A JOURNEY TO THE FORBIDDEN KINGDOM OF MUSTANG

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Uncover one of Nepal’s most extraordinary and lesser explored regions on this immersive 11 day journey to Upper Mustang a land of stark beauty, ancient traditions, and deep spiritual heritage. Once a restricted kingdom, Mustang remains one of the last places where authentic Tibetan culture has been preserved in its purest form, set against a dramatic backdrop of desert like Himalayan landscapes.

Your journey begins in the bustling capital of Kathmandu, where you’ll explore a rich tapestry of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Discover ancient temples, sacred stupas, and historic city squares that reflect Nepal’s vibrant cultural and spiritual identity. A visit to the beautifully preserved city of Bhaktapur offers a deeper glimpse into traditional Newar life, with its timeless architecture, intricate craftsmanship, and living heritage.

From here, fly to the picturesque lakeside city of Pokhara, where your Himalayan adventure begins. Surrounded by snowcapped peaks, Pokhara serves as the gateway to Mustang. Leaving the green hills behind, embark on a spectacular overland journey into the trans-Himalayan region, following the world’s deepest gorge carved by the “Kali Gandaki River.”

As you ascend into Upper Mustang, the landscape transforms dramatically into a rugged, arid terrain of wind carved cliffs, vast valleys, and ancient cave dwellings. Arrive in the charming village of Kagbeni, a gateway to the forbid-den kingdom, before continuing to the legendary Lo Manthang, a centuries old walled city that once served as the royal capital of Mustang.

Here, step back in time as you explore ancient monasteries, royal palaces, and sacred sites, where centuries-old Buddhist traditions are still practiced. Visit remote villages, interact with local communities, and witness a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations. The region’s unique blend of culture, history, and landscape makes it one of the most fascinating destinations in the Himalayas.

The journey also includes a contrasting experience in the lush lowlands of “Chitwan National Park”, where you’ll embark on exciting wildlife safaris in search of rare species such as the one horned rhinoceros, deer, crocodiles, and exotic birdlife. This adds a rich natural dimension to your adventure, balancing the stark beauty of Mustang with vibrant jungle ecosystems.

“A unique Himalayan journey blending rich culture, stunning landscapes, wildlife, and comfortable travel perfect for experiencing Nepal’s hidden kingdom without strenuous trekking.”

Tour Highlights

Forbidden Kingdom of Lo ManthangExplore the Forbidden Kingdom of Lo Manthang

Discover the ancient walled capital, royal palace, and centuries-old monasteries in Nepal’s restricted Upper Mustang region.

Himalayan Desert LandscapesDramatic Himalayan Desert Landscapes

Travel through the spectacular Kali Gandaki Valley, colorful cliffs, deep canyons, and unique trans-Himalayan terrain.

Kathmandu & BhaktapurUNESCO Heritage & Cultural Tours in Kathmandu & Bhaktapur

Explore medieval durbar squares, sacred temples, and traditional Newari architecture.

Overland Adventure via PokharaScenic Himalayan Flight & Overland Adventure via Pokhara

Enjoy breathtaking mountain views followed by an adventurous drive into the heart of Mustang.

Dumba LakeVisit Sacred Dumba Lake

Experience the serene beauty of this high-altitude turquoise lake surrounded by dramatic Himalayan scenery.

Wildlife Safari in Chitwan National ParkWildlife Safari in Chitwan National Park

Spot one-horned rhinoceros, crocodiles, exotic birdlife, and possibly the Bengal tiger.

Authentic Tibetan-Influenced Culture in KagbeniAuthentic Tibetan-Influenced Culture in Kagbeni

Wander through ancient alleyways and traditional mud-brick villages rich in Himalayan heritage..

Traditional Nepali Farewell DinnerTraditional Nepali Farewell Dinner

Celebrate your journey with authentic cuisine and cultural performances on your final evening.

  • Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel.
  • After check-in, enjoy a short briefing about your upcoming Upper Mustang adventure. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the lively streets nearby.
  • Overnight in Kathmandu
  • After breakfast, embark on a guided cultural tour of Kathmandu Valley’s UNESCO heritage treasures.
    1. Visit the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath Temple
    2. Explore the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa
    3. Discover the ancient palace square of Patan Durbar Square
  • Experience rich Newari architecture, traditional craftsmanship, and living heritage that dates back centuries.
  • Overnight in Kathmandu
  • Early morning scenic flight to Pokhara with breathtaking Himalayan views. Upon arrival, begin an adventurous drive along the Kali Gandaki River valley.
  • Drive through:
    1. Beni
    2. Tatopani
    3. Jomsom
  • Continue to the medieval village of Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang
  • Explore its ancient alleys, monasteries, and traditional mud-brick houses.
  • Overnight in Chagrin
  • Today’s drive takes you deeper into the restricted Upper Mustang region
  • The landscape transforms into dramatic desert-like cliffs, red canyons, and eroded rock formations.
  • Pass through traditional villages like:
    1. Chele
    2. Syangboche
    3. Ghami
  • Arrive in the walled capital of Lo Manthang, once the seat of the Mustang Kingdom.
  • Explore the ancient royal palace and monasteries.
  • Overnight in Lo Manthang
  • Spend a full day exploring this fascinating medieval town.
  • Visit:
    1. Jampa Monastery
    2. Thubchen Monastery
    3. Chode Monastery
  • Optional excursion to nearby caves and villages that preserve centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
  • Overnight in Lo Manthang
  • After breakfast, drive towards the serene Dumba Lake, a sacred turquoise lake surrounded by dramatic Himalayan scenery.
  • Continue descending through the Kali Gandaki valley to Kalopani, a beautiful village offering stunning views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
  • Overnight in Kalopani
  • Enjoy a scenic drive back to Pokhara along the world’s deepest gorge. Upon arrival, relax by Phewa Lake or explore the lakeside area.
  • Overnight in Pokhara
  • After breakfast, drive to Chitwan National Park, Nepal’s premier wildlife destination.
  • Upon arrival, receive a jungle briefing and enjoy activities such as:
    1. Village walk
    2. Sunset by the Rapti River
    3. Cultural Tharu dance performance
  • Overnight in Chitwan
  • Full day of jungle adventures including:
    1. Canoe ride
    2. Jungle safari (Jeep or elephant safari)
    3. Bird watching
    4. Nature walk with expert guides
  • You may spot one-horned rhinoceros, deer, crocodiles, and if lucky, the Royal Bengal tiger.
  • Overnight in Chitwan
  • breakfast, fly back to Kathmandu.
  • The rest of the day is free for relaxation or shopping in Thamel — famous for handicrafts, trekking gear, pashmina, singing bowls, and souvenirs.
  • Overnight in Kathmandu
  • visit to the beautifully preserved medieval city of Bhaktapur.
  • Explore:
    1. Bhaktapur Durbar Square
    2. Nyatapola Temple
    3. 55-Window Palace
  • Return to Kathmandu in the afternoon.
  • In the evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner with traditional Nepali cuisine and cultural performances.
  • Departure or Extended Stay Options Available.

Hotel Maya Manor

Hotel Maya Manor, Kathmandu

Hotel Kailash

Hotel Kailash, Pokhara

Machan Villa

Machan Villa, Chitwan

Machan Villa

Machan Villa, Chitwan

Trekking Lodge

Trekking Lodge

Visa requirement

Visa is the first requirement before you enter Nepal, which you can obtain at Kathmandu airport on arrival or you can also get it in your country of destination from Nepalese Embassy or consulate offices. Or you can apply online also from the website of immigration department of Nepal under the link. https://online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/tourist-visa We would recommend you to obtain visa either online in advance to avoid long queue at the airport. To obtain on arrival visa you required a valid passport and one passport -size photo with a light background. Credit cards are not accepted as payment of visa fee. No On arrival visa for country list -

AFG,IRQ,CMR,GHA,SOM,SWZ,PSE,ZWE,NGA,ETH,LBR

Visa Facility Duration Fee:

  • Multiple entries 15 days - US$ 25 or equivalent convertible currency
  • Multiple entries 30 days - US$ 40 or equivalent convertible currency
  • Multiple entries 90 days - US$ 100 or equivalent convertible currency
  • For more in details and current updates please visit the link below directly:

http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np

Travel insurance is necessary

Adequate security gives you therapeutic incorporation in case you turn out to be sick or break your leg at the mountain, your camera overflowing with epic ascending shots is hurt or stolen, your flights are dropped, or you end up included with a disastrous occasion. It's an assurance against potential issues that develop when you're all over the place, and can secure your life. Your own adequate travel insurance ought to be purchased at the time your finalise your booking. This is a mandatory requirement for travel. Sufficient provision that covers personal accidents, death, medical costs and emergency repatriation should all be included under your policy. We would recommend a minimum coverage of 0,000 for each of the aforementioned categories. Your policy will also ideally cover you in cases of cancellations, curtailments, loss of luggage and any personal liabilities that may occur. It is a requirement that you provide proof of sufficient travel insurance.

Clothing

From April to the end of October, it is warm in Kathmandu. In Nepal clothing for traveling purpose should be comfortable and light. You can also wear longer shorts provided that it is weather- friendly. In the months of November to the end of March, days are usually warm and evenings are cool. Put on your summer clothes during the day time but in the evening and night it is advisable to carry a light jacket. Winter season starts from December to February. One must be equipped with sufficient winter wears like jackets, sweaters, trousers etc to stay protected from the cold.

