Upper Mustang Overland Tour

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The 9-day Upper Mustang Overland Tour offers a rare opportunity to explore the "Last Forbidden Kingdom" of Nepal. Nature Lovers Treks and Tours provides a leisurely jeep tour without the physical demands of a strenuous trek. Traveling by 4WD Jeep as you traverse the mystical land of red cliffs, ancient caves, and Tibetan culture. Suitable for travelers looking to step back in time into the walled city of Lo Manthang and the Chinese border at Kora La Pass, the Upper Mustang Overland tour allows you to explore the ancient Himalayan kingdom within a comfortable timeframe.

Duration
9 Days
Trip Grade
Easy
Country
Nepal
Max Altitude
4,660 Meters
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Group Size
Small to Big groups (Private Jeep)
Best Time
March - December

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is a travel back in time to witness mesmerizing cultural experiences and the unique geography of the rainshadow region of the Himalayas. On your 9-day adventure to this former independent kingdom, you will visit some of Nepal’s most preserved areas. Opened for foreigners only in 1992, you can witness ancient Tibetan traditions and the untouched landscape.

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu. You will traverse the Tatopani hot springs before entering the arid Trans-Himalayan region of Mustang. Unlike the sub-tropical hills, this region features dramatic red canyons, wind-sculpted landscapes, eroded cliffs, and historic monasteries. This 9-day Mustang Jeep Tour also allows you to explore ancient cities, including the walled capital of Lo Manthang, drive to the Kora La Pass on the Nepal-China border, and visit the mysterious sky caves of Choser.

Suitable for travelers of all experience levels and ages, the 9-day Upper Mustang Overland Tour combines the thrill of off-road driving with deep cultural immersion of the Himalayan communities. Every stop offers fascinating views and experiences. From the revered temple of Muktinath to the Marpha apple orchards, this trip offers a wide variety for travelers of different preferences.

Join Nature Lovers Treks and Tour on this fascinating 9-day Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. Experience the magic of the Forbidden Kingdom.

Why Go on the Upper Mustang Overland Tour?

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is an exciting adventure that gives you access to the ancient, remote trans-Himalayas without the strenuous treks. It significantly reduces the trekking time and effort while allowing you to experience the grandeur of this former independent kingdom.

Here are the top reasons to choose this overland journey to Mustang:

Access to the “Forbidden Kingdom”: The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour takes you on an overland journey to some of the most preserved areas in the Himalayas. On this 9-day tour, you will also visit the “Forbidden Kingdom,” which was inaccessible to foreigners until 1992. You will reach the heart of Upper Mustang, to the ancient capital of Lo Manthang, making your dream destination accessible within a limited time.

Unique Arid Landscapes: Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Due to its unique geographical location, the region is known for its stunning semi-desert landscape with colorful rock formations, deep gorges, and crystal-clear skies. The landscape of the region offers a sharp contrast with the snow-capped peaks that you wouldn’t find anywhere else in Nepal.

Cultural Immersion: While exploring Upper Mustang, you will witness unique Tibetan-Buddhist-inspired cultural practices. You can visit ancient monasteries, witness prayer wheels and chortens at every turn. Here, the local Loba community has preserved its distinct traditions, festivals, and way of life for centuries. Travelers can immerse themselves in the profound culture while traveling from one destination to another.

Iconic Destinations: The 9-day Upper Mustang Overland Tour takes you across several iconic destinations. Alongside an immersive experience in Lo Manthang and Upper Mustang, you will also visit the revered temple of Muktinath, soak in the hot water springs in Tatopani, and see the apple orchards in Marpha.

A Typical Day During the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is a relaxing journey that eliminates the necessity of the challenging Himalayan trek. Each day offers unique experiences and cultural sightseeing as you take on a scenic drive from one trans-Himalayan destination to another.

Your day typically begins at 7:00 AM. After preparing for the day, you will head to your guesthouse dining area for a hearty breakfast, enjoying the crystal clear views and crisp mountain breeze. You should board your 4WD jeep by 8:00 for an off-road adventure along the unpaved winding roads. To add thrill to your journey, your drive takes you across riverbeds, suspension bridges, and winds through dramatic canyons. Your guide will make frequent stops along the way, allowing you to take in the majestic sights of the surrounding landscapes and stretch your legs.

