Overview

Trip introduction

“The wilderness aspect of a place is worthy enough to be traveled upon.”

Located at the northwestern part of Nepal, our Royal Mustang Trek takes you into the luxuriant Annapurna region which is bounded by the Himalaya foothills that run along the Nepal-Tibet border to the north, the Pokhara valley to the south, Marshyangdi River to the east, and Kali Gandaki River to the west. Among the popular trekking routes of the Annapurna region, Mustang is a less-traveled region. And it lies in the rain shadow of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs. The old ancient trade route between Tibet and Nepal is cited here. Therefore, this region comprises a perfect blend of local culture and nature with diverse flora and fauna ecosystems.

Lower Mustang

Lower Mustang has an isolated and mystical feel to it which inspires visitors to explore & experience this region. Our 19 day luxurious yet ambitious Royal Mustang Trek shall commence with a mesmerizing flight to Jomsom (2,682 m) from Pokhara; until we reach the grandiose backdrop of Jomsom. Pre-requisitely we can also provide you with horses to accommodate you entirely during this trek. But if you prefer walking then with amazing and out-of-the-world sceneries we shall trek onward to Kagbeni (2,800m). You can take a walk around and discover the buildings that haven’t substantially changed for hundreds of years. Such as the Red Monastery which sits at the very entrance to the “Forbidden Kingdom” of Mustang; with a sight of eagles soaring in cloudless skies. The valleys here are arid and dry with colorful rock formations containing many cave dwellings high up in the cliffs.

Jharkot and Muktinath

Further on we hike up toward Jharkot, another medieval village on the trail to Muktinath. Jharkot is just a smidge with a typical Gompa (monastery) which is on a hill at 3,500 m. There you can enjoy your lunch while looking at Nilgiri Peak (7,061 m) across the valley. You can explore the ancient Buddhist monastery with many fascinating Thangka paintings and artifacts. Our trek from here onward goes all the way to Muktinath. Which is a very religious pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Normally the Buddhist nuns take care of cultural heritage inside the Muktinath temple. And most importantly photography/filming of deities inside the temples and monasteries is strictly prohibited.

Dzong and the Bonpo Culture in Mustang

Also, a short tour of 301 caves in Dzong can be a perfect side trip on this day. Dzong is located within a semi-restricted area where part of the Sakya Buddhist tradition, rituals, and practices have been kept alive. So tourists can travel to the village for a day but do not have permission to spend the night there.

Subsequently, on the next day, we shall trek down an amazing single track passing the mystical Lupra valley, where we will visit a Bonpo monastery. Bonpo is an old pre-Buddhist Tibetan religion so you can wander through the town and learn about the Bonpo religion at the Gompa which is painted in red. Following our planned itinerary we shall head to Thini gaun via Phalyak from Lupra. Here in Thini gaun, you can visit Dhumba Lake which is at around 3,500 meters above sea level along with nature’s charismatic landscape.

Tibetan Refugee Camps and Kalapani

Now we pass through small and beautiful terrains to reach the Thakali village of Chimanggaon where you can get a glimpse of the Tibetan Refugee Camps. Unfortunately, the status of Tibetans in Nepal has grown increasingly unstable as China exerts greater influence on Nepal’s policies towards Tibetans. Going through the trail with the Dhaulagiri Mountain to your left and the Annapurna to your right, you shall pass through the waterfall, gorges, and forest to reach Kalapani.

From Kalapani you shall make a gradual climb which in turn brings you to Titigaun village. Here you are presented with fine views ahead of Mt. Nilgiri and Mt. Annapurna I and along with that, you have a spare amount of time to visit Titi Lake. With the opportunity to get close to the natural wonders of the Annapurna region; we carry on with our trek down to Larjung. Immediately behind Larjung, the Dhaulagiri Icefall is poised like an icy deluge arrested by its own viscosity. Behind it is the even more stupendous hulk of Dhaulagiri, the seventh-highest mountain.

Marpha and back to Pokhara

Afterward while moving ahead we pass through villages, Gompa, and breathtaking mountain views. Until we reach the all-famous village, Marpha (2,680m). Marpha is a village behind a ridge and the apples originally from here is a delicacy which you must try. There are also many comfortable places to sleep with great views. Ultimately, at the end of our trek, we shall head towards Jomsom from Marpha. And then take a flight back to Pokhara.

