Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

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Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
Duration12 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude3,950m (Luri Gompa)
Group Size25
StartsKathmandu
Endskathmandu
Travel StyleJeep Tour
Best TimeSept - Nov & Mar - May

Upper mustang jeep tour is an unique adventure that gives you an opportunity to explore one of Nepal's most remote and culturally rich regions, Mustang region in less phyical effort. This tour offers a combination of stunning landscapes, historical sites, and cultural immersion. If you have limited time and want to experience the beauty and heritage of Upper Mustang, then you are in the right place. 

Highlights of the tour

  • Breathtaking views of the Snow-capped peaks like Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri.
  • Experience the unique lifestyle of the Local communities including Thakalis, Gurungs, and Tibetans. 
  • Immerse in the local culture, taste the unique cuisines, and experience the rich hospitality of the peoples of the Mustang region. 
  • Visit the historical, cultural, and spiritual sites like ancient monasteries, chortens, and caves. 
  • Travelling through the diverse terrains along the Kali Gandaki river.
  • Explore the forbidden kingdom of Neal, Lo Manthang.
  • Visit to the Natural hot springs and the stunning Kali gandaki Canyon in Tatopani Village
  • Taste the fresh apple from the orchards in Marpha during harvest season.

Overview of the tour

Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is an adventurous tour that takes you to the remote areas of the Upper Mustang region of Nepal. Upper Mustang is known for its unique landscape, rich culture, and historical importance. This region has its own unique identity as the “Last Forrbidden Kingdom.” 

The highest point you will reach as per the Upper Mustang jeep tour itinerary is 3680 metres above sea level, which is less than the highest elevation of the Upper Mustang region. Your official journey starts with the scenic drive from Pokhara city to Kathmandu city. 

The upper Mustang jeep touring journey takes you through the semi-arid desert landscapes, striking rock formations, and stunning Himalayan peaks. Remember that the path you are taking is in a remote location in the Himalayan region because the thrill does not come from touring in cozy places. 

During the jeep tour, you will get to explore popular destinations like the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, Tibetan-style monasteries, Kali Gandaki, and so on. Due to the tour’s use of the Jeep, you can comfortably explore the other untamed terrain. 

The tour package covers all the visits to medieval villages and other exotic landscapes. So, you don’t have to worry about missing important places to tour. Also, you will get to see wildlife like blue sheep, snow leopards, and various bird species along the way. 

Major Attractions of the Tour 

  • Sightseeing of the heritage sites in Kathmandu

A sightseeing tour in Kathmandu's heritage sites gives the quick start for any major treks or tours. You can also go for the separate Seven World Heritage Sites Day Tour or join any tours or treks that include it.

During the tour of Upper Mustang, you will explore some unique heritage sites that reflect the ancient architecture, religious aspects, spirituality, and history of ancient Nepal. The stone inscriptions tell about the intelligence and ancient lifestyle of the peoples of the monarchy era.

The major heritage sites in Kathmandu include Kathmandu Durbar Square (Hanuman Dhoka), Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Changu Narayan Temple.

  • Tatopani town

Tatopani is renowned for its natural hot springs. It is located in the Mustang region of Nepal. It is the popular stop for most of the trekkers seeking relaxation after strenuous hikes in the surrounding mountainous terrains.

It is popular because of the therapeutic properties of the natural hot springs. Besides it, the Tatopani also offers insights into the Thakali and Magar community’s culture and lifestyle. You can also visit the ancient monasteries and experience the breathtaking landscapes.

  • The ancient walled city of Lo Manthang

The ancient walled city of Lo Manthang is a unique middle-aged settlement in the upper Mustang region of Nepal. This city has a lot of history and importance. The ancient city used to be the capital city of Lo’s Kingdom. So, for security reasons, the 6-meter-high earthen walls with square towers were built. 

Lo Manthang city contains several sites, like a 4-story royal palace, 4 red-walled monasteries, and the longest Mani wall that holds historical and cultural values. In addition, the city lies in the rain shadow areas of the annapurna and dhaulagiri mountain ranges. 

  • Tibetan Monasteries

The upper mustang is famous for the ancient monasteries and the history attached to it. There are several monasteries that have been major attractions in the Upper Mustang region. Some of them are Garphu Gompa, Luri Gompa, Tsarang Monastery, Thubchen Gompa, Jampa Lhakang Chode Gompa, Namgyal Gompa, and so on. These monasteries surround the Lo Manthang Palace, which makes the place even more beautiful. 

