Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
Be the first to review!
Overview
The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is a scenic overland journey through the Kali Gandaki Gorge. As it is located in northern central Nepal, Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow area of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges. This region consists of arid, high-altitude deserts, eroded cliffs, and deep canyons. Also, it is enhance with colorful prayer flags, chortens, and centuries-old mani walls. Once the kingdom of Lo, Upper Mustang has strong cultural ties to Tibet, preserving the Tibetan language and culture. Additionally, the area is known for its ancient monasteries, royal palaces, and centuries-old cave dwellings, offering breathtaking mountain views and a rich spiritual heritage.
Since the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour lasts 12 days, with almost all travel conducted by jeep and minimal walking required, it makes it an easy tour option. So basic fitness is sufficient, and no trekking or prior high-altitude experience is necessary. Additionally, this makes it suitable for beginners, families, and seniors seeking a comfortable adventure. Accommodations include basic tea houses, guesthouses, and local lodges. A Mustang restricted area permit and an ACAP are required for all visitors, which are arranged before the tour.
The best times to visit Upper Mustang are:
– Spring (March–May): Clear skies for far-reaching views and mild weather that is ideal for health and comfort.
– Autumn (September–November): Excellent mountain views with early snowfall enhancing the scenery.
– Summer (June–August): Possible visits, as Upper Mustang is in a rain-shadow zone.
Highlights of the Tour
– Visit the Muktinath temple and Gharghompa Namgyal Monastery.
– Explore Lo Manthang, its sky caves, ancient relics, and mural bones.
– Enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
– Observe traditional yak herding and taste Tibetan-influenced cuisine and butter tea.
– Engage culturally with the Loba people and Tibetan Buddhist monks.
Why Choose the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour?
The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour offers the essence of a high-altitude trek without the need for long days of walking. Additionally, it provides fast-track access by jeep, making it ideal for photographers, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts. Also, this tour is an excellent choice for those with physical constraints and is less commercialized than other treks. It’s suitable for private family groups and combines a depth of cultural experience with the preservation of tradition.
✅ What's Included:
-
Pick-up and drop-off at the airport in a private vehicle
-
All Special permits, including the Upper Mustang Special Permit and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
-
Hotel and lodge accommodation on a twin-sharing basis
-
All meals during the tour: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
-
Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu and Pokhara as per the itinerary
-
Government taxes, entry fees, and official service charges
-
Private Jeep or Tourist Bus for the full journey from Pokhara to Muktinath and back
❌ Price Excludes:
-
Optional activities like mountain flights or paragliding
-
Extra nights caused by flight delays, weather, or roadblocks
-
Emergency evacuation (helicopter or other means) if required
-
Personal expenses such as bar bills, room service, snacks, or medical costs
-
Travel insurance and health coverage
-
Tips for guides, drivers, and staff (optional but appreciated)
-
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except where mentioned)
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Arrival Kathmandu 1324m
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing (preparation Mustang permit) 1324m
Day 3: Drive From Kathmandu to Pokhara 822m / 5-6 hrs
Day 4: Drive from Pokhara to Tatopani - Kalapani - Late - Marpha 2650m / 5 hrs
Day 5: Drive Marpha to Jomsom - Kagbeni Tangbe - Chele 3998m / 5-6hrs
Day 6: Drive Chele - Chusang - Syangboche - Ghami — (via Syagboche La - Chunggar - Nyi La) 3560m / 5hrs
Day 7: Day 7: Drive Ghami - Tsarang Lo pass 3950mt - Lo Manthang 3840m 3-4hrs
Day 8: Exploring Lo Manthang 3840m
Day 9: Drive Lo Manthang - Chusang - Tetang - Kagbeni - Muktinath 3710m / 7hrsrs
Day 10: Drive Jomsom - Tatopani - Beni - Pokhara 822m / 6-7hrs
Day 11: Drive back to Kathmandu 1324m / 5- 6hrs
Day 12: Transfer to the international airport 25min
Detail Itinerary
Arrival Kathmandu 1324m
Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed by our representative from Trek Curator, who will assist you in transferring to your hotel. After checking in, you can choose to rest or visit a local restaurant to relax. Feel free to explore Thamel or Durbar Square, and in the evening, enjoy a cultural dance performance accompanied by traditional Nepali cuisine.