Best Season for Royal Mustang Trek

Although Royal Mustang Trek is possible to do throughout the year, in general, we recommend this trek from April to June and September to November. As these are the top finest months for this luxurious trek. And anyone with a good amount of physical fitness can perform the Royal Mustang Trek. As we shall only walk for about 3 hours per day. So, join Nepal Mountain Trekkers now and be a part of this luxurious trek with many cultural experiences along the way with our expert trekking team. We are also offering a special discount on Royal Mustang Trek along with our other packages in the year 2021 to promote tourism in Nepal to rise from the global pandemic of Coronavirus.

Overview

Detail Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft) and go to 5 star Hotel or Resort:

Just after your arrival in Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport), our representative will pick you up in a private vehicle and take you to the hotel where you will be welcomed with marigold garland and you’ll be staying overnight in there with some refreshment.

Day 2 : Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation:

You will be beginning your first morning in Nepal with an early meal at your hotel and a visit to the Nepal Mountain Trekkers office at Thamel. After being introduced to our team including tour guide, trekking leader, and director of operations, we head for necessary trekking preparations, getting needed equipment with the initiation of Kathmandu sightseeing around world heritage sites. Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath temple, and Boudhanath stupa are UNESCO world heritage sites that we explore till sunset. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 3 : Flight Kathmandu to Pokhara(820m/2690ft ):35 minutes (Drive to fishtail lodge and evening walk to lake side with sunset Mountain View):

After breakfast, we leave the ancient capital city of Kathmandu and proceed to one of the most beautiful cities of Nepal, Pokhara. Along the journey to the Lake City, the scenic flight with a beautiful view of Trishuli and Marshyangdi River, small settlements in between that displays the unique lifestyles of the locals in the hills, the green hills, views of the mountain peaks occasionally, and the rural setting make the flight a remarkable one. Fishtail Mountain is the first mountain to welcome you to the scenic city after you land at the Pokhara domestic airport. Today, we will go for an evening walk around the lakeside and relax at the hotel. Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 4 : Morning flight Pokhara to Jomosom(2682 m/ 8800 ft) and trek to Kagbeni(2800 m/ 9186 ft) : 18 minutes and 3 hrs trek(Annapurna Summit Lodge):

Today we shall start the trek after our flight to the beautiful Jomsom. We fly northwest from Pokhara towards the gateway between the snow-capped mountains of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. The lofty massif of above 8,000 meters and the deep gorges en route is sure to give chills to the travelers. Our trek starts from Jomsom. Starting from the banks of Kali Gandaki River, we reach the settlement of Ekle Bhatti after a couple of hours’ trek and an hour trek leads us to Kagbeni. Kagbeni is an interesting village at the ancient trade route to Tibet and also serves as the entry point to the restricted Upper Mustang Trekking. Kali Gandaki is formed by the confluence of Mustang River and Kak River, two small rivers. This clustered village has ancient monasteries as well. Overnight in Kagbeni.

Day 5 : Kagbeni to Jharkot(3555m/ 11663 ft): 3 hrs (visit old Monastery with Thakali Thanka Painting and Bonpo Culture):

After an early meal, we hike up toward Jharkot, another medieval village on the trail to Muktinath. Jharkot is just a smidge with a typical Gompa (monastery) situated on a hill at 3,500 m where you can enjoy your lunch while looking at Nilgiri Peak (7,061 m) across the valley. You can explore the ancient Buddhist monastery with many fascinating Thangka paintings and artifacts as well as the well-preserved Bonpo Culture. Stay Overnight in Jharkot.

Day 6 : Jharkot to Muktinath(3760m/ 12335 ft) (hiking to Jong(Dzong) and visit Ancient Sakya –pa Gompa back to Hotel Grand Shambala):

Our trek from here onward goes all the way to Muktinath which is a very religious pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Normally the Buddhist nuns take care of cultural heritage inside Muktinath temple and most importantly photography/filming of deities inside the temples and monasteries is strictly prohibited. Also, a short tour of 301 caves in Dzong can be a perfect side trip on this day. Dzong is located within a semi-restricted area where part of the Sakya Buddhist tradition, rituals, and practices have been kept alive so tourists can travel to the village for a day but are not permitted to spend the night there. Stay Overnight in Muktinath.

