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The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is a rare and fascinating journey into the former Kingdom of Lo, a hidden trans-Himalayan region lying in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Often called “The Last Forbidden Kingdom”, Upper Mustang remained closed to foreigners until 1992, preserving its ancient Tibetan culture, medieval villages, cave monasteries, and dramatic desert landscapes.

This 13-day overland adventure combines comfortable jeep travel with short hikes, cultural exploration, and visits to sacred monasteries, sky caves, and historic walled cities like Lo Manthang. Travelers experience a striking contrast between lush hills of Pokhara and the barren, wind-carved cliffs of Mustang that resemble the Tibetan plateau.

Operated by Rainbow Adventure & Travel, this tour is carefully designed for travelers who want a deep cultural experience without strenuous trekking, making it ideal for cultural explorers, photographers, and mature travelers seeking a unique Himalayan journey.

Activity
Mustang Region Trek
Duration
13 Days
Difficulty
medium
Start - End
Kathmandu - Kathmandu
Max Altitude
3600m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Mountain Guesthouses
Best Season
Mar-May & Sep-Nov

Upper Mustang Overland Tour – 13 Days Highlights

• Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang
• Discover mysterious sky caves, Luri Cave & Chosar caves
• Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture & monasteries
• Drive through the Kali Gandaki Gorge – world’s deepest gorge
• Scenic overland journey through Nepal’s most restricted region

Outline Itinerary

  • Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
  • Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour (1,400m)
  • Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (910m | 6–7 hrs)
  • Drive from Pokhara to Kagbeni (2,800m | 8–9 hrs)
  • Drive from Kagbeni to Charang (3,500m | 6–7 hrs)
  • Hike from Charang to Luri Cave and return to Charang (3,500m | 4–5 hrs)
  • Drive from Charang to Lo Manthang (3,600m | 3–4 hrs)
  • Explore Chosar Village and Sky Caves, return to Charang (3,500m | 4–5 hrs)
  • Hike from Charang to Ghar Gompa and return to Charang (3,500m | 5–6 hrs)
  • Drive from Charang to Jomsom (2,720m | 8–9 hrs)
  • Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara (910m | 7–8 hrs)
  • Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m | 6–7 hrs)
  • Final Departure from Kathmandu

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in, the remainder of the day is free to relax or explore nearby areas. Kathmandu’s vibrant streets, historic temples, and traditional architecture offer a gentle introduction to Nepal. In the evening, a short briefing will be provided about the Upper Mustang overland journey, route conditions, and cultural expectations.

Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals:
Welcome Dinner
Max Altitude:
1400 M

Day 02: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour (1,400m)

Today is dedicated to guided sightseeing around the Kathmandu Valley. You will explore ancient temples, Buddhist stupas, and historic squares that showcase Nepal’s rich Hindu and Buddhist heritage. Easy walks between monuments allow time to absorb cultural details, architecture, and local life. This day provides valuable cultural context before entering the restricted trans-Himalayan region of Upper Mustang.

Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals:
Breakfast
Max Altitude:
1400 M

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (910m | 6–7 hrs)

After breakfast, travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara on a VIP Sofa Seater Luxury Tourist Bus, offering comfortable seating and scenic views along the highway. The drive follows river valleys, terraced hills, and countryside towns before reaching Pokhara. Upon arrival, enjoy free time by Phewa Lake with views of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre.

Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals:
Breakfast
Max Altitude:
910 M

Day 04: Drive from Pokhara to Kagbeni (2,800m | 8–9 hrs)

Leaving Pokhara, the journey heads north through the Kali Gandaki Valley. The landscape gradually transforms from lush greenery to dry, wind-shaped terrain as you approach the rain-shadow region. Kagbeni is a historic medieval village and the official gateway to Upper Mustang, known for its narrow alleys, monasteries, and strong Tibetan cultural influence.

Accommodation:
Mountain Guesthouse
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude:
2800 M
Walking Distance:
1-2 KM & 8-9 Hrs.

Day 05: Drive from Kagbeni to Charang (3,500m | 6–7 hrs)

Today’s drive takes you deeper into the restricted Upper Mustang region. The route passes colorful cliffs, desert plateaus, and ancient settlements shaped by centuries of Tibetan culture. Charang is one of the most important villages in Mustang, dominated by a large monastery and historic fortress overlooking the valley.

Accommodation:
Mountain Guesthouse
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude:
3500 M
Walking Distance:
1-2 KM & 6-7 Hrs.

