Women Only Trek to Upper Mustang
Join our Women-Only Upper Mustang Trek—literally traveling to Nepal’s last forbidden kingdom designed for women who want to explore culture, community, and connect to sisterhood on an empowering journey. Appearing as a hidden world behind the high Himalayas, Upper Mustang is a mystical, off the beaten path, forbidden, rich in Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, and captivating desert landscapes. Remote villages, windswept valleys, and ancient Lo Manthang, the walled city, all mighty feature in this 15-day trek. The walk traces historic trade routes like those used by salt caravans and rests of noteworthy panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri ranges and more. You will trek from Kathmandu to Pokhara, flying into Jomsom then Kagbeni, Chele, Ghami, Charang, Muktinath and other stops along the way. This trek is tailored and guided by women for women enabling comfort, support, and space to explore one of the most preserved culturally rich areas of Nepal.
Experience the true beauty, strength, and stories of Mustang with fellow female travelers.
Mustang: The Land of Stories & Festivals
For anyone looking for an inspiring trek in the Himalayas and prefers a fully safe and entire supportive environment suited for women, this trek is made for you! Women guides from local areas will take you on this exceptional journey to the distant lands of Mustang and ancient Tibetan culture that is nothing short of Mustang’s stunning landscapes.
🏮 May 17 Departure – Lo-Manthang hosts the Tiji Festival (24–26 May) which is a must-see. Set in the heart of Upper Mustang, this three day festival of rituals, performs powerful Tibetan mask dances, and exudes spiritual energy that is a key driver of Upper Mustang culture.
🐎 August 20 Departure – The Yartung festival in Lo-Manthang is well-known for thrilling horse races, local music, powerful commemoration, and you’re invited to join for an unforgettable experience.
These cultural events dig deep into the vibrant life of the Mustang people and make trekking an astonishing experience not just for the landscapes, but for the vibrant traditions and culture that bounds it all together.
💫 This women-led trek is designed to assure comfort, confidence, and connection for travelers, whether they are friends or solo.
As you land in Tribhuvan International Airport, a Himalayan Dream Team representative will receive you with Nepali hospitality. You will be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu where you can relax post your flight.
You are invited to a welcome dinner in the evening hosted by our team. This is an excellent opportunity to become acquainted with the other women trekkers, your female guide, and gain insights into your pending adventure.
After first delicious breakfast at our hotel we head to a guided tour at Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites which incorporate spirituality, architecture, and customs.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): One of the most recognizable stupas of the Kathmandu Valley regarded as Swayambhunath is also among the oldest. It is famous for its panoramic views of the valley. The temple is a very calm site for both Buddhists and Hindus hosts incredible insight into different cultures.
Pashupatinath Temple: The most important Hindu temple in Nepal. Here, you can observe traditional cremation practices beside the Bagmati River that captures the essence of local spirituality and customs.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: A classic royal courtyard, home to stunning Newari artistry. You will have a chance to walk around, snap pictures of holy Sadhus, and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the old city.
Local Vegetable and Spice Markets: To culminate the day, we head towards the lively local bazaars- colorful, spicy, and packed with life. It is a photographer’s paradise and a great place to experience daily life in Kathmandu.
In the evening, you will receive a briefing for the trek and have the opportunity to organize your gear before heading out.
As always, we start with a fresh breakfast at our hotel. Following this, we eased into the comfortable tourist bus bound for Pokhara, with the trip expected to take around 6to7 hours. During the 200 km trip, you will experience the rural and undiscovered regions of Nepal, with terraced farms, incredible villages, rivers that are shaped like snakes, hills, and the Himalaya mountain range off in the distance.
We'll be greeted with the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara after Machhapuchhare, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu peek out to greet us.
In the afternoon, you can take a calm trip to Fewa Lake, where you can see the breathtaking Annapurna range in the background. Take a peaceful walk along the lakeside promenade, enjoy a warm cup of tea, or a calming boat ride.
The evening is on you now. Try out one of the cozy restaurants, visit the many vibrant and colorful shops, or get some well-deserved rest for the next chapter in your journey.
