Upper Mustang Jeep Tour, from Kathmandu, Bandipur, and Pokhara to a mystical land in an isolated part of Nepal. Upper Mustang, the gem of Nepal hidden away in the Himalayas was once a forbidden kingdom shrouded in secrecy. However, it's now accessible to tourists seeking a unique blend of cultural immersion, breathtaking scenery, and a step back in time yet a restricted area permit is mandatory to enter the region. Buckle up, because Trek Mania Nepal is introducing a thrilling Upper Mustang Jeep Tour adventure!
Our Upper Mustang Jeep Tour facilitates the travel enthusiast willing to explore the stunning Upper Mustang on a 4WD Jeep. This is perfect for those who have a keen want to explore the region but are short of time, as well as for those travelers who wish to skip the long hours of walking either due to health concerns or fitness issues.
Your Upper Mustang Jeep Tour begins from Pokhara, the gateway to Upper Mustang on a 4WD Jeep riding and all the other treks in the Annapurna region. From here, our Jeep ride through the rugged terrain carves a path toward Lo Manthang, the crown jewel of the region. We will enjoy the scenic Jeep ride towards a majestic walled city rising from the desert-like landscape.
Its narrow alleys lined with traditional Tibetan houses adorned with prayer flags fluttering in the wind make our Jeep ride to Upper Mustang even more enthralling. Time seems to stand still here, transporting you back centuries where the ancestors had similar experiences but with the Horses. We also have our Upper Mustang Horse Riding Trek for those interested in horseback riding to Upper Mustang.
Upper Mustang is a treasure trove of magnificent Buddhist monasteries, each with a unique story to tell. Explore the dramatic Thubuche Gompa perched precariously on a cliff, offering jaw-dropping panoramic views during the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour.
We can step inside the serene Chodrag Monastery, decorated with paintings and prayer wheels whispering mantras. Another landmark we should not miss during the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is the mysterious Mustang Caves. There is a belief that the caves are the ancient meditation retreats, offering a glimpse into the region's fascinating spiritual history.
Nevertheless, the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour isn't just about exploring the historical sites of the region on a 4WD Jeep. It's also about the people – the heart and soul of this region. The Mustangi people with their warm smiles, cultural attire, and their unique lifestyle and culture, have a way of life deeply influenced by Tibetan traditions. During our Upper Mustang Jeep Tour, we can witness their lifestyle, and traditional farming methods, and maybe even catch a glimpse of vibrant festivals like the Tiji Festival and Yartung Mela that paint the town with joyous music, food, and colors. However, to experience the festival, we should match our trip schedule accordingly.
The Upper Mustang's cuisine is a delicious fusion of Nepali and Tibetan flavors. Being highly influenced by the Tibetan lifestyle and culture, the food and cuisine in Mustang have a touch of Tibetan delicacy. Warm yourself up with hearty noodle soups or savor juicy dumplings. For a comforting post-adventure meal, try Thukpa, a steaming noodle dish bursting with flavor. Don't miss Marpha, a village famous for its delicious apples, apple pies, and the local specialty – apple cider and brandy. The famous apple brandy, "Marpha" is a perfect treat for a cozy evening after your adventures.
Our Upper Mustang Jeep Tours include a visit to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Perched at a high altitude, this holy site boasts a unique Jwala Mai temple with an eternal flame, and the Muktinath temple, adorned with intricate statues and significant religious importance. There is a belief that if we take a shower in the 108 taps of Muktinath, our sins and bad karma will be forsaken.
Best Seasons: Trek Mania Nepal would highly recommend Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) for the trip as these months offer the best weather for your Upper Mustang 4WD Jeep Tour. Clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and accessible roads make exploring a breeze during that time.
The Mandatory Restricted Area Permit: Upper Mustang still requires a special permit for entry. This requires having minimum of 2 persons in the group and costs USD 500 per person for the permit.
Packing for Upper Mustang Jeep Tour: Be prepared for varying temperatures. Pack warm clothes, comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a good camera to capture the magic!
Why Trek Mania Nepal for Jeep Tour to Upper Mustang?: A reputable tour operator with experienced drivers and knowledgeable guides is key to experience the best of Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. Look no further than Trek Mania Nepal as we have a proven track record, positive reviews, and a commitment to responsible tourism.
