upper mustang helicopter tour​

upper mustang helicopter tour​

Trip Overview

Are you ready for an exhilarating experience flying over the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, combined with the joy of trekking through charming villages set against rolling hills? If so, the Upper Mustang Heli Trek is your ideal adventure.

Once a forbidden kingdom, Upper Mustang opened to travelers in 1992. This classic Himalayan trek takes you to a remote area, making it perfect for adventure enthusiasts. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views, explore ancient monasteries, discover sky caves, and visit several villages.

As you navigate this rugged terrain, you’ll be captivated by the stark beauty of barren cliffs and rocky trails. The remote region offers a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant Buddhist culture and traditions of the Mustang area.

We invite you to seize this opportunity and book the Upper Mustang Heli Trek with us. Are you ready for the adventure?

Major Highlights

  • Scenic Flights: Experience the stunning beauty of the Himalayas with flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then from Pokhara to Jomsom, allowing you to admire the majestic mountain ranges from above.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area: Trek through the dry, rugged terrain of the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal’s largest protected region, home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare species such as snow leopards and Himalayan blue sheep, making it a paradise for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
  • Lo Manthang: Explore the walled capital of Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang, rich in Tibetan culture and architecture. Immerse yourself in the history and traditions of the area as you visit monasteries, caves, and traditional villages.
  • Unique Landscapes: Marvel at Mustang’s dramatic landscapes, characterized by barren, desert-like scenery, deep canyons, eroded cliffs, and the iconic red cliffs that define this region.
  • Breathtaking Views: Enjoy mesmerizing views of the towering Himalayas, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Mustang Himal as you traverse the area.
  • Helicopter Ride: Experience the excitement of a helicopter ride from Lo Manthang, taking in remarkable views of the Upper Mustang’s unique landscape.
  • Leisure in Pokhara: After your trek, unwind with a relaxing boat ride on the tranquil waters of Phewa Lake, followed by leisurely exploration of Pokhara’s charming streets.

Route Overview

Here’s a quick summary of the Upper Mustang Heli Trek route. Upon your arrival, our representative will greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport. We’ll then fly to Pokhara and spend the night there.

The next day, we’ll take a flight to Jomsom, followed by a trek to Kagbeni. From Kagbeni, we’ll hike through Chhuksang, Samar, Geling, Ghami, and Tsarang, leading us to the Lo La pass, where we’ll enjoy spectacular views of Northern Mustang and the village of Lo Manthang. After soaking in the scenery, we’ll continue our hike and reach Lo Manthang.

We’ll spend a day exploring Lo Manthang, visiting three monasteries: Jhampa, Thupchen, and Chhoeda.

The following morning, we’ll take a helicopter back to Pokhara, then fly to Kathmandu to conclude our trip.

How Challenging is the Trek?

The Upper Mustang Heli Trek presents a moderate challenge, influenced by factors such as altitude, weather, and individual fitness levels. Most of the trek occurs above 3,000 meters, making altitude sickness a potential concern. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, headache, nausea, and fatigue. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and gradual ascent are crucial to minimizing these risks.

The trek also involves navigating remote, rugged terrain, featuring dry landscapes with steep trails and high mountain passes. However, it remains manageable for trekkers with a reasonable fitness level and prior experience.

Best Time for Upper Mustang Heli Trek

Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, making it relatively dry with less rainfall compared to other parts of Nepal. The best times for the Upper Mustang Heli Trek are during autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May), which are considered peak trekking seasons in Nepal.

In autumn, expect stable weather with clear skies, mild temperatures, and minimal rainfall, providing excellent visibility and breathtaking views of the mountains. Similarly, spring offers favorable conditions, with blooming rhododendrons and clear skies, enhancing the region’s natural beauty.

We hope you enjoyed this overview of our package. If you have any questions or need further information about the trek, please don’t hesitate to email us. We’re here to help organize a fantastic trip for you!

 

Explore Upper Mustang by Helicopter in Just 12 Days

Skip the trek and soar into Nepal’s ancient walled kingdom. Discover Lo Manthang, sky caves, and Himalayan vistas on this exclusive adventure!

Itinerary

Your journey begins upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by our representative. After clearing customs and immigration, you’ll be transported to your hotel in the city. Take this opportunity to rest and acclimatize, or explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, filled with rich culture, history, and delicious cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely evening and prepare for the exciting trek ahead.

