HONEST TRAVEL
TOURS AND EXPEDITION
TOURS AND EXPEDITION
Journey to Nepal's Last Forbidden Kingdom
Embark on an epic 4WD jeep adventure through Nepal's mystical Upper Mustang region, often called the "Last Forbidden Kingdom." This 12-day journey takes you through ancient trade routes, Tibetan-influenced villages, dramatic desert landscapes, and to the remote walled city of Lo Manthang. Experience a unique blend of Tibetan Buddhist culture, stunning Himalayan scenery, and comfortable jeep travel through one of Nepal's most restricted and fascinating regions.
| Day | Destination | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kathmandu | Arrival, Hotel Transfer |
| 2 | Kathmandu | Full Day Sightseeing |
| 3 | Bandipur | Scenic Drive, Heritage Stay |
| 4 | Tatopani | Drive, Natural Hot Springs |
| 5 | Kagbeni | Drive to Mustang, Village Exploration |
| 6 | Lo Manthang | Muktinath Visit, Arrive at Walled City |
| 7 | Lo Manthang | Full Day Exploration |
| 8 | Marpha | Return Drive, Apple Capital |
| 9 | Pokhara | Scenic Drive, Phewa Lake Kayaking |
| 10 | Pokhara | Full Day Sightseeing |
| 11 | Kathmandu | Scenic Flight, Cultural Dinner |
| 12 | Departure | Farewell, Airport Transfer |
Welcome to Nepal: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport where our representative will welcome you with traditional greetings. Transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in, attend a detailed tour briefing about your Upper Mustang jeep adventure. Rest and acclimate to the altitude. Evening at leisure.
Meals: Welcome Dinner Included
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Cultural Exploration: Full day exploring Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) for panoramic city views. Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square with its ancient palaces and temples. After lunch, visit the sacred Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest spherical stupas in the world. Prepare for your Mustang adventure.
Meals: Breakfast Included
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Scenic Mountain Drive: Early morning departure from Kathmandu. Drive through picturesque landscapes to Bandipur, a beautifully preserved Newari town. Enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas along the way. Explore Bandipur's medieval architecture, traditional houses, and vibrant culture. Evening stroll through the town's cobbled streets. Overnight in a heritage hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Included
Accommodation: Heritage Hotel in Bandipur
Drive Duration: 5-6 hours
Sunrise & Natural Springs: Early morning sunrise view over the Himalayas from Bandipur. After breakfast, drive to Tatopani ("Hot Water" in Nepali). Descend through deep river gorges and scenic landscapes. Arrive at Tatopani and relax in natural hot springs beside the Kali Gandaki River - perfect for soothing muscles after the journey. Overnight at a local lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Included
Accommodation: Lodge in Tatopani
Drive Duration: 4-5 hours
Gateway to Upper Mustang: Drive north along the Kali Gandaki River valley, the world's deepest gorge. Pass through dramatic landscapes transitioning to semi-arid desert. Visit Marpha village known for apple products. Continue to Kagbeni, the traditional gateway to Upper Mustang. Explore this ancient village with its medieval feel and Tibetan influence. Acclimatize to the higher altitude.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included
Accommodation: Lodge in Kagbeni
Drive Duration: 5-6 hours
Sacred Site & Forbidden Kingdom: Morning visit to Muktinath Temple, one of Nepal's most sacred pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists. See the 108 water spouts and eternal flame. Continue your jeep journey through spectacular desert landscapes with colorful rock formations. Arrive at the walled city of Lo Manthang, capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang. Check-in and rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included
Accommodation: Lodge in Lo Manthang
Drive Duration: 4-5 hours
Ancient Kingdom Discovery: Full day to explore the fascinating walled city of Lo Manthang. Visit the Royal Palace, three major monasteries (Thubchen, Chodey, and Jampa), and ancient cave dwellings. Experience the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture preserved for centuries. Option to take a short hike to nearby villages or viewpoints for panoramic photography. Evening interaction with local community.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included
Accommodation: Lodge in Lo Manthang
Return Journey & Apple Capital: Begin return journey with a drive back to Marpha. Enjoy different perspectives of the dramatic landscapes. Arriving in Marpha, explore this charming village known as the "Apple Capital of Nepal." Sample local apple brandy, cider, and other apple products. Walk through narrow stone paved streets lined with whitewashed houses. Relax and reflect on your Mustang experience.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included
Accommodation: Lodge in Marpha
Drive Duration: 5-6 hours
Scenic Drive & Lake Adventure: Morning drive from Marpha to Pokhara through beautiful Himalayan scenery. Descend from the dry Tibetan plateau to the lush greenery of Pokhara valley. Arrive in Pokhara, check into your hotel. Afternoon kayaking on Phewa Lake with stunning views of the Annapurna range. Paddle to the Peace Pagoda for sunset views. Evening at leisure in Lakeside.
Meals: Breakfast Included
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Drive Duration: 6-7 hours
Adventure Capital Exploration: Full day exploring Pokhara's attractions. Visit Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, and the International Mountain Museum. Take a boat ride on Phewa Lake (if time permits). Drive to Sarangkot viewpoint for panoramic Himalayan vistas (optional sunrise/sunset). Explore Lakeside area for shopping and dining. Relax after your adventurous Mustang journey.
Meals: Breakfast Included
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Scenic Flight & Celebration: Morning transfer to Pokhara Airport for flight to Kathmandu (25 minutes) with breathtaking mountain views. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel. Free time for last-minute shopping or optional sightseeing. Evening farewell Nepali cultural dinner with traditional music, dance performances, and authentic cuisine. Celebrate your successful Upper Mustang adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner Included
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Journey Ends: After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Our representative will assist with check-in procedures. Depart with unforgettable memories of Nepal's Last Forbidden Kingdom, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.
Meals: Breakfast Included
Thank you for choosing Honest Travel Tours. Safe travels and hope to welcome you back to Nepal!
| Season | Months | Price per Person | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak | Mar-Jun, Sep-Nov | โน2,32,000 | Best weather, clear mountain views |
| Shoulder | Dec-Feb | โน2,05,000 | Cool weather, fewer tourists |
| Closed | Jul-Aug | Not Available | Monsoon season, road conditions |
8% off for groups of 4 (full jeep)
12% off for bookings 120+ days in advance
15% loyalty discount
Mandatory for Upper Mustang access
Comfortable travel through rugged terrain
Medical kit and experienced guide
Pokhara to Kathmandu scenic flight
Watch our featured video and explore the tour route map to see the incredible journey through Nepal's Last Forbidden Kingdom.
Experience the unique landscapes, Tibetan culture, and adventure of Upper Mustang.
Vehicle: 4WD Mahindra Scorpio Jeep
Max Passengers: 4 per jeep
Road Conditions: Mixed paved and rough dirt roads
Highest Point: Lo Manthang (3,800m)
Acclimatization: Built into itinerary
Climate: Dry, desert-like in Mustang
Restricted Area Permit: Required
ACAP Permit: Required
TIMS Card: Required