Flight Information
This tour includes two domestic flights:
- Kathmandu to Pokhara (Day 1)
- Pokhara to Kathmandu (Day 7, mid-day)
Each flight lasts approximately 25–30 minutes and offers spectacular views of the Himalayas. These are fixed-wing aircraft flights and operated by trusted domestic airlines in Nepal.
Important Tips:
- Arrive at the domestic terminal at least 1 hour before departure.
- Baggage allowance on domestic flights is typically 15 kg (10 kg checked + 5 kg hand carry). Extra baggage can be paid for at the airport.
- Flights are weather-dependent, especially during monsoon or winter seasons, so we advise adding buffer days before and after the tour.
Nepal Visa Information
All travelers (except Indian nationals) require a visa to enter Nepal, which can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu or from a Nepalese embassy/consulate abroad.
Visa on Arrival Fees:
- 15 Days: USD 30
- 30 Days: USD 50
- 90 Days: USD 125
Requirements:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date of arrival
- One passport-sized photo (recent)
- Visa fee in cash (preferably in USD)
Luxury Holidays Nepal will assist you in providing the necessary documentation for permits, but visa must be arranged individually upon arrival or prior to travel.
Packing Essentials
For the Upper Mustang Overland Tour, although trekking is minimal, you will be traveling through remote high-altitude regions with varying temperatures. Proper packing ensures comfort and preparedness.
Clothing:
- Lightweight, breathable clothes for daytime
- Thermal base layers and insulated jackets for cold mornings/nights
- Windproof and waterproof outerwear
- Comfortable pants/trousers (no jeans during travel days)
- Warm hat, sun hat, gloves, scarf
Footwear:
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots (ankle support recommended)
- Flip-flops or sandals for evening/lodges
Accessories & Gear:
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- High SPF sunscreen and lip balm
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Personal toiletries and a small towel
- Power bank and universal travel adapter
- Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
Recommended Extras:
- Personal medications and basic first aid items
- Snacks, energy bars, or dry fruits for remote stretches
- Small daypack for daily essentials
- Travel insurance document, passport copies, and printed itinerary
Sleeping bags, duffel bags, and trekking maps will be provided by Luxury Holidays Nepal.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory for all participants of this tour. As the itinerary includes travel through remote, high-altitude regions like Upper Mustang, your insurance must cover:
- Medical emergencies and treatment
- High-altitude evacuation (by helicopter if necessary)
- Trip cancellations and delays
- Baggage loss or theft
- Flight disruptions due to weather
Please ensure your insurance is valid for the entire duration of your Nepal trip and includes coverage up to at least 4,000 meters (13,123 ft). You will be required to provide your insurance details before the trip begins.
Health and Physical Fitness
This is a moderate-altitude overland tour with no long trekking days, making it suitable for travelers with average fitness levels. However, you will still reach elevations of up to 3,800 meters (Muktinath), so it's essential to be aware of potential altitude-related issues.
Important Tips:
- Stay well-hydrated and avoid alcohol in higher regions.
- Travel at a relaxed pace to help with altitude adjustment.
- Inform us of any pre-existing health conditions, especially respiratory or cardiovascular issues.
- Consult your doctor about AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) prevention if concerned.
Luxury Holidays Nepal provides a comprehensive medical kit and ensures that all guides are first-aid trained and experienced with altitude-related care.
Weather Conditions
The climate along the route varies significantly due to the altitude and terrain. Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, making it accessible even during the monsoon season (June–August).
General Weather Overview:
- Spring (Mar–May): Mild days and cool nights; ideal for travel with clear skies and blooming landscapes.
- Summer/Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Dry in Mustang, but humid in Pokhara/Kathmandu. Roads may be dusty.
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): The best time for this tour; clear skies, great visibility, and pleasant temperatures.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold temperatures in Mustang; some lodges may have limited services. Travel is still possible with warm gear.
Always carry layered clothing, as temperatures can shift drastically between day and night, especially in high-altitude areas like Lo Manthang and Muktinath.
Cultural Considerations
Upper Mustang is a region steeped in Tibetan Buddhist traditions, and respecting local customs is essential during your visit.
Key Points to Keep in Mind:
- Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious objects.
- Walk clockwise around chortens (stupas), mani walls, and prayer wheels.
- Remove shoes before entering monasteries or homes.
- Dress modestly, especially in villages and sacred sites—avoid shorts and sleeveless tops.
- Avoid touching people on the head or pointing your feet toward religious icons.
- Do not disturb monks during prayers or ceremonies.
Engaging respectfully with locals adds depth to your experience and helps preserve the cultural integrity of Mustang.
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is a customary and appreciated practice in Nepal's tourism industry, especially for guides, drivers, and support staff.
Recommended Tipping (Per Person):
- Trekking Guide: USD 8–12 per day
- Driver: USD 5–8 per day
- Hotel/Lodge Staff: A small tip of USD 1–2 per night is appreciated
- Porters (if used): USD 6–8 per day
Tipping is not mandatory, but a kind gesture to acknowledge the hard work and hospitality provided throughout the tour. You can tip individually or hand over a group tip through your guide at the end of the trip.
Safety & Security
Luxury Holidays Nepal prioritizes your safety with experienced staff, reliable vehicles, and strict adherence to responsible travel protocols.
Safety Measures Include:
- Government-licensed and trained trekking guides
- Regular vehicle inspections and skilled drivers for high-altitude roads
- Medical kit carried at all times
- Altitude-aware itinerary to prevent AMS
- 24/7 customer support during the tour
While Mustang is a remote region, it is generally very safe for tourists. However, always keep your valuables secure, follow guide instructions, and avoid wandering off alone in unfamiliar areas.
Currency and Money Matters
The official currency in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Most expenses during the tour are covered, but you’ll need cash for personal expenses, tips, and optional purchases.
Money Tips:
- Bring small denominations (NPR 100, 500) for use in rural areas.
- ATMs are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but not in Upper Mustang.
- Exchange currency at licensed exchange counters or banks in Kathmandu.
- Carry some USD or EUR as backup, especially for emergencies or exchange in major cities.
Credit cards are accepted at high-end hotels in cities but are not usable in remote areas. We recommend carrying at least NPR 10,000–15,000 in cash during the Mustang portion of the trip.
Language and Communication
Nepali is the official language of Nepal, but in Upper Mustang, Tibetan dialects are commonly spoken, reflecting the region’s deep cultural ties to Tibet.
Communication Notes:
- Your guide will speak fluent English and act as a translator throughout the trip.
- In remote villages, locals may not speak English, but they are warm and welcoming.
- Basic phrases like “Namaste” (Hello) and “Dhanyabad” (Thank you) go a long way in showing respect.
Mobile network coverage is limited or unavailable in parts of Upper Mustang. However, your guide will remain in communication with the company for safety and coordination.
Transportation
All ground transportation for this tour is arranged in private, comfortable vehicles provided by Luxury Holidays Nepal.
Included Transport:
- Private car/van transfers between the airport and hotels.
- Domestic flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara (round-trip).
- 4WD private jeep for the entire overland journey from Pokhara to Upper Mustang and back.
The vehicles are well-maintained, equipped for rugged terrain, and driven by professional, licensed drivers experienced in high-altitude Himalayan roads.
Electricity and Charging
Electricity is available throughout most of the tour, though supply can be limited or inconsistent in remote areas of Mustang.
Important Details:
- Standard voltage is 220V, and plugs are typically Type C, D, or M (European and Indian-style).
- Teahouses and lodges in Upper Mustang offer limited charging hours, often in the dining area.
- Some places charge a small fee for device charging, especially in remote villages.
We recommend bringing:
- A universal travel adapter
- A power bank (10,000 mAh or more)
- Extra camera batteries or solar chargers if needed
Staying connected is easier in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but you should expect limited or no internet access during parts of the Mustang leg.
Festivals and Public Holidays
Nepal is a land of vibrant festivals, and Upper Mustang in particular hosts several culturally significant events rooted in Tibetan Buddhism.
Key Festivals to Know:
- Tiji Festival (May): A sacred 3-day masked dance festival celebrated in Lo Manthang, depicting the triumph of good over evil. This is the most iconic time to visit Upper Mustang.
- Dashain and Tihar (October–November): Major Hindu festivals observed nationwide, especially in Kathmandu and Pokhara, during which government offices and some services may be closed.
Traveling during festivals enhances the cultural experience but may result in permit delays or slower logistics, so planning buffer days around major holidays is advised.
Food and Dining
While on the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour, your meals are carefully arranged to ensure comfort, hygiene, and taste—whether you're in city hotels or remote lodges.
Dining Highlights:
- Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are provided during the Mustang journey.
- Meals in teahouses include local Nepali and Tibetan dishes, such as Dal Bhat, momo, thukpa, and noodle soups.
- In Pokhara and Kathmandu, you can find diverse cuisine options, including Nepali, Indian, Continental, and Asian dishes.
- Vegetarian and vegan options are available throughout the trip—please inform us of dietary restrictions in advance.
Filtered or boiled water is provided, and bottled water is available for purchase. Avoid drinking untreated tap water.
Cancellations and Weather-Related Changes
Travel in the Himalayas is highly dependent on weather, especially for domestic flights and high-altitude road conditions.
Cancellation Policy:
- If weather affects domestic flights (Kathmandu–Pokhara), Luxury Holidays Nepal will provide alternative travel arrangements (e.g., by road) when possible.
- Jeep travel in Mustang can continue during most weather conditions due to the region’s rain shadow climate, but road delays may occur in extreme cases.
- For canceled flights or forced changes, the client is responsible for any additional accommodation or transportation costs not covered in the itinerary.
- If the trip is canceled by the company due to unavoidable conditions, Luxury Holidays Nepal’s refund or reschedule policy will apply.
We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers trip interruption, delay, and cancellation due to weather or natural events.
Altitude and Acclimatization
Even though this is an overland jeep tour, the route ascends to elevations of up to 3,800 meters (Muktinath). Travelers should be aware of possible mild altitude symptoms such as headache or fatigue. The itinerary is designed for gradual gain, but a rest day in Lo Manthang aids acclimatization. Diamox (altitude medication) can be brought in consultation with your doctor.
Photography Etiquette
The landscapes and culture of Upper Mustang are incredibly photogenic. However, be respectful when photographing local people, monasteries, or religious ceremonies—always ask permission. Drones are restricted and require special permits; inquire in advance if you wish to bring one.
Wi-Fi and Connectivity
Internet is limited or unavailable in most Upper Mustang villages. Some lodges may offer paid Wi-Fi or satellite-based connections, but speed and reliability are not guaranteed. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, connectivity is strong. SIM cards with data packages (e.g., Ncell or NTC) can be purchased in Kathmandu.
Environmental Responsibility
Upper Mustang is a fragile ecosystem with limited infrastructure. Please help preserve the environment by:
- Carrying a reusable water bottle
- Avoiding plastic waste
- Using eco-friendly toiletries
- Respecting local customs and wildlife
Luxury Holidays Nepal promotes sustainable travel practices and encourages guests to leave a positive impact.