On a relaxing 6-day journey, explore the Upper Mustang tour by bus: the last forbidden kingdom of Nepal. You’ll travel through breathtaking landscapes where Tibetan monasteries, sky caves, and desert-like cliffs tell ancient stories. This tour is perfect for non-trekkers, families, and culture lovers, ending at the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang.
- No trekking required
- Comfortable overland ride by bus/jeep
- Experience authentic Tibetan culture & hidden Himalayan beauty
Overview
Upper Mustang Tour by Bus Facts
- Tour Type: Overland Adventure via Bus/Jeep
- Duration: 6 Days and 5 Nights
- Max Altitude: 3,840 meters (Lo Manthang)
- Starting Point: Kathmandu or Pokhara
- Ending Point: Kathmandu or Pokhara
- Suitable For: All ages, culture lovers, families, seniors, and anyone seeking comfort with adventure.
- Price Range: Around USD 1,500 to USD 3,000 per person (varies by service and group size)
- Vehicle Type: 4WD jeep/tourist bus (Mahindra Scorpio, Land Cruiser, or similar)
Permit Info:
- Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit: USD 500 for the first 10 days + USD 50 per extra day
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Approx. USD 25
- TIMS Card: Usually not required for jeep tours, but required for trekking
- Permits must be issued via licensed trekking agencies (independent travel not allowed)
This Upper Mustang tour by bus is designed for travellers seeking comfort without compromise, combining scenic wonder and cultural immersion in Nepal’s mystical kingdom.
Highlights
- Explore Lo Manthang, the world's last walled city.
- Drive across the world's deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki.
- Explore ancient sky caves and the fascinating Chhoser caves.
- Visit the hallowed Tibetan monasteries with centuries-old murals.
- Experience true Tibetan culture and traditions.
- Optional excursion to the sacred Muktinath Temple.
- Witness breathtaking desert views at high altitudes.
- Meet the welcoming Lo-pa people and learn about their culture.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna ranges.
- Seasonal bonus: Attend the colorful Tiji Festival (May).
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Bus/Jeep transport (Kathmandu ↔ Lo Manthang)
- Accommodation in local guesthouses
- All necessary permits (RAP & ACAP)
- Experienced English-speaking guide
- Daily breakfast, lunch & dinner
- Cultural sightseeing as per the itinerary
Cost Excludes
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (snacks, drinks)
- Tips for guides/drivers
- Flights (optional Jomsom-Pokhara)
- Emergency evacuation costs
Cost Breakdown
Take a Bus to Jomsom: It costs approximately $15 each way.
Flight to Jomsom: It costs approximately US$115 each way.
Take a Private Jeep to Jomsom: It costs approximately $300 one way, but could vary widely depending on the time of year and petrol costs.
Itinerary
Here is a 6-day itinerary from Pokhara to Upper Mustang by road:
You’ll start early with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Nepal’s adventure capital. You’ll enjoy views of terraced hills, traditional villages, and the rise of the Annapurna mountain range. After a 6-7-hour ride, you’ll arrive in Pokhara. Upon arrival, you’ll check into lakeside accommodation and spend the evening leisurely by Phewa Lake, exploring the lakeside market or enjoying the sunset over the mountains.
After breakfast, your journey from Pokhara to Jomsom will begin. You’ll pass through Beni, Tatopani, and Ghasa, witnessing the dramatic change from lush subtropical valleys to the arid high-altitude desert area. You will drive through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge, flanked by towering peaks. Your arrival in Jomsom will be in the late afternoon for an overnight stay and some local exploration.
On the third day, you’ll enter the restricted Upper Mustang region with permit checks at Kagbeni. Then journey through a lunar, desert-like landscape to reach the walled kingdom of Lo Manthang. You’ll explore the Royal Palace and Jampa Gompa monastery, absorbing centuries of Mustang’s Tibetan Buddhist heritage, and stay overnight in Lo Manthang.
You’ll spend a dedicated day immersing in the culture of this ancient walled city, Lo Manthang. Visit Thubchen Gompa, stroll the narrow city alleyways, and meet local Lo-pa people. You can also take an excursion to nearby Chhoser caves, historical meditation and burial sites carved into cliffs, reflecting a hidden spiritual past.
On this day, you’ll return from Lo Manthang to Jomsom, stop at Tsarang village to explore its grand dzong fortress and monastery. After that, visit a spectacular sky cave perched on sheer cliffs and arrive back in Jomsom with time for evening leisure or local sightseeing.
On the very last day, you’ll depart early morning to Pokhara. If you’re short on time, an optional flight is available from Jomsom to Pokhara (not included in the package). And continue from Pokhara via road to Kathmandu, concluding your memorable Upper Mustang journey.
