Mystic Kingdoms of Mustang: The 5-Star Tiji Festival Journey 2026

Journey: 05/10/2026 - 05/19/2026 Duration: 10 Days Double Sharing Price: $4950 pp Single Room Price: $5750 pp Limited To: 2-16

The Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Tour will be one of the few chances to observe one of the most colourful and religious festivals in the remote kingdom of Mustang in Nepal. This cultural trip is set against the spectacular scenery of trans-Himalayan with a three-day visit to the walled city of Lo-Manthang in which the Tiji Festival is held every three days with age-old Buddhist practices, masked dances, and spiritual chanting by the monks of the Choede Monastery. The Tiji tour is not only a festival, it is also a cultural journey into the rich Tibetan culture of Mustang. The tourists do not only get to witness the special rituals that represent the victory of the good over the evil, but also get to visit the spectacular deserts and the medieval caves and ancient monasteries of Mustang. With adventure trekking, high altitude scenery, and less frequented cultural experience, Tiji Festival Tour in Upper Mustang is a one time in a life time experience of the untamed beauty of Nepal, the final forbidden kingdom.

 

Trip Overview

  • Witness the three-day Tiji Festival in LoManthang — a rare, sacred pageant of masked cham dances, horns, and monkly chants in the royal courtyard.
  • Privileged access to the walled city of LoManthang, with guided visits to monasteries and the former royal precincts.
  • Scenic approach across the Kali Gandaki Gorge by private 4×4, tracing Thakali villages and windcarved canyons.
  • Explore the ancient Chhoser sky caves and highdesert monasteries that preserve Mustang’s Tibetan heritage.
  • Panoramas of ochre cliffs, glacial valleys, and the transHimalayan rainshadow — stark, luminous, unforgettable.
  • Immersive cultural encounters — tea houses, artisan traditions, and the living rhythms of Mustang village life.
  • Thoughtful pacing at altitude with expert local guides and careful acclimatization built into the journey.
  • Seamless air connections between Kathmandu and Pokhara; all permits (Upper Mustang RAP & ACAP) handled for you.
  • Comfortforward routing by Jeep between Jomsom, Ghami, and LoManthang to maximize time on the ground.
  • Smallgroup warmth with concierge support and flexible moments for photography and quiet exploration.

