Discover the mystical landscapes and rich Tibetan-influenced culture of Upper Mustang. This remote Himalayan trek offers dramatic desert scenery, ancient monasteries, and a glimpse into a preserved way of life, tucked away beyond the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
The Upper Mustang Trek with Ghorepani Poon Hill and Ghandruk is a captivating blend of Himalayan adventure, cultural immersion, and breathtaking landscapes. This unique trekking route takes you from the forbidden kingdom of Upper Mustang—a remote, Tibetan-influenced region once closed to foreigners—to the lush rhododendron forests and panoramic viewpoints of Poon Hill and the traditional village of Ghandruk.
Starting in the stark, wind-eroded valleys of Upper Mustang, the trek leads you through ancient walled cities like Lo-Manthang, past towering cliffs, cave dwellings, and sacred monasteries such as Chhoser and Jampa Lhakhang. Surrounded by dramatic peaks including Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna I, this part of the journey offers a rare glimpse into a preserved Tibetan-Buddhist culture and desert-like Himalayan landscape.
Unlike traditional itineraries, this trip avoids the unpredictable and often delayed flights from Jomsom. Instead of waiting at a windy mountain airport, you'll travel comfortably by 4WD Jeep, saving valuable time and ensuring a more reliable and flexible journey back from the Mustang region.
As you descend from the Mustang region, the trail transitions into the lush greenery of the lower Annapurna foothills. From Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs, you'll ascend through rhododendron forests to Ghorepani, where a pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) rewards you with one of Nepal’s most iconic sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
The journey concludes in Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village offering cultural interaction, stone-paved lanes, and sweeping vistas. This portion of the trek highlights the ethnic diversity of Nepal, from the Tibetan-descended people of Upper Mustang to the warm hospitality of the Gurung communities in the Annapurna region.
Ideal for trekkers seeking a combination of remote Himalayan wilderness and cultural richness, this route combines the forbidden lands of Upper Mustang with the scenic beauty of Poon Hill and Ghandruk. With reliable overland transportation via Jeep, it’s the perfect itinerary for those who want a seamless, high-altitude experience without the hassle of airport delays.
Altitude: 1,400m / 4,593ft
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Take some time to rest after your flight and explore the vibrant streets of Thamel.
Activities: Cultural tour and pre-trek briefing
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Visit Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath. Later, attend a trek briefing and ensure your gear is ready for the journey ahead.
Flight Time: 25 minutes
Drive Time: 5-6 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Tatopani
Enjoy a short scenic flight to Pokhara, followed by a beautiful drive along the Kali Gandaki River to Tatopani. Relax in the natural hot springs surrounded by mountain views.
Drive Time: 4-5 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Kagbeni
Start your adventure into the Mustang region with a scenic drive along the Kali Gandaki Valley. Arrive in Kagbeni, a culturally rich Tibetan-influenced village that marks the entrance to Upper Mustang. Stroll through its narrow alleyways, ancient monasteries, and enjoy views of Nilgiri and surrounding peaks.
Trek Time: 5-6 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Chele
Enter the restricted Upper Mustang region. Cross suspension bridges and desert-like terrain with stunning views of Nilgiri and other Himalayan peaks as you reach Chele village.
Trek Time: 6-7 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Syanbochen
Hike through rugged terrain, passing caves, ridges, and small villages. Cross the Taklam La pass and descend to Syanbochen with views of barren hills and wind-eroded cliffs.
Trek Time: 5-6 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Ghami
Today’s route includes crossing the Yamda La and Nyi La passes. Walk through traditional villages and observe Tibetan culture along the trail. Arrive in Ghami, one of the largest villages in Upper Mustang.
Trek Time: 5-6 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Tsarang
Cross a suspension bridge and hike past long mani walls and ancient chortens. Reach the historical village of Tsarang, home to a fortress-like monastery and dramatic canyon views.
Trek Time: 3-4 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Lo-Manthang
Enter the ancient walled capital of Lo-Manthang. Explore its narrow alleyways, royal palace, and centuries-old monasteries set against a backdrop of high Himalayan peaks.
Activities: Local sightseeing, monastery visits, optional Chhoser cave tour
Overnight: Teahouse in Lo-Manthang
Spend the day exploring nearby attractions such as Jampa, Thubchen, and Chhoede monasteries. Optionally visit Chhoser’s sky caves and enjoy breathtaking views over the Tibetan Plateau.
Trek Time: 6-7 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Drakmar
Take an alternate trail back via alpine meadows and red cliffs. Drakmar’s scenery is strikingly different, with rock formations and ancient caves dotting the cliffsides.
Trek Time: 5-6 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Ghiling
Descend further into Mustang’s dry valleys, passing sacred sites and isolated settlements. Expect windy conditions as you return to Ghiling, a peaceful stop surrounded by farmland.
Trek Time: 5-6 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Chhuksang
Continue your descent through Mustang’s arid terrain, returning to the lower reaches of the Kali Gandaki Valley. Enjoy your last night in the Upper Mustang region in Chhuksang.
Trek Time: 4-5 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Muktinath
Trek to the sacred site of Muktinath, a pilgrimage destination for both Hindus and Buddhists. Visit the Muktinath Temple and experience the spiritual atmosphere and stunning views.
Drive Time: 4-5 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Tatopani
Take a scenic drive down through the Kali Gandaki gorge to Tatopani. Enjoy a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs, perfect for rejuvenating sore muscles after the trek.
Trek Time: 6-7 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Ghorepani
Climb through terraced fields and rhododendron forests to reach Ghorepani, a hilltop village popular for its sunrise views and panoramic scenery.
Hike Time (Poon Hill): 1 hour
Trek Time to Tadapani: 5-6 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Tadapani
Wake early for a sunrise hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) offering sweeping views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Continue trekking through rhododendron forests to Tadapani.
Trek Time: 3-4 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Ghandruk
Descend to the traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk. Enjoy cultural experiences, stunning mountain views, and a visit to the local Gurung museum.
Trek Time: 3-4 hours
Drive Time: 1.5 hours
Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara
Conclude your trek with a gentle descent to Nayapul, then drive back to Pokhara. Relax by the lakeside and reflect on your Upper Mustang adventure.
Flight Time: 25 minutes
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Take a scenic flight back to Kathmandu. Enjoy your final evening with shopping, dining, or revisiting cultural landmarks in the city.
Transfer: Private airport drop
We’ll transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Thank you for trekking with us—namaste and safe travels!