While a Jeep Tour to Upper Mustang offers a comfortable way to explore, some travelers might crave a more immersive experience. Trekking allows you to connect deeply with the environment and the local people. Hence, we can further customize this program with side trips and short hikes in Upper Mustang along with the Jeep ride.
The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour isn't just a sightseeing trip; it's a cultural immersion, a historical exploration, and a journey into a timeless realm. Are you ready to unlock the secrets of this hidden kingdom? Pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable 4WD Jeep adventure in Upper Mustang with TMN.
Day01: Drive from Kathmandu to Bandipur (5h)
Day02: Drive from Bandipur to Sarankot/Naudada. (4Himalayan Deurali)
Day03: Drive from Sarankot/Naudada to Jomsom (5h)
Day04: Drive from Jomsom to Chaile (5h)
Day05: Drive from Chaile to Lo Manthang (3h)
Day06: Drive Lo Manthang sightseeing (By jeep holday)
Day07: Drive from Lomanthang to Muktinath (4h)
Day08: Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani (4h)
Day09: Drive from Tatopani to Pokhara (3h sightseeing pokhara)
Day10: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (6h)
We commence our Upper Mustang Jeep Tour from Kathmandu, Nepal's vibrant capital city. After a delightful breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive westward, traversing through verdant valleys and charming villages. With a scenic drive on our 4WD Jeep we reach our destination for today i.e. Bandipur, a captivating town nestled amidst the Mahabharat Range. At Bandipur, we immerse ourselves in the town's rich Newari heritage, evident in its traditional architecture and cobbled pathways.
Today we leave behind Bandipur and ascend towards Sarangkot or Naudanda sighting the panoramic vistas. These hilltop destinations are renowned for offering unparalleled vistas of the majestic Annapurna and Manaslu ranges. And for our overnight stay, we continue our Jeep ride towards Himalayan Deurali, a tranquil haven amidst the mountains.
Today's Jeep ride takes us through the bank of dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. En route, we can witness the towering cliffs and the torrential Kali Gandaki River carving its path through the landscape. Our destination for the night is Jomsom, a bustling town nestled amidst the Himalayas. Explore the local markets, savor delectable local cuisine, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this high-altitude haven.
On our Day 4 of Upper Mustang Jeep Tour, we embark on a thrilling journey towards Chaile from Jomsom. As we traverse through arid landscapes and high passes, keep your eyes peeled for the majestic Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri peaks. Chaile is a charming village nestled amidst dramatic scenery.
Today's adventure takes us to the heart of Upper Mustang - the walled city of Lo Manthang. It is our major destination of our Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. Nestled amidst a unique high-altitude desert, Lo Manthang was once a forbidden kingdom steeped in mystery and tradition. Upon arrival, be captivated by the ancient city walls, the magnificent Royal Palace, and the vibrant Thubchen Gompa monastery. Immerse yourself in the rich Tibetan culture and explore the labyrinthine alleyways, soaking in the timeless charm of this bygone era.
We dedicate this day to fully exploring the captivating Lo Manthang. Embark on short jeep excursions to nearby villages like Chhoser, where you can witness the traditional way of life of the Mustang people. Visit the fascinating Namgyal Monastery, perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. In the afternoon, delve deeper into Lo Manthang's rich heritage by visiting its numerous gompas, each adorned with intricate Buddhist artwork.
Our journey continues as we retrace our steps towards Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Nestled at an altitude of 3,800 meters, Muktinath is home to the renowned Muktinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Witness the captivating Jwala Mai eternal flame and the 108 holy water spouts, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Today's drive offers a scenic descent through the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge. Enjoy the contrasting landscapes as we transition from the arid high-altitude terrain to lush valleys. En route, we can stop at Tatopani, a natural hot spring where you can soothe your muscles after days of exploration. Finally, we reach Tatopani, a village known for its rejuvenating natural hot springs - a perfect way to unwind before continuing our journey.
As we bid farewell to Tatopani, we embark on a scenic drive towards Pokhara, the adventure capital of Nepal. Upon arrival, take some time to explore the vibrant lakeside town of Pokhara. You can opt for a boat ride on the serene Phewa Lake, marvel at the majestic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peak, or visit the International Mountain Museum for a deeper understanding of the Himalayan region.
Our incredible Upper Mustang Jeep Tour comes to an end with a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. As we traverse through verdant valleys and charming villages, reminisce about the unforgettable experiences encountered in the mystical realm of Upper Mustang.