TRIP DURATION:  18 days

TRIP DATE: May 3rd - May 20th, 2026

GROUP SIZE: 12 paxs

TRIP COST: $5,200/person

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TRIP DETAILS:

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Mustang lies in the North Western part of Nepal, and is home to thriving Buddhist cultures for more than a thousand years. This regal trek takes you to this vibrant Buddhist land where you will find ample opportunities to revitalize yourself. This trans-Himalayan region has harsh geographical features but is endowed with magnificent, geological, cultural and spiritual landscape. The trek follows along the ancient trail of the Kali Gandaki river valley, once an important cross-roads for trans-Asian trade for centuries, it’s also called a heritage path, treaded by great saints and yogis. Along the trail, you will come upon an oases of villages in the midst of barley, buckwheat, and mustard fields reminiscent of early Tibetan medieval civilization.  As you pass by, catch glimpses of spectacular ancient monasteries and temples majestically built on hillocks overlooking each village. As you enter the restricted area, hundreds of Buddhist caves dot the steep gorge walls rising up from the Kali Gandhaki gorge. The trek ends at the three traditional major towns of Ghami, Tsarang and Lo-monthang. These towns are obscured in legends and tales associated with the arrival of great tantric saint, Padmasambhava and yogi, Ngorchen Kunga Sanpo. The famous walled town and capital city of Mustang, Lo-monthang is the culmination of your journey. Being in the walled town, a religious domain, may make you feel as if all your worldly sufferings momentarily comes to a standstill, as you regain your spiritual comfort.

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While in villages and in towns, you will have Thomas Kelly and our local tour guides at your disposal. They will enlighten you on the history, culture and tradition of the region. There are numerous living heritages you will come across in these major towns adorned with exquisite wall paintings, old thankas and manuscripts in silver and gold. To the north of Lo-monthang, you will go on a day trip to Tsoshar, a cave village where monasteries exists in a traditional setting. Your tour guide will familiarize you with the rudiments of Tibetan traditional medicines as you meet with local Tibetan doctors, amchis and local artisans and craftsmen.

This is the land of mysticism and spirituality blessed by the great saint and yogi Padmasambhava and successive religious kings of Mustang. Should you want to see for yourself this spiritual land of Shangri-La, come join us on this regal journey to the Land of the Last Forbidden Kingdom.

 

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:

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• Exploring the Forbidden Kingdom of Mustang

• Witnessing the walled city of Lomanthang

• Witnessing the 15th century Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen monastery, through the eyes of  Lama Khentse.

• Visiting the oldest monastery of the region, Lo Gekar dating back to 8th century.

Trip guided by  https://www. thomaslkellyphotos.com   who has deep insight from the reconstruction project in Thubchen, Jampa Lhakhang monastery and conservation of cultural heritage in Upper Mustang.

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ACCOMODATIONS:

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Kathmandu and Pokhara – Hotels

While on the trek – Using local traditional tea houses

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WHAT THE PRICE INCLUDES:

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• Breakfast while in Kathmandu and Pokhara

• All meals during the trek (Jomsom to Jomsom)

• Accomodation in Pokhara and Kathmandu and during the entire period of the trek

• Airport transfers

• Expert bilingual guide

• Fight Kathmandu/Pokhara/Jomsom/Pokhara/Kathmandu valued at US$499

• Special permit to Upper Mustang US$550

• Group medical kit

• Good quality accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin sharing basis

• Souvenir Mustang Adventure Trek duffle bag

• Private transportation

• All park entrance fees

• Porters or mules to carry all personal and group equipment

• Porter's insurance

• Sightseeing in Kathmandu

• Site entry fees

• Trip accompanied by Thomas L. Kelly https://www. thomaslkellyphotos.com 

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WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:

 

• Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara

• Bottled water, aerated & alcoholic drinks

• Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc.