Health & safety in Nepal

Drinking water is very important factor to be safe and prevent from infectious diseases in Nepal. We recommend you only to drink bottled mineral water, which is available in every hotel and shops. If you are traveling in rural areas, like going for trekking, carry iodine tablets with you. Consult your GP or travel health clinic well before departure to check on recommended vaccinations, which may include typhoid and hepatitis A, plus meningitis if trekking to outlying areas. Malaria is present below 1,200m; consider taking antimalarials. In town, stick to bottled water. Take water-purifying tablets with you if you’re trekking or heading off the beaten track.

Altitude sickness

The air pressure is lower as we go higher, that means thinner air, you will be breathing also less oxygen. Same thing happens, when you are trekking in Himalayas above 2000 meter you are breathing less oxygen and there is always danger of having altitude sickness. But it is not for everybody, it also depends on each and everybody’s physical condition. Altitude starts to effect us from 2,000 metres upwards. it is also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), If trekking at high altitude take precautions to avoid AMS. Make sure you are physically fit, acclimatise to the altitude slowly, eat high-carb meals and drink plenty of water.

AMS is actually more common in fit young men because they are more likely to attempt a rapid ascent by racing up the mountain. It is more safer and enjoyable by planning a sensible itinerary that allows for gradual acclimatisation to altitude as you ascend, but you can back down as fast as you like! If you are not feeling well above 2,500 m, it may be AMS until proven otherwise.

Early symptoms of AMS include:

  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue on minimal exertion
  • Dizziness

What to do if you have AMS?

  • Don’t go higher, rest, drink fluids (not alcohol).
  • If symptoms get worse, immediately descend with a friend.
  • If symptoms fully go away, go up.
  • Consider taking Acetazolamide (Diamox 250 mg twice a day).

You’ll spend your nights in teahouses / Local guest house

In Nepal Teahouse trekking is the most popular form of arrangement which allows trekkers to stay at local lodge and have wholesome foods. The guest houses offer basic twin bed accommodation. It is cold in the night, we would recommend you to bring your own sleeping bag, if you do not have one, we can also provide you.There are only common bathroom and toilet which you have to share with other tourists and they have sometime hot shower.. This type of local lodges are mostly available in most popular trekking routes like – Annapurna, Mustang, Everest and Langtang areas. You will be carrying all your clothing gears along with you depending on the season but in case if you want to buy or hire any trekking items in Kathmandu or Pokhara. There are lots of trekking stores across Kathmandu and in the main streets of Pokhara.

Trekking Gear that you should bring:

  • Waterproof hiking boots (worn in)
  • Waterproof backpack cover and dry bag
  • A warm sleeping bag
  • Rain coat or Jacket
  • Warm Jacket
  • Water purification tablets
  • Altitude sickness tablets
  • Beanie
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Bandaids
  • First aid kit
  • Thermals
  • Hat
  • Warm sleeping bag
  • Warm socks (several pairs)
  • Torch and batteries
  • Snacks
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Gloves and scarf (depending on season and altitude)

Best Time To Trek In Nepal

The best season go for Trekking in Nepal is from the mid of September to mid of December and from late February through to June consider ever best season of trekking in Himalayas. During this period of months have pleasant climate condition not so hot and cold and visibility of mountain are crystal clear. In these months in trekking areas temperatures is stable in the morning 10 to 12 Celsius and during the day 15 to 20 Celsius depending on the Months. Most important thing is there will be less chance of rain, skies are often clear, providing great vistas of the Himalayas.

June, July and August months are main rainy season in Nepal and involves monsoon with heavy rainfall which makes trekking conditions unfavourable. It is cold in the winter months in December and January generally, the days are clear in winter season in Nepal. In winter season in Nepal is usually snow fall in the higher elevations above 5000m. with risk winds and colder temperatures. Therefore, it is ideal for trekking in the lower elevation.

Nepali customs

Nepal is a Hindu dominated religious nation, when visiting its religious places, you should pay an attention. Because some holy Hindu temples are strictly accessible for the Hindus only so, ensure you read the display board before you enter the site or ask near by some one and always explore clockwise around temples. Always ask before you capture religious temples and peoples in your camera, so that you do not offend the peoples feeling and also in terms of respect to the peoples and their culture. By the way expel your shoes when entering those sites or a neighbourhood's home. Shoes are supposed to be containing dirts and leather wears are not allowed inside the temple.

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Trip Facts

Trip Duration : 11 Days
Highest Altitude : 3,840 meters (12,598 ft) at Lo Manthang m.
Difficulty : Moderate
Season : March – May (Spring) September – November (Autumn)
Activity : Nepal Tour
Group Size: Maximum 8 Travelers pax
Transportation: Domestic Flights and private vehicle
Accommodation : 3 star hotels and best guesthouses in Upper Mustang tours Meals : Breakfast at Kathmandu and Pokhara, at Chitwan and Mustang full board.
Meals:
Start-End : -
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