Is a permit required for Manang and Mustang?

Yes. Foreign travelers need TIMS, Annapurna Conservation, and Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit.

What is the best time to travel?

March to June and September to November are ideal for clear skies and comfortable travel.

Do I need a guide for Manang and Mustang?

A licensed guide is highly recommended, especially for remote Mustang and high-altitude terrain.

Can beginners visit Mustang?

Yes. The itinerary is jeep-friendly with optional short hikes that are suitable for beginners.

10-Day Manang Mustang Itinerary — Where to Stay, Food, Packing & Best Season

Manang and Mustang are Nepal’s crown jewels — snow peaks, sacred monasteries, timeless villages and some of the world’s most dramatic desert landscapes. This 10-day itinerary blends slow travel, monastery visits, jeep rides, short hikes and cultural experiences ideal for foreign travelers.

Start Point: Kathmandu → End Point: Jomsom / Pokhara → Kathmandu

🗓️ Day-by-Day Manang & Mustang Itinerary

Day 1 — Kathmandu Arrival

Airport pickup → check-in → evening Thamel walk.

Stay: Hotel Yellow Buddha / Himalayan Suite

Day 2 — Drive to Besisahar (760m)

6–7 hours drive. Overnight in town. Visit local bazaar.

Stay: Besisahar Guest House / Royal Garden

Day 3 — Besisahar to Chame (2,650m)

Jeep ride on rugged road, waterfalls, narrow cliff tracks.

Stay: Hotel Manaslu / Tilicho Guest House

Day 4 — Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)

Walk or jeep. Explore pine forests & Marsyangdi valley.

Stay: Hotel Manang Marshyangdi

Day 5 — Upper Pisang to Manang Village (3,519m)

Slow acclimatization + Himalayan views.

Stay: Yeti Lodge / Gangapurna Hotel

Day 6 — Explore Manang

Hike Lake Gangapurna or Milarepa Cave, bakery cafes.

Day 7 — Manang to Kagbeni (2,800m)

Drive through Thorong La Pass region (seasonal) or fly to Jomsom and drive.

Stay: Red House Lodge / Yac Donalds (famous!)

Day 8 — Kagbeni to Lo-Manthang (Upper Mustang)

Ancient walled city, monasteries, caves, desert villages.

Stay: Hotel Royal Mustang / Mystique Mustang

Day 9 — Lo-Manthang Exploration

Chosar caves, gompas, yak herding villages.

Day 10 — Drive to Jomsom → Fly to Pokhara / Kathmandu

Trip ends with optional Pokhara lakeside stay.

🍲 What Foods to Try

Thakali Dal Bhat — rice, lentils, veg curry, pickle
Momos + Thukpa
Yak steak / Yak cheese sandwich
Local bakery: apple crumble, cinnamon rolls
Tibetan butter tea

🌤️ Best Time to Visit Manang & Mustang

Mid-March – June (Spring bloom, clear skies)
September – November (Best views, festivals)

December–February: Snow closures, extreme cold
July–August: Muddy roads, limited access

🎒 What to Pack

Down jacket + fleece layers
Thermals (nights get cold)
Windproof outer shell
Hiking shoes + wool socks
Cap, gloves, sunglasses
Portable charger + local SIM
Cash (remote places have no ATMs)

🗺️ Google Map: Kathmandu → Manang → Mustang Route

❓ FAQ

Is a permit required?
Yes — TIMS + Annapurna Conservation + Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang.

Can beginners do this trip?
Yes — most travel is by jeep with optional short hikes.

How much does the trip cost?
USD 900–1,400 depending on jeep, hotels & permits.

Do I need a guide?
Highly recommended for altitude, maps & permits.