Upper Mustang Trek with Luri Gompa

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our correspondent who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Once checked in, we will arrange a pre-trip meeting where we will brief in short about the trek, answer any queries you have and meet your trekking guide as well. After the short brief, you can relax and spend rest of the day at your leisure. Stay overnight at hotel.

This day we will prepare for the trekking and after that we will visit different famous places listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swoyambhunath, Boudhanath and Pashupatinath today. Stay overnight at hotel.

• Kathmandu Durbar Square (World Heritage Site): A historic palace complex showcasing centuries-old royal architecture, courtyards, and temples in the heart of Kathmandu.
• Swoyambhunath: Also known as the Monkey Temple, this ancient stupa offers spiritual vibes and panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.
• Bouddhanath: One of the world’s largest stupas, Bouddhanath is a major pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists.
• Pashupatinath: Nepal’s holiest Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, set along the sacred Bagmati River.

Today you will prepare to begin the journey to Pokhara, beautiful city of lakes. In the morning, after breakfast at the hotel get ready to depart from Kathmandu. We will travel to Pokhara via tourist vehicle which takes about 8-9 hours (200 km). We can explore around lakeside of Pokhara city in the evening. Stay overnight at the hotel.

This day after having breakfast in the early morning, prepare to depart towards Jomsom - the gateway to Mustang region. Drive from Pokhara hotel to airport of Pokhara, 25 minute scenic flight to Jomsom. 

Jomsom is the headquarter of Mustang district. Upon landing in Jomsom prepare to trek towards Kagbeni which takes about 3 hours of walking. 

Kagbeni is one of the famous destinations amongst Hindu pilgrims. Between Jomsom and Kagbeni we will reach the famous black stones that contain the famous Kali Gandaki fossils dating back 40 million years. In the evening, we can explore around Kagbeni and visit Kagchode Thubten Sampheling Gompa which lies there since 1429 and enjoy beautiful landscapes of Kagbeni village.

Today after having breakfast, prepare to trek towards Chuksang which takes about 5 hours of walking.

Today's trek begin along Kali Gandaki River valley. You have to mostly flat and easy, walking through dry, rocky terrain with beautiful views of the surrounding cliffs and mountains. On the way to Chuksang, you will reach Tange village which is famous for its  whitewashed houses, narrow alleys, apple orchards, and a distinct Buddhist chorten.

Continuring the trek from Tangbe, along the eroded red cliffs and rock formations you will reach Chuksang.  Chuksang is a culturally rich Tibetan village located at the confluence of two rivers, marking the gateway into the restricted region of Upper Mustang. Stay overnight at lodge.

Today after having breakfast, prepare to continue the trek towards Samar which takes about 4-5 hours of walking.

The trail begins by crossing the Kali Gandaki River via a steel bridge and then start to ascend through narrow gorges and barren cliffs. Shortly you will reach Chele village and from there walking steeper, rocky terrain before ascending to the Takalese Plateau you will be rewarded with the amazing views of Mustang Landscape like —eroded hills, deep canyons, and distant peaks.

Eventually walking few descending trial & ascending trial you will reach Samar. Samar is a small, quiet village surrounded by trees, where you can relax and enjoy the local life. Overnight at lodge.

Today after having breakfast, you will walk for about 5 hours to reach Geling. First, you climb up from Samar to a ridge, then go down into a big valley past a Buddhist shrine called a Chorten. Next, you walk through a valley with many juniper trees and cross a small stream.

After climbing over a pass, you go down to a small village called Shyangbochen with a few tea shops. From there, the trail goes gently up before descending to Geling, where you will see large barley fields. Geling is a quiet, traditional village in Upper Mustang, surrounded by wide fields of barley and beautiful desert landscapes. Located in a small valley, Geling is a great place to see how people live in the dry Himalayan highlands. It offers great views of the surrounding hills and is a peaceful stop along the Upper Mustang trail. Stay overnight at lodge.

This day after having breakfast, we trek towards Charang which takes about 5–6 hours.

