Trip Overview

The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour offers an unparalleled adventure through one of Nepal's most remote and culturally rich regions. Nestled beyond the Himalayan rainshadow, Upper Mustang is accessible almost year-round, with the best times being spring (March-April-May) and autumn (September-October-November). This unique tour takes you through stunning landscapes to the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, allowing you to immerse yourself in Tibetan culture, visit historic monasteries, and explore significant archaeological sites.

For the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour, we provide well-equipped off-road vehicles, such as Scorpio jeeps and luxurious Land Cruisers, featuring 4WD systems to safely navigate the rugged terrain. To embark on this journey, you'll need two essential permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and a special permit for the Upper Mustang Controlled Region. The special permit requires a minimum of two people and costs 500 USD per person. While the tour may seem expensive, the extraordinary cultural experiences, breathtaking scenery, and the adventure of traversing one of Nepal's most restricted areas make it a truly worthwhile endeavour.

Best Time/Season for Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

For the best Nepal tour experience, consider visiting during spring (May to September) and autumn (October to November). However, unlike many other regions, Upper Mustang is also welcoming in mid-monsoon due to its location in the Himalayan rainshadow area. While Mustang is accessible almost year-round, it is best avoided in mid-winter (January-February) due to heavy snowfall.

Guide for Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

A knowledgeable guide will highlight the major attractions of the Upper Mustang region, manage accommodations, handle food arrangements, and ensure you make the most of your tour.

Transport/Vehicle/Driver for Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

We primarily use two types of off-road jeeps for the Upper Mustang tours: Scorpio jeeps and luxurious Land Cruisers. Both are equipped with a 4WD driving system, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey through rugged terrain.

Permits for Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

To explore the hidden gem of Upper Mustang, you'll need two mandatory permits:

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit
  • Special Permit for the Upper Mustang Controlled Region

A minimum of two people is required to obtain the special permit, which costs 500 USD per person. While the tour and trek in Upper Mustang can be pricey, the unique experience and stunning landscapes make it worthwhile.

Duration 9 Days
Level Moderate
Altitude Height 3960m
Group Size 2-12

Trip Highlights

  • Rich Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture by visiting ancient caves, historic monasteries, and significant archaeological sites in the Upper Mustang.
  • Time-Efficient Adventure: Perfect for travellers with limited time, offering a comprehensive yet concise exploration of one of Nepal's most restricted and captivating regions.
  • Scenic and Unique Drive: Experience an exceptional journey through the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas to the once-inaccessible walled city of Lo Manthang.
  • Historical Exploration: Discover the fascinating history of Upper Mustang, including its role as a refuge for Khampa guerrillas during China's control over Tibet.
Group Size
Price Per Person

Itenerary

Day 1 :

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (6-7 hours)

Begin your road trip through the scenic Prithvi Highway, with stops for snacks and lunch along the Trishuli River valley. Arrive in Pokhara and transfer to your hotel located at Lakeside, a vibrant area with plenty of evening entertainment.

Max Height: 800m.
Meals: Excluded
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 2 :

Drive from Pokhara to Marpha (7 hours)

Enjoy a picturesque drive through the Kali Gandaki River valley, passing through Beni and the Rupse Waterfalls. Enter the Mustang region from Ghasa and continue through Lete, Kobang, and Tukuche before arriving in Marpha.

Max Height: 2670m
Meals: BLD (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 3 :

Marpha to Muktinath, and Kagbeni

Explore the historic Marpha Thakali Village, renowned for its apple farming and famous Apple Brandy. Visit the nearby apple gardens, then drive to Dhumba Lake and Monastery. Afterwards, continue your journey to Muktinath via Jomsom. Explore the sacred Muktinath Temple and its surroundings, then drive down to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. Overnight stay in Kagbeni.

Max Height: 2804m
Meals: BLD (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 4 :

Kagbeni to Tsarang

In the morning, explore the ancient Kagbeni Village and Monastery. After breakfast, drive to Tsarang. Along the way, visit the Tungsi Cave, believed to be a meditation site for Guru Rinpoche, a revered Buddhist master, in the 8th century during his journey to establish the Lo Gekhar Monastery. The cave is also associated with the Hindu god Shiva, who is said to have meditated here during his pilgrimage to Mount Kailash. Today's drive covers a distance of 39.7 km. Overnight stay in Tsarang.

Max Height: 3560m
Meals: BLD (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 5 :

Drive to Ghar Gumba and Lo Manthang

After breakfast, drive to Ghar Gumba, a must-visit monastery with significant historical importance. Then, continue your journey to Lo Manthang. For those who enjoy walking, you can hike from Ghar Gumba to Lo Manthang, offering a great option for hiking enthusiasts with beautiful landscape views. Overnight stay in Lo Manthang.

Max Height: 3840m
Meals: BLD (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 6 :

Explore Lo Manthang and Jhong Cave in Chhoser

Today, you can explore the area either by driving or by horseback riding, covering around 21 km. If you prefer not to ride horses, we can explore by drive in a more relaxed manner. The Jhong Cave in Chhoser is one of the most fascinating caves in Upper Mustang, Nepal. These ancient sky caves have captured the interest of archaeologists worldwide, eager to uncover the mysteries of this cave civilization. Upper Mustang is one of the best examples of such a civilization, with numerous multi-storied man-made caves embedded in the hills. Overnight stay in Lo Manthang.

Max Height: 3960m
Meals: BLD (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 7 :

Explore Lo Manthang and Drive back to Jomsom

Explore the areas around Lo Manthang in the morning. You may have the chance to visit nomadic regions and experience the unique nomadic lifestyle of Mustang. In the afternoon, drive back to Jomsom.

Max Height: 2743m
Meals: BLD (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 8 :

Drive back to Pokhara

Today is the final day of driving, with a longer journey back to Pokhara. In the evening, there will be an accomplishment ceremony in Pokhara. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Max Height: 800m.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 9 :

Fly to Kathmandu

No long drives today, enjoy a relaxing time in Pokhara before flying back to Kathmandu. We will drop you off at your hotel. Your Upper Mustang Jeep Trip concludes here with a warm goodbye from the Community Trek team. If you need anything else, Community Trek will gladly assist you. Namaste!! 

Max Height: 1,400m.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Excluded
Note: This program can be customized to fit your time frame and budget. Let us know your preferences, and we will create the best program for you.
Upper Mustang Jeep Tour's feature image

Include

    • Hotels
    • 4WD
    • Permits
    • Guide

Exclude

    • Personal Expenses
    • Insurance 
    • Tips

How to Book Trip?

Deposits and Payments:

300 US $ Deposit: Secure your spot with a minimum deposit. Remaining Payment: Pay anytime before the trip starts.

Cancellations:

You can cancel anytime. Get a full refund up to 40 days before your trip. 50% refund up to 25 days before. 25% refund up to 15 days before. No refund after 15 days or after the trip starts.

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