Upper Mustang Jeep Tour - 12 Days

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11 reviews
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Duration
12 Days
Trip Grade
Easy
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
3,950 meters
Group Size
Up to 20 Pax
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Best Time
Autumn , Spring and Winter

Major Highlights of the 12-day Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

  • Awestrucking vista of the incredible landscape of the Mustang region
  • Experience desert-like terrain, and rugged canyons, and ride alongside towering mountains including Dhaulagiri and Annapurna
  • Lo-Manthang exploration
  • Immersion into the Tibetan-Buddhist culture
  • Tour old monasteries, witness chortens, and interact with the locals to get further insight into their unique lifestyle and culture.
  • Experience the rough and rugged off-road trip to Mustang
  • Opportunity to capture magical photos of the unique landscape and customs of Mustang
  • Immerse into natural wonders like the Kali Gandaki Gorge, experience the red cliffs of Chhusang, and take in the Moon Valley landscapes

Experience the timeless allure of Upper Mustang on a 12-day Jeep Tour. Also known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” this region gives you a glimpse of a bygone era untouched by modernization's influences. Nestled in northern Nepal, Mustang showcases its Tibetan-Buddhist heritage with pride. Ancient monasteries, traditional villages, and cliff-perched caves dating back centuries are some of the highlights you will find in this region.

On our Upper Mustang jeep tour into the Trans-Himalayan region, we take you across the rugged high-altitude desert-like landscape. You can marvel at the colorful rock formations, deep ravines, and mesmerizing snow-capped mountains.

The spectacular landscape of the region is perfectly complemented by its rich history, culture, and myths. Your Upper Mustang Adventure combines adventure, cultural immersion, and archaeological wonders of the region.

Your Jeep Tour to Upper Mustang takes off from Kathmandu. You will make your way to Pokhara either by road or by flight. From Pokhara, the journey takes you deep into the rural areas of Nepal where you will find different cultures, and lifestyles as you proceed toward Upper Mustang. After several days of driving, you will reach Lo Manthang, the capital of Mustang. On your way back, you will make your way through Jomsom and visit Muktinath – a sacred religious site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

Get Ready for an Adventurous Jeep Ride to Upper Mustang

Enjoy the off-road experience as you explore the remote destinations towards Nepal’s northern border. Also known as “Mini-Tibet”, you will find a different experience from the rest of Nepal. Ideal for history buffs, photography and culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers, this unique travel experience enables you to explore stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Book now for a memorable journey to the ancient kingdom of Mustang on a 12-day Upper Mustang Jeep tour.

Why Go on the 12-Day Upper Mustang Jeep Tour?

Here are some key reasons to take on the unforgettable Upper Mustang Jeep Tour.

Short on Time: The Upper Mustang Jeep tour is ideal for individuals who are traveling for a limited period. Unlike the traditional trek, this jeep tour cuts down on time but takes you to all the highlights of the region, ensuring a comprehensive experience of the region.

Not Physically Demanding: This adventure takes you through off-roads in the comfort of a 4X4 jeep. Since the jeep tour does not require you to make strenuous ascends of the rugged Himalayan terrain, you will find it physically relaxed.

Family-Friendly Adventure: The Upper Mustang jeep tour is possible for people of different ages. Therefore, this can also be an ideal adventure with your family as you can introduce their children to different cultures and historical sites.

Cultural and Historical Exploration: Mustang has remained untouched by the effects of modernization. Every bit of their culture and lifestyle reflects the age-old practices prevalent for centuries. Exploring Mustang allows you to relive the past, experience their unique practices, and be a part of their everyday lifestyle.

The historical significance of the Mustang is equally intriguing. You will find the manmade Sky Caves, locally known as Chhoser Caves, which date back to 800 BC. Sky Caves is a collection of over 10,000 man-made caves carved into the valley walls near the Kali Gandaki River. You will also find Tibetan influences as the region witnessed immense migration from the northern part of the border during the Nepal-Tibet war.

Tourism Development: Your jeep tour to Mustang directly contributes to the growth of the local tourism industry. As a result of your contribution to the economic growth, you will find the locals, and the concerned authority working to preserve and sustain the culture to further enhance the experiences of visitors to the region.

Fascinating Upper Mustang Jeep Tour: A Glimpse into the Tiji Festival

The Tiji festival is a major highlight of Mustang. Held annually in May, with possible shifts in dates due to the lunar calendar, this festival is held for three days where the locals celebrate the triumph of good over evil. The celebration featuring colorful costumes, and fascinating masks is accompanied by thudding sounds of the drums, horns, and prayer chantings.

The origin of the celebration dates back around 500 years and is a commemoration of the reincarnation of Buddha as Dorje Sonam and his triumph over evil. You will find a large mass amassed at the Choede Monastery where the amazing dance ritual is performed for three days. Tiji Festival is celebrated across three days with each day carrying its own significance. On the first day, you will witness a dance recital depicting the story of the demons who created havoc in Mustang. To battle the demons, Dorje Sonam takes birth, represented by the loud crashing of cymbals, blowing of horns, and chants.

On the second day, Dojee Sonam tries to chase the demons away through dance, meditation, and swaying of the sword. The third day shows his triumph. This is represented by the Rha Chham dance. During this procession, Dorjee Sonam, accompanied by the villagers, banishes the devils beyond the walls of the village.

Enjoy a hearty bonfire alongside the villagers to end the three-day festival. The Tiji festival gathers the locals of Mustang into a communal celebration. As age-old practices are still prevalent during this festival, this marks the handing down of lineage brought down from ancient Tibet.

Upper Mustang Jeep Tour Permits

Upper Mustang is a mystical realm situated at an altitude of over 3500 meters. This ancient Himalayan Kingdom only recently opened its doors to tourists. However, even today, you will need the following permits to enter into Mustang.

Restricted Area Permit (RAP): The RAP gives you access to the restricted areas of Mustang. This 10-day permit costs approximately USD 500 per person. If you stay beyond 10 days in the region, an additional USD 50 per day is charged. Visitors must follow a strict procedure to obtain this permit.

  • You will need to file a joint application for 2 or more people.
  • Only a registered travel agency, like Orbit Alpine Adventure, can submit a permit application.

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit: Mustang lies within the boundaries of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project. Therefore, travelers need the ACAP permit to enter the Upper Mustang Trekking trail. The ACAP permit costs approximately USD 20 (NRS 3000).

Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card: The TIMS card stores the data of travelers trekking or traveling to various destinations in Nepal. However, you may not require a TIMS card if you already have the Restricted Area Permit (RAP). For further details, you can contact our representative at Orbit Alpine Adventures.

12-Day Upper Mustang Jeep Tour Cost for Transportation and Permit

The 12-day Mustang Jeep tour costs depend on various factors such as group size, season, and your preferred itinerary. However, Orbit Alpine Adventure delivers an enjoyable package, eliminating all possible hassles, including essential costs. You will traverse the stunning landscapes of Mustang in a scenic jeep ride. The Upper Mustang Jeep tour covers the entire ground transportation. Alternatively, you can customize your trip by opting to fly to Pokhara from Kathmandu and commence your jeep tour from there.

Also, our package covers all necessary permits as Upper Mustang requires certain permits to access the region. With the required permits, you get to explore the region and take in the unique culture and breathtaking scenery.

12-Days Upper Mustang Jeep Tour: Alternative Trekking Trails in Nepal

Upper Mustang is a treasure trove of amazing culture, adventure, and vivid landscape. However, if you are looking for more exploration opportunities in the Himalayas, several alternatives cater to people of different interests and fitness levels.

In the Annapurna region, you can take on the classic Annapurna Base Circuit trek. This iconic trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to high-altitude passes. On your way, encounter charming villages, terraced fields, and stunning mountain vistas. For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, you can go on the Dolpo trek. The Dolpo trek is a journey to the remote and pristine region of Dolpo, where you can immerse in a unique culture, and marvel at the stunning landscape.