After a good night’s rest, we will partake in a short flight taking us from Pokhara to Jomsom. This flight is particularly beautiful as it takes you over the famed Kali Gandaki Gorge and Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and the Annapurna range.
Once we land in Jomsom, the city which acts like a gate for Mustang, we do have a meeting with the trekking crew first before heading over to the first hike towards Kagbeni. Kagbeni is a Tibetan influenced village which is famous for having windowless alleyways and mud-brick houses that are quite a sight to behold. For now, we may take the gentler trails that allow for the most enjoyment of the Mustang landscape.
In the late afternoon, we may head out to Kagbeni Village which is even more famous than the town. In this village, you will find walled alleys, red gompa and some of the most amazing clay statues that serve as guards to the homes. This village acts as a wonderful prequel to your journey towards the former Kingdom of Lo.
After a permit check that won’t take long, we are free to trek along the south banks of the Kali Gandaki River. From here, the path opens up vastly to sandy region alongside numerous cliffs of colors and ancient villages.
First, we travel to Tangbe, a charming settlement having narrow white-washed houses along with barley, buckwheat and apple orchards. From there, we proceed to Chhusang, where we cross the river and climb towards the stunning red rocks that form a natural tunnel.
Moving over gradual small ridges, we arrive at Chele, a serene village perched at the top of the gorge which also serves as a gateway to the more concealed regions of Upper Mustang.
After breakfast, we begin our trek with a gentle climb through canyons and dry hills. We stop for lunch at the peaceful Samar village, which is surrounded by poplar trees, where we enjoy our lunch before riding on another picturesque trail.
After lunch, we continue towards Ranchung Cave Monastery, a sacred place where Guru Rinpoche is believed to have meditated in the 8th century. The cave is known for its natural chhorten-like formations and the Himalayan griffons nesting nearby.
We pass across a couple of small elevation gathers and meadows which eventually lead us downwards to the stunning Ghiling village famous for their age-old monasteries and enormous chhortens.
A western start allows us to trek through Ghiling’s sprawling fields before arriving at Nyi La Pass, this begins the entrance to Lo region steeping us further into Mustang’s heart.
Lunch is served after the steep descents to Ghami with a marvelous view of the area’s immense Mani Wall, claimed to be the most prominent in Mustang. Post lunch while trekking there, one can observe the mystifying view of brilliantly brightly plastered cliffs resembling a mandala to the naked eye.
Drakmar stunning red cliff village is where we conclude our trek for the night.
8th Day - Women Only Trek to Upper Mustang
We leave Ghami after breakfast and follow a steep, rocky trail that offers scenic views of alpine meadows and wide plateaus. The trail further descends past a ridge and goes down to Ghar Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in Mustang, also called Lo Gyaker—“Pure Virtue of Lo.” This Nyingma temple is known for its tranquility, making it an ideal spot for contemplation.
After crossing a wooden bridge, we climb steeply up a grassy valley to Marang-La Pass, which is the highest point of our trek today. We begin to descend gradually from the pass.
We get a glimpse of Lo-Manthang from an overlook which offers a spectacular view of the ancient walled city. Following the trails made by the herders, we reach the the historical capital of Upper Mustang rich in culture and tradition.
This day is special for exploring the ancient town with walls called Lo-Manthang, Bustling Throughout The High Streets Of Upper Mustang. It now lies next to the tibet border. It had once functioned as an important trade center between Nepal and Tibet. It still holds some deep value with Tibetan roots,,,, why yes mules are still used to trex goods across the border
Surrounded by a 6m wall with towers set at each corner, It gives off fortress like charm that could peak the interest of many. We explore Remarkable birthplaces such as the King’s Palace, Thubchen Monastery, Jampa Monastery, and the primary school as well as the local museum. Workshops for the Traditional Thangka painting are around the corner and so are the people of the unique Bonpo Buddhist culture that has been cherished and sustained for years.
This remains off the beaten path of many as it limits the number of people allowed to visit alongside its rich heritage set to be discovered, making it a rare sight. The spirit of the people, culture, history and dreams is magical.
