Upper Mustang Jeep Tour (11 Days) — Cost, Permits & Lo Manthang 2026

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Upper Mustang Jeep Tour (11 Days) — Cost, Permits & Lo Manthang 2026
DESTINATION Nepal
MAX. ELEVATION 4200 m | 13780 ft
WALKING DISTANCE 6-7 hrs Drive
GRADE Luxury
BEST SEASON March to May & August to December
DURATION 11 Days
MEALS INCLUDED Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
ACCOMMODATION Hotel/Guest House/ Lodge

OVERVIEW & HIGHLIGHTS

Journey to the Forbidden Kingdom of Lo Manthang

The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is an 11-Day overland adventure alternative to a long Upper Mustang trek. This jeep ride traverses from the Kali Gandaki corridors to the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang (3,840m | 12,600 ft). You cross dramatic red cliffs, Muktinath Temple, centuries-old cave settlements, and Tibetan-influenced villages. New permit rules require a USD 50 per day fee, which means you don’t have to pay a lump sum of USD 500 for the Restricted Area Permit (RAP). Only pay for the number of days you travel.

This tour is luxury, making it a perfect fit for travelers who want to experience Mustang’s culture and scenery without long trekking days. Daily 4WD drives cover rocky off-road terrain, reaching altitudes up to 4,200m. Hotel/Lodge accommodation, Himalayan desert landscapes, and traditional Buddhist culture make this one of Nepal’s most unique overland journeys. The best seasons are March to May and September to November, when skies are clear and road conditions are stable. 

Day

Itinerary

Approx. Elevation

Approx. Driving Hours

Key Events

1

Arrival in Kathmandu

1,324 m 

Airport Pickup

Arrival, hotel transfer, rest, and trip briefing

2

Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage Exploration

1,324 m 

4 to 6 hrs (city drive)

Visit Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, & Kathmandu Durbar Square

3

Kathmandu → Pokhara

822 m

6 to 8 hrs 

Drive along the scenic Prithvi and Pokhara-Baglung Highway, tour briefing, and preparation

4

Pokhara → Lete

2,480 m

6 to 7 hrs

Drive through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, explore the ancient Kali Gandaki River, optional Titi Lake

5

Lete → Muktinath (via Marpha)

3,800 m

5 to 6 hrs

Explore Marpha village, monastery, apple orchards, and visit Muktinath Temple

6

Muktinath → Ghami Village

3,520 m

4 to 5 hrs

High-altitude drive, Tibetan culture, local interaction, monastery visit

7

Ghami → Tsarang

3,560 m

6–7 hrs

Long driving day, explore Ghar Gompa (Lo Gekhar) & Luri Gompa (Yara)

8

Tsarang → Lo Manthang

3,840 m

2–3 hrs

Explore the ancient walled city, monasteries, royal palace, and hill caves

9

Lo Manthang → Pokhara

820 m

8–9 hrs

Scenic return drive, transition from highlands to city

10

Pokhara → Kathmandu

1,324 m 

6–7 hrs drive

Explore Pokhara landmarks, return to Kathmandu

11

Departure

—

 - 

Final departure, formal end of Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

HIGHLIGHTS

  • UNESCO World Heritage Exploration in Kathmandu
  • Drive on three scenic Highways: Prithvi Highway, Pokhara-Baglung Highway, and Kaligandaki Corridor.
  • Explore the walled city of Lo-Manthang, also called "Forbidden Kingdom" 
  • Explore Marpha village, the ancient Monastery, the apple orchards, and visit the Muktinath Temple
  • Drive along the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge
  • Close interaction with the Community of Upper Mustang: Learn, Share, and Discover
  • Visit ancient man-made Caves at the Red Cliffs of Upper Mustang
  • Dry hills, Snowy Mountains, Tibetan-Buddhist cultures; everything in the old Desert of Nepal
Uttam Pun
Itinerary review by

Uttam Pun, Trekking Guide

Mohan founded North Nepal Trek in 2015 to share Nepal's remote trans-Himalayan landscapes with travelers who want real adventure without long trekking days, and the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour reflects that vision. Uttam Pun reviewed this itinerary after guiding travelers along the Kali Gandaki corridor through Marpha, Muktinath, and Ghami to the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, where red cliffs, cave settlements, and Tibetan-Buddhist culture define the Forbidden Kingdom.

