Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
Trip overview
Upper Mustang Jeep Tour, in full
Upper Mustang Jeep Tour itinerary, cost, map, permits, altitude, difficulty, best time, route details and complete trekking guide with Real Himalaya.
Your trip at a glance
- Destination
- Mustang region
- Duration
- 11 days
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Max elevation
- 4200 m
- Group size
- 8-12 people
- Activities
- Jeep Tour
Day by day
Detailed itinerary
- 1
Arrival in Kathmandu at Tribhuvan International Airport
Namaste and welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport , you are greeted by our Real Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. representative and transferred to your hotel by private vehicle. The vibrant streets of Kathmandu, filled with ancient temples, colorful prayer flags, and the distant silhouette of snow-capped peaks, prepare you for the adventure ahead. In the evening, our tour guide will brief you about your Upper Mustang journey.
- 2
Kathmandu Sightseeing, Permit Arrangement, and Flight to Pokhara
After breakfast, the morning is dedicated to obtaining the special Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit. While the permits are being processed, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites . Visit the ancient Buddhist stupa of Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) with panoramic city views, the sacred Pashupatinath Temple on the banks of the Bagmati River, the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa (one of the largest in the world), and the historic Patan Durbar Square . In the evening, transfer to the airport for your scenic flight to Pokhara , Nepal's adventure capital. Upon arrival, transfer to your lakeside hotel with views of the Annapurna range reflected in Phewa Lake.
- 3
Drive from Pokhara to Tatopani by 4WD Jeep
After breakfast, your overland adventure begins! Board your 4WD Land Cruiser or Mahindra Scorpio and drive west to Beni , where the paved road ends and the off-road adventure begins. The route follows the legendary Kali Gandaki River through one of the world's deepest gorges, with Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and Annapurna I (8,091 m) towering on either side. The dramatic landscapes of sheer cliffs, waterfalls, and the roaring river create an unforgettable journey. By evening, you arrive at Tatopani (2,600 m) , famous for its natural hot springs. Soak your tired muscles in the therapeutic waters beside the river.
- 4
Drive from Tatopani to Kagbeni and Visit Muktinath Temple by 4WD Jeep
Continue the journey north through the Kali Gandaki valley. Pass through the villages of Kalopani and Ghasa , with stunning mountain views throughout. Stop at Marpha Village , famous for its apple orchards, apple pie, and apple brandy. Continue to the windswept town of Jomsom , the district headquarters, before reaching Kagbeni , the gateway to Upper Mustang. From Kagbeni, drive up to the sacred Muktinath Temple (3,800 m) . This holy complex features 108 water spouts and the remarkable Jwala Mai (eternal flame) burning from natural gas. Visit the Buddhist monastery at Jharkot with views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak before returning to Kagbeni.
- 5
Drive from Kagbeni to Ghami Village via Syangboche Pass by 4WD Jeep
After breakfast, visit the Kagbeni Monastery and Buddhist School . Your guide will complete the special permit formalities at the checkpoint, and you officially enter the Restricted Area of Upper Mustang . The landscape transforms dramatically as you leave the Kali Gandaki valley. The jeep crosses the river near Chhusang village and climbs through increasingly dramatic terrain. Pass through Chella, Samar, and Syangboche villages , crossing the spectacular Syangboche Pass (4,200 m) with panoramic views. Continue through Bhina and Ghiling before arriving at Ghami Village (3,520 m) . Throughout the day, you witness the unique landscapes of Upper Mustang: wind-carved cliffs, ancient caves, yak c
- 6
Drive from Ghami to Lo Manthang by 4WD Jeep
A shorter driving day allows time to explore the walled city of Lo Manthang. Along the way, stop at the important Lo Gekar Ghar Gompa , one of the most significant monasteries in Upper Mustang. Visit Charang Monastery before arriving at the legendary Lo Manthang (3,840 m) , the walled capital of the Kingdom of Lo. Spend the afternoon exploring this remarkable medieval city. Visit the Jampa Gompa (the oldest monastery, built in the early 15th century), the massive red assembly hall of Thubchen Gompa (late 15th century), Chodey Gompa (the main city gompa), and the Monastic Museum . Observe the King's Palace, Buddhist school, local artisans, and the daily life of this extraordinary city.
- 7
Exploration Day: Lo Manthang and Chhosar Sky Caves
A full day to explore the wonders of Upper Mustang. After breakfast, drive to Chhosar to visit the mysterious sky caves that have fascinated archaeologists from around the world. The Shija Jhong cave and other caves in the area date back over 3,000 years and have been used for burial, meditation, and living. These remarkable sites offer glimpses into prehistoric Himalayan life. The landscapes near Chhosar, approaching the Tibetan border, are particularly dramatic. (Note: Foreigners cannot travel to the Korala border, but Chhosar village, approximately 8 km from the border, is accessible.) Return to Lo Manthang for further exploration or relaxation. You may also visit Namgyal Gompa and observ
- 8
Drive from Lo Manthang to Jomsom by 4WD Jeep
Begin the return journey through Upper Mustang, retracing the spectacular route with new perspectives. The morning light offers different views of the dramatic landscapes, and you can stop at any viewpoints for photography. Pass through the villages visited on the way up, with opportunities to explore anything missed earlier. Cross back through the Kagbeni checkpoint, exiting the restricted area, and continue to Jomsom (2,743 m) , the bustling district headquarters on the banks of the Kali Gandaki. Spend the evening exploring the local market, where you can find local crafts, apple products, and Tibetan souvenirs.
- 9
Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara by 4WD Jeep
A long but scenic drive back through the Kali Gandaki gorge. Along the way, you can stop to revisit the Rupse Waterfall , one of Nepal's most beautiful cascades plunging over sheer cliffs. You may also have the opportunity to experience the world's highest bungee jump at Kushma or other activities along the route. The dramatic mountain scenery continues as you descend through the gorge, eventually reaching the lush middle hills and arriving at Pokhara by evening. Transfer to your lakeside hotel and celebrate the successful completion of your Upper Mustang adventure.
- 10
Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
After breakfast, transfer to Kathmandu by either private vehicle (approximately 6 hours) or scenic flight (25 minutes). The drive follows the Prithvi Highway along the Trisuli River, offering views of terraced hillsides and traditional villages. Alternatively, the flight provides stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival in Kathmandu , transfer to your hotel. The afternoon is free for last-minute shopping in Thamel or visiting any remaining cultural sites. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating your incredible journey to the hidden kingdom of Upper Mustang.
- 11
Final Departure from Kathmandu
After breakfast, our Real Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport by private vehicle for your onward journey. As your plane soars over the Himalayas, you carry with you the unforgettable memories of the walled city of Lo Manthang, the mysterious sky caves of Chhosar, the sacred Muktinath Temple, the world's deepest gorge, the otherworldly landscapes of the rain shadow region, and the timeless Tibetan Buddhist culture of Upper Mustang . Thank you for choosing Real Himalaya. For any queries, contact us at +977 985-1026840 www.realhimalaya.com Speak to an Expert Gokul Thapa +977-9851026840 View Dossier Online