Lunch is served at around noon in a local teahouse along the route to your overnight destination. You are typically served authentic Nepali or Tibetan cuisines. After lunch, you will begin your journey to your destination, passing through several villages.

Upon reaching your teahouse, you can check in and explore the surrounding village, visit ancient monasteries, and interact with the locals. Evenings are spent in the cozy dining hall of your guesthouse, enjoying your warm meal and hearty conversations with your fellow travelers.

Cost of Upper Mustang Overland Tour: Permits, Accommodation, Guides, and Transport

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is a premium adventure to one of the most preserved Himalayan destinations. This tour takes you into a restricted area, requiring specialized permits. To ensure a hassle-free journey, Nature Lovers Treks and Tours provides a comprehensive package that handles and manages all logistics.

With us, you will get an all-inclusive package that covers the high costs of the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), private 4WD Jeep transportation, experienced drivers, and knowledgeable guides. We also include accommodation in clean and hygienic guesthouses and full board meals during the tour.

Get a free quote for your 9-day Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. Call us now.

Upper Mustang Overland Tour Highlights

  • Driving to Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of the Kingdom of Lo
  • Exploring the mysterious multi-storied Chhoser Sky Caves
  • Visiting the Kora La Pass (4,660m) at the Nepal-China border
  • Bathing in the natural hot springs at Tatopani
  • Visiting the sacred Muktinath Temple, a pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists
  • Witnessing the deep Kali Gandaki Gorge and the arid Trans-Himalayan landscape
  • experiencing the unique Tiji Festival (if travel dates align)
  • Scenic drive through the apple orchards of Marpha and Jomsom

Nepal Upper Mustang Overland Tour Customization

Nature Lovers Treks and Tours meticulously crafted the all-inclusive Upper Mustang Overland Tour to ensure a hassle-free adventure. However, we understand the preferences of travelers may differ. Considering the individual interests, we offer a fully customizable Upper Mustang Jeep Tour package.

With our customized trek, you can extend your stay in Lo Mangthang, explore more remote villages, add a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, and upgrade your accommodation in Pokhara and Kathmandu.

Discuss your requirements with our travel experts, and together we will create a fully tailored Upper Mustang Overland Tour that best suits your interests. Call us now!

Trip Gallery

Charang
Cliffs
Syangbochen
Lo Manthang
Upper Mustang Overland Tour
Price From
US$999US$1999
  • No. of peoplePrice per person
  • 1 paxUS$1999
  • 2 - 4 paxUS$1499
  • 5 - 10 paxUS$999
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Short Itinerary & Altitude

Upper Mustang Overland Tour Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the Hotel

Welcome to Nepal

Your 9-day Upper Mustang Overdrive Tour begins upon arriving in Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport. At the airport, you will receive a warm welcome from our representatives, who will then help you transfer to your hotel in a private vehicle. Check in and spend some time resting and unwinding. In the evening, you will meet our representatives for the tour briefing.

Max. Altitude: 1,400m (4,593ft)Accommodation: Hotel
Day 2

Drive from Kathmandu to Tatopani (1,190m) via Pokhara

Tatopani

Today, you bid farewell to the bustling capital of Kathmandu and head to Tatopani via Pokhara. The drive takes you through a scenic highway alongside the Trishuli River before continuing toward the mountains. You will pass Beni and follow the road along the Kali Gandaki River. After a long 10 to 12-hour drive, you will reach Tatopani. Take this opportunity to soak in the therapeutic hot spring waters to soothe your muscles.

Max. Altitude: 1,190m (3,904ft)Duration: 10-12 hrs driveMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse/Lodge
Day 3

Drive from Tatopani to Charang (3,560m)

Charang Viewpoint

From Tatopani, you head toward the higher altitude regions. You will experience a dramatic change in the landscape as you venture toward Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. Here, you will submit your passes to enter the restricted area. From the Kagbeni checkpoint, you will ascend toward the high desert and pass the villages of Chele and Syangboche. You can witness massive red cliffs and deep canyons along your journey before reaching your overnight destination of Charang.

