Mustang Teri La Pass Trek | Upper Mustang to Nar Phu Expedition

Mustang Teri La Pass

The Mustang Teri La Pass Trek is one of the most challenging and exclusive trekking expeditions in the Nepal Himalayas. This route serves as a high-altitude bridge between two of Nepal’s most fascinating restricted areas: Upper Mustang and the Nar Phu Valley. The journey begins by heading north from Jomsom into the ancient, walled city of Lo Manthang in Upper Mustang, exploring its rich Tibetan-Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, and striking, arid landscapes. From there, the route heads eastward into absolute wilderness, requiring a fully self-sufficient camping expedition. The crux of the trek is the crossing of the Teri La Pass (5,595m), a demanding and technical ascent that rewards climbers with profound isolation and sweeping views of the Damodar Himal and Annapurna ranges. Descending into the Nar Phu Valley, you encounter ancient, untouched villages before finally rejoining the Annapurna Circuit at Koto. This is a trek for the true adventurer seeking the ultimate Himalayan challenge.

Mustang Teri La Pass Trek landscape view

Signature Experiences

Expedition Highlights

Explore Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang.

Cross the formidable and rarely traversed Teri La Pass (5,595m).

Trek through two of Nepal’s most restricted and culturally pristine regions: Upper Mustang and Nar Phu.

Experience a true wilderness camping expedition in highly remote terrain.

Discover ancient cave dwellings, monasteries, and unique Tibetan-influenced cultures.

Enjoy spectacular, untouched views of the Annapurna and Damodar Himal ranges.

Trail Logs & Itinerary

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Fly to Jomsom and walk to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Enter the restricted area, trekking along the Kali Gandaki to the village of Chele. We explore ancient whitewashed villages with flat mud roofs, passing impressive chortens and long Mani walls. The unique Tibetan-Buddhist heritage of the former Kingdom of Lo is visible in every corner.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Cross several high passes, with the landscape becoming increasingly barren and colorful. The trail climbs over low passes, revealing panoramic views of the Mustang plateau and the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri ranges. The barren landscape is dotted with green oases of willow trees and barley fields.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Pass through traditional villages and see the longest mani wall in Mustang. An early, challenging start takes us toward the high mountain pass. Walking slowly and steadily, we climb through snow and scree to reach the summit, adorned with colorful prayer flags. The expansive views of neighboring valleys and giant peaks are absolutely spectacular before we begin our descent.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Trek past ancient chortens to the historically significant village of Charang. We walk through the arid, wind-swept landscapes of Mustang, characterized by striking red and ochre clay cliffs. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River bed, offering views of distant snow-peaks contrasting with the desert-like terrain.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Arrive at the walled capital of Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang. We explore ancient whitewashed villages with flat mud roofs, passing impressive chortens and long Mani walls. The unique Tibetan-Buddhist heritage of the former Kingdom of Lo is visible in every corner.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Explore the ancient monasteries and the royal palace in the city. The trail climbs over low passes, revealing panoramic views of the Mustang plateau and the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri ranges. The barren landscape is dotted with green oases of willow trees and barley fields.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Leave the main trail, heading east towards the Damodar Kunda trail. We trek along paths carved into sandstone cliffs, passing mysterious ancient caves. The stark beauty and silence of Upper Mustang create a unique mystical trekking experience.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Visit the incredible cave monastery of Luri Gompa. Today we explore the rich historical and cultural heritage of Kathmandu. We visit the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath on the banks of the Bagmati River, the ancient stupa of Boudhanath, and the hilltop Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), offering panoramic views of the city. We also complete trek briefing and permit preparations.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Ascend into the high altitude wilderness, setting up camp. We explore ancient whitewashed villages with flat mud roofs, passing impressive chortens and long Mani walls. The unique Tibetan-Buddhist heritage of the former Kingdom of Lo is visible in every corner.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Cross high ridges and descend into the Namta Khola valley. We begin our return journey, descending to lower altitudes. With every step, the air becomes thicker and warmer, and we walk through lush forests and traditional villages, reflecting on our incredible achievements in the high mountains while enjoying the easier hiking.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

A tough climb to the base of the pass, preparing for the crossing. We make our way to the base camp or high camp, stepping into a high-altitude wilderness surrounded by towering glaciers, ice falls, and massive rock walls. The air is cold and crisp, and the camp buzzes with the excitement of the upcoming summit push or pass crossing.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

The most challenging day, crossing the high pass and descending into the Nar Phu region. An early, challenging start takes us toward the high mountain pass. Walking slowly and steadily, we climb through snow and scree to reach the summit, adorned with colorful prayer flags. The expansive views of neighboring valleys and giant peaks are absolutely spectacular before we begin our descent.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Descend into the Nar Valley, arriving at the ancient village of Nar. We begin our return journey, descending to lower altitudes. With every step, the air becomes thicker and warmer, and we walk through lush forests and traditional villages, reflecting on our incredible achievements in the high mountains while enjoying the easier hiking.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Trek through the valley, enjoying the unique culture and landscapes. The trail climbs over low passes, revealing panoramic views of the Mustang plateau and the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri ranges. The barren landscape is dotted with green oases of willow trees and barley fields.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Head up the valley to the remote and fascinating village of Phu. We trek along paths carved into sandstone cliffs, passing mysterious ancient caves. The stark beauty and silence of Upper Mustang create a unique mystical trekking experience.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Spend the day exploring the village and the nearby Tashi Lhakhang monastery. We walk through the arid, wind-swept landscapes of Mustang, characterized by striking red and ochre clay cliffs. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River bed, offering views of distant snow-peaks contrasting with the desert-like terrain.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Begin the descent back down the valley. We begin our return journey, descending to lower altitudes. With every step, the air becomes thicker and warmer, and we walk through lush forests and traditional villages, reflecting on our incredible achievements in the high mountains while enjoying the easier hiking.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

A steep descent through narrow gorges to join the Annapurna Circuit at Koto. The trail climbs over low passes, revealing panoramic views of the Mustang plateau and the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri ranges. The barren landscape is dotted with green oases of willow trees and barley fields.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,595m

Long drive back to the capital, completing the epic journey. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

Mustang Teri La Pass Trek landscape view

Inclusions

Airport pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle.
Standard teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek.
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek.
An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trekking guide.
Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (TIMS, National Park Fees).
A comprehensive medical kit carried by the guide.
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu to celebrate the successful trek.

