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Upper Mustang Cultural Jeep Drive Tour – 12 Days
5/5 based on 37 reviews
Trip Duration
12 Days
Group Sizes
2 to 25 People
Difficulty
Moderate
Max. Altitude
3950m
Activities
Meals
Accommodation
The Upper Mustang Cultural Jeep Drive Tour is a comfortable way to explore the hidden landscapes, ancient villages and unique culture of Upper Mustang without long days of trekking. From the perspective of scenic mountain valleys, traditional mountain villages, historic monasteries and vibrant cliffs that have been preserved for centuries, this journey offers an experience of beauty. A 4-wheel drive vehicle lets you explore areas without roads and have the time to take in the views along the way.
The tour begins in Kathmandu at (1,400 m / 4,593 ft) before continuing to Pokhara (822 m / 2,697 ft). From there, it is a trek through the renowned Kali Gandaki Valley to Kalopani, Kagbeni, Ghiling, Lo Manthang, Tsarang and Muktinath. Each day is filled with interesting and rewarding parts of Mustang’s history, local traditions and mountain style.
The Upper Mustang jeep tour is for those who would like to see the beauty of the Himalayas without keeping themselves busy physically. The majority of the travel is done by jeep and some short walking is required to visit villages, monasteries, caves and explore lakes. At the same time, you will pass by the traditional stone houses, the walls of prayer, the chortens and the wind and thousand-year-old landscapes.
Upper Mustang is a well-known region for its cultural affinity to Tibetan Buddhism. There are some customs that the villagers are still following in their villages that have been followed for generations. The ancient walled city of Lo Manthang (3,840 m / 12,598 ft), Luri Cave, Chhoser Sky Caves and Ghar Gompa offer a greater insight into the history and spiritual heritage of the region. There will also be chances to meet locals and get to know them and their daily habits.
Another highlight of the Upper Mustang Overland Tour is the chance to stop at some of the more peaceful landmarks, including Titi Lake, Marpha, Dhumba Lake and the sacred temple of Muktinath at (3,800 m / 12,467 ft). Each stop offers a unique experience, whether it’s a natural wonder, cultural significance or historical interest. It’s a fun drive as you take in the scenery from green hills to dry mountain valleys.
This tour is perfect for families, couples, small groups, photographers or anyone interested in culture, history and mountain landscapes. It offers enjoyable journeys, insightful experiences and genuine local experiences all in one holiday. Mega Treks takes care to plan each aspect of the trip to make it enjoyable, safe and well-planned from start to finish.
The trip starts at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel, where you can relax after your flight. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the nearby streets or simply rest before the adventure starts.
On the second day, you will experience the cultural highlights of Kathmandu. You will be travelling to several UNESCO World Heritage sites and formalities required for entering the restricted area of Upper Mustang will be taken care of. Also, it is the ideal time to meet your guide, ask questions and plan the days.
On the third day, you will drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft) to Pokhara (822 m / 2,697 ft). The picturesque road crosses rivers, terraced fields and rustic villages before it reaches the distant mountains and cultural heritage of Upper Mustang.
Welcome to Nepal. Upon reaching Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our representative, who will drive you to your Kathmandu hotel. The ride to the hotel takes less than 10 minutes and is a pleasant introduction to the busy streets, merchants and old-fashioned buildings of the Nepal capital.
Once you arrive at your hotel, you can find time to recuperate from your trip. When you feel refreshed, you may take a stroll in the streets around, visit the local stores or take a cup of traditional Nepali tea at a local cafe. It’s also a good time to change money or purchase small items you may need during your travels.
At the end of the day, you can be at your hotel, rest and get ready for the wonderful trek into Upper Mustang. Before you embark on the tour, our team will inform you about the tour and answer any questions you may have.
You will start a guided sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley after breakfast. You will be visiting several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which will give you a glimpse of Nepal’s history, culture and religious traditions. They encompass ancient temples, Buddhist stupas and beautiful palace squares, which have been significant for centuries.
Throughout the city, your guide will share information about the history of each monument and local customs and traditions. This tour provides you with an understanding of Nepal before you enter the remote Upper Mustang area.
In the afternoon, finalize the permits for entering Upper Mustang. Another way to prepare is to be sure your bags are packed and that you have everything ready for the road trip. Enjoy another comfy night’s sleep in Kathmandu before heading west.
You will leave Kathmandu and start the scenic drive to Pokhara. The Prithvi Highway winds through green hills, small farms, winding rivers and villages. You will witness daily life in rural Nepal as farmers toil in their fields and residents ride between cities.
