Max. Elevation
Rara–Dolpo–Mustang Trek
Overview
Trans-Himalayan Odyssey: Mugu, Dolpo, and Mustang
Designed for experienced trekkers seeking both exploration and authenticity, this journey connects forgotten valleys, ancient trade routes, and towering mountain passes in one unforgettable traverse.
Lake Rara, Nepal’s largest and most beautiful alpine lake, sets the tone for the expedition. Surrounded by pine forests and snow-capped peaks, its tranquil waters reflect a world far removed from modern life. From here, the trail moves into the Mugu Valley, a region rarely visited by trekkers, where traditional villages preserve centuries-old lifestyles shaped by isolation and altitude. Stone houses, terraced fields, and warm hospitality offer a rare glimpse into rural Himalayan life.
As we enter Dolpo—often referred to as the “Hidden Country”—the landscape becomes stark, mystical, and deeply spiritual. This trans-Himalayan region is renowned for its ancient monasteries, chortens, and caves that whisper stories of Tibetan Buddhism and Bon traditions. Timeless villages appear frozen in history, connected by high trails once used by traders crossing between Tibet and Nepal. Walking through Dolpo is like stepping into another era, where culture and nature remain profoundly intertwined.
The journey continues eastward toward Mustang, passing through a series of spectacular high mountain passes, many rising above 5,000 meters. These demanding crossings reward trekkers with sweeping views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, vast plateaus, and dramatic desert-like valleys sculpted by wind and time. Each pass marks a transition—not only in geography, but also in culture and landscape.
The final stages descend toward Jomsom, where this remote expedition links seamlessly with the classic Annapurna Circuit. Having crossed more than five high passes and traversed multiple regions, the trek concludes with a profound sense of achievement. This is more than a trek—it is a true Himalayan odyssey, blending adventure, cultural discovery, and high-altitude exploration across some of Nepal’s last great wildernesses.
Itinerary
Expand AllUpon your arrival in Kathmandu, our local team warmly welcomes you at the airport. You will then be escorted to the hotel, where you can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation. The itinerary includes a briefing about the trek's progress and presentation, followed by leisure time. If you arrive in the morning, you'll have the entire day at your disposal. This can be used for rest or for those interested in exploring the surroundings freely. It's an ideal chance to experience Nepalese culture and indulge in the local culinary delights.
- Airport pickup &Transfer to hotel
- Final altitude: approximately 1,350 m
- Meals: Dinner
- Accommodation: one night in the hotel
Have breakfast and then you have the whole day to explore the best Kathmandu Sightseeing spots with your guide. You can visit and explore one of the most famous Shiva temples, Pashupatinath, recognized as the monkey temple; Swyambhunath, the largest Stupa in the world, also called Boudhanath Stupa; and finally the Royal Palace, Kathmandu Durbar Square. The next day, you will begin your trek on the Annapurna Circuit, so you have to check your equipment to make sure that you are ready for your adventure and climb. Have dinner and stay overnight in the same hotel in Kathmandu
- halfday tour
- Final altitude: approximately 1,350m
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: night in the hotel
An approximately one-hour flight with superb views of the Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Nepalgunj is located in the Terai plain, not far from the Indian border.
- by private vehicle,
- Plane: approximately 45 minutes
- Final altitude: approximately 280 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a lodge or simple hotel
We depart for the small airport of Talcha, situated near the pristine waters of Lake Rara. Upon arrival, we set out on a scenic hike of approximately three hours to reach our campsite, where the kitchen and porter teams will already be established and awaiting us.
The trail follows the shoreline of Lake Rara, offering superb views of its crystal-clear, blue-green waters. Along the way, we pass through a beautiful forest of walnut trees, holm oak, and conifers. Some sections of the path may be slightly marshy, adding to the wild and unspoiled character of the landscape.
Important note: If weather conditions prevent the scheduled flight, it may be possible to reach Talcha by helicopter, subject to improved weather and a sufficient number of participants to share the cost. For this contingency, we kindly ask you to bring USD 350 in cash.
- by private vehicle, by plane (40 minutes)
- walking: approximately 3 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +600 m / -635 m
- Final altitude: approximately 2710 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
We descend into the Gamghadi Valley, reaching Gamghadi, the district capital of Mugu. From here, we follow a steep trail that runs alongside the Mugu Karnali River, gradually making our way to the village of Lumsa. Upon arrival, we set up camp in the schoolyard, offering a simple yet authentic overnight experience in the heart of the local community.
- Walking duration: approximately 6 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +600 m / -1350 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 1900 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
We hike toward the beautiful village of Chala, renowned for its finely carved wooden houses and traditional communal flour mill. Along the trail, it is common to encounter mule caravans transporting supplies to remote villages, as well as herds of goats grazing peacefully on the hillsides.
