The Upper Mustang Overland Jeep Tour is one of Nepal’s most exclusive Himalayan journeys, taking you deep into a region long known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom. Until 1992, Upper Mustang remained closed to the outside world, preserving centuries of Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient traditions, and untouched desert landscapes. Even today, only limited foreign travelers are permitted to enter its restricted areas, making this journey a rare privilege.
Traveling in a private 4WD Jeep, this luxury tour offers all the adventure of Upper Mustang without the physical demands of long trekking. The experience blends rugged off road exploration with premium comfort, guiding you through ancient stone villages, windswept canyons, spiritual landmarks, high mountain passes, and the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang.
From the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath Temple to the sky caves of Chhoser, century old monasteries, royal palaces, the Kali Gandaki Gorge, and the cliff carved terrain of the Trans Himalayan Plateau, this journey unveils the cultural soul and geological wonder of Mustang in exceptional style.
Lo Manthang The Ancient Walled Capital
Founded in the 15th century, Lo Manthang stands as one of the last surviving walled cities of the Himalayas. Once the royal seat of the Kingdom of Lo, its mudbrick alleys, prayer walls, gompas, and palaces reflect a living museum of Tibetan Buddhist heritage. Here you will visit Jampa Lhakhang also known as the God House Thubchen Monastery filled with ancient murals Chode Monastery home to active monks and the historic Royal Palace. Lo Manthang’s preserved culture, festivals, and architecture make it one of the most culturally significant destinations in Nepal.
Muktinath The Sacred Pilgrimage Site
Located at 3,800 m, Muktinath is one of the holiest temples for Hindus and Buddhists. Pilgrims seek blessings from the eternal flame and the 108 sacred water spouts symbolizing purification. Combined with sweeping views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri, the visit to Muktinath is a profound spiritual highlight.
Ancient Sky Caves and Century Old Monasteries
Upper Mustang is home to thousands of sky caves believed to be over 2,000 years old. In Chhoser, the remarkable Jhong Cave rises five levels and contains over 40 rooms used for meditation, shelter, and spiritual practice. Monasteries such as Lo Ghekar founded in the 8th century and older than Tibet’s Samye Monastery represent some of the oldest Buddhist sites in the Himalayas.
The Forbidden Kingdom and Restricted Area Permit
Upper Mustang remains one of Nepal’s most controlled travel regions. Its restricted area designation protects the fragile culture, sacred heritage, and trans Himalayan environment. All travelers must obtain a special permit and travel with a registered Nepali company. This sense of exclusivity adds to the allure of visiting a region that still feels timeless, untouched, and culturally authentic.
Unmatched Landscapes of the Trans Himalayan Plateau
This journey takes you through dramatic desert canyons, eroded cliffs, ochre colored hills, river carved valleys, and the famed Kali Gandaki Gorge. Known for Shaligram fossils considered manifestations of Lord Vishnu this gorge is the deepest in the world. Mountain views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukuche frame the landscape throughout the drive.
A Comfortable and Adventurous Journey
The Luxury Jeep Tour is perfect for travelers who seek an immersive cultural and visual experience without the physical requirements of a long trek. With premium accommodations, expert guides, and seamless logistics, this adventure delivers both comfort and excitement in one of Nepal’s most remote destinations.
Welcome to Nepal. Upon arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport our team will greet you and escort you to your luxury hotel. Enjoy a welcome briefing and time to relax or explore the nearby area at your leisure.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2-Mustang Permit Processing and Drive or Flight to Pokhara 820 m
After breakfast your special restricted area permit for Upper Mustang will be processed. Enjoy a short cultural orientation or personal leisure time before beginning your journey to Pokhara.
You may choose a scenic 25 minute flight or a comfortable overland drive of approximately six hours. Upon arrival settle into your lakeside luxury hotel and enjoy Pokhara’s serene atmosphere.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 3-Drive from Pokhara to Beni to Tatopani 1190 m
Begin your overland adventure with a scenic drive along the Kali Gandaki corridor. Pass terraced farmland, lush hillsides, and charming villages until you reach Beni the gateway to Mustang.
Continue north to Tatopani and take in the changing landscape as greenery transitions into high Himalayan terrain. Optional: relax in the natural hot springs.
Overnight in Tatopani.
Day 4-Drive from Tatopani to Kagbeni 2804 m and Visit Muktinath Temple 3800 m
Journey through Ghasa Marpha Jomsom and the Kali Gandaki Gorge. Reach the historic village of Kagbeni gateway to Upper Mustang with its stone alleys and ancient monasteries.
Continue to Muktinath Temple one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus and Buddhists. Explore the temple complex the holy flame and the 108 water spouts.
Return to Kagbeni for the night.
Overnight in Kagbeni.
Day 5-Drive from Kagbeni to Ghami 3520 m via Syangboche Pass 4200 m
Enter the restricted Upper Mustang region after presenting your permits. The drive unfolds through dramatic rock formations traditional Mustang villages and arid landscapes.
Cross Syangboche Pass for breathtaking views of the Trans Himalayan desert and snow capped peaks then descend to Ghami known for its iconic red cliffs and the longest mani wall in Nepal.
Overnight in Ghami.
Day 6-Drive from Ghami to Lo Manthang 3840 m
Travel past Dhakmar’s deep red cliffs and visit Lo Ghekar Monastery one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the Himalayas. Continue across wide plateaus and prayer walls until Lo Manthang’s majestic walled city appears.
Enter the ancient kingdom and begin your cultural immersion.
Overnight in Lo Manthang.
Day 7-Explore Lo Manthang and Chhoser Sky Caves
Spend the morning visiting the historic monasteries of Lo Manthang including Jampa Thubchen and Chode. Explore ancient murals mandalas and spiritual artifacts.
In the afternoon drive to Chhoser to visit the remarkable Jhong Cave a five level sky cave with more than 40 rooms believed to be over 2,500 years old.
Return to Lo Manthang for your final evening in the walled city.
Overnight in Lo Manthang.
Day 8-Drive Back to Jomsom 2743 m
Retrace your route through the Upper Mustang landscapes village settlements and ancient landmarks. Witness the scenery gradually shift from barren plateaus to greener lower Mustang valleys.
Arrive in Jomsom by late afternoon.
Overnight in Jomsom.
Day 9-Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara 820 m
Travel through Marpha Tukuche Ghasa and Tatopani then continue along the river valleys and hills toward Pokhara. Upon arrival enjoy a relaxing evening by Phewa Lake.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 10-Pokhara Sightseeing and Drive/Fly to Kathmandu
Visit Pokhara’s key attractions such as Davis Falls Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave the World Peace Pagoda and optional boating on Phewa Lake. In the afternoon take a scenic flight back to Kathmandu.
Enjoy a cultural farewell dinner in the evening.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 11-Final Departure
After breakfast our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international flight. Depart Nepal with unforgettable memories of the Forbidden Kingdom and the high Himalayan desert.
Include & Excludes
Include
Transportation: All land and air travel (flights, jeep rides, etc.) as per the itinerary.
Accommodation: Comfortable hotel/tea house stays with private rooms.
Meals: Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek.
Licensed English-Speaking Guide: Experienced and professional guide, licensed to ensure a safe and informative experience.
Porter Service: One porter for every two trekkers to carry luggage.
Permits: All necessary permits including the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit and TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System).
Sightseeing: Guided tours to key attractions in the region, including Lo Manthang, monasteries, and caves.
All StaffSalaries: The wages for the guide, porters, and any other staff members involved in the trip.
Meals and Accommodation for Staff: The costs for meals and accommodation for all trek staff, ensuring they are well taken care of throughout the journey.
Exclude
InternationalFlights: Flights to and from Nepal are not included.
PersonalExpenses: Costs such as laundry, drinks, snacks, phone calls, etc.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance (recommended to cover medical evacuation).
Visa Fees: Nepal visa fees (if applicable).
Tips: Gratuities for guides, porters, and other staff members.
AdditionalActivities: Any optional activities not listed in the itinerary (e.g., cultural performances, extra tours).
PersonalEquipment: Trekking gear such as boots, backpacks, sleeping bags, and jackets are not included.
EmergencyCosts: Any costs related to medical emergencies or evacuation.
Meals in Kathmandu or Pokhara: Meals outside of the trekking days, including in the cities, are not covered.