Mustang Overland Tour

Trek begins and ends in Kathmandu, Nepal

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal (KTM). A Mountain Gurus representative will transfer you our hotel in Thamel. Our trek begins in the historic city of Kathmandu, known for its fascinating Nepalese culture and ancient temples. The hotel is located near the popular Thamel district jammed with restaurants and shops selling Nepali handicrafts. In the late afternoon we will have a trek orientation followed by our welcome dinner. (D)

After checking into our hotel we explore the local shops and bazaars of Pokhara, visit the lakeshore of the Phewa Tal and gaze towards the remarkable peaks of the Annapurna Range. (B)

We take the spectacular early morning flight to Jomsom, famous for its apple orchards and the gateway into Upper Mustang. Crossing a suspension bridge, we walk along the Kali Gandaki river to Kagbeni. We will get magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, Nilgiri, and the entire Annapurna massif. Kagbeni with its narrow alleyways and tunnels, irrigation canals, fields, and a large red Gompa, give us a preview of Upper Mustang. Here we will check in at a local outpost and enter the Kingdom of Lo. (B, L, D)

Today we use a combination of ancient trails and pathways which has been used by traders from Tibet to Nepal for centuries. Along the river are caves and Gompa Kang monastery, hme to the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhists. We stop for lunch at the village of Tangbe, where we come across the first black, white, and red chortens, or holy shrines, that typify Upper Mustang. From here we continue to Chhuksang village at the confluence of the Narshing Khola and the Kali Gandaki rivers. (B, L, D)

As the topography changes so does the population density and location of local settlements. Due to lack of rain and fertile soil, cultivation is limited to sheltered plots of land. Agriculture here is limited to small patches of green in the surrounding arid landscape. From here the Kali Gandaki river becomes impassable by foot and we leave the valley floor for higher ground to the village of Chele. From Chele we climb a steep spur and then continue ascending along the side of a steep canyon before descending into Samar. This village has been a stopping point for traders and caravans for years. (B, L, D)

After leaving Samar we enter a broad valley with juniper trees to Shyangmochen, a tiny settlement with a few tea shops. Nearby is Rangbyung, a cave containing one of the holiest places in Mustang. The trail climbs gently from Shyangmochen and we enter another huge valley before descending to Geling, with its extensive fields of barley. Like in all settlements of Mustang, the white and ochre-painted houses in Geling are constructed using mud and stones. The roofs are made of twigs, straw and a mixture of mud and pebbles. (B, L, D)

From Geling, we follow the valley bottom, passing above the settlement of Tama Gun. We then begin ascending to the Nyi La pass at 12,600 ft. We then descend to Ghami, a large white-washed village sheltered by overhanging cliffs. (B, L, D)

This area is the driest part of Mustang, and much of our energy will be spent negotiating the loose, dry soil. However, the magnificent views of the surrounding countryside will put us at ease. Finally, we come to Charang, a large spread-out village at the top of the Charang Chu canyon. At the eastern end of the village are a huge dzong, or fortresses, and a red gompa which houses an excellent collection of statues and thangkas (B, L, D)

We will spend part of the morning exploring the interesting village of Charang and its large monastery, before setting out for Lo Manthang. The trail broadens and eventually we get our first view of the walled city of Lo Manthang. The city has only one entrance, so we circumnavigate the city before reaching the main gate on the north-east corner. (B, L, D)

Today we explore the fascinating city of Lo Manthang. The city contains about 150 houses, as well as residences for its many lamas. There are four major temples within the city and one of these, Champa Lhakang, contains a huge clay statue of Buddha as well as elaborates mandalas painted on the walls. The king’s palace is an imposing building in the center of the city and is occupied by the current King and Queen. Although his duties are largely ceremonial, the King is respected by the people. Throughout the kingdom, the villagers continue to seek his advice regarding many issues. (B, L, D)

After Breakfast, we will drive to Jomsom via a canyon road. (B, L, D)

We take a spectacular early morning flight along the Kali Gandaki gorge to Pokhara and transfer to our hotel. (B)

After saying farewell to our Nepalese staff we depart Pokhara on an early morning flight. We spend the afternoon resting and exploring the Thamel District. (B)

Transport to Tribhuvan International Airport for flights home. (B)

Price

$5,195

Rates are quoted based on double sharing hotel accommodations while in Kathmandu, Pokhara and lodges during the trek. Single room fees apply.

Deposit and Payments

$1000.00 deposit includes reservation fee, due with application.
Balance due 120 days prior to departure

Price Includes

• Round-trip flight to Pokhara
• Flight to Jomsom
• Scheduled land transportation
• Hotels in Kathmandu
• Lodges during the trek
• Guided sightseeing tour
• Scheduled meals during the trek
• Professional English-speaking trekking guide
• Scheduled porter service based on the itinerary
• Baggage transport (limited to 15kg – 33lbs)
• All group equipment for the trek

Program Location:
Begins and ends in Kathmandu, Nepal

Visa/Entry Information:
Passport must have six months or more validity remaining at the time of entry. American citizens may obtain a visa prior to travel or upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. 30 day multiple-entry visa ($40), or 90 day multiple-entry visa ($100)

Health & Immunizations:
Immunizations are not required for entry into Nepal

Flight Travel Information:
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu, Nepal

International Departures:
Itineraries reflect the date and time you will need to arrive in country for a program. Mountain Gurus programs begin and end in the countries destination city. When booking your flight, you will need to account for travel time and crossing the international dateline if needed. It is easiest to give your booking agent the day and time you will need to arrive.

Meals and Food:
All meals are provided as per meal schedule. See itinerary.

Gear:
A complete clothing and equipment list specific to your program will be sent to you in the pre-departure packet upon reservation. For your safety and comfort, it is extremely important that you adhere strictly to the equipment list.