Upper Mustang Trek with Yara Distance Guide

Upper Mustang Trek with Yara takes you into the depths of what once was the mysterious forbidden kingdom of Lo. This kingdom is decorated by seven attractive village development committees. Whereas the ancient empire served as an important trading hub between Nepal and Tibet. This helped in aiding this quiet village in boasting a fusion of culture and its timeless traditions.

As you travel through the rugged terrains of Upper Mustang, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time. You’ll immerse yourself in its rich historical memories, all the while encountering remains of its past. During the Upper Mustang Trek, you’ll be amazed by the remarkable caves decorated with marvelous murals and beautiful paintings. There are sanctuaries where Buddhist monks used to find solace and enlightenment with years of meditation.

Before you are fascinated by the attraction of the Upper Mustang, let us present you with this distance guide. This journey unravels chapters of its past, revealing the beauty of a land untouched by time itself. This region covers approximately 178 kilometers or 111 miles on foot, starting with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then taking a flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. From Jomsom, the journey leads into the heart of this once-forbidden kingdom.

Elevation and Distance Summary Guide

Upper Mustang Trek with Yara Trek Distance Guide and Grance

Upper Mustang Trek with Yara: A Brief Overview

• Experiencing the forbidden kingdom: Travel into the once-restricted empire of Mustang, Lo-Manthang, and witness its ancient wonders.
• Yara’s Natural Sandy Castle: Come across the enchanting beauty of Yara, which is renowned for its natural sand castles and offers breathtaking views of surrounding mountains.
• Immerse yourself in preserved culture: Dive into the region's rich culture and traditions, preserved through centuries of isolation, and learn from the locals about their unique lifestyle.
• Explore untouched monasteries and caves: Wander through the timeless monasteries and caves that stood unchanged for centuries and offer a peak into the spiritual heritage of the region.
• Interactions with the Monks: Interact in meaningful conversation with the monks and gain insights into their spiritual practice and their sage wisdom.
• Visiting the sacred site of Muktinath: Pay your respect to the religious site of Muktinath, valued by both Hindus and Buddhists.
• Witness Pokhara’s Tranquility: Before your adventure begins, relax in the serene city of lakes, Pokhara. Stroll around the shores of Phewa Lake and soak in the majestic Annapurna range.
• Encounter Local Hospitality: Engage yourself in the warm Nepalese hospitality as you get to interact with the locals along the route, exchanging stories and building unforgettable connections.
• The timeless beauty of Upper Mustang: Roam through the beautiful villages of Chele, Geling, and Charang, each offering a unique peek into the Upper Mustang’s timeless beauty.
• Breathtaking flights: Take a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomson, offering a bird’s eye view of the majestic Himalayan peaks.

Difficulty Level of the Upper Mustang Trek with Yara

Difficulty Level

Before proceeding into these amazing landscapes, you must understand the difficulty of the trek. The Himalayas unfold a vast expansion of peaks and deep valleys. Trekkers should be not just physically fit but mentally fit as well. They should prepare their mind with persistence and determination. The Upper Mustang Trek with Yara offers a daunting challenge, as this trek takes you on 7 to 8 hours of walking a day. This route has uncompromising terrains which can be strenuous for you if not properly trained.

Acclimatization

The acclimatization day is one of the most crucial points in any high-altitude trip. For those who are unfamiliar, acclimatization is a period of rest during your high-altitude thrill, allowing your body to adjust to shifts in altitude. In the desert-like terrain of Upper Mustang, the importance of acclimatization cannot be exaggerated. Despite the seemingly steady ascent, the region sits at an elevation of 3,840 m/12,595 ft. above sea level. Ignoring the necessity of acclimatization will lead you to risks of high altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Support and Guidance

An extensive counseling session before you go on any journey is very important. It makes sure trekkers are well-equipped with knowledge and techniques to steer the adventures ahead.

Therefore, a well-planned itinerary can be the compass that leads you through the maze of rough terrains and diverse altitudes. This will increase your chances of completing this trip successfully. 

Best time to Visit Mustang

The Mustang Trek is almost conducted throughout the year. But the best time to go is spring, autumn and summer. Every season has its own unique aesthetics offering unique terrains, natural settings, and trekking experiences.

Can I trek the Upper Mustang in the summer?

Yes, you can go in the tour to Mustang during the summers as well. Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadows of the Annapurna range. So, summer treks are pleasant, well-lit, and dry. The weather is perfect and the trails are in superb condition with warm and sunny days with stunning visibility. The region's Rivers and ecosystem are at its peak during this season. Even though you may encounter some damp weather in the lower Mustang, making the trails slippery and muddy, the natural beauty is enhanced.

Daily Highlights

Now, let us dwell on the highlight of this 17 nights/18 days trip to the Upper Mustang trek with Yara.

While the journey might seem long and extensive, it’s important to understand the reason behind it all. The two days of this trip are dedicated to the drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and the scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. This calculated approach aims to avoid the bumpy and lengthy road to Jomsom.

As a result, the trekking days only become 10 to 11 days, each entailing almost 7 to 8 hours of walking per day. Although it might be different based on accommodation availability or terrain conditions. This can be flexible to adjust to the preferences and capabilities of the trekkers.

In case you wish to change or alter the itinerary, our experts are available to assist you anywhere possible. We highly recommend you consult with us before changing your itinerary to ensure a seamless and delightful trekking experience for everyone.

So, in this blog, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive insight into the daily distance you’ll cover. Also, we offer you a detailed preview of a remarkable journey that awaits you.

Drive Kathmandu to Pokhara (910 m/3,020 ft.) Duration: 7 to 8 Hrs

Your journey will start from Kathmandu, going on a scenic drive to Pokhara, which is approximately 204.8 km (127.25 miles). This drive is typically 7 to 8 hours but it depends on the condition of the highways in Nepal.

All through this drive, you’ll be welcomed by the unique diversity of Nepal’s landscape. You trace through the banks of the Trishuli River and at the end of the drive, meet with the Gandaki River. Also during your drive, you’ll be able to view rice fields and witness the highway lifestyle.

For those who want to skip the road travel, there is an option for a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. But that will incur an additional charge in your overall trekking budget.

Fly to Jomsom (2,700 m/8,855 ft.) & Trek to Kagbeni (2,800 m/9,185 ft.) Duration: 3 to 4 Hrs.

The following day, after you reach Pokhara, presents you with an exciting and adventurous flight to Jomsom. This is a short flight spanning almost 20 to 25 minutes of flight time, which covers a distance of 68 km/42.25 miles. As you are in the air, you’ll be treated to stunning mountain views, from the Annapurna to the Machhapuchhre range.

Once you touch down at the Jomsom airport, which is also known as Nepal's most beautiful airport, you’ll be greeted by stunning surroundings. An interesting aspect of this airport is, this is operated completely by the Nepalese Military.

Surrounded by the stunning beauty of Jomsom, you start your journey with a trek to Kagbeni. This village acts as the gateway to the Upper Mustang and is the oldest settlement amongst the mountains. Approximately 10.7 km/6.64 miles from Jomsom, this trek requires 3 to 4 hours of walking across the landscape of Mustang. You’ll also cross refreshing and gushing rivers along the way.

Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,110 m/10,200 ft.) Duration: 5 to 6 hrs

On this day, your journey will take you from Kagbeni to Chele, covering a distance of approximately 15 km (9.32 miles). This part of the trek will require you to walk for 5 to 6 hours as you traverse through the eastern bank of the Kali Gandaki River.

Chele is an attractive village that has a maze of narrow streets amidst white-walled houses, surrounded by fields of wheat, grains, and apple orchids. From this village, you can view the panoramic sight of the Nilgiri summit that dominates the southern horizon of Kagbeni.

Trek from Chele to Geling (3,500 m/11,480 ft.) Duration: 7 to 8 hrs

You start your journey today with a longer and more extensive trek toward Geling, with approximately 18 km/11.18 miles in about 7 to 8 hours.

Today, you’ll be presented with a variation of trails, featuring a barren path alongside a captivating gorge. You’ll be encountering uphill climbs and downhill descents as you progress through the trail. As you reach a pile of stones at 3540 meters, your journey will continue, ascending to a ridge above Samar. Then it’s followed by a steep descent into a sprawling canyon. As you cross through fields and streams, we ascend again to a ridge at 3800 meters, navigate another pass, and descend to Shyangmochen. Finally, you start ascending a pass at 3770 meters before descending to Geling Village.

Trek from Geling to Charang via Ghar Gompa (3,560 m/11,680 ft.) Duration 7 to 8 hrs

After a relaxing night at Geling, you’ll move on to another adventure towards Charang, spanning almost 16 km/9.94 miles and lasting 7 to 8 hours.

Today’s trek is a mix of uphill ascents and downhill descents, with many cliffs offering you views of the towns and hillocks. Along this route, you may be lucky enough to witness a Bharal (Blue Sheep) as you ascend towards Mui La pass at 4170m.

You’ll stop briefly at Ghar Gompa, which is also known as the hidden jewel of the Upper Mustang region.

Trek from Charang to Lo-Manthang (3,840 m/12,595 ft.) Duration 4 to 5 hrs

On this day, you’ll trek for about 4 to 5 hours along the steady trails and moderate climbs to reach the walled city of Lo-Manthang. You’ll walk about 12 km/7.45 miles that day. As you come near Lo-Manthang, you’ll be greeted by the walls that surround the city, reminding us about the rich history of the ancient city.

Excursion Day in Lo-Manthang

Today, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the wealthy culture of the region. You can also get insights by exploring some remarkable landmarks and interacting with the locals. As an alternative, you can also choose to relax and soak in the beauty of your surroundings. You can tailor your own experience based on your interests and preferences.

Trek from Lo-Manthang to Yara (3,838 m/12,590 ft.) Duration 7 to 8 hrs

Bidding Lo-Manthang farewell, you start on a 7 to 8-hour journey to Yara at 3838 meters, which will be about 17 km/10.56 miles away. You’ll enjoy the views of Lo from a glacial valley and stop for lunch at DHI. After that lunch break, you’ll follow the riverbed or the hill trails (depending on the season) and reach Yara. You’ll marvel at the sandy castle-like structures when you reach the top of Yara Hill.

Visit Luri Gompa & Back to Yara. Duration 6 to 7 hrs.

Today is another day of acclimatization in Yara, allowing your bodies to get adjusted to the high altitude and surroundings. There is an option for you to visit Luri Gompa, located at around 3.5 km/2.1 miles away from Yara which takes around 6 to 7 hours of walking. It is a sacred site on top of a 100-meter-high cliff, which is also known as the Seven Wonders of Upper Mustang.

Trek from Yara to Tangbe (3,240 m/10,630 ft.) Duration 6 to 7 hrs

The distance from Yara to Tangbe spans almost 18.3 km/11.3 miles which takes about 6 to 7 hours. Early in the morning, you’ll follow a route toward Dhechaeng Khola, that originated from Damodar Kund. Along this route, you cross over a small stream of melting ice before you ascend to DHI Village. The path then winds through the Desert Mountains, leading to Tangya, a Lo-Pa, a town nestled quietly among the mountains.

Trek from Tangye to Tetang (3,067 m/10,060 ft.) Duration 7 to 8 hrs

Today, you’ll cover a distance of about 28 Kilometers or 17.3 miles in about 7 to 8 hours Hours, making this one of the most challenging days of the Upper Mustang journey. You’ll ascend to the highest point, Paha, at 4210 meters, taking almost 2 to 3 hours of climbing. As there are no tea houses or any lunch places, you have to carry your own for sustenance. It is also crucial for you to carry plenty of water as you need to hydrate yourself. From this point, you’ll be able to view both the Damodar Himal and the Saribung Himal.

Trek from Tetang to Muktinath (3,800 m/12,465 ft.) Duration 5-6 hrs

This trek will take you through a site with Fossil Stones called Shaligram, which holds significant value in the Hindu religion. Today, you’ll cover about 14.7 km/9.1 miles in approximately 6 hours. Muktinath is one of the significant sacred sites for Buddhists as well as Hindus.

Trek From Muktinath to Jomsom (2,700 m/8,855 ft) Duration 6 to 7 hrs

You awake to the sight of Mount Dhaulagiri, setting a tone for your day as you visit the sacred temple of Muktinath. This holy temple holds a deep significance to both Hindus and Buddhists, drawing pilgrims from all over the world.

After you immerse yourself in the spirituality of Muktinath, you start your trek back to Jomsom. This route will span approximately 21 km/13 miles, requiring 6 to 7 hours of steady walking. During your trek back, you’ll be treated to rows of apple orchids, adding a picturesque charm to your trek.

Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara

From Jomsom, you’ll take a 25-minute flight back to Pokhara. Once you arrive in Pokhara, you can stroll around Phewa Lake to rejuvenate your mind and body. You can rest around or explore the vibrant city of Pokhara.

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu along the winding roads and green hills. This also provides ample opportunity to reminisce about your journey to the Himalayas. You’ll feel a sense of achievement and fulfillment that comes after such extraordinary adventure.

Conclusion

So to conclude this, having a comprehensive guide for the Upper Mustang Trek with Yara is beneficial. But trekking in the Himalayas requires more than just knowledge, it’s important to prepare your body and mind as well. So it's better to start your preparation early to ensure an enjoyable but also safe trekking experience.