Kathmandu Sightseeing (preparation Mustang permit) 1324m
Today, you will embark on a full day of guided sightseeing in Kathmandu. You will visit notable sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and either Patan or Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Throughout the day, take in the local arts and crafts, observe prayer rituals, and admire the old architecture and historic sites. You can also try some local cuisine during your exploration. After sightseeing, there will be a brief introduction to the upcoming tour, and you will prepare the essential items for the trip, including obtaining your permits
Drive From Kathmandu to Pokhara 822m / 5-6 hrs
Early in the morning, set out on a scenic drive to Pokhara. This journey takes about 5-6 hours and features stunning views of terraced fields, rural villages, lush forests, and the majestic Himalayas. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel and enjoy the relaxed lakeside atmosphere. If time permits, consider taking a boat ride on Phewa Lake and take in the panoramic views of the Machhapuchhre (Fish Tail) mountain. In the evening, you can dine lakeside and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Drive from Pokhara to Tatopani - Kalapani - Late - Marpha 2650m / 5 hrs
After breakfast, begin your journey into the Kaligandaki Valley. Your first stop will be Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs. Continuing, you’ll head to Kalapani and Lele. Enjoy stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains, as well as traditional stone-roofed villages along the route. After several hours of driving, you will arrive in Marpha, renowned as the apple capital of Nepal. Explore the village’s whitewashed houses, Buddhist monasteries, and sample local apple products like cider and dried snacks. Overnight stay in Marpha.
Drive Marpha to Jomsom - Kagbeni Tangbe - Chele 3998m / 5-6hrs
In the morning, travel to Jomsom, known for its fierce afternoon winds. From Jomsom, you will head to Kagbeni, an ancient salt trade stop and the gateway to Upper Mustang. Experience the striking changes in the landscape as you transition from Lower to Upper Mustang. Next, visit the traditional Mustang village of Tangbe, known for its whitewashed houses and chortens. Then continue your journey to Chele, where you can immerse yourself in the Tibetan cultural influences unique to Upper Mustang.
Drive Chele - Chusang - Syangboche - Ghami — (via Syagboche La - Chunggar - Nyi La) 3560m / 5hrs
Leaving Chele, you will navigate a rugged terrain, driving towards Chusang. From there, cross the Syangboche La (3,850 m), Nyi La (3,950 m), and Chhuggar to reach Ghami. This large village features ancient monasteries and the longest Mani wall in the region, holding significant cultural and historic value tied to early Mustang legends.
Drive Ghami - Tsarang Lo pass 3950mt - Lo Manthang 3840m 3-4hrs
Begin your day with a morning visit to Tsarang, a town characterized by canyons leading to Tibet. Explore Tsarang’s red monastery and the old royal palace with its maze-like streets. You will then cross the Lo La Pass, providing your first glimpse of the walled city of Lo Manthang.
Exploring Lo Manthang 3840m
On this day, dive into the wonders of Lo Manthang. Visit Jampa Gompa, featuring three 3-story Buddhas, and Thubchen Monastery, famous for its vivid murals. Don’t miss the royal palace, which houses the last king of Mustang. Adventure options in Lo Manthang include exploring the Chhoser sky caves, Nyphu Gompa, and even horse riding to a nearby border village. Engage with residents to learn about the symbolic art and rich legends of their culture.
Drive Lo Manthang - Chusang - Tetang - Kagbeni - Muktinath 3710m / 7hrs
Depart from Lo Manthang to the sacred site of Muktinath Temple, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. This site holds great cultural and spiritual significance, offering insights into the lives of Tibetan pilgrims, local hermits, and wandering sadhus. Consider taking a bath at the temple, visiting the 108 water spouts, and witnessing the eternal flame before heading to Jomsom for the night.
Drive Jomsom - Tatopani - Beni - Pokhara 822m / 6-7hrs
Retrace your route back to Pokhara, stopping in Tatopani for lunch. Here, enjoy a restorative dip in the hot springs, which will help alleviate muscle soreness and reduce stress from the journey. After your relaxing break, continue to Pokhara.
Drive back to Kathmandu 1324m / 5- 6hrs
Today, you will drive back to Kathmandu via the Prithvi Highway. Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful views of mountain landscapes, charming villages, and lush forests, which contrast with the serene beauty of Mustang and the hilly areas. In the evening, you’ll have the opportunity to go shopping and savor a farewell dinner featuring local cuisine, accompanied by a cultural program.
Transfer to the international airport 25min
Depending on your flight time, you will check out of the hotel. Our representative will assist you with your transfer to the airport. This concludes your culturally immersive and unique Mustang journey, leaving you with beautiful memories that will last a lifetime..