted to the hotel by a representative from Mountain Treks Nepal. The busy streets of Kathmandu offer you an exciting culture and meticulous detail in showcasing the country of Nepal. Everywhere in the city, you can notice the perfect blend of modern amenities with traditional ones.

As the rest of the day is free, you will have sufficient time to acclimatize the body after your entire journey. You can take a short walk around Thamel for those feeling adventurous, which entails visiting local shops, cafes and restaurants. This day initializes the gentle acclimatization to the enchanting rhythm of Nepal. Overnight at Kathmandu.

The second day of the Upper Mustang Overland Tour 12 Days is scheduled for tour preparations and sightseeing activities in Kathmandu. This will be extremely important for the smooth flow of travel through one of the restricted and well-protected areas of Nepal. After getting everything cleared, go for a cultural tour of Kathmandu with an expert guide who knows the history of the city well. 

Swayambhunath, the first stop on your itinerary, is also known as the Monkey Temple. This sits atop a hill from where you have an eagle’s eye view over the Kathmandu Valley. This holy pilgrimage site represents both Hinduism and Buddhism, creating an amalgamation of serenity and all-encompassing views of the city. Its golden spire and rainbow-colored prayer flags are definitely something to behold by any standards. 

Then you can step forward towards the Boudhanath Stupa, which is an extensive and famous Buddhist monument in the world. Another heritage site under UNESCO is the Pashupatinath Temple lying beside the spiritual, holy Bagmati River, which is popular for its incredible architecture and, above all, that very special spiritual significance that it stands for. Enjoy your stay in Kathmandu tonight.

Today, you will drive to the city of Lakes, Pokhara (820m)from the capital city. The drive passes across many serpentine mountain roads with terraced fields and the old village inside, peeking toward a more rural part of Nepal. Also, you will be treated to views of the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges. 

As you reach Pokhara, you can find the reflected images of the Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri mirrored in the waters of Phewa Lake. Also, if you’re planning this kind of trip, Pokhara is a really convenient place to rest before heading into days of touring in the Himalayas. You can either take a boat ride across it or indulge in the extraordinary activity of lakeside living. 

Today is also a little transition, a first glimpse of the contrasting landscapes that make up Nepal: from the city of Kathmandu to the relatively quiet Pokhara, which is surrounded by nature.

You have an early start as you drive from Pokhara to Tatopani (2600m), passing through Beni. This highway then follows the Kali Gandaki River through the grants, valleys, gorges, and hastily flowing waterfalls in the amazing verdurous scenery. The ride here goes through the rural heart of Nepal and gives glimpses into the traditions and life of the people of the region. 

These picturesque landscapes become quite subtle as one nears Tatopani instead of the rugged grandeur of Mustang. These soothing waters provide a good respite after a long day over the road, relaxing the body as well as the mind and preparing for the upcoming tour. 

It is not only about these springs that draw one to Tatopani but also the friendliness and hospitality of its people and the simplicity of mountain life. Here is a small stop that captures the hospitality and warmth extended by the hill communities of Nepal, which will definitely create a memorable experience for anyone visiting. Overnight stay at Tatopani.

You will start early in the morning for the drive to Kagbeni (2900m). The deepest gorge in the world is the Kali Gandaki Gorge, and the route is most inspiring. The towering Annapurna and Dhaulagiri frame ranges and inspires to brim every nook and corner. Kagbeni is the doorway into Upper Mustang and has beautiful, traditional mud-brick houses as well as narrow, winding alleys.

This afternoon includes a short trip to the sacred Muktinath Temple (3800m), where the pilgrim sails on the likes of Hindus and Buddhists. Snow-capped peaks surround its halls, and it houses an eternal flame and 108 water spouts, which symbolize purity and spiritual liberation. It is peaceful enough to invite reflective thought and even spiritual connection. Overnight stay in Kagbeni.

The Syangboche Pass brings you closer to lush green hills into the hard and rugged world of Upper Mustang. A wind-eroded cliff and barren valleys create the character of a place that is nothing like the rest of Nepal. This day’s drive is actually an introduction to the geography and culture of Mustang; with every turn, there is a story of survival and adaptability.

Ghami welcomes you to itself with peace and serenity. The harmony of ancient architecture and the monastery reverberates with rich cultural heritage.

The trail moves to Ghami Village (3520m) and then proceeds through the Syangboche Pass (4200m). The terrains around you will make it absolutely stunning so you can even see the high mountains including the Himalayas, the Annapurna, the Nilgiri, and the Dhaulagiri ranges.

The road to Lo-Manthang (3840m) actually meanders through the way to the heart of Upper Mustang. It takes the traveler through the dramatic landscape of cliffs, canyons, and vivid rock formations, all marked through centuries of natural area erosion.

On reaching Lo-Manthang, this walled city comes alive with its past and cultural significance. Formerly the capital of the Kingdom of Lo, the medieval town is a treasure of history in its royal palace and its old monasteries-they are all witnesses to a richer past. Its narrow alleys and unique scramble of structures provide the viewer a glimpse into the way of life that is preserved over generations.

This vibrant cultural tapestry, with the best of nature’s surroundings, makes Lo-Manthang the crowning glory of the Upper Mustang Overland Tour. Overnight stay at a local lodge at Lo Manthang.

This day is all about diving into the history of Lo-Manthang and nearby spots. A trip to Chhosar shows old cave homes dug into cliffs, some thought to be over a thousand years old. These caves, once used for prayer and as homes, give a glimpse into Mustang’s past way of living.

Back in Lo-Manthang, you can walk through lively temples with fine wall art and age-old items. The town’s strong Buddhist roots show in its rites and buildings, filling the place with a calm and moving air that draws many.

As you roam Lo-Manthang, you’ll see how its past, ways of life, and nature blend. This day adds depth to what you know of the area and shows its strong ties with the hard yet stunning land.

On the ninth day of the Upper Mustang Overland Tour, you will drive back to Jomsom from Lo Manthang. Driving back to Jomsom (2743m), you will see Mustang’s dry hills in a new way. As you go down, the dry beauty of Upper Mustang fades into greener lands below. The trip shows how the land changes, from windy wide spaces to rich low areas. Jomsom’s warmer air and busy feel are a nice change.

In Jomsom, you can rest and recreate the memories of your Mustang adventure. The town, tucked among the big Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks, ends your travel day in peace. Stay overnight in Jomsom.

Today, you will drive back to Pokhara from Jomsom, following the same trail you previously went on. You will cross through the same villages, green hills, and Kali Gandaki Gorge during the journey.

Also, you will get the chance to have the stunning views of the Himalayan Peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and more.

Today is the return day from Pokhara to Kathmandu, which takes 6 to 7 hours. You will set a journey of 200 km passing through local settlements at Tanahun and Dhading. 

You will drive along Marsyangdi and Trishuli river before reaching Kathmandu. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you will check into a hotel and stay overnight.

The 12th day of the Upper Mustang Overland Tour is the last day of your stay in Nepal. Today, you will depart from this beautiful country after the completion of the tour. Our representative will help you reach Tribhuvan International Airport from where you will onboard a flight to your home country.