Refreshments, photos and lunch will be included in several short stops during the drive! As you proceed, the view changes and on a fine day, you might be able to see snow-capped peaks in the distant Himalayas.
When arriving later in the afternoon or evening, you will arrive in Pokhara, a quiet city near Phewa Lake (822 m / 2,697 ft) ASL. On arrival at the hotel, you have the opportunity to stroll around the lakeside area, with cafés, shops and views of the surrounding hills.
In the morning, after breakfast, depart from Pokhara and head towards Kalopani. The road crosses Beni and then follows the valley of the Kali Gandaki River. The terrain is gradually shifting from green hills to darker valleys bordered by tall mountains as the drive heads towards Tatopani and Ghasa.
The Rupse Waterfall is one of the highlights of today, with water plunging off a high cliff into the river below. A great spot for pictures and fresh mountain air. You will also be able to see the traditional villages in which the locals still live their lives in harmony with nature by the roadside.
Enjoy a quiet evening at the village of Kalopani (2,530 m / 8,301 ft). Stroll around the village if time permits, enjoying superb views of Dhaulagiri and other peaks in the area before getting your night’s rest.
Enjoy a peaceful morning at Titi Lake after breakfast, on a short hike up the trail. The lake is surrounded by hills and forests and is a quiet place to enjoy the fresh mountain air and beautiful reflections on the water. It also has a variety of birds that can be enjoyed before heading back out on the road.
Once back from the hike, head through the Kali Gandaki Valley to Marpha. The apple cultivation, fresh apple products and its well-preserved whitewashed houses make this traditional village popular. Don’t hurry through Jomsom – take time to explore the narrow stone streets and discover the charm of this village.
By late afternoon, reach Kagbeni (2,804 m / 9,199 ft). In the evening, head to the historic Kag Chode Thupten Samphel Ling Monastery, an important Buddhist monastery that has been serving the local community for centuries. Spend the night in this beautiful gateway village to Upper Mustang.
On the morning after breakfast, head back to Kagbeni and cross into the officially restricted area of Upper Mustang. The scenery shifts often green hills are soon replaced by a variety of colours: cliffs, dry valleys, wide open desert-like scenes. The road runs along the Kali Gandaki River and goes through small Tibetan villages where one can still see the traditional Tibetan culture.
En route, you will visit the holy Chhusang Cave, also known as Chhusi Cave. This is a historic site with its unusual rock formations and spiritual significance. Follow the drive with great vistas of deep canyons, striking red cliffs and unusual rock formations formed by wind and water over thousands of years.
Come in the afternoon to the calm village of Ghiling (3,570 m / 11,713 ft). Take time to wander around the village and take in the traditional houses, fields and monastery before unwinding for the evening.
You will drive deeper into Upper Mustang after breakfast to the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang. The drive winds its way through high mountain areas, broad valleys and authentic villages that have scarcely altered over the centuries. Stroll along the way and catch great views of nearby peaks in the Himalayas and of the unique rock formations.
En route to Lo Manthang, stop at Ghar Gompa, which is reputed to be one of the oldest monasteries in Mustang. This holy monastery was established in the 8th century and is a significant spiritual landmark and is closely related to Tibetan Buddhism in this area.
Later, you will arrive in Lo Manthang (3,840 m / 12,598 ft). Visit the walled city and its historic monuments, such as the Royal Palace, the Jampa Lhakhang temple and the monastery of Thubchen and Chode. It’s an excellent chance to discover the rich culture and traditions of the old Kingdom of Lo while strolling its narrow lanes.
You will ride the first morning to a nomad camp nearby. Instil into them a sense of local families that still herd their yaks, sheep and goats in the high valleys of Mustang. During this visit, you will have the opportunity to learn about their daily life, their customs and how they live in this remote area.
After breakfast, head to Chhoser Valley and back to Lo Manthang. Explore the old Ritseling Cave, with valuable wall paintings of Buddhist origin dating from the 9th century. Next is the Chhoser Sky Caves, where hundreds of man-made caves are created on towering cliffs. Living, meditation and burial have taken place in these caves for many centuries.
Before going back, be sure to visit the historical In Phu Monastery and have a tranquil experience. Return to Lo Manthang for a pleasant night’s sleep.
On the morning after breakfast, head out from Lo Manthang to head for the far-out village of Yara. The trek takes you over rough mountain tracks along dry valleys, through brightly coloured cliffs and across expansive open areas, all of which are unique in the Upper Mustang. Enjoy beautiful views of surrounding hills and traditional groups of villages along the way.
