Historical Upper Mustang Jeep Tour 2026 Journey to the Forbidden Kingdom of Lo Manthang
TOUR IN
$3918.88
per person
Availability: 10 places
Beyond the towering Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges lies a dramatic trans-Himalayan land unlike anywhere else in Nepal. Upper Mustang reveals a surreal panorama of wind-carved cliffs, vast red and ochre canyons, deep gorges of the Kali Gandaki River, mysterious sky caves carved into rock faces, and centuries-old monasteries standing guard over silent valleys.
For hundreds of years, Mustang was an independent kingdom ruled by its own royal dynasty, maintaining deep cultural, religious, and trade ties with Tibet and Lhasa. The last king, His Majesty Jigme Palbar Bista, remained a respected spiritual and cultural figure even after Nepal embraced democracy. Because of its sensitive location and unique heritage, Upper Mustang remained closed to foreign visitors until 1992. Even today, special government permits are required, helping to protect this rare Himalayan civilization under the Annapurna Conservation Area Project.
This journey is not only about landscapes — it is a walk through living history.
In the walled capital of Lo Manthang, time seems to stand still. Whitewashed palaces, royal courtyards, chortens, and ancient monasteries echo with centuries of Buddhist traditions. Prayer flags flutter in the wind, monks chant in hidden gompas, and local communities continue a way of life shaped by Tibetan Buddhism, desert farming, and Himalayan trade routes.
The pilgrimage site of Muktinath, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, adds a profound spiritual dimension to the journey. Here, fire, water, earth, and air unite in a powerful symbol of harmony and liberation.
Traveling by jeep allows comfortable access to this remote terrain while still offering close contact with Mustang’s culture, nature, and people. Each day unfolds like a chapter of an epic Himalayan story — from prehistoric cave settlements to royal heritage, from windswept plateaus to sacred temples.
Day 1
Day 1 – Arrival in Nepal: Welcome to the Himalayas
Arrive in Kathmandu, the vibrant heart of Nepal, where ancient temples and colorful streets create your first impression of this mystical land. Our representative greets you at the airport and transfers you to the legendary Yak & Yeti Hotel, a blend of royal history and modern comfort. Rest and recover while the adventure energy builds.
Day 2
Day 2 – Living History: Kathmandu & Patan Durbar Squares
Step into a medieval world. Today, you explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites filled with palaces, courtyards, temples, and living traditions.
In Kathmandu Durbar Square, see the home of the Living Goddess Kumari and exquisite wood carvings. In Patan, the city of artisans, marvel at stone temples, metal statues, and ancient royal architecture. Nepal’s history comes alive at every step.
Day 3
Day 3 – Everest from the Sky & Flight to Pokhara
An unforgettable morning! Board a scenic mountain flight for breathtaking close-up views of Mt. Everest (8,848m) and a chain of snow giants glowing in the sunrise.
After breakfast, fly to the beautiful lake city of Pokhara, nestled beneath the Annapurna range. Relax by the lakeside with peaceful mountain reflections.
Day 4
Day 4 – The Beauty of Pokhara paradise
Explore Pokhara’s natural wonders: serene Phewa Lake boating, cascading Davis Falls, mysterious Gupteshwor Cave, and the Tibetan refugee settlements. The Annapurna peaks watch over the city like silent guardians.
Day 5
Day 5 – Sunrise & Journey Toward Mustang Himalaya
Witness golden sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from Sarangkot.
After breakfast, your legendary Mustang Jeep Adventure begins. Drive along deep river gorges via Beni and Tatopani, famous for natural hot springs. Reach Marpha, the charming Thakali village known for apple orchards, whitewashed houses, and mountain culture.
Day 6
Day 6 – Into the Forbidden Kingdom Mustang
Drive through the Kali Gandaki valley to Jomsom and ancient Kagbeni, gateway to Upper Mustang where permits are checked. The landscape turns dramatically arid, resembling Tibet. Continue past windswept cliffs and caves through Samar and Ghiling to Chhusang.
Day 7
Day 7 – To the Walled Capital: Lo Manthang
A spectacular drive across high desert landscapes, red cliffs, and eroded canyons. Pass traditional villages like Ghami and Charang, with ancient monasteries and fortresses. Arrive at Lo Manthang, the 15th-century walled capital of the former Mustang Kingdom — a hidden Himalayan treasure.
Day 8
Day 8 – Discovering Lo Manthang Forbidden Kindom
A full day exploring this mystical city. Visit centuries-old monasteries like Jampa, Thubchen, and Chode, the Royal Palace, and mysterious sky caves carved into cliffs thousands of years ago. Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture untouched by time.
Day 9
Day 9 – Red Cliffs & Hidden Villages Mustang
Drive back via Charang and the surreal red rock formations of Dhakmar, a photographer’s dream landscape filled with legend and color. Stay in a peaceful traditional village surrounded by high desert beauty.
Day 10
Day 10 – Sacred Muktinath Pilgrimage
Return through Chhusang and Kagbeni toward Muktinath Temple, one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus and Buddhists. See the eternal flame and 108 holy water spouts. Continue to Jomsom via beautiful Marpha.
Day 11
Day 11 – Return to Pokhara lake side Hotel
Drive down through dramatic gorges, waterfalls, and green valleys via Ghasa and Beni back to Pokhara. The lush scenery feels like another world after Mustang’s desert landscapes.
Day 12
Day 12 – Back to Kathmandu & Farewell Celebration
Fly back to Kathmandu with the final mountain views. Free time for shopping or relaxing. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepali farewell dinner with cultural dance — a joyful celebration of your Himalayan journey.
Day 13
Day 13 – Departure Kathmandu International Airport
Transfer to the international airport with unforgettable memories of the Hidden Kingdom of Mustang, where ancient culture, sacred landscapes, and Himalayan grandeur meet.