• Tips to the staffs at the end of the trek

• International flights

• Airport and departure taxes

• Visa

• Travel Insurance

• Monastery entrance fees

• Entrance fee for the festival

    

* Please allow US$50 for monastery visits and donations in Upper Mustang

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ITINERARY:

 

DAY 1 : 3rd May, Sunday -> Arrive to Kathmandu

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal’s bustling capital city situated in the Kathmandu Valley. Transfer to Domaling Hotel in Boudha where you’ll spend your first night acclimatizing to the time zone and preparing for the adventure ahead. Kathmandu sits at a comfortable elevation of 1,400 meters, providing a gentle introduction to the higher altitudes you’ll encounter in the coming days. Take time to rest and explore the nearby magnificent stupa. 

Meals: Nil

Elevation: 1,400m/4,593ft

 

DAY 2 : 4th May, Monday -> Kathmandu Exploration and Trek Briefing

Embark on a comprehensive tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, including visits to ancient temples, stupas, and palaces that showcase Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. Explore the Buddhist Boudhanath Stupa between 6:00 to 9:00am joining hundreds of Buddhist pilgrims circumambulating the stuppa. Then head south to the Hindu complex of Pashupatinath located on the banks of the Bagmati river.

In the late afternoon attend a detailed briefing session about your upcoming Upper Mustang expedition at your hotel covering safety protocols, cultural sensitivity guidelines, horse riding techniques, and what to expect in the high-altitude desert landscape of the trans-Himalayan region.
Meals: (B,L,D) Domaling Hotel

Elevation: 1,400m/4,593ft

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DAY 3 : 5th May, Tuesday ->  Flight to Pokhara 

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Take a scenic 25-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, descending to 820 meters above sea level. Pokhara, known as the gateway to the Annapurna region, offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks including Machapuchare (Fishtail) and Annapurna ranges. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this
lakeside city. Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps taking a boat ride on Phewa Lake or exploring the vibrant Lakeside area. This lower elevation provides a comfortable rest before tomorrow’s significant altitude gain.

Meals: (B,L,D) Temple Tree Hotel

Elevation: 820m/2,690ft

 

DAY 4 : 6th May, Wednesday -> Flight to Jomsom and Journey to Kagbeni 

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Experience one of the world’s most spectacular mountain flights as you soar from Pokhara to Jomsom Airport, gaining nearly 2,000 meters in elevation to reach 2,743 meters. The 20-minute flight through the deepest gorge in the world (Kali Gandaki Gorge) offers breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs. Upon landing in the windy town of Jomsom, drive to visit the ancient Kutsab Ternga monastery and explore Lubrak village, one of the last remaining Bon villages where the pre-Buddhist Bon religion is still practiced. Continue to Muktinath a Hindu power spot then descend to the medieval fortress town of Kagbeni (2,800m), strategically located at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Jhong rivers.

Overnight in this ancient trading post that once served as a gateway to Tibet. Spend the evening wandering through narrow alleys lined with traditional flat-roofed houses built from local stone and mudbricks.

Meals: (B,L,D) Lodge in Kagbeni

Elevation: Jomsom-> 2,743m/9,000ft | Kagbeni-> 2,800m/9,186ft

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DAY 5 : 7th May, Thursday -> Begin Horse Trek: Kagbeni to Tsele

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Today marks the beginning of your horseback adventure through the mystical Upper Mustang region. Mount your Mustang horses and begin riding along the ancient Kali Gandaki riverbed, following traditional salt trading routes used for centuries. The landscape transforms dramatically as you enter the rain shadow area of the Himalayas, revealing a stark, desert-like terrain reminiscent of the Tibetan plateau. Visit Gompa Gang monastery in Tsuksang village, recently renovated to showcase exquisite Tibetan Buddhist architecture, intricate wall murals depicting Buddhist deities and teachings, and ancient artifacts. The monastery offers insights into the spiritual practices of this remote region. Ascend gradually to Tsele (3,100m), where you’ll overnight, gaining 300 meters in elevation while your body continues to acclimatize to the thinning air.