Day 7 : Muktinath to Lupra(2790m/ 9153 ft ): 2-3 hrs (Bonpo Compa culture and Thakali Village | Overnight at Lupra Homestay):

Today, we shall trek down an amazing single track passing the mystical Lupra valley, where we will visit a Bonpo monastery. Bonpo is an old pre-Buddhist Tibetan religion so you can wander through the town and learn about the Bonpo religion at the Gompa which is painted in red. Close-Up View of Nilgiri I and II can be sighted along this off-the-beaten trail. Stay Overnight in Lupra.

Day 8 : Lupra to Phalyak (3144 m/ 10314 ft): 3-4 hrs (Phalyak Homestay):

As per the preplanned itinerary, we shall head to Phalyak from Lupra this day. After reaching the Kaligandaki Riverbank, we continue our journey towards the meeting point of the river where several small tributaries join to form a crashing Kaligandaki River. Then we will cross a bridge and walk towards the Kolungba Khola, originating from the Tashikang peak and its neighboring glaciers. And with a short hike of a while at a leisurely pace, you will be at Phalyak, a seldom traveled untouched village in the Mustang region of Nepal full of flawless Tibetan-influenced culture. Stay Overnight at Phalyak.

Day 9 : Phalyak to Thinigaon(2820 m/ 9251 ft): 3-4 hrs (Visit in Dhumba Tal (2830m/ 9284 ft) overnight at Thini Guest House):

Today, we will be exploring the side trip trekking route to Jomson. The trail we are trekking on today is pleasing with the astounding vistas of snow-clad mountain peaks. Small rural settlements influenced by Tibetan Buddhism make the trail full of fluttering Prayer flags, Chortens, and typical lifestyle and culture. After reaching Thini Gaun, you can visit Dhumba Lake which is situated around 3,500 meters above sea level along with nature’s charismatic landscape. Stay Overnight in Thinigaon.

Day 10 : Thinigaon to Chimanggaon(2850m/ 9350 ft): 2-3 hrs (Tibetian Refugee Camp , Overnight at Homestay):

Today, we pass through small and beautiful terrains to reach the Thakali village of Chimanggaon where you can get a glimpse of the Tibetan Refugee Camps. From Thinigaon, the route to Chimanggaon passes over the mindboggling stone settlements. The people of this village are also known as Chimba and they are highly influenced by Buddhism as well. You can buy handmade handicraft items and souvenirs there in Tibetan Refugee Camp. Stay Overnight in Chimanggaon.

Day 11 : Chimanggaon to Kalapani (2530m/ 8300 ft): 4-5 hrs (Overnight at Kalapani Guest House):

Going ahead through the trail with the Dhaulagiri Mountain to your left and the Annapurna to your right, you shall pass through the waterfall, gorges, and forest to reach Kalapani. The trail is entirely off-the-beaten and leads you through some of the gorgeous places on Earth. Stay Overnight in Kalapani.

Day 12 : Kalapani to Titi Gaon (2679m/ 8789 ft):3 hrs (Visit Titi Lake):

From Kalapani you shall make a gradual climb which in turn brings you to Titigaun village. Here you are presented with fine views ahead of Mt. Nilgiri and Mt. Annapurna I and along with that, you have a spare amount of time to visit Titi Lake. Stay Overnight in Titi Gaon.

Day 13 : Titi to Larjung(2550m/ 8366 ft): 4 hrs (O/N at larjung Guest House):

With the opportunity to get close to the natural wonders of the Annapurna region, we carry on with our trek down to Larjung. Immediately behind Larjung, the Dhaulagiri Icefall is poised like an icy deluge arrested by its own viscosity. Behind it is the even more stupendous hulk of Dhaulagiri, the seventh-highest mountain. Besides, Larjung is one of the least explored natural sites in the Mustang region with so many untouched heritages of the Upper Mustang. Stay overnight in Larjung.

Day 14 : Rest Day (Hike to Dhaulagiri Icefall):

Today we will go for a day hike to Dhaulagiri Icefall and come back to Larjung. It will be a worthy and remarkable experience of a lifetime. You can get a stunning view of the Dhaulagiri range and other neighboring Himalayas, as well as the phenomenal Kaligandaki Valley this day. Also, it will be a day to help you acclimatize and provide some restful moments to your body. Stay Overnight in Larjung.

Day 15 : Larjung to Marpha(2670m/ 8759 ft): 3 hrs (O/N at Hotel Paradise):

Afterward while moving ahead, we pass through villages, Gompa, and breathtaking mountain views to reach the all-famous village, Marpha (2,680m). Marpha is a village behind a ridge and the apples originally from here is a delicacy which you must try. There are also many comfortable places to sleep with great views. From Marpha, the vistas of Nilgiri and surrounding peaks are just magnificent and the stone-made houses where resides the simply amazing locals are just mind-boggling. Stay Overnight in Marpha.

