The Upper Mustang is the precious treasure of Nepal. Located in the rain shadow area between the giant Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Upper Mustang does not get rainfall and boasts arid landscapes. Trekking to Upper Mustangis one thing, but do you know you can also drive to Upper Mustang? From Kathmandu, you can embark on an overland tour to Mustang as the road connects up to Lo Manthang.
Drive to the lost forbidden Kingdom in Nepal, Lo Manthang, a restricted area that is well protected from the outside world for centuries. Witness breathtaking mountain panorama, unlike any other part of the Himalayas, and immerse yourself into the rich Tibetan Buddhism cultural heritage of the locals.
The Upper Mustang overland tour goes along the Kali Gandaki gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. You will be driving on a winding path through verdant and rocky foothills. The ride is very adventurous and thrilling. You'll find yourself driving along the edge of the cliffs and also crossing many landslide areas. An experienced driver and crew will accompany you on this overland tour, ensuring the safety of the trip.
Because it is an overland tour, the journey is not difficult. You do not have to walk long hours on rough, steep terrain. Therefore, individuals with no high-altitude experience can also do a Mustang overland tour. Be mindful that the road is not well made all the way up to Lo Manthang. There are dirt roads and a handful of bumpy sections too. Thus, the drive can get exhausting.
Wonders of a road trip to Lo Manthang
We use an excellent private jeep for our overland tour to Mustang. You get to see the Kali Gandaki gorge, which used to be a trade route for Indians and Tibetans. The trail further takes you across natural hot springs in Tatopani and Apple orchards in Marpha (2,670 m). You'll visit ancient monasteries on the way and also stop at sky caves. There are numerous mani walls, stupas, chortens, prayer flags, and monasteries on the way.
Upper Mustang is very close to Tibet. The locals are highly influenced by Tibetans and their cultural heritage. As the region is dominated by Tibetan Buddhism, you'll get to learn the values, traditions, and practices of the locals while you spend nights in beautiful villages. Likewise, the snow-capped mountains, rocky hills, and unique formations of rocks are seen throughout the drive.
The trip lets you see views of Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Mt. Tukuche (6,920 m), Mt. Fishtail (6,993 m), Lamjung Himal (6,983 m), Thorong Peak (6,144 m), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), etc.
Upper Mustang drive distance
From Kathmandu, first, you'll be driving to Pokhara. It is located 200 km away. The next long drive in a day is Pokhara to Jomsom, which is 155 km away. Jomsom is the tourist hub of Mustang and has an airport and many modern facilities. From here, you begin driving towards Lo Manthang. Lo Manthang is situated 60 km away from Jomsom. However, instead of stopping at Jomsom, we'll continue the drive to Marpha via Tatopani.
Mustang Overland Tour 2023/2023 Itinerary in Brief
The drive to Upper Mustang begins from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. You'll spend a full day in Kathmandu exploring historical sites and packing for the trip. On the third day of your arrival in Kathmandu, we'll drive to Pokhara. The route is well-made and scenic. We'll spend the night in a comfortable hotel nearby Lakeside. The evening is free to enjoy the sunset at the gorgeous Phewa Lake. The next morning, our overland tour begins.
Leaving the bustle of Pokhara behind, we drive enjoying the views of the countryside and a glimpse of mountains. Driving along the gorge, we pass by Tatopani and keep driving towards Marpha (2,670 m). The next day, the route passes by Kagbeni and Syangboche pass (4,200 m) to Ghami village (3,520 m). From here, we drive Lo Manthang (3,810 m) driving via Ghar Gompa. We'll have a reset day in Lo Manthang that we use to explore the village and the local's lifestyle.
We'll also go on a ride to these places. Kara La pass. On the way to Lo Manthang, we'll stop at Jhong Cave, Gharphu Gompa, Niphu Gompa, and Namgyal Gompa in Thinggar valley. Our next point is Yara. The road passes by Charang and Dhee villages. We'll visit Luri Gompa and Tashi Kabum. The following day, we’ll have a delicious breakfast as usual and begin our ride to Chhusang (2,980 m). Here, we'll visit Teteng monastery.
On day 10th, we drive to Jomsom (2,720 m) via Muktinath (3,760 m), a pilgrimage site. From Jomsom, we'll fly to Pokhara and drive back to Kathmandu the next day. Our Mustang overland tour itinerary has one full day in Kathmandu before you depart back to your home.
Why go on an Upper Mustang Overland Tour with Nepal Gateway Trekking?
We have the best on-field team for a jeep tour to Upper Mustang. You'll enjoy the overland tour to the fullest with us. Our itinerary lets you explore hidden artistic monasteries and takes you across many passes comfortably. We have the best Mustang Overland tour cost with top-notch service.
We also tailor-made the upper Mustang Overland Tour itinerary if you want to do any customization. Likewise, we also organize a special Upper Mustang overland tour during the Tiji festival and Yartung Festival. For more information, contact our team and let us know your questions.