Today’s trek is rich in cultural exploration. As we trek forwards, we cross a small river and walk alongside the longest mani wall in Mustang, beautifully decorated with prayer stones. The trail then climbs to a plateau and heads toward Gekar Gompa — one of the oldest and most sacred monasteries in the region, even older than the famous Lo Gekar Monastery. It's a peaceful and spiritual place, often quiet and less visited.

After visiting the gompa, the trail continues through beautiful barren landscapes and occasional patches of green fields. We cross another pass before descending gently into Charang (Tsarang), a large and fascinating village perched on the edge of a wide canyon. Charang is filled with history — the imposing five-story Tsarang Palace (once home to Mustang’s royal family), an ancient monastery with huge prayer wheels, and a rare library filled with old Buddhist scriptures and paintings.

This day after having breakfast we will trek towards our final destination, Lo Manthang known as the walled city of Lo Manthang, the heart of Upper Mustang.

Leaving Charang, we descend into a canyon, cross a river, and then climb steadily up to the Lo La pass (3,950 m). From the top, the first view of the magical Lo Manthang appears — a cluster of white-washed houses enclosed within ancient walls, set against the backdrop of the vast Tibetan plateau. From Lo La, a gentle descent brings us into the city gates. After settling into the lodge, the rest of the day is free to explore Lo Manthang’s rich culture and history.

Today is a full day to explore the wonders of Lo Manthang. Without the pressure of trekking, you can wander slowly through the ancient alleys and open yourself to the deep spiritual and historical beauty of the region.

You can visit:

Jampa Gompa – The oldest monastery, famous for its huge Buddha statue and intricate mandala paintings.

Thubchen Gompa – A large red monastic assembly hall with beautifully restored 15th-century frescoes.

Chhoede Gompa – The main active monastery, home to many monks and daily rituals.

Royal Palace – A five-story building where Mustang’s last king lived. You can sometimes meet members of the royal family if they're present.

Chhoser Caves – A short trip from Lo Manthang (optional by horseback or jeep) to visit the remarkable Jhong Cave, a multi-story complex of rooms carved directly into a cliff — used as meditation cells, living spaces, and storage centuries ago.

Here each monastery holds deep history, art, and devotion that shaped Mustang’s identity. Walking through the narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, and courtyards offers a true sense of stepping back in time.

Walking the perimeter of the old city wall and soaking in the views of the Tibetan plateau adds even more to the experience. It's a perfect day to slow down and absorb the soul of Mustang.

Today’s trek takes about 6 hours and follows a more remote and less-traveled route. You leave the walled city of Lo Manthang behind and head southeast, crossing highland meadows and open valleys with beautiful views of the Mustang landscape. The trail gently climbs and descends through dry terrain with stunning rock formations and quiet surroundings.

As you move away from the main route, the scenery becomes even more peaceful, and you may not see many other trekkers. You will pass through open hills, cross small streams, and enjoy views of distant villages and snowy peaks. After a steady walk, you arrive at Dhi Gaon, a quiet and traditional village built along the riverbank. The village is small but charming, with stone houses, barley fields, and friendly locals.

Dhi Gaon is known for its simple way of life and peaceful environment. It’s a great place to rest and enjoy the natural beauty and silence of Upper Mustang. You will stay overnight in a local camp or homestay.

Today’s trek is a short and scenic walk, taking about 3 to 4 hours. You leave the quiet village of Dhi Gaon and follow a dry, dusty trail that gently winds through wide open landscapes and canyon-like terrain. The path goes along the river and through rugged cliffs that look like natural sculptures carved by wind and time.

As you walk, you’ll see beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and rugged Mustang hills. The trail is not very difficult, but it can be windy and dusty, so walking at a steady pace is best. Along the way, you might see small caves in the cliffs and locals working in the fields or herding animals.

Yara Gaon is a peaceful and traditional Mustang village surrounded by dry hills and barley fields. The village has stone-built houses, narrow alleys, and a strong Tibetan Buddhist culture. When you reach Yara, you’ll feel the calm and quiet of this remote place.

This day is also perfect for resting and enjoying the local lifestyle. From Yara, you can take a short hike to explore the famous Luri Gompa, a centuries-old cave monastery carved into a cliff, known for its ancient paintings and religious importance. You’ll stay overnight in a local lodge or camp in Yara.