As we continue, we pass cultivated terraces growing millet, corn, and amaranth, and in some areas, cannabis plants, reflecting the region’s traditional agricultural practices. After a break in the village of Mangri, we proceed deeper into the dramatic Mugu Karnali Gorge, eventually reaching Bhale, where we conclude the day’s walk.
- Walking Duration: approximately 5 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +670 m / -340 m
- Final altitude: approximately 2230 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
We depart Bhale, following the Mugu Karnali River beyond its confluence with the Namlang Nadi, a river flowing directly from the glaciers of the Kanjirowa Himal. From here, the trail enters a dramatic river gorge, surrounded by rugged Himalayan landscapes.
Along the way, we may encounter caravans of dzos and mules carrying salt from the remote highlands of Mugu, a reminder of the region’s ancient trade routes. We then visit the beautiful yet abandoned monastery of Tiyar, a place rich in history and quiet spiritual atmosphere.
After the visit, we continue to a scenic riverside location, where we set up camp along the banks of the river for the night.
- Walking duration: approximately 5 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +310 m / -225 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 2600 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
We continue ascending along the Mugu Nadi, gradually reaching Shilenchaura, the traditional starting point for caravan routes in this remote region. Depending on the opening dates of the Tibetan border, a few local tea shops may be operating, offering a welcome stop and a glimpse into the rhythms of cross-border trade.
- Walking Duration: approximately 5 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +950 m / -370 ma
- Final Altitude: pproximately 2950 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a lodge or tent
We venture into a narrow gorge, following a stream upstream in search of the only possible campsite for the night. This wild and rugged section of the journey takes us onto the paths carved by Yarsa Gumbo harvesters—without their seasonal passage, there would be virtually no visible trails in this remote landscape.
Surrounded by raw nature and silence, we establish camp at the end of the day in a truly isolated setting.
- Walking Duration: approximately 6 hours+
- Elevation Gain / Loss: 1290 m / -370 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 4050 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
The ascent is gentle, following wide, grassy slopes that make the climb relatively easy. We reach the Chyargo La Pass (5,150 m) fairly quickly, and if the skies are clear, we are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
At the summit, we pause to place prayer flags, in honor of local tradition, before beginning our descent into a valley that gradually narrows. As we drop lower, we return to a wild, untamed landscape, where the air grows more humid, and the environment feels alive with the sounds and scents of the high Himalaya.
- Walking Duration: approximately 7 hours+
- Elevation Gain / Loss: 1150 m / -1230 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 4020 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
There are two routes to reach Bhijer from Silenchaura: the Gorge Route and the Pass Route. Trail conditions can change rapidly due to landslides, bridge damage, or new constructions, so we will advise participants on the preferred route based on the most up-to-date information. As a general rule, we take the Pass Route.
After passing a campsite beside a wet stream, we cross via a log bridge and begin our first climb of the day. The trail rewards us with numerous panoramic views at each ridge crossing before descending to the next stream. The final section follows the stream upstream, allowing us to set up camp as close as possible to the Yala La Pass, ready for the following day’s adventure.
- Walking Duration: approximately 7 hours
- Elevation gain/ Loss: +1000 m / -1230 m
- Final Altitdue: approximately 4020 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
The second pass is significantly more rocky, requiring a climb up a large cirque before reaching the Yala La Pass (5,420 m). Prayer flags flutter everywhere, marking this momentous point—we have finally crossed into Dolpo.
From the pass, we descend to the stream below and follow its course, passing the village of Pung Kharka. The day concludes at the last possible campsite in this remote, high-altitude region, surrounded by the raw beauty of Dolpo.
- Walking Duration: approximately 7 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +850 m / -760 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 4640 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
Although we have entered Dolpo, the first major challenge of this route awaits: the Nyingma Gyanzen La Pass. We begin by descending the stream briefly before ascending a steep, narrow valley. The climb leads us to the pass and a nearby summit, where the surrounding views are truly breathtaking.
From there, we follow a scenic ridge offering exceptional panoramas, with the village of Kuwagaon—the northernmost settlement in Dolpo—visible in the distance. The day concludes with a descent to the village of Pho, a well-earned rest stop in this remote and rugged landscape.
- Walking duration: approximately 8 hours
- Elevation Gain /Loss: +1120 m / -1640 m
- Final Altittude: approximately 4090 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
A day to finally relax and breathe. For those seeking a bit of adventure, you can make a short trek to the hidden gompa nestled in a remote valley near the village. Though it is close, reaching it requires a bit of effort, and Laurent will be happy to guide you to this peaceful and secluded spot.
