Introduction

The privilege to trek towards the world's most preserved area with a thrilling experience of Heli return is a wonderful experience to hold once in a time. Upper Mustang region Known as "Last Forbidden Kingdom" is now opened since 1992 for trekkers with special authority to which a permit approved by Nepal Government is given; after all the preservation of hidden arts, cultures, and primitive lifestyle of Himalaya people resides within this territory. Firstly we take a flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. Then the trek starts towards the Upper Mustang making a way from the unique place named "Kagbeni".

Upper Mustang Trek And Heli Return

Crossing the Kali gandaki bridges and some other small rivers. Kagbeni presents number of time-honoured villages and monasteries such as- ancient Red monastery including traditional musical instrument. We can see the view of hills, sheep raring, rolling the prayer's temple, making a steps forward and passing through the prayers flags along with the breeze of Himalaya number of small settlements. The cluster of settlement in Chele, Ghilling and Charang are some of the amaze balls of this region that makes the visitors sense the ancient Buddhist culture, lifestyle, cuisine, housing pattern and many more.

The way now ahead towards the capital of former kingdom, "Lo Manthang". There numerous of significant things since many centuries ago such as-the home of last king of Mustang, palace and monasteries of Jampalakhang from the 15th century. Monastery of Choede Lakhang from 18th century and many gompas and monasteries existing for thousands of years. Upper Mustang being a land rain shadow of Himalayas with the limited scattered greenery can be visited throughout the year.

The man made caves at Lo-Manthang at the higher cliffs seems to be a hidden story. Being hypothesized by many local people which can be true and lefts everyone wonder-struck. Take a pleasing flight from Lo-Manthang with a spectacular picturesque of Upper Mustang to have the perfect taste of trekking to a wondrous land making a match up to extreme joy. The never ending beauty of Upper Mustang gives an adventure that is experienced once in a lifetime. Capture it from every corner.

Trip Features:

  • Upper Mustang Trek Is the trekking towards the world's last preserved area that makes every person feel like the fortune of traveling back to time of the Buddhist land with an added thrill made by Heli's return.
  • Upper Mustang resides behind the mount Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. It has captured the significant architecture and adopted same kind of culture, tradition and lifestyle of ancient Tibetan community. Most preserved region in world. Which is one of the best place to trek in Nepal that takes into the real Tibetan environment.
  • The highest point to run every step towards the wilderness of Upper Mustang is around 4,000 meter above from the sea level.
  • The adventure of steepy landscapes with windy atmosphere, exploring the flora and fauna where mules carries loads along the way. People at upper mustang practice peculiar food habit. Exploring the Himalaya beauty more closely are some of the fascinating things that a travelers gets to encounter with.
  • The traveller gets an opportunity to understand the divergent culture of upper mustang practiced since classical times. Grab a chance to explore Amgyal Gompa, Tingkhar, King’s palace, amchi (traditional Tibetan doctor) museum and school;]. Many Gompas and monasteries presenting significant values.
Trip Code

AMT - HELI - 104

Trip Code

Spring & Autumn

Trip Grade

Challenging

Max Altitude

Lo Manthang (3,840m/12598ft)

Accomodation

Teahouses/Lodges

Transportation

Flight/Jeep or Bus

Meals

BB/Full Board

Group Size

Any

Quick Enquiry

Trekking Map

Trip Itinerary

DAY
  • 01
    Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.

    Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
    Distance: Approx. 7 km

    Our 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 Board
    Max Altitude Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,592 ft)
    Accommodation Hotel
  • 02
    Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

    Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs drive
    Distance: 200 km 

    Early 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 Board
    Max Altitude Pokhara (822 m/ 3947 Ft)
    Accommodation Hotel
  • 03
    Fly to Jomsom and trek to Kagbeni.

    Duration: Approx.20-25 minutes flight and 2-3 hrs trek
    Distance: Approx.7km (walking)

    Start your day with an early morning flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. Enjoy a scenic flight between the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. After breakfast in Jomsom, begin your trek following the Kali Gandaki River. The moderate trail winds through a stunning desert-like landscape. Arrive at Kagbeni, a traditional Tibetan-style village, one of the oldest in the Himalayas. Explore the village with views of Nilgiri and surrounding peaks.

    Meals BB/ Full Board
    Max Altitude Kagbeni (2,810 m/ 9,219 ft)
    Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges
  • 04
    Trek from Kagbeni to Chele.

    Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
    Distance: Approx. 11.3 km

    After breakfast, follow the east bank of the Kali Gandaki River through a wide dry valley with rugged Himalayan landscapes. After 2 hours, reach Tangbe, a charming village with whitewashed houses, narrow alleys, and apple orchards. Continue on a trail with gentle ups and downs, passing red rock formations typical of Mustang. Arrive in Chele, a peaceful village offering your first taste of Upper Mustang's Tibetan culture and dry desert environment.

    Meals BB/ Full Board
    Max Altitude Chele (3,050 m/10,006 ft)
    Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges
  • 05
    Trek from Chele to Syanbochen.

    Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
    Distance: Approx. 11.5 km 

    Today’s trek involves a steep ascent westward and along a deep canyon. Climb rocky trails, descend steep sections, and ascend again to a pass with views of the Kali Gandaki River and Samar village. Visit the red-painted cave monastery, Rangchyung Chorten, believed to be visited by Padmasambhava and Atisha. Trek through gorges and high cliffs before reaching Syanbochen.