A travel experience like no other

Curated journeys of festivals, celebration, culture, and exclusive experiences

  • Witness the three-day Tiji Festival in LoManthang — a rare, sacred pageant of masked cham dances, horns, and monkly chants in the royal courtyard.
  • Privileged access to the walled city of LoManthang, with guided visits to monasteries and the former royal precincts.
  • Scenic approach across the Kali Gandaki Gorge by private 4×4, tracing Thakali villages and windcarved canyons.
  • Explore the ancient Chhoser sky caves and highdesert monasteries that preserve Mustang’s Tibetan heritage.
  • Panoramas of ochre cliffs, glacial valleys, and the transHimalayan rainshadow — stark, luminous, unforgettable.
  • Immersive cultural encounters — tea houses, artisan traditions, and the living rhythms of Mustang village life.
  • Thoughtful pacing at altitude with expert local guides and careful acclimatization built into the journey.
  • Seamless air connections between Kathmandu and Pokhara; all permits (Upper Mustang RAP & ACAP) handled for you.
  • Comfortforward routing by Jeep between Jomsom, Ghami, and LoManthang to maximize time on the ground.
  • Smallgroup warmth with concierge support and flexible moments for photography and quiet exploration.
Day 1
  • VIP airport meet & greet and private transfer to hotel
  •  Traditional Nepali welcome ceremony
  • Introductory trip briefing and orientation
  • Evening at leisure to relax or explore nearby bazaars
Day 2
  • Guided visit to Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) with sweeping valley views
  • Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, its temples and royal architecture
  • Experience a panoramic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara over Himalayan foothills
  •  Leisurely evening walk along Phewa Lake, with reflections of the Annapurna range
  • Enjoy dinner featuring local Nepali flavors and mountain hospitality
  • Overnight at Temple Himalaya, Pokhara – a tranquil lakeside sanctuary
Day 3
  • Full-day scenic jeep journey from Pokhara to Jomsom along the Kali Gandaki corridor
  • Pass through Beni, Tatopani, Ghasa, and Marpha, witnessing daily mountain life
  • Admire contrasts between lush river valleys and stark highland terrain
  • Encounter Thakali traditions, architecture, and cuisine along the route
  • Stop for photographs and local tea at picturesque roadside villages
  • Evening exploration of Jomsom town and views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri peaks
  • Overnight stay at The Old Kamala Hotel, Jomsom (2,720 m)
Day 4
  • Journey along the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the world’s deepest and most dramatic canyons
  • Visit Kagbeni, the ancient entry point to Upper Mustang
  • Travel through Chele, Syangboche, and Gheling, remote villages rich in Tibetan heritage
  • Experience vivid contrasts of colorful cliffs, chortens, and high desert landscapes
  • Gain altitude gradually and acclimate amid breathtaking Himalayan views
  • Learn about Mustang’s Buddhist traditions and unique architecture
  • Overnight stay at The Royal Mustang, Ghami (3,520 m)
Day 5
  • Scenic 4×4 drive through Upper Mustang’s high-desert canyons toward Lo-Manthang
  • Enter the walled capital of the former Kingdom of Lo (3,840 m)
  • Witness the opening day of the Tiji Festival, an ancient Buddhist celebration of renewal
  • Experience the masked cham dances and long-horn ceremonies at Chhoede Monastery
  • Explore Lo-Manthang’s royal palace, monasteries, and whitewashed lanes
  • Photograph the sunset over the windswept plateau and prayer-flag-lined rooftops
  • Overnight at Hotel Tashi Delek, Lo-Manthang
Day 6
  • Attend the second day of the Tiji Festival, rich in sacred symbolism and vibrant color
  •  Witness elaborate masked cham dances by monks of Chhoede Monastery
  • Engage with locals adorned in traditional Mustang attire and turquoise jewelry
  •  Explore Lo-Manthang’s labyrinthine streets, prayer walls, and rooftop vistas
  • Learn the mythic story of Dorje Shunu, the deity who restores balance to the world
  • Enjoy the contrast between ceremonial grandeur and the serene, monastic quiet of the evening
  • Overnight stay at Hotel Tashi Delek, Lo-Manthang
Day 7
  •  Celebrate the final day of the Tiji Festival, the dramatic climax of Mustang’s most sacred event
  • Witness the symbolic banishment of evil spirits — the ritual restoration of harmony
  • Experience the festival’s grand finale of masked cham dances, horns, and drums
  • Observe villagers from across Mustang gathered in traditional dress and vibrant jewelry
  • Visit Chhoede Monastery and surrounding prayer walls in the quiet after the festival
  •  Savor the evening light over Lo-Manthang’s rooftops as calm returns to the walled city
  •  Overnight stay at Hotel Tashi Delek, Lo-Manthang
Day 8
  • Journey from Lo-Manthang through Mustang’s legendary high-desert trails
  • Traverse ancient trade villages — Ghami, Gheling, and Kagbeni — rich with Tibetan heritage
  •  Photograph the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge and its eroded cliffs and chortens
  •  Witness the shifting landscape from barren plateaus to fertile Himalayan foothills
  • Experience daily life in rural Mustang, from yak caravans to terraced farmlands
  • Arrive in Jomsom and unwind in comfort at The Old Kamala Hotel
Day 9
  • Enjoy a full-day scenic drive through changing Himalayan ecosystems — from alpine deserts to subtropical forests
  • Pass through charming villages such as Marpha, Ghasa, and Tatopani
  • Follow the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge, framed by the peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri
  • Witness cascading waterfalls, terraced farmlands, and lush river valleys
  • Stroll the Pokhara lakeside promenade and admire views of Machapuchare reflected in the water
  • Rest and rejuvenate at Temple Himalaya, a tranquil haven in the heart of Pokhara
Day 10
  • Enjoy a scenic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu with panoramic Himalayan views
  • Spend your final afternoon exploring Kathmandu’s artisan shops and temples
  • Reflect on the unforgettable cultural and spiritual journey through Upper Mustang
  • Experience a seamless private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure
  • Farewell to Nepal’s mountain landscapes, timeless traditions, and warm-hearted hospitality
  • Optional late check-out or day-use room at Hotel Yak & Yeti, Kathmandu
Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu | Gateway to the Himalayas

Approx. Travel Time: 30–45 minutes (airport → hotel)
Mode of Transport: Private vehicle
Difficulty: Easy

Arrive in the storied capital of Nepal, where ancient temples meet the rhythm of modern life. A warm Seek and Savor welcome awaits as you’re met at Tribhuvan International Airport and escorted to your hotel. Settle in, exhale, and allow the adventure ahead to begin unfolding amid the hum of prayer wheels and distant temple bells.

Your Himalayan journey begins in Kathmandu, the spiritual and cultural heart of Nepal. Upon arrival, a Seek and Savor representative greets you with a traditional garland and warm hospitality before transferring you in comfort to your hotel. Once checked in, take time to rest and acclimate as your guide provides an informal briefing covering the coming days in Mustang and the Tiji Festival. Later, wander through nearby lanes where incense drifts from tiny shrines and prayer flags flutter above bustling courtyards. This first evening is left open—perhaps enjoy a quiet dinner in the hotel’s garden or explore the lively streets that frame Kathmandu’s timeless charm.

Hotel:
Overnight at Yak and Yeti, Kathmandu

  • Dinner
Day 2

Kathmandu’s Sacred Heritage & Scenic Flight to Pokhara

Approx. Travel Time: Local sightseeing (3–4 hrs) + Flight 25–30 mins
Mode of Transport: Private vehicle & flight
Difficulty: Easy

Awaken to the cultural heart of Nepal and explore Kathmandu’s spiritual and royal treasures before flying westward toward the serenity of Pokhara. From the gilded spire of Swayambhunath to the timeless courtyards of Durbar Square, each site reveals centuries of devotion and artistry. By afternoon, soar above terraced hills and winding rivers to reach the tranquil lakeside town of Pokhara, where the reflection of the Annapurna range glimmers across Phewa Lake.

This morning, your journey begins amid the living history of Kathmandu Valley. Your guide leads you through the sacred hilltop of Swayambhunath Stupa—its all-seeing eyes watching over the valley as prayer flags ripple in the breeze. Continue to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where ancient pagodas, palace façades, and carved wooden balconies whisper stories of Nepal’s Malla kings.

After lunch, transfer to the airport for a short scenic flight to Pokhara, tracing the snow-tipped peaks of the Himalayas from the window. Upon arrival, the pace softens. An evening stroll along Phewa Lake reveals a softer side of Nepal—boats drifting through still waters, candlelit cafés, and mountain silhouettes glowing gold at dusk. Rest tonight at Temple Himalaya, a comfortable retreat blending contemporary hospitality with a serene Himalayan outlook.

Hotel:
Overnight stay at Pokhara Grande, Pokhara

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 3

Through Valleys and Villages | Scenic Drive from Pokhara to Jomsom

Approx. Travel Time: 8–9 hours by road
Mode of Transport: Private 4×4 Jeep
Difficulty: Moderate (long, scenic mountain drive; light walking at stops)

Journey northward from the green serenity of Pokhara into the dramatic landscapes of Mustang. Today’s overland adventure traces the Kali Gandaki River through charming villages and terraced hillsides, gradually climbing toward Jomsom—the windswept gateway to the ancient Kingdom of Mustang. Along the way, each turn reveals contrasts of lush valleys, waterfalls, and arid ridges that define the Himalayan frontier.