- Walking duration: approximately 3 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +300 m / -300 m
- approximately 4090 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
On the map, distances appear deceptively short, but Dolpo’s rugged terrain quickly reminds us otherwise. Today, we head toward a beautiful bridge in the valley before tackling a steep ascent to the Yambur La Pass. Depending on the season, the trail may offer the welcome bonus of fresh gooseberries along the way.
The descent that follows is gentle, giving us time to admire the village of Bhijer—a true marvel, particularly at this time of year.
- Walking Duration: approximately 7 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +1450 m / -1650 m
- Final altitude: approximately 3850 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
This morning, we wandered through the village, visiting the school and the monastery before climbing the hillside to reach Nang La Base Camp, set in a beautiful and lively kharka. Along the way, we stopped at the valley’s newly established cheese factory to sample fresh local cheese—a delightful and much-appreciated treat.
- Walking Duration: approximately 3 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: + 700 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 4350 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
We cross the Nang La Pass at 5,375 meters, taking in breathtaking views over nearly all of Upper Dolpo. From here, we descend toward Saldang, leaving behind the trail that leads to Marang—another route in itself. Our descent follows terraced slopes, bringing us to the outskirts of the Saldang Gompa. Here, we pause to admire the remarkable work of the painter Norbu, who has completely restored the monastery’s murals, preserving its vibrant cultural heritage.
- Walking Duration: approximately 7 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +800 m / -1450 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 4350 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
We cross the Naga Khola to begin our ascent to the village of Khomas, one of the rare settlements in Dolpo built on flat ground. The climb is gradual, winding through a rocky landscape. After passing a small mountain pass, the village comes into view, with its red gompas lining the right-hand side. Our final task is to find the keys, usually kept in one of the last houses at the lower edge of the village.
- Walking duration: approximately 5 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +750 m / -600 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 3620 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
We leave Khomas and ascend to a small pass that offers sweeping views of the terraced fields of Shimen. A pleasant descent brings us into the village of Shimen, after which we follow the Panjyang Stream upstream to Mendo, a key crossing point for caravans arriving from Tibet. As the Chinese government controls the border opening dates, seeing these caravans depends as much on timing and luck as on the trail itself.
From Mendo, we continue along the path to our campsite overlooking the stream, surrounded by the wild and remote beauty of Upper Dolpo
- Walking Duration: approximately 6 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +600 m / -710 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 4030 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
Villages appear one after another as we make our way toward Tinkyu (or Tinje), the birthplace of Tenzing Norbu, the renowned Himalayan painter of The Childhood of a Chief. Below the village, a vast terrace immediately draws the eye—once an airstrip used by Khampa rebels during the uprising that followed Tibet’s annexation by China.
We then descend to the valley floor and continue on to Taraka Sumdo. At this time of year, the canvas tea shops scattered along the route are usually still in operation, offering welcome stops for rest and refreshment.
- Walking duration: approximately 5 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +350 m / -150 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 4240 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
We continue our trek up the wide Keheing Khola valley, then follow the Larkyang Khola valley to reach Lajar Sumna Camp, situated at the foot of the Mola La Pass. This beautiful green plateau is dotted with grazing yaks, as well as flocks of sheep and goats, creating a serene pastoral scene.
The trail here is gentle, with small hillocks providing panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Along the way, we meet the nomads who share this highland grazing land. Perched on a promontory, Lajar Sumna offers an exceptional vantage point to observe the surrounding encampments and the rhythms of life in this remote region.
- Walking duration: approximately 6 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +490 m / -150 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 4690 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
We climb gently through wide alpine pastures to reach a pass that offers distant views of the glacial mountains marking the border with Mustang. From here, we can trace the rest of the route, which winds eastward between the mountain ranges toward the base of Araniko Chuli.
For today, however, the trek is limited to the morning, leaving ample time to explore the fortified town of Chharka Bhot and meet the local villagers. In recent years, a few small shops have appeared, and the town has become an important market hub for buying and selling yaks, offering a fascinating glimpse into traditional Himalayan commerce.
- Walking Duration; approximately 6 hours
- Elevation gain/ Loss: +400 m / -780 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 4400 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
Shortly after Chharka Bhot, we cross the Barbung Khola and then the Thasang Khola via two new bridges, making this route much more accessible. We follow the Thasang Khola, traversing vast yak pastures and navigating the austere gorges carved by the river.
Our trail then climbs back to alpine meadows, where we camp at the foot of the pass we will tackle the next day. Be prepared to wear sandals frequently, as the river occasionally overflows its banks, at times even submerging the path along its right bank.