Day 06: Hike from Charang to Luri Cave and return to Charang (3,500m | 4–5 hrs)

A scenic hike leads from Charang to the sacred Luri Cave Monastery, hidden within dramatic cliffs. The trail crosses open valleys, chortens, and barren hills typical of the Tibetan plateau. Inside the cave, you’ll discover ancient Buddhist murals and religious artifacts. After exploration, return to Charang for overnight.

Accommodation:
Mountain Guesthouse
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude:
3500 M
Walking Distance:
5-6 KM & 5-6 Hrs.

Day 07: Drive from Charang to Lo Manthang (3,600m | 3–4 hrs)

A short drive brings you to Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of the former Kingdom of Lo. Enclosed by massive walls, the city features royal palaces, monasteries, and traditional mud-brick houses. Afternoon exploration reveals deep-rooted Tibetan Buddhist traditions and a timeless way of life.

Accommodation:
Mountain Guesthouse
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude:
3600 M
Walking Distance:
2-3 KM & 3-4 Hrs.

Day 08: Explore Chosar Village and Sky Caves, return to Charang (3,500m | 4–5 hrs)

Today you explore Chosar Village and its remarkable sky caves carved high into vertical cliffs. These ancient caves once served as meditation chambers, shelters, and burial sites. You will also visit cliff-side monasteries that highlight the ingenuity of early Himalayan civilizations before returning to Charang.

Accommodation:
Mountain Guesthouse
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude:
3500 M
Walking Distance:
4-5 KM & 4-5 Hrs.

Day 09: Hike from Charang to Ghar Gompa and return to Charang (3,500m | 5–6 hrs)

Today’s hike leads to Ghar Gompa, believed to be the oldest monastery in Mustang. The trail passes open valleys and ancient settlements steeped in legend. The monastery’s murals, spiritual significance, and peaceful surroundings make this day one of the most culturally meaningful experiences of the tour.

Accommodation:
Mountain Guesthouse
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max Altitude:
3500 M
Walking Distance:
6-7 KM & 5-6 Hrs.

Day 10: Drive from Charang to Jomsom (2,720m | 8–9 hrs)

The return journey follows the Kali Gandaki Gorge, passing villages such as Samar, Chhusang, and Kagbeni. The scenery gradually changes as altitude decreases and vegetation becomes denser. Jomsom sits in a wide, windswept valley surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks.

Accommodation:
Mountain Guesthouse
Meals:
Breakfast, Linch,Dinner
Max Altitude:
2720 M
Walking Distance:
1-2 KM & 8-9 Hrs.

Day 11: Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara (910m | 7–8 hrs)

Driving south, the barren Mustang landscape slowly gives way to green hills and river valleys. Upon arrival in Pokhara, enjoy free time at Lakeside to relax, shop, or enjoy a peaceful evening after the overland journey.

Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals:
Breakfast
Max Altitude:
910 M

Day 12: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m | 6–7 hrs)

After breakfast, return to Kathmandu on a VIP Sofa Seater Luxury Tourist Bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu, enjoying comfort and scenic countryside views. The evening is free for last-minute shopping or a farewell dinner in the capital.

Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals:
Breakfast
Max Altitude:
1400 M

Day 13: Final Departure from Kathmandu

Final Departure from Kathmandu / Trip Extension
Optional trip extensions available such as Chitwan jungle safari, Pokhara sightseeing, Lumbini tour, mountain flight, or Nagarkot sunrise stay.

What's Included

  • 3-star hotels in Kathmandu (3 nights) & Pokhara (2 nights)
  • Best available guesthouses during Upper Mustang tour
  • Breakfast in Kathmandu & Pokhara
  • Full board meals during Mustang tour
  • Tea/coffee (up to 3 times daily)
  • Seasonal fruits
  • All airport transfers
  • Private jeep for entire Upper Mustang tour
  • Kathmandu–Pokhara–Kathmandu ground transport
  • Licensed English-speaking guide
  • Staff insurance, meals & accommodation
  • First-aid kit & water purification tablets
  • Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Down jacket & sleeping bag (if required)
  • Duffel bag, map & trip completion certificate

What's Not Included

  • Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara
  • International airfare & Nepal visa fee
  • Travel insurance & emergency evacuation
  • Drinks, snacks & personal expenses
  • Wi-Fi, hot showers
  • Tips for guide & driver

General Trek Information

Accommodation

Accommodation is provided in tea houses during the trek and 3-star hotels in Mustang Region Trek.

Meals

Three freshly prepared meals daily during the trek including Dal Bhat, pasta, rice, soups, and vegetables.

Drinking Water

Safe drinking water is provided using filters or purification tablets. Reusable bottles are recommended.

Guide & Porter

Licensed English-speaking guides and local porters ensure safety, navigation, and cultural insights.

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