  • Kali Gandaki gorge

Kali Gandaki Gorge is considered the deepest gorge in the world and has a depth of around 6000 metres. This gorge is located in mustang region of Nepal. The Kali Gandaki River, which originates from the melting of the Nhubine Himal Glacier, forms this gorge. The main attractions of the gorge are towering cliffs, water falls, and important buddhist pilgrimage sites. This gorge is also home to unique saligram stones. 

  • Muktinath Temple

Muktinath Temple is a sacred site in the Upper Mustang region of Nepal. It is located at 3800 metres and requires permit to visit the temple. The temple is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites and holds great importance among Hindus and Buddhists. The special thing about this temple that makes it more attractive is its construction in the pagoda style. The 108 water spouts and two holy water ponds make the temple more beautiful. 

  • Ancient Caves

Ancient caves are the buried chambers that are used for living, meditation spaces, and the most important military lookouts. The Lopa tribe constructed these chambers for their protection and subsistence. Some of the notable examples are Shija Jhong/Jhong Cave and Chungsi Cave. These caves have uncovered partially mummified remains, Buddhist artifacts, and intricate murals and carvings. 

  • Marpha Town

Marpha town is the most beautiful town in the Mustang region. This town is known for its high quality apples and its unique blend of heritage and modernity. It is located at an elevation of 2650 m and features a museum, several monasteries and gompas, and traditional architecture. 

The monasteries in this town showcase Buddhist artwork and provide a spiritual experience. In addition, the locals of Marpha Town are very friendly and are known for their warm hospitality and  traditional Thakali cuisine. 

WHY  US?

3S: Safety, Success, and Satisfaction

Booking an Upper Mustang Jeep Tour package with Mystic Adventure Holidays offers superior service and benefits. Here's why:  

  • Client Safety: Our trips are organized with the utmost safety in mind.
  • Best Price Guarantee: Ensuring you get the best value.
  • Free Transfers: Complimentary airport-to-hotel and return transfers in a private vehicle.
  • Expert Guides: Trained, government-licensed local guides with extensive route knowledge.
  • Support for Locals: Helping local communities earn a living through tourism.
  • Health Monitoring: Oximeters to monitor oxygen levels during high-altitude tours.
  • Medical Preparedness: Guides equipped with medical kits to handle any situations that may arise.
  • Essential Gear: Arrangements for sleeping bags and down jackets.
  • Free Storage: Secure storage at our office for extra luggage during your tour.
  • Convenience: Duffel bags for transferring items to be carried during the journey.
Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all

Our company representative will be waiting with the Mystic Adventure Holidays banner for you at the arrival gate of Tribhuwan International Airport. After welcoming you with garlands, Khadas, and Tika, our team will drop you off at the hotel by assisting in the check-in process. You can explore the streets near your hotel or simply spend the rest of the day inside your rooms. We will pick you up for the welcome dinner in the evening. 

Max Altitude: 1,350 m Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Apsara Boutique HotelDuration: 30-45 minDistance: 6km

Sightseeing in Kathmandu includes exploration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhnath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Swayambhunath. You will learn more about the Kathmandu Valley after visiting these monuments with experienced tour guides. After exploring the heart of Nepal, Kathmandu Valley, you will return to your hotel room and prepare for the tour. 

Max Altitude: 1,350 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch& DinnerAccommodation: Apsara Boutique HotelDuration: Full Day

We will board a private bus and head towards Pokhara via the Prithivi Highway. Our tour guide and leader will pick you up after a warm breakfast at the hotel. Throughout the way, you will be amazed by the countryside view of Nepal, crossing different rivers, suspension bridges, terraced farmlands, traditional villages, lush hills, and popular cities like Mugling, Malekhu, Trishuli, Damauli, and finally reaching Pokhara. Then, we will check in at our hotel, and after freshening up, we will explore the lakeside of Pokhara. 

Max Altitude: 950 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Kuti Resort or Hotel KarunaDuration: 6-7 hrsDistance: 200 km

We will begin our day with a warm breakfast at Pokhara and head towards Mustang. The route will head west of Beni, passing the Kali Gandaki River, the deepest gorge in the world. The scenic views of Mount Annapurna and Dhaulagiri will accompany you until you reach Tatopani. You can take a hot bath in the natural hot spring of Tatopani. Then, the path to Upper Mustang crosses the local communities of Kalapani and Ghasa.