Meals: (B,L,D,) Camping or lodge in Chele

Elevation: Tsele-> 3,100m/10,171ft

 

DAY 6 : 8th May, Friday -> Horseback Journey: Tsele to Samar 

Continue your equestrian journey through the otherworldly landscape of Upper Mustang, riding through the small, remarkably preserved village of Gyakar. This settlement represents one of the most intact traditional villages in the region, with ancient architecture that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. The houses feature typical Mustang construction with flat roofs, whitewashed walls, and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the constant wind.
Arrive in Samar village (3,520m), experiencing a notable elevation gain of 420 meters from your previous night’s accommodation. Samar, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and barren hills painted in hues of red, brown, and gold, provides stunning examples of the geological formations that make Upper Mustang unique. The village offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and distant snow-capped peaks.
Meals: (B,L,D) Camping or lodge

Samar-> 3,520m/11,549ft

 

DAY 7 : 9th May, Saturday -> Exploration Day: Samar to Ghilling 

Embark on a culturally rich day as you ride to the ancient settlement of Ghilling village (3,570m), ascending a modest 50 meters from Samar. The highlight of today’s journey is the visit to Chungshirangjong cave monastery, an extraordinary 8th-century religious site carved into the cliff face.

This ancient hermitage represents some of the earliest Buddhist practices in the region and contains self emanated deities. In the afternoon, explore Ghilling’s own monastery, learning about the daily lives of the resident monks and the important role these religious centers play in preserving Tibetan Buddhist culture in this isolated region. The village itself showcases traditional Mustang architecture with its characteristic flat-roofed buildings and narrow alleys.
B,L,D, camping or lodge 

Elevation: Ghilling-> 3,570m/11,713ft

 

DAY 8 : 10th May, Sunday -> Scenic Ride: Ghilling to Dakmar 

Today’s journey takes you to the spectacular cliff village of Dakmar (3,820m), ascending 250 meters through increasingly dramatic terrain. Dakmar is renowned for its unique red cliffs and numerous sacred sites attributed to Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the revered 8th-century Buddhist master who brought Buddhism to Tibet. The village’s name literally means “red cliff” in Tibetan, referring to the distinctive red-colored rock formations that dominate the landscape. These geological formations create a striking contrast against the deep blue sky typical of high-altitude environments. Explore the various caves, meditation sites, and ancient inscriptions that mark this area as particularly sacred in Tibetan Buddhist tradition. The village offers spectacular sunset views over the surrounding valleys and distant peaks.
Meals: (B,L,D)- Camp or Lodge

Elevation: Dakmar-> 3,820m/12,533ft

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DAY 9 : 11th May, Monday ->  Cultural Immersion: Dakmar to Tsarang 

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Descend slightly to the historically significant village of Tsarang (3,560m), losing 260 meters in elevation while gaining immense cultural wealth. Tsarang served as the former capital of the Upper Mustang region and retains much of its royal heritage through its imposing old palace complex. Meet with local monks and nuns who maintain the spiritual traditions of this ancient center of power and religion. Visit the village’s important monasteries, which house priceless manuscripts, thangka paintings, and ritual objects that have been preserved for centuries. A unique highlight includes
meeting with a traditional local healer who practices ancient Tibetan medicine, using herbs and minerals found in the surrounding high-altitude environment. The healer can demonstrate diagnostic techniques and treatment methodsthat have been passed down through generations in this isolated region.
Meals: B,L,D. Camp or Lodge 

Elevation: Tsarang-> 3,560m/11,680ft

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DAY 10 : 12th May, Tuesday -> Scenic Transit: Tsarang to Ghara 

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Continue your horseback journey to the village of Ghara (3,650m), ascending 90 meters through some of the most spectacular and varied landscapes Upper Mustang has to offer. The route provides constantly changing scenery as you traverse ancient riverbeds, cross high desert plateaus, and navigate between towering cliff formations sculpted
by millennia of wind and weather. Pass through several smaller settlements where you can observe the traditional lifestyle of Mustang’s inhabitants, who have adapted remarkably to life in this high-altitude desert environment. The landscape reveals geological layers spanning millions of years, with rock formations displaying vibrant colors from deep red to pale yellow and stark white. Wildlife sightings may include blue sheep, Himalayan griffons, and various high-altitude bird species adapted to this harsh but beautiful environment.