- Walking duration: approximately 7 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +750 m / -200 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 4870 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
The ascent of Nirwa La is gentle, following an easy slope that leads onto a grassy plateau. The second pass, however, tells a very different story—steep, demanding, and seemingly endless. Yet at 5,555 meters, the effort is richly rewarded. From the summit, a breathtaking panorama unfolds: the Mukot Himal and Dhaulagiri ranges dominate the horizon, while almost the entirety of Mustang spreads out below us.
We descend via broad switchbacks across a scree slope into the Lhanhimar Khola valley. By early afternoon, crossing the Jungbenley La, also known as Kok La (5,125 meters), feels almost effortless in comparison, before dropping down jet-black shale slopes toward an unexpected sanctuary of trees—yes, trees! It had been fourteen days since we had last seen any.
Sweeping views open over the Kyalungpa Khola valley, the villages of Ghok and Sangta, and, in the distance, strikingly colorful sections of the eastern Mustang plateaus. Mouflon sheep roam the steep slopes all around us. Pure bliss.
- Walking Duration: approximately 7 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +780 m / -1340 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 4320 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
From our camp, we descend toward the “gateway” to Dolpo, following a trail carved into the cliff face—at times barely a meter wide. After crossing the Kyalungpa Khola via a suspension bridge, we continue along a flat Nepalese path that leads to the village of Sangda, having negotiated two deep valleys along the way.
In Sangda, camping space is limited, so we continue south, crossing two small passes to reach a broad, flat plateau—a true caravanserai for mule and yak caravans. The atmosphere here is lively and animated, though the night may be more or less restless depending on the number of caravans stopping for the night.
- Walking duration: approximately 6 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +900 m / -900 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 3760 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a tent
The penultimate day of this great adventure follows the newly constructed track between Jomsom and Sangta, which we use for much of the day. From camp, we cross a small pass at 4,400 meters before rejoining the old trail. Beyond this point, the historic path is no longer maintained by local communities and has become unsafe, so we continue along the track.
We then descend to 4,300 meters, where we turn left toward alpine pastures below, enjoying magnificent views over Mustang and Tilicho Peak. The trail crosses a striking tufa limestone landscape punctuated by caves, then passes through sheep-grazing areas before dropping directly into the Kali Gandaki Valley.
The day ends in Kagbeni, a village that has preserved much of its traditional Mustang character despite the presence of several modern lodges
- Walking duration: approximately 6 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +160 m / -1530 m
- Final Altitude: approximately 2840 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a lodge
The final stage of our trek leads us over one last small pass, followed by a rewarding detour to the village of Lupra. Here, we visit a Bön gompa and immerse ourselves in its distinctive spiritual atmosphere. From Lupra, a scenic balcony trail winds above the Panda Khola, offering sweeping panoramic views as we gradually descend into the valley.
Our journey ends along the dusty track into Jomsom, bringing to a close this remarkable adventure through Upper Dolpo and Mustang.
- Walking duration: approximately 5 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +450 m / -550 m
- Final altitude: approximately 2740 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a lodge
We fly from Jomsom to Pokhara, and then onward to Kathmandu, followed by some free time to relax or explore.
Important note: This flight is not guaranteed, as it is subject to weather conditions and seat availability. Since 2017, Tara Airlines has been the sole operator on this route, which can make securing seats challenging. In the event of a flight cancellation, the journey may be replaced by an 8–10 hour drive along a rough and uncomfortable road.
- Transport: By private vehicle/By plane
- Approximate duration: Flight: 1 hour
- Meals: Breakfast included, Lunch and dinner not included
- Accommodation: Overnight stay in a hotel
Safety Day: This day may be used during the trek or taken as a free day in Kathmandu.
Due to unforeseeable circumstances—such as weather conditions, health or fitness of participants, road conditions, traffic, or other cases of force majeure—the itinerary may need to be adjusted. If necessary for the smooth and safe running of the trip, the guide may modify the program at any time. The guide remains the sole judge and guarantor of participants’ safety.
- Meals: breakfast – lunch (not included) – dinner (not included)
- Accommodation: overnight stay in a hotel
A free day in Kathmandu to relax, explore, or do some last-minute shopping. In the afternoon or evening, transfer by private vehicle to the international airport for your departure.
- Meals: Breakfast included, Lunch and dinner not included
Note:
If you have a private group and prefer a personalized experience, we can organize a custom trip tailored to your requirements and group size, running it any day you choose.
Plan a Private TripIncluded & Excluded
Included Points
AIRPORT PICK-UP & DROP : Airport - Hotel transfer – Airport (Pick Up and Drop).
ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU : 3 nights sