Journey to the Roof of the World: Pokhara to Upper Mustang by Jeep

Introduction 

Nestled in the Annapurna region of Nepal, Pokhara is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty and adventurous activities. One such activity that is a must-do for any traveler visiting Pokhara is the Pokhara to Upper Mustang Jeep Tour.

Upper Mustang, often known as the "Restricted Kingdom," is a lonely and isolated region in the Himalayas. It is an another mix of Tibetan culture and centuries-old customs. The region is noted for its stunning landscapes, old monasteries, and distinct culture that distinguishes it from the rest of Nepal.

A once-in-a-lifetime trip through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world is a jeep tour from Pokhara to Upper Mustang. Get picked up from your hotel in Pokhara and drive to the tour starting point. Then, embark on a jeep tour of the stunning Annapurna region, passing through picturesque towns and lush forests. 

The further into the Mustang region, the rougher the environment and the more beautiful the scenery. Cross the Kaligandaki River and the famous Jomsom known for its apple orchards and beautiful temples. 

As you enter the Upper Mustang region, you'll be greeted by locals known for their warm hospitality and friendly demeanor. Explore ancient monasteries such as the Lo Gekar Monastery and have the chance to witness the traditional way of life of the people of this remote area. 

A highlight of the tour is a visit to the ancient city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the Upper Mustang region. Home to several ancient palaces, temples and monasteries, the city is known for its unique culture and architecture. 

The Pokhara to Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is not just an adventure but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and history of one of the most remote and beautiful regions in the world. The tour is well-organized and offers comfortable accommodation and delicious local cuisine throughout the journey.

If you're looking for the adventure of a lifetime, a jeep tour from Pokhara to Upper Mustang is perfect. This unique experience takes you through some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes and gives you insight into the ancient cultures and traditions of the Mustang region. 

In conclusion, The Pokhara to Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is an ultimate adventure that can be taken by anyone looking to explore the beauty of nature, culture, and tradition of Mustang region in Nepal. It's a perfect blend of excitement and tranquility, which will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Highlights of Pokhara to Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

1. Scenic drives through the Annapurna region: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Nepalese Himalayas as you drive from Pokhara to Upper Mustang.
2. Picturesque villages and local culture: Discover the traditional villages and rich culture of the local people as you journey through the region.
3. Visit to Lo Manthang: Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, home to traditional Tibetan-style architecture, monasteries, and unique cultural heritage.
4. Stunning mountain views: Soak in the beauty of the high mountain peaks and glaciers of the Nepalese Himalayas.
5. Flexible itineraries: Our tour offers flexible itineraries, allowing you to tailor your journey to your individual needs and interests.
6. Expert guides: Our knowledgeable and experienced guides will accompany you on your journey, ensuring a safe and memorable experience.
7. Comfortable jeep travel: Enjoy comfortable and convenient travel in specially designed jeeps, perfect for navigating the challenging mountain roads.

How To get Pokhara from Kathmandu?

The Pokhara to Upper Mustang Jeep Tour begins in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, where travelers can catch direct flights from various countries to Tribhuvan International Airport. From there, the next step is to head to Pokhara, a natural wonderland known as the "city of lakes" and the gateway to many treks and tours in the Annapurna region.

There are two main ways to reach Pokhara from Kathmandu: by air or by road. Taking a flight is the quickest and easiest option, offering a bird's eye view of the mountain ranges and taking just 25-30 minutes, while traveling by road takes 6-8 hours via a private vehicle or tourist bus.

For those who prefer to travel by air, popular air carriers include Buddha Air, Simrik Air, and Yeti Airlines. Flights cost around $125 for a one-way ticket for tourists, and around $40-50 for Nepali and Indian citizens. For those traveling by road, private vehicles can be hired for around $150 for a one-way drive or around $250 for a standard seven-seater jeep. Alternatively, tourist buses are comfortable and safe, and cost around $10-12 for a one-way trip. Motorbike tour to Upper Mustang is also a good option for experienced riders who want to explore the unique rain shadow area of Nepal.

How To Reach Pokhara To Jomsom?

There are several ways to reach Jomsom from Pokhara, a popular stopover point for travelers visiting the Upper Mustang region in Nepal. Jomsom is located in the Mustang District, and is known for its apple orchards, beautiful temples, and as the starting point for treks to Mustang and other nearby regions.

By Air

The most popular way to reach Jomsom from Pokhara is by taking a domestic flight. Daily flights operate between Pokhara and Jomsom, and the flight duration is around 25 minutes. The flight offers a stunning view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The prominent air carriers are Buddha Air, Simrik Air, and Yeti Airlines. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the availability of tickets and the season of travel, but it usually costs around $150 for a one-way ticket for a tourist.

By Road (Jeep or Public Bus)

Alternatively, you can go to Jomsom by jeep or bus from Pokhara. The journey takes about 8-10 hours, depending on road conditions, passing through beautiful villages, lush forests and the Kaligandaki River. The cost of a jeep rental or bus transfer depends on the vehicle and travel time. 

By Road (Motorcycle)

Another alternative is to take a motorcycle tour from Pokhara to Jomsom; the road is tough, but the scenery is magnificent, and it's a terrific way to visit Nepal's rain shadow region.Check the road conditions and flight schedule before planning your travel, as they can vary due to weather and other circumstances.

How To Reach Jomsom To Upper Mustang (Lo Manthang)?

After arriving in Jomsom, the final destination is Upper Mustang, a restricted area that has just been opened to tourism. Upper Mustang is located in Mustang District, bordering Tibet, and is home to the ancient city of Lo Manthang, also known as the "Kingdom of Lo". There are two main ways to get to Lo Manthang: on a hike or by road. 

By Trekking to Lo Manthang

Hiking in Lo Manthang is a popular choice among hikers, as it allows you to have a deeper experience of the landscape, Tibetan Buddhist community, culture and traditions. A standard route takes about five days to travel from Jomsom to Lo Manthang, passing through Kagbeni village, Kali Gandaki river basin, Chele and Syangbochen villages, and caves and rock formations. 

By Road

Alternatively, reaching Lo Manthang by road is a popular option as the road conditions have improved in recent years. Taking a private 6-7 seater jeep is a common option, and the trip can be spread out over 2-3 days, allowing for photo opportunities and stops along the way. It's important to note that the rise in altitude should be taken into account and to avoid altitude sickness.

Standard Itinerary For Pokhara to Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

A standard itinerary for the Pokhara to Upper Mustang Jeep Tour typically includes the following:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to Pokhara

Day 2: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom and visit the apple orchards and temples in Jomsom

Day 3: Drive or trek from Jomsom to Kagbeni

Day 4: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele

Day 5: Trek from Chele to Syangbochen

Day 6: Trek from Syangbochen to Tsarang

Day 7: Trek from Tsarang to Lo Manthang

Day 8: Explore Lo Manthang and the surrounding areas

Day 9: Drive or trek back to Jomsom

Day 10: Fly back to Pokhara and transfer to Kathmandu

Day 11: Departure from Kathmandu

Note: Itinerary may vary depending on the tour operator and the length of your trip. If traveling by land, you can also add 1 or 2 days to the journey from Jomsom to Lo Manthang and vice versa. It is also possible to combine your visit with other places of interest in the area.

4 Best Ways To Reach Upper Mustang In Nepal

4 best ways to reach Upper Mustang in Nepal are:

1. By Air: Taking a domestic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom is the quickest and most convenient method to go to Upper Mustang. To get to Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang, you can either trek or take a jeep from Jomsom.
2. By Road: Another common way to get to Upper Mustang is by car. From Pokhara, take a jeep or a bus to Jomsom, then drive or trek to Lo Manthang. This option allows you to explore the region's natural splendor at your own speed and make stops along the route.
3. By Trek:Trekking to Upper Mustang is a popular hiking choice because it provides a more immersive view of the nature, Tibetan Buddhist villages, cultures, and traditions. A typical five-day journey from Jomsom to Lo Manthang passes via the village of Kagbeni, the Kali Gandaki River basin, the villages of Chele and Syangbochen, and caves and rock formations.
4. By Motorbike: Another alternative for skilled riders is to take a motorcycle journey from Pokhara to Jomsom and then to Upper Mustang. This alternative is difficult, but it provides breathtaking views of Nepal's rain shadow region.

It's important to note that Upper Mustang is a restricted area and you will need to apply for a special permit to enter the region. The best time to visit Upper Mustang is from April to October when the weather is clear and the trails are dry.

Conclusion 

Reaching Upper Mustang in Nepal is relatively easy, with a variety of options available including flights, overland tours, treks, or a combination of all. Regardless of how you choose to reach Upper Mustang, it will be a unique and enriching experience. The natural beauty, protected culture and religion, and the mystery surrounding the region make the Upper Mustang tour a truly unforgettable experience.

For tourists, the process of obtaining all the necessary documents, itineraries, routes and travel reservations can be daunting. If you choose to fly to Nepal for this special tour, you can contact our team of experts to help you plan and arrange your holiday in Upper Mustang.