Upper Mustang Jeep Tour offers a unique blend of adventure and cultural exploration amidst the Mustang region’s rugged landscapes and ancient villages. The upper Mustang Jeep tour explores the spectacularly vast, arid valleys in the Himalayas, where the Tibetan culture continues to survive. Ancient caves, historic monasteries, and archaeological sites in the Upper Mustang, situated on the northwest frontier bordering Tibet, are top tourist destinations worldwide. This trip is for those who do not want to take a longer journey to the Upper Mustang Trek.
Mustang is the hinterland, enriched mainly by barren ridges, deep canyons, eroded cliffs, and Moraine valleys. Its landscape is unrivaled, for it has an astonishing wilderness, pristine scenery, snow-capped peaks, spectacular 16th-century monasteries, and many other unique attractions. The views of windswept Kali-Gandaki valley, vast spaces around Kagbeni, and vast ridges that straggle high mountains provide a mind-blowing experience. The Upper Mustang region was once a base for Khampa guerrillas‘ shelter against China’s exaction of complete control over Tibet.
Major Highlights Of Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
Enjoy a one-week-long jeep tour through the remote Kali Gandaki Valley and Lo Valley.
Witness the iconic site of the 2500-year-old Jhong Cave and other human-made caves in Syangboche.
Catch the majestic panoramic view of Annapurna I (8091m), Mt. Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and Gangapurna.
Explore the walled city of Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of Upper Mustang, with its rich history and unique architecture.
Visit centuries-old monasteries such as Thubchen Gompa and Chhoser Cave, experiencing the region’s deep spiritual heritage.
Experience the vibrant Tiji Festival, a three-day ritual with traditional dances and elaborate costumes, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Marvel at the stunning rock formations, deep gorges, and desert-like landscapes that define the Upper Mustang region.
Savor traditional Tibetan and Nepali cuisine, including Thukpa, Tsampa, and Yak butter tea, while enjoying the warm hospitality of the Mustang people.
Explore the ancient cave dwellings in Chhoser, which monks have used for meditation and as shelters by locals for centuries.
Upper Mustang Trip Difficulty
The Upper Mustang trek is considered moderate to strenuous, primarily due to its rugged and remote terrain. The trails, while well-defined, can be rocky, steep, and uneven, demanding a good level of physical fitness. The region’s high altitude, with Lo Manthang situated around 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) above sea level, poses a risk of altitude sickness, making proper acclimatization crucial.
Daily treks typically involve 4-6 hours of walking, varying distances and durations depending on the itinerary. Weather conditions can be unpredictable. For this trek, mental resilience is also essential to handle the trek’s physical challenges, varying weather, and remote nature. Despite these challenges, the trek offers a rewarding experience as trekkers can witness stunning landscapes and rich cultural encounters.
7 Days Upper Mustang Jeep Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Drive to Pokhara
Day 1 Facts
Trekking Time Average
200km Drive to Pokhara
(Avg 6hrs)
Accommodation
Hotel Kausi
Altitude
(850m./2805ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast
Mustang Jeep tour, begins at Kathmandu. After a delicious breakfast, you’ll embark on a tourist bus and begin driving along with your tour guide to Pokhara. Located 200km west to Kathmandu, the scenic overland journey goes alongside the massive Trishuli River. Witness the lush forests, massive river, and the Himalayas en route to Pokhara. The entire journey may last anywhere from 5-6 hours. Upon arrival, you’ll drive to Lakeside town of Pokhara and check into the hotel. You can spend the evening exploring the beautiful Phewa Lake and the neighboring town. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 2
Drive to Chhuksang
Day 2 Facts
Trekking Time Average
170km Drive to Chhuksang (Avg 8hrs)
Accommodation
Braka Guest House/ Bratang Lodge
Altitude
(2980m./9834ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After an early breakfast drive to Chhuksang, a super scenic drive of 6 -hours brings you at Jomsom, the district headquarter of Mustang. This is a large town. It is also a major village on the Kaligandaki area linking the age old Trans-Himalayan Salt Trade route to Tibet. From Jomsom onwards it is very windy in the afternoon; we drive on the gradual path on the Kali Gandaki river bed and finally reaching at Chhusang. On arrival, check in at the hotel with the afternoon free for a stroll around the village. Stay there overnight at the lodge.
