Overland Manang & Upper Mustang

This Self Drive Road Trip to the Forbidden Upper Mustang & Manang is an adventurous trip for explorers; who want to experience the Upper Mustang region within a short period. Exploration and travel should never stop for anyone, traveling is a time to discover great wonders around and Jeep Safari to Upper Mustang is one of the more accessible and easy ways to do this. If you are short on time, you can still enjoy the same spectacular views with the help of a four-wheeler.  The magnificent barren landscapes are almost unreal, giving you a glimpse of history, rich ancient caves, monasteries, and archaeological sites, Like Lo-Manthang a medieval reminder of what lived before us.

Highlight

•1650 Kms drive from Lucknow to Gorakhpur.
•Drive through the beautiful landscape of Nepal.
•Experience mini Tibet in Nepal.
•Visit the picturesque areas including magnificent barren landscapes ancient
caves, century old monasteries and many other archaeological sites.
•Experience the Himalaya views from its backyard.
•Visit the Hot water spring in Tatopani
•Journey through the Kaligandaki George, the world deepest.
•Take a tour in the beautiful city of Pokhara.

Altitude of place of stay

• • Siddarthnagar – 110 Meters
  • Pokhara – 882 Meters
  • Kalopani – 3500 Meters
  • Samar – 3600 Meters
  • Lo-Mangthang – 3840 Meters
  • Tatopani- 1200 Meters
  • Besishar – 1440 Meters
  • Pissang – 3500 Meters
  • Manang – 3500 Meters
  • Bandipur – 880 Meters

Day 1 | Lucknow to Siddarthnagar ( Nepal ) ( 329 Kms / 8 Hrs )
We start our drive from Lucknow, you will have to arriva a day before the start of the drive in Lucknow. The drive starts from the pre-decided venue to Siddarthnagar via Ayodhaya from Sonali border we will enter Nepal after clearing customs formality. Overnight stay at Siddarthpur in Nepal.

Day 2 | Siddarthnagar to Pokhara ( 180 Kms )
Morning start the drive to Pokhara, Pokhara is an pictures town at 884 meters above sea level and is an ideal vacationer’s paradise. With its crystal-clear lakes, magnificent views of the Annapurna Mountain Range, and bustling but quaint lakeside Bazar, it is a major tourist attraction. Upon arrival at Pokhara check in to the hotel and after resting for a while free for the sightseeing tour.

Day 03 | Drive Pokhara to Kalopani ( 125 Kms )
After an early breakfast, leave Pokhara and drive towards Beni (70 KM) on the Baglung Highway. This section of the drive provides fantastic mountain vistas, picturesque terraced farmlands, and an opportunity to walk on one of Nepal’s famous suspension bridges. From Mal Dhunga, the road is unpaved and dusty with potholes in several places. Unpaved, gravel rough road poses a real challenge for drives and makes it more difficult with the occasional river crossings. Ascend gradually through the Kali Gandaki gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. There is a continuous change in the topography with every twist and turn until Tatopani.

Day 04 | Kalopani to Samar ( 61 Kms )
After breakfast drive to Samar, after getting the permits for Upper Mustang Area at the check post.
Overnight stay at Samar.

Day 5 | Samar to Lo-Manthang (3,840 m) (68 Km) 5Hrs.
After breakfast drive to Lo-Manthang. Lo-Manthang served as the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Mustang, which survives as the Kingdom of Lo or “Upper Mustang”. Lo Manthang was founded in 1380 by Ame Pal, who oversaw construction of the city wall and many of the still-standing structures in the early 15th century. The monarchy officially ceased to exist on October 7, 2008 by Nepali Government order. The last king (raja or gyelpo) is Jigme Dorje Palbar Bista (born c. 1933), in the direct line of the historic monarchy dating back 25 generations to 1380. The population includes ethnic Lhobas.  Upon arrival at Lo-Manthang we check in to the lodge and rest of the evening is free to relax and explore around the kingdom of Lo-Manthang.

Day 6 | Drive around Lo-Manthang.
After a leisurely breakfast, we get ready for the days adventure. Today we are going to visit one of the most interesting sites of the pre human settlement in this unexplored valley and famously known   Caves of Chhoser and magnificent landscape and Nymphu monastery built on the cliffs. On our way back we can also visit the Namgyal village and monastery. As you approach the Chhoser village, you could see numerous caves in the front of the cliff that once use to be the home of the pre historic Loba’s and the monks.  After the sightseeing tour, we back to the city of Lo, for hot lunch. Rest of the day at leisure or free to explore the walled village.

Notes – The major Temples inside the walls are Champa Lakhang (God House) which houses the massive 45 ft. statue of Maitreva, the future Buddha, the red Thugchen Gompa with several large images of Sakyamuni, Avalokitesvara and Maitreya, and the Chyodi Gompa of the Sakya sect which has several monks in residence and is the site of the annual Mani Rimdu festival in many which is referred as ‘tegi’ in Lomanthang. They are all supposed to have been built in 1420. Despite the apparent squalor of Lo Manthang, the city is prosperous and maintains a strong sense of community. Though the people call themselves Lobas- people from Lo, they are very much Tibetan and practice a sophisticated culture and economy.

Day 7 | Lo-Manthang – Tatopani  (92 Km) 5 Hrs
After a leisurely breakfast ride down to Kagbeni (2800 m) which is the gateway to Upper Mustang. Kagbeni at an altitude of 2840m is a fascinating medieval village with closely packed mud brick houses, dark alleys, and imposing chortens lying along the trekking route and is the gateway to Upper Mustang. This village also boasts a Monastery. From Kagbeni continue to drive to Jomsom and on to tatopani. “Tato” means ‘hot’ and “Pani” means ‘water’, a name earned courtesy of the hot springs and is a popular place for traveller to relax and dip their weary bodies in the natural hot springs. After stop at Tatopani continue with drive to Pokhara the quiet lakeside town.
Overnight at tatopani.

Day 8 | Tatopani to Besishar ( 186 Kms )
At leisure drive from to Pokhara to Beshishar the gateway to Manang. With the subtropical atmosphere and deciduous backwoods, Besisahar is the passage to the celebrated Annapurna Range journey.

Day 9 | Besishar to Manang.
After breakfast, we will continue our journey around 34 km to Jagat. It is an undulating climb on a dusty road. we will hike a bike through a steep, rocky, trail crossing the villages. we will continue riding throughout the Marsyangdi river bank for Manang.

Wonderful experience of subtropical forest mixed with arid barren landscapes, lots of old Buddhist monasteries, rich culture, as well as the breathtaking beauty of the Manang and Marsyangdi Valleys and high peaks Himalayas. They also say a piece of heaven falls in the Manang district. you can expect amazing scenery throughout the tour. we will be traveling 63 k of offroad trails at an altitude of 3519 meters to Manang. you can expect amazing scenery throughout the tour. we will have an overnight stay in the guesthouse at Manang.

Manang village is a hidden treasure of Nepal. The high peaks around Mustang halt the rainy clouds to enter the territory of Manang which causes the low rainfall in this region. This is the barren land of Nepal, also known as the Desert of Nepal. It feels like heaven to be here, the astounding sceneries and local lifestyle consolidate more beauty to this rural land. Compared to other nearby regions, Manang is more wealthy due to the incredible natural resources, artifacts, herbs and gems, culture, and traditions.

There are many monasteries in the Manang region. The influence of ancient Tibetan Buddhism practices and devotion can be seen in this place. Manang is the real heaven of Nepal. The local settlement, mountains, and glaciers, the surrounding make an unforgettable experience in this wonderland.

Day 10 | Manang
Day free for leisure in Manang, explore the area. After breakfast, Explore the pristine Gangapurna Lake and Manang Bazar. Gangapurna lake is very close to Manang, which takes around an hour to walk. The lake is attractively blue because of the sedimentation of water from Gangapurna Glacier. It says beautiful views come only after a hard walk, the walk from Manang to this stunning Gangapurna Lake and surrounding views prove it. Back to Manang for lunch. Evening free at leisure.
Overnight at Manang

Day 11 | Visit Manang, After Lunch Drive Manag to Pisang ( 17 Kms )
After breakfast, Explore the pristine Gangapurna Lake and Manang Bazar. Gangapurna lake is very close to Manang, which takes around an hour to walk. The lake is attractively blue because of the sedimentation of water from Gangapurna Glacier. It says beautiful views come only after a hard walk, the walk from Manang to this stunning Gangapurna Lake and surrounding views prove it. Back to Manang for lunch and ride back to Bhartang 25 Km via the same route. Bhartang is a small village before Chame. At 2650 m above sea level and with the magnificent fusion of numerous mountain peaks, glaciers, passes, valleys, and human settlement make it a wonderful place.

Day 12 | Pisang to to Bandipur ( 129 Kms )
After breakfast, we will continue our journey. we will be traveling offroad trails along with some amazing scenery and the welcoming nature of the sherpas who are the local residents. after traveling the whole day, we will have an overnight stay in Bandipur. It is one of Nepal’s most beautiful yet astonishingly less traveled hilltop settlements, historically Bandipur was an important stop on the India–Tibet trade route for centuries. Overnight at the old Inn resort, the 18th-century buildings are well-preserved and motorized. Vehicles are not allowed in the village; it is nice and quiet.

Day 13 | Bandipur to Gorakhpur ( 260 Kms )
Drive back to Indian, Tour ends and group disperses on reaching Gorakhpur.

• Authentic Local Food
• Historical Temple Visit
• Boating and Rafting
• Hiking in the mountains
• Meditation and yoga
• Visit local market
• Photography
• Off-road Trail Drive

Meals Included in the Tour – Breakfast & Dinner

Breakfast – Our daily breakfast will be at the hotels where we stay.

Dinner – Our daily dinner will be at the hotels where we stay. Dinner in Pokhara is not included in the package as there are lots of good local restaurants in Pokhara where you can go out and enjoy a meal.

Type of Stay 

Day 1 : Siddharthnagar : Hotel
Day 2 : Pokhara – Hotel
Day 3 : Kalopani – Guesthouse
Day 4 : Samar – Guesthouse
Day 5 : Lo – Mathang –  Hotel
Day 6 : Lo – Mathang –  Hotel
Day 7 : Tatopani – Hotel
Day 8 : Beshishar – Hotel
Day 9 : Manang – Hotel
Day 10 : Manang – Hotel
Day 11 : Pissang – Agro Farm
Day 12 : Bandipur – HotelSTARTS AND END POINT OF TOUR
The Tour starts from Lucknow and enters Nepal from Sonali border.
The Tour ends back in Indian after crossing the Sonali border  crossing in Gorakhpur.

For those coming by flight to Kathmandu ( KTM ) , can reach Pokhara for the start of the trip and in the end can again take a flight from Kathmandu.Notes

• Manang & Mustang are High altitude area.
• Good Physical fitness is required for this tour,
• Please see your physician before planning for the trip if you have any existing ailments.

Including the package cost

1. Accommodation for 12  Nights accommodation in Hotels / Guesthouses on double share basis of rooms in standard rooms.
2. Breakfast and Dinner for duration of tour.
3. Accompanying team with lead vehicle from Lucknow to Gorakhpur ( additional Backup vehicle for large groups )
4. First Air with Medical backup with oxygen (O2) & AMS pack.
5. Accompanying Professional & Experienced Guide throughout the tour.
6. Guidance to best places for Meals at Pay N Eat ( if any).
7. Vehicle assistance / towing where ever required.
8. Accompanying Nepal Govt authorized Sherpa Guide including the cost for his meals, accommodations and daily allowances.
9. Special Permit to visit Upper Mustang fee of US $ 50.00 per person per day .(Subject to change without prior notice)
10. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee of approx. US $ 30.00 per person.(Subject to change without prior notice)
11. Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) fee of US $ 10.00 per person.(Subject to change without prior notice)

Not including the cost

1. 1. Stay for extra days if any ( we can make bookings for you )
   2. Flights to the destination.
   3. Lunches for duration of the trip.
   4. Extra food Like Starters /Lunch /Dinner all over Pay & Eat ( if Any outside the venue)
   5. Self Drive vehicles
   6. Insurance for vehicles entering Nepal.
   7. Midway snacks.
   8. Any damage/fine/ cost.
   9. Any damages /fine/ Insurance
   10. Toll Tax if any.
   11. Fuel for your vehicles.
   12. Custom duty for Vehicles entering Nepal from India.
   13. Nepal VISA for foreigners ( Indians do not need a VISA but must carry a valid identity proof in original with them )
   14. Any kind of personal expenses or optional tours, extra meals, starters (Alcoholic, Mineral, Soft Drinks, Aerated) etc.
   15. Extra guide fee, Camera & Video fee ,Tips, Insurance, Laundry, Phone
   16. Insurance for or against accidents, loss of life, theft etc.
   17. Any cost arising out of unforeseen circumstances like damage accruing from land blocks, bad weather etc.
   18. Any medical expenses incurred during the trip or travel insurance
   19. Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Costing

Note
– In case of road block / land slides or any natural calamity if the trip has to be extended for an few days additional charges will be applicable for accommodation , guides / vehicle and permits. This amount will be collected on spot by the accompanying guide.

If you are planning to be driven around for the Upper Mustang tour your can choose from a variety of vehicles from the basic Mahindra Bolero to Mahindra Scorpio or old Toyota Land cruisers all of which are 4×4 vehicles and suitable for the drive to Mustang. The drivers are all locals and highly experienced for offroad driving in the mountainous terrain.

For Standard Tours the vehicle will be Mahindra Bolero – 04 pax in vehicle

For Deluxe Tours the vehicle will be – Toyota Land Cruiser or Mahindra Scorpio or Nissan SUV – 03 Pax in vehicle

Things to carry – some esencials 

Clothing

1:   1 / 2 Jeans
2:   1 / 2 Cargo pant
3:   2 / 4 Full sleeve shirt
4:   3 / 4 T- Shirts
5:   1 / 2  Sweatshirt / Sweater / Fleece
6:   1 Warm Jacket
7:    Slippers / Sandals
8:    Night suit.( if u use )
9:    Raincoat / Poncho
10:  Cap / Hat / Warm Cap
11:  Warm Gloves
12:  Warm Muffler
13:  2 / 3 Cotton Socks and Warm Socks
14:  Towel  ( lightweight )

Miscellaneous / personal items

1:   Sunscreen Lotion
2:   Lip Guard / Care
3:   Body Lotion
4:   Paper Soap
5:   Face Wash / Soap / Shampoo / Oil / Deo / Comb etc.
6:  Sunglasses
7:  Toothpaste / Toothbrush
8: Binocular
9: Pocket/Swiss knife
10 : Reading materials
11 : Camera
12 : Personal Medicine
13 : Water Bottles

For Your 4X4 / SUV / MUV

Before starting check your 4X4/SUV/MUV ( Very Important )
(Engine oil, all cables, all nut and bolts, tire-tube, Coolant, Brake, Belts, Headlights, complete services if you need etc.)
1: Puncture Kit / Tire Tube/ MUST
2: Basic Tool Kit /MUST
3: Feviquick / M-Seal/ Duct tape
4: Air Pump
5: Jack / MUST
6: Vehicle Papers (Registration / Insurance / Pollution) MUST
7 : Jerrycan 20 L ( Must )

Offbeat Holidays What to expect PDF