Trip Fact

Destination

Mustang

Duration

8 Days

Difficulty

Easy to Moderate

Group Size

2-30 Persons

Max altitude

3510m.

Best time

Spring and Autumn

Activities

Overland Tour

Accommodation

Hotel/Teahouse

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Transportation

Private

Start from

Kathmandu/Pokhara

End at

Kathmandu/Pokhara

Upper Mustang Overland Tour overview

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is an 8-day jeep and 4WD adventure into Nepal’s remote Mustang Valley—one of the last places where ancient Tibetan culture still thrives. This remarkable journey takes you through Kagbeni, Ghami, Dhakmar, Ghar Gumba, Lo Manthang, and Muktinath, offering a rare glimpse into centuries-old Himalayan traditions.

Once restricted to outsiders until 1992, Upper Mustang remains one of Nepal’s most culturally preserved regions. With new road access, the area has become a popular destination for overland travelers seeking a blend of dramatic landscapes, deep-rooted Buddhist heritage, sky caves, and high-altitude desert scenery.

Although visiting Lo Manthang’s 5-Story Royal Palace is currently not permitted, the walled city continues to captivate travelers with its monasteries, cave complexes, and timeless way of life. The region reflects the rich culture of the Thakali, Gurung, and Tibetan people, showcasing monasteries, Chhortens, prayer walls, and centuries-old traditions.

The trip begins with a scenic drive or optional flight to Pokhara, followed by a thrilling jeep ride through Jomsom, Kagbeni, and the Upper Mustang restricted region. After exploring Lo Manthang and Chhoser’s ancient caves, the tour continues to Muktinath—a revered pilgrimage site—before returning to Pokhara and Kathmandu.

Adventure Friendship has been organizing the Upper Mustang Overland Jeep Tour for many years, offering customizable itineraries based on your interests and schedule.

Upper Mustang Overland Tour highlights

  • Scenic overland drive through the Kali Gandaki Gorge—the world’s deepest gorge
  • Explore the walled city of Lo Manthang, the former Kingdom of Mustang
  • Visit ancient monasteries including Ghar Gumba—one of Mustang's oldest
  • Witness the dramatic red cliffs of Dhakmar
  • Discover the Sky Caves of Chhoser, including Konchokling and Marzong caves
  • Explore Kagbeni, Marpha, and other picturesque Mustang villages
  • Experience Tibetan-influenced culture, traditions, and Himalayan hospitality
  • Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, a spiritual site for Hindus and Buddhists
  • Breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Mustang’s arid landscapes
  • Comfortable travel in a private 4WD jeep—ideal for travelers with limited time

Upper Mustang Overland Tour itinerary

Enjoy a scenic 7–8 hour drive through lush hills and river valleys with beautiful views of terraced fields and Himalayan landscapes. Optional 25-minute flight available at extra cost.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Distance/Time: 205 km / 7–8 hrs

Begin your Mustang journey with a scenic drive along the Kali Gandaki River, passing Beni, the Gandaki Golden Bridge, Kalopani, and the apple village of Marpha before reaching Kagbeni.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Distance/Time: 161 km / 5–6 hrs

Enter the Upper Mustang restricted area. Visit Ranchung Chungshi Cave, believed to be used by Guru Rinpoche. Continue through traditional villages to Ghiling and finally Ghami.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Distance/Time: 60 km / 5–6 hrs

Visit Dhakmar’s dramatic red cliffs, explore the ancient Ghar Gumba, and continue toward Lo Manthang, the walled capital of Upper Mustang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Distance/Time: 42 km / 4–5 hrs

Explore Lo Manthang’s monasteries, narrow alleys, and cultural sites. Highlights include Champa Lhakang, Namgyal Gompa, and the sky caves of Chhoser (Konchokling & Marzong).

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

Descend toward Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site with 108 water spouts and holy ponds. After exploration, continue to Jomsom, known for apple orchards and Mustang culture.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Distance/Time: 114 km / 6–7 hrs

A scenic drive via Marpha, Kalopani, Tatopani (hot springs), and Beni. Arrive in Pokhara and enjoy lakeside attractions.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel
Distance/Time: 158 km / 7–8 hrs

Return to Kathmandu via scenic mountain highways. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for rest or last-minute shopping.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance/Time: 205 km / 7–8 hrs

Are you interested in planning a custom trip with us? It’s quick, easy, and takes only 2 minutes.

What’s Included

  • Kathmandu–Pokhara–Kathmandu ground transportation (sofa-seated tourist bus)
  • Pokhara–Lo Manthang–Pokhara 4WD Jeep
  • Hotel accommodations: 2 nights in Pokhara & 1 night in Kathmandu (twin sharing, BB plan)
  • Guesthouse accommodations in Upper Mustang (twin sharing)
  • All meals during Upper Mustang tour (B/L/D), except in Pokhara
  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS card
  • Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit
  • English-speaking guide & professional jeep driver
  • Guide/driver expenses (salary, meals, accommodation, insurance)
  • First aid medical kit
  • All government & local taxes

What’s Not Included

  • International flights
  • Nepal visa fee & travel insurance
  • Extra hotel nights in Pokhara (due to early arrival or early return)
  • Hot showers, beverages, and meals outside itinerary in Pokhara
  • Tips for guide and driver (expected)

Interested in this trip? Start planning your adventure today!

Upper Mustang Overland Tour cost & dates

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FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Upper Mustang Overland Tour?

This is an easy-to-moderate overland trip suitable for travelers of all ages. No trekking is required.

Is a special permit required?

Yes. Upper Mustang is a restricted area, and travelers need the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit, ACAP, and TIMS, all of which are included in the package.

What is the best time to visit Upper Mustang?

The best seasons are:

  • Spring (March–May)
  • Autumn (September–November)
    Upper Mustang also receives minimal rainfall, making June–August ideal for monsoon travel.

How are the road conditions?

The route includes gravel, off-road, and rocky terrain. A 4WD jeep ensures safety and comfort.

Can I customize the itinerary?

Yes. Adventure Friendship offers fully customizable itineraries based on your time, interests, and travel style.

Is Lo Manthang Palace open for visitors?

Currently, visitors are not allowed to enter the 5-Story Royal Palace of Lo Manthang.

What accommodation is available in Upper Mustang?

Comfortable guesthouses with basic facilities (twin-sharing rooms, local meals).

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