After breakfast, you’ll catch an early morning flight to Pokhara, a scenic city known for its stunning lakes and mountain views. The flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, setting the tone for your adventure. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings. If time permits, take a stroll along Phewa Lake or visit the nearby International Mountain Museum before resting for the night.

Today, you’ll take a short flight to Jomsom, a town situated in the Kali Gandaki Valley. Upon landing, you’ll begin your trek to Kagbeni, a picturesque village that serves as a gateway to Upper Mustang. The trek lasts around 3-4 hours, allowing you to soak in the stunning landscapes along the way, with views of the surrounding mountains and unique rock formations. Once you reach Kagbeni, explore its ancient structures and the fascinating blend of Tibetan and Nepalese culture before settling in for the night.

After breakfast, you’ll continue your trek from Kagbeni to Chhuksang, which will take approximately 4-5 hours. The trail leads you through arid landscapes dotted with traditional villages and terraced fields. Along the way, you may encounter friendly locals and their livestock, providing a glimpse into everyday life in this remote region. Upon reaching Chhuksang, enjoy the peaceful ambiance and take some time to relax, savoring the breathtaking views around you.

Today’s trek from Chhuksang to Samar will take about 3-4 hours. As you walk, you’ll ascend through beautiful valleys and rocky trails, passing by ancient monasteries and unique rock formations. The landscape begins to change as you gain altitude, revealing the stark beauty of Mustang’s terrain. Upon reaching Samar, known for its stunning scenery and welcoming atmosphere, you’ll have the chance to explore the village and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Today’s trek to Geling will last approximately 5-6 hours. The trail takes you through a beautiful landscape characterized by vibrant colors and unique geological formations. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to expansive views of the valleys and mountains. Geling, your destination, is a charming village known for its traditional Tibetan culture. Once you arrive, take time to relax and appreciate the serenity of the surroundings, and perhaps visit the local monastery.

Your journey continues with a trek from Geling to Ghami, lasting about 5-6 hours. The path will lead you through a series of stunning landscapes, including colorful rock formations and deep canyons. Ghami is famous for its impressive chortens and ancient ruins, making it a perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture. After settling in, take a moment to explore the village and enjoy the tranquility of this remote area.

Your trek to Lo-Manthang, the walled capital of Upper Mustang, will take around 3-4 hours. The path ascends gradually, leading you to stunning viewpoints overlooking the unique landscape of the region. Lo-Manthang is rich in Tibetan culture and history, with ancient monasteries and traditional architecture. Once you arrive, take time to explore the village and immerse yourself in the fascinating culture of the Mustang region.

Today is dedicated to exploring Lo-Manthang and its surroundings. You’ll have the opportunity to visit several significant monasteries, including Jhampa, Thupchen, and Chhoeda, each rich in history and architectural beauty. Engage with local residents to learn about their traditions and way of life. This exploration day allows you to fully appreciate the cultural heritage of Upper Mustang before continuing your journey.

After breakfast, you’ll embark on an exhilarating helicopter ride over Lo-Manthang and the stunning landscapes of Mustang. From the sky, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and the unique terrain of the region. Once you arrive in Pokhara, you can relax and reflect on your incredible adventure. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the serene environment of Pokhara.

Today, you’ll take a morning flight from Pokhara back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to relax or explore any sites you may have missed earlier in the trip. You can visit local markets, sample traditional Nepali cuisine, or take a stroll through the historic streets of the city. This day offers a perfect opportunity to soak in the last moments of your Nepal experience.

On your final day, you’ll have some free time to relax or do some last-minute shopping. Our representative will assist you with your check-out and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. As you leave Nepal, take with you unforgettable memories of your adventure in the majestic Himalayas and the rich culture of Upper Mustang. Safe travels!

Cost Included

  • All ground transportation by private vehicle including airport transfers.
  • Three nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
  • Two night accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Pokhara
  • Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu with a tour guide and all temples/monuments entrance fees
  • Round trip flight from Pokhara to Jomsom and Jomsom to Pokhara including departure taxes
  • Full board meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
  • Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek
  • An experienced English-speaking (trekking guide), porter to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
    Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bag, Nepal Hiking Team duffel bag, and trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)
  • All necessary paper work and permits (ACAP, Special trekking permit), please bring 3 passport size photos for permit
  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • All government and local taxes

Cost Excluded

  • Travel insurance
  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa: 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 US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.)
  • Cold drinks, water, snacks and other personal expenses
    Hot shower during the trek
  • Personal trekking equipments
  • Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers

Booking Form

USD $1200pax