Introduction
Lower Mustang Trek is a perfect combination of natural and cultural experiences in the Annapurna & Mustang regions of Nepal. All the parts are surrounded by the world's popular Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges. We can consider the trek as an easy and scenic is suitable for beginner to experienced trekkers. Highlights of the Lower Mustang Trekking includes comprises of Ghorepani, Poonhill as well as Jomsom, Muktinath where we explore the cultural tradition & lifestyle of indigenous peoples; Gurung, Magar, Thakali, charming villages, landscapes, flora & fauna, ascend to Poonhill viewpoint for tantalizing sunrise view over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massif, explore world’s deepest Kali Gandaki gorge (Valley), holy religious temple.
Explore Lower Mustang: A Hidden Tibetan Kingdom in Nepal
Lower Mustang Trek takes you into the hidden world of Mustang's old Buddhist kingdom, also known as the Tibetan empire and is thus closely related to Tibet. Tibetan Buddhism is still practiced in a very pure form and villages are built in Tibetan style, with whitewashed houses tucked onto the roofs with firewood.
Additionally, the landscape is closely related to Tibet. Mustang lies in the region of a rain shadow and is dominated by the Dhaulagiri family and the Tukuche Range. The villages with their brightly colored fields are like an oasis in lower mustang Nepal has a barren landscape.
Trek Features:
- Short and easy trekking in the Annapurna region combined with Ghorepani Poonhill Trek and Jomsom Muktinath trail.
- Up to Poonhill viewpoint at 3,210 meters for best views of over 20 snow-capped peaks around Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massif.
- Explore the unique culture of hospitable locals with their way of living.
- Visit the holy temple Muktinath, the apple garden of Marpha, and walk along the world’s deepest gorge of Kali Gandaki river valley.
AMT - TREK - 210
Spring, Autumn & Winter
Strenuous
Muktinath (3,795m/12,447ft)
Teahouses/Lodges
Flight/Jeep or Bus
BB/Full Board
Any
Trekking Map
Trip Itinerary
-
01Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel.
Duration: Approx. 20-30minutes drive
Distance: Approx. 7kmOur company representative will welcome you at Tribhuwan International Airport and drive you by private vehicle to hotel. Preparation and briefing about the trip.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,592 ft)Accommodation Hotel -
02Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
Duration: Approx. 7-8hrs drive
Distance: 200 kmEarly in the morning, your guide will pick you up from the hotel. On the way to Pokhara offers scenic views of the Nepali countryside, rivers, terraced hills, and local villages. The bus will stop for breakfast, lunch, and tea/snack breaks along the way. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check in to your hotel and relax. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful walk around Phewa Lake.
Overnight stay in Pokhara.Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Pokhara (822 m/ 3947 Ft)Accommodation Hotel -
03Drive to Birethati and Trek to Ulleri .
Duration: Approx. 2hrs drive and 5-6hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 50 kmAfter breakfast, we take a drive to Birethanti where our trek begins. We walk alongside the Modi River, passing small villages and local farmlands. After lunch at Tikhedhunga, we tackle a steady uphill climb to reach Ulleri – a charming Magar village. The uphill section includes a stone staircase, but rewards you with great views and a sense of accomplishment.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Ulleri (2,050 m/ 6,725 ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
04Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani.
Duration: Approx. 4-5hrs drive
Distance: Approx. 10.2kmWe start our day early with breakfast and begin the trek through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests. The trail offers a mix of gentle ascents and scenic forest paths. In spring, the rhododendrons are in full bloom, turning the trail into a colorful paradise. Along the way, we pass small settlements such as Banthanti and Nangethanti, where we stop for lunch. Upon reaching Ghorepani, you can rest or explore the surrounding area, which offers fantastic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Ghorepani (2,874 m/9,425 ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
05Hike up to Poon Hill and trek to Tatopani.
