Trip Facts
Duration
21 days Days
Max. Altitude:
4890 m
Group size
2-10+
Best Time for Visit
Spring, Summer & Autumn
Activity
Trekking/Hiking
Meals
Breakfast,Lunch ,Dinner
DIFFICULTY
Easy to moderate
LOCATION
Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda
Trip Ends
Kathmandu,Nepal
Highlights
- Sacred Damodar Kunda Lake
- Exploration of Upper Mustang
- Restricted Area Adventure
- Breathtaking Landscapes
- Spiritual and Cultural Immersion
Upper Mustang is set within arid an and haunting wilderness amongst wind eroded hills and cliffs similar to a lunar landscape, the region edges the border of Tibet. Because the region is set within the Himalayan Rain Shadow it makes for a wonderful summer trekking experience that is also not particularly difficult.
A Kingdom within Nepal for many years, Mustang retained its own monarch until a few years back. The area was first opened to tourists in 1992 and only then with strict limits on the amount of people allowed to travel there.
The destination is Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang. The town was built on the orders of the first King of Lo in 1380 A.D.ThKali trek follows The Ghandaki Valley with occasional excursions high above the valley walls. Settlements here are scattered with little sign of cultivation between villages, the town stands as a monument to Lo Manthang’s rich history and cultural heritage that flourished centuries ago due to its prominent position on the major ancient salt trade route from Tibet to Nepal.
A maize of ghompas (religious shrines) and houses surround the king’s palace all and Lo mangtang itself is contained within the eight meters high and 700 meters long boundary wall. Along the periphery of the boundary wall are a series of 14 guard towers, built to protect the town from its many envious enemies of the past.
Life here is deeply rooted in religion with chortens, mani walls (inscripted prayer walls) and monasteries everywhere. Prayer flags are found above each house, placed there to send peace to all parts of the earth and the universe beyond.
The journey to Lo Mantang can take as little as ten days although twelve days provide an all round better experience with time to take it all in.Lo Manthang for many people who have been there is considered to be one of life’s true adventures.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After a short rest, you’ll receive a briefing about the trek. You can explore Thamel, a vibrant tourist hub, in the evening.
Today, you will visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. In the afternoon, there will be a final gear check and trek briefing before an early rest.
A scenic morning flight takes you to Pokhara, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After checking in at the hotel, you can explore Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, and the charming lakeside town.
A short morning flight to Jomsom offers stunning aerial views of the Kali Gandaki Gorge. From Jomsom, a moderate trek along the riverbank takes you to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang.
Following the Kali Gandaki River upstream, you enter the restricted region of Upper Mustang. The trail passes through barren landscapes and traditional villages, with panoramic mountain views, before reaching Chele.
A steep ascent leads you to the Taklam La Pass (3,624m), offering mesmerizing views of Tilicho Peak and Yakawa Kang. Descending through Samar village and rugged landscapes, you reach Syangboche.
The trail continues over the Yamda La Pass (3,850m), past chortens and isolated settlements. You cross the Nyi La Pass (4,010m) before descending to Ghami, a remote village surrounded by cliffs.
A pleasant walk across a suspension bridge and past the longest Mani wall in Mustang leads to Tsarang. This village, with its ancient monastery and fortress, is a cultural highlight of the trek.
The trail crosses the Lo La Pass (3,950m), revealing a breathtaking first view of Lo Manthang, the walled capital of Mustang. Exploring the royal palace, monasteries, and the unique culture makes for an unforgettable experience.
A rest day to explore the caves, monasteries, and ancient Tibetan-style houses. You can visit the Namgyal Gompa, the King’s Palace, and the Chhoser caves while immersing in the rich culture of the forbidden kingdom.
Leaving Lo Manthang, the trail descends through desolate landscapes toward Yara, a lesser-known yet culturally rich village. The red cliffs and unique terrain make this a fascinating leg of the journey.
A challenging trek takes you to Ghuma Thanti, crossing high-altitude passes. The remote and isolated setting prepares you for the upcoming journey to Damodar Kunda.
Today, you reach the sacred Damodar Kunda, a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. The pristine alpine lakes, with their spiritual significance and surrounding peaks, create a surreal experience.
After a morning exploration of Damodar Kunda and its holy waters, you retrace your steps back to Ghuma Thanti. The return trek allows for more time to absorb the breathtaking surroundings.
A long descent brings you back to Yara village, where you can rest and enjoy the hospitality of the locals.
The trail today is demanding, crossing dry and barren terrain. Tangye, one of Mustang’s oldest villages, offers stunning landscapes and ancient Buddhist traditions.
Following steep ridges and crossing several small rivers, you reach Chhusang, were terraced fields and traditional houses welcome trekkers.