You will continue to the sacred Luri Cave (3,950 m / 12,959 ft). The monastery is a place of great beauty and significance and is renowned for its collection of Buddhist murals and its old meditation halls. It is one of the most extraordinary religious heritages in the area with its peaceful atmosphere and historical significance.
Later, you will continue to explore the traditional villages of Yara, Ghar and Tsarang. These settlements are famous for their historical palaces, Tibetan culture and old monasteries. You will visit the village of Tsarang (3,600m / 11,680ft). You can hike around the village or stay in your lodge.
On the return journey to Muktinath after breakfast, you’ll return to the main road. Following breakfast, start driving back to Muktinath along the main road. The remote villages of Upper Mustang are left behind as you pass through dramatic valleys, coloured rock formations and the high mountain deserts. The route is very scenic and is part of the Kali Gandaki Valley.
Continue into traditional villages where local people continue to live their centuries-old lifestyle and customs. The picturesque natural surroundings will be interrupted with time for photos and mini-breaks. In the background, several snow-covered peaks can be seen on clear days.
By afternoon, you will arrive at the sacred village of Muktinath (3,800 m / 12,467 ft). It is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists from all over the world. On arrival at the lodge, sit down and enjoy your evening while getting ready for the next day’s trip to the famous temple.
You will start the day at the sacred Muktinath Temple (3,800 m / 12,467 ft). It is a famous pilgrimage place which is honoured by both the Hindu and Buddhist communities. The temple complex can be visited, the 108 water spouts can be seen and the eternal natural flame that has been burning for many years can be visited.
Then move on to the drive to Pokhara, after visiting the temple. The road passes through the town of Jomsom, then through the town of Marpha, then through the town of Tatopani and finally through the town of Beni, each with a different set of views ranging from dry mountain views to green hills and forests. En route, take a stop at the tranquil Dhumba Lake, a lovely alpine lake with surrounding hills, for a relaxing stop along the way.
You will arrive in Pokhara (822 m / 2,697 ft) by evening. Once you’ve arrived at your hotel, you can take a lazy stroll around the lakeside or simply take your foot off the gas after another great day of travel.
You can cutomize this trip as per your requirements if met the proper guidelines.
The Upper Mustang Cultural Jeep Drive Tour can be done in both spring and autumn when the weather is fairly predictable and the mountain scenery is clear. Spring (March-May) is a comfortable temperature, with wildflowers and pretty roads. September to November is another great time of year, as the skies are clear after the monsoon and ideal for viewing landscapes and taking pictures.
An added benefit of the area is that it is also good for the summer monsoon season. Unlike many trekking areas in Nepal, Upper Mustang is in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, with much less rain. This provides an opportunity for travelers to visit during the months when much of the country experiences heavy rain, the months of June, July and August.
The quietest time of the year is Winter (December – February). It gets very cold, in the higher villages like Lo Manthang (3840 m / 12,598 ft). Lower areas may be inhabited in winter by some local families and windy weather or snowfall can have an impact on travel arrangements. By selecting the proper season, you can ensure a safer and more comfortable travel experience.
The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is an approximately 900–1,000 km (564–621 mi) road trip, including optional stops for sightseeing. Travel starts in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft), then through Pokhara on to Kalopani, Kagbeni, Ghiling, Lo Manthang, Tsarang and Muktinath before returning.
The road passes through river valleys, mountain passes, traditional villages and dry high-altitude landscapes, which are quite different from the rest of Nepal. As you plunge deeper into Mustang, the green hills turn into colourful cliffs and broad open valleys.
There are several tourist spots, including Luri Cave and others, up to (3,950 m / 12,959 ft) above sea level, with the highest overnight stay being Lo Manthang (3,840 m / 12,598 ft). This is a jeep tour, but you will always have a chance to explore the villages, monasteries, caves and cultural sites on foot during the tour.
The Upper Mustang Cultural Jeep Drive Tour is an easy-to-moderate adventure, since the majority of the route is done by jeep, rather than trekking. Hikers are not required to have previous experience, but should be ready for a few days of long drives on rough mountain roads and some walking around villages and historical sites.
Though walking will be restricted, altitude should not be overlooked. Around places above (3500 m / 11 483 ft), some visitors may suffer from mild altitude sickness (headache, fatigue, insomnia, etc.). The risk can be lowered by drinking sufficient water, eating regular meals and avoiding alcohol.