Today is a rest day to explore the spiritual and cultural sites around Yara Gaon. You will take a short trek to Tashi Gompa, a peaceful monastery located nearby. This visit offers a chance to learn about the local Buddhist traditions and enjoy the quiet mountain surroundings.

After spending time at Tashi Gompa, you will trek back towards Sukhang, which takes about two hours. In Sukhang, you will visit the famous Luri Gompa, a cave monastery carved into the cliffs. Luri Gompa is known for its ancient paintings and spiritual importance.

After these visits, you will stay overnight in a camp or lodge in Sukhang, enjoying the calm and beauty of the Mustang region. This day gives you a deeper insight into the rich Tibetan Buddhist culture of Upper Mustang

Day 15: Sukhang (3,450m) – Tange (3,240m)

Today, you will trek for about 5 to 6 hours. The trail mostly goes downhill, passing through peaceful valleys and crossing clear streams like Dhechang and Tangge. Along the way, you’ll see traditional villages, farmland, and beautiful rocky hills typical of Upper Mustang’s dry landscape.

Tange is a small, quiet village known for its unique Mustang architecture and ancient Buddhist chortens (shrines). The village feels very peaceful and remote, giving you a chance to experience local life and traditions.

You will stay overnight in a camp or lodge in Tange, resting well after the day’s trek and enjoying the calm mountain surroundings.

Today’s trek takes about 4 to 5 hours. The trail gradually goes uphill as you leave the village of Tange behind and walk through beautiful high mountain pastures used by locals in the summer. You’ll see wide open spaces with grass, wildflowers, and maybe some grazing yaks or sheep.

The air gets thinner as you climb higher, so it’s important to walk at a steady pace and take breaks if needed. Paha is a quiet campsite surrounded by peaceful nature and great views of the nearby hills and mountains.

You will stay overnight in a camp at Paha, resting and preparing for the next day’s trek.

Today’s trek takes about six hours. You start by crossing the Baha Bhanjyang, also called Cha Cho La Pass, which is a high mountain pass offering beautiful views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. After the pass, the trail descends steadily into a wide valley.

Tetang is a traditional village with strong Tibetan influences. Its stone houses and narrow streets give you a glimpse of ancient Mustang culture. The peaceful village is a great place to rest and learn about local life.

Today’s trek takes about six and a half hours. The trail steadily climbs as you make your way up to Muktinath, a famous holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Along the way, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the mountains and valleys.

You’ll pass through small Tibetan-style villages with traditional stone houses, and might see apple orchards, grazing yaks, and sheep. There are also some interesting caves and temples to discover nearby.

At Muktinath, you can visit the sacred temple and experience the spiritual atmosphere. You will stay overnight in a comfortable lodge, resting after the day’s climb.

Today’s trek takes about 5 hours. You start by descending gently from Muktinath, passing through beautiful valleys and traditional villages along the way. The trail is mostly downhill, making the walk easier compared to previous days.

As you get closer to Jomsom, the landscape changes with warmer weather and greener fields. Jomsom is a lively town and the main hub of the Mustang region, with shops, cafes, and a small airport.

You will stay overnight in a comfortable lodge in Jomsom, resting and preparing for your flight or onward journey.

Today, you will take a short flight from Jomsom back to Pokhara. The flight is about 25 minutes long and offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains and the Kali Gandaki valley below.

Once in Pokhara, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy this beautiful city, known for its lakes, cafes, and mountain views. You can explore local markets or rest at your hotel after the trek.

This day after having breakfast at the hotel, you will prepare to return back to Kathmandu. Again, you will have three options (flight / private vehicle / tourist bus) to return back to Kathmandu. You can choose the favorable option and return back to Kathmandu. It takes 25 minutes by flight, 7-8 hours by private vehicle and 9 hours by tourist bus to reach Kathmandu from Pokhara. Stay overnight at Hotel / Resort in Kathmandu.

Enjoy your last day in Kathmandu before departure. At your scheduled departure time, our correspondent will pick you up from the hotel, transfer you to the airport, and bid you farewell with warm hearts.