The final trekking day retraces your steps back to Jomsom, marking the completion of your Upper Mustang and Damodar Kunda adventure.
A morning flight brings you back to Pokhara, where you can enjoy a relaxing day by the lakeside or indulge in adventure activities like paragliding or boating.
A scenic flight returns you to Kathmandu, where you can explore the city, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a farewell dinner.
With memories of an unforgettable trek, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight, concluding your Himalayan adventure.
Cost Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off service, by private vehicles.
- Three nights' hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with BB plan
- Transportation includes
- Three meals per day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), along with one cup of tea or coffee per meal.you can choose only one items per meal.
- Seasonal fresh fruits will be provided every night after dinner
- Accommodation will be in tea houses during the trek, with basic twin-sharing rooms
- An experience English Speaking trained, Government license Holder Guide
- Porter, we assign one porter for every two trekkers, a porter typically carries 20 to 25 kg
- An extra assistant guide is provided for groups with more than 6 participants
- All applicable taxes as per government rules and regulations
- First Aid medical kit, Oxy-meter to check pulse, heart rate and oxygen saturation at higher altitude (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) symptoms)
- Guide and porter salary, food, accommodation and insurance during the trek
- If you need a duffel bag to pack your trekking gear, we provide one free of cost. However, it must be returned after the trip is completed.
- Farewell dinner with traditional Nepali music and cultural dance will be held at a local restaurant
Cost Excludes
- Nepal entry visa fee $50 USD for 30 days visa on arrival.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Extra night hotel accommodation in Kathmandu than itinerary as well as extra trekking days
- Travel insurance and Mountain rescue service (covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation)
- Personal nature expenses (phone, laundry, water, bar drinks, battery recharge, donations, shopping, extra porters, hot shower etc.)
- Entrance fees for Kathmandu Valley sightseeing that cost as well as monasteries and monuments during the trek
- If you are single, Porter cost is extra
- Tips to Trekking staff (Tips is expected)
- Any other expenses that aren’t mentioned in the section above
Equipment
General
- Puffy down jacket (We have rental jackets available for rent
- Four-season (zero degree) sleeping bag (We have rental sleeping bags available form an additional cost
- Daypack (35-45 liters recommended) with rain cover
- Sleeping bag liner
Upper Body
- Sun hat or cap
- Knitted hat/Beanie
- Scarf or neck gaiter
- Headlamp
- Sunglasses
Torso
- Technical fabric base layer (light for warmer months, heavy for colder months)
- Technical fabric short (2) and long sleeve (2) shirts
- Waterproof, windproof shell
- Fleece jacket or pullover
Lower Body
- Technical fabric base layer (light for warmer months, heavy for colder months)
- Hiking pants (2)
- Comfortable pants for inside the teahouses
- Waterproof/windproof outer shell pants
- Hiking shorts
Hands
- Wool or technical fabric liner gloves
- Hard-shell outer gloves (insulated for colder months)
Feet
- Wool or technical fabric warm socks
- Hiking socks
- Liner socks (optional such as silk)
- Trekking/hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
- Ice Cleats /Micro Spikes (For trekking from November to March, it's recommended to include Ice Cleats/ Micro Spikes to prevent slipping on icy or wet surfaces.)
- Casual shoes
- Gaiters (lightweight for dust or heavy for snow in colder months)
Undergarments
- Technical fabric/quick drying is best for underwear (opportunities to launder during the trip)
- Sports bras (women)
- Pajamas or sleeping clothes
Optional
- Power bank or extra batteries
- Cameras and mobile phone
- Cards/book
Peak climbing gear
- Climbing boot
- Crampons and harness
- Hiking boot,slippers
- Carabiners 4 pes (2 lock 2 onlock)
- Ascending device jumar
- Descending device ACT and figure of 8
- Helmet ,ice axe and sleeping bag
- Hiking sucks and warm wool sucks
- Warm expedition gloves and thin treking gloves
- Wind proof pant and jacket
- downsuit,expedition bag 50 ltrs for more then 7000 mt
- expedition down jacket for more then 7000 mt
Customer Reviews
Exprince Trek guide help to safe travel Mar 2026 • Friends It was grate experience with always Himalaya trek,Mr. Sitaram Karki and Mr. Kumar rai, they are well organized and informed, which is help Read more
Santa U
Nepal
Best Trekking experience in my life Oct 2025 • Friends I did the Mera Peak trek with Always Himalaya Trek and it was an amazing experience. From the start, everything felt very personal and well orgRead more
Conal higney
united kingdom
Best Trekking company I have been on 3 treks with Sitaram; Langtang, Annapurna Circuit, and Mera Peak, all of which have been amazing. My most recent Trek was to the top of Mera Peak, the higheRead more
Gerard Melly
Ireland