Meals: (B,L,D) camping or Lodge

Elevation: Ghara-> 3,650m/11,975ft

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DAY 11 : 13th May, Wednesday ->Monastery Exploration: Ghara to Dhi Village 

Today features two remarkable monastery visits that showcase the rich spiritual heritage of Upper Mustang. First, explore the extraordinary Luri cave monastery, dating back to the 14th century and containing some of the finest preserved Buddhist artwork in the region. This cliffside monastery features intricate murals, ancient sculptures, and
meditation chambers that have sheltered Buddhist practitioners for over 700 years. Continue to Tashi Kabum, another spectacular cave monastery renowned for its exceptional paintings depicting Buddhist deities, mandala designs, and scenes from Buddhist scriptures. The monastery also contains an ancient stupa and sacred relics. Descend to overnight in Dhi village (3,410m), experiencing a welcome drop of 240 meters in elevation. The village provides stunning views of the surrounding valleys and serves as a peaceful base for tomorrow’s journey to the capital of Upper Mustang.
Meals: (B,L,D) Camping 

Elevation: Dhi-> 3,410m/11,188ft

 

DAY 12 : 14th May, Thursday ->Festival Beginning: Dhi to Lo Manthang

Rise early for the significant ascent to Lo Manthang (3,809m), the legendary walled capital of Upper Mustang, gaining 399 meters in elevation. This ancient city, often called the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” has remained virtually unchanged since the 15th century. Your arrival coincides with the first day of the spectacular Teji Festival, a three-day mask dance celebration by monks that combines ancient Tibetan traditions with local customs unique to Upper Mustang. The festival begins in the afternoon with ceremonial preparations, traditional music, and the gathering of villagers in colorful traditional dress. Lo Manthang itself is a marvel of medieval urban planning, completely enclosed by high walls and containing a royal palace, several important monasteries, and traditional homes that have housed the same families for generations. The atmosphere during festival time is electric with anticipation and spiritual
energy.
Meals: (B,L,D) Lodge or Hotel

Elevation: Lo Manthang-> 3,809m/12,497ft

 

DAY 13 : 15th May, Friday ->  Festival Immersion: Lo Manthang Exploration

Spend a full day exploring the architectural and cultural treasures within Lo Manthang’s ancient walls while participating in the second day of the Teji Festival. Visit the three main monasteries within the city: Jampa Lhakhang (dating to 1447), Thubchen Gompa with its impressive assembly hall and Chyodi Gompa. Each monastery houses
invaluable collections of ancient manuscripts, statues, thangka paintings, and ritual objects that represent centuries of preserved Tibetan Buddhist culture. The festival continues with traditional masked dances (Cham dances), religious ceremonies conducted by monks in elaborate costumes, and community celebrations that provide rare insights into living Tibetan culture. Interact with the King of Mustang’s family and local nobility who still maintain their traditional roles in this unique society. The combination of architectural splendor, spiritual significance, and living cultural traditions makes this day particularly memorable. Meet the amchi of Lomanthang and discuss about Tibetan medicine healing.He is also the royal astrologer and healer. Possible to engage in a lecture about the Snow Leopard.
Meals: (B,L,D) Lodge or Hotel

Elevation: 3,809m/12,497ft

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DAY 14 : 16th May, Saturday -> Northern Exploration and Festival Finale: Choser and Lo Manthang

Begin the day with an exploration of Choser (3,850m), the northernmost village accessible in the Upper Mustang region.This remote settlement offers incredible views toward the Tibetan border and contains ancient monasteries and cave complexes carved into dramatic cliff faces. The caves serve as meditation retreats and storage sites for sacred texts and artifacts. Archaeological evidence suggests continuous habitation of this area for over a thousand years. Return to Lo Manthang in the afternoon to witness the grand finale of the Teji Festival. The final day features the most elaborate ceremonies, including the spectacular “horse dancing” performances, community feasts, and traditional games that bring together people from surrounding villages. The festival culminates with religious blessings and the distribution of blessed barley as symbols of prosperity for the coming year.