Lo-Manthang opened its doors to others in the 90's and has preserved its roots. After this journey we make our way back to the guesthouse for a peaceful night.
The trek begins after breakfast as we pass the walled city of Lo-Manthang. We step over a stream and gently make our way upwards to Lo-La Pass. The view from the pass is mesmerizing as we get one last glimpse of the ancient capital Tsarang before its decsent over the wide-open land and myriad of caves.
The chorten shaped like Lo-Manthang marks its end and Tsarang begins. We cross a river on an iron bridge and start our ascent towards the village. After lunch, we visit the stunning five-storey white palace followed by the Tsarang monastery, which is captivating at first sight as it hangs audaciously above the kali Gandaki gorge.
Today's route begins with the gradually rising ridges alongside gullys full of rocks. Before we break for lunch, we pass the awe induring Mani Wall, one of the longest walls in Nepal that is constantly being renovated Ghami.
After lunch, we head all the way up to the Nyi-La Pass, then descend through Tamoag; use chhorten and stream hopping to navigate the familiar path leading to Ghiling. A final short and steep walk gets us to Syangmochen where we rest for the night.
The final day of trekking begins with breakfast. We then head out for a relaxed stroll in the lowlands which converts into an uphill climb to the Yamdo-La Pass. On the way there, we pass the little towns of Bhena and Yamdo, and later, we descend to Samar for lunch.
Our lunch is followed by a short drive that takes us up to Muktinath. It is one of the popular pilgrimage destinations in the world for both Hindus and Buddhists. There we move around the temple complexes and also check the eternal flame and the 108 water spouts. It’s one of those places that lets you reflect on a lot while in the beautiful mountains.
Then, we continue traveling down through Tsaile. After this, we follow the Kali Gandaki River and cross it through an iron bridge to reach Chhusang. The drive from here to Jomsom is scenic, and we will spend the night there.
Just after breakfast make your way to Jomsom airport to take your 30 minutes scenic flight back to pokhara city. The flight is filled with astonishing sights of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range which are majestic wildernesses.” it is the best view from the sky makes for a stunning goodbye from the mountans.
Upon reaching your destination, a smooth transfer is provided to a hotel located on the shores of the lake. The remaining portion of the day can be spent in leisure, whether that be walking around Fewa Lake, daydreaming, or appreciating the mesmerizing journey one takes through Upper Mustang.
You have the option of taking a 25-minute flight or a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, which will take 6-7 hours. While the flight is faster, the drive along the Trishuli River allows for more relaxing enjoyment of Nepal's countryside, terraced fields, and hillside villages.
In Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel and can enjoy the tranquil Thamel or Durbar Marg area for leisurely evening strolls while taking in the sights. Take this chance to get some last-minute souvenirs or gifts before departing.
In Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel, ensuring that your evening is relaxing.
We will drive you to Tribhuvan International Airport after breakfast or lunch, depending on your flight schedule. For those, with late departures, feel free to leave your bags at the hotel and take one final walk in the picturesque Kathmandu streets. This is an ideal opportunity to do last-minute shopping, pick a few souvenirs, or just enjoy the charm of this breathtaking city.
As we come to the end of this journey, we truly hope you are not just taking beautiful memories but new friends, renewed passion, and a part of Mustang in your soul.
It's our gratitude to say thank you for traveling with Himalayan Dream Team.
You are our honored guests who have enjoyed this adventure with us. We truly hope to have you back one day.
Until then have a safe trip and see you again soon.
Namaste 🙏
SN | Start Date | Trip Duration | Cost Per Person | Availability | Join Group |
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1 | 2025-05-17 | 15 Days | Available | Book Now |
SN | Start Date | Trip Duration | Cost Per Person | Availability | Join Group |
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1 | 2025-08-20 | 15 Days | Available | Book Now |
SN | Start Date | Trip Duration | Cost Per Person | Availability | Join Group |
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1 | 2025-09-03 | 15 Days | Available | Book Now |
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