Mustang Region Trek – Explore the Last Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal
The Mustang Region in northern Nepal is a land of mystery, ancient culture, and stunning natural beauty. Often referred to as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” Mustang remained isolated for centuries, preserving its Tibetan culture, monasteries, and unique desert landscapes. Trekking in Mustang offers a rare glimpse into a world where time seems to stand still, with walled cities, colorful cliffs, high-altitude plateaus, and welcoming local communities.
Whether you are drawn by the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge, or the sacred Chhoser Caves, Mustang treks combine adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes in one unforgettable journey.
Why Trek in the Mustang Region?
Cultural Immersion: Discover centuries-old monasteries, traditional Tibetan villages, and local festivals.
Stunning Landscapes: Explore arid high-altitude deserts, dramatic cliffs, and colorful canyon trails.
Ancient History: Visit Lo Manthang, the medieval capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang, with its palaces and monasteries.
Adventure with Comfort: Mustang treks are moderate in difficulty, with lodges and teahouses in villages along the route.
Restricted Area Access: Trek in a region that requires a special permit, adding exclusivity to your journey.
Popular Mustang Trekking Packages
Here’s a curated list of trekking packages in the Mustang region:
Highlights: Lo Manthang, Chhoser Cave, Charang & Dhakmar villages, high desert landscapes
Difficulty: Moderate
Altitude: Up to 3,770 m / 12,368 ft
Upper Mustang & Tiji Festival Trek – 16 Days
Highlights: Participate in the vibrant Tiji Festival, explore Lo Manthang, and visit remote monasteries
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Season: May
Lower Mustang Trek – 10 Days
Highlights: Kagbeni, Chele, Ghami, scenic views of the Kali Gandaki Gorge
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Altitude: Up to 3,500 m / 11,482 ft
Upper Mustang Trek with Annapurna Circuit – 20 Days
Highlights: Combines Mustang’s desert landscapes with the Annapurna Circuit’s mountains
Difficulty: Challenging
Altitude: Up to 5,416 m / 17,769 ft (Thorong La Pass)
Lo Manthang & Mustang Cultural Trek – 12 Days
Highlights: Focus on cultural experiences, village visits, local homestays, monasteries
Difficulty: Moderate
Altitude: Up to 3,770 m / 12,368 ft
Best Time to Trek in Mustang
Spring (March – May): Mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, clear skies
Autumn (September – November): Stable weather, clear mountain views, perfect trekking conditions
Note: Winter treks are possible but can be very cold and windy. Summer monsoon season is generally not recommended due to restricted flights and dusty trails.
Why Choose Hikers Haven for Mustang Treks?
Expert local guides with Mustang trekking experience
All permits arranged, including Restricted Area Permit
Comfortable teahouse or lodge accommodations along the trail
Porter services available for a stress-free trek
Customizable itineraries for solo, group, or family travelers
Plan Your Mustang Adventure
Trekking in the Mustang Region is more than just a hike – it’s a journey into a timeless landscape and a living cultural heritage. Browse our trekking packages above, or contact Hikers Haven to design a tailor-made Mustang adventure that suits your schedule, experience, and interests.
Mustang Region Trek Comparison Table
| Trekking Package | Duration | Max Altitude | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Mustang Trek | 12–14 Days | 3,770 m / 12,368 ft | Moderate | Ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, desert landscapes, Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, Chhoser Cave |
| Lower Mustang Trek | 6–8 Days | 3,710 m / 12,172 ft | Easy–Moderate | Muktinath Temple, Kagbeni village, Kali Gandaki gorge, apple orchards |
| Jomsom Muktinath Trek | 7–9 Days | 3,710 m / 12,172 ft | Moderate | Sacred pilgrimage to Muktinath, windy Jomsom, Kali Gandaki Valley, views of Nilgiri & Dhaulagiri |
| Upper Mustang Jeep Tour | 8–10 Days | 3,770 m / 12,368 ft | Easy (By Jeep) | Road trip to Lo Manthang, caves, monasteries, Mustang’s dramatic desert terrain |
| Tiji Festival Trek (Upper Mustang) | 14–16 Days | 3,770 m / 12,368 ft | Moderate | Attend the 3-day Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang, colorful Buddhist rituals, cultural immersion |
Which Mustang Trek is Best for You?
Each trek in the Mustang region offers a different flavor of adventure. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:
Best for Cultural Immersion & History → Upper Mustang Trek (12–14 days)
The “Forbidden Kingdom” experience with Lo Manthang, sky caves, and Tibetan culture.Best for Shorter Trekking & Pilgrimage → Lower Mustang Trek (6–8 days)
Muktinath Temple, Kagbeni village, and dramatic Mustang landscapes without long days.Best for Beginners & Pilgrims → Jomsom Muktinath Trek (7–9 days)
Sacred spiritual journey combined with Mustang’s desert beauty.Best for Non-Trekkers / Comfort Travelers → Upper Mustang Jeep Tour (8–10 days)
All the highlights of Upper Mustang accessible by jeep, perfect if you don’t want to trek.Best for Culture + Festival Lovers → Tiji Festival Trek (14–16 days)
Witness the vibrant Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang with monks’ masked dances and rituals.