Duration: Approx. 6-7hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 10.8kmYou’ll wake up around 4:00 AM for a short 1-hour hike to Poon Hill. From the viewpoint, enjoy one of the most iconic sunrises in the Himalayas as the peaks of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and others glow in golden light. After enjoying tea/coffee and sunrise views, hike back to Ghorepani for breakfast. Then we will start our trek downhill to Tatopani. This day offers view terraced field, local settlements with their lifestyle. This day walk is mostly downhill upto tatopani. It has a popular hot spring we will dip there onces we check in the Hotel.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Tatopani (2,380m/7,808ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
06Trek from Tatopani to Ghasa.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 13 kmThe trail ascends gradually alongside the Kali Gandaki River. Enjoy scenic views of waterfalls, terraced hills, and lush forests. You’ll pass through small villages like Dana and Rupse Chhahara (famous for its waterfall) before reaching Ghasa, a peaceful settlement at the edge of the alpine zone.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Ghasa (2,010 m/6592 ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
07Trek from Ghasa to Marpha.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 18 kmTrek through pine forests and cross several suspension bridges. As you ascend toward Marpha, the landscape turns more arid and Tibetan-like. Marpha is a charming village known for its whitewashed houses, apple orchards, and local apple brandy.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Marpha (2,670m/8,757ft).Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
08Trek from Marpha to Kagbeni.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 14 kmWalk along the Kali Gandaki Valley through wind-blown landscapes and dry riverbeds. Pass the town of Jomsom, the district headquarters, before continuing to Kagbeni—a medieval village with mud-brick houses and a historic monastery. It serves as the gateway to Upper Mustang.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Kagbeni (2,800m/9,184ft).Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
09Trek from Kagbeni to Muktinath.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 10 kmClimb steadily along the ancient trade route to the sacred site of Muktinath. The trail offers excellent views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri ranges. Explore Muktinath Temple, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, famous for its 108 water spouts and eternal flame.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Muktinath (3,795m/12,447ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
10Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara.
Duration: Approx. 8-9hrs drive
Distance: Approx. 170 kmAfter breakfast, we begin our drive to Pokhara or fly from Jomsom to Pokhara. The road is rough and bumpy, especially between Muktinath and Beni, but the journey offers spectacular views as we pass through the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge. Arrive in Pokhara by evening. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Pokhara (822 m/ 3947 Ft)Accommodation Hotel -
11Drive or Fly back to Kathmandu.
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs drive / 20-30 minutes Flight
Distance: Approx. 200 kmAfter early breakfast, we drive or flight back to Kathmandu. In drive the journey offers beautiful views of rivers, green hills, and rural villages. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,592 ft)Accommodation Hotel -
12Farewell, departure transfers to Tribhuvan International Airport as per flight schedule.
Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
Distance: Approx. 7 kmOur representative will drop you at International Airport as per your flight schedule.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Tribhuvan Internation Airport (1,338 m/4390 ft)Accommodation -
Includes
- Required numbers of time Airport pick up and drop off as per your flight schedule (international and domestic). All required transfers in Kathmandu too.
- 2 Night’s accommodation in touristic town of Kathmandu in BB Plan (one can choose budget, standard and deluxe).
- Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Birethati transportation Private /Sharing vehicle choose as per your Package type).
- Muktinath - Pokhara - Kathmandu by Private/ sharing vechicle or flight.
- 2 Night’s accommodation in Lake side Pokhara in BB Plan.
- Standard tea house (lodge) accommodation during the entire trekking as per mentioned in itinerary.
- Three meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the entire trek as per mentioned in itinerary.
- A duffel bag, Trekking Map.
- Trekking pole, Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket, Nepali SIM card (Rental basis, if needed).
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit).
- TIMS (Trekker’s Information Manual System) permit.
- Mustang restricted area permit (Special permit).
- An experienced government certified local Trekking Guide.
- Required numbers of highly experienced trekking porters (2:1 ratio).
- Staff’s foods, salary, insurance, accommodation, meals, transportation etc.
- General first Aid Kit.
- A certificate of appreciation (experience certificate) after completing the Trek.
- Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program.
- All government taxes and applicable paperwork.
Excludes
- International Airfare.
- Personal Travel Insurance (essential for high altitude trekking).
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu.
- Alcoholic beverage.
- TIPS for Staff.
Equipment Checklist
Embarking on the Lower Mustang Trek is a thrilling adventure that requires meticulous preparation. Ensuring you have the right gear can make the difference between a comfortable journey and a challenging one. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential equipment needed for the trek, from clothing layers to personal items. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, our comprehensive packing list will help you get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
1. Clothing
Base Layers: Thermal tops and bottoms for warmth.
Mid Layers: Fleece jacket for insulation.
Outer Layer: Insulated down jacket (recommended for high altitudes).
Rainproof/Windproof Jacket and Pants: Essential for unpredictable weather.
Trekking Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants for daytime trekking.
Warm Hat and Sun Hat: A warm beanie for cold weather, and a wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection.
Gloves: Waterproof insulated gloves and lightweight inner gloves.
Socks: Wool socks for cold weather and moisture-wicking socks for trekking.
Gaiters: To keep mud, snow, and debris out of your boots.
2. Footwear
Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support.
Camp Shoes/Sandals: For comfort when relaxing in the tea houses or lodges.
3. Sleeping Gear
Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C to -20°C to withstand cold nights in higher altitudes.
Sleeping Bag Liner: Adds warmth and keeps your sleeping bag clean.
4. Backpack and Accessories
Daypack (25-30 liters): For carrying essentials like water, snacks, and layers.
