Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. The rest of the day is yours to relax and adjust to the time zone. If you're feeling energetic, take a stroll around the bustling streets of Thamel, or enjoy the peace of Garden of Dreams. Your guide will meet you in the evening for a briefing about the upcoming Upper Mustang Overland tour.
Today is dedicated to sightseeing in Kathmandu, a city rich in history and culture. You will visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. From there, continue to Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred site for Hindus, and Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Tibetan stupas in the world. In the afternoon, you may explore Durbar Square and the old part of the city. The evening is free for shopping or tasting local Nepali cuisine.
After breakfast, we begin our scenic overland journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a picturesque lakeside city surrounded by stunning mountain views. The drive takes approximately 6-7 hours, passing through lush forests, terraced fields, and local villages along the Prithvi Highway. En route, you will enjoy scenic views of rivers, valleys, and the distant Annapurna Range. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you'll be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax or explore the lakeside area of Phewa Lake.
Today’s drive takes you from Pokhara to Chhusang, a village in the Mustang region at an altitude of 2,980 meters. This journey takes approximately 8 hours, and we will pass through the village of Jomsom, the administrative center of the region. As you drive, the landscape changes dramatically, transitioning from lush greenery to a more barren, high-altitude terrain. The route offers beautiful views of the Nilgiri Mountains and the Annapurna Range. Once in Chhusang, you will check into your lodge and rest for the night.
Today is dedicated to exploring Lo Manthang and its surroundings. The town itself is a fascinating place to explore, with its narrow streets, traditional houses, and Lo Manthang Palace. You’ll also visit the famous Thubchen Monastery, Chode Monastery, and Jampa Monastery, which are important religious and cultural sites in the region. In the afternoon, you’ll take a trip to the Nepal-Tibet border, which is only a short distance away from Lo Manthang. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the historic trade route between Nepal and Tibet and enjoy the serene landscape of the border region. Return to Lo Manthang for a restful evening.
On this day, we drive to Muktinath (3,800 m), an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The journey takes around 6 hours, passing through Kagbeni (2,804 m), a beautiful village that marks the boundary between Mustang and the lower regions of Nepal. As you continue towards Muktinath, the landscape becomes more rugged, with arid hills and mountain views in every direction. Muktinath is known for its sacred temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and the area is also famous for its natural beauty and religious significance. After visiting the temple and surrounding areas, you will drive back to the nearby village for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, we drive back to Jomsom, a journey of about 3 hours. From Jomsom, we continue our drive to Pokhara, which takes an additional 5 hours. This scenic drive gives you one last chance to enjoy the beauty of the Mustang region as you descend from the arid landscapes to the lush, green valleys near Pokhara. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will check into your hotel. The evening is free for you to relax by the lake or enjoy a meal at one of the many lakeside restaurants.
Today, we retrace our steps back to Kathmandu. The drive takes approximately 6 hours, passing through picturesque villages and the Trishuli River valley. As you approach Kathmandu, the landscape transitions back to the green, terraced hillsides typical of the lower regions of Nepal. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. You’ll have the evening free for last-minute shopping, exploring, or simply relaxing after the long journey.
Your unforgettable Upper Mustang Overland Tour concludes today. Depending on your flight time, you may have some free time to explore Kathmandu or purchase any final souvenirs. A representative from Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international flight home, taking with you cherished memories of your adventure through the remote and mystical Upper Mustang region.
The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is a scenic road trip to one of the most remote and culturally preserved regions of Nepal—Upper Mustang. Unlike the traditional trekking route, this overland journey allows you to explore the stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and Tibetan-influenced villages of the Mustang region by vehicle. Traveling by 4WD jeep, the tour takes you through rugged terrain, offering an adventure that combines culture, history, and nature, without the need for extensive trekking. It’s a great option for those who wish to experience Upper Mustang’s beauty and culture but prefer a less physically demanding route.
Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition is committed to providing exceptional travel experiences with a focus on cultural immersion, comfort, and safety. Our local guides are knowledgeable about the Mustang region’s history, culture, and traditions, and our team ensures your safety and enjoyment throughout the journey. We specialize in tailor-made experiences and offer personalized services, ensuring that every detail of your tour is taken care of—from permits to accommodations. Our overland tours are designed to give you a stress-free adventure, with the convenience of a private vehicle and professional guides.