Max. Altitude: 3,560m (11,679ft)Duration: 7-8 hrs driveMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse/Lodge
Day 4

Drive from Charang to Lo Manthang (3,840m) | visit Chhoser and Kora La (4,660m)

Chhoser

A short drive from Charang brings you to the walled city of Lo Manthang. This ancient capital of Upper Mustang is the pinnacle of your 9-day journey. You will check into your hotel and get on your jeep to travel further toward the Kora La Pass (4,660 meters). This is the border between Nepal and Tibet (China). On your way back to Lo Manthang, you will also visit the ancient Chhoser Cave, a fascinating network of interconnected caves carved into the cliffside.

After your short excursion, you will return to Lo Mangthang in the afternoon and explore the royal palace and ancient monasteries.

Max. Altitude: 4,660m (15,288ft)Duration: 5-6 hrs driveMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse/Lodge
Day 5

Drive from Lo Manthang to Muktinath (3,800m)

Muktinath

Today, you bid farewell to your ultimate destination of Lo Manthang and begin your journey south. During your drive, you can enjoy the majestic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri from a new perspective as you head toward the revered Muktinath temple. This temple is considered sacred by pilgrims of both the Hindu and Buddhist religions. Explore the temple, see the eternal flame, and take a holy bath in the 108 stone water spouts.

Max. Altitude: 3,800m (12,467ft)Duration: 6-7 hrs driveMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse/Lodge
Day 6

Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara (822m)

Above Kagbeni

As you descend to a lower altitude, you will find yourself back in modern civilization. Your first stop today is at the windy valley of Jomsom. Here, you will take a detour to the charming village of Marpha and visit its apple orchards. You can also sample the local brandy before continuing along the Kali Gandaki River. As you approach your destination, you will notice the greenery gradually taking over the landscape. After an 8 to 9-hour drive, you will reach the Pokhara Lakeside.

Max. Altitude: 822m (2,696ft)Duration: 8-9 hrs driveMeals: Breakfast, LunchAccommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Day 7

Explore and rest day in Pokhara

Pokhara

After a week-long excursion on the rugged off-roads of the Himalayas, you have a day of relaxation in the serene Lake City of Pokhara. You can begin a day with a leisurely breakfast. After breakfast, you have the rest of the day to yourself. Enjoy boating on Phewa Lake, visit iconic landmarks like Davis Falls, Pumdikot View Tower and World Peace Pagoda, or drive farther up toward the more secluded Begnas Lake.

Max. Altitude: 822m (2,696ft)Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Day 8

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Pashupatinath Temple

Your final day in Pokhara begins with a leisurely breakfast in your hotel. After breakfast, you will board your vehicle to return to Kathmandu. The journey retraces its path along the Prithivi Highway. Enjoy the quaint rural highway lifestyle and witness terraced fields as you travel alongside the Trishuli and Marshyangdi Rivers.

After approximately 8 hours, you will reach your hotel in Kathmandu. In the evening, you can head to the vibrant bars in Thamel or engage in last-minute souvenir shopping.

Max. Altitude: 1,400m (4,593ft)Duration: 7-8 hrs driveMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Day 9

Final departure from Nepal

You have come to the end of your 9-day Upper Mustang Overland Tour. You will begin your day with a hearty breakfast in your hotel. After breakfast, prepare to leave for the airport. Depending on your scheduled flight time, our representatives will pick you up from your hotel approximately 3 hours before your boarding time, ensuring a smooth airport transfer.

Max. Altitude: 1,400m (4,593ft)Meals: Breakfast
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Cost Details

Includes

  • Private 4WD Jeep/bus for the entire tour as per group size
  • 2 nights in Pokhara and 2 nights in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Twin/triple sharing accommodation in guesthouses during the 4WD overland tour
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included during the Upper Mustang tour
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card
  • Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit fee
  • All government and local taxes
  • English-speaking tour guide and professional jeep driver (including their expenses plus insurance)

Excludes

  • International airfare, Nepal entry visa fee
  • Meals and sightseeing in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Monument entrance fees
  • Personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, laundry, and souvenirs
  • Travel insurance (compulsory and must cover high-altitude travel and emergency evacuation)
  • Tips for the field staff
  • Meals and accommodation behind schedule