The itinerary has gradual increases so that your body can acclimate naturally. Please tell your guide if you are feeling unwell. Mega Treks arranges the route in a way that allows the travelers to enjoy the trip without compromising their safety and the likelihood of occurrence of altitude-related problems.
The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is primarily a jeep tour, with there being a comfortable amount of walking each day. Most of the days will be spent walking only when visiting monasteries, caves, villages, viewpoints and cultural attractions. This means that it is appropriate for those who would like to travel and see the sights but don’t want to get into long trekking days.
The day you arrive in Kathmandu is often the shortest walking day, with the possibility of walking just around your hotel or down the street or two. During sightseeing days, one can expect to be walking for anywhere from one to three hours at an easy pace, for example, when visiting Lo Manthang or Chhoser Valley.
The longest walking activity is the short walk to Titi Lake and the visits to Luri Cave and the Chhoser Sky Caves. The walks tend to be easy and allow for ample time to stop for rest and photo opportunities. Plenty of comfortable walking shoes and no need to bring along a lot of trekking gear.
The Upper Mustang Cultural Jeep Drive Tour involves staying in a hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara and in a local hotel/guest house in Mustang. Rooms are typically simple, clean and comfortable. Typically, most lodges offer twin-sharing rooms, warm blankets and shared dining spaces where visitors eat their meals.
There are Nepali and International foods on the way. These can be found in many restaurants, including Dal Bhat, noodles, fried rice, soups, pasta, eggs, potatoes and seasonal vegetables. A new apple product to try is also fresh apple juice, dried apples, apple pie and other locally produced apple products in villages such as Marpha.
Water, tea, coffee and soft drinks are available along the way, but at higher altitudes, it is more expensive. It’s a great idea to bring a reusable water bottle with purification tablets or a portable filter to stay hydrated and minimize plastic waste on the way.
The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour follows a well-designed route that enables you to visit the main cultural and historical attractions of the region. The standard tour package includes a trip from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then from Pokhara to Kalopani, followed by a trek to Kagbeni, Ghiling, Lo Manthang, Tsarang and Muktinath and back to Pokhara and Kathmandu. This tour offers ample opportunity to visit monasteries, caves, traditional villages and special scenery.
Several visitors come to stay for longer in Chhoser Valley or Yara to visit the ancient village settlements of caves and the remote villages. Some people will take the trip followed by a visit to Chitwan National Park when they come back from Mustang for a totally different experience.
For any extra time you have, there is an opportunity to visit more cultural sites or spend a longer time in Lo Manthang (3,840 m / 12,598 ft). Mega Treks can arrange for the trip to suit your interests, travel time and available time.
Because there is no long-distance trekking involved, the Upper Mustang Cultural Jeep Drive Tour is suitable for beginning trekkers. The route is mostly Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) and is a good option for families, seniors and anyone seeking to experience Upper Mustang without strenuous hikes.
Being able to sit in a car for several hours a day is a plus, but no experience is required for trekking. There are also short walks to monasteries, caves, viewpoints and villages, but they are generally easy and done at a leisurely pace.
The trip will get up into elevations above (3,500 m / 11,483 ft), so it is still necessary to go on the trip carefully and properly hydrated. You should at this point be able to have a happy time on this memorable cultural adventure if you maintain a positive attitude, are reasonably healthy and follow your guide’s advice.
The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is not a trip for the super physically fit, but it will be more comfortable if you prepare for your trip. Exercising regularly, climbing stairs or doing mild activity for a couple of weeks before departure can help to improve overall fitness and enhance enjoyment of activities enjoyed each day.
Layer up for the day with comfortable clothing as the weather can vary. A warm jacket and gloves are advised, as well as sunscreen and a pair of sturdy walking shoes. Lip balm and moisturizer can also be helpful, as the weather in Mustang can be quite dry and windy.
Hydration and sufficient rest are important, as the highest elevations reached are near 3,950 m / 12,959 ft. It’s also a good idea to have a general health check before leaving home and a general checklist as to any personal medications that may be needed throughout the tour.
Upper Mustang Cultural Jeep Drive Tour goes through the remote villages of the mountains, where modern facilities are available and limited. Hotels and lodges are usually available with electricity so that phones, cameras and other electronic devices can be charged. Few accommodations will charge for charging services, if you’re too far away.
In many of the villages, there is mobile phone coverage, but it gets less reliable as one moves out of the Upper Mustang. Some lodges provide internet access via WiFi or a mobile network, but the internet can be slow and at times unavailable because of weather or technical problems.
