Upper Mustang Trek via Teri La
Upper Mustang Trek via Teri La Overview
The Upper Mustang Trek via Teri-La is a rare and adventurous Himalayan journey that combines remote trekking, high mountain passes, ancient Tibetan culture, and the hidden kingdom of Mustang. This extended trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Nepal, offering dramatic landscapes and deep cultural immersion.
The trek begins in Kathmandu, with time allocated for permit preparation before traveling to Besisahar and Koto, the gateway to the secluded Nar Phu Valley. The trail gradually ascends through narrow gorges, alpine forests, and traditional villages such as Meta, Kayang, Phu, and Nar, where ancient monasteries and stone-built settlements reflect centuries-old Tibetan lifestyles. Proper acclimatization days ensure a safe and rewarding high-altitude experience.
One of the major highlights of the trek is crossing the challenging Tri-La Pass (5,595 m), offering spectacular views of snow-covered peaks and rugged Himalayan terrain. After descending into the trans-Himalayan region, the journey continues into Upper Mustang, exploring culturally rich villages such as Yara, Tsarang, Ghami, and Lo Manthang, the former walled capital of the Mustang Kingdom. The region’s desert-like landscapes, cave dwellings, monasteries, and dramatic cliffs create a unique trekking experience unlike anywhere else in Nepal.
The trek concludes with a scenic drive to Jomsom, followed by a short flight to Pokhara and a comfortable return to Kathmandu. This trek is best suited for adventure trekkers, high-altitude enthusiasts, and cultural explorers looking to experience Nepal’s most restricted and remote Himalayan regions in one epic journey.
Things That You Need to Know
Best Season to Trek:
Autumn (September - November) and spring (March-May) are the best trekking seasons for the Upper Mustang region. Weather is mostly clear and the temperature is moderate, offering beautiful views without obstruction. Being a rain shadow area, trekking is also favorable during the summer monsoon months, but spring and autumn provide the most stable conditions.
Experience & Fitness:
The Upper Mustang Trek is a challenging route that requires good physical fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience. Trekking in the Himalayas always involves challenging altitudes and rocky routes, demanding proper rest time and acclimatization to sustain strength. Our itinerary includes these rest days. However, certain training like running, skipping, and other workouts will definitely help you.
Acclimatization:
Altitude sickness is a significant risk when trekking on any trails above about 2,500m. Good health, proper care, and drinking plenty of water will definitely help you prevent altitude sickness. Our itinerary includes life-saving acclimatization days. We also provide medical support and can arrange emergency helicopter rescue whenever guests require.
Our Team:
Global Nepal Treks provides native leaders and staff working in this field perfectly for many years to overcome tough challenges. They are trained and well-certified by the Government of Nepal. All of our staff have received emergency guidance in the Himalayas and have knowledge of first aid for our guests. We never compromise on safety; therefore we provide insurance and medical services during the trek.
Eco-Friendly:
We only leave footprints! Global Nepal Treks is very concerned about environmental pollution and Global Warming. We collect all rubbish and deposit it in a proper place to protect our environment. We also partake in every program conducted by KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Education Project).
Helping Hand:
Profit-oriented is not only our priority! We have been helping some villagers from different corners of Nepal to sustain their social life and help them with education and required materials. If you are interested please contact us: info@globalnepaltreks.com. Support us to be their Helping Hand.
Note:
We have a tailor-made program for the Upper Mustang Trek. Days in the itinerary are always flexible and can be increased or decreased depending on your holiday and time schedule. Trekking in the Himalayan region goes through unexpected complications like natural and health challenges. For your security, our professional guides and leader may change the itinerary to take you to the final point safe and sound, so please cooperate with your guide for your protection.
Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (1,350m). Welcome by Global Nepal Treks Member and direct transfer to hotel on Bed & Breakfast plan.
Permit Preparation Day
Day in Kathmandu for preparation and obtaining necessary trekking permits for the restricted Upper Mustang region. Overnight at hotel.
Drive to Besisahar & Koto
Drive to Besisahar by local van, then continue by 4WD jeep to Koto (2,610m). This is a long day of scenic driving (8-9 hours).