Within a few hours, we will reach the destination for today, Marpha. Marpha is a unique village well-known for apple farming and apple pies. You will explore the Maroha for the rest of the day and spend the night there. 

Max Altitude: 2650 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Standard LodgeDuration: 6-7 hrsDistance: 110 Km

The day starts with a warm breakfast, and we will navigate to approach Jomosm. Jomsom is a famous village where you can taste local cheese made from yak milk. Then, we will cross Kagbeni village, Muktinath temple, and Tangbe via alpine trees and rhododendron forests on the way to Chele. Muktinath Temple is a holy temple where visitors from all around the world pay a visit. 

You will explore the oldest Buddhist monasteries, like Kang Gompa, fields of barley and wheat, and apple farms. Then, we will reach Chukkung village, and on heading north, we will cross the bridge and reach this day's destination, Chele. We will stay overnight at Chele.
 

Max Altitude: 3070 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Standard LodgeDuration: 4-5 hrsDistance: 80 km

We will drive towards Chhusang via Tangbe village on the way. Then, we will enjoy the scenic views of Tilicho Peak, Yakawa Kang, and Damodar Danda until we reach Syangboche. The route to Ghami village comes as soon as we pass Syangboche La and Nyi La. Within a few hours of the ride, we will reach Ghami village. The beautiful mountain and unique landscape make this village a perfect resting destination. We will stop to click pictures and admire the beauty of nature in many places until we reach Ghami. 
 

Max Altitude: 3510-3560 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Standard LodgeDuration: 6 hrsDistance: 32 km


Today we will drive towards Lomanthang by crossing Charang Village, also known as Tsarang Village. Charang village is the second-largest village in the Mustang region. We will cross Lo Pass (3950) and drive towards Tsarang via the Ghami River, the plateau, and several Mani walls. After crossing the Ghami River, the route takes you to a plateau, crossing several Mani Walls. After a few hours of driving, you will reach Tsarang, which is also known as Charang.

From Tsarang, you will drive towards the capital of Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang. Along the way to Lo Manthang, you will be able to see some of the magnificent mountains, such as Mount Annapurna, Nilgiri, Tilicho, and Bhrikurti. You will cross the Lho Pass before you reach the beautiful Lo Manthang Valley.

After reaching Lo Manthang, you will stop, park the Jeep, and stay at one of the hotels overnight.
 

Max Altitude: 3,840 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Standard LodgeDuration: 4-5 hrsDistance: 17 km

This day is going to be the main part of the touring journey. On this climax day, you'll explore Lo Manthang City. You will get to explore the rich cultural heritage and ancient history. There are several key attractions, including the Royal Palace, monasteries, ancient caves, and so on. 

You will get to visit every monastery, like Thubchen Gompa, Jampa Gompa, and Chhoede Gompa. Also, you will visit some ancient caves; Tashi Kabum and Choser Cave. After visiting important historical and ancient times, you will be headed towards one of the hotels and stay there tonight. 
 

Max Altitude: 3,840 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Standard LodgeDuration: Full day

On this day, we will drive back to the Muktinath, passing through popular destinations like Chusang, Tetang, and Kagbeni. During this day, you will move ahead by exploring the unique brick-mud-made houses and ancient monasteries in Chusang village. Ahead, you will get to enjoy the stunning mountain scenery from the tetang village. 

There are more places where the Tibetan and Nepalese cultures are present. village is also one of them. After reaching there, we will stop for a while. You can visit the ancient monasteries during that time. This day tour ends after visiting the sacred Muktinath temple. After visiting the sacred site and clicking some awesome photos, we will head towards our hotel and stay there overnight. 

Max Altitude: 3,710 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Standard LodgeDuration: 6 - 8 hrsDistance: 37 km

This day starts with the scenic drive to Tatopani, passing through popular destinations like Marpha and Lete. During the journey, we will stop at the Kali-Gandaki River Gorge. You can click on some photos. From there, we will head towards Lete village. Lete Village is a beautiful village with a tranquil atmosphere and stunning landscapes. 