Meals: (B,L,D) Lodge or Hotel

Elevation: Choser-> 3,850m/12,631ft

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DAY 15 : 17th May, Sunday -> Sacred Site Visit: Lo Manthang to Tsarang via Lo Gekar

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Today’s journey includes a visit to the nomadic people and yaks and most sacred historically significant monastery in all of Upper Mustang: Lo Gekar Gompa (3,950m), reaching the trek’s highest elevation at 12,959 feet. This extraordinary 8th-century monastery, established by the great Buddhist master Guru Rinpoche himself, represents
the oldest continuously operating monastery in the Upper Mustang region. The gompa contains ancient murals, statues, and manuscripts of immense historical and religious value, some dating back over 1,200 years. The monastery's location provides commanding views of the surrounding landscape and serves as a powerful reminder of
Buddhism’s early establishment in this remote corner of the Himalayas. After this profound spiritual experience, descend significantly to Tsarang (3,560m), dropping 390 meters in elevation and returning to the comfort of this former royal capital for overnight accommodation.
Meals:  (B,L,D) Lodge

Elevation: Lo Gekar-> 3,950m/12,959ft (Nomadic people) |Tsarang-> 3,560m/11,680ft

DAY 16 : 18th May, Monday -> Return Journey: Tsarang to Jomsom

Begin your return journey to lower elevations, driving from Tsarang back to Jomsom (2,743m), descending 817 meters and feeling the immediate effects of thicker air and warmer temperatures. The drive provides opportunities to reflect on the incredible cultural and spiritual experiences of the past week while reacquainting yourself with the relatively bustling environment of Jomsom. This transition day allows your body to readjust to lower altitudes while you process the memories of ancient monasteries, traditional festivals, and the timeless landscape of Upper Mustang. Jomsom, with its airport, lodges, and restaurants, feels almost cosmopolitan after days in the remote
medieval villages of the upper region. Enjoy a comfortable night’s rest in preparation for tomorrow’s return to Kathmandu.
Meals: (B,L,D) Lodge or Hotel

Elevation: Jomsom -> 2,743m/9,000ft

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DAY 17: 19th May, Tuesday ->  Return Flight: Jomsom to Kathmandu via Pokhara 

Take the morning flight from Jomsom back to Pokhara (820m), then continue with a connecting flight to Kathmandu (1,400m). The flights provide spectacular final views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, offering a aerial perspective of the incredible terrain you’ve just explored on horseback. The descent from nearly 3,000 meters to 1,400 meters marks your return to the modern world, though the memories and experiences of Upper Mustang’s ancient culture will remain with you permanently. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the luxury of hot showers, diverse cuisine, and the conveniences of city life after your transformative journey through one of the world’s last remaining medieval kingdoms.
Meals: (B,L,D)  Domaling Hotel 

Elevation: Pokhara -> 820m/2,690ft | Kathmandu -> 1,400m/4,593ft

 

DAY 18 : 20th May, Wednesday -> International departure

 

Conclude your extraordinary Upper Mustang adventure with your international departure from Kathmandu. Take with you not only photographs and souvenirs, but profound memories of a place where ancient Tibetan culture continues to thrive, where horses still serve as the primary means of transportation, and where medieval monasteries preserve centuries of Buddhist wisdom and art. The experience of riding through this “Last Forbidden Kingdom” provides insights into a way of life that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries, offering a rare glimpse into humanity’s
historical past while highlighting the importance of preserving such unique cultural treasures.
Meals: Nil

Elevation: 1,400m/4,593ft

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TREK SUMMARY:

• Starting Elevation: 1,400m (Kathmandu)
• Minimum Elevation: 820m (Pokhara)
• Maximum Elevation: 3,950m (Lo Gekar Monastery)
• Primary Trekking Range: 2,800m - 3,850m
• Total Elevation Gain: Approximately 2,550m from lowest to highest point
• Average Daily Elevation: 3,400m during horse trekking portion
           
IMPORTANT NOTES:

 

•  Acclimatization: The gradual ascent profile helps minimize altitude-related issues

•  Climate: High-altitude desert climate with extreme temperature variations

•  Cultural Sensitivity: Upper Mustang is a restricted area requiring special permits

•  Physical Demands: Moderate to challenging due to altitude and horseback riding

• Average daily horse ride per day - 4-5 hours with a bit of walking downhill.