Trek to Dharamsala or Meta
Trek to Dharamsala (3,250m) or Meta (3,360m) through beautiful landscapes. Overnight at homestay.
Trek to Kayang Village
Continue trekking to Kayang Village (3,740m). Experience the remote village life. Overnight at homestay.
Trek to Phu Village
Trek to the impressive Phu Village (4,080m), a hidden gem with ancient culture. Overnight at homestay.
Acclimatization in Phu
Rest day for acclimatization. Explore the monastery and traditional village life in Phu. Overnight at the same homestay.
Trek to Mahendrapul
Trek to Mahendrapul (3,490m). Overnight at homestay.
Trek to Nar Village
Trek to the beautiful Nar Village (4,110m), nestled in a high valley. Overnight at homestay.
Trek to Yak Kharka
Trek to Yak Kharka (approx. 4,400m). The landscape becomes more alpine. Overnight in tent.
Trek to Lapse Khola
Continue to Lapse Khola (4,800m) preparing for the pass crossing. Overnight in tent.
Trek to High Camp
Trek to High Camp (5,232m) for an early start over the pass. Overnight in tent.
Cross Teri La Pass & Descent
Cross the challenging Teri La Pass (5,595m) – the highest point. Descend to Pasphukhaola (approx. 4,730m). A long and rewarding day (8-9 hours). Overnight in tent.
Trek to Yakpa
Continue descending and trek to Yakpa (4,300m). Overnight in tent.
Trek to Tanabe
Trek to Tanabe (3,240m). The landscape begins to change. Overnight at homestay.
Trek to Yara Village
Trek to Yara Village (3,650m) in Upper Mustang. Overnight at homestay.
Trek to Tsarang
Trek to Tsarang (3,560m), home to the famous Tsarang Monastery. Overnight at Lodge.
Trek to Lo-Manthang
Trek to the walled capital, Lo-Manthang (3,810m). Overnight at Lodge.
Explore Lo-Manthang
Full day for exploration around Lo-Manthang, visiting monasteries, the royal palace, and experiencing the unique culture. Overnight at Lodge.
Trek to Ghami
Trek back to Ghami (3,520m). Overnight at Lodge.
Drive to Jomsom
Scenic drive to Jomsom (2,720m) through the Kali Gandaki Valley. Overnight at Lodge.
Fly to Pokhara
Morning domestic flight to Pokhara (25 min). Transfer to hotel on Bed & Breakfast plan.
Drive back to Kathmandu
Morning drive back to Kathmandu by tourist bus. Overnight at hotel on Bed & Breakfast plan.
Departure
Departure from Kathmandu to your onward destination.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Airport Pick up & drops by Private Transport
- All Transportation (including drives and flights as per itinerary)
- 3 meals per day during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) including Tea or coffee each mealtime
- Accommodation on Guest House / Lodge / Homestay / Tent as per itinerary
- Selected Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
- Experienced English Speaking Guide
- Necessary Porter (1 porter for 2 guests, carrying 20-25 kg)
- All Government local Taxes
- National Park Fees / ACAP Permit
- TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card
- Special Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang
- First Aid kit (compulsory for groups above 6 pax from Agency)
- Guide and porter salary
- All Guide & Porter insurance during the trekking
- Company T-shirt as a Gift
- Tour Certificate
Excluded
- Trekking equipment (personal gear like sleeping bags, down jackets)
- Personal expenses such as Alcoholic Beverage drinks, phone, and Laundry
- Emergency Rescue and Travel Insurance (Mandatory, we advise you to take out personal Travel Insurance)
- Trip Cancellation cost due to accident, Health, Loss, Theft or Damage to personal effects
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Essential Information
Trip Code
GNT-UMT
Trip Type
Restricted-area trek, remote pass crossing via Nar Phu Valley and Upper Mustang
Accommodation
Hotels in Kathmandu/Pokhara; homestays in Phu/Nar/Yara; teahouses/lodges in Lower Mustang and Lo Manthang; tented camping for the high-pass section (4–5 nights)
Meals
Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during trek; breakfast only in Kathmandu/Pokhara
Transportation
Private vehicle/jeep to Koto, on foot for the trekking sections, domestic flight Jomsom–Pokhara, tourist bus Pokhara–Kathmandu
Best Time to Visit
Autumn and Spring Trekking Conditions — Clear skies, moderate temperatures, the most stable window for crossing Teri La Pass. Monsoon Trekking Is Possible — Rain-shadow location allows summer trekking, though mountain views may be obscured by clouds.