Dates & Availability

Select Departure Dates
Mar 2026
Apr 2026
May 2026
Jun 2026
Jul 2026
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Oct 2026
Nov 2026
02 Mar, 2026
Starts on Monday
10 Mar, 2026
Ends on Tuesday
Guaranteed
US$999
US$1999
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09 Mar, 2026
Starts on Monday
17 Mar, 2026
Ends on Tuesday
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US$1999
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16 Mar, 2026
Starts on Monday
24 Mar, 2026
Ends on Tuesday
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US$999
US$1999
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23 Mar, 2026
Starts on Monday
31 Mar, 2026
Ends on Tuesday
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US$999
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30 Mar, 2026
Starts on Monday
07 Apr, 2026
Ends on Tuesday
Guaranteed
US$999
US$1999
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Add-Ons & Options

Want to see and explore the best of Pokhara? Join our fully customized, professionally guided full-day tour and make the most of your time and money.

Still Confused? Consult an Expert

Equipment Lists

What to Pack for the 9-day Upper Mustang Overland Tour?

Although this is a driving tour, you are traveling to a high-altitude desert. Proper packing ensures comfort against the wind, dust, and cold. Below is a list of gear you will need:

Head
+−
  • Sun hat & Wool hat (temperatures drop at night)
  • Sunglasses (UV Protection is vital in the high desert)
  • Sunblock (SPF 50+) & Lip Balm
  • Buff or Face Mask (Essential for dust protection on jeep tracks)
Upper Body
+−
  • Base Layer: (Thermal tops and bottoms for evenings)
  • Mid-Layer: (Fleece or Sweater)
  • Outer Layer: (Windproof Jacket is highly recommended due to strong winds)
  • Down Jacket: (Essential for mornings and evenings in Lo Manthang)
  • Comfortable Trousers: (Jeans or hiking pants for the drive)
Lower Body
+−
  • Warm Socks (2-3 pairs)
  • Comfortable Walking Shoes or Sneakers (Hiking boots are not strictly necessary unless you plan extensive walking)
  • Sandals/Slippers for the guesthouse
Climbing Equipments
+−
  • Day Pack (Small bag for camera, water, and jacket inside the jeep)
  • Personal Water Bottle
  • Moisturizer and Lotion (The air is very dry)
  • Personal First Aid Kit (Include motion sickness pills for bumpy roads)
  • Cash (Nepalese Rupees for personal expenses, as ATMs are scarce)
  • Power Bank (Electricity can be intermittent in remote areas)

Essential Information

Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is a leisurely journey that takes you into the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountains. Considering the geographical location, this region is one of the few places where an excursion is possible even in the monsoon season.

Upper Mustang in Spring is an excellent time for this adventurous jeep tour. You will find mild weather throughout the day, making the drive enjoyable. As you drive along the rugged off-roads, you can find a stark contrast between snowy peaks and arid landscapes. The famous Tiji Festival also falls in this spring (May). Planning your trip gives you this incredible cultural bonus in Lo Mangthang.

Autumn (September to November) is the most popular season for the Upper Mustang 4WD tour. You can enjoy the crystal-clear skies and uninterrupted views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The temperatures are pleasant during the day, but can get chilly at night.

On the other hand, winter (December to February) is cold with snow blocking high passes. It is best to skip the winter excursion in Upper Mustang.

Upper Mustang Overland Tour Difficulty

The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is an easy-to-moderate journey through one of the most well-preserved Himalayan destinations. This tour avoids the strenuous trek that requires immense physical fitness and endurance, as the majority of the journey is done in a 4WD jeep.

Nature Lovers Treks and Tours ensure the utmost comfort during your travel. However, due to the geographical location and off-road sections, long jeep rides can be tiring. Additionally, you will be sleeping at altitudes up to 3,840 meters and visiting higher elevations over 4,600 meters. Though rare, there are still slight chances of altitude sickness, even when driving. We recommend staying hydrated and following the guidance of your expert guides.

Who can go on the Upper Mustang Overland Tour?

The 9-day Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is recommended for:

  • Travelers who want to see the Himalayas but cannot or do not want to trek
  • Photography enthusiasts looking for unique landscapes and culture
  • Families with children or seniors who require comfortable transport
  • Culture lovers interested in Tibetan Buddhism and history
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