Upper Mustang was closed to outsiders until 1992 and still feels like it. This twelve-day expedition rides the full length of the Kali Gandaki, passing Marpha’s orchards and Jomsom before the blacktop ends at Kagbeni and the high-desert trail begins. From Samar the route climbs over the Taklam La and Dajori La passes to the walled city of Lo Manthang, with a full day inside its monasteries and the sky caves of Chhoser.
The return runs back across the plateau to Muktinath, Tatopani’s hot springs and a rest day in Pokhara. A support 4×4 with spares, fuel and a mechanic rides with the convoy throughout, and the Restricted Area Permit is arranged before you land.