Upper Mustang Yartung Festival Trek

After breakfast, take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, enjoying views of the Himalayan ranges. From Pokhara, continue by private vehicle toward Mustang through the spectacular Kali Gandaki Valley. The journey passes through traditional mountain settlements and dramatic landscapes before reaching Marpha, a beautiful Thakali village known for its stone-paved streets, whitewashed houses, and apple orchards.

After breakfast, continue by jeep toward Upper Mustang, passing through Kagbeni and Chele before reaching Samar. From Samar, begin trekking through the increasingly dry and dramatic landscapes of the Mustang region. The trail leads through rugged valleys, colorful cliffs, and traditional Himalayan settlements before reaching Syangboche, offering your first close experience of the remote Upper Mustang landscape.

Today you trek through some of the most spectacular scenery of Upper Mustang. The trail passes through Ghemi, famous for its long Mani wall decorated with Buddhist inscriptions, before continuing toward Dhakmar. The route features dramatic red cliffs, eroded sandstone formations, barren hills, and traditional Tibetan-style villages. Dhakmar is particularly famous for its striking red-rock landscape and provides excellent opportunities for photography.

Leave Dhakmar and continue across the high-altitude landscapes of Upper Mustang toward the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang. The trail passes through barren valleys, mountain passes, and broad Himalayan plateaus before the ancient walls of Lo Manthang gradually come into view. After arriving, check into your accommodation and explore the historic streets and traditional architecture of this former capital of the Kingdom of Lo.

Today is dedicated to exploring the fascinating Chhoser Valley near Lo Manthang. Travel or hike through the dramatic valley to discover ancient cliffside settlements, monasteries, caves, and traditional villages. Explore Dzong Cave and Konchuling Cave, which provide a remarkable insight into the ancient history and spiritual traditions of Upper Mustang. Return to Lo Manthang in the afternoon and prepare for the upcoming Yartung Festival celebrations.

Today you experience the vibrant Yartung Festival in Lo Manthang, one of the most important traditional celebrations in Upper Mustang. Join local communities as they gather for traditional festivities featuring horse racing, cultural performances, music, dancing, traditional clothing, and community celebrations. Spend the day experiencing the unique culture and traditions of the former Kingdom of Lo while enjoying the spectacular Himalayan surroundings.

Continue your Yartung Festival experience in Lo Manthang and enjoy another day of traditional celebrations. Depending on the official festival program, you may witness additional horse races, cultural performances, traditional music, dancing, and local gatherings. You will also have time to explore the ancient city, photograph its historic walls and monasteries, and interact respectfully with local communities during this special cultural event.

Leave Lo Manthang and trek toward the remote Yara Valley in eastern Upper Mustang. The trail takes you away from the more frequently visited areas and into rugged valleys surrounded by barren mountains, colorful sandstone cliffs, and ancient cave formations. The changing landscape and isolated settlements provide an authentic experience of remote Upper Mustang before arriving at the traditional village of Yara.

Today you continue through one of the most remote sections of the Upper Mustang trekking route. The trail follows rugged terrain, dry riverbeds, rocky valleys, and spectacular desert-like landscapes. Depending on local conditions and the itinerary, there may be opportunities to explore the Luri area and surrounding ancient caves before continuing toward Tange. After a rewarding day of trekking, arrive at the traditional village of Tange, known for its stone houses, agricultural fields, and Buddhist chortens.

This is one of the most challenging and adventurous days of the trek. Starting early from Tange, follow a rugged trail through high mountain terrain, climbing toward the Paha La area and crossing exposed ridges before descending through dramatic canyons and colorful rock formations. The route involves significant elevation gain and loss, making it a demanding but rewarding trekking day. Eventually, reach Tetang, a traditional village surrounded by spectacular Himalayan scenery.

After breakfast, continue your journey toward the sacred pilgrimage destination of Muktinath. The trail passes through rugged mountain landscapes before connecting with the traditional routes of Lower Mustang. Upon reaching Muktinath, explore this important pilgrimage site, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, with its temples, monasteries, and sacred surroundings. Enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere and rest after the trek.

Today, leave the high-altitude landscapes of Mustang and drive toward Pokhara through the spectacular Kali Gandaki Valley. The journey passes through Jomsom, Marpha, Tukuche, and other traditional mountain settlements before descending into greener valleys and forested hills. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel and relax. In the evening, you may enjoy a peaceful walk around Phewa Lake or explore the Lakeside area.

After breakfast, transfer to Pokhara Airport for your scenic flight back to Kathmandu. Enjoy the final views of the Himalayan mountains before arriving in the capital. Depending on your international flight schedule, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your Upper Mustang Yartung Festival Trek with unforgettable memories of Himalayan landscapes, ancient culture, remote villages, and the vibrant Yartung Festival.