Exclusions

International flight airfare.
Nepal entry visa fee (obtainable on arrival at Kathmandu airport).
Travel and rescue insurance (mandatory).
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters).
Tips for guide and porters (customary but not mandatory).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to do this trek?

The best seasons are the pre-monsoon (Spring: March to May) and post-monsoon (Autumn: September to November). During these times, the weather is generally clear, offering the most spectacular mountain views and stable walking conditions.

Do I need to be highly fit or have previous trekking experience?

While previous experience is beneficial, it is not mandatory. You should have a reasonable level of physical fitness and be able to walk 5-7 hours a day over varied terrain. We highly recommend cardiovascular exercises (like running or cycling) a few weeks prior to your arrival.

What happens if I get altitude sickness?

Our itineraries are carefully designed with built-in acclimatization days. Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and carry a medical kit, including a pulse oximeter. If mild symptoms occur, the guide will monitor you closely and may advise resting. In severe cases, we will coordinate an immediate helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu.

What kind of food and accommodation can I expect during the trek?

Accommodation along the main trekking routes consists of 'teahouses'—local lodges that provide both food and a place to sleep. The rooms are generally simple, clean, and equipped with twin beds, foam mattresses, pillows, and blankets. Most teahouses have shared bathroom facilities, and hot showers are usually available for an extra small fee. As for food, the menus are surprisingly extensive! You can expect traditional Nepali meals like Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, and curries) which provides excellent energy for trekking. You will also find a variety of Western, Tibetan, and Indian dishes including pasta, pizza, noodles, soups, pancakes, and eggs. We highly recommend eating freshly cooked vegetarian meals at higher altitudes for better digestion.

Do I need comprehensive travel insurance for this trek?

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is strictly mandatory for all our trekkers. Your policy must cover high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000 meters depending on your specific route), medical emergencies, and most importantly, emergency helicopter evacuation. In the remote Himalayas, if you suffer from severe altitude sickness (AMS) or physical injury, a helicopter is the only way out, and these evacuations can cost several thousand dollars. Please ensure you carry a printed copy of your insurance policy with you, as our guides will need to verify it before the trek begins.

How do I access safe drinking water on the trail?

Staying hydrated is critical for acclimatization; you should aim to drink 3 to 4 liters of water every day. While you can buy bottled mineral water at lower elevations, we strongly discourage this to protect the fragile Himalayan environment from single-use plastic waste. The best and most sustainable method is to bring two reusable 1-liter water bottles (Nalgene or similar). You can fill these with tap or stream water and use water purification tablets or a SteriPEN. Alternatively, every teahouse sells boiled water which is 100% safe to drink and is highly recommended during the cold mornings and evenings.

Is there internet, Wi-Fi, and phone coverage on the mountain?

Yes, technology has reached the Himalayas! You can buy a local SIM card (Ncell or NTC) in Kathmandu, which provides decent 3G/4G coverage in the lower regions of the trek. As you climb higher, mobile networks become patchy or non-existent. However, almost all teahouses along the popular routes (like Everest and Annapurna) now offer Wi-Fi access for a small daily fee. In the Everest region, you can purchase an 'Everest Link' prepaid Wi-Fi card. Keep in mind that connection speeds are shared among many trekkers and can be slow, especially during bad weather, so it's a great opportunity for a digital detox!

How much cash should I bring, and are there ATMs on the trail?

The mountains operate almost entirely on a cash economy. While there are a few ATMs in major hubs like Namche Bazaar or Jomsom, they are notoriously unreliable, often running out of cash or suffering from network outages. You must withdraw enough Nepalese Rupees (NPR) in Kathmandu before starting your trek. Since your meals, accommodation, and permits are included in your package, you only need cash for personal expenses. We recommend budgeting around $15 to $20 USD (in local currency) per day to cover extras like hot showers, battery charging, Wi-Fi, snacks, tea, coffee, and tipping your guide and porters at the end of the trip.

What is the luggage allowance, and do porters carry all my gear?

If your trek involves a domestic flight (such as to Lukla or Jomsom), the strict weight limit is 15 kg (33 lbs) total per person, which includes both your checked duffel bag and your carry-on daypack. Our packages include porter service, with one porter assigned to carry the gear for two trekkers. Your porter will carry up to 20-25 kg total (10-12 kg of your gear). We provide you with a durable company duffel bag for this purpose. You will only need to carry your personal daypack (around 30-40 liters) containing your daily essentials: water, snacks, camera, sunscreen, rain gear, and warm layers.

What happens in the event of bad weather or flight delays?

Mountain weather in the Himalayas is notoriously unpredictable, and flights to remote airstrips like Lukla are operated strictly on visual flight rules (VFR). Even in peak seasons, flights can be delayed for hours or sometimes cancelled for consecutive days due to high winds or low visibility. If this happens, our team in Kathmandu will work tirelessly to reschedule your flight for the next available window. We highly recommend scheduling 1 or 2 extra 'buffer days' at the end of your trip in Kathmandu before your international flight home. In severe cases, chartered helicopters may be an option to bypass flight cancellations, but this comes at an additional cost usually covered by your travel insurance.