If you opt for luxury and opulence, try out the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake helicopter trek. This trek combines the classic trekking routes, offers luxury and comfort along the trails, and enables you to return in a helicopter upon trek completion. You save time, and this type of trek is less demanding. There are several other helicopter tours you can choose from. Contact our representative at Orbit Alpine Adventure, and we will help you select a tour that best suits your preferences.

Best Time for the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

The best time for the Upper Mustang Jeep tour is during the spring months of March to May and the autumn months of September to November. In spring, the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures. The visibility is stretched far and wide giving you amazing views of the Mustang landscapes, and the surrounding peaks. A jeep tour to Upper Mustang in spring presents you with comfortable travel and stunning views.

Spring is also the time when the Tiji festival is held. Tiji festival is a Buddhist celebration where locals portray the roles of demons and Dorje Sonam to commemorate the defeat of evil. If you consult with Orbit Alpine Adventure, we can suggest the ideal date for you to witness and participate in the festival.

Likewise, autumn also has similar temperatures to spring. You will find excellent views of the Himalayan peaks and the arid Mustang landscape. In autumn, you can witness local villagers harvesting crops. Ask to join the local farmers to experience their traditional way of life.

Winter months from December to February, and Monsoon from June to August could be better for a jeep tour to Mustang. In winter, expect cold temperatures and potential snowfall, making the road conditions challenging. Likewise, monsoons are not ideal for road travel in Nepal. There is a high chance of landslides that can disrupt travel plans.

However, global warming has caused the Himalayas to experience a rapid shift in climates. It is best to consult with the experts at Orbit Alpine Adventure to book the best time for an enjoyable jeep tour of Upper Mustang.

Customized Upper Mustang Jeep Tour for 2025-2026

There are limitless expiration options during the Upper Mustang Jeep tour. Based on your preferences, you can include detours, choose more luxurious accommodations, or spend extra days in the Mustang to learn more about the culture and lifestyle of the region.

Get on an adventurous Jeep tour to Upper Mustang with Orbit Alpine Adventure. We work closely with the travelers to understand their preferred itinerary, and requirements to create a tailor-made package of the best fit. Contact our expert guides, and support staff to craft a customized Upper Mustang Jeep tour for 2025-2026.

12-Day Upper Mustang Jeep Tour Cost

The Upper Mustang Jeep tour cost depends on several factors. The size of your group, the duration of your stay, the level of luxury, and personal expenses determine the cost of your tour. To find out the standard prices for the 12-day Upper Mustang Jeep Tour, refer to our fixed-departure jeep tours to Upper Mustang.

A Typical Day during the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

A typical day starts with breakfast at your teahouse/lodge. You will be served tea, coffee, eggs, toast, porridge, and local specialties of the region. However, the breakfast options are vast. Check-in with the kitchen staff to see if they can prepare some of your favorite breakfast food.

After breakfast, you’ll get on the jeep and move to your next destination. Along the way, the guide will stop at various viewpoints, and landmarks allowing you to enjoy the scenery. You can also ask the guide to take breaks at places that you find fascinating.

The jeep ride takes you through the varying landscape as you journey from Kathmandu to Upper Mustang. You will see the rolling hills along the highway from Kathmandu to Pokhara change into arid desert-like terrain as you travel higher into the Himalayas.

After 5 to 6 hours of drive, you will reach the teahouse/lodge at your destination. You have adequate time to take on short hikes, visit local villages, and go on excursions to nearby monasteries and gompas. You can also engage with the locals and learn about their culture and lifestyle.

Before dinner, you can try the local brews made from the fruits from the region. If you are trying alcoholic beverages, make sure you’re taking in the spirits in moderation. After dinner, it’s time to rest and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Upper Mustang Jeep Tour Safety

The Upper Mustang Jeep tour is a unique mix of cultural immersion and adventure. You will experience the remote, yet culturally rich region of Nepal on a 12-day Upper Mustang Jeep tour. However, to ensure utmost safety, you need to keep a few things in consideration.

