Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Hiking Friends Travel Nepal will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a leisurely walk through the vibrant streets of Thamel. Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
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Upper Mustang Jeep Tour in Nepal
11Days
Overview
Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal by Overland Adventure
The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is one of Nepal's most remarkable cultural and scenic journeys, taking you deep into the ancient Kingdom of Mustang. Located in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Upper Mustang offers dramatic desert landscapes, centuries-old monasteries, cave dwellings, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang.
This overland adventure is ideal for travelers who wish to experience the beauty of the Himalayas without long trekking days. Traveling by private 4WD jeep allows you to explore remote villages, ancient monasteries, colorful canyons, and breathtaking mountain panoramas while enjoying comfortable lodge accommodations.
Quick Facts
| Duration | 11 Days |
|---|---|
| Destination | Upper Mustang, Nepal |
| Maximum Elevation | 3,840 m / 12,598 ft |
| Transportation | Private 4WD Jeep |
| Accommodation | Hotel & Teahouse/Lodge |
| Best Season | March–May & September–November |
| Permit Required | Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit & ACAP |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Upper Mustang Jeep Tour with Hiking Friends Travel Nepal offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, history, and Himalayan scenery in Nepal's last forbidden kingdom.
Highlights
- Explore Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of the Forbidden Kingdom, with its royal palace and centuries-old Tibetan monasteries.
- Drive through a stark, trans-Himalayan desert of red cliffs, deep canyons, and wind-sculpted landscapes north of the Annapurnas.
- Visit mysterious sky caves near Chosar, Nepal’s longest mani wall in Ghami, and remote villages like Tsarang and Kagbeni that preserve pure Tibetan culture.
- Travel alongside the Kali Gandaki—the world’s deepest gorge—crossing rugged riverbeds and high passes over 4,000m in a sturdy 4WD.
- Access this restricted, permit-only region with minimal crowds, blending rugged adventure with an untouched medieval Himalayan culture.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Enjoy a scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway following the Trishuli River. Pass through charming towns, terraced hillsides, and beautiful countryside before reaching the lakeside city of Pokhara.
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara, Distance: 200 km, Driving Time: 7–8 Hours
Your Himalayan adventure begins as you drive through Beni, Tatopani, Ghasa, Marpha, and Jomsom. Witness dramatic changes in landscape from lush valleys to the arid terrain of Mustang. Explore the ancient village of Kagbeni, gateway to Upper Mustang. Accommodation: Lodge in Kagbeni, Distance: 165 km, Driving Time: 8–9 Hours
After permit verification, enter the restricted region of Upper Mustang. Drive through: Tangbe Chhusang Chele Samar Syangboche Visit traditional villages, colorful cliffs, and ancient Buddhist chortens before reaching Ghami.
Accommodation: Lodge in Ghami, Driving Time: 6–7 Hours
Travel through spectacular Mustang landscapes via: Ghami La Pass Tsarang Village Tsarang Monastery Arrive at the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Mustang.
Accommodation: Lodge in Lo Manthang, Driving Time: 5–6 Hours
A full day exploring the cultural treasures of Upper Mustang. Visit: Royal Palace of Lo Manthang Jampa Monastery Thubchen Monastery Chode Monastery Chhoser Cave Monastery Ancient Sky Caves Learn about the unique Tibetan Buddhist heritage and centuries-old traditions that continue to thrive in Mustang.
Accommodation: Lodge in Lo Manthang
Retrace your route through Upper Mustang before heading toward Muktinath, one of Nepal's most sacred pilgrimage destinations. Visit: Muktinath Temple 108 Water Spouts Eternal Flame Temple.
Accommodation: Lodge in Muktinath, Driving Time: 7–8 Hours
Enjoy a scenic descent through Jomsom, Marpha, Tatopani, and Beni. Return to Pokhara and spend the evening relaxing by Phewa Lake.
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara, Distance: 165 km, Driving Time: 8–9 Hours
Explore Pokhara's major attractions: Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, Bindhyabasini Temple, Phewa Lake, Tal Barahi Temple, World Peace Pagoda, International Mountain Museum.
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Return to Kathmandu through scenic countryside and river valleys. Enjoy a farewell dinner featuring authentic Nepali cuisine and cultural performances.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight schedule. Your unforgettable Upper Mustang Jeep Tour concludes with wonderful memories of Nepal's last forbidden kingdom.
Gear List
Upper Mustang Jeep Tour – Packing List
Essential Documents
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months), Nepal visa, Travel insurance copy, Passport-sized photos, Cash (Nepali Rupees)
Clothing
- Lightweight trekking pants, Comfortable shirts/T-shirts, Warm fleece or down jacket, Windproof and waterproof jacket, Thermal base layer (spring/autumn), Comfortable walking shoes, Warm socks, Sun hat or cap, Warm beanie
Personal Items
- Sunglasses (UV protection), Sunscreen (SPF 30+), Lip balm, Water bottle, Personal toiletries, Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
Electronics
- Mobile phone, Camera, Power bank, Chargers and adapters
Health & Safety
- Personal medications, Basic first-aid kit, Motion sickness medicine (if needed)
Optional
- Binoculars, Trekking poles, Snacks and energy bars, Small daypack
Tip: Upper Mustang is dry, windy, and dusty. A buff, scarf, or face mask is highly recommended for jeep travel on unpaved mountain roads.
Cost Details
What's Included
- Accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara (twin sharing, breakfast included)
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- All domestic transportation as per itinerary
- All meals during the tour
- All the required Permit charges
- Assistant Guide: Provided for groups larger than six people.
- guided tour with all entrance charges
Not Included
- Any extra costs due to delays, natural disasters, or unforeseen circumstances
- Drinks, snacks, hot showers, and Wi-Fi during the trip if applicable
- International airfare to/from Kathmandu
- Nepal visa fee on arrival(15 days: USD 30, 30 days: USD 50, 90 days: USD 125).
- Personal equipment (sleeping bag, warm clothes trekking poles, suitable shoes etc.)
- Special Permits and Fees: Fees for special filming, drones, and camera permits.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver are not included (recommended: USD 8–20 per day, depending on your satisfaction with the service).
- Travel insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Upper Mustang is a restricted region requiring a Restricted Area Permit and ACAP permit.
The tour is easy and suitable for families, seniors, photographers, and travelers who prefer road journeys over trekking.
March to May and September to November are ideal. Upper Mustang can also be visited during the monsoon season due to its rain-shadow location.
Lo Manthang sits at an altitude of 3,840 meters (12,598 feet).
Yes. This itinerary is specifically designed as a comfortable overland jeep tour, allowing travelers to explore Upper Mustang without long hikes.
Experienced local Mustang specialists
Private and customizable jeep tours
Reliable guides and professional drivers
Transparent pricing with no hidden costs
Authentic cultural experiences
24/7 support throughout your journey
Private and customizable jeep tours
Reliable guides and professional drivers
Transparent pricing with no hidden costs
Authentic cultural experiences
24/7 support throughout your journey
Trip Map
Fixed Departures
Aug28
August 28, 2026
Sep3
September 3, 2026
Oct15
October 15, 2026
Nov11
November 11, 2026
