Kathmandu to Pokhara and Upper Mustang 4WD Jeep Tour

The Kathmandu to Pokhara and Upper Mustang 4WD Jeep Tour is a once-in-a-lifetime overland adventure through some of Nepal’s most spectacular landscapes and ancient cultures. Starting in the vibrant capital city Kathmandu, this journey takes you to the serene lake city of Pokhara, before heading north to the mystical kingdom of Upper Mustang, once a restricted area and known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal.”

Traveling by 4WD Jeep offers both comfort and adventure, allowing you to explore the remote Himalayan desert, ancient Tibetan villages, and dramatic mountain terrain that trekking routes can’t easily access. The tour offers deep cultural encounters, stunning Himalayan views, and the thrill of driving through rugged mountain roads that follow the Kali Gandaki River Valley.

With Jatra Travels Pvt. Ltd., you’ll experience the perfect blend of cultural exploration, spiritual enrichment, and Himalayan adventure all in comfort and safety.

Tour Highlights

• Thrilling 4WD Jeep journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara and through the mystical landscapes of Upper Mustang.

• Explore the forbidden kingdom of Lo-Manthang, rich in Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, and walled cities.

• Scenic drive through Kali Gandaki Gorge — the deepest gorge in the world.

• Discover picturesque Marpha, Kagbeni, Chele, Syangboche, and Ghami villages.

• Visit centuries-old monasteries and caves carved into cliffs in the Upper Mustang region.

• Panoramic Himalayan views of Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri ranges.

• Experience the traditional Thakali and Tibetan lifestyle in the trans-Himalayan desert.

• Perfect adventure for those seeking both spiritual discovery and cultural immersion — without strenuous trekking.

The Kathmandu to Pokhara and Upper Mustang 4WD Jeep Tour is one of Nepal’s most scenic and culturally rich overland journeys. This route takes travelers from the green valleys of Kathmandu and Pokhara to the mystical trans-Himalayan kingdom of Upper Mustang a region once restricted to outsiders and known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom.”

It’s a perfect adventure for travelers seeking to experience ancient Tibetan culture, dramatic landscapes, and the thrill of driving through one of the world’s most unique high-altitude desert regions — all while enjoying the comfort and flexibility of a 4WD Jeep.

About Upper Mustang

• Location: Northern part of the Annapurna Conservation Area, bordering Tibet.
• Altitude Range: 2,800 m – 4,000 m (Lo-Manthang at 3,840 m).
• Culture: Predominantly Tibetan Buddhist; home to centuries-old monasteries, chhortens, prayer walls, and cave dwellings.
• Capital: Lo-Manthang — a walled city founded in the 14th century, once ruled by the Mustang King.
• Religion & Traditions: Influenced by Tibetan Buddhism with unique local festivals like Tiji Festival (celebrated in May).

• Route and Transportation

• Route: Kathmandu → Pokhara → Beni → Jomsom → Kagbeni → Chele → Syangboche → Ghami → Tsarang → Lo-Manthang (Upper Mustang)
• Transportation: Private 4WD Jeep (Scorpio or Bolero) — ideal for the rugged mountain terrain.
• Road Condition: Mix of black-topped roads, gravel, and off-road mountain tracks.
• Alternative Option: Optional flight from Pokhara to Jomsom (weather-dependent).

• Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March–May): Clear weather, colorful landscapes, and ideal for photography.
• Autumn (September–November): Stable weather and best visibility of the Himalayas.
• Summer (June–August): Still accessible since Mustang lies in a rain shadow area, making it one of the few destinations to visit during monsoon.
• Winter (December–February): Cold and windy, but open to adventurous travelers.

• Accommodation

• Comfortable tourist hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
• Standard mountain lodges or guesthouses in Jomsom and Upper Mustang.
• Rooms equipped with basic facilities, attached or common bathrooms, and hot showers (where available).
• Cozy dining areas serving local and continental meals.

• Meals

• Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included throughout the tour.
• Authentic Thakali and Tibetan dishes available in Mustang.
• Vegetarian, vegan, or Jain meal options upon request.

•  Permits Required

  Travel to Upper Mustang is regulated by the Government of Nepal. The following permits are mandatory:

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – USD 500 per person for 10 days (extra days cost USD 50/day).
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – NPR 3,000 per person.
• TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) – NPR 2,000 per person (if applicable).

• Jatra Travels Pvt. Ltd. arranges all required permits and documentation for you.

  What to Bring

• Warm clothes, windproof jacket, gloves, and woolen cap.
• Comfortable walking shoes or trekking boots.
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, and personal medications.
• Portable charger or power bank.
• Passport copy (for permit processing).

• Travel Tips

• Upper Mustang lies at high altitude — ascend gradually and stay hydrated.
• Carry cash in Nepali rupees, as ATMs are limited beyond Jomsom.
• Respect local customs and ask before taking photos of people or monasteries.
• Roads can be bumpy; a 4WD vehicle ensures comfort and safety.
• Always keep a light jacket and drinking water handy during the drive.

• Why Travel with Jatra Travels Pvt. Ltd.

• Licensed and experienced Upper Mustang tour operator.
• Reliable 4WD Jeeps with professional mountain drivers.
• Expert guides fluent in English and familiar with local culture.
• Customizable itineraries and full permit arrangements.
• 24/7 assistance and personalized travel service.