Short Upper Mustang Trek to Lo Manthang

After taking our morning flight into Jomsom at 2,700 m, we strap on our boots and begin walking north along the breezy Kali Gandaki riverbed. The trail takes us through gravel flats before reaching Kagbeni at 2,858 m, the medieval gateway village where we check in at our teahouse.

We leave Kagbeni and follow the eastern bank of the river, passing small settlements and towering cliffs before climbing gradually to reach Chele at 3,050 m for our second night on the trail.

Today's trek demands steady stamina as we ascend through high passes and descend into rugged gorges, crossing ridges that offer sweeping views before arriving in Syangboche at 3,475 m.

Our route continues across rolling arid hills and traditional Tibetan-influenced pathways. We make our way toward Ghyami at 3,520 m, noting the long mani walls and distinct local architecture along the way.

We set out across the plateau toward Charang at 3,500 m, passing ancient chortens and exploring the massive dzong and red gompa that dominate the village skyline.

We approach our primary destination today, trekking across windy plains before catching our first clear sight of the walled capital of Lo Manthang at 3,700 m.

Leaving the capital behind, we traverse high trails to reach our highest elevation point at Drakmar, standing at 3,810 m amidst dramatic red rock formations.

We retrace our steps southward through exposed terrain, descending through barren hillsides to arrive at the settlement of Ghiling at 3,806 m.

Our descent continues through rocky paths and wind-carved canyons, bringing us back down to the valley floor at Chhuksang at 3,050 m.

On our final day of walking, we complete the return loop along the Kali Gandaki corridor, arriving back in Jomsom at 2,700 m to celebrate the conclusion of our trek.

We board our early morning flight from Jomsom back to Pokhara, enjoying a final aerial perspective of the deep river valley before transferring to our hotel.