Note: You cannot travel to Upper Mustang by local bus because there are no public or tourism buses that go to the restricted Upper Mustang region; instead, you must use a private jeep or motorbike, or travel part of the way by a local bus to Jomsom and then hire a jeep for the remainder of the journey to the region's interior. Book Your 6-Day Upper Mustang Bus Tour Now with Visit Mustang Nepal
Book Your 6-Day Upper Mustang Bus Tour Now
Map
Trekkers Information
Key Attractions of the Upper Mustang Tour by Bus Tour
Drive through Kali Gandaki Gorge: Experience the world’s deepest gorge as you wind through dramatic landscapes between towering peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, witnessing geology that spans millions of years.
Visit Lo Manthang: Step into the 15th-century walled city, the capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang, where the King’s palace still stands and ancient traditions remain beautifully preserved.
Explore Sky Caves: Marvel at the mysterious man-made caves carved into cliffsides thousands of years ago, some reaching up to 14 stories high, a testament to ancient engineering skills.
Chhoser Caves: Discover this impressive cave complex that once served as meditation retreats for monks and storage spaces for local communities, offering glimpses into centuries-old Buddhist practices.
Tibetan Monasteries & Local Culture: Visit Thubchen Gompa, Jampa Gompa, and other sacred sites adorned with intricate murals and ancient artifacts, while experiencing living Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Muktinath Temple: Make an optional pilgrimage to this sacred site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, known for its eternal flame and 108 water spouts.
Scenic Villages: Stop at picturesque settlements like Kagbeni (gateway to Upper Mustang), bustling Jomsom, and historic Tsarang with its impressive dzong (fortress).
Tiji Festival Bonus: Time your visit during May to witness this spectacular three-day festival celebrating the victory of good over evil, featuring colourful masked dances and ancient rituals.
Best Time For the Upper Mustang Tour by Bus
Ideal Seasons:
Spring (March–May): Perfect weather with clear mountain views, blooming rhododendrons at lower elevations, and the famous Tiji Festival in May
Autumn (September–November): Crisp air, excellent visibility, stable weather conditions, and comfortable daytime temperatures.
Avoid:
Monsoon Season (June–August): Though Upper Mustang lies in a rain-shadow, lower elevation roads can be affected by landslides. As you are travelling the Upper Mustang tour by bus, you should avoid this season.
Deep Winter (December–February): Extreme cold, possible snowfall blocking high passes, and harsh conditions.
Special Consideration: Plan your visit during the Tiji Festival (usually mid-May) for a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience, but book well in advance as accommodations fill up quickly.
Don’t miss out on the best deals! Plan your budget-friendly Upper Mustang tour by bus during the shoulder season and save on your travel expenses!
What Permits Do You Need for the Upper Mustang Tour?
Upper Mustang requires a qualified guide. This ensures the region’s protected status while also providing historical background and cultural sensitivity. Your guide will also take care of the permit requirements, and you will have a significant enhancement of your cultural experience.
Restricted Area Permit (RAP):
Cost: USD 500 per person for 10 days
Additional USD 50 per day beyond 10 days
Required for all foreign nationals
Cannot be obtained individually; must be through a registered agency
Limited RAP Permits per Season – Book Early!
Permit Tip: RAP can’t be applied for individually — must go through a registered agency.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
- Apply via our certified tour operator, with no individual permit application hassle
- Processing time: 1–2 weeks before departure
- Guides ensure compliance and enrich your cultural experience
At Visit Mustang Nepal, we’ve experienced Himalayan drivers, 24/7 support, and hassle-free permit handling. Let us handle all permits for you!
Upper Mustang Tour by Bus Distance Breakdown: How Far Is Each Stop and What’s Beautiful There?
- Kathmandu to Pokhara (200 km)
- Journey through the middle hills
- Scenic terraced fields shape the landscape
- Traditional villages showcase local culture and lifestyle
- Arrive at serene Phewa Lake
- Reflections of the Annapurna mountain range on the lake surface
- Picture-perfect moments for photography and relaxation
Pokhara to Jomsom (170 km)
- Travel through the world’s deepest Kali Gandaki Gorge
- Dramatic landscape transitions from lush green valleys to high-altitude deserts
- Experience breathtaking mountain vistas featuring 8,000-meter peaks, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
Jomsom to Lo Manthang (50 km)
- Enter the mystical Tibetan plateau
- Barren landscapes with a desert-like beauty create an otherworldly atmosphere
- Ancient sky caves carved into cliffs, revealing historical significance
- Weathered cliffs tell geological stories of the region
Explore the distinctive culture of the upper Mustang, the traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture, and the walled city of Lo Manthang.
Small Route Map Description
The small route for the Upper Mustang tour by bus begins in Kathmandu, heads west to Pokhara, then continues northwest through the Kali Gandaki Gorge to Jomsom, and finally ascends into the arid Tibetan plateau region to Lo Manthang in Upper Mustang.
This route covers approximately 420 km by road and jeep, traversing varying terrains from lush hills to deep gorges and barren high-altitude plateaus.
Choose the Bus Tour over Trekking
| Feature | Bus Tour | Trekking |
| Physical Effort | Low, suitable for all ages | High requires fitness |
| Comfort | Comfortable transport & lodging | Basic lodges/camping |
| Duration | 6 days | 12–15 days |
| Ideal For | Families, seniors, and limited-time travelers | Adventure lovers |
Accommodation & Food: What Can You Expect?
Accommodation
You’ll stay in genuine local tea houses and family-run guesthouses that provide simple but surprisingly pleasant accommodations with big blankets to battle the high-altitude chill. While the facilities are basic, the genuine friendliness of your hosts and the natural beauty of your surroundings create an environment that luxury hotels cannot match.
Food
You’ll indulge in healthy dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), a staple of traditional Nepali food that will give you the energy you need for high-altitude explorations. You can savour hot momos (dumplings), traditional Tibetan bread, and thukpa (a noodle soup that’s perfect for chilly nights). Even while there could be some Western options in larger areas, embracing local cuisines improves your cultural experience.
Local Hospitality
You’ll experience the authentic warmth of Himalayan hospitality as local families share their homes, stories, and customs. Hot meals prepared with care, yak butter tea ceremonies, and evenings spent around the fire listening to local folklore all create lifelong memories, making even the most basic accommodations feel like the most pleasant places on earth.
Ready to explore the last Forbidden Kingdom in comfort? Book your Upper Mustang by bus package today! Contact us
WhatsApp at +977-9810599129
Call at +977-9810599129
Email at tour@visitmustangnepal.com
Travellers' Questions
Yes, buses or jeeps can reach Lo Manthang via the road network, allowing comfortable access without hiking. This motorable road allows comfortable access to the ancient walled city without requiring any hiking, making Upper Mustang accessible to travelers of all physical abilities.
No strenuous fitness is necessary since most travel is by vehicle. However, you should be prepared for high-altitude conditions (up to 3,840 meters) and be comfortable with some walking around monasteries, caves, and villages.
While roads are generally safe and well-maintained by local standards, some stretches can be narrow, dusty, and rough due to the challenging high-altitude terrain. Our experienced local drivers are familiar with these conditions and prioritize safety.
Pack layered clothing suitable for dramatic mountain weather variations: warm clothes including down jackets for cold nights and early mornings, light clothes for comfortable daytime temperatures, and quality rain gear if traveling during shoulder seasons. Don’t forget sun protection, UV rays are intense at high altitude, and the desert landscape offers little shade.
Upper Mustang Tour can be done solo. It is the ideal tour that should be undertaken by self-governing travelers who seek cultural experiences. Nevertheless, it is compulsory to have a licensed guide that accompanies you when you are travelling, based on the permit restrictions, although groups of people with a minimal size sometimes can have a beneficial experience through shared discoveries and cost-sharing. Many solo travelers find lifelong friendships on these intimate cultural journeys.
The best time for the Upper Mustang tour is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), with clear skies and mild temperatures. The monsoon season (June–August) brings rain and possible landslides, while winter (December–February) can be very cold with snow at high altitudes.
Yes, the bus tour is generally suitable for travelers with mild mobility challenges as it requires minimal walking. However, some sightseeing spots may involve uneven terrain, so informing the guide in advance is recommended.
Solo travelers are welcome and generally safe on this tour, especially when accompanied by a professional guide or as part of a group. Following local safety advice and staying with the group enhances security.
Though the bus reduces physical exertion, altitude sickness can still affect travelers at higher elevations. Drink plenty of water, ascend slowly, avoid alcohol, and rest adequately; consult your doctor for medication if needed.
Yes, solo travelers can join group tours and often benefit from the company, shared costs, and social interactions. You can book in advance to secure a spot in available group departures.
The cost of the Upper Mustang bus tour typically ranges from $50 to $150 per person, depending on the duration and inclusions of the tour package. Prices may vary based on the season and the tour operator.
Yes, families with kids can join the Upper Mustang bus tours. Many tour operators offer family-friendly options and accommodations, making it suitable for travelers with children.
Choosing between public transport and a private bus for Upper Mustang depends on your preferences. Private buses offer more comfort, flexibility, and convenience, while public transport is more budget-friendly but may be less comfortable and require more planning.
The best time for budget tours to Upper Mustang is during the shoulder seasons, specifically in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these times, prices are generally lower, and the weather is favorable for trekking and exploration.