Your morning begins with the hum of engines and anticipation as you leave Pokhara, following the Kali Gandaki River into the rising folds of the Himalayas. The route passes through Beni, the last major town before the mountains claim the horizon, and continues through the villages of Tatopani, Ghasa, and Marpha—each offering glimpses into Nepal’s living mountain culture. Stop along the way for tea in local lodges, watch yak caravans wind their way across dusty paths, and breathe in the changing air as pine forests give way to barren, ochre-colored cliffs.

By late afternoon, you reach Jomsom (2,720 m), where the landscape opens into wide valleys of stone and wind. Wander through the village to experience the distinct Thakali culture, whose roots lie deep in the trans-Himalayan trade routes. The scent of apple orchards drifts through the crisp air—a hallmark of Mustang’s fertile lower reaches. This evening, unwind at The Old Kamala Hotel, a cozy, atmospheric lodge where warm meals and mountain hospitality set the tone for the adventure ahead.

Hotel:
Overnight at The Old Kamala hotel

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 4

Into the Forbidden Kingdom | Jomsom to Ghami

Approx. Travel Time: 6–7 hours by road
Mode of Transport: Private 4×4 Jeep
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (rugged high-altitude terrain)

Ascend from the river valleys of Lower Mustang into the stark, mystical beauty of the Upper Mustang region. Today’s route follows the legendary Kali Gandaki Gorge—one of the world’s deepest—carving through cliffs and ochre canyons shaped by wind and time. As the journey winds through Kagbeni, Chele, and Syangboche, the landscapes grow more dramatic and the air thinner, leading finally to the tranquil village of Ghami, nestled amid red-earth hills and timeless silence.

Depart Jomsom after breakfast and begin your ascent into the high-altitude wilderness of Upper Mustang. The road follows the serpentine Kali Gandaki River, cutting through gorges so deep they seem to swallow the horizon. Pass through the medieval gateway village of Kagbeni, where the lower Mustang valley narrows into ancient trading trails, and continue northward toward Chele and Syangboche. Along the way, the scenery transforms—green terraced hills give way to bare cliffs streaked with copper and ochre hues, sculpted by centuries of Himalayan wind.

You’ll pause in traditional villages to admire Tibetan-influenced architecture, prayer walls, and spinning mani wheels that line the pathways. By late afternoon, arrive in Ghami (3,520 m), one of Mustang’s most picturesque settlements, with its stone houses and crimson cliffs glowing in the evening light. Spend time exploring the village or simply soaking in the peaceful highland atmosphere before settling into The Royal Mustang, a comfortable guesthouse where hospitality and tranquility define the evening.

Hotel:
Overnight at The Royal Mustang, Ghami

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 5

Arrival in the Walled Kingdom | First Day of the Tiji Festival

Approx. Travel Time: 4–5 hours by road
Mode of Transport: Private 4×4 Jeep + walking (1–2 hrs within Lo-Manthang)
Difficulty: Moderate (high altitude; festival walking)

Today’s journey carries you into the heart of the former Kingdom of Lo — the fabled walled city of Lo-Manthang, where the Tiji Festival begins amid a swirl of drums, horns, and color. Crossing windswept plateaus and eroded cliffs, you’ll arrive in time to witness the first day of this ancient celebration, when masked monks dance to retell the triumph of good over evil. Within Lo-Manthang’s whitewashed walls, time itself feels suspended — each footstep echoing centuries of Himalayan devotion.

Depart Ghami this morning and travel north through the rugged landscapes that define Upper Mustang. The road follows ridgelines and desert valleys, unfolding endless vistas of ochre cliffs and Himalayan summits shimmering in the distance. By midday, the city walls of Lo-Manthang (3,840 m) rise before you — a bastion of Tibetan culture preserved in stone and silence.

As you enter through the ancient gate, the first day of the Tiji Festival is underway. The central square fills with the sound of long copper horns, cymbals, and ritual chants. Monks from Chhoede Monastery emerge in elaborate silk robes and fearsome masks, performing sacred cham dances that tell the story of the deity Dorje Shunu’s victory over chaos and drought. Every gesture, every drumbeat, is centuries old — an unbroken lineage of faith.

