The Luxury Upper Mustang Jeep Tour leads from the bustling cities of Kathmandu and Pokhara to the windy but peaceful valleys of the Last Forbidden Kingdom. The fabulous Tibetan houses, Tibetan Migrants, and diverse landscape of Upper Mustang will never disappoint any traveller in luxury.
The hidden villages which can be spotted only after reaching the place itself are what makes the place more unique. Also known as the Hidden Kingdom, Upper Mustang has a lot more to offer than the words we explain. Additionally, the 8th, 13th, and 15th Centuries and more monasteries with the influence of Tibetan Buddhism make the tour even more fascinating.
In addition, the stories of every camp you go to are different. The belief of the people in these stories and villages remaining hidden from the rest of the world further entices the travellers to stay surprised at every step.
The total of 12 days of your trip in luxury will become one of the most unforgettable journeys with stay, visuals, monastery visits, and cultural involvement.
As usual, the Luxury Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is more into activities of the Mustangis.
The luxury here lies in the case of accommodation and transportation. First thing, you travel by a 4WD comfortable Jeep, a private vehicle that ensures you do not get tired easily just by the drive. In addition, your stays are at luxury hotels in two places during the journey in the high places while the rest of the accommodation will be in comfortable lodges.
The region is highly influenced by the Tibetan Migrants as this was a part of Tibet in back dates. So, you will surely be involved among them with their warm hospitality and daily lifestyle. Prayer wheels are almost everywhere. Thus, you get to experience the local life of Upper Mustang in comfort.
The journey offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the ancient Tibetan culture that permeates the region.
From the starting day of the drive from Pokhara, you will have amazing views of the Mountains closer to you. Heading ahead will send the mountains in the south from Lete, Kalopani onwards. You will have completely entered a different part of Nepal.
Your guide and driver will be also equally expert in their own field ensuring that you are safe, enjoying, and more involved in the whole trip.
This luxury journey to the Mud Kingdom of Nepal will always be impressed in your memories with all the influence.
For the 7-day Upper Mustang Road Trip from Pokhara to Pokhara, your Mustang journey will look like this in case of route:
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to The Apple Orchard, Marpha
Day 2: Drive to Ghami village via Kagbeni
Day 3: Drive to Lo Manthang via Dhakmar
Day 4: Drive to Chhoser for Sky Caves Visit and Korala Border, back to Lo Manthang
Day 5: Explore Lo Manthang
Day 6: Drive to Muktinath
Day 7: Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara
Throughout the 7 days, your journey will remain fabulous and with tonnes of stories that you want to share back home.
Regarding your stay, your Kathmandu stay will be at a 5-star Hotel or Heritage Hotel depending upon your choice. In Pokhara, you will stay at Annapurna Eco Resort in Astam. You can change it to other hotels as well if you want. We will easily customize the plan.
When you move from Pokhara onward, your first stay is in Marpha, where you will be staying in a comfortable lodge themed with Mustang’s house architecture. Additionally, in Ghami your stay is at Hotel Lo Ghami. Lo Manthang offers you a luxury stay at The Royal Mustang Resort. Additionally, when you get back to Muktinath, your stay is at Hotel Lo Mustang.
All these accommodations are themed to the local themes of each place. That is why the Upper Mustang Overland Tour is more defined throughout the trip.
You will arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where our representative will warmly welcome you. You will then be transferred to the hotel in the city centre. After check-in, you have the day to relax or explore the nearby areas. In the evening, you have a welcome dinner featuring traditional Nepali cuisine and a brief orientation about the tour.
Today, in the very morning at around 5 AM you will drive to the TIA Domestic Terminal. After that, you take a 50 minutes Everest Mountain Flight. During the flight, you can see almost all of the Eastern Nepali Himalayan Range, including Mount Everest.
After the flight, you will then head back to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, the day is for the 4-Heritage Sightseeing Cultural Tour with your Tour Guide. You will visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bouddhanath, Pashupatinath, and Monkey Temple.
These 4 World Heritage Sites' tours will take almost the whole day. After the trip, you can rest back at the hotel and prepare for the next day with dinner.
After breakfast, you will fly to Pokhara along with your guide, a city known for its stunning natural beauty and serene lakes. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to Astam, a picturesque village located about an hour's drive from Pokhara. You will check into the Annapurna Eco Resort, nestled amidst lush greenery with panoramic views of the Annapurna range. You will have the rest of the day to relax, enjoy the tranquil surroundings, and Astam village, and take in the breathtaking mountain vistas.
You will start the drive after breakfast to Marpha Village, known for its apple orchards and traditional Thakali culture. The journey will pass through the Kali Gandaki Valley, offering breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Nilgiri. You will pass by charming villages like Tatopani and Ghasa, experiencing the changing landscapes. Upon arrival in Marpha, you will check into your cozy lodge. After that, the exploration of the narrow streets, monastery, and taste of the famous apple products will be done.
After breakfast, you will drive to Ghami Village, passing through Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. Kagbeni is a picturesque village with ancient houses, narrow alleys, and the Kag Chhode Monastery overlooking the Kali Gandaki River. Continuing your journey, you will drive through arid landscapes and high cliffs, experiencing the Upper Mustang region. Upon arrival in Ghami, you will check into your lodge and explore the village, visiting the Ghami Monastery and the iconic red cliffs.
