Welcome to Kathmandu, the bustling capital of Nepal and the gateway to your adventure in Lower Mustang. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly received by our Summit Nepal Adventure representative and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. Take this day to rest after your journey and soak in the vibrant culture around you. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to stroll around Thamel, Kathmandu’s lively tourist district, filled with shops, cafes, and local eateries. Overnight at the hotel.
After a hearty breakfast, you will explore on a cultural exploration of the Kathmandu Valley. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and the ancient city of Patan Durbar Square. Each site offers a glimpse into Nepal’s rich spiritual and architectural heritage. In the afternoon, return to your hotel for a comprehensive trek briefing by the Summit Nepal Adventure team. This includes a detailed discussion about the itinerary, packing essentials, safety measures, and an opportunity to meet your guides and porters. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Today, you’ll travel to Pokhara by private vehicle or tourist bus. The journey takes approximately 6 to 8 hours, passing through picturesque countryside, terraced fields, and charming rural villages. Pokhara, nestled beside the tranquil Phewa Lake and surrounded by the Annapurna mountain range, is renowned for its serene beauty. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening by the lakeside or explore the bustling lakeside market area. Prepare for your flight to Jomsom the following day.
An early morning scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom brings you to the edge of the Mustang region. Jomsom’s rugged landscape and stark beauty offer a glimpse into the trans-Himalayan culture you are about to experience. From Jomsom, begin your trek along the Kali Gandaki River towards Kagbeni, a fortified village and the gateway to Upper Mustang. The 3-hour trek is relatively gentle, allowing you to acclimatize gradually. Explore Kagbeni’s ancient streets and visit the local monastery, a great introduction to Mustang’s unique Tibetan-influenced culture. Overnight at a local lodge.
Today’s trek ascends to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. The trail passes through rugged terrain and offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival, visit the Muktinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and the nearby natural springs and eternal flame, which are central to the spiritual significance of the site. Spend time exploring the monastery and absorbing the serene atmosphere. Overnight at a comfortable lodge in Muktinath.
Spend a leisurely day exploring the spiritual and cultural richness of Muktinath and its surroundings. Take time to wander the peaceful village, interact with local Tibetan and Nepali inhabitants, and visit the nearby Jharkot village and monastery, known for its ancient murals and sacred statues. This day allows for acclimatization and rest before the trek back. Enjoy the spectacular mountain vistas and clear blue skies typical of Mustang. Overnight at the lodge in Muktinath.
Today, you’ll retrace your steps along the Kali Gandaki Valley back to Jomsom. The descent is easier on the legs but still demands attention as the trail winds through the river valley. Along the way, take in the rugged landscapes, rocky cliffs, and fluttering prayer flags. Upon arrival in Jomsom, you can relax and celebrate the completion of the trek portion with your trekking companions. Overnight at a lodge in Jomsom.
A short morning flight takes you back to the more temperate climes of Pokhara. The rest of the day is free for leisure or additional sightseeing. You might choose to enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake, visit the World Peace Pagoda, or explore Pokhara’s vibrant markets. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind and reflect on your Mustang journey before heading back to Kathmandu. Overnight in Pokhara.
After breakfast, Drive to Kathmandu. Enjoy the changing scenery along the route and perhaps stop at points of interest such as Bandipur, a charming hilltop town. Arrive in Kathmandu in the afternoon, where you can spend your last evening shopping for souvenirs or dining in one of the city’s excellent restaurants. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a relaxed morning with some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Kathmandu. Our Summit Nepal Adventure representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey home, bidding you farewell and wishing you safe travels. We hope your Lower Mustang trek has been an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
The Lower Mustang Trek is a culturally rich and scenic trekking experience located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Unlike the more challenging Upper Mustang route, the Lower Mustang trek is less strenuous, making it ideal for trekkers of all experience levels. The region lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, meaning it is accessible even during the monsoon season. With stunning views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri, a visit to the sacred Muktinath Temple, and the opportunity to explore centuries-old Tibetan-influenced villages like Kagbeni and Jomsom, the trek offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and religious significance.
The Lower Mustang Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for beginners as well as seasoned hikers looking for a culturally immersive experience without the demands of high-altitude trekking. The trail reaches a maximum elevation of around 3,800 meters at Muktinath, which is high enough to offer majestic Himalayan views, yet low enough to minimize the risks of altitude sickness. Daily walking hours typically range from 4 to 6 hours, making it a manageable trek for most people with average fitness levels.
The best seasons for the Lower Mustang Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is stable, skies are generally clear, and the temperatures are pleasant. However, one of the advantages of the Lower Mustang region is its location in the Himalayan rain shadow, which means it can also be trekked during the monsoon season (June to August) when most other routes are less favorable due to heavy rain. Winter treks (December to February) are possible too, though temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night.
Summit Nepal Adventure ensures that trekkers stay in comfortable, locally-run tea houses throughout the trek. These accommodations provide a clean bed, warm blankets, and basic amenities. The food available typically includes Nepali staples like dal bhat (rice with lentils and vegetables), Tibetan bread, momos (dumplings), pasta, soups, and pancakes. Most tea houses also serve hot drinks like tea, coffee, and herbal infusions. While facilities are more basic in remote areas, we prioritize hygiene, comfort, and hospitality.
Yes, two permits are required to complete the Lower Mustang Trek: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits help fund conservation efforts and ensure the safety of trekkers in the region. Summit Nepal Adventure handles all necessary permit arrangements on your behalf, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
The trek usually begins in Jomsom, which is accessible by a short scenic flight from Pokhara. Alternatively, for those who prefer overland travel, a long but adventurous jeep ride via Beni and Tatopani can also be arranged. Summit Nepal Adventure organizes all domestic travel logistics, including flights, ground transport, and overnight stays if needed, to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
For this trek, you should pack lightweight but warm layers, including a down jacket, fleece, moisture-wicking shirts, trekking pants, a rain jacket, and a good pair of hiking boots. Don't forget essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, reusable water bottle, headlamp, and personal medications. Summit Nepal Adventure provides a detailed packing list upon booking to ensure you're fully prepared.
While the risk of altitude sickness is relatively low compared to higher treks like Everest Base Camp or Upper Mustang, it can still affect some individuals above 2,500 meters. The trek's gradual ascent profile and relatively lower elevations reduce this risk. Our experienced guides at Summit Nepal Adventure monitor each trekker’s health closely and follow best practices such as slow pacing, proper hydration, and acclimatization rest days if needed.
Absolutely. Summit Nepal Adventure specializes in customized trekking itineraries based on your preferences, time frame, and fitness level. Whether you want to extend your stay in Pokhara, explore nearby routes like Poon Hill, or include a cultural tour of Kathmandu, we can tailor your journey to suit your travel goals. Private treks, group treks, and family-friendly packages are all available.
Summit Nepal Adventure is a locally operated trekking company with years of experience guiding travelers through Nepal’s diverse landscapes. Our team is committed to offering safe, personalized, and culturally immersive trekking experiences. We focus on small groups, provide licensed and knowledgeable guides, and ensure ethical tourism practices that support local communities. From your first inquiry to the final farewell, we handle every detail with care and professionalism.
