WE KNOW MUSTANG BEYOND THE MAP.
WE KNOW MUSTANG BEYOND THE MAP.
WE KNOW MUSTANG BEYOND THE MAP.
WE KNOW MUSTANG BEYOND THE MAP.
WE KNOW MUSTANG BEYOND THE MAP.
WE KNOW MUSTANG BEYOND THE MAP.
The Mustang Pilgrimage Overland Tour is a 13-day spiritual and cultural journey through the sacred landscapes and ancient heritage of Nepal’s Mustang region. The journey begins in Kathmandu and continues to Pokhara before following the Kali Gandaki Valley toward Tatopani and the revered pilgrimage site of Muktinath. Here, travelers can experience the sacred 108 water spouts, Muktinath Temple and surrounding Buddhist traditions, making this an especially meaningful journey for those seeking spiritual connection and cultural discovery.
From Muktinath, the route enters the remote landscapes of Upper Mustang, passing sacred sites and ancient settlements including Chungsi Cave, Ghami, Dhakmar, Ghar Gompa and Charang before reaching the historic walled city of Lo Manthang. Explore ancient monasteries, traditional communities and the spiritual heritage of the former Mustang kingdom, with dedicated visits to the Chhoser Valley, Jhong Cave and Konchok Ling Cave.
The pilgrimage continues into the remote eastern valleys, traveling through Dhi Village and Yara to explore the sacred Luri Gompa and Tashi Ghabung. The journey then gradually descends through Marpha and the Kali Gandaki Valley to Pokhara, where a leisure day offers time for reflection and relaxation before returning to Kathmandu.
More than a sightseeing tour, this Mustang Pilgrimage Overland Tour connects sacred Hindu and Buddhist sites with ancient monasteries, cave sanctuaries, traditional villages and the extraordinary landscapes of the Himalayas, offering a deeper journey into the spiritual heart and living culture of Mustang.
Arrive in Kathmandu, where you will be warmly welcomed at the airport and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, enjoy time to rest or explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu. In the evening, meet your guide for a briefing about the upcoming journey into Mustang.
Take a morning flight to Pokhara and continue by road through the scenic Kali Gandaki Valley toward Tatopani. Upon arrival, relax in the village’s famous natural hot springs, enjoying the warm mineral-rich waters surrounded by lush hills and mountain scenery.
Continue north through the dramatic Kali Gandaki Valley to Muktinath, one of Nepal’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. Visit the revered Muktinath Temple, experience the traditional ritual of bathing beneath the 108 sacred water spouts, and explore the nearby Buddhist monastery and eternal flame while taking in the spiritual atmosphere of this high-altitude sanctuary.
Enter the remote landscapes of Upper Mustang, traveling through ancient villages and dramatic desert-like valleys. Visit the sacred Chungsi Cave, associated with Guru Padmasambhava, before continuing through Ghami to Dhakmar, renowned for its spectacular red cliffs and traditional Tibetan-influenced village setting.
Journey toward the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang, visiting the ancient Ghar Gompa and its remarkable Buddhist heritage along the way. Continue through Charang to explore its historic monastery and palace before crossing the high Mustang plateau and arriving at Lo Manthang, the former royal capital.
Venture into the extraordinary Chhoser Valley to discover ancient cliffside settlements and cave complexes. Explore Jhong Cave and Konchok Ling Cave, witnessing remarkable examples of Mustang’s ancient cave culture, Buddhist heritage and traditional architecture carved into the dramatic sandstone cliffs.
Spend a full day discovering the cultural heart of Lo Manthang. Visit the three historic monasteries of Jampa, Thubchen and Chodey, explore the local monk school, wander through the ancient walled city and meet local people to gain a deeper understanding of Mustang’s living Buddhist traditions, culture and everyday life.
Leave Lo Manthang and travel toward the remote eastern valleys of Upper Mustang. Pass through Dhi Village, a traditional settlement surrounded by dramatic cliffs and high-desert landscapes, before continuing to Yara, a remote village known for its ancient caves, distinctive architecture and deeply preserved Tibetan-influenced way of life.
Explore the remote surroundings of Yara and visit the extraordinary Luri Gompa, one of Mustang’s most important cave monasteries, hidden within the dramatic sandstone landscape. Continue toward Tashi Khabum to experience the remote villages, sacred sites and spectacular high-desert scenery of eastern Mustang before returning to Yara.
Begin the journey out of Upper Mustang and descend toward the Kali Gandaki Valley. Travel through changing landscapes and traditional Mustang settlements before reaching Marpha, a beautifully preserved village famous for its whitewashed houses, narrow stone-paved lanes, monastery and surrounding apple orchards.
Drive south through the spectacular Kali Gandaki Valley, passing traditional villages, waterfalls, deep gorges and changing Himalayan landscapes. As you descend toward Pokhara, the arid Mustang terrain gradually gives way to greener valleys. Arrive in Pokhara and enjoy a relaxed evening by Phewa Lake.
Enjoy a free day in Pokhara to relax after the journey through Mustang or explore the city at your own pace. Optional experiences include boating on Phewa Lake, visiting the World Peace Pagoda, exploring the old bazaar or simply enjoying views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre.
Take a morning flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Depending on your international flight schedule, enjoy some free time in Kathmandu before transferring to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey, carrying memories of Mustang’s sacred sites, ancient monasteries, remote villages and extraordinary Himalayan landscapes.
The Mustang Pilgrimage Overland Tour travels through remote Himalayan landscapes and high-altitude areas, including Muktinath at approximately 3,760 m and Lo Manthang at approximately 3,840 m. Although the journey is primarily overland, several spiritual and cultural sites require walking on uneven paths and stone trails.
Upper Mustang is a restricted region of Nepal, and special permits are required to enter the area. These permits and applicable conservation fees must be arranged before entering Upper Mustang.
Road and weather conditions can change quickly in Mustang. Travel times may therefore vary, and the itinerary may occasionally need to be adjusted according to road conditions, weather, local circumstances and flight operations.
Because this is a remote Himalayan journey, travelers should allow sufficient time for altitude adjustment and remain hydrated throughout the trip. Your experienced guide will assist with pacing and provide guidance during the journey.
Advance booking is recommended, especially during the spring and autumn peak seasons, when flights, accommodation, transportation and permits can have limited availability. Early booking also allows the complete pilgrimage journey to be coordinated smoothly.
Visitors are encouraged to dress respectfully when visiting Muktinath, monasteries, cave temples and other sacred sites.