The ideal time for the Upper Mustang Overland Tour is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and excellent visibility of the surrounding mountain ranges. The region lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, so it remains relatively dry throughout the year, making it an attractive destination even during the monsoon season. Winter (December to February) can be very cold, and the roads may be more challenging due to snow and frost, so it is best to avoid this period unless you're prepared for extreme conditions.
For the Upper Mustang Overland Tour, we use sturdy, comfortable 4WD vehicles, typically SUVs or land cruisers, capable of navigating the rough terrain and narrow mountain roads. The vehicles are equipped with comfortable seating and are designed for long-distance travel on challenging roads, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience as you journey through the rugged landscapes of Mustang. Our experienced drivers are well-versed in handling the roads, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the trip.
The Upper Mustang Overland Tour typically takes about 7 to 10 days, depending on the route and itinerary you choose. The journey involves several days of driving through remote regions, with stops in various towns and villages like Jomsom, Kagbeni, and Lo Manthang. The tour also includes time for exploring key cultural sites, such as ancient monasteries, cave dwellings, and the walled city of Lo Manthang. If you wish to extend your tour or add additional destinations, we can customize the itinerary to suit your preferences.
Accommodation on the Upper Mustang Overland Tour typically consists of local guesthouses, teahouses, and simple hotels along the way. While the accommodations are basic, they are clean and comfortable, with private rooms and shared bathrooms. In Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang, you’ll find more developed lodging options. The places you stay will offer a warm and authentic atmosphere, and your meals will usually be local dishes with Tibetan and Nepali influences. Although basic, these accommodations allow you to immerse yourself in the culture and charm of Mustang.
Yes, the Upper Mustang region is a restricted area, and you will need special permits to travel there. The key permits required for the overland tour are:
Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (which allows access to the region)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card These permits must be arranged through a licensed agency, and Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition will handle all the necessary paperwork and ensure that you have all the required documentation for your journey.
No, independent travel is not allowed in Upper Mustang. You must travel with a licensed guide or as part of an organized tour, which is a legal requirement for foreign nationals visiting this region. At Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition, all our Upper Mustang Overland Tours are fully guided, and our experienced local guides will enhance your experience by sharing knowledge of the area’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
The Upper Mustang Overland Tour offers a unique combination of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. Key highlights include:
Lo Manthang:The walled city and capital of Upper Mustang, with its ancient Tibetan-style architecture, monasteries, and palaces.
Cave Dwellings:Explore centuries-old caves carved into the cliffs, used by the region’s early inhabitants.
Monasteries and Chortens: Visit important religious sites like the Ghar Gumba and Tashi Kabum Monastery.
Unique Landscapes:Experience the stunning desert-like terrain, barren hills, and dramatic landscapes, as well as views of the Nilgiri and Annapurna mountain ranges.
Traditional Villages:Visit Tibetan-influenced villages such as Kagbeni, Chele, and Charang, where you’ll interact with the friendly locals and witness the traditional way of life.
Tibetan Culture: Experience the Tibetan culture first-hand through local customs, festivals (if timing aligns), and interactions with residents.
Yes, the Upper Mustang Overland Tour can be combined with other tours in Nepal, such as the Annapurna Circuit, Muktinath, or even Pokhara. Depending on your interests, we can create a custom itinerary that includes additional sightseeing or trekking experiences. Our team at Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition can assist you in planning a complete Nepal tour that fits your schedule and preferences.
The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is generally suitable for most travelers, including families, seniors, and those with limited physical ability, as the tour involves less strenuous activity than a traditional trek. However, the roads can be rough and bumpy, and the altitude can reach up to 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), so it's important to be in good health and prepared for the conditions. If you have concerns about your health or physical ability, please consult with a doctor before booking the tour. We recommend that travelers with any medical conditions or elderly participants consult with our team to ensure the trip is appropriate for them.
Booking the Upper Mustang Overland Tour is easy with Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition. Simply contact us via email or phone to discuss your preferred dates, itinerary, and any special requests. We will provide you with a detailed itinerary and cost breakdown, and once you confirm your booking, we will take care of all arrangements, including permits, transport, accommodation, and the services of a professional guide.