It is advisable to carry a power bank as you use your mobile phone or camera a lot during the day. Along the way, there are many good photography opportunities at the monasteries and traditional villages, so extra camera batteries and memory cards are also helpful.
The Upper Mustang Cultural Jeep Drive Tour has to be specially permitted as Upper Mustang is a restricted area in Nepal. All foreigners are required to get a Restricted Area Permit before they enter the area. Furthermore, it also need to be granted an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit due to its crossing of the protected Annapurna region.
These permits will not need to be arranged by you. Mega Treks will process the application after receiving the necessary documents, including a copy of your passport, passport-sized photo, Nepal visa information, etc. This enables you to enjoy your holiday without worrying about paperwork.
Government of Nepal has set the permit regulation and all visitors must follow it. Permits are stamped at multiple points along the road and travelers are required to travel with a licensed guide in Upper Mustang. Always have your passport with you during the tour, in case you are asked to show it to the immigration officials to check your travel documents.
The journey is completed with comfy four-wheel-drive trailers driven to Mustang’s rugged roads by comfortable four-wheel-drive vehicles. It starts with a car ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then into the Kali Gandaki Valley and on to the remote villages of Upper Mustang. These vehicles are specifically selected to meet the needs for safe operation on rough roads, river crossings and high mountain terrain.
The conditions on the roads vary from one part of the journey to another. There are paved roads between Kathmandu and Pokhara and many of the roads in Mustang are gravel or dirt roads. The expert drivers are familiar with the path and skillfully navigate it for a safe and enjoyable ride.
The maximum altitude during the trip is approximately 3,950 m (12,959 ft) when making sightseeing trips. There are frequent halts for meals, photos and brief rest stops as you drive through the various geographical areas to enjoy the trip and give your legs a rest.
The Upper Mustang Cultural Jeep Drive Tour is a drive to distant mountain regions where medical care may be scarce. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance coverage before coming to Nepal. Your policy should include coverage for emergency medical care, hospital costs and emergency evacuation if needed.
This is a jeep tour, but hiking at high elevations can still have unexpected health issues. If you have insurance coverage that includes travel above (4,000m / 13,123ft), then you will have an added layer of safety on the trip. You also wouldn’t want to have a policy that doesn’t include trip delay, loss of bag and weather/other cancellation coverage.
Leave no stone unturned when reading your insurance policy and have a printout and an electronic copy with you before you go. Also, be sure to tell your family and your tour operator what your insurance policy is so help can be made available in case of an emergency.
The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is a great chance to explore the culture, history and landscapes of one of the most interesting areas of Nepal. Along the way, you can see ancient monasteries, historic villages, cave settlements, royal palaces and colorful cliffs that are an important part of the Tibetan Buddhist heritage.
This tour is both a jeep tour and a trekking holiday, as you can access remote areas safely, but still get some walking in for the major cultural and natural highlights. Some of the highlights are Lo Manthang (3,840 m / 12,598 ft), Chhoser Valley, Luri Cave, Muktinath, Marpha and Kagbeni. Every place has its own stories, traditions and gorgeous scenery.
Spend hours on long, rewarding drives; enjoy warm hospitality from locals; experience a simple mountain stay; and enjoy unmissable views along the way. This tour offers a cultural experience along with scenic travel and comfortable overland travel, making it a great alternative to those who do not wish to undertake a lengthy trek to Upper Mustang.
No age limit as such. Well-prepared and well-informed, children, adults and senior travelers can get involved with no problem.
Yes. This itinerary is subject to change depending on your interests and schedule, with more nights, more sightseeing and more destinations possible.
There is a very limited number of ATM services in the Upper Mustang. Better to withdraw a sufficient amount of cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara before embarking on the journey.
Yes. Most villages have bottled drinking water available and the price rises as you go deeper and deeper into the remote mountain region.
Dress in layers for changing weather conditions in a comfortable, loose-fitting manner. A warm jacket, sun hat, sunglasses and sturdy walking shoes are advised.
Yes. Vegetarian dishes are available at most lodges. Please tell your tour operator in advance of the trip if you have a dietary requirement or if you have any food allergies.
Yes. Regular checkpoints with several viewpoints, villages, monasteries and picturesque spots to explore for ample photographic opportunities.
Yes. Most visitors extend their stay in Chitwan or Lumbini or head to other attractions or stay longer in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Himalayan birds, mountain goats, blue sheep, yaks and other local wildlife may be seen during the appropriate seasonal and weather conditions.
Yes. Private trips are also offered for single travellers, couples, families and groups for more flexibility and a personalised trip.
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