The roads in Upper Mustang are rough and rugged. These off-road sections require experienced drivers to navigate through safely. Orbit Alpine Adventure prioritizes the safety of travelers. Therefore, we only assign drivers with good experience in the off-road conditions of Mustang.

Also, Mustang is a restricted area. Make sure you are carrying your special permit to access Mustang. Adhering to local regulations and customs is crucial for a respectful and hassle-free journey. It is also important to take the weather into consideration. While spring and autumn are the best times to visit Mustang, you may find unpredictability causing you to make sudden changes in your plans.

Additionally, access to medical facilities and emergency services may be limited in remote areas. It is crucial to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, and trip cancellations. By keeping these factors in consideration, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable jeep tour to Mustang.

Preparing for an Incredible Jeep Tour to Upper Mustang: Gear and Essentials

The Upper Mustang Jeep tour is a relatively easy travel package. You will not require technical gear as you would while trekking. However, we still recommend sufficient clothing to tackle the cold Himalayan weather. The following list gives you an idea of what you need to bring on the Jeep tour:

  • Warm layers: Down jacket, fleece jacket, thermal wear, woolen hat, gloves, and warm socks
  • Waterproof jacket and pants
  • Comfortable trekking pants for long drives
  • T-shirts and long-sleeved shirts for layering
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Lip Balm
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Water purifier
  • Personal medication
  • Power bank
  • Headlamp or flashlight

 

Upper Mustang Jeep Tour - 12 Days Itinerary
Day-to-DayExpand all

Your tour starts as you land in Kathmandu. Upon arrival, our representative will pick you up from the Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel. You have the rest of the day for yourself. After a brief rest, you can explore the streets of Thamel, and see the fascinating lifestyle of the tourist hub. Head to a cafe, and grab yourself a warm brew as you watch the day unfold. The evenings are more extravagant. You can head to a bar for a drink where you can find live bands performing popular cover numbers.

Prepare for a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu. Kathmandu is known for the Newari cultural heritage. Every nook of this ancient city is adorned with an intricately built temple showcasing the finest architecture of Nepal.

Today’s day tour includes a tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square where you pagoda-style temples and statues. You will also find intricate architecture as you walk along the square. Next, you will drive to Swyambhu, a revered Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage site, also popular among travelers as “the monkey temple”. Here, you will find the limestone-washed Buddhist stupa in the center surrounded by smaller stone chi-baha, and Hindu temples.

From Swayambhu, we take a short lunch break and head to the Pashupati Temple. The temple is of great significance to the Hindus all over the world. Though non-Hindus are not allowed inside the main temple, you can still find interesting sightings around the temples. You will see saints, and devotees in the temple premises. Also, watch out for the live cremations. However, be respectful while taking photos or approaching the cremation ceremony.

From Pashupati, we head to Baudha. Here, you will find a large Stupa in the middle of Baudha Square surrounded by several Buddhist monasteries and modern cafes. Baudha comes alive in the evening. You will find the younger crowd flocking to the cafe as the more devoted ones make the rounds of the stupa.

As the night draws closer, we head back to Thamel. You can stroll around the bustling tourist hub before you return to your hotel.

Wake up early and get ready to leave for Pokhara. You can take a jeep or flight to Pokhara, but the most famous way to reach the lake city is by bus. If you want to customize your itinerary, you can contact Orbit Alpine Adventure, we will craft a package that best suits you. The bus journey typically takes 6 to 8 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. You will travel along the highway, passing through various settlements, roadside markets, farmlands, and rivers. As you approach Pokhara, the stunning vistas of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhare, and Annapurna will gradually unveil themselves. You will be accommodated in a 3-star standard hotel on the lakeside in Pokhara. Here, take the opportunity to explore Fewa Lake, go on a quick boat ride, and stroll by the bank of the lakeside in the evening.

The jeep ride to Mustang officially begins as you leave Pokhara. Your first stop is Beni, located at the west of Pokhara. The ride to Beni is comfortable as you cruise along the black-top road following the Kali Gandaki River.

