Upper Mustang Heli Trek
- 13 days
- moderate
- Up to 12
- Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)
We guide you across the arid Tibetan plateau of Upper Mustang to Lo Manthang, returning to Pokhara via a mountain helicopter.
At a glance
Trip overview
We lead this 13-day expedition into the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, traversing the arid landscapes of Upper Mustang. Once a restricted kingdom, this northern frontier retains its distinct Tibetan cultural identity, ancient monasteries, and eroded sandstone canyons. The route takes us deep into a high-altitude desert where wind-carved cliffs and whitewashed villages contrast sharply with the snow-capped peaks rising along the Tibetan border.
This journey is designed for experienced walkers who are comfortable with consecutive days of trekking on rugged terrain at altitudes exceeding 3000 m. We navigate high passes like Nyi La and Lo La, where thin air and exposed trails demand steady pacing and proper acclimatisation. Teahouse accommodation along the way is basic, offering a genuine look at rural Mustang life.
Our itinerary balances days of physical exertion with cultural immersion in settlements such as Kagbeni, Geling, and Tsarang. After exploring the walled capital of Lo Manthang, we forego the return foot journey, boarding a helicopter for an aerial transfer back to Pokhara. This flight provides a final, expansive perspective of the gorges and peaks we spent over a week traversing on foot.
Why this trek
Trip highlights
Lo Manthang Exploration
We spend time exploring the ancient walled capital, visiting historical monasteries including Jhampa and Thupchen.
High Altitude Passes
We cross several high windy passes, including Nyi La at 4010 m and Lo La, offering sweeping views of the northern peaks.
Helicopter Return
We board a charter helicopter in Lo Manthang for a direct flight back to Pokhara, viewing the Kali Gandaki gorge from above.
Rain Shadow Ecosystem
We hike through the distinct dry, barren terrain of the Annapurna Conservation Area, sheltered from monsoon rains.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Kathmandu
Meals: B
Day 1
Arrive in Kathmandu
Meals: B
Our team welcomes you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfers you to your hotel. You have the rest of the day to rest or prepare your gear in the capital.
Day 2
Fly to Pokhara
Meals: B / L / D
Day 2
Fly to Pokhara
Meals: B / L / D
We take a morning flight lasting 30 minutes to Pokhara, catching initial views of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range. We spend the afternoon resting by Phewa Lake and strolling the lakeside streets.
Day 3
Fly to Jomsom and Trek to Kagbeni
Meals: B / L / D
Day 3
Fly to Jomsom and Trek to Kagbeni
Meals: B / L / D
An early flight brings us to Jomsom at 2713 m, where we begin our trek alongside the Kali Gandaki Valley. We walk on an open trail through Eklebhatti before reaching the walled village of Kagbeni at 2810 m.
Day 4
Kagbeni to Chhuksang
Meals: B / L / D
Day 4
Kagbeni to Chhuksang
Meals: B / L / D
We follow the eastern bank of the Kali Gandaki River, passing mule caravans and ancient caves near Tangbe Village. After about 4 to 5 hours of walking, we reach Chhuksang at 2900 m.
Day 5
Chhuksang to Samar
Meals: B / L / D
Day 5
Chhuksang to Samar
Meals: B / L / D
We cross a suspension bridge and ascend steeply toward Chele Village, with views of Nilgiri and Tilicho. Continuing past a canyon, we climb to Darori La Pass at 3735 m before descending into Samar at 3150 m.
Day 6
Samar to Geling
Meals: B / L / D
Day 6
Samar to Geling
Meals: B / L / D
Today's 5 to 6 hour walk takes us over Bhena La Pass at 3838 m and Yamda La Pass at 3860 m, providing our first panoramic vistas of Upper Mustang. We descend past mani walls to the barley fields of Geling at 3510 m.
Day 7
Geling to Ghami
Meals: B / L / D
Day 7
Geling to Ghami
Meals: B / L / D
We ascend past Tama Gaon and climb steadily toward Nyi La Pass at 4010 m. After crossing the pass, we descend to the large settlement of Ghami at 3490 m, sheltered by eroded sandstone cliffs.
Day 8
Ghami to Tsarang
Meals: B / L / D
Day 8
Ghami to Tsarang
Meals: B / L / D
We cross the Ghami Khola via suspension bridge and follow a trail lined with extensive mani walls. Climbing over Tsarang La Pass at 3870 m, we arrive at Tsarang at 3620 m near the Charang Chu canyon.
Day 9
Tsarang to Lo Manthang
Meals: B / L / D
Day 9
Tsarang to Lo Manthang
Meals: B / L / D
After visiting Tsarang's red gompa and fortress, we descend to cross the Tsarang Khola. We then climb to Lo La pass at 3950 m, which overlooks the walled city of Lo Manthang at 3730 m where we stay for the night.
