Details:
duration: 7 days
maximum elevation: 3,840 m / 12,598 ft (Lo Manthang)
transportation: private 4WD jeep
total driving distance: approximately 470–500 km
starting point: Pokhara
ending point: Pokhara
Trip Highlights
- Scenic 4WD Jeep adventure through the ancient Kingdom of Upper Mustang
- Explore the medieval walled city of Lo Manthang, the cultural heart of Mustang.
- Visit the mysterious Chhoser Sky Caves, carved into towering cliffs over 2,000 years ago.
- Discover the sacred Muktinath Temple (3,800 m), revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
- Experience the unique Tibetan-influenced culture, monasteries, and traditional villages.
- Drive through the spectacular Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest river gorge.
- Stop at the beautiful Rupse Waterfall, one of Nepal’s most famous waterfalls.
- Visit Dhumba Lake, a peaceful alpine lake near Jomsom.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Mustang’s dramatic desert landscapes.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Pokhara – Meet Your Guide
- Driving: None
- Elevation: 822 m / 2,697 ft
Upon your arrival in Pokhara, you will be welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, meet your guide for a tour briefing and permit check. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the beautiful Lakeside area, enjoying views of Phewa Lake and the Annapurna mountain range while preparing for your adventure into the remote Kingdom of Upper Mustang.
Day 2: Drive from Pokhara to Kagbeni
- Distance: Approx. 165 km
- Driving Time: 8–9 hours
- Elevation: 2,810 m / 9,219 ft
After an early breakfast, begin your scenic 4WD Jeep journey toward Upper Mustang. The drive follows the Kali Gandaki Valley through Beni, Tatopani, and Ghasa before reaching the famous Rupse Waterfall and the world’s deepest Kali Gandaki Gorge. Continuing through Jomsom, you arrive at the picturesque village of Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. Enjoy the ancient alleys, traditional mud-brick houses, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 3: Drive from Kagbeni to Ghami
- Distance: Approx. 55 km
- Driving Time: 5–6 hours
- Elevation: 3,520 m / 11,549 ft
Today you officially enter the restricted region of Upper Mustang after checking permits at the police checkpoint. The road passes through the colorful villages of Chele, Samar, Syangboche, Ghiling, and Ghami, offering spectacular views of red cliffs, deep canyons, unique rock formations, and barren desert landscapes. Experience the rich Tibetan culture and centuries-old monasteries before spending the night in Ghami.
Day 4: Drive from Ghami to Lo Manthang
- Distance: Approx. 35 km
- Driving Time: 2–3 hours
- Elevation: 3,840 m / 12,598 ft
After breakfast, continue your journey through beautiful Mustang landscapes, crossing traditional villages and the historic settlement of Tsarang, famous for its ancient monastery and palace. The road gradually leads to the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Mustang. Spend the afternoon walking through the narrow alleys and exploring this fascinating Himalayan town.
Day 5: Explore Lo Manthang and Chhoser Cave
- Distance: Approx. 20 km (round trip)
- Driving Time: 3–4 hours
- Maximum Elevation: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
Today is dedicated to exploring the cultural treasures of Upper Mustang. Visit the centuries-old royal palace, ancient monasteries such as Jampa, Thubchen, and Chode Monasteries, and drive to the nearby village of Chhoser to explore the mysterious multi-story Sky Caves carved into towering cliffs. These caves are believed to be over 2,000 years old and remain one of Nepal’s greatest archaeological wonders.
Day 6: Drive from Lo Manthang to Jomsom via Muktinath
- Distance: Approx. 95 km
- Driving Time: 6–7 hours
- Elevation: Jomsom: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
- Highest Point: Muktinath – 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
Leave Lo Manthang after breakfast and drive south toward the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath. Visit the famous Muktinath Temple, one of Nepal’s most important religious sites for both Hindus and Buddhists. After exploring the temple and its sacred water spouts, continue your drive through Kagbeni to Jomsom for an overnight stay.
Day 7: Visit Dhumba Lake and Drive to Pokhara
- Distance: Approx. 120 km
- Driving Time: 7–8 hours
- Elevation: Dhumba Lake – 2,830 m / 9,285 ft
Early in the morning, visit the peaceful Dhumba Lake, a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks and colorful hills. After enjoying the serene atmosphere and taking photographs, begin the drive back to Pokhara via the Kali Gandaki Valley. Upon arrival in Pokhara, your memorable Upper Mustang Jeep Tour comes to an end with unforgettable memories of Nepal’s hidden Himalayan kingdom.
