After an early breakfast, board a scenic flight to Pokhara, a charming city nestled beside Phewa Lake and beneath the Annapurna range. Upon arrival, transfer to the Big Pillow Hotel and enjoy a relaxing day. You may choose to explore the lakeside promenade, visit the serene World Peace Pagoda, or take in sweeping views of the Himalayas from Sarangkot Hill.

Today begins with a spectacular flight to Jomsom, offering panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri ranges. Upon arrival, meet your trekking crew and begin your trek along the Kali Gandaki River toward Kagbeni, a medieval village known for its red-walled monastery, narrow alleyways, and strong Tibetan influence. This ancient settlement marks the official entry point to Upper Mustang.

Follow the Kali Gandaki River through Tangbe, a village of whitewashed homes, barley fields, and apple orchards. Continue through Chhusang, crossing a steel bridge beneath dramatic red cliffs. A steep ascent leads you to Chele, where the culture becomes distinctly Tibetan, and the landscapes more arid and rugged.

Today’s route traverses deep canyons and ascends high passes including Taklam La and Darjori La. Along the way, enjoy views of distant peaks and ancient cave dwellings carved into cliff faces. The day ends in Shyangbochen, a quiet village surrounded by stone houses, dry pastures, and grazing yaks.

The trail continues through Ghami, home to Nepal’s longest Mani wall — a stunning 300-meter stretch of intricately carved prayer stones. After crossing the Nyi La Pass, descend to the historic village of Charang. Explore the large red Gompa and visit the former royal palace, both bearing witness to Mustang’s unique cultural and spiritual history.

Cross the Charang Chu River and ascend to the Lo La Pass (3,950m), where you’ll catch your first glimpse of the walled city of Lo Manthang. Before entering the city, make a detour to Ghar Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in Mustang, adorned with exquisite murals and Buddhist relics. Descend into Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Lo, where time seems to stand still.

Lo Manthang comes alive today as the sacred Tiji Festival begins. This centuries-old ritual celebrates the victory of Dorje Jono over evil. Witness the opening ceremony in the royal courtyard, where monks in vibrant costumes perform sacred masked dances. Pilgrims and locals in traditional attire gather, bringing a truly festive atmosphere to the city.

The second day of the festival features dramatic enactments of the mythological battle between Dorje Jono and the demon of destruction. Enjoy the spiritual energy as monks perform ritual dances amidst the sound of horns and drums. In between ceremonies, explore ancient sites such as Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Monastery, and Chhoede Gompa, each offering a deeper understanding of Mustang’s spiritual heritage.

The final day of Tiji culminates in the symbolic defeat and banishment of evil. A straw effigy representing the demon is ceremonially cast out, ensuring harmony and blessings for the coming year. Take the opportunity to interact with local royalty, spiritual leaders, and townspeople in traditional dress — a powerful cultural moment few outsiders experience.

Leaving the vibrant energy of Lo Manthang behind, you’ll head east on a quieter trail toward Yara. This remote route offers expansive views of Mustang’s desert-like landscape, dotted with eroded cliffs and rock formations. Arrive in Yara, a peaceful village known for its distinctive cave dwellings and unspoiled charm.

A rewarding side trip today takes you to Luri Gompa, a rare cave monastery famous for its ancient murals and hidden chörtens. Continue to Tashi Kabum, a small but sacred site, and explore the isolated village of Ghara, where the traditional lifestyle has remained untouched for centuries. Return to Yara for the night.

This long yet scenic day takes you across high-altitude plateaus and passes. After a full day of trekking through barren but majestic terrain, reach Tangye, a serene village marked by rows of whitewashed chörtens and surrounded by deep gorges. The landscape here is stark yet spiritually evocative.

Continue across windswept ridges and rocky paths, with stunning views of the Annapurna and Nilgiri ranges. Depending on the group’s pace, descend to Chhuksang or press on to Tetang, a remote village located higher above the valley, steeped in Bon and Tibetan influences.

Climb steadily over Gyu La Pass (4,077m), one of the highest points of the trek. From here, the descent brings you to Muktinath, a revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Explore its sacred temples, including the eternal flame and 108 stone water spouts believed to grant purification.

Your final day on the trail takes you through the lesser-visited Lupra Valley, home to one of Mustang’s few surviving Bon monasteries. This unique spiritual tradition predates Buddhism and adds another layer to Mustang’s rich cultural fabric. Follow the riverbed trail back to Jomsom and prepare for your departure from the mountains.

Enjoy a morning flight to Pokhara and onward to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for rest, last-minute shopping, or exploring Patan Durbar Square or Boudhanath — two of Kathmandu’s UNESCO-listed cultural gems.

This day is kept flexible to accommodate any flight delays from Jomsom. Use it to shop for souvenirs, visit Pashupatinath Temple or relax in the peaceful ambience of Boudhanath Stupa.

After an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Himalayas and the living culture of Upper Mustang, our team will transfer you to the airport for your international departure. We thank you for joining us and hope to welcome you back for another Himalayan adventure.