Now, take the off-road track from Beni. As you trail along the Kali Gandaki River, you will reach the Kali Gandaki Valley – the world’s deepest gorge. The valley is perched between Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters) and Annapurna I (8,091 meters). From the Kali Gandaki Valley, you journey toward Tatopani.

Tatopani is a small Himalayan town popular among travelers for its natural hot springs.

Today’s drive takes you through the local villages of the region. Your journey will take you to Kalopani, Ghasa, and finally to Marpha, renowned for its apple orchards. Pack along the popular souvenirs from Marpha. You can ask for a bottle of apple brandy, apple jam, or dehydrated apples that are cut in spirals.

From Marpha, you will drive to Kagbeni, a medieval village located in Lower Mustang. Kagbeni is a local trade hub for traders from Lp Manthang, Manang, and Dolpo. Like Mustang, you will find Tibetan-influenced culture, and heritages in Kagbeni as well. Vibrant chortens, prayer wheels, and prayer flags add color to the Kagbeni panorama where arid landscapes stretch far and wide.

Early in the morning, we head to the Kagbeni Monastery and Buddhist school. Here, you will see the colorful paintings, intricate thangka art, and interesting lifestyle of the monks and students. Before we leave Kagbeni, your guide will check your permits, including the Restricted Area Permit which is essential to enter Mustang.

Your journey to Ghami village begins by crossing the Kali Gandaki River. You will reach Chhusang Village, and get on a steep incline to Chella Village and Samar Village before reaching Syangbochen Village. The windy valley of Syangbochen blends the flora and fauna with the Tibetan culture amid its arid landscape.

From Syangbochen Village, you will drive along Bhina, Ghiling, and eventually arrive at Ghami village. The jeep tour offers flexibility along the way. The guide will ask for the jeep to stop allowing you to relish the amazing views along the way.

You will finally reach Lo-Manthang, the ancient capital of Upper Mustang. As you drive to the high-altitude village from the Charang La you will find the majestic views of Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Bhrikuti peaks. The guide will take a brief break at the Thupten Sherdrup Monastary, and Ghar Gompa. These are two prominent monasteries en route to Lo-Manthang.

Lo-Manthang is an ancient kingdom shrouded by unique culture, tradition, and lifestyle with heavy Tibetan-Buddhism influences. The best time to visit the north-side capital of Mustang would be during the Tiji Festival where a 3-day festival marking the triumph of good over evil is celebrated. The festival gathers the locals from all over Mustang together into a display of magnificent colors, thudding music, powerful chants, and an extravagant celebration.

If you can’t make it during the Tiji Festival, there are still plenty of things to see in Mustang. The Chhosar Caves are among the most talked about architectures of this region. Dating back to over 2000 to 3000 years, these pre-historic caves are known for the vast collection of paintings depicting the life of the Buddha, Buddhist relics, sculptures, and manuscripts. Archeologists have also dug up partially mummified human remains, and skeletons from the site.

You can also witness the unique sky burial ritual around the villages surrounding Chhosar. During this procession, the body of the dead is left on the hilltop for the vultures to prey on. Sky burial is a spiritual practice of giving back to the world among the Tibetan-Buddhism communities of Mustang.

During the Lo-Manthang excursion, you can further explore the breathtaking landscapes, Tibetan-Buddhist heritage, arts, and architecture, and immerse into the ancient lifestyle of the locals untouched by the modern changes.

Spending a day in Lo-Manthang may not be sufficient to learn about the extensive culture, lifestyle, and traditions of the region. Therefore, we recommend spending a few more days thereby customizing your Upper Mustang Jeep tour package. For a tailor-made Upper Mustang Jeep tour itinerary, contact our representative and we can work on creating a tour package that fits your preferences.

As you bid farewell to Mustang, the tour heads toward Jomsom where you will traverse several local villages, drive by the banks of the Kali Gandaki, and pass Buddhist relics and gompas. On the way to Jomsom, you will take a detour to Muktinath. Muktinath is revered by both the Hindu and Buddhist communities.

