Tucked away in the remote northern region of Nepal lies Upper Mustang, a land of mystique and wonder. Often referred to as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” Upper Mustang offers travelers a unique blend of natural beauty, ancient culture, and unparalleled adventure. This hidden gem is a must-visit destination for those seeking a journey off the beaten path.
Getting to Upper Mustang by Jeep
Reaching Upper Mustang by jeep is an adventure in itself. Most travelers start their journey in Pokhara, Nepal’s adventure hub. From there, a rugged jeep ride takes you through some of the most scenic and challenging terrains, passing through Jomsom, the gateway to Mustang.
The jeep route follows winding mountain roads, crossing the Kali Gandaki River and high-altitude passes. Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, ancient villages, and dramatic desert landscapes. This journey is ideal for those who want to experience the beauty of Mustang without trekking extensively.
A Suggested Jeep Itinerary for Upper Mustang
Day 1: Arrive in Pokhara
- Arrive in Pokhara and check into your hotel.
- Spend the day winding down, exploring the lakeside area, and relaxing in the evening.
Day 2: Head to Kagbeni
- Begin your jeep journey early from Pokhara.
- Stop for a refreshing lunch break at Tatopani (elevation: 1,200 meters / 3,937 feet), known for its natural hot springs.
- Enjoy a brief stop at Rupse Waterfall, a majestic cascade along the way, perfect for photos.
- Take a small break at Tukuche (elevation: 2,590 meters / 8,497 feet), a picturesque village known for its apple orchards and stunning mountain views.
- Continue the drive to Kagbeni (elevation: 2,804 meters / 9,199 feet), arriving by late afternoon.
- Explore the charming Kagbeni village, its ancient monastery, and the holy site at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Jhong Rivers, where pilgrims perform rituals and pay homage to their ancestors.
- Prepare for the cold, windy night and the adventure ahead to Ghami the next day.
Day 3: Head to Ghami
- Drive from Kagbeni to Ghami (elevation: 3,520 meters / 11,548 feet), covering approximately 35 kilometers.
- Stop at Tangbe, a small village known for its apple orchards, and explore the scenic surroundings.
- Take a tea break at Chuksang, a peaceful village surrounded by dramatic red cliffs.
- Pass through Chele, enjoying its stunning landscapes and ancient architecture.
- Stop for lunch at Syanboche, where you can explore newly built monasteries, fallen ruins of old castles, and traditional Tibetan culture.
- Continue the drive to Ghami, where you’ll unwind for the night, preparing for the next day’s journey.
Day 4: Head to Lo Manthang
- Depart from Ghami and head towards Lo Manthang (elevation: 3,840 meters / 12,598 feet), covering approximately 27 kilometers.
- Drive past lines of chhortens (stupas) and breathtaking rock formations. Some of these rocks and chhortens bear a distinctive red color, which local folklore attributes to an ancient myth: the red symbolizes the blood of battles fought by deities to protect the land.
- Stop along the way to capture photographs of the majestic landscape.
- Make a short stop at Tsarang (elevation: 3,560 meters / 11,680 feet), a picturesque village with a historic monastery and ancient fort.
- Just before reaching Lo Manthang, stop at the Lo Manthang Viewpoint for a panoramic view of the walled city and its surroundings.
- Reach Lo Manthang by lunchtime and check into your accommodation.
- After some rest, explore Jampa Lhakhang (the “God House”) and other monasteries. Your monastery passes last for three days, allowing you to visit at your leisure. The main monasteries surrounding the castle are Thubchen, Jampa, and Chode.
- Note that entry fees for monasteries range from NPR 1,000 to 2,000 per person, depending on the site.
- Spend the evening soaking in the unique atmosphere of Lo Manthang, interacting with locals, and enjoying traditional Tibetan-inspired cuisine.
Day 5: Discover Lo Manthang
- Dedicate a full day to exploring Lo Manthang and its surroundings.
- Take a jeep excursion to Garphu Village, where you’ll need a pass to explore. Here, you can also take photographs wearing traditional cultural attire for an additional fee.
- Visit the Zhong Cave, an ancient refuge where Tibetan refugees once hid from invaders (possibly Chinese), emerging only at night to fetch water. The cave is a testament to the resilience and history of the region.
- Explore nearby monasteries, including the Sun Cave Monastery and others scattered around the area.
- If time permits, take a round trip back through Nhichung, but note that foreigners are not allowed beyond this point as it leads to the Korola border with Tibet.
- Return to Lo Manthang, enjoy a leisurely evening, and prepare for the descent the next day.
Day 6: Drop to Chusang (Optional Visit to Muktinath)
- Begin your descent to Chusang (elevation: 2,980 meters / 9,777 feet), covering approximately 45 kilometers.
- Optionally, visit the sacred Muktinath Temple (elevation: 3,710 meters / 12,172 feet), revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Located approximately 25 kilometers from Kagbeni, Muktinath is a pilgrimage site known for its 108 water spouts and eternal flame.
- Spend time exploring the temple and its surroundings, enjoying the spiritual significance and panoramic views of the Annapurna range.
- Return to Kagbeni for the night, if time permits.
- If skipping Muktinath, proceed directly to Chusang. Arrive by late afternoon, allowing time to explore the village’s apple orchards, take in the stunning scenery, and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Day 7: Drop to Tatopani (Stop at Jomsom)
- Head down to Tatopani, stopping at Jomsom (elevation: 2,743 meters / 9,000 feet) for lunch and sightseeing.
- Take some time to explore Jomsom’s local markets and enjoy the view of Nilgiri Peak.
- Borrow cultural attire for photographs or shop for souvenirs such as apple brandy, dried meat (sukuti), herbs, and local crafts.
- Stop at Tukuche for an excellent dal bhat lunch and continue onward.
- Arrive in Tatopani by mid-afternoon, where you can unwind in natural hot springs and take in the lush green surroundings.
- Reflect on the incredible journey through Upper Mustang.
Day 8: Back to Pokhara (Optional Stop at Sarangkot)
- Begin the final leg of your journey back to Pokhara, covering approximately 90 kilometers.
- Alternatively, spend the night at Sarangkot, a hilltop destination overlooking Pokhara. Sarangkot offers breathtaking views of the city lights and Phewa Lake at night.
- In the morning, enjoy a sunrise view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges (weather permitting). Peaks visible from Sarangkot include Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli.
- Take the scenic cable car ride back down to Pokhara, enjoying the views.
- Wrap up your adventure by exploring Pokhara’s lakeside, indulging in local cuisine, or taking a boat ride on Phewa Lake.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Permit Requirements: Upper Mustang is a restricted area, and travelers need a special permit to enter. This includes the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) costing USD 500 per person for the first 10 days.
- Daily Spending: Expect to spend approximately NPR 3,000–5,000 per day on accommodation, food, and local fees, excluding permit costs.
- Road Conditions: The roads to Upper Mustang are rugged and challenging. Be prepared for a bumpy ride and occasional delays.
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal months are April to June and September to November, offering clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
- Sustainable Travel: Respect the local culture and environment. Avoid using single-use plastics and support local businesses.
- Pack Smart: Bring warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and essentials like snacks, water, and a first aid kit. Nights can get chilly, even in warmer months.
Why Visit Upper Mustang?
Upper Mustang is more than just a travel destination; it’s an experience that stays with you forever. Whether you’re drawn to its stunning landscapes, ancient history, or the warm hospitality of its people, a journey to Upper Mustang promises memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and embark on a thrilling jeep adventure to this enchanting corner of Nepal — a land where time seems to stand still.
Written by – Aakash