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