Kathmandu to Muktinath & Upper Mustang Jeep Tour - Approximately 8-10 Days

Overview:

A trip covering Muktinath, and Upper Mustang is an incredible journey through diverse landscapes, cultures, and spiritual sites. This itinerary focuses on a jeep tour, which is a popular and efficient way to explore these regions.

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Upper Mustang is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making it perfect for both driving and exploring. Upper Mustang is also a rain-shadow area, so it can be visited during the monsoon (June to August) as it receives very little rainfall, offering unique green landscapes.

Permits: Keep in mind that Upper Mustang is a restricted area, and you will need a special permit (Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit) in addition to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit. These permits will be arranged by us.

Here's a possible itinerary for a Kathmandu, Muktinath, and Upper Mustang jeep tour:

This itinerary combine driving with short walks and exploration. The driving times are estimates and can vary depending on road conditions, weather, and stops.

Day 1: Drive Kathmandu to Pokhara (822m)

• After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

• The drive takes approximately 6-8 hours, offering views of rivers, terraced fields, and small towns.

• Upon arrival, check into your hotel in Pokhara.

• Enjoy a leisurely evening by Phewa Lake.

• Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 2: Drive Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720m) & Kagbeni (2,810m)

• Start your adventurous drive early. The road from Pokhara to Beni is relatively good, but after Beni, the road conditions become rougher as you enter the Kali Gandaki Gorge.

• Pass through Rupse Waterfall and other picturesque villages.

• Reach Jomsom, the district headquarters of Mustang.

• Continue driving to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. This is where your restricted area permit will be checked.

• Explore the ancient village of Kagbeni.

• Overnight in Kagbeni.

Day 3: Drive Kagbeni to Ghami (3,490m) via Chele, Syangbochen

• Today, you enter the restricted area of Upper Mustang.

• The drive takes you through a dramatic landscape of barren hills, wind-eroded cliffs, and unique rock formations.

• Pass through villages like Tangbe and Chhusang.

• Continue uphill to Chele, Samar, Syangbochen, and Ghiling, enjoying stunning views and chortens along the way.

• Reach Ghami, a traditional Mustang village with a significant monastery.

• Overnight in Ghami.

Day 4: Drive Ghami to Lo Manthang (3,840m) via Tsarang

• Continue your drive towards Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Upper Mustang.

• Visit the longest mani wall in Mustang and the Ghar Gumba (Lo Gekar Monastery), one of the oldest monasteries in the world.

• The drive offers breathtaking views of the arid landscape and distant snow-capped peaks.

• Arrive in Lo Manthang and check into your guesthouse.

• Explore the fascinating walled city.

• Overnight in Lo Manthang.

Day 5: Explore Lo Manthang

• Full day for exploring Lo Manthang and its surroundings.

• Visit the Royal Palace, the Jhampa, Thupchen, and Chodey Monasteries, which house ancient murals and statues.

• You can also opt for a jeep excursion to nearby villages like Chhoser, featuring ancient sky caves (Jhong Cave) and monasteries.

• Experience the unique culture and traditions of the Loba people.

• Overnight in Lo Manthang.

Day 6: Drive Lo Manthang to Muktinath (3,800m)

• Begin your journey back, taking a different route or retracing some steps for varied views.

• Drive from Lo Manthang towards Muktinath. This can be a long driving day.

• The drive from Upper Mustang to Muktinath takes approximately 2-3 hours from Kagbeni/Chhusang, but the total time from Lo Manthang will be longer.

• Upon arrival at Ranipauwa (the closest point by road to Muktinath), take a short walk (about 20-30 minutes) or hire a pony/local jeep to the Muktinath Temple complex.

• Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, a revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, known for its 108 waterspouts and eternal flame.

• Explore the surrounding temples and monasteries.

• Overnight near Muktinath (Ranipauwa/Jharkot) or drive down to Kagbeni/Jomsom if time permits and suitable accommodation is available. Staying higher up allows for an early morning Muktinath visit.

Day 7: Drive Muktinath to Tatopani (1,190m)

• After breakfast, drive down from Muktinath.

• Continue your descent along the Kali Gandaki River.

• Reach Tatopani, famous for its natural hot springs.

• Relax and rejuvenate in the hot springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties.

• Overnight in Tatopani.

Day 8: Drive Tatopani to Pokhara (822m)

• Enjoy a scenic drive back to Pokhara.

• The road condition improves as you get closer to Pokhara.

• Upon arrival, you'll have free time to explore Pokhara, do some last-minute souvenir shopping, or enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake.

• Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 9: Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,350m)

• After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu.

• The drive takes approximately 6-8 hours.

Important Considerations:

• Accommodation: In Upper Mustang, accommodation will be in basic guesthouses/teahouses.

• Food: Meals in Upper Mustang will be simple Nepali and Tibetan dishes. In Pokhara and Kathmandu, you'll have more variety.

• Altitude Sickness: While a jeep tour minimizes strenuous trekking, acclimatization is still important. Stay hydrated and be aware of any symptoms of altitude sickness, especially in Lo Manthang (3,840m).

• Road Conditions: Roads in the Mustang region, especially beyond Beni, can be rough, dusty, and prone to landslides during the monsoon season. A 4WD jeep is essential.

• Permits: All the necessary permits will be taken in advance.

• Flexibility: Road conditions, weather, and unforeseen circumstances might require adjustments. It's always good to have some buffer days if possible.

• Local Culture: Be respectful of the local culture and traditions, especially in the remote villages of Upper Mustang.

• Budget: This trip involves special permits and 4WD vehicles, so it can be more expensive than standard treks.

Enjoy your incredible journey through the mystical landscapes of Mustang!