Day 3
Drive to Lomanthang
Day 3 Facts
Trekking Time Average
50km Drive to Lomanthang (Avg 6hrs)
Accommodation
Lotus Holiday inn or Similar category
Altitude
(3840m./12672ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The tour materializes as you leave Chusang and begin heading towards Lo Manthang. The walled city lies 50 km from Chusang and may take almost 6 hours to reach. The dirt road advances through the remote part of Lo Valley. Begin climbing towards Lo La (3960m), the highest point of Tsarang to Lo Manthang. As you begin to descend, you can catch the breathtaking sight of the walled city amidst the remote landscape.
Day 4
Explore Jhong Caves and Monasteries
Day 4 Facts
Trekking Time Average
03 hrs. jeep tour
Accommodation
Lotus Holiday Inn or Similar category
Altitude
(3840m./12672ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy a delicious breakfast, and then embark on a scenic sightseeing tour outside Lo Manthang. After exiting the city, you’ll begin jeep tour towards the ancient Nyiphu and Garphu Monasteries. These monasteries lay close to the 2,500 years old Jhong Caves. After exploring the beautiful monasteries, you’ll begin climbing the Jhong Cave, which comprises a large intersection of caves with 44 different compartments.The day will end with a tour to the Summer Palace of the Late King of Mustang, Raja Jigme Dorje Palbar Bista. After witnessing this historical site, you’ll head towards the Namgyal Gompa.
Day 5
Drive to Marpha
Day 5 Facts
Trekking Time Average
80km Drive to Marpha
(Avg 6hrs)
Accommodation
Hotel Paradise or Similar category
Altitude
(2650m./8745ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After enjoying breakfast, leave Lomanthang and head all the way back to Marpha. This little town is a quiet, clean, and beautiful capital city of Apple. Stay overnight.
Day 6
Drive to Pokhara
Day 6 Facts
Trekking Time Average
150km Drive to Pokhara
(Avg 8hrs)
Accommodation
Hotel Kausi
Altitude
(850m./2805ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch
After early breakfast, Jump on Jeep to ride to Pokhara. The scenic trans-Himalayan flight takes you over the massive Annapurna massif and the Kali Gandaki Gorge, Rupse Waterfall and Tatopani towards Pokhara City. Upon arrival, you can enjoy your breakfast and spend the day exploring the beautiful city. Pokhara is the ultimate tourist getaway and is home to numerous tourist sites such as Phewa Lake, Tal Barahi Temple, Davis Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, UNESCO designated Pokhara Peace Pagoda, and Mountain Museum. Enjoy the completion of the trip with a lavish dinner beside the beautiful Phewa Lake. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 7
Drive to Kathmandu
Day 7 Facts
Trekking Time Average
200km drive to Kathmandu (Avg 6hrs)
Altitude
(1295m./4273ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast
Today is the last day of the trip. Catch the mesmerizing sight of Annapurna I and Machhapuchhre Peaks from the hotel. After breakfast, you’ll embark on a tourist bus and begin driving back to Kathmandu. The half-day long drive goes alongside Trishuli River and the colorful towns of Manakamana and Malekhu en route to Kathmandu. Overnight in Kathmandu.
What’s Included
Pick Up at Tribhuwan International Airport and Transfer to Hotel in Kathmandu.
Hotel accommodation ( Hotel Kausi ) in Pokhara with breakfast .
Mustang Special permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and necessary permits.
Private overland transportation as per mentioned in itinerary.
All accommodation ( Twin share basis) along the tour.
All meals (Breakfast, lunch, dinner) along the tour.
One fluent English speaking, government-registered, experienced, honest, informative and helpful tour guide and his food, salary, accommodation, transportation, equipment and insurance etc.
A Tour map, oxygen saturation check up everyday, water purification, company t-shirt, tour completion certificate etc.
Assistance for Emergency Rescue evacuation .
All kind of government tax and service charge.
Public Liability Insurance.
What’s Not included
Hotel accommodation and meals in Kathmandu.
All kind of table drinks as tea/coffee, coke, Fanta, beer, mineral water, hot water, battery charge, hot shower, desert etc.
Entrance fees during city tour.
Personal travel insurance.
International Flight Tickets.
Nepal Tourist Visa Fee
Tips for tour guide (Highly suggested).
Add-ons and Options
These add-ons help you customize the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour with luxury camping, adventure activities, and hotel or lodge upgrades in Pokhara, Kagbeni, and Lomanthang.