Upper Mustang Jeep Tour Itinerary

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Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu – Welcome to Nepal

After you arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport, a car from our agency will come to pick you up and drop you off at your hotel. You can take a rest and get rid of your jet lag from the flight.

You will be placed in a deluxe hotel in the capital. After breakfast in the morning, we head towards our next destination.

Day 2

Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage Exploration

Today, you explore the cultural heart of Nepal, Kathmandu. It is home to the 7 World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. This day tour into the bustling city will teach you the history and culture of Kathmandu. Perhaps, Nepal's history.

Kathmandu UNESCO Heritage list Photo: Kathmandu UNESCO Heritage list 

You will visit Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

The day highlights Newari culture & heritage, reflected in ancient palaces, temples, traditional courtyards, and daily rituals that define the Kathmandu Valley.

Day 3

Kathmandu to Pokhara – Briefing and Preparation

HIGHEST ALT. 822 m

Drive west to Pokhara, widely recognized as the tourism capital of Nepal and the best place to visit with friends, family, and couples.

The scenic journey follows the Prithvi Highway and Pokhara–Baglung Highway, passing rivers, terraces, and mid-hill settlements.

view of Fewa Lake and Machhapuchre peak from Pokhara peace pagoda

After arrival, your guide provides a full tour briefing and preparation, including Jeep safety, altitude adaptation, weather expectations, and logistics for the Upper Mustang restricted area.

Day 4

Pokhara to Lete – Lower Mustang & Kali Gandaki Exploration

HIGHEST ALT. 2,480 m
Distance
DISTANCE 3 hrs hike

Today, we enter Lower Mustang, driving through the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world.

You will explore the ancient Kali Gandaki River, a lifeline for the civilization living on the banks of this river. Also sacred to Hindus and Buddhists and historically vital to trans-Himalayan trade between Tibet and Nepal.

anceint settlement of mustang region on the Kali Gandaki corridorPhoto: Ancient settlement of the Mustang region on the Kali Gandaki corridor

An optional trek leads to Titi Lake, offering panoramic views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna South. You have to cross the suspension bridge and walk up to the Titi Lake because the road is under construction. The total duration of the hike is around 3 hours. 

Cultural exposure includes the Thakali culture and a scenic stop at Rupse Waterfall, a popular attraction on the road.

Day 5

Lete to Muktinath – Kali Gandaki Corridor & Spiritual Pilgrimage

HIGHEST ALT. 3,800 m

Drive north along the historic Kali Gandaki Corridor, also known as the Korala–Kali Gandaki Highway, an ancient trade route connecting to Tibet and China.

Muktinath temple worshipped by both Hindu and BuddhistPhoto: Muktinath temple, revered by Hindus and Buddhist.

Stop at Marpha, a beautiful village rich in its Buddhist heritage and culture. It is famous for its Buddhist monastery and apple orchard. 

We highly recommend that you try their Apple products like Apple pie, Apple sweets, and Apple brandy.

Continue through Kagbeni before reaching Muktinath Temple.

Here you can experience bathing at the 108 water sprouts. These are spiritual rituals for Hindu and Buddhist. Hindus worship the main idol as Lord Vishnu, while Buddhist priest Jhuma worships the deity as Luwang Garbo, symbolizing religious harmony.

Day 6

Muktinath to Ghami Village – Entry into Upper Mustang

HIGHEST ALT. 3,850 m

You will officially enter the restricted area of the Upper Mustang Trek. Continue driving along the Kali Gandaki Corridor toward Ghami, crossing the high Syangboche La Pass (3850 m) of the desert of the Annapurna region.

triangular clustered sandy mountain like peak structure at Ghami

Arrive in Ghami, a remote, ancient village in Nepal’s Upper Mustang region, known for its clustered settlement of traditional mud houses inspired by Tibetan-Buddhist architecture.

The village sits on the bank of the Kali Gandaki River, surrounded by dry hills. Explore Ghami Monastery, Ghami Dzong, and engage in local interaction or monastery participation to better understand Mustang culture.

Day 7

Ghami to Tsarang – Monasteries & Royal Heritage

HIGHEST ALT. 3,860 m

Ghami is the second-largest village in Upper Mustang, and today is a long drive but a culturally rich day. The drive is along the Syanboche La Pass at 3,860m and descends to Tsarang (Charang).

