Drive to the last forbidden kingdom, Lo-Manthang, in Nepal. This restricted area has been well-protected from the outside world for centuries. Witness a breathtaking mountain panorama unlike any other part of the Himalayas. Immerse yourself in the rich Tibetan Buddhist cultural heritage of the locals.
Upper Mustang Overland Tour
Upper Mustang Overland Tour is the precious treasure of Nepal. Upper Mustang lies between the giant Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges in the rain shadow area. Upper Mustang does not get much rainfall, even in monsoon season. This place boasts arid landscapes. Trekking to Upper Mustang is one thing, but do you know you can also drive to Upper Mustang? From Kathmandu, you can embark on the Upper Mustang Overland Tour to the Mustang region, as the road connects up to Lo-Manthang.
The Upper Mustang Overland Tour goes along the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. You drive on a winding path through verdant and rocky foothills. The ride is very adventurous and thrilling. You find yourself driving along the cliffs' edge and crossing many landslide areas. An experienced driver and crew will accompany you on this Upper Mustang Overland Tour to ensure safety.
The journey to Lo-Manthang is not difficult because it is an overland tour. You do not have to walk long hours on rough, steep terrain. Therefore, everybody can do this Mustang Overland Tour without any previous trekking or hiking experience. Only be mindful that the road is not well made 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 Upper 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 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.
The Upper Mustang is very close to Tibet. The locals are highly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, where you witness the locals' values, traditions, and practices. You spend nights in beautiful villages in the Mustang region. Likewise, the snow-capped mountains, rocky hills, and unique rock formations are seen throughout the drive.
The trip lets you see some mountains over 8,000 meters: Mt. Annapurna I (8,091 m) and Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m). You also see other mountains such as Mt. Tukuche, Mt. Fishtail, Tilicho Peak, Dhampus Peak, etc.
Upper Mustang Overland Tour Distance
You drive to Pokhara, a city of the lakes, from Kathmandu by bus. Kathmandu to Pokhara is 200 km away. The drive is scenic but takes 6-7 hours. The next drive from Pokhara to Jomsom is very long, 155 km. It takes around 8–10 hours. 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.
The best Itinerary for the Upper Mustang Overland Tour 2024
We have made the best itinerary for the Upper Mustang Overland Tour in 2024, with 13 days. The tour to Upper Mustang begins in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. You spend a whole day in Kathmandu, exploring historical sites and packing for the trip. Then, you drive to Pokhara, a city of lakes with panoramic views from every corner. The route is well-made and scenic. You spend a night in a comfortable hotel near Lakeside. You can enjoy the sunset at the gorgeous Fewa Lake in the evening.
The real journey of the Upper Mustang Overland Tour to Lo-Manthang starts after spending a wonderful time in Pokhara. Leaving the bustle of Pokhara behind, we enjoy the views of the countryside and a glimpse of the mountains while driving. Driving along the gorge, we pass Tatopani (a natural hot spring place) and keep moving towards Marpha (2,670 m). The route passes by Kagbeni and Syangboche (4,200 m) to Ghami village (3,520 m) the following day. From here, we drive to Lo Manthang (3,810 m) via Ghar Gompa. We have a reset day in Lo Manthang. We explore the village and the locals's lifestyle of Lo-Manthang.
On the way to Lo Manthang, we stop at Jhong Cave, Gharphu Gompa, Niphu Gompa, and Namgyal Gompa in Thinggar Valley. We also go on a ride to a place called Kara La Pass. Our next point is Yara. The road passes by Charang and Dhee villages. We visit Luri Gompa and Tashi Kabum. We visit Tetang monastery in Tetang Village, then drive to Jomsom (2,720 m) via Muktinath (3,760 m), a pilgrimage site. We fly to Pokhara from Jomsom and drive back to Kathmandu the next day. Our Mustang overland tour itinerary has one full leisure day in Kathmandu before you go home.
Why Nepal Gateway Trekking for Upper Mustang Overland Tour?
We have the best program for the Upper Mustang Overland Tour in Nepal. Our package of the Mustang Overland Tour for 2024 offers the best and most affordable price. We have experienced and knowledgeable guides and a helpful support team. Our team is always dedicated to your satisfaction. Our itinerary lets you explore hidden artistic monasteries and across many passes comfortably. We have the best Mustang Overland tour price with top-notch service.
We Customize Trips according to client's requirements and time frames. Likewise, we organize a unique Upper Mustang Overland Tour during the Tiji and Yartung Festivals. For more information, Contact Our Team.
This is our standard and recommended Itinerary for Upper Mustang Overland Tour.
- All grounded transportation as per itinerary.
- Three nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu inclusive of breakfast.
- Two nights' accommodation in Pokhara inclusive of breakfast.
- Jomsom to Pokhara flight ticket inclusive of domestic airport taxes.
- Three times meals (Breakfast/lunch/dinner) and accommodations during the trekking.
- One highly experienced English-speaking & friendly trekking guide and required porter including their expenses.
- Mustang trekking special permit fee (Mustang region is in a restricted zone, we need a special permit to visit this area).
- Annapurna conservation fees and Tims card.
- Upper Mustang Trekking map.
- Nepal Gateway Company T-shirt.
- Local fresh fruits.
- First aid kit.
- Evacuation assistance if needed.
- Government taxes.
- Office service charge.
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
- Your travel insurance.
- Nepal entry visa.
- Your international flight ticket to/from Kathmandu.
- Your personal nature expenses, equipment and medical kit.
- All kinds of hot and cold drinks and alcoholic beverages in trekking.
- Hot shower, internet and phone call unless it is free.
- Tipping to field staff (Tipping is not mandatory but expected).
Extraordinary trip 12 days in Upper Mustang in trekking and road trip This is the 2nd time that Rajendra has organised our stay in Nepal....