Today is a big day as you will drive to the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, passing through Dhakmar and Ghar Gompa. The journey will take you through stunning landscapes, including the red cliffs of Dhakmar and the sacred Ghar Gompa, known for its ancient murals and spiritual significance. Reaching Lo Manthang will be already pretty late, so we will keep the exploration to the next day.
You will spend the day exploring Lo Manthang, immersing yourself in this ancient city's rich culture and history. You will visit the Chhoede, Thupchen, and Jampa Monasteries, known for their murals and architecture. You might also interact with the local people, learning about their traditions and way of life.
After that, you will drive to Chhoser, a village known for its ancient sky-cave dwellings and monasteries. You will explore the Shija Jhong Cave, a fascinating five-story structure carved into the cliff. Continuing your journey, you will drive to the Korala Border, the northernmost point of Nepal bordering Tibet. After enjoying the stunning views and unique landscapes, you will return to Lo Manthang for an overnight stay.
In the evening, you will enjoy a traditional Tibetan meal.
After breakfast, you will drive to Muktinath, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The journey will take you through stunning landscapes, with views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival, you will visit the Muktinath Temple, known for its eternal flame and 108 water spouts. You will also explore the surrounding area, including the village of Ranipauwa and the massive Mustang seen right in the front.
Today, bidding farewell to the region you will drive back to Pokhara, retracing your route through the beautiful landscapes of the Mustang region. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will be transferred to Sarangkot Mountain Lodge, where you will check in and relax. The lodge offers stunning views of the Pokhara Valley and the Annapurna mountains, providing a perfect setting for relaxation after your adventurous journey.
You will spend the day exploring Pokhara, a city renowned for its natural beauty and vibrant culture. You can visit landmarks such as Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, and the International Mountain Museum. Before heading back to the hotel, you can enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake, taking in the reflection of the surrounding mountains.
After breakfast, you will fly back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. You will have the day to relax and enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment.
In the evening, you will gather for a farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant, celebrating the successful completion of your journey and sharing your experiences with fellow travellers.
Depending on your flight time, you may have some free time to explore more of Kathmandu or do some last-minute shopping. Our representative will then transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. You will leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of your luxurious adventure in the Upper Mustang region.
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Trip Duration: 12 days
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You will need two permits for the Upper Mustang Tour. One is the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and another is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). The RAP for Upper Mustang is $500/person for the first 10 Days and $50/per day per person for any additional days. The ACAP on the other hand is just $30/person.
The Upper Mustang though remote has almost all the facilities like a city. Proper Wi-Fi and electricity are available in every lodge where you stay. Similarly, there are also power sockets available in every room. However, sometimes, power cuts are faced at this place due to high-speed wind and other natural calamities.
As you reach an altitude of 4,660 meters in the Korala Border, it is prone to altitude sickness. Moreover, as you will be driving at many places, your body might not have even acclimatized well. Thus, enough rest, sleep, and food are the major ways to avoid altitude sickness. Additionally, you can also take the help of Diamox which helps you acclimatize faster.
A minimum of 10 days is recommended for a complete Upper Mustang experience. This allows sufficient time for acclimatization, exploration of villages and monasteries, and enjoying the unique landscape. Some travelers opt for longer itineraries (up to 18 days) to delve deeper into the region by hiking.
Currently, the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP) costs USD $500 for the first 10 days. There's an additional fee of USD $50 per person per day for stays exceeding 10 days.
The ideal window of Upper Mustang falls between March and August in spring and September to November in autumn. These periods offer clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and minimal risk of rains or snowfall on the higher passes.
Yes, a licensed guide is mandatory for traveling in the Upper Mustang due to the restricted area permit regulations. Guides not only navigate the terrain but also provide cultural insights and ensure safety throughout the trip.
Upper Mustang was once a secluded kingdom with limited access. To preserve its unique culture and fragile environment, the Nepali government designated it a "restricted area." Special permits are necessary to control visitor numbers and protect the region's heritage.
Upper Mustang was a sovereign kingdom until 1950. The last king, Jigme Dorje Palbar Bista, became known as the "Raja of Mustang." While the monarchy was dissolved, the Raja remains a respected figure and continues to play a cultural role in the region
Open to all nationalities, Upper Mustang requires proper permits and adherence to regulations. Foreigners might need additional documentation compared to Nepalese citizens.
Tibetan is the dominant language in Upper Mustang. However, many locals understand and speak basic Nepali and English, especially in areas with more tourist interactions.
The distance from Pokhara to Upper Mustang varies depending on the chosen route. Generally, it's approximately 140-180 kilometers (87-112 miles) by road. Most journeys involve a combination of jeep rides.
Upper Mustang's beauty lies in its stark yet captivating contrast. A dramatic high-altitude desert landscape, dotted with ancient villages, gompas clinging to cliffsides, a rich Tibetan cultural heritage, and the sky caves. The starkness is offset by the vibrant prayer flags that flutter in the wind and the warm hospitality of the local people.
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