After that, we will continue our journey to Tatopani, where we will stay overnight. Tatopani is one of the major stops to rest and relax during the tour. This village has warmer climates and cosy tea houses. 

Max Altitude: 1,190 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Standard LodgeDuration: 6-8 hrsDistance: 44 km

This is the final drive from Tatopani to Kathmandu via Pokhara city. The journey starts with the scenic drive from Tatopani, crossing through the lush landscapes and enjoying the views of the Kali Gandaki River. Upon arriving at the pokhara, we will stop for the launch. After the launch, we will continue our journey to Kathmandu. It is the scenic drive that takes you through the various lush green valleys and riverside highways. This is a 7-8 hour drive. 
 

Max Altitude: 1350 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Standard LodgeDuration: 10-12 hrsDistance: 290 km

This is the last day of your journey to Nepal. Early in the morning, you will be headed towards Tribhuvan International Airport. After following the necessary procedures, you will fly to your desired destination. 

Max Altitude: 1350 m Meals: BreakfastDuration: 30-45 minDistance: 6 km
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Cost Details
Included
  • All the ground transportation is in private vehicles, including both domestic arrivals and departures 
  • 3-night accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast 
  • 2X nights accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast in a three-star standard hotel 
  • Guided Kathmandu Valley Excursion in private vehicles 
  • Kathmandu - Pokhara both-way private vehicle
  • Pokhara - Jomsom-upper Mustang - Pokhara private jeep 
  • Twin-sharing accommodation during the trek in standard teahouse & lodges 
  • Full board meal with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the tour 
  • An experienced, certified, and professional trekking guide for the entire tour
  • Food, accommodation, insurance, and salary of guide
  • All the necessary permits and entrances, such as ACAP, TIMS Card, and Restricted Area Permit 
  • Welcome dinner in Kathmandu 
  • Season fruits as dessert during the trek 
  • Mystic Adventure Holidays trekking bag/duffel bag
  • Mystic Adventure Holidays t-shirt and trekking maps are yours to take
  • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits
  • An achievement certificate as a souvenir
  • Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
  • All government and local taxes
Excluded
  • Nepalese visa fee
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Domestic flight (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu)
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and/or Pokhara
  • Extra-night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain (due to any reason) compared to the scheduled itinerary
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
  • Tips for guide(s), porter(s), 12% of You Pay and driver(s)
Essential Info

Difficulty level of the tour

The difficulty level of the Upper Mustang jeep tour is graded as easy to moderate depending upon the experience level. Even if it is a tour, there are still challenges. For example, the terrain of the upper Mustang is rugged, and sitting on the seat can cause strains on the back and hip.

The maximum elevation that you will reach during the tour is 3,840 meters (12,600 feet). At this altitude, some people may feel uncomfortable. While the jeep handles most of the distance, you may need to walk to reach the sites at some places.

Best time for the tour

The best time for the tour to Upper Mustang by jeep is from March to May and September to November. Even though you can go for the tour all year round, for the best experience, you have to choose these months.

In these months, the temperatures are mild, and the weather conditions are stable, making a perfect atmosphere for long-distance tours like the Upper Mustang tour. You can enjoy the clear views of the snow-capped peaks and surrounding landscapes.

Permits required for the tour

The permits required for the Upper Mustang driving tour are the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit, and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card.

For these permits, you will need documents like a copy of their passport, two passport-sized photos, A completed application form for each permit, A detailed itinerary of the trek and payment for the respective fees.

Accommodations and Food Options

The accommodation options on the Mustang tour packages are standard lodges having shared rooms and common bathrooms. Some lodges in the lower elevations may offer the private rooms if available. All the essential amenities are provided in the lodges. 

The food options that you will have on these lodges include oatmeal, cornflakes, toast, Tibetan bread, boiled eggs, pancakes, fried noodles, momo (dumplings), spaghetti, fried rice, traditional Dal Bhat (a typical Nepali meal set), and so on.

  • Telephone, Internet, and electricity

The Upper Mustang tour package includes staying in the standard lodges that have good electricity and wifi. However, the cost of the telephone bills, Wi-Fi services, and device charging is not included in the Mustang tour package price.

Major towns like Jomsom and Lo Manthang have basic cellular coverage. While in remote settlements like the Muktinath area, the network coverage may be limited. You may also struggle to get a good network during the jeep ride through the rugged terrains.

