Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

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Tange Village of Mustang
Key Information
  • Destination:Nepal
  • Duration:12 Days
  • Trip Grade: Easy
  • Max. Altitude:4,020 m/13,189 ft (Nyi La Pass)
  • Starts/Ends:Kathmandu / Kathmandu
  • Trip Style:Private and Open Trip
  • Group Size:2 Pax to 16
  • Best Time:Spring, Autumn & Summer/Monsoon

Join our Upper Mustang jeep tour if you do not want to trek but wish to explore the Himalayas. Upper Mustang is the rain shadow area of the Himalayas in Nepal with a very distinct climate, terrain, vegetation, and landscapes. The jeep tour will allow you to explore this beautiful region without trekking.

You will witness stunning Himalayan mountain views of Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), etc during the tour. In less than two weeks, you will reach the Walled City, Lo Manthang, and discover the ancient monasteries and sky caves.

The Upper Mustang overland tour allows you to be more flexible and reach the most hidden corners of the region, which become limited during trekking. Compared to the famous trekking routes in Nepal, the Upper Mustang trail sees comparatively less elevation gain. On top of that, combining the jeep tour makes the region much more accessible.

People of all ages can do the Upper Mustang Jeep tour, and no prior high-altitude experience is needed. If this is your first time in the Himalayas, then we highly recommend our Upper Mustang Jeep tour 12 days. If you do not mind driving 6 to 7 hours a day regularly for a few days, there is nothing to worry about during the Mustang Jeep tour.

We provide a skilled driver with a knowledgeable guide to accompany you during the Upper Mustang jeep tour. You will use a sturdy alpine 4WD vehicle for the journey. The road is quite nice, and only a few sections are a bit bumpy. You will spend nights in tea houses during the tour.

*Note: You also have the option to upgrade the accommodation to luxury lodges.

What to expect during the Upper Mustang jeep tour?

The Upper Mustang jeep tour is a comfortable and short alternative to the Upper Mustang trek. Long forbidden to the outside world, the Upper Mustang presents a mystical adventure in the heart of the old Buddhist kingdom. Tucked far away from our developed world, the journey to Upper Mustang is a truly unparalleled experience.

The main charm of Upper Mustang is its arid landscapes. During the tour, you will witness unique rock formations, towering cliffs, sandy deserts, mountain passes, canyons, and picturesque settlements. The Upper Mustang overland tour starts from Kathmandu. You will fly to Pokhara and start driving from here to Tatopani.

Driving past small villages, follow the Kali Gandaki gorge and reach Kagbeni (2,900 m/9,514 ft) via Muktinath (3,800 m/12,467 ft). Muktinath is a pilgrimage site in Nepal. The drive continues via Chhusang to Ghami (3,520 m/11,548 ft), crossing the Syanboche La (3,850 m/12,631 ft) and Nyi La (4,020 m/13,189 ft) on the way.

From here, drive past the Ghami River and Tsarang before reaching Lo Manthang (3,840 m/12,598 ft). You will spend two nights in Lo Manthang. During this time, visit centuries-old monasteries like Thubchen Gompa, Chodey Gompa, Jmapa Gompa, and Ghar Gompa. Also, drive to Chhoser, where you will explore the millions of years of sky caves.

The next day, drive past Tsarang, Geling, and Samar villages to reach Chhusang. The road from Chhusand descends to Kalopani via Kagbeni, Jomsom, Marpha, and Tukuche villages. Continue the ride to Pokhara and fly back to Kathmandu. This is the Upper Mustang overland tour itinerary in summary. While in Kathmandu and Pokhara, we recommend you visit the local markets and buy souvenirs.

Tips for Upper Mustang Jeep Tour 2024

This is a jeep tour, so you will spend long hours daily driving from one village to another. So, make sure you can travel without getting car sick.

Meet your doctor and get prescribed medicine that may help you soothe motion sickness.

Carry gums, mints, chocolates, beverages, and snacks to munch during the ride. better buy everything in Kathmandu.

Pack comfortable shoes and slippers to walk around.

Also, pack a lightweight blanket to cover yourself during the ride.

Neck pillow, back pillow, etc will make the journey more comfortable.

The highway to Upper Mustang can get quite dusty, so pack face masks, head covers, glasses, etc.

Why is Upper Mustang a restricted area in Nepal? Do you need to be careful about anything during the Upper Mustang jeep tour?

Upper Mustang shares a border with Tibet and houses a rich cultural heritage along with a vulnerable ecosystem and undiscovered sky caves, which makes it a restricted area in Nepal. Travelers have to get a restricted area permit to travel in the Upper Mustang, which costs USD 500 per person for the first 10 days and USD 50 per person each day thereafter.

Likewise, the part of the itinerary also enters the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you will also need Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit, which costs USD 28 per person. While doing the jeep tour, you may feel free and want to drive to the most untouched parts of the region. We recommend you follow the itinerary and do not wander off alone or ask your guide to drive close to the border.

Why do the Upper Mustang jeep tour with us?

We, Halesi Treks, offer the best Upper Mustang jeep tour cost with top-notch service. Our Mustang Jeep tour price starts from USD 18,00 per person for 12 days. During the tour, we will manage all the logistics and permits, which makes the journey hassle-free for you. Likewise, our team will be with you all the time to support you and answer all your queries.

We have curated our Upper Mustang jeep tour itinerary, making sure you do not spend all the time driving. You will take many breaks along the way and explore the places as you drive. Our transparency to price and policy allows you to travel freely with us. You get what you see. We believe in honest service. If any additional expenses seem to occur, our team will pre-inform you.

Itinerary

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Meet our team at the airport upon landing. After a quick welcome, they will escort you to the hotel. Spend some time unpacking and later meet us in our office for a tour briefing. We will introduce you to your team leader and proceed with permit arrangements and final packing. If you have any questions feel free to ask during the briefing. In the late evening, we will have a welcome dinner together.

  • Max. Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft
  • Meals: Welcome dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Today, you will be traveling to Pokhara. Take a short domestic flight to Pokhara, enjoying aerial views of the snow-capped western Himalayan mountains. Upon landing, the guide will drop you at the hotel at Lakeside. Explore Phewa Lake and the Lakeside Market later in the day. You have the full day free, so take this time and visit some tourist sites like Davis Falls and Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave.

  • Max. Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 25 minutes

On this day, you will be driving to Tatopani. From Pokhara, you will drive to Beni, enjoying views of villages, hills, and mountains. From Beni, the road gets bumpy till Tatopani. Pass by small towns and villages on the way. Tatopani is famous for its natural hot springs. After a long ride, soaking your body in natural hot springs will be quite delightful.

  • Max. Altitude: 1,190 m/3,904 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6/7 hours
  • Distance: 110 km/68 miles

The ride continues to Kagbeni today. You will also visit the Muktinath Temple on the way. It is one of the very important pilgrimage sites in Nepal. On the way, witness views of barren hills and snow-capped mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho Peak, and Nilgiri. The road is uneven.

  • Max. Altitude: 3,800 m/12,467 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 5/6 hours
  • Distance: 95 km/59 miles

The drive continues from Kagbeni to Ghami village. You have officially entered the Upper Mustang. Enjoying the views of unique rock formations and barren sceneries reach Tangbe village. From here, you will drive to Chussang and follow a scenic route to Syanbochen. Views of Damodar Danda, Tilicho Peak, and Yakawa Kang are seen along the way. Soon, you will cross the Syanboche La and continue to Nyi La (4,020 m/13,189 ft) before descending to Ghami.

  • Max. Altitude: 4,200 m/13,779 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 26.6 km/16.5 miles

We will have a delicious breakfast in Ghami and begin driving from here to Lo Manthang, the last forbidden kingdom of Upper Mustang. The route crosses the Ghami river and passes by mani walls and stupas to Tsarang. Gradually ascend to Lo La pass and drive from here to Lo Manthang. Today, you will get to see stunning views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Tilicho Pea, Bhrikuti Peak, etc.