Difficulty Level
Why This Trek Is Rated Challenging — Combines high altitude, a technical glaciated pass crossing, and remote, unsupported terrain. Crossing Teri La Pass (5,595m) — 8–9 hours over glaciated and rocky terrain, the trek's single hardest day.
Fitness Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Upper Mustang Trek via Teri La?
This is a challenging trek, rated as strenuous. It involves crossing the high Teri La Pass (5,595m), multiple days of walking at altitudes over 4,000m, and some remote camping sections. It requires excellent physical fitness, stamina, and ideally some previous high-altitude trekking experience.
What is the best time to do the Upper Mustang Trek?
The best seasons are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). These offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures for crossing the pass. Being a rain-shadow area, trekking is also possible in the monsoon, but clouds may obscure mountain views.
Do I need a special permit for Upper Mustang?
Yes, Upper Mustang is a restricted area. You need a special Restricted Area Permit (RAP) in addition to the ACAP and TIMS card. These permits are included in our package price and are arranged for you, as they cannot be obtained individually.
What is the maximum altitude on this trek?
The highest point reached is the Teri La Pass at 5,595 meters (18,356 feet). Proper acclimatization is crucial, and our itinerary is designed with this in mind, including rest days and a gradual ascent profile.
What is the accommodation like on this trek?
Accommodation varies. It includes teahouses/lodges in the Lower Mustang and Jomsom areas, homestays in remote villages like Phu and Nar, and camping tents for the high pass section (around 4-5 nights). This is part of the adventurous experience.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Yes, strong prior trekking experience is highly recommended for this demanding route. The combination of altitude, pass crossing, and remote terrain makes it unsuitable for complete beginners.
What is the Teri La Pass crossing like?
Crossing Teri La (5,595m) is the most challenging day of the trek. It involves a long day (8-9 hours) of steep ascent and descent over glaciated and rocky terrain. You need to be well-acclimatized, physically prepared, and equipped with good boots and trekking poles. The views from the top are spectacular and rewarding.
What kind of food will be available?
During the lodge and homestay sections, you can expect Nepali and Tibetan staples like dal bhat, momos, and noodles. On the camping days, our crew will prepare simple but nutritious and hearty meals to keep your energy up.
What permits are required for this trek?
You will need three permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card, and the special Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang. All are included and arranged by us.
What makes Upper Mustang culturally unique?
Upper Mustang is often called the "Last Forbidden Kingdom" due to its long isolation. It retains a strong Tibetan Buddhist culture, with ancient monasteries, chortens, prayer flags, and the walled city of Lo Manthang. The language, architecture, and lifestyle are heavily influenced by Tibet, making it a culturally immersive experience distinct from the rest of Nepal.
What is the weather like on the trek?
Weather in the Trans-Himalayan region is generally dry. Days can be sunny and pleasant (10-20°C) but nights are very cold, especially at higher elevations and camping sites, often dropping well below freezing. Proper warm clothing and a good sleeping bag are essential.
Do guides and porters speak English?
Yes, your main guide will be an experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking guide. We also have access to guides speaking other languages like French, German, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean upon request.
Is travel insurance mandatory?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for this trek. It must cover high-altitude trekking up to at least 6,000 meters, including emergency evacuation by helicopter, medical expenses, and trip cancellation.
How do I get to the start of the trek?
The trek starts after a long but scenic drive from Kathmandu to Koto, which marks the entrance to the Nar Phu Valley. This is part of the adventure and is included in your package.
Can I charge my electronic devices?
Charging facilities are available at lodges and some homestays for a small fee. On the camping nights, there will be no charging options. A high-capacity power bank is essential.