Electricity is available in the major towns like Jomsom, Lo Manthang, Kagbeni, Samar, and Tsarang. The power supply may be low sometimes. Most of the lodges and tea houses also offer solar charging facilities for the electronic devices.

Most of the tea houses offer wifi services. The speed is consistent in places like Pokhara, Tatopani, Kalapani, and Marpha, while it may be unreliable in the Muktinath area. The internet speed may also be slow when there are crowds using the same wifi. You can use the mobile data as an alternative.

  • Toilet and shower facilities

The Upper Mustang jeep tour package includes the tea houses that have better toilet and shower facilities. In the upper Mustang region, the tea houses and lodges feature squat-style toilets. You can find the western-style toilets in the lower regions like Tattopani and Pokhara.

In terms of showers, several teahouses offer shower facilities at an additional cost. You can have hot water baths often offered with bucket-style bathing. The showerhead-style bathing is rarely available in the lodges and teahouses, especially in the mid or higher regions.

Gear and equipment

The Upper Mustang jeep tour itinerary is long and includes traveling to the various altitude levels having varying weather conditions. So, you will need the varying gear and equipment needed for it. Some of the recommended gear and equipment are: 

  • Clothing like thermal base layers (top and bottom), Fleece or soft-shell jacket, Waterproof/windproof jacket and pants, 2 long-sleeve quick-dry shirts, 2 T-shirts, Lightweight hiking trousers, Sturdy hiking boots, Sun hat or beanie, gloves, sunglasses with UV protection, and a scarf or buff, and so on.
  • Gears like A duffle bag and Water bottles (hard plastic).
  • Personal items like quick-drying towels, biodegradable soap, toothbrush/paste, deodorant, personal hygiene products, basic first aid supplies, Personal medications, Power bank, chargers, camera, notebook, pen, snacks (high-energy bars), map/GPS device, pocket knife, and more.

Customized itineraries, packages, trip extensions, and cost

The upper Mustang Jeep tour itinerary can be customized, and trips can be extended further based on your preferences and fitness level. The customization of the tour itinerary means side trips to nearby landmarks, more comfort and so on.  Some of the package options are:

  • Upper Mustang tour package from Kathmandu
  • Upper Mustang tour package from Pokhara
  • Upper Mustang tour package for Nepali (Special)
  • Upper Mustang tour package for SAARC countries (Special Edition)

The trip extensions include visiting the nearby villages, monasteries, or viewpoints, or even extending your tour to include other destinations. As a mystic adventure representative, we will organize, customize, and extend your touring journey through the Himalayas. In addition, we do this at an affordable Upper Mustang jeep tour price.

Tips to make the journey smooth

  • Choose the best season for touring the upper Mustang via jeep. 
  • Book the tour with a reputable agency like Mystic Adventure Holidays.
  • Submit necessary documents, including travel insurance details, to the agency before the tour.
  • Carry enough cash with you, as there may not be an ATM available on the trail.
  • Bring a power bank and a universal travel adapter with you.
  • Pack wisely, include all the essential items, and leave unnecessary items at home.
  • Carry water bottles and snacks to have on the way.
  • Discuss safety protocols with your tour operator. 
  • You can tip any amount you like to the crew members. To give you a general idea, this is what we recommend: USD 100 to the tour guide, USD 50 to the assistant guide, and USD 2 to the driver. You can hand the tip directly to the person in an envelope.
FAQs

The Upper Mustang Trek is a difficult to moderate-level trek. It is neither easy nor strenuous. It all depends on your trekking experience, fitness, and endurance level. 

The biggest reason for the Upper Mustang being a restricted area is the open border between Nepal and Tibet. This restricted area permit and strict rules are to control illegal activities and maintain border security. Likewise, the region also has many undiscovered caves, huge deposits of minerals, and ancient cultural heritage.

To reach Mustang from Kathmandu, you have to fly or drive to Pokhara. From there, you can fly/drive to Jomsom and trek to Lo Manthang, which takes 4 to 5 days.

On average, the Upper Mustang trek costs around USD 1500 to USD 2100 for 12 days. The price may change if your itinerary is longer. Check our cost include and exclude section for more information, or talk to our representative here for detailed information regarding the Upper Mustang trek cost. 

Mustang is 8084 miles away from Pokhara.

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