According to Hindu mythology, this is where Lord Bishnu got salvation from the curse of Brinda. Therefore, people from Nepal and India visit this religious shrine to bathe in its 108 water sprouts which is believed to break the cycle of birth and death, granting moksha to the devotees. You will also find the Jwala Mai Temple inside Muktinath. Dedicated to the goddess of fire, the eternal flame in the Jwala Mai Temple adds mystery to the spiritual allure of the temple.

After a spiritual cleansing at Muktinath, you will get back on the route to Jomsom. On the way, you can relish the stunning scenery, including panoramic views of the Nilgiri Himal, and Dhaulagiri range. You can also explore the local Jomsom market and buy edibles made from apples.

After breakfast, get ready for a short excursion to Dhumba Taal. This is a secluded lake located 15 to 20 minutes away from Jomsom. This small, yet beautiful lake gives you a panoramic view of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche, Jomsom Peak, Kali Gandaki valley, and the Marpha Village.

After sightseeing, get ready to leave for Pokhara. Depending on the traffic, and road conditions, the drive can take 7 to 8 hours. Your jeep ride takes you across rolling hills and beautiful mountains. The road leading to Beni is rugged and mostly comprises off-road drive. However, from Beni onwards, you will cruise on a black-topped road until Pokhara.

You have the rest of the evening in Pokhara. Enjoy the bustling lakeside, or hire a taxi and drive to the nearby Begnas taal for a more serene ambiance. If you would like to extend your stay in Pokhara to explore the stunning lake city, Orbit Alpine Adventure can tailor a customized itinerary to suit your preferences.

Wake up early to get a glimpse of the sunrise from Sarankot. Sarankot is a popular hilltop tourist destination renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, including the Annapurna Range, Macchapuchhre Peak, and Dhaulagiri. It is also the take-off point for paragliding. Before leaving Pokhara, Sarankot allows you to relax in a serene environment before heading back to the bustling city life.

After the excursion to Sarankot, we can visit the Mountain Museum which houses mountaineering-related relics, equipment, and cultural attire of people living in different mountainous regions of Nepal. The museum premises are also popular for a plethora of butterflies.

Next, we head to Davis Fall. The Davis Falls or Patale Chango is a beautiful waterfall that is famous for its unique underground tunnel, where the water disappears into the Seti Gorge before resurfacing. This fall is named after a Swiss woman who tragically drowned in its waters in 1961.

At around 2 PM, we head to the Pokhara Airport to board our flight to Kathmandu.

Today is your final day in Nepal. Enjoy the allure of the beautiful city one last time before you leave for your next destination.

After breakfast, a representative from Orbit Alpine Adventure will transfer you to the Kathmandu airport. Leave your hotel at least three hours before your scheduled flight.

Essential Information

How Difficult is the 12-Day Upper Mustang Jeep Tour: Who is Eligible for the 12-Day Upper Mustang Jeep Tour?

The 12-day Upper Mustang Jeep tour is an easy adventure that mixes black-topped pitch roads with the rugged off-road terrain of the Himalayas. Since the tour does not require strenuous hikes, it is easily achievable by people of all age groups. People without prior high-altitude experience can also take on the jeep tour.

The tour primarily involves jeeps, and for accommodations, you will be provided comfortable lodging at lodges or tea houses along the way to Upper Mustang. The maximum altitude reaches 3950 meters. The gradual gain in altitude in the itinerary allows your body to acclimatize, and get used to the conditions of the Himalayas. However, if you have pre-existing medical conditions, we recommend consulting your doctor before taking the trip. Even though the tour is designed to allow your body to acclimatize, some individuals may still experience mild altitude sickness symptoms like headaches, or fatigue.

  • To ensure a comfortable experience on the 12-day Upper Mustang Jeep Tour, we recommend you comply with the following:
  • Consult with your doctor if you have any underlying health conditions.
  • Drink plenty of water, especially in high-altitude areas.
  • Consume alcoholic beverages only in moderation.
  • Dress in layers to adjust to the changing weather conditions.
  • Pack warm clothes for the evenings.
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