Overview of Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is an adventurous and comfortable way to explore one of Nepal's most mystical regions. Upper Mustang is often called the Last Forbidden Kingdom because it remained restricted to foreigners until 1992. Even today, it feels like a land frozen in time, with its ancient culture, breathtaking landscapes, and remote villages.
This 4WD Jeep tour is perfect for those who want to experience Upper Mustang without long trekking. The journey follows the Kali Gandaki River, passing through Jomsom, Kagbeni, Marpha, Chhuksang, and Lo Manthang. Each of these places has a unique charm and historical importance.
The freedom to explore at your pace is one of the best parts about going on a private jeep tour. You may want to stop for a while, enjoy the views, take some pictures, or visit hidden cultural sites, which is very easy if you’re travelling in a private jeep. During your trip, you will be treated to panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and a host of other peaks of the Himalayas. The road is mostly off-road and rugged, making the adventure even more thrilling.
Upper Mustang is deeply connected to Tibetan culture. You will experience Buddhist rituals, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and traditional mud-brick houses. You will see centuries-old monasteries, ancient caves carved into walls, and traditional Tibetan-style settlements. The landscapes are extremely dry and rugged, yet very beautiful.
This Jeep safari is ideal for all types of travelers of all ages who want to discover the hidden beauty of Nepal without the trekking challenges. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a unique experience, the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour promises a once-in-a-lifetime journey into the heart of the Himalayas.
- Destination: Nepal
- Trip Style: Tour
- Transport: Private Vehicle / Jeep
- Food: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner
- Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel + Teahouses + Lodges
- Group Size: Min 2
- Max Elevation: 4200m
Highlights
Key Highlights of Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
• Off-road trip through Marpha, Jomsom, Kagbeni, and Lo Manthang with stunning mountain views.
• Witness Kali Gandaki, the deepest gorge in the world and the red cliffs of Chhusang.
• Explore 'Mini Tibet', home to rich Tibetan culture, traditions, and lifestyles.
• Visit the walled city of Lo Manthang, with ancient monasteries, chortens, and meditation caves.
• Muktinath Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.
• Visit Chhosar Cave, used for meditation, living, and burials in ancient times.
• Scenic views of barren deserts, rugged canyons, and towering peaks like Dhaulagiri and Annapurna.
• Relax in the hot springs at Tatopani.
• Taste apple pie, apples, and apple wine in Marpha.
• Capture stunning photos of prayer flags, Tibetan villages, and ancient monasteries.
• If visiting in May, experience the Tiji Festival with masked dances and cultural performances.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01Arrival at Tribhuwan-International airport - Kathmandu (Elevation 1350 m).
Day 02Drive to Pokhara (Elevation 820 m).
Day 03Drive Pokhara to Beni to Tatopani (Elevation 2600 m).
Day 04Drive from Tatopani to Kagbeni (2900m. Elevation) and visit Muktinath Temple (Elevation 3800 m.)
Day 05After official formalities of Special permit we drive to Ghami Village (3520 m. Elevation) Via Syngboche Pass (Elevation 4200 m.).
Day 06Drive to Lo-Mangthang (Elevation 3840 m.)
Day 07Exploration day in Lo-Manthang and Chhosar.
Day 08Drive back to Jomsom (Elevation 2743 m.)
Day 09Drive to Pokhara (Elevation 820m.)
Day 10Drive/Fly back to Kathmandu (Elevation 1350m.)
Day 11Final departure from Kathmandu.
What to Expect
What's included
- Full board meal(lunch,breakfast,dinner) during the tour.
- Three-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with buffet breakfast included.
- Standard accommodation during the tour.
- A local government licensed English-speaking Guide during the trek, their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and transportation.
- All needed permits for Annapurna Conservation and Upper Mustang.
- Jeep (driver's salary, food, accommodation, and fuel )
- All our government taxes.
- Official expense.
What's not included
- Your travel insurance.
- Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, and laundry.
- Personal trekking Equipment.
- Tips for trekking staff and driver-tipping are expected.
- Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the Price Includes section.
PRICES & DATES
| Trip Dates | Availability | Price | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 05 May, 2025 - 14 May, 2025 | Guaranteed | US$1595 | ||
| 12 May, 2025 - 21 May, 2025 | Guaranteed | US$1595 | ||
| 19 May, 2025 - 28 May, 2025 | Guaranteed | US$1595 | ||
| 26 May, 2025 - 04 Jun, 2025 | Guaranteed | US$1595 |
Useful Information
Permits for Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
You will need special permits to visit Upper Mustang due to the region's unique culture and history. The area has been restricted since 1992. To enter, you will need two permits: the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), along with a TIMS card.
The Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit costs US $500 for 10 days. This period starts from Kagbeni, not counting the nights, and extra days cost US $50 per day. It is important to know that you need at least two members in your group to get the permit. If you're traveling alone, we can help by joining you with other groups.
You will need to provide a copy of your passport to obtain these permits. The prices of permits may vary depending on the season. For example, during autumn and spring, the cost might be higher. Our company will handle all the permits and logistics for you, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey to this hidden kingdom.
Best Seasons for Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour can be done at any time of the year. However, some seasons are better than others. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn. These seasons are from March to May and September to November. The weather is clear, the temperatures are moderate, and nature looks stunning during this time. You will also get the best views of the mountains.
If you want a quieter trip, you can consider visiting during winter or monsoon. During winter, it gets very cold with temperatures dropping below zero. But the skies are clear, and days are warm. In monsoon, the lower regions may get rain, but Upper Mustang stays dry because it lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. These off-seasons bring fewer travelers, which means you can enjoy the region with fewer crowds.
Overall, spring and autumn are the most favorable times for the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour, offering you the best weather and views.
Food and Accommodation in Upper Mustang Jeep Tour
When you are in the cities, you will find a wide variety of food options. These include local dishes, Asian cuisine, and continental food. You can choose from many restaurants but remember the taste might be a little different from what you are used to.
In the mountain areas, food options become more limited. For breakfast in the mountains, you can enjoy options like Tibetan bread, French toast, eggs, pancakes, and porridge. You can also have hot beverages to warm you up in the cool mornings. You will get local dishes like momo (dumplings), dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), parathas, fried rice, and other Nepali meals. These dishes are made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients and are quite tasty. A popular dish you should try is Dal Bhat, which is healthy and filling.
When it comes to accommodation, in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will stay in three-star hotels. In Mustang, you will stay in guesthouses or teahouses. Most places provide rooms with attached bathrooms, but in some areas, especially at higher altitudes, you might find shared sinks and toilets.
Accommodation in lower-altitude areas is easier to arrange with single rooms available. However, in higher altitudes, finding a single room can be more difficult. But don't worry, the accommodation in these areas is comfortable enough to make your stay pleasant. Also, most teahouses offer Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected. The comfort level of your accommodation depends on your budget and the availability in the region.