You can tailor your tour with add-ons at checkout. After choosing your departure date from “Join Our Group Departure” or “Book the Trip”, the system displays optional extras. Just select the ones you want and adjust the quantity before finalizing your reservation. This completes your booking for the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour with your selected add-on facilities included.
Below are the add-on services provided for Upper Mustang Jeep Tour:
Luxury Camping Setup (Selected Nights) (USD 100 per night): Upgrade selected nights to luxury camping with comfortable beds, quality meals, and attentive service in remote areas.
Bungee at Bhotekoshi (USD 100 per person): Add a bungee jump over the Bhote Koshi gorge for an adrenaline highlight.
Rafting at Trishuli (USD 45 per person): Join a Trishuli River rafting trip with fun rapids and scenic views after your tour.
Upgrade Accommodation in Pokhara (5-star category) (USD 300 for two nights for double/twin share with breakfast): Upgrade two nights in Pokhara to 5-star accommodation with breakfast included.
Upgrade Accommodation in Kagbeni at Red House (USD 100 per night for double/twin share with breakfast, lunch, and dinner): Stay at Red House in Kagbeni with all meals included.
Upgrade Accommodation in Lomanthang at Royal Mustang Resort (USD 1000 for 2 nights for double/twin share with breakfast, lunch, and dinner): Upgrade two nights in Lomanthang to Royal Mustang Resort with all meals included.
Private Vehicle Transfers Pokhara to Kathmandu (car USD 100, jeep USD 150, van USD 200): Add a private transfer for the Pokhara–Kathmandu leg so you can ride in comfort with your group.
Pokhara Sightseeing (USD 30 per person): Add a guided sightseeing tour in Pokhara to connect your trek with the city’s main highlights.
Kathmandu to Pokhara by Flight (USD 120 per person one way / USD 240 round trip): Book one-way or return flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara for quick, convenient connections.
Paragliding in Pokhara (USD 90 per person for 45 minutes): Include a 45-minute paragliding session to experience Pokhara from high above.
Zipline in Pokhara (USD 80 per person): Experience a steep, high-speed descent on one of Pokhara’s popular ziplines.
Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (USD 168 per person): Fly directly from Jomsom to Pokhara to avoid a long road journey at the end of your tour.
Everest Air Tour 1 hour (USD 300 per person): Join a 1-hour air tour around Everest, with private airport transfers from your hotel in Kathmandu. This is a scenic flight with no landing.
Best Time To Visit Upper Mustang
January
-15°C to 5°C
February
-10°C to 8°C
March
-5°C to 12°C
April
0°C to 15°C
May
5°C to 18°C
June
7°C to 20°C
July
8°C to 20°C
August
8°C to 20°C
September
5°C to 18°C
October
0°C to 15°C
November
-5°C to 10°C
December
-10°C to 3°C
Spring (March to May):
Spring is among the best times to embark on a jeep tour to Upper Mustang. During these months, the weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 22°C during the day and cooler at night. The clear skies offer unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri. Additionally, spring is a vibrant time for local festivals and cultural events, immersing visitors in the region’s rich traditions.
Summer (June to August):
Summer in Upper Mustang coincides with the monsoon season in most of Nepal. However, Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, receiving significantly less rainfall than other regions. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C, making it warm. The landscapes are lush, and the air is filled with the scent of fresh growth. This season provides a unique opportunity to explore Upper Mustang without the crowds, as tourists less frequent it during these months. The reduced rainfall makes the jeep routes passable, but occasional showers can still be expected.
Autumn (September to November):
Autumn is arguably the best time to visit Upper Mustang. The weather is stable and dry, with daytime temperatures between 15°C to 20°C and cooler nights. This season also hosts the Tiji Festival, usually held in May or June, but its influence lingers in the region, and you might catch other smaller festivals and events. Autumn provides perfect trekking conditions and is the peak season for tourism in Upper Mustang due to its pleasant weather and excellent visibility.
Winter (December to February):
Winter in the Upper Mustang is characterized by cold temperatures, especially at night when it can drop below freezing. Daytime temperatures range from 0°C to 5°C. While the region receives minimal snowfall, the cold weather can be challenging. However, for those seeking solitude and a unique experience, winter offers a peaceful and serene environment with fewer tourists. Traveling by Jeep is possible, but being well-prepared for the cold and potential logistical challenges is essential.
