Upper Mustang and Muktinath Jeep Tour 13 Days

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. Spend the day exploring the vibrant Thamel district, known for its shops, cafes, and trekking gear outlets. In the evening, attend a pre-trek briefing to go over the itinerary and ensure you’re ready for your upcoming adventure. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, soaking in the lively atmosphere of the city.

Sightseeing in Kathmandu.

After an early breakfast, embark on a 6-7 hour drive to Pokhara. Enjoy scenic views of the Trishuli and
Marsyangdi rivers, lush mountains, and the majestic Annapurna, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel and unwind. You can stroll along Fewa Lake, rent a boat,
or relax in one of the lakeside cafes before dinner.

After breakfast, begin your scenic jeep drive on a wide, picturesque road. After about 3 hours, you’ll reach Beni (830 m / 2,723 ft), where the real adventure begins. From here, follow the Kali Gandaki River, passing through lush landscapes and charming villages. One highlight is the stunning Rupse Waterfall (310 m / 1,017 ft), a perfect stop for photos.

As you continue, the road turns more challenging as you enter landslide-prone areas. Upon reaching Ghasa (2,010 m / 6,594 ft), you’ll cross into the Mustang region and check in with your permits. The journey through Mustang is awe-inspiring, with incredible views of snow-capped peaks and colorful villages.

You’ll pass through villages like Lete (2,480 m / 8,136 ft), Kobang (2,540 m / 8,336 ft), and Tukuche (2,570 m / 8,433 ft), each offering its unique charm before arriving at Marpha (2,670 m / 8,760 ft).

Marpha, known as the “Apple Capital of Nepal,” is a peaceful and picturesque village surrounded by apple orchards. Its cobbled streets and traditional whitewashed stone houses add to its charm, and the serene atmosphere offers a perfect place to relax. You’ll overnight in Marpha, soaking in the natural beauty of this tranquil Himalayan settlement.

Start your day in Marpha , a charming village known for its apple orchards, traditional stone houses, and stunning Himalayan views. Explore the village’s peaceful atmosphere, visit the local monastery, and enjoy the blend of ancient culture and modern tourism.

After a hearty breakfast, head to Jomsom , the administrative center of Mustang. Jomsom is home to various services such as banks, ATMs, bakeries, and a small airport that connects the region to Pokhara.

From Jomsom, continue your journey towards Dhumba Lake (2,510 m / 8,240 ft), nestled beneath the towering Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m / 23,166 ft). The serene beauty of the lake is a highlight of the day, offering great photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere to relax.

Next, drive to Kagbeni (2,800 m / 9,186 ft), a historic village located at the confluence of two rivers. Kagbeni is a spiritual hub, known for its unique setting and ancient monasteries. It is also an important pilgrimage site, where Hindus perform the Shraddha ritual in memory of their ancestors.

On the way to Kagbeni, stop by Muktinath (3,710 m / 12,171 ft), one of the holiest temples for both Hindus and Buddhists. Muktinath is famous for its sacred 108 water spouts and two ponds believed to cleanse one’s sins. Devotees from around the world visit Muktinath to pay homage and receive spiritual blessings.

After exploring Muktinath, return to Kagbeni, a gateway to Upper Mustang and an ancient town full of rich history and culture. Enjoy your overnight stay in Kagbeni, reflecting on the day’s spiritual and scenic experiences.

After a morning stroll in Kagbeni, head out through the wide valleys of Upper Mustang. Pass through Tangbe (2,900 m), known for its whitewashed houses and Chhortens, and Chhusang (2,920 m), where you’ll complete your permit formalities. The drive continues past Chaile and climbs towards Samar (3,290 m), Syangbochen, and Ghiling (3,400 m). The journey offers stunning landscapes and more beautiful Chhortens.

Arriving at Ghami (3,520 m), a scenic village by a river, you’ll explore its monastery and historical ties to the Royal family. Overnight at a local hotel.

After breakfast, drive through winding roads and cross rivers to reach Tsarang (3,560 m)  via Tsarang La Pass (3870m). You will be witness the view of the Annapurna I, Tilicho, Nilgiri, and other mountain ranges as cross through. From Tsarang, head to Luri Gompa (3,950m/12959ft), an ancient monastery perched atop a hill, famous for its cave frescoes and mysterious tunnels. Explore the site before returning to Tsarang to visit its monasteries.

In the afternoon, drive to Lomanthang (3,840 m), the historic capital of the 15th-century Kingdom of Ama Pal. Explore the ancient town before spending the night at a local hotel.

After breakfast in Lomanthang , drive to Choser to uncover its hidden mysteries. The highlight is the Shija Jhong Cave, a fascinating five-story structure with 40 rooms carved into the cliffside. Next, visit the Lowo Nyiphug Namdrol Norbuling Monastic School in Choser before returning to Lomanthang.

Spend the afternoon exploring Lomanthang, with its ancient palace and traditional houses. Although Nepal no longer has a monarchy, the people of Upper Mustang still hold great respect for the royal family. The Lomanthang Palace offers a glimpse into centuries past, while the town is home to three impressive monasteries: Chode Gompa (Dragkar Thegchen Ling), Jampa Monastery, and Thupchen Gompa, all dating back to the 15th century. Visit the museum to learn more about the region’s history.

After breakfast in Lomanthang (3,840 m), begin your downhill drive. From Tsarang Khola, leave the main road and head towards Lo Gekar Gompa (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), also known as Ghar Gompa. This 8th-century monastery, older than Tibet’s Samya Monastery, is one of the oldest in the world and a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. The legend connects it to Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), who is said to have visited here. Along the way, stop at Dhakmar to admire the striking red cliffs, which are linked to the tale of Guru Rinpoche slaying a demon. Continue your drive back to Syangbochen.

From Syangbochen, drive towards the Chungsi Cave (3,500 m / 11,483 ft), an 8th-century cave associated with Guru Rinpoche, who meditated here while chasing a demon from Tibet. In some cases, you may need to hire a horse to reach the cave, which stands as a key part of Upper Mustang’s Buddhist heritage.

Enjoy a stunning morning view in Chaile (3,000 m), where the rocky cliffs glow in the early sunlight and Chhusang sits beside the wide Kali Gandaki River. After breakfast, begin your downhill drive, passing through Chhusang and stopping to check out at the police checkpoint. Continue through Kagbeni, Jomsom, Marpha, and Lete, gradually descending towards Tatopani (1,190 m), known for its natural hot springs. Arrive in Tatopani and relax at your hotel for the night.

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic 5-hour drive from Tatopani to Pokhara. The road offers stunning views, including magnificent sights of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m / 26,795 ft), so there’s no rush—take your time to enjoy the journey. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check in at your hotel. In the evening, stroll through the vibrant local market by the lakeside and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Overnight at your hotel in Pokhara.

After breakfast, embark on a 6-7 hour drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The scenic route offers beautiful views of the countryside, rivers, and mountains. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check in at your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure to relax or explore any remaining sights in the city.

Depending on your flight time, you’ll be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. Take with you memories of an unforgettable adventure in Nepal. Safe travels!