Upper Mustang Heli Return Trek

0 Reviews Best Seller13 days
The Upper Mustang Trek with Helicopter Return combines an immersive Himalayan journey with a spectacular, time-saving aerial finale. Trek through the forbidden kingdom’s desert canyons, ancient cave monasteries, and culturally rich Lo Manthang, then enjoy a breathtaking helicopter flight over the rugged Mustang terrain and snow-capped peaks. This trip blends adventure, culture, and comfort into an unforgettable experience.
DestinationNepal
Duration13 Days
DifficultyModerate to Difficult
ActivityTrekking/Hiking
StayHotel & Tea Houses
Max Altitude3730m
Group SizeMin 2 Pax
TransportCar/Flight
DiningB.L.D

Detailed Overview

Are you all set for a stunning aerial view of the entire Mustang region from above the sky on a helicopter? If yes, then we offer you an Upper Mustang Heli Trek to fulfill your quest for a wild, adventurous flight and trekking at the same time. Upper Mustang, located in the trans-Himalayan region of Nepal, is one of the admired places that resembles the Tibetan plateau. Its wild, dry, and desert-like landscape has always enthralled the hearts of fellow travelers. Also, the old villages, settlements that resemble the Tibetan villages, mountains, ancient monasteries, and isolation of the place make you feel as if you have travelled back in time.

 

Upper Mustang Heli Tour takes you to the old forbidden Buddhist kingdom of Lo. You walk past the deepest gorge of the world (Kaligandaki gorge) and traverse into the wild, dry, and arid landscape that resembles some desert-like features – sandy, rocky, treeless, and waterless. The yellow, gray, and rolling hills eroded by strong winds beyond the Annapurna massif bring you to the kingdom of Lo. Its distinctive features have always allured travelers. Lo is the only walled city in Nepal that lies very close to the Tibetan border. It was once not allowed for foreigners, but was opened for tourists only in 1992. Upper Mustang Heli Tour starts from the fertile lowlands. It takes you to the desert-like sandy terrain with stunning views of mountains like Macchapucchre, Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, Annapurna, etc. on the way.

 

The city of Lo Manthang is treasured with ancient monasteries. The city in itself is a lure. The traditional people, their lifestyle, and the isolation within the wilderness make the place a fabulous city. Upper Mustang Heli Tour, unlike other treks to Upper Mustang, concludes with an aerial view of the entire Lo Manthang and Upper Mustang. After exploring the city, a helicopter will pick you up and let you enjoy an aerial view of Upper Mustang. The sparsely populated villages, monasteries, mountains, and diversified landscapes make Upper Mustang Heli Trek a unique journey to the region. If you are willing to be a part of this phenomenon, journey, do not forget to contact your reliable travel companion – World Alpine Treks.

Expert Itinerary

01

Day 1 Arrival Day in Kathmandu (TIA)

The first day marks your arrival day in Kathmandu. Clear all the visa requirements and customs clearance if any at the arrival section of the airport. As you come out, you will find a representative from World Alpine Treks waiting for you holding a board with your name. You will then be transferred to your hotel at Kathmandu. The representative will shortly inform you about the plans ahead.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsMeals Not Included
02

Day 2 Fly to Pokhara (820m/2681ft) - 25 Minutes

We will pick you up at the hotel in the morning and transfer you to the airport for a direct flight to Pokhara. Upon arrival, you will be escorted to a hotel in Pokhara. Check into the hotel and get ready for your journey ahead. In the evening, we can visit the lakeside area. We can enjoy boating around the lake or relax watching the fascinating views of mountains, hills, the lake, and colourful boats. Tonight, at a hotel in Pokhara (Inclusive of breakfast)

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast Included
03

Day 3 Fly to Jomsom (2720m/8894ft) - 30 Minutes and trek to Kagbeni (2810m/9188ft) - 3:30 hours2810 Meters) - 4 Hours

Early in the morning, you will be escorted to the Pokhara airport for an early flight to Jomsom. The flight to Jomsom is filled with wonderful mountain views. You will be rewarded with the astonishing views of the Annapurna massif that rise above eight thousand meters. Jomsom is a wonderful town popular for the apple orchards, picturesque landscape, and hospitable people. We begin our trek today from Jomsom. We follow the trail that opens up to a Kagbeni. Kagbeni is a beautiful village and the main gate to Upper Mustang. In the 14th century, it used to be a checkpoint for traders. Now, there is a checkpoint that records the trekkers travelling to Muktinath and the Mustang region. Tonight, we stay at a guesthouse in Kagbeni. (Inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

  • AccommodationGuesthouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
04

Day 4 Trek to Chhusang (2980m/9744ft) - 5 hours

After breakfast in the guesthouse, we follow a trail that goes through the eastern bank of the Kaligandaki River. We traverse through several ridges on the way to Tangbe village. It is a beautiful village with narrow alleys and traditional whitewashed houses. We walk through the fields of buckwheat, barley, wheat, etc, as we pass the village. The view ofthe  Nilgiri Himal from the village is stunning. Leaving Tangbe, we pass the village of Chhusang. Tonight, we stay at a guesthouse in Chhusang. (Inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

  • AccommodationGuesthouse
05

Day 5 Trek to Samar (3660m/11968ft)- 4 hours

Leaving Chhusang, we climb up a huge rock. We ascend up to come out of the Kaligandaki valley and further climb up steeply to Chele, enjoying the close-up views of Nilgiri and Tukuche peak. From Chele, we climb up steeply to Darori La pass and descend until we reach the village of Samar. Tonight, we stay at a guesthouse in Samar. (Inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

  • AccommodationGuesthouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
06

Day 6 Trek to Geling (3570m/11673ft) - 6 hours

Following the trail to Upper Mustang, leave Samar village and march forward. As we move ahead, we can notice a change in the atmosphere. We traverse into a dry, arid, and treeless area. We climb up steeply to a rock cairn enjoying some wonderful views of the Mustang region. A long descent from the cairn leads us to Samar village. From the village, we climb up to a ridge, enjoying the majestic views of the Nilgiri Himal. Further, we descend and continue towards a valley. We follow a route that goes up to another ridge and descends to Shyangmochen. We continue our walk until we reach the village of Geling. Tonight, we stay at a guesthouse in Geling. (Inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

  • AccommodationGuesthouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
07

Day 7 Trek to Ghami (3520m/11510ft) - 5 hours

Leaving Geling, we climb up to the pass of NYI. From the pass, we can enjoy some spectacular views of the mountains in the Annapurna range. With stunning views of mountains in sight, we descend to the cliffs. We cross a steel bridge over the Tangmar Chu River and continue our walk until we reach the village of Ghami. At Ghami, we can see some charming whitewashed houses and farmlands. Tonight, we stay at a guesthouse in Ghami. (Inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

  • AccommodationGuesthouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
08

Day 8 Trek to Charang (3660m/11968ft) - 5 hours

We leave Ghami and walk along a slippery path to Ghami Khola. We cross a bridge over the river and ascend up. On the way, we come across a long mani wall in the Mustang. We further ascend up to a pass at an elevation of 3600 meters and make a long descent down to the Charang village. In the village, we can visit an old five-story dzong and a red gompa. The collection of statues, thangkas, and paintings in these dzongs and gompas is fascinating. Tonight, we stay at a guesthouse in Charang. (Inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

  • AccommodationGuesthouse
09

Day 9 Trek to Lo Manthang (3810m/12458ft) - 4 hours

From Charang, the trail ascends up steeply to Lo Gekar. In Lo Gekar, there is an old gompa whose existence is older than the Samye Gompa in Tibet. We visit this old gompa and continue our journey up towards the upper Mustang. Today, we take a trail to Lo Manthang along a well-defined path with some minor climbing on the way. Lo Manthang is marked by a long wall at the entrance. From the entrance, we take a short descent and cross a small stream on the way. We further climb up to the plateau of Lo Manthang. Tonight, we stay at a guesthouse in Lo Manthang. (Inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

  • AccommodationGuesthouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
10

Day 10 Explore Namgyal gompa and Tingkhar

Today, we spend our day exploring the village of Lo Manthang. After breakfast, we walk up to a hilltop to visit Namgyal Gompa. It is an important monastery in the village that serves as a local court. After visiting the gompa, we head towards Tingkhar. It is the last village that lies northwest of Lo Manthang. The village has about 40 houses. The villages resemble those of the Tibetan villages. We can even notice the dominance of the Tibetan Buddhist religion and culture in this place. Tonight, we return back to our guesthouse in Lo Manthang. (Inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

  • AccommodationGuesthouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
11

Day 11 Fly over Mustang region in a Helicopter - 1 hour

Early in the morning, after breakfast, a helicopter will pick you up from the Lo city. As the helicopter flies and makes a round over the region, you can enjoy some stunning views of the distinctive landscapes. The helicopter will drop you at the Pokhara airport. You can also enjoy some scenic views of Pokhara city and Phewa Lake as you fly over. Upon arrival, you will be escorted to a hotel in Pokhara. For the rest of the time, you can spend your time exploring some places around Pokhara. Tonight, we stay at a hotel in Pokhara. (Inclusive of breakfast)