Ghar Gompa (Lo Gekar monastery) in Upper Mustang Photo: Ghar Gompa (Lo Gekar monastery) in Upper Mustang 

Visit Ghar Gompa, also called Lo Gekhar Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in the Upper region of Mustang, and explore Luri Gompa at Ghara/Yara. These ancient monasteries have preserved old paintings, sculptures, culture, and history for centuries in Upper Mustang. 

Buddha painting at Ghar Gompa (Lo Gekar monastery) in Upper Mustang Photo: Buddha painting at Ghar Gompa (Lo Gekar monastery) in Upper Mustang

Continue through arid and colorful scenery to Tsarang (Charang). Visit Thubten Shedrup Dhagyeling Monastery, Charang Lekshey Choeling Nunnery, and the Old Royal Palace, reflecting Mustang’s former kingdom era. 

Day 8

Tsarang to Lo Manthang – Entering The Forbidden Kingdom

HIGHEST ALT. 3,840 m
Distance
DISTANCE ~158 Km

Arrive in Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of the former Kingdom of Lo. The clustered settlement, Tibetan-Buddhist culture, and old architecture remain remarkably preserved.

Collage of Lo Manthang and Jhong Caves at Upper Mustang Jeep TourPhoto: Lo Manthang and Jhong Caves at Upper Mustang Jeep tour

Explore the ancient, mysterious Jhong Caves, carved into the red cliffs, man-made caves used for meditation, burial, and shelter. However, these man-made marvels of ancient people on these Red Hills are on the brink of collapse due to climate change.

Once restricted to foreigners until 1992, Lo Manthang is known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom and is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list. Upon approval, it is expected to play a vital role in preserving this ancient kingdom for future generations.

Buddhist shrines at Lo Manthang areaPhoto: Buddhist shrines at the Lo Manthang area

Visit Jampa Lhakhang (God House), Thubchen Monastery, and Chode Monastery. Learn about the Tiji Festival, an annual three-day ritual held in mid-May, celebrating the triumph of good over evil. This three-day celebration is marked by masked dance, Buddhist rituals, and Folklore.

Day 9

Lo Manthang to Pokhara – Back to City Lights

HIGHEST ALT. 822 m

A long and big day as we drive all the way back to Pokhara, retracing the trans-Himalayan corridor. Watch the stark Mustang landscape gradually transform into green valleys, bustling city life, and truly back to city lights. Sipping local Coffee by the lakeside is a different vibe altogether.

Day 10

Pokhara to Kathmandu – Pokhara Exploration and Kathmandu Departure

FLIGHT 25 min.
HIGHEST ALT. 1,324 m

Before departure, explore Pokhara. You will explore the natural and spiritual landmarks of the valley, such as visiting Gupteshwor Cave, the World Peace Pagoda, and Pumdikot. These are common destinations for sightseeing near Pokhara city.

Pokhara sightseeing list Photo: Pokhara sightseeing destinations. 

Most importantly, majestic views of Machhapuchre (Fishtail peak), the Annapurna ranges, and other snowy peaks. In the evening, take a flight to Kathmandu, concluding the journey in Nepal’s capital.

Day 11

Departure – Formal End of Jeep Tour

Today marks the formal end of the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. Our team assists with airport transfer and departure arrangements, officially closing your journey through one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally preserved regions.

Upper Mustang Tour Map and Elevation Graph

Upper Mustang Tour Map and Elevation Graph

WHAT'S INCLUDED & EXCLUDED

  • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (Special Permit, ACAP permit, Local Area Permit, and TIMS)
  • All government and local taxes
  • An experienced English-speaking Tour Guide (Govt. registered)
  • Tour Guide and driver’s food and accommodation
  • Jeep and all the expenses related to the jeep.
  • We provide 3 meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) and Tea twice daily. Please note that each meal is served as a single serving.
  • Safe Drinking Water
  • One-hour Trekker's Massage upon completion of the trek
  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • Company T-Shirt and Broacher
  • Trekking equipment, such as a down-filled sleeping bag and duffel bag
  • Farewell dinner in a typical Nepali Restaurant
  • Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu
  • Expenses arising out of various/unforeseen situations like natural disasters, political disturbance, strikes, and changes in government regulations. Personal climbing guide, if requested
  • Deserts (cakes, bakes, and pies)
  • Any packed food and snacks
  • Additional Hot Drinks/Bottled drinks
  • Boiled/mineral water
  • Electronic device re-charge/Hot shower/Wi-Fi
  • Personal nature & Laundry expenses
  • Travel insurance and evacuation insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Tips and Gratitude to the trekking crew
  • Expenses incurred during extended days other than in the mentioned itinerary.
  • Anything that is not mentioned in the 'Cost Included' section