  • Max. Altitude: 3,840 m/12,598 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 3-4 hours
  • Distance: 16 km/10 miles

You will spend one more day in Lo Manthang before returning. The day begins early because you have a lot to explore on this day. Visit ancient monasteries like Thubchen Gompa, Chodey Gompa, Jmapa Gompa, and Ghar Gompa. Drive to Chhoser, where you will explore the sky caves. Later, spend time with locals, observing their lifestyle and culture.

  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

You will drive from Lo Manthang to Chhusang on this day. The ride is long and passes many remote villages like Tsarang, Geling, and Samar. Witness the views of red cliffs, barren hills, sandy fields, and snow-capped mountains on the way. It will be a bumpy ride, but the views will reward you for all the troubles.

  • Max. Altitude: 3,050 m/10,006 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6-7 hours
  • Distance: 32.4 km/20 miles

Leaving Chhusang, you will drive to Kalopani. The route mostly descends via small villages and forests. You can notice the change in scenery as you get close to Kalopani. On the way, you will drive past Kagbeni, Jomsom, Marpha, and Tukuche villages. Enjoy apple orchards and lovely mountain views during the drive.

  • Max. Altitude: 2,530 m/8,300 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 4/5 hours
  • Distance: 36.6 km/22.7 miles

From Kalopani, you will drive back to Pokhara. The road follows the Kali Gandaki river and drives past Beni Bazaar. You will be following a winding off-road along high hills. On the way, see small markets, lush forests, villages, and rivers. Spend the evening relishing the beautiful sunset at Phewa Lake, and enjoy your evening in Pokhara.

  • Max. Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 5/6 hours
  • Distance: 125 km/77.6 miles

Take a morning flight back to Kathmandu. Spend the whole day in Kathmandu resting and exploring tourist sites like Monkey Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Boudhnath Stupa. Explore local markets and buy souvenirs. In the late evening, we will have a farewell dinner.

  • Meals: Breakfast and farewell dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 25 minutes

Our team will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport. Be ready on time to leave the hotel. They will pick you up from your hotel's lobby and also bid you our last goodbye.

  • Meals: Breakfast only

Trip Cost Details

What's Included
  • Arrivals and departure transportation  International Airport and transfer to hotel
  • Accommodation 2 nights in Kathmandu and 2 nights in Pokhara with breakfast
  • Private jeep from Pokhara to Pokhara
  • From Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu Airfare
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trip
  • Accommodation guesthouse during the trip
  • Salary, insurance, food, accommodation for guides and drivers
  • Special Permit of Upper Mustang and ACAP Permit
  • Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)
  • Government taxes and service charges
What's not Included
  • Nepal Entry Visa Fee
  • Personal Travel Insurance 
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • City Tour in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Personal expenses (mineral water, alcohol, and soft drinks), bar bills, personal tips, etc
  • Tips for guides, porters, and driver
Dates & Availability

The Above given cost is per person and the Above-given Upper Mustang Jeep Tour fixed departure dates are available for you. If the given date is not favorable then please contact us and we will happily customize your trip on dates more appropriate for you.

Useful Information

Upper Mustang jeep tour difficulty

The Upper Mustang jeep tour is for all ages of travelers. The road is not well made in a handful of sections, so the ride will get quite bumpy. Apart from the high altitude and limited tourist infrastructure, the Upper Mustang overland tour does not have many difficulties.

To make the journey smooth, we provide sturdy vehicles that are made for offbeat terrain and climates like the Upper Mustang. You also have an option to upgrade your vehicle to a bit better and more luxurious model for the tour. There is no long trekking involved in this tour. You will only walk leisurely around villages.

Altitude difference:

The Upper Mustang overland tour starts from Kathmandu, which is at 1,400 meters (4,593 ft). From here, you will drive to Pokhara (822 m/2,697 ft) and continue to Kagbeni (2,900 m/9,514 ft) via Tatopani (1,190 m/3,904 ft). The highest point during the Upper Mustang tour by jeep is Nyi La pass at 3,950 meters (12,959 ft).

