Trek booking opened for 2024/25 ! A notice for Lukla flight diversion through Manthali Airport from March, April and October and November 2024 !
Upper Mustang Jeep Tour – 7 Days
7 Days Upper Mustang Jeep Tour Facts
Weather |
Weather | -10°C to 20°C | View Weather Detail |
---|---|---|---|
Duration |
Duration | 7 Days | |
Difficulty |
Difficulty | Moderate | View Difficulty Detail |
Accommodation |
Accommodation | Lodges | |
Meals Included |
Meals Included | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | |
Best Season |
Best Season | Sept, Oct, Nov, March, April, May | |
Transportation |
Transportation | Private Jeep | |
Daily Activity |
Daily Activity | Approx. 5 - 6 hours | |
Religion |
Religion | Buddhist, Bon | |
Ethnic People |
Ethnic People | Gurung, Thakali, Lowa | |
Geographic Terrain |
Geographic Terrain | Mountain, Desert, Village, Lake, Cave, River | |
Region of Nepal |
Region of Nepal | Mustang, Annapurna Region | |
Max. Altitude |
Max. Altitude | 3900m./12870ft. |
Overview
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.
Upper Mustang Jeep Tour Highlights
- 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.
Best Time To Visit Upper Mustang
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.
7 Days Upper Mustang Jeep Tour Day-to-day-Itinerary
Day 1
Drive to Pokhara
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
Included
- Tribhuwan International Airport ( Airport – Hotel – Airport ) transfer 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 English and local language fluent 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.
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.
- Tips for tour guide (Highly suggested).
Route Map
Book the Trip
Available dates..
Currently, we do not have any scheduled group trips, but you are welcome to embark on the journey on a date that suits you best.
Need a private date?
The given rates are per person with guaranteed departure schedules. If the given dates are not appropriate for you, please feel free to contact us for requesting a new dates, we will gladly personalize the itinerary and schedule of the trip that fits for you.
Traveler Reviews
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 requests. Together with his we roamed the wild deserted lands of the Upper mustang and visited the Chitwan national park. We would definitely plan our next trip with Nepal alternative treks and Expeditions.marco di coscio
Uzzano, Italy
Read More“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 food at Kathmandu Garden Green was amazing. The staff was very friendly and very helpful. The arrangements made by Tej ji were above standard. Vehicle provided for the tour and sight seeing were also in excellent condition. Entire Kathmandu sight seeing was guided and well explained by Tej Ji’s team. 2. Pokhra : We had our accommodation at Lake mahal pokhra which is just a stones throw from phewa lake and had beautiful views from hotel. The sight seeing and food at pokhra were also very well organized. 3. Mustang and Muktinath : We travelled to mustang and muktinath on
Rohit Bhattacharya
India
ESSENTIAL INFO
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.
Permits
Mustang Special Permit
USD 500 for 10 days and USD 50 per day for extra days.
ACAP
NPR. 3000 for foreigners and NPR 1000 for SAARC.
Tour availability
Mostly, the tour can be done throughout the year. But, in case you should always pre-book your tour. In busy seasons.
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
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.
Gear List
Gears required for the trek vary depending on destination and season. A comprehensive list of gear for all activities is listed on our dedicated page of Trekking Gear List
Frequently
Asked Questions
What are the physical fitness and other criteria required for this tour ?
As a single traveler, may I join fixed departure ? Will it be possible to get a separate room?
Is Travel Insurance compulsorily required to this area ? Does your company pay for the Travel Insurance of guide?
Can we change money along the route ? Can we pay by credit card or foreign currency ?
How many travelers can accommodate in a jeep ?
How long will we drive each day during the tour ?
What kind of toilet facilities are there? Will we be able to take a shower in Mountain regions?
Are alcoholic beverages available in tour ?
Is it possible to recharge batteries and electronics during the tour ?
Is it possible to communicate with friends and family back home while on tour ?
We value
Service Excellence
Travellers really like us
Recommended by 100% of travelers
We thank our guests for trekking with us, reviewing our services, and making us eligible for the prestigious awards. We also sincerely thank our dedicated staff for their unwavering commitment and continuous support of our company. Without their hard work, dedication, and passion, the awards and achievements we have received wouldn’t be possible.
Honors and Achievements
Recommended by 100% of travelers
13 Days Manaslu Trek !
My friend and I were lucky to find Tej online before visiting Nepal. We knew we wanted to do a trek, but we weren’t sure exactly which trek. Tej sent us a bunch of itineraries for different treks and we chose the Manaslu circuit. When we arrived our guide, Kumar, was waiting for us at the airport and Tej was able to get us all our permits for the trek done in less than 2 hours which was great. The manaslu trek was absolutely amazing! We were super happy with our whole trip and we were lucky to be able to make the pass even though we saw dozens of other people who had to turn back because of the weather. We are already looking forward to going back next year at the same time to trek Everest and we will definitely use Tej again!
Kyle J. Mechling
,USA3 Weeks Personal Retreat
“Nepal Alternative Trek addressed my needs according to my schedule and agenda. I stayed most of the time at his home-stay, shuttling between home and the places that I wanted to visit. Tej, the boss behind Nepal Alternative Trek, helped to make my stay in Kathmandu comfortable and productive. He walked me to the monasteries that I wanted to visit and even picked me up when I needed a ride back home.
The home-stay is hosted by his wife and I got to experience living with a Nepalese family, sharing their food, space and laughter.
For the home-stay:
1) Meals available upon request
2) Family get together and chats
3) Regular change of bed-sheets and towels
4) Free WIFI
5) Near Swayambhu and Thamel
6) Safe environment
7) Mountainous forest behind home
8) Walking distance to beautiful monasteries
9) Away from hustle and bustle of towns yet easy to get to town
I left the home-stay with a smile.
All the best,
Richard
Singapore”
Richard O
Singapore River, Singapore6 Months Of Preparation For ABC Trekking
Goal was achieved 4130 meter and 0 degree celsius, Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It was 6 months of preparation. It was challenging target for us. We had dense forest, mountain, and completely wilderness above the treeline, it was windy and terrain . There is a huge support team. Without them it would not be possible. We can do it , we just have to give time and practice. Mr. Gurung Ji, you with your entire 7 of team were wonderful. They were always ready to help us.
Thanks Mr. Gurung ji for all the support, and guidance that made the trip successful. While all of us focused on Mountain, big thing but there were so many beautiful things along the way, stream, flowers, flora, so many birds I took pictures. So, in summary, phenomenal, success and our confidence there. We know, we can do more and higher in next what bigger thing.
Devraj Dey
India8 days non trek city tour and 21days trek to EBC and chola pass
We love nepal and made 3 time visit to this beutiful country and rich culture. This time last year we came with 6 pax and visited Kathmandu , Pohkara and chitwan with a stay of 2 night in each place. We flew to Pohkara and got the van to chitwan and flew to Kathmandu. Tej arranged all transports overland and flights for us. We did not asked for a local guide but it was all smooth and no problem. We are happy with the service provided by Tej and he made all efforts to make us happy. His company performed professional with the very reasonable pricing. We encountered some small problem with the van transporting us back from nagarkot to kathmandu airport. This van was quite small and it came to pick up quite late that we almost missed the flight to pohkara. We told Tej about this and he must take care of this outsourced van company. Anyway the van in pohkara and to chitwan was excellent , big and comfy. So he has corrected the mistake.
Part 2 was our trek to EBC and chola pass for 21 nights. Tej arranged for flight and guide plus porter. For this trekking it was only me and my wife travelling together. We are about 50 years and used the service of 2 porters cause we bought a lot of dry food plus chocolate. We are difficult persons in terms of foreign food. Our guide Ammer and 2 porters are fabulous. They took care of us very well like we are part of their family.
Overall we strongly recommend this company. They are good and not high expensive tag. We will use their service again in June to trek in Langtang. Rocky
Wisit K
Bangkok, ThailandA great experience on the Annapurna Circuit
We had a fantastic experience on the Annapurna Circuit with Nepal Alternative Treks. Tej, the manager, was helpful, professional and efficient in dealing with our requirements and amendments, the arrangements worked smoothly and the information provided to us was excellent. Our guide Kul was brilliant. He was friendly, knowledgable and experienced and took changes in our itinerary in his stride. Our trekking experience was much better with his help in everything from planning the stages of the route to organising our food and accommodation. Just one warning: he is an ace card player and will probably beat you hands down!
Paul
UKA wonderful and interesting trek overall
A wonderful & interesting trek overall. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances ( heavy snow fall & Lie ping with a bad cold) we were unable to cross the Ganja la pass. However, our guide Simbir offered us as alternative trek which took us on a difference journey of Nepal. We had the opportunity to visit & stay in many local villages and meet Tamang, Gurung people experience, their lifestyle and culture. We visited our guide’s home town of Chalishgaun and timed it right to join in with Diwali celebrations!
Lie Ping Tang & Robert
USAA trip worth of a lifetime!
Attempting Everest base camp trekking for me & my group was taking it to the next level. Before this, our limits were Kedarnath, MadMaheshwar & Tunganath with max distances of 18-19 kms spread over 2-3 days. Moreover, these tracks are such that people doesn’t necessarily have to trek. They have the option of ponies. EBC involves a lot for people like us (acclimatization to altitude, strength etc.), but above all, you need someone to provide logistical support, moral support that it can be done. This is where Nepal Alternative Treks does a great job. They organized it very well, guides and porters provided were very reliable and cost is reasonable when you compare to others. They can customize your travel plan according to your need.
Indranil Chaterjee
IndiaA Trek in Ruby Valley !
A few weeks ago we went on a trip to Nepal, accompanied by a couple of friends who were on their second trip with Nepal Alternative Trek. Our first goal was to trek to the village of Chalish in Ruby Valley. We decided to go with the services of Nepal Alternative Trek to take us up there. We went there partly by jeep, partly walking through the cultivated terraces, meeting the inhabitants of the different communities who worked there.
I must say that the service that Tej offered us was perfect on all lines. First of all, before our departure, months before, Tej always answered our many questions (luggage, temperature, route to be revised, etc.) Always within 24 hours, he answered with a lot of patience.
All the equipment we thought we would need was available at his office.
Our guide Ammar led us to destination with confidence and professionalism. He knew all the trails, and especially all the shortcuts to avoid us having to go up or down too much along our road. He has managed all the difficulties we have encountered: due to personal reasons, we had to change and our itinerary, and our calendar, and he made everything possible. The whole team adapted to our changes. Our guide contacted Tej who orchestrated the changes without us even having to deal with anything.
The porters were attentive and were always in front of our needs.
Our journey continued towards Bandipur with the driver who made us know the various interesting points, from sunrise to sunset, making detours to take us to the most famous places. Then a 2 days stay in Chitwan, and return to Kathmandu again where the driver carried us without calculating from one place to another – God knows that traffic in Kathmandu, Bakhtapur and Patan can be complicated.
Thanks to Tej, and the whole Nepal Alternative Trek team. We will remember forever that amazing experience.
Louise & Richard
Louise & Richard
CanadaAlways cheerful
Many thanks to Tej – well organized, Dhan + hal worked Hard, we could not have done it without there Help, they were always there when needed, worked extra to help us when we were sick. Always kind and cheerful
Thanks!