Complete Guide to the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

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Cultural & Scenic Highlights of the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

Though the roads are bumpy and dusty, the thrill and joy experienced during this trip are the same as trekking. We traverse through barren hills, scattered settlements, religiously significant temples and gumbas and culturally enriched places.

We get to see a back-view of the Annapurna Range. Moreover, we can pay homage and offer our prayers in Muktinath Temple. The temple has 108 taps and 3 ponds where pilgrims take a bath.

It is believed that, after taking bath in those taps and ponds, one can be relieved from the diseases. Also, the centre of attraction of this whole safari is Lo-Manthang, an ancient kingdom still untouched by science and technology. The people of this place are heavily influenced by Tibetan culture. So, we get a peek at ancient culture and traditions.

This trip is also an excellent opportunity for Buddhists as we are encompassed with several monasteries and Gompas along the way. Furthermore, one can halt the Jeep and opt to take pictures in amazing places.

Best Time to Visit Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

The best time for an Upper Mustang Jeep tour is Spring and Autumn for most people. Since this region gets the least rainfall as it lies in the rain-shadow area, a monsoon tour is also feasible. A winter jeep tour can be difficult as the road may get blocked due to snow. The people of this place descend to lower altitudes to cope with the extreme cold, so the homes are pretty much empty during the cold. Apart from that, Spring and Autumn ought to be the best seasons for visiting Upper Mustang. The weather is clear, and the views of the Himalayas are not hampered during this time of the year.

Season

Months

Best For

Key Features

Spring

Mar - May

Culture & Comfort

Tiji Festival, Mild Weather

Summer

Jun - Aug

Exclusive Access

Rain Shadow (Dry when others are wet)

Autumn

Sep - Nov

Mountain Views

Best Visibility, Deep Blue Skies

Winter

Dec - Feb

Snow Experience

Cold, "Snow Wonderland" (Best for prepared adventurers)

Permits Required for the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

Upper Mustang was a restricted area until 1992, and no foreign visitors or tourists were allowed to enter. Now, this place is accessible easily with a special permit, which costs USD 50 per day for each person. The old Restricted Area Permit fee of USD 500 does not apply anymore.

Permit / Requirement

Who Needs It

Cost / Fee

Notes / Validity

Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP) 

All foreign visitors entering Upper Mustang.

USD 50 per person per day

New rule (no fixed 10-day minimum) - you pay the number of days you stay. Must be obtained through a registered trekking agency.

You can trek solo with a guide only as of March 22, 2026. 

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)

All visitors entering the Annapurna Conservation Area

~NPR 3,000 (foreigners)

Essential for all (Jeep, Bus, Trek)

Licensed guide and Registered Travel Agency

Applied for all visitors

—

Registered Travel agencies act as the legal tour operators in the restricted area and Trekking route.

Passport & documentation

All applicants

—

Original passport copy and photos required for processing.

Processing Time

Applied for All

— 

RAP takes around 1 Business day

ACAP takes a minute

A healthy reminder: the officials won’t hand over the permit for an individual. So, the number of foreign visitors should exceed one. Furthermore, we need to have an ACAP permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Project), which costs around $25 per person. But don't worry, all the permit paperwork will be handled by the trekking agency.

Itinerary Flexibility & Customization

For solo drives, we can modify the tour itinerary, but the jeep tour is mostly carried out in groups; the itinerary cannot be transformed according to the personal desire of a single person. However, if all the members of the group come to an understanding, then it can be changed, or additional days can be added to the itinerary.

But the expenses of extra days should be paid by each individual themselves. Furthermore, all the lunches and dinners are included in a package and will be managed by the tour guide.