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast Included
12

Day 12 Fly to Kathmandu (1400m/4578ft) - 30 minutes

Concluding our trip, we take a flight back to Kathmandu from Pokhara airport. The flight will offer some wonderful views of the mountains as well. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. Tonight, we stay at a hotel in Kathmandu. (Inclusive of breakfast)

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast Included
13

Day 13 Final Day - Departure

Before a few hours of your scheduled flight, you will be transferred to the international terminal of Tribhuwan International Airport. (Inclusive of Breakfast)

  • MealsBreakfast Included

Want something more personal?

Our team can customize this trip perfectly for your pace, budget, and specific interests.

Customize Trip

Cost Breakdown

What's included

All the services mentioned in the cost breakdown are included in 13 days Upper Mustang Heli Return Trek price.

  • Airport pick-up/drop-off facility
  • All ground transportation during the trip
  • Flight to and from Pokhara
  • Flight to Jomsom
  • Helicopter ride from Mustang to Pokhara
  • Meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Accommodation in a three-star category hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Accommodation in guesthouses during the trekking journey
  • Trekking permit
  • Entry fee to national parks, heritage sites, and other places.
  • A professional English-speaking guide and a porter (one porter for two clients)
  • First aid kit
  • Insurance for support crew members and their other costs

What's not included

  • Travel insurance.
  • Nepal entry visa fee: You can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (A multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying the US $ 50 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying the US $ 125. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos
  • International airfare.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Personal refreshment expenses - soft drinks, hard drinks, mineral bottled water, cigarettes, chocolates, etc
  • Utility expenses like telephone, electricity for charging, internet, laundry services, etc
  • Tips for support crew members of your trekking team

Select Departure

Select your preferred date. (Trip privately with your own group)

March 2026

Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4

Real Experiences

View All Reviews

Best trekking experience ever!

Incredible from start to finish! Our ABC trekking with World Alpine Treks exceeded all expectations. The landscapes were jaw-dropping, and the team’s expertise made every step worthwhile. Our guide Deepak was knowledgeable and endlessly kind, and all our porters were a constant source of strength and positivity. This trip has truly enriched our lives, and we can’t recommend this team enough!

C

Claire H

Nov D, 2024

Seamless Adventure to Annapurna Base Camp with World Alpine Trek

Our trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) with World Alpine Trek was beyond amazing. From the moment we booked, Mr. Rabin provided all the info we needed quickly and clearly, which made us feel at ease right away. Everything was organized perfectly, including backup plans for any hiccups.

Mr. Deepak, our guide, was the true highlight. He was calm, professional, and never rushed us. He encouraged us to walk at our own pace, soak in the views, and reminded us that it was our holiday, so no need to stress! Every day, he would tell us when we’d eat, where we’d sleep, and always had a Plan B ready. It was like he knew our concerns before we even voiced them. Plus, the porters Mr. Amrit and Pramote were incredibly friendly and supportive, keeping us going even when the weather turned.

The accommodations were fantastic. In Kathmandu, the hotel was spacious, comfy, and conveniently close to Thamel. On the trail, the lodges were lovely—often with great views (unless it was raining or foggy!). Definitely bring layers, as the weather can change quickly, and good rain gear is a must!

Despite constant rain toward the end and flight delays, we never felt worried. The team handled everything with such ease that we felt completely carefree.

Lastly, big thanks to Dinesh my last EBC guide for introducing us to World Alpine Trek. His recommendation made all the difference, and I can’t recommend this company enough for a memorable ABC trek!

Thank you to everyone at World Alpine Trek, especially to Mr. Deepak, Dinesh, Amrit, Pramote and all the team members. We are James, New Jacky, and Yo, and we truly appreciate the wonderful experience!

T

ThePetrichor

Oct D, 2024

Great ABC Trek Experience

My sincere thanks to the team of World Alpine Treks, without their help I would not have been able to complete the ABC trek. The guides and porters were professional, friendly and thoughtful. I was in bad condition due to a cold during the trek, but because of their care and help along the way, I was able to complete the trek safely. Highly recommend World Alpine Treks to anyone thinking of trekking in Nepal.

C

Clair H

Dec D, 2023