Our scheduled group tours offer fixed departure dates, providing an excellent opportunity for travelers to join our small group trips.
Note : Our fixed group departure dates, services and price is guaranteed even if the group numbers are 1 person to maximum 18 persons. We will provide a guide cum porter if there is only 1 person to operate the trek and one more assistant guide if group size is above 10 persons. And of course, guide cum porter will carry 10 kg luggage
Every journey we create is uniquely tailored to you. Share your interests and passions, and our travel experts will design an unforgettable adventure filled with extraordinary, one-of-a-kind experiences crafted just for you.
Dec 2022 Tej quickly planned our trip providing us with the best options. Me and my fiancee wanted to focus on photography and Tej reviewed and adjusted his packages accordingly. His long serving partner Amar Gurung proved to be a reliable and selfless guide willing to fulfill all of ur…
"We went for a family trip with Nepal Alternative Treks and Expeditions to Kathmandu-Pokhra-Muktinath , and the experience has been fabulous. Organized by Mr. Tej Bahadur Gurung and Guided by Amar, below are some of the highlights and high points of this trip : 1. Kathmandu : The hotel and…
"An excellent trip: Tej was very helpful with planning, and has a good understanding of the Mustang area. Our guide (Nauser) and driver were also knowledgeable, and very patient with our various needs. My parents (in their 60s and 70s) really enjoyed the tour."
Accommodation and Meals During the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
Accommodation
Accommodations during the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour vary. They range from basic guesthouses to more comfortable lodges. They provide choices to suit different preferences and budgets. These stopovers include Kagbeni, Ghami, Tsarang, and Lo Manthang. Travelers can find guesthouses and lodges there. They offer clean and comfy rooms. These accommodations typically have shared bathrooms. But, some may have private rooms with attached bathrooms. It depends on availability and location.
Basic amenities such as clean bedding, blankets, and pillows are standard. They ensure a cozy stay in the rugged terrain of Upper Mustang. Many guesthouses and lodges have dining areas. There, travelers can eat and talk with other adventurers. Hot showers are available in some places. They often cost extra. Electricity is generally accessible, but power cuts can occur. Travelers should carry portable power banks. They can use them to charge devices during their stay.
Meals During the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour:
The lodges and guesthouses along the route typically provide meals on the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. The cuisine offered is a blend of traditional Nepali dishes and Western favorites. Traditional Nepali meals often include dal bhat. Steamed rice is served with lentil soup, vegetable curries, and pickles. They also include thukpa. It is a noodle soup with vegetables or meat. They also have momos. They are dumplings with various fillings. Some lodges also have Western options. These include pasta, pizza, sandwiches, and burgers.
Trekkers fuel on eggs, toast, porridge, pancakes, or Tibetan bread for breakfast. These hearty meals power their daily adventures. Beverages range from Nepali tea (milk tea) and black tea to instant coffee and hot lemon drinks. Some lodges also offer traditional drinks like butter tea or chang (barley beer). Most guesthouses can accommodate vegetarians. It’s best to inform them about any dietary needs or allergies. While meals are provided, snacks like energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits should be carried. They provide extra sustenance during the trek. You can buy bottled water. But a water purifier cuts plastic waste. It also ensures safe drinking during the journey.
What Permits To Upper Mustang Jeep Tourist Need?
To travel to Upper Mustang by jeep, you need two main permits: the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
Upper Mustang is a restricted area, so every visitor (trekker or jeep tourist) must have a RAP issued through a registered Nepali trekking agency. You pay a daily rate of USD 50 per person per day inside the restricted zone (north of Kagbeni) for the RAP.
Likewise, Upper Mustang lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, so ACAP is mandatory for all visitors, including jeep and motorbike travelers. It costs NPR 3,000 for non-SAARC nationals and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals (including Indians).
Upper Musang Jeep Tour duration
The tour lasts for six nights and seven days. So, you will have a lot of time to enjoy your tour. Similarly, during this time, you will have the fun and the experience of a lifetime. While on this journey, you will not know how time will pass because the walk is fun. There is also an alternative Upper Mustang Trek, which lasts for about 14-15 days.
Transportation During Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
You should not worry about transportation because we provide overland transportation during the tour. Similarly, the transportation we provide is high-class and has Wi-Fi facilities.
What People Ask About
Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
What are the physical fitness and other criteria required for this tour ?
Although you will not be walking on this tour, some of the days, our drive passes through the high elevation that can be demanding for acute mountain sickness, so it is beneficial for all travelers to exercise daily from a month before their trip. This helps the body get accustomed to the physical work required during the journey.
Participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood disease should inform us before booking the trek and are advised to seek medical advice or consent from their doctors before the tour .
As a single traveler, may I join fixed departure ? Will it be possible to get a separate room?
This group package is designed in such a way that they suit single travelers too. It is a great way to get to know new people with similar interests, and most people find that group dynamics are very friendly and comforting. Single trekkers will share accommodation with other individual trekkers of the same gender on our group journeys.
If you are a single traveler wishing for a private room, we can manage that as well, but you will have to inform us about it while booking the trip. Also, please note that you may have to pay some additional charges for single rooms.
Is Travel Insurance compulsorily required to this area ? Does your company pay for the Travel Insurance of guide?
While booking a tour with us, we do require you to have travel insurance that must cover medical and emergency helicopter rescue with evacuation expenses at 4000m. altitude for tour members. You should provide the insurance documents before you depart for the tour.
If you do not or cannot find an appropriate insurance policy, we will assist you with one. It will help you in potential altitude sickness and unforeseen events due to sudden weather changes.
Yes, we do pay for the insurance policy of our team members. Nepal Alternative Treks fund the expenses for insurance of all of its members along with their meals, salary, lodging, transportation, and other necessary equipment.
Can we change money along the route ? Can we pay by credit card or foreign currency ?
You will be able to change money in Jomsom but the rate will be low. So, we recommend changing money at Thamel or Pokhara. Credit card and foreign currency are not accepted along the route. You are better to take enough cash from Kathmandu/Pokhara.
How many travelers can accommodate in a jeep ?
Usually, we arrange one Jeep for 6 travelers and one tour guide but we can customize as per your preference to travel if you want to drive more comfortably. The cost will be subject to change if we decrease the number of travelers in a jeep.
How long will we drive each day during the tour ?
An average day of tour involves around 4 to 6 hours of driving, including breaks for meals as needed. The average distance covered depends on the terrain and altitude, but ranges from 60 to 70 kilometers on average.
Along the way, you will have many chances for photography and other personal interests such as bird watching and discovering local areas of interest like natural springs, hot water ponds, and even exploring flora and fauna.
What kind of toilet facilities are there? Will we be able to take a shower in Mountain regions?
Lodges and teahouses in this route have excellent infrastructure and are likely to have western-style toilets, and sometimes even attached toilets. Finding toilet paper is costly in these areas, so we advise you to carry plenty of your own.
If you need to use the toilet while driving, we will try to find the nearest lodge, if possible; otherwise, you will have to manage it somewhere in the forests. Please respect the environment by placing the used toilet paper in a plastic bag so that you can dispose of it later.
Usually, Nepal Alternative Treks arranges accommodation with proper shower facilities. Please understand that it becomes difficult to arrange running showers and hot water facilities as the altitude increases. So, in remote mountainous regions, showers cost some extra money.
Are alcoholic beverages available in tour ?
You can easily find different types of alcoholic beverages of international as well as Nepalese brands in this trekking route. In villages, however, you can either find local (home-made) drinks like Chyang, Raksi, and Tongba or other packaged drinks of Nepalese brands and Chinese brands. However, we do not suggest you consume alcoholic beverages often during tour as it causes difficulties in tour the next day.
Is it possible to recharge batteries and electronics during the tour ?
Nowadays, all kinds of facilities, including recharging batteries and electronics, are available in Upper Mustang route and also have electricity and recharging facilities available for a minimal service charge.
Also, note that the Nepalese plugs are of Type D, and the voltage is about 220-240 V. So, make sure that your devices are chargeable. Otherwise, you shall require adapters and voltage stabilizers.
Is it possible to communicate with friends and family back home while on tour ?
There are mobile networks, internet data, and Wi-Fi available in some parts of this region, and you can connect to your friends and family back home.
For mobile network and internet data, you will require a Nepalese SIM-Card. If you wish to buy a Nepalese SIM-Card, we will assist you in getting it. You can buy a SIM-Card from local distributors easily with some fees. We recommend Namaste SIM to have better network coverage and 4G data uses.
Need assistance? Our travel expert Tej Bahadur Gurung is here to help! Please fill out the form below to initiate a chat and get your queries resolved quickly.
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