Day 16 : Marpha to Jomsom(2720m/ 8923 ft):3 hrs (O/N at Oms Hotel):

After your early meal, we will trek back towards the culturally enriched village of Jomsom to end our short and remarkable Royal Mustang Trek. We shall reach Jomsom before 12 noon to avoid the stormy wind. You can buy some handicrafts and souvenirs to take with you or for your friends and family there in Jomsom while exploring the artistic Buddhist monasteries and lifestyle and culture of the locals. Stay Overnight in Jomsom.

Day 17 : Morning Flight Jomsom to Pokhara (820m/2690m):18 minutes and go to Fishtail Lodge (Sightseeing in Pokhara Valley):

After your breakfast, we will catch an early morning flight to Pokhara from Jomsom airport. We will be visiting some sightseeing places located at Pokhara as many of them as possible with respect to the availability of time on this day. Some of the places include Peace Pagoda, Mahendra Cave, Davi’s Fall, Lakeside, and so on. Stay Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 18 : Flight Pokhara to Kathmandu : 35minutes and go to 5 star or resort:

Get ready with your bags as we leave for Kathmandu after completing our adventure in the Annapurna region. The flight shall be generally early in the morning after having some breakfast over the vast landscape, rolling and high hills, lush and green valleys, serpentine-shaped rivers, and the view of majestic Himalayas. On reaching Kathmandu, you shall be escorted to the hotel where you are staying. You have the rest of the day by yourself when you may go souvenir shopping and engage in any activity if you have booked with us. Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 19 : Departure Day:

After completing the trekking expedition in one of the world’s best trekking destinations, you are finally ready to leave for your respective destinations. Go for some last-minute shopping if you have any and make sure you have packed all your belongings. You shall be transferred to the international airport for your onward destination in a private vehicle. We hope that this adventure has been of special importance and it has tempted you to come back for another adventure in this Himalayan nation. Have a safe and comfortable journey to your onward destination.

Price Includes

• Airport pick up and drop service
• All accommodation during the trek in the best hotels/tea-houses in the area (differing according to the price you wish to spend)
  • Sanitation: The accommodation we provide will be neat and clean with warm-hospitality and quality services.
  • Single/Twin-sharing Accommodation (as per budget): Your group won’t have to share your accommodation with anyone else so your privacy is protected.
• All foods during the trek: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner; any items on the menu as much as you wish to consume.
  • We provide hygienic and safe meals to re-energize you.
  • We request you not to waste your meals for it is difficult to transport food in the rural area.
  • You are not allowed to share your meals with anyone else from another group.
• Transportation costs: Drive or take a domestic flight in (Kathmandu-Pokhara- Kathmandu) route as per itinerary
• Also another flight or drive-in (Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara) route as per itinerary
• Professional and Highly experienced English-speaking Trekking Guide licensed by the Government. Including their lodging and food.
  • Local Staffs: Our guides are locals of the region which ensures that you will surely get to explore a bit more during the trek than with any other guides.
  • Experienced: With experience of more than a decade of working in this field, our trekking guides possess excellent knowledge on briefing during the trek as well as they are experts in handling all kinds of critical situations which might occur during the trek.
  • Insurance: Nepal Mountain Trekkers have an insurance policy for all our trekking staff.
• Porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers with a max load of 25 KG). Including their lodging and food.
  • Local Staffs: The porters we hire belong to the same region where we trek in order to provide employment opportunities to the locals as well as to make you explore every prospect of the region.
• Trekking permits: Upper Mustang Special Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area(ACAP) fees
• First aid medical box
• T-shirt, Duffel Bag, and Trekking Map with Company Logo
• Rescue Arrangement Service
• All required trekking gear like Sleeping bags and Down jackets made available on rent
• 13% VAT and 10% service charge

Price Excludes

• Visa fee to enter Nepal (Visa Information)
• International flight tickets and extra baggage charges
• Extra night accommodation and meal costs in Kathmandu due to any change in the scheduled itinerary
• Travel insurance/ Rescue operation costs
• All personal expenses
• Tip for guides and porters is expected but not mandatory

Trip Gallery

Trip Map:

Equipments