Day 10
Explore Lo Manthang
Meals: B / L / D
Day 10
Explore Lo Manthang
Meals: B / L / D
We spend a full day exploring the historical capital. Our walks take us through narrow alleys to visit the prominent monasteries of Jhampa, Thupchen, and Chhoeda.
Day 11
Helicopter Flight to Pokhara
Meals: B / L / D
Day 11
Helicopter Flight to Pokhara
Meals: B / L / D
We board a helicopter in Lo Manthang for an aerial transit back to Pokhara, enjoying views of the Mustang terrain and surrounding peaks from the air. We check into our Pokhara hotel for the evening.
Day 12
Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Meals: B / L / D
Day 12
Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Meals: B / L / D
We take a domestic flight back to Kathmandu from Pokhara. The rest of the day is free for personal rest or final packing.
Day 13
Departure from Kathmandu
Meals: B
Day 13
Departure from Kathmandu
Meals: B
Our representative drives you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure flight.
Inclusions
What’s included
Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off on arrival and departure
- Domestic flights between Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Jomsom
- Charter helicopter flight from Lo Manthang to Pokhara
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and local fees
- Twin-share teahouse accommodation during the trek
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) on the trek
- Experienced lead trekking guide and porter support
Not included
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fee obtained upon arrival
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude emergency evacuation
- Personal expenses such as hot showers, battery charging, and bottled drinks
- Tips for guide and porter crew
Before you go
Good to know
Altitude & acclimatisation
Much of this trek takes place above 3000 m, with our highest walking point reaching over 4000 m at Nyi La pass. We maintain a slow, steady ascent profile and monitor all team members for signs of acute mountain sickness.
Terrain & physical demand
The route involves walking on dry, rocky, and exposed trails with loose gravel and steep climbs. A strong base of cardiovascular fitness and previous multi-day hiking experience are necessary.
Teahouse accommodation
Lodges along the Upper Mustang route are simple, offering twin-share rooms with basic wooden beds and communal dining areas. Facilities become more rustic as we gain elevation.
Weather conditions
Upper Mustang sits in a rain shadow, making it drier than other Himalayan regions, but afternoon winds can be strong across the plateau. Layered windproof clothing is essential for daily walking.
Route
Route overview
Altitude
Altitude profile
Pack list
What to pack
Sturdy waterproof trekking bootsEssential
Footwear
Must be broken in prior to the trip to prevent blisters on rocky trails.
Down jacketEssential
Clothing
Rated for sub-zero temperatures at high altitude teahouses.
Thermal base layersEssential
Clothing
Merino wool or synthetic tops and bottoms for cold mornings and evenings.
Windproof outer shell jacketEssential
Clothing
Crucial for protection against strong winds on the Mustang plateau.
Trekking polesEssential
Camping
Helpful for stability on steep, gravel-strewn descents.
Sleeping bag rated to -15°CEssential
Camping
Teahouse blankets are insufficient for freezing night temperatures.
UV protection sunglassesEssential
Safety
Essential for high-altitude glare and dusty plateau winds.
Water purification tabletsEssential
Safety
Required for treating drinking water along the trail.
Valid passport and travel insurance documentsEssential
Documents
Must cover emergency helicopter evacuation up to 5000 m.
Paperwork
Permits & paperwork
We arrange
Handled in Kathmandu — nothing for you to do.Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
PermitRequired for entering the Annapurna Conservation Area protected zone.
Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit
PermitMandatory restricted area entry permit for travellers visiting Upper Mustang.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
What makes the Upper Mustang Heli Trek different from a standard return trek?
Instead of walking back down the same trail from Lo Manthang, we board a helicopter for a direct scenic flight to Pokhara, saving several days of retraced steps.
Do I need previous high-altitude experience?
Prior trekking experience is recommended because the route crosses multiple high passes above 3800 m and involves long walking days over rugged terrain.
What permits are required for Upper Mustang?
Trekkers need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a special Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit, which our agency arranges.
How cold does it get at night on the trek?
Temperatures at higher elevations often drop below freezing at night, particularly during autumn and spring evenings, requiring a warm down jacket and sleeping bag.
What kind of food is available in the teahouses?
Teahouses serve a mix of dal bhat, noodle soups, fried rice, momos, and basic western items like porridge or eggs for breakfast.
Is drinking water safe along the route?
Tap and stream water is unsafe without treatment. We carry water purification tablets or drops, and you can purchase boiled water at teahouses.
Still have a question? Message us and our trip planner will reply within a working day.
Book your trip
Pick any start date on the calendar. We block the trip out over 13 days and confirm the plan with you before payment.
Start dateTrip runs
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