    Meals BB/ Full Board
    Max Altitude Syanbochen (3,475 m/11,401 ft)
    Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges
  • 06
    Trek from Syanbochen to Ghami.

    Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
    Distance: Approx. 9.2 km

    Cross three high passes today: Yanda La, Nyi La, and Ghami La. Pass through Geling village and terraced valleys, and visit red Gompas along the way. The landscape becomes more rugged as you continue. Finally, reach Ghami, the third-largest settlement in Mustang

    Meals BB/ Full Board
    Max Altitude Ghami (3,520 m/ 11,549 ft)
    Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges
  • 07
    Trek from Ghami to Tsarang.

    Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
    Distance: Approx. 11 km

    Begin with a visit to Mustang’s longest Mani wall and a group of Chortens. According to legend, this wall is built on the remains of a demon. Ascend gradually to a pass, then walk through barren lands to reach Tsarang, home to the historic Tsarang Chorten and the palace of the former capital of Lo Kingdom.

    Meals BB/ Full Board
    Max Altitude Tsarang( 3,560 m/ 11,679 ft)
    Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges
  • 08
    Trek from Tsarang to Lo Mangthang.

    Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
    Distance: Approx. 11.4 km

    Trek through the Charang Chu canyon and climb steeply after crossing the river. Walk past ancient ruins and dry valleys to the windy Lo La Pass. From here, the walled city of Lo Manthang comes into view. Cross a small bridge and enter this fascinating town.

    Meals BB/ Full Board
    Max Altitude Lo Manthang (3,840m/12598ft)
    Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges
  • 09
    Explore Lo Mangthang.

    Spend a full day exploring the cultural heritage of Lo Manthang. Visit the ancient Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa, and Choprang Gompa. Discover the royal palace, traditional homes, and local lifestyle. Optional excursions include:
    Visit Chosar cave village, Nyamdo Gompa, Jhong Cave.
    Explore Harphu and Nyhu Gompas.
    Visit Namgyal Gompa and surrounding villages.

    Meals BB/ Full Board
    Max Altitude Lo Manthang (3,840m/12598ft)
    Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges
  • 10
    Helicopter flight from Lo Mangthang to Pokhara.

    Duration: Approx. 45-50 minutes flight
    Distance: Approx. 170-180 km

    After breakfast our helicopter will pick up you and you can see lo manthang like bird from sky, enjoy panoramic views of Himalayas and time save with comfort decent. On this day you can enjoy pokhara sighseen tour.

    Meals BB/ Full Board
    Max Altitude Pokhara (822 m/ 3947 Ft)
    Accommodation Hotel
  • 11
    Drive or fly back to Kathmandu.

    Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs drive / 20-30 minutes Flight
    Distance: Approx. 200 km

    After 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 Board
    Max Altitude Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,592 ft)
    Accommodation Hotel
  • 12
    Final Departure. Drop at international Airport as per flight schedule.

    Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
    Distance: Approx. 7 km

    Our representative will drop you at International Airport as per your flight schedule. 

    Meals BB/Full Board
    Max Altitude Tribhuvan Internation Airport (1,338 m/4390 ft)
    Accommodation -

Photo Gallery

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 Kathmandu transportation (Flight/Private vehicle/Tourist coach – choose as per your Package type).
  • 2 Night’s accommodation in Lake side Pokhara in BB Plan.
  • Lo Mangthang to Pokhara by Helicopter Return.
  • 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.
  • Upper 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 Upper Mustang Trek with Heli return 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)

Upper Mustang Trek And Heli Return is a high land adventure trek where trekkers will trek on the way to Lo Manthang and fly Back on helicopter. Thrilling helicopter flight lets you experience the amazing closest view of mighty mountains (Annapurna & Dhaulagiri) and beautiful landscapes covered by from the top.

Regardless, there have been few exceptional accidents, the answer is yes helicopter tours are safe. Following precautions and procedures you will enjoy the safest helicopter ride possible.

Upper Mustang Trek And Heli Return is considered as a moderate trek. There are numerous challenges like the rugged terrain, steep slopes, trekking route through stone stairs and continuous walk of 5 to 6 hours per day until you reach Lo Manthang and then flying back on a helicopter will give you an ultimate bird's eye experience.

The best season for Upper Mustang Trek And Heli Return 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.

The maximum height we will ascend during this trek is up to Lo Manthang (3,840m/12598ft)).

Yes!! The Internet is accessible during Upper Mustang Trek And Heli Return. 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.

The permits required for Upper Mustang Trek And Heli Return are:

  • Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – US$ 500 per person for minimum 10 days and extra 50$ cost per day

According to the standard itinerary our Upper Mustang And Heli Return is of 12 days from your arrival to Kathmandu to farewell at Airport. If you wish to amend the itinerary you have to contact our booking manager; he will prepare the itinerary according to your needs.

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 accessories.

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 staff 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.

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.

Due to the advancement of the trekking industry, we can find enough lodges and tea houses throughout Upper Mustang trekking routes. They offer good food and accommodation. There are different options you can choose according to your needs and budget. Also you should know that at high altitude and remote places the service will be limited.

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 a power bank with you which will be helpful.

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