Mustang Overland Tour

10th Oct, 2023
By: skylinetreks

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is a popular tourist route in Nepal, specifically in the Mustang region, which is located in the north-central part of the country. It's known for its unique and stunning landscapes, ancient Buddhist culture, and the opportunity to experience the traditional Tibetan way of life.

Here's an overview of what you might expect on an Upper Mustang Overland Tour:

Location and Geography: Upper Mustang is a remote and semi-autonomous region in the Mustang district of Nepal, bordering Tibet (China) to the north. It is a high-altitude desert region with breathtaking landscapes, barren hills, deep canyons, and views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
Permits and Regulations: Due to its proximity to the Tibetan border and its historical and cultural significance, Upper Mustang requires a special trekking permit called the "Restricted Area Permit." This is to control the number of visitors and preserve the unique culture and environment.
Cultural Experience: Upper Mustang is often referred to as a "hidden kingdom" and is deeply influenced by Tibetan culture. The region has numerous ancient monasteries, chortens, and mani walls. The culture is rich in Buddhism, and you'll encounter traditional Tibetan houses, prayer flags, and a distinct way of life.
Scenic Beauty: The landscapes in Upper Mustang overland tour from Kathmandu are surreal and captivating. You'll witness the majestic peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, rugged cliffs, deep gorges, and surreal rock formations. The colors and textures of the terrain change dramatically as you explore different parts of the region.
Trekking and Overland Journey: The Upper Mustang Overland Tour usually involves a combination of driving and short hikes. You'll drive along rugged off-road paths, passing through picturesque villages and experiencing the region's unique scenery. The journey offers stunning panoramic views at various points.
Key Stops and Highlights:
- Lo Manthang: The capital of Upper Mustang, known for its ancient monasteries and palace.
- Ghar Gompa: An ancient monastery with beautiful paintings and artifacts.
- Chhoser Cave: A cave complex with intricate designs and architecture.
- Dhakmar and Tsarang: Villages with historic monasteries and scenic landscapes.
Logistics and Accommodation: Accommodations during the tour are usually in guesthouses, lodges, or camping depending on the specific itinerary. It's advisable to go with a reputable tour operator who can organize the logistics, including transportation, permits, accommodation, and guides.

Mustang overland tour itinerary

Day 01: Arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu
Day 02: Kathmandu Valley Sight Seeing Tour
Day 03: Kathmandu jeep drive to Pokhara (910m/2985ft), Duration: 6 hours
Day 04: Pokhara jeep drive to Kagbeni, Duration: 8 hours
Day 05: Kagbeni jeep drive to Charang (Tsarang), (3500m/11482ft)
Day 06: Charang – Hike to the Luri Cave – return
Day 07: Charang jeep drive to Lo Manthang - 3600m/13 km
Day 08: Lo Manthang – Explore the Chosar Cave and the Chosar Village – Return to Charang
Day 09: Charang – Hike to Ghar Gompa – Return to Charang
Day 10: Jeep Drive to Jomsom 37 Kilometers 8-9 Hours
Day 11: Jeep Drive back to Pokhara
Day 12: Jeep Drive back to Kathmandu
Day 13: International Departure/Farewell

Mustang overland tour cost per person US$ 2480 only

Remember, it's essential to be prepared for high-altitude conditions, varying weather, and potentially challenging terrain when embarking on the Upper Mustang Overland Tour.