Duffel Bag: Large, durable bag for porters to carry; waterproof covers are recommended.
Rain Cover: For protecting your daypack from rain.
Trekking Poles: Helpful for stability and reducing stress on knees.
5. Hydration and Nutrition
Water Bottles and/or Hydration Bladder: With at least 2-3 liters capacity.
Water Purification Tablets or Filter: To treat water on the trail.
Snacks: High-energy snacks like energy bars, nuts, and chocolates.
6. Personal and Miscellaneous Items
Headlamp with Extra Batteries: Essential for early morning treks or dark trails.
Sunglasses: UV-protective, high-quality sunglasses to protect against the intense high-altitude sun.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF for sun protection.
Basic First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, blister treatment, antiseptics, painkillers, altitude sickness medication, and any personal medications.
Toiletries: Eco-friendly soap, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes.
Camera and Extra Batteries: Since charging can be costly and unreliable at high altitudes.
7. Documents and Money
Passport and Permits: Passport, visa,TIMS card, and entry permit.
Cash: ATMs are not reliable in the mountains, so bring enough Nepali cash for personal expenses.
Frequently asked question (FAQ'S)
Lower Mustang Trek is a strenuous level of trekking route. Although There are numerous challenges like the rugged terrain, steep slopes, trekking route through stone stairs and continuous walking of 5 to 6 hours per day. That being said Lower Mustang Trek can be undertaken by travelers who have the right attitude and are physically fit.
The prime time for trekking Lower Mustang is during Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (October and November). During these seasons the weather will be clear, you will get long sunlight hours, fewer bugs, flowers will bloom on the way, the charm of the atmosphere can be felt by the heart, magnificent views of the Himalayas can be seen and you can escape the crowd and enjoy the pleasure of trekking.
We only need one permit to trek to Lower Mustang Trek that is:
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – US$ 500 per person for minimum 10 days and extra 50$ cost per day
Yes!! It is recommended to have travel insurance during the trek. It is uncertain that you will not feel sick or get into any accidents during the trek. So, for medical emergencies and as precaution against risks and financial losses that could happen while traveling, insurance is best.
All the equipment/accessories required for trekking will be arranged for you. You will have to pay the amount for equipment. If you personally want to manage any equipment by yourself it’s fine. We have created The Ultimate Trekking Checklist page for your help as It is always better to carry the essential gears and accessorie
Qualified, well experienced, knowledgeable and reliable trekking leaders who have been working in this field professionally for more than a decade will guide you toward the destination and back. You are in safe hands with us, so don’t worry about trekking guides.
Adventure Mountain Trek offers you a lifetime policy through which you can renew your booking amount for another trek although if you want to cancel it then we will refund you as per our trip cancellation terms procedure.
We hire our staffs according to their standards. They should have to go through our selection procedure on which we will check their certifications, qualifications and experience. Hence, Our staff are equipped/trained and insured.
Due to the advancement of the trekking industry, we can find enough lodges and tea houses throughout Annapurna Region trekking routes. They offer good food and accommodation. There are different options you can choose according to your needs and budget.
Yes!! The Internet is accessible during the Lower Mustang Trek. You can access the 3G network on mobile phones. The mobile internet is fast enough to browse and even make video calls. You will get continuous signal during the whole trek but there will be certain dark spots along the trek where connection may drop. There are limited WiFi hotspots during the trek which will charge for usage only some will let you use it for free. So, for internet access we recommend you to buy a SIM and use 3G.
Normally, Within 12-24 hours after ascending a certain height(1,500 to 2,500 meter above sea level) altitude sickness symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, sleep problems, loss of energy, and shortness of breath are seen. In case of any altitude sickness symptoms we will apply medication and descend immediately for acclimatization.
Trekking via the local agency is one of the great ideas for trekkers. There are more local trekking organizations in Nepal. The hard part is you need to recognize whether they are authorized businesses and are members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN).You can view their internet site and profiles commonly all legal organizations will upload their profile along with authorities-legal certificates.
Yes!! You can charge mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek. At most of the places you will get to charge for free but at some places you have to pay some amount to charge. Remember that It is always better to bring your power bank with you which will be helpful.
According to the standard itinerary our Upper Mustang trek is of 14 days from your arrival to Kathmandu to farewell at Airport. Normally on the 10th day of trek we will reach the Muktinath which is at the altitude of (3,795m/12,447ft) from sea level, highest altitude you will be during the trek and descend back. If you wish to amend the itinerary you have to contact our booking manager he will prepare the itinerary according to your needs.
Customer Reviews
TripAdvisor 63+ Reviews
Reviews
This package has no review yet!Add Your Review
Related Packages
VIEW ALL16 travellers are considering this tour right now!