Later, explore Lo-Manthang’s narrow alleys, centuries-old monasteries, and the modest royal palace that still anchors this medieval town. As evening light softens over the valley, return to Hotel Tashi Delek, where the rhythmic chanting from nearby monasteries drifts on the cool mountain air.

Hotel:
Overnight at Hotel Tashi Delek Lomanthang.

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 6

The Heart of Celebration | Second Day of the Tiji Festival

Approx. Travel Time: Minimal driving (local exploration)
Mode of Transport: On foot (within city & monastery visits)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (walking at altitude)

Immerse yourself in the second day of the Tiji Festival, when Lo-Manthang transforms into a vibrant canvas of color, devotion, and sound. The day unfolds with sacred cham dances performed by monks in resplendent brocade, accompanied by the echo of horns and drums resonating through the royal courtyard. Wander the lanes of this ancient city as villagers gather in traditional attire, turning the walled kingdom into a living expression of Himalayan faith.

Today is a deep dive into the living spirit of Mustang. As dawn touches Lo-Manthang’s rooftops, the monastery courtyards fill with monks, pilgrims, and villagers from distant valleys, all converging to witness the second day of the Tiji Festival. The performances retell mythic stories of compassion, courage, and the eternal triumph of good over evil — a ritual that has bound this community together for over six centuries.

You’ll witness monks from Chhoede Monastery donning intricate masks and swirling robes embroidered with sacred motifs, moving in slow, deliberate rhythm to the deep resonance of horns and drums. Locals, dressed in layers of handwoven wool and adorned with turquoise jewelry, offer butter lamps and juniper smoke to the gods. Between ceremonies, wander Lo-Manthang’s narrow alleyways, pausing to sip butter tea or chat with residents about the meaning of Tiji in their lives.

As the sun dips behind the Himalayas, the city glows in amber light and distant chants echo into the night — a moment of reverence and rare connection to a tradition almost untouched by time. Retire to Hotel Tashi Delek, where the night air hums with the fading rhythm of drums and wind through prayer flags.

Hotel:
Overnight at Hotel Tashi Delek Lomanthang.

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 7

The Triumph of Light | Final Day of the Tiji Festival

Approx. Travel Time: Minimal driving (festival venues within walking distance)
Mode of Transport: On foot
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (walking at altitude)

The final day of the Tiji Festival unfolds in a crescendo of color, energy, and devotion. Lo-Manthang’s courtyard becomes a living stage where myth and belief merge in a centuries-old ritual of renewal. As masked monks perform the climactic dance of victory, the ancient kingdom bids farewell to darkness and welcomes the season of harmony and light.

The third and final day of the Tiji Festival is the spiritual apex of Mustang’s most sacred celebration. Gather once more in the courtyard of Chhoede Monastery, where the masked monks reenact the mythic slaying of evil spirits by Dorje Shunu — a ritual that symbolizes the expulsion of suffering and the triumph of compassion. The rhythmic pounding of drums and the low drone of horns build to a dramatic climax as the “demons” are symbolically cast away, restoring peace to the kingdom.

Around you, villagers from every corner of Mustang gather in traditional finery, their turquoise and coral jewelry glinting in the sunlight. Children giggle among rows of butter lamps while elders whisper prayers under fluttering flags. The atmosphere is both electric and reverent — an ancient ritual performed under an endless Himalayan sky.

After the ceremonies, enjoy a quieter afternoon exploring Lo-Manthang’s monasteries and stone alleys at your own pace, or simply relax and take in the views from your hotel terrace. As twilight falls, the chants fade into silence, leaving only the whisper of the wind through prayer flags — a perfect ending to your time in the “Last Forbidden Kingdom.” Retire once more to Hotel Tashi Delek, surrounded by the echoes of centuries-old devotion.

Hotel:
Overnight at Hotel Tashi Delek Lomanthang.