Similarly, Lo-Manthang is situated at 3,840 meters (12,598 ft). Overall, from Kathmandu to the highest point on this trip, the altitude difference is 2,550 meters (8,366 ft). If you are worried about altitude sickness during the Upper Mustang jeep tour, then you do not have to worry because this tour has a very low risk of it.

Follow the below guidance to avoid altitude sickness during the Upper Mustang jeep tour 12 days:

  • Make sure you are hydrated throughout the journey. Drink lots of water and other fluids.
  • Driving long hours can be very exhausting, so frequently stretch your body, have energy-packed food, and get lots of sleep.
  • Be aware of altitude sickness symptoms like headache, nausea, vomiting, difficulty in breathing, insomnia, etc. Inform your guide right away if you see these symptoms and take proper first-aid.

Tips for beginner travelers:

As a beginner traveler in the Himalayas, we highly recommend you pack for all kinds of weather, even if you are traveling during the best seasons. Moreover, Upper Mustang is quite different in terms of scenery than other famous trekking routes in Nepal, so better research about the region, climate, terrain, and views for a lovely experience.

Emergency response:

If you get sick during the overland tour or if any situation arises that requires immediate evacuation, we will get you out of the region via helicopter flight. So, travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage is important for the Upper Mustang overland tour.

Our rescue team is always on standby during our trips in the Himalayas. We have a proper emergency plan for adverse situations that guarantees your safety. Do note that choosing us means you will be traveling with a reliable team.

Is travel insurance necessary for an Upper Mustang jeep tour 12 days?

Yes, travel insurance is necessary for the Upper Mustang Jeep tour of 12 days. Travel insurance is recommended to provide you with prompt rescue in the event of any emergency during the trip. As it assures the rescue expenses, it is easy for us to provide you with helicopter evacuation or medical assistance on time.

The best time to do the Upper Mustang overland tour

You can do the Upper Mustang overland tour in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. The weather is stable, with minimal precipitation. This ensures that the trails are dry and accessible, reducing the risk of landslides and other weather-related challenges. Days are warm, and the nights are not excessively cold, allowing for an enjoyable overall experience.

Likewise, the Upper Mustang region lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, so it receives less rainfall compared to other parts of Nepal. This makes it possible to undertake the overland tour summer/monsoon season (June to August) as well. But you may come across bad weather and poor trail conditions for the first 3 days of the tour.

Accommodation and Meals

Accommodation and meals during the Upper Mustang overland tour are pre-booked by us. You will spend nights in tea houses that offer basic accommodation. These are typically family-run establishments that provide a bed in a shared room with common bathroom facilities. In major places like Jomsom and Kagbeni, there are comfortable lodges with private rooms and attached bathrooms.

Meals in Upper Mustang often revolve around locally available ingredients. You can expect a variety of Nepali and Tibetan dishes, including dal bhat, momos, thukpa, thenduk, chapati, curries, Tibetan bread, noodles, porridge, soups, stews, etc. Vegetarian options are widely available. Fresh vegetables, lentils, and dairy products are commonly used in the local cuisine.

Upper Mustang Jeep Tour FAQs

  • If you are thinking of traveling to the Upper Mustang in a jeep, then it will cost you around USD 1,900 to USD 2,500 and above per person. Likewise, if you are planning to do the Upper Mustang trek, the cost will be around USD 1,800 to USD 3,500 and above per person.

  • Yes, you can go to Upper Mustang by car. There is an off-road leading up to Lo Manthang and other areas of Upper Mustang.

  • Upper Mustang is a restricted area to protect and maintain border security with Tibet. Likewise, Upper Mustang also has many important historical, cultural, and architectural components, which makes it a restricted area in Nepal.

  • The best season to travel to Upper Mustang is spring, autumn, and summer/monsoon. If you are traveling in the summer/monsoon season, choose the timing wisely to avoid the heavy rainfall nuisances at lower elevations. Once you enter Upper Mustang, there will be no rain.

  • The Upper Mustang starts from Kagbeni onwards. It comprises the northern two-thirds of the Mustang District of Gandaki Province, Nepal.

  • The temperature during the daytime goes from 18°C to 28°C in the peak trekking seasons. Likewise, during the night, the temperature drops from 0°C to -2°C. In winter, the region gets extremely cold.

  • In Upper Mustang, the locals speak Loke. The life of the locals in the Upper Mustang is highly influenced by the Tibetans, including the language spoken by them.

  • From Kathmandu, you can reach Upper Mustang either by trekking or driving. You also have the option to take a helicopter flight to Upper Mustang.

  • Mustang is located 462 kilometers (287 miles) away from Kathmandu. Upper Mustang is the north-central part of Nepal, bordering Tibet.

  • Upper Mustang is a semi-desert. It is a rain shadow area in Nepal and has a trans-Himalayan climate. The landscape and terrain match the Tibetan plateau.

  • No, it doesn't rain in the Upper Mustang because it is under the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Areas like this do not receive rainfall.

  • There is WiFi in some villages along the Upper Mustang trail. You can pay a few dollars for the service, but the connections may not be stable all the time because of remote location and unstable weather.

Price Per PersonUS$1750US$2000
Group Discount Price
Number of PeoplePrice Per Person
6 - 12 pax
US$1800
3 - 5 pax
US$1900
2 pax
US$1950
2 adults x US$1950Total US$3900
Upper Mustang Jeep Tour Testimonials
What Our Clients Say?
Tripadvisor
  • Upper Mustang

    I had the chance to meet Man Kumar Tamang in October 2009. At that time he guided our Langtang - Gosainkunde trekking. It turned out to be an unforgettable experience. Not only because of the beauty of Nepal as a country but also because of the excellent mountain guiding skills of Man Kumar. Driven by the positive experience we decided to come back to Nepal this year 2012 for trekking in Upper Mustang. Again guided by Man Kumar Tamang and again it turned out to be an experience to cherish for life. Man Kumar not only guided our trip but also took care of the full organization - planning - booking - and team selection. He is not only a reliable, highly experienced guide but also a very friendly and honest person. Even in stress situations he manages to stay focused and does whatever is in his power to come up with the best possible solution. If you consider traveling to Nepal I would highly recommend his services. You will be surprised by the warm & personal approach, not only by Man Kumar himself but also by the selection of team members who might join you on your trip.

    Hilde Waele
    Hilde WaeleBelgium,November 16, 2017
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  • Great teams

    Just a few lines of comment on an incredible trekking in the Upper Mustang region in Nepal during 2 weeks in Oct 2012. The journey, led by our Tour leader Man Kumar Tamang, was a memorable experience. The scenery in this region is of the utmost beauty. This trek is exceptional in its kind because of the variety; You come across ancient Tibetan villages, Buddhist arts all in the surroundings of the beautiful Himalayan mountains. We were led by Man Kumar and his team, who are top professionals and have the expertise and experience to give every tourist a wonderful time in their amazing country!! It was a privilege to meet these guys and share so many special moments!! All the best to the team and continue the good work!! Big hugs, Sarah

    Sarah Telen
    Sarah TelenBelgium,October 18, 2012
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  • Upper Mustang camping trek and Langtang

    I had the chance to meet Man Kumar Tamang in October 2009. At that time he guided our Langtang - Gosainkunde trekking. It turned out to be an unforgettable experience. Not only because of the beauty of Nepal as a country, but also because of the excellent mountain guiding skills of Man Kumar. Driven by the positive experience we decided to come back to Nepal this year 2012 for a trekking in Upper Mustang. Again guided by Man Kumar Tamang and again it turned out to be an experience to cherish for life. Man Kumar not only guided our trip but also took care of the full organization - planning - booking - team selection. He is not only a reliable, highly experienced guide but also a very friendly and honest person. Even in stress situations he manages to stay focused and does whatever is in his power to come up with the best possible solution. If you consider traveling to Nepal I would highly recommend his services. You will be surprised by the warm & personal approach. Not only by Man Kumar himself but also by the selection of team members that might join you on your trip.

    Hilde Waele
    Hilde WaeleBelgium,October 18, 2012
    logo
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