Why Trek With Us - Upper Mustang Jeep Tour (11 Days) — Cost, Permits & Lo Manthang 2026

When you journey across the rugged high-desert tracks, ancient cave systems, and windswept canyons of the forbidden kingdom of Lo Manthang by 4x4, your comfort, safety, and seamless transit depend on expert vehicle logistics. Here is why travelers choose North Nepal Travel & Trek:

100% Locally Owned & Pokhara-Based

We are proudly based right here in Pokhara, the primary departure hub for all Mustang overland journeys. Booking directly with us keeps your investment local, supports rural Himalayan communities, and guarantees immediate on-the-ground support.

Officially Licensed & TAAN-Registered Specialists

Upper Mustang is a restricted trans-Himalayan conservation area requiring specialized permits and strict regulatory compliance. As a fully government-registered agency and active member of the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN), we handle all restricted area paperwork smoothly and legally.

Decades of Trans-Himalayan Road Expertise

Navigating the rough dirt roads, high passes, and remote terrain north of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges requires seasoned drivers and robust vehicles. We bring over a decade of deep field experience managing high-altitude Jeep and overland expeditions in Mustang.

Expert Cultural Leadership & Professional Drivers

Your journey is led by certified, English-speaking local guides and skilled, mountain-tested drivers who know every corner of the Kali Gandaki valley, local traditions, and the best viewpoints. They ensure a smooth, safe, and deeply insightful ride.

Top-Rated Client Satisfaction

Backed by a 4.9/5 rating across global review platforms, our travelers consistently praise our comfortable vehicle selection, reliable pacing through high-altitude terrain, and warm, personalized hospitality.

Live Trail Update of Upper Mustang Jeep Tour (11 Days) — Cost, Permits & Lo Manthang 2026 Live

Last updated: 1 Week Ago

Updated: Uttam Pun

Trail Condition Dry, Dusty Mountain Roads
Weather Clear Skies, Cold Nights
Wifi/Network Patchy Signal Past Jomsom
Hotels & Lodges Comfortable Hotel Stays

Trekker Alerts

Autumn Trail Alert: Expect dry, dusty mountain roads and clear skies with cold nights on the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour this season. Signal gets patchy past Jomsom, though comfortable hotel stays await each night.

Reviews From The Trail

Hear it from those who've walked with us.


Safety Policy

Professional & Certified Guides

Every journey is accompanied by a licensed, English-speaking local guide trained in high-altitude overland logistics, cultural interpretation, and first-aid response. Guides carry comprehensive medical kits equipped with essential pharmaceuticals and pulse oximeters to monitor oxygen levels daily during the drive toward Lo Manthang (3,840 m) and maximum elevations up to 4,200 m.

High-Altitude & Overland Health Management

While our 4WD jeep tour avoids strenuous trekking exertion, the route reaches significant elevations across rugged terrain. Itineraries are structured with gradual altitude gains for comfortable acclimatization. Guides conduct daily health checks for symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). If severe symptoms appear, standard protocol mandates immediate descent to lower elevations.

Emergency Rescue Coordination & Restricted Area Clearance

Because Upper Mustang is a government-restricted border region, emergency helicopter evacuation and rescue operations require official authorization and coordination with local security authorities. In cases of severe injury or acute altitude illness, our Kathmandu and Pokhara offices instantly coordinate with local rescue services and relevant authorities to secure prompt clearance and execute emergency evacuations.

Mandatory Travel Insurance

All travelers must hold comprehensive travel insurance covering emergency medical treatment, high-altitude travel (up to 4,500 m), and emergency helicopter rescue/evacuation. Insurance details and permit documentation must be submitted prior to departure to ensure seamless emergency coordination if required.


Upper Mustang Jeep Tour Departure Date for 2026/2027

Secure the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour for 2026/2027 before the seat gets fully booked.


Terms, Conditions & Feasibility

  1. All bookings are made with North Nepal Travel & Trek Pvt. Ltd Registered Company Number 162883/073/074 (hereafter referred to as The Company) whose office is in Lakeside, Pokhara-6, Nepal.
  2. The term "trip" used in this website and booking conditions refers to all itineraries described on this website including those which might otherwise be know as walking, tours, trekking trips, sightseeing, climbing, mountaineering, expeditions, or holidays.
  3. We accept your last-minute booking as well, but full payment of the total tour cost should be made in advance if necessary or can be paid fully on arrival day. See More 

PRIVATE TRIP

11 Days

Price Start from USD 2500

USD 1500 pp pp

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