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 8

Through the Kingdom’s Heartlands | Lo-Manthang to Jomsom

Approx. Travel Time: 8–9 hours by road
Mode of Transport: Private 4×4 Jeep
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (long mountain descent, dusty terrain)

Bid farewell to the walled kingdom of Lo-Manthang as you journey south through the high deserts of Mustang, retracing the ancient salt-trading route that once connected Tibet to Nepal. Today’s drive offers a striking tapestry of contrasts — barren red cliffs dissolving into emerald valleys, remote villages clinging to canyon walls, and the mighty Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the deepest in the world.

As dawn illuminates Lo-Manthang’s ochre walls, depart this timeless city and begin your descent through the wind-carved corridors of the Upper Mustang Valley. The road meanders through Ghami, Gheling, and Chele, revealing sheer rock faces painted in natural mineral hues and clusters of whitewashed homes built from sun-baked earth. Here, the geography itself tells a story — of ancient seas turned to desert and of civilizations that thrived in isolation.

Pause in the quiet village of Kagbeni, where the upper and lower Mustangs meet. Its labyrinth of narrow lanes, prayer wheels, and mani walls marks a cultural threshold between the Tibetan and Nepali worlds. Continuing southward, the landscape undergoes a remarkable transformation: the arid canyonlands gradually yield to terraced fields and cascading rivers.

By late afternoon, the familiar wind of Jomsom (2,720 m) greets you once again — crisp, dry, and scented faintly with pine. Settle into The Old Kamala Hotel, a comfortable retreat nestled amid the mountain ridges. The evening is yours to relax, savor a warm meal, and reflect on the surreal beauty of Mustang — a region that few travelers will ever truly know.

Hotel:
Overnight at The Old Kamala Hotel, Jomsom

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 9

Descent to Serenity | Jomsom to Pokhara

Approx. Travel Time: 7–8 hours by road
Mode of Transport: Private 4×4 Jeep
Difficulty: Moderate (long but scenic drive, mild walking in Pokhara)

Leave behind the arid highlands of Mustang as you journey south toward the lush, lake-filled valley of Pokhara. Today’s drive is one of contrasts — from the dry cliffs of Jomsom to the subtropical greenery of the Annapurna foothills — revealing the extraordinary diversity of Nepal’s landscapes in a single day.

Depart Jomsom after breakfast, descending gradually along the Kali Gandaki River, whose waters carve one of the deepest gorges on earth between the towering Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Along the way, pass through Marpha, famed for its stone-paved lanes and apple orchards, and Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs and terraced hillsides.

As the altitude drops, the landscape softens — pine forests give way to bamboo groves, the air grows warmer, and waterfalls tumble down mossy cliffs. Farmers tend to rice paddies, children wave from suspension bridges, and prayer flags flutter above riverside temples. By afternoon, the crisp mountain winds of Mustang have turned into the gentle breezes of Pokhara Valley.

Arriving in Pokhara, check into the Temple Himalaya, a serene lakeside retreat where comfort meets Himalayan charm. Spend the rest of the afternoon strolling along Phewa Lake, watching the reflection of Machapuchare’s “Fishtail Peak” ripple in the water, or unwind at a café overlooking the lake. The evening offers a moment of quiet reflection — a return to verdant beauty after days amid Mustang’s stark grandeur.

Hotel:
Overnight stay in Pokhara Grande, Pokhara

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 10

Farewell to the Himalayas | Pokhara to Kathmandu & Departure

Approx. Travel Time: 25–30 minutes by flight + 30 minutes airport transfer
Mode of Transport: Flight & private vehicle
Difficulty: Easy

This morning marks the final chapter of your Himalayan adventure. A short scenic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu offers sweeping aerial views of the snow-draped Annapurna and Manaslu ranges — a breathtaking farewell to the landscapes that have defined your journey.

Awaken to the tranquil stillness of Pokhara and enjoy a relaxed breakfast before heading to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu. As the plane ascends, the jagged peaks of the Himalayas unfold beneath you — a glittering panorama that feels both humbling and eternal.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, the rest of your day is at leisure. Spend your final hours browsing Thamel’s colorful markets for handcrafted souvenirs or strolling through Durbar Square, where temples and courtyards echo with centuries of history. Pause for a cup of spiced masala tea as you reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival, the warm encounters with local communities, and the awe-inspiring scenery that has filled each day.

Later, your private transfer will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. As prayer flags ripple in the wind and the scent of incense drifts through the air, take with you not only photographs, but the rare memory of having journeyed through one of the last true kingdoms of the Himalayas — a land of spirit, silence, and untamed beauty.

  • Breakfast
Day 1

Hotel Yak & Yeti – Kathmandu

A historic landmark in the heart of Kathmandu, Hotel Yak & Yeti captures the romance of old Nepal with a touch of timeless luxury. Housed partly within a former Rana palace, its Newari-inspired architecture, lush gardens, and art-lined corridors evoke the city’s regal heritage. After long flights or before Himalayan journeys, it offers a haven of calm with polished service, elegant dining, and tranquil courtyards alive with birdsong. Here, travelers experience the intersection of history and hospitality that has long defined Nepal’s capital.

Day 2 , Day 9

Pokhara Grande – Pokhara

Tucked between the serene lakeshore and the rising silhouettes of the Annapurna range, Pokhara Grande provides modern comfort with a distinctly Nepali soul. Its spacious rooms open toward the peaks, while the warm hospitality of its staff mirrors the calm of Phewa Lake. Whether enjoying a quiet morning coffee under bougainvillea or an evening swim as the sun fades behind Machapuchare, the hotel offers the ideal exhale after the winding road to Mustang. A blend of contemporary amenities and mountain serenity, it is both a retreat and a reawakening.

Day 3, Day 8

The Old Kamala Hotel – Jomsom (2,720 m)

Nestled along the windswept river valleys of Lower Mustang, The Old Kamala Hotel is a charming mountain lodge that embodies the warmth of Thakali hospitality. Its stone façades and wooden beams recall Mustang’s trading past, while simple yet inviting rooms offer comfort against the crisp alpine air. Evenings are marked by shared stories over hearty local meals and the scent of juniper drifting through the highland breeze. It is a place where time slows and the rhythm of Himalayan life feels within reach.

Day 4

The Royal Mustang – Ghami (3,520 m)

Set amid dramatic red cliffs and sun-bleached canyons, The Royal Mustang provides a rare blend of rustic charm and heartfelt comfort in the heart of Mustang’s high desert. The lodge is simple yet atmospheric—earth-toned walls, handcrafted wooden interiors, and the soft hum of wind across the ridges. Travelers find rest here after long days exploring ancient trails, welcomed by generous hosts and the tranquility of a village untouched by time. At night, a canopy of stars crowns the silence of Ghami’s timeless landscape.

Day 5 , Day 6 ,Day 7

Hotel Tashi Delek – Lo-Manthang

Inside the storied walls of the ancient kingdom, Hotel Tashi Delek offers a front-row seat to the living culture of Mustang. Its modest but well-kept rooms overlook whitewashed alleys and the monastery courtyards where the Tiji Festival unfolds in a vibrant blur of masks, horns, and sacred dance. The air carries the scent of butter lamps and juniper smoke, and the rooftop views stretch across ochre rooftops toward the Himalayas. Staying here feels less like visiting a hotel and more like becoming a quiet part of Lo-Manthang’s centuries-old rhythm.

