The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is a truly unique and unforgettable journey that begins from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Moreover, it takes travelers deep into one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich regions. Besides, over 5 or 6 days, you will explore ancient Tibetan villages, dramatic landscapes, and the hidden kingdom of Lo Manthang. Nonetheless, the tour follows rugged mountain roads, while also passing through picturesque settlements, river valleys, and windswept cliffs. Along the way, jeep travel allows you to cover more ground than trekking. And at the same time, experience the region’s traditional lifestyle, monasteries, and cultural heritage. In addition, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri ranges. This makes every stop an opportunity for unforgettable photos and lasting memories.
Flexible Start from Kathmandu or Pokhara
Whether you start from Kathmandu or Pokhara, this Upper Mustang Jeep Tour offers a well-organized and seamless journey. From the very beginning, travelers will enjoy comfortable hotel pickups and professional guidance, ensuring the trip starts smoothly. Moreover, jeep travel allows you to cover more ground than trekking, reaching remote villages, high-altitude valleys, and rugged landscapes that are otherwise difficult to access. Along the route, you will pass through picturesque villages, serene river valleys, and windswept cliffs. These passing thus offers unique photo opportunities and chances to interact with local communities.
Scenic Landscapes and Cultural Experiences
Along the way, you will encounter windswept canyons, colorful cliffs, barren Himalayan deserts, and meandering rivers. In addition, the tour offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Nilgiri, and Mt. Dhaulagiri. At every turn, there is a new spectacle of natural beauty and cultural charm, while also passing through picturesque villages and remote valleys. Moreover, you will visit ancient monasteries, prayer walls, and traditional Tibetan villages, where locals preserve centuries-old customs and spiritual traditions. Along the way, travelers can experience the warm hospitality and serene lifestyle of Tibetan Buddhist culture. Ultimately, the combination of breathtaking scenery and rich cultural experiences makes this journey unforgettable.
Lo Manthang – The Cultural Heart
The highlight of the tour is Lo Manthang, the walled kingdom of Mustang. Here, you can explore historic palaces, ancient gompas, and vibrant local markets, all reflecting the region’s rich Tibetan heritage. Nearby, you may as well visit the sky caves of Chhoser. Besides, it is adorned with medieval Buddhist art and inscriptions, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the spiritual traditions of Upper Mustang. In addition, wandering through Lo Manthang allows you to experience the unique lifestyle, customs, and hospitality of the local people. Ultimately, Lo Manthang offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning Himalayan landscapes, making it the crown jewel of this journey.
Visit to the Sacred Muktinath Temple
A highlight of the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is the optional visit to Muktinath Temple. Besides, it is one of Nepal’s most revered pilgrimage sites. Located at the base of the Thorong La pass, this sacred temple attracts both Hindu and Buddhist devotees. Along the way, travelers can admire the stunning Kali Gandaki valley and surrounding Himalayan peaks, making the detour scenic as well as spiritual. Moreover, this visit is seamlessly included in the itinerary at no extra cost. It thus allows you to explore the temple without altering your schedule. Here, you can witness the holy 108 water spouts, traditional rituals, and ancient architecture, offering a unique insight into the spiritual traditions of the region. Ultimately, the Muktinath Temple visit adds a profound cultural and spiritual dimension to your Upper Mustang journey.
Why Choose the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour?
The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of adventure, culture, and comfort in a single journey. Unlike trekking, jeep travel is less physically demanding, while still allowing access to remote villages, hidden monasteries, and off-the-beaten-path sites. Moreover, it offers a unique combination of breathtaking landscapes, cultural exploration, and convenient travel, ensuring that you experience the best of Upper Mustang efficiently and comfortably. As a result, this tour is ideal for those who want to see more, do more, and enjoy more in just 5 or 6 days.
Tour Map
Upper Mustang
Additional information on Upper Mustang Jeep Tour:
Dossier disclaimer:
The trip details here are compiled with due diligence and provided in good faith. However, please be aware that information contained herein is subject to alteration and does not form a contractual agreement between the client and Cordial Trek Pvt. Ltd. The published itinerary is correct at the time of printing. We are always committed to providing you with an enriching and enjoyable trip.
Booking your Upper Mustang Jeep Tour:
We are now offering maximum flexibility for our guests’ convenience to book their trips into the Mustang region as well for 2026, 2027, and 2028. You may thus choose a date that best suits your schedule. Regarding your booking, please select one of the two available options. You may either pay USD 200 per person as a deposit amount to confirm your trip or pay the full amount upfront. Moreover, if you opt for the deposit, the remaining is payable via Online / Card Swipe / Cash. We also accept all of the convertible currencies including USD, AUD, CAD, EURO, GBP, SGD, etc.
Checklist for Upper Mustang Jeep Tour:
Please click here for a complete checklist of items for your Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. We recommend you read it carefully and pack according to your personal preferences. Do note that some items listed are specific to trekking—such as trekking poles, crampons, and duffle bags—which you may choose to exclude for a jeep tour.
Note: To obtain the necessary Upper Mustang special permit and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit), you are required to provide a valid passport copy, a copy of your Nepal visa, and a recent passport-sized photograph at least two days before your scheduled departure date. A scanned copy is preferred, but a clear photo from your phone is also acceptable. Submitting these documents on time ensures a smooth permit process and a hassle-free start to your journey.
Tour starting and ending days:
The duration of the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour adjusts based on your chosen starting point. Begin your adventure in Kathmandu for a six-day itinerary, or select Pokhara to enjoy a shorter, five-day journey. If you start from Kathmandu, the tour includes a scenic drive to Tatopani via Pokhara, whereas starting from Pokhara bypasses the initial long drive. In either scenario, the core of the trip involves traveling the iconic route to Lo Manthang and back, featuring overnight stays in places like Tatopani, Chhusang, Dhakmar, Lo-Manthang, and Jomsom.
Furthermore, each tour day begins around 7:30 AM and concludes in the late afternoon, ensuring a smooth pace with frequent breaks for photo opportunities. Consequently, you will enjoy a seamless travel experience, with breakfast and dinner served at your accommodation and lunch provided en route. Additionally, your guide will offer daily briefings, ultimately delivering a rich, immersive Himalayan adventure from start to finish.
Accommodation during the trip:
During your Upper Mustang Jeep Tour, you will stay in basic yet comfortable guest houses or teahouses. Moreover, all of them now offer private bathrooms. Although the facilities are simple, they remain clean, welcoming, and cozy—perfect for unwinding after a long day on the road. Besides, these teahouses reflect the traditional warmth of Mustang’s true mountain hospitality. It thus allowa you to enjoy nights that are not only restful but also authentically connected to the region’s unique culture.
Note: For added comfort, higher-standard accommodations, including luxurious star-rated hotels, can be arranged upon your preference at an additional cost.
Food:
During the trip, you will enjoy full board meals, with the freedom to choose from a menu featuring both local Nepali dishes and a selection of international cuisines. Breakfast and dinner are served at your overnight teahouses, while lunch is enjoyed en route at scenic spots or small village lodges. Moreover, the meals are freshly prepared, warm, and nourishing—perfect for maintaining your energy throughout the journey.
Note: It is highly advisable to follow a vegetarian diet until the end of your tour. This is because proper toilet facilities are not always available along the remote routes, and vegetarian meals are generally lighter, safer, and more hygienic in such regions. This simple precaution helps ensure a comfortable and worry-free travel experience.
Drinking water during the tour:
Bottled water is available along the route; however, we encourage you to bring a reusable water bottle and treat tap water to help reduce single-use plastic waste. To ensure safe drinking water throughout the journey, we will be pleased to provide water-purification tablets at no additional cost. You may also carry flavoring sachets if you wish to improve the taste. Proper hydration is essential in this region, and we recommend drinking more than 2 liters of water per day during the trip.
Electricity, Charging and Wi-Fi:
Please keep in mind that you are embarking on a journey through remote and culturally rich regions, where modern conveniences are limited. While some teahouses may offer charging facilities or Wi-Fi for an additional cost, these are not always guaranteed and may be intermittent. Therefore, we kindly suggest refraining from planning work or online meetings during the tour. By doing so, you can fully savor the breathtaking landscapes, and authentic culture that make the experience truly unforgettable.
Cash for extras and tipping:
It is advisable to carry Nepali rupees for small personal expenses during the trip, such as tea, coffee, bottled drinks, or Wi-Fi. We recommend bringing the equivalent of approximately USD 100–150 in local currency for these items. Additionally, it is customary to set aside another USD 100–150 for tipping your guide and driver. However, the exact amount may vary depending on the level of service and your personal satisfaction. By planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey throughout your Upper Mustang adventure.
Baggage and weight limit:
There are no strict restrictions regarding your luggage for the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. However, if you have items you don’t need during the trip, you can leave them at Kathmandu/Pokhara hotel for storage at no extra cost. Also, please be advised to take a photo of your bag-tag and keep it safe for easy identification in case the original tag is lost.
Availability of guide:
Every traveler will be provided with a comfortable jeep, a government licensed experienced guide and skillful driver. Additionally, both guide and driver will be insured and well equipped with necessary items and first aid kit.
Highlights of Upper Mustang Jeep Tour:
1. Stay in clean, cozy, and comfortable guest houses or teahouses along the route.
2. Enjoy full board meals, freshly prepared to energize you throughout the journey.
3. Experience hassle-free permits, expertly handled by our team for a seamless journey.
4. Begin your adventure on flexible dates, tailored to your convenience.
5. Choose to start or end your tour in either Kathmandu or Pokhara.
6. Travel in a comfortable jeep, suitable for all age groups.
7. Explore Tibetan villages, monasteries, caves, Lo Manthang, Muktinath Temple, and Himalayan panoramas.
Places You’ll See :
Kathmandu Valley consists of three districts namely Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur. Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal.
1Kathmandu
Pokhara is a metropolitan city in central Nepal that serves as the capital of Gandaki Province. It is the second most populous city of Nepal after Kathmandu.
2Pokhara
Kagbeni is a village in the Muktikshetra rural municipality of Mustang District (Upper Mustang) of the Himalayas, in Nepal.
3Kagbeni
Lomanthang is a rural municipality in Mustang district in Gandaki Province of western Nepal.
4Lomanthang
Muktinath is a temple sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists located in Muktinath Valley at the foot of the Thorong La mountain pass in Mustang, Nepal.
5Muktinath Temple
Tatopani Natural Hotspring offers a rejuvenating experience for visitors.
6Tatopani Natural Hotspring
Travel Itinerary:
Day 1: Drive to Tatopani via Pokhara (Max Altitude: 1,190 m / 3,904 ft)
**This is the first day for travelers beginning their journey from Kathmandu.
Your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Kathmandu at approximately 07:00 AM. You will then travel to Tatopani via Pokhara, an 8–9 hour jeep drive. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and enjoy the evening exploring the settlement at your leisure. Optionally, you may take a relaxing bath at the natural hot spring located very close to your guest house.
Approximate Drive Distance: 307 km / 190 miles
Accommodation: Mountain Guest House
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Drive to Chhusang via Jomsom & Kagbeni (Max Altitude: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft)
**This is the first day for travelers beginning their journey from Pokhara.
After breakfast, you will be driven from Tatopani to Chhusang, a journey of 4–5 hours. Alternatively, if you begin your trip from Pokhara, the drive to Chhusang via Beni, Ghasa, Jomsom, and Kagbeni will take approximately 6–7 hours. You may also choose to take a small detour to the temple of Muktinath, which could add an additional 2–3 hours to your journey.
Upon arrival in Chhusang, you can explore the settlement at your leisure in the evening. Chhusang is located at the junction of the Narshing and Kali Gandaki rivers and is surrounded by striking red, orange, and silver-gray cliffs dotted with ancient cave dwellings. On the way, you will pass through Jomsom, the headquarters of Mustang, known for its apples and strong winds, as well as a checkpoint at Kagbeni, the official entry point to Upper Mustang.
Approximate Drive Distance from Tatopani: 175 km / 109 miles
Approximate Drive Distance from Pokhara: 220 km / 137 miles
Accommodation: Mountain Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Drive to Dhakmar (Max Altitude: 3,810 m / 12,500 ft)
Day three begins with a 5–6 hour journey towards Dhakmar. During the drive, you will pass through Chele, Samar, Syanboche, Chungsi Cave, Ghiling, and Ghami. The Chungsi Cave is a captivating natural wonder revered by both Hindus and Buddhists and is believed to have been a meditation retreat for Guru Rinpoche and Lord Shiva. You will stay overnight at a guest house in Dhakmar.
Approximate Drive Distance: 40 km / 25 miles
Accommodation: Mountain Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4: Drive to Lo Manthang (Max Altitude: 3,840 m / 12,600 ft)
Day four begins with a 5–6 hour drive from Dhakmar to Lo Manthang via Ghar Gompa, Tsarang, and Yara-Ghara. Yara and Ghara are two enchanting villages that offer a glimpse into a traditional Tibetan lifestyle amidst breathtaking landscapes. On the way to Lo Manthang, you will enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Tilicho, and Mt. Annapurna I. In the afternoon, you may choose to visit the major gompas of Lo Manthang, including Jhampa, Thupchen, and Chhoeda. You will stay overnight at a guest house in Lo Manthang.
Approximate Drive Distance: 40 km / 25 miles
Accommodation: Mountain Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Round‑Trip to Chhoser & Drive to Jomsom (Max Altitude: 3,857 m / 12,654 ft)
On day five, you will take a short 30–45 minute jeep ride (depending on track conditions) from Lo Manthang to Chhoser, one of the most iconic sky-cave sites in Upper Mustang. Here, you will explore the ancient Nyphu Cave Monastery, the impressive Jhong (Shija) Sky Cave, and other historic cave monasteries. After your visit, you will return to Lo Manthang for lunch. Following lunch, you will be driven from Lo Manthang back to Jomsom.
Approximate Drive Distance: 130 km / 80 miles
Accommodation: Mountain Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 6: Drive back to Kathmandu/Pokhara (Min Altitude: 1,350 m / 4,429 ft)
On day six, you will begin your return journey towards Kathmandu or Pokhara. The drive back to Kathmandu may take approximately 11–12 hours, while the drive back to Pokhara may take approximately 5–6 hours.
Note: You may inform us in advance if you wish to customize your trip, for example, beginning in Kathmandu and ending in Pokhara, or vice versa.
Approximate Drive Distance to Kathmandu: 354 km / 220 miles
Approximate Drive Distance to Pokhara: 151 km / 94 miles
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
F.A.Q
What is the weight limit for my luggages during the jeep tour?
There are no strict restrictions regarding your luggage for the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. However, if you have items you don’t need during the trip, you can leave them at Kathmandu/Pokhara hotel for storage at no extra cost. Also, please be advised to take a photo of your bag-tag and keep it safe for easy identification in case the original tag is lost.
What about the communication services available during the trekking days?
During the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour, communication services are limited due to the remote terrain. Some teahouses may offer Wi-Fi or mobile coverage, but it is not guaranteed. We recommend not planning work or online meetings, so you can fully enjoy the landscapes, culture, and heritage of Upper Mustang.
What about the meals provided during the trip?
You will be provided with full board meals, breakfast, or complimentary dinner as specified in your respective Trek or Tour package. However, you may choose to purchase additional meals or beverages where available. Full board meals typically include breakfast with an omelet or boiled egg, toast or local bread, and porridge served with fried potatoes. For lunch, you will be served Dal Bhat Tarkari, Nepal’s most popular dish consisting of rice, lentil soup, and vegetable or chicken curry with pickle. Alternatively, you may opt for fried noodles with eggs, chicken, or vegetables. During dinner, you can choose from Dal Bhat Tarkari, Pizza, MoMo, or Spaghetti.
How comfortable is the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour?
The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is designed for comfort and convenience, making it suitable for travelers of all ages. You will travel in a well-maintained, comfortable jeep, ensuring a smooth ride even on rugged mountain roads. Overnight stays are in clean and cozy guest houses or teahouses, most with private bathrooms. Combined with full board meals, hassle-free permits, and flexible daily schedules, the tour provides a relaxed and enjoyable way to explore Upper Mustang without the physical demands of trekking.
What items should I bring (or buy in Kathmandu/Pokhara) for this trip?
You may bring (or purchase in Kathmandu/Pokhara) the following items for this trip:
1. Insulated jacket: Down or puffer jacket.
Note: A high-quality down jacket suitable for the season is available to borrow from Cordial Trek at no extra cost. Travelers may also bring their own if preferred.
2. Other warm clothing: Thermal/innerwear, hat or beanie, gloves, neck gaiter, hiking pants, hiking boots, warm socks, and a towel.
3. Water bottle
4. Backpack: For your valuables and essential items.
5. Sleeping bag: Will be provided by Cordial Trek.
6. Sunscreen
7. Sunglasses
8. Headlamp: For use at night.
9. Toiletries
What are the permits required for this trip?
To travel in Upper Mustang, you will need the Upper Mustang Special Permit as well as the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit). To issue these permits, we require a valid passport copy, a copy of your Nepal visa, and a recent passport-sized photograph at least two days before your scheduled departure. A scanned copy is preferred, but a clear photo from your phone is also acceptable. All permits are handled by our team, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process so you can focus on enjoying your journey.
Can I book this trip as a solo traveler?
Yes, you can book this trip as a solo traveler. While the Upper Mustang permits usually require a minimum of two travelers, we can arrange permits for solo travelers upon special request. Please note that this may involve a small additional surcharge to cover the permit requirements and logistics.
What's Included
Company T-shirt
First Aid
Full Board Meals (Mountain)
Monuments Entrance Fee
Mountain Guest House
Private Bathroom
Private Jeep
Sightseeing Tour
Special Permits
Specially Abled Friendly
Tour Guide
Travel Permits
What's Excluded
Any Personal Expenses
Beverages
Gratuities for your Guide
Travel Insurance
Activities
City Tours
Cultural Program
Day Tour
Hiking
Sunrise
Sunset
Location Map
Why Book With Us?
Book your Trek / Trip /Tour with us for a secure, safe and joyful holiday experience.