Inclusions

All airport pick up and drop off as per the itinerary

Accommodation on twin sharing

All meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Fluent English speaking guide

All necessary entrance fees

All transportation by private vehicle

Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu flight fare & taxes

All meals during your stay mustang trip

Upper Mustang Special Permit

Annapurna conservation area permit

Guide including his flight fare, accommodation, meals, salary & allowances

All necessary entrance fees

All government taxes and VAT

Extra: Any types of drinks, alcoholic beverages, additional activities, tipping and donations

Exclusions

Drinks of choice on the Itinerary

Travel Insurance

International flight ticket

Visa

Extra activities/services available at lodges

Items of a personal nature, such as laundry, phone calls, Wi-Fi & snacks

Deviation from the safari itinerary provided

Mustang Travel Fact Sheet

    •  Administrative Center: Jomsom (Lower Mustang); Lo Manthang (Upper Mustang)
    •  Official Language: Nepali (Thakali and Tibetan dialects widely spoken)
    •  Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
    • Time Zone: UTC +5:45
    •  Nepal entry visa required for most nationalities (available on arrival in Kathmandu or online e‑visa).
    • Trekking permits are mandatory: – Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP) via a licensed trekking agency, with a registered guide. – Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for both Lower and Upper Mustang.
    •  Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond entry.
    •  Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies (for rural/animal exposure), and routine immunizations (MMR, Tdap, Polio).
    •  Altitude considerations: itineraries often exceed 3,500 m (11,500 ft); ascend gradually and consider acetazolamide per doctor’s advice.
    • Carry comprehensive travel insurance that covers helicopter evacuation.
    • Drink bottled/boiled water; avoid uncooked foods in remote areas.  
  • Season Months Avg. Temp (°C/°F) Notes
    Winter Dec – Feb -10°C to 5°C (14°F to 41°F) Very cold; snow possible; many lodges close
    Spring Mar – May 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F) Clear views; cold nights; increasing winds
    Summer/Monsoon Jun – Aug 5°C to 18°C (41°F to 64°F) Mustang is in the rain shadow—drier than much of Nepal; strong afternoon winds
    Autumn Sep – Nov 0°C to 14°C (32°F to 57°F) Stable weather, crisp skies; chilly evenings
    •  Layered clothing (base layer, fleece, insulated jacket) for wide temperature swings.
    • Windproof/waterproof shell; scarf or buff for frequent dust/wind.
    •  Warm hat, gloves, thermal socks; sun hat and UV sunglasses.
    • Trekking boots with ankle support; camp shoes.
    • Sunscreen and lip balm (high UV at altitude).
    •  Reusable water bottle + purification method; personal first aid and any prescriptions.
    •  Power adapter (Type C, D, M plugs; 230V) and power bank (electricity can be intermittent).
    • International access via Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu).
    • Domestic flights: Kathmandu ↔ Pokhara; Pokhara ↔ Jomsom (weather‑dependent, morning flights most reliable).
    •  Helicopter charters are possible to Lo Manthang/Jomsom during certain seasons.
    • Voltage: 230V, Frequency: 50Hz
    • Plug Types: C, D, and M
    • Supply may be intermittent; carry a power bank.  
    •  Restaurants/Tea Houses: 5–10% if not included.
    •  Trekking Guide: US$10–20 per person/day (more for remote Upper Mustang expeditions).
    •  Porters: US$5–10 per person/day.
    •  Drivers (airport/hotel transfers): US$5–10 per vehicle.
    • Lodges: Small tips for housekeeping/attendants are appreciated.
    •  Local Thakali cuisine is a highlight: Thakali set (rice/lentils/vegetables/pickle), buckwheat pancakes (kaguno), and dhindo.
    • Tibetan‑influenced dishes: momo (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), yak products (butter, cheese), and butter tea.
    •  Vegetarian options common in tea houses; menus narrow with altitude/season.  
    •  Predominantly Tibetan Buddhist; be respectful in monasteries and around chortens and mani walls—keep them to your right when passing.
    • Request permission before photographing people, sky caves, or religious ceremonies.
    • Dress modestly and avoid smoking or loud behavior near sacred sites.
    • Must follow local permit rules; independent trekking in Upper Mustang is not permitted.
    • Permits are checked frequently—carry originals and copies.
    •  Cash is essential beyond Jomsom; ATMs are scarce.
    •  Connectivity is limited; inform family of potential communication gaps.
    • Weather can ground flights—plan buffers in/out of Pokhara/Kathmandu.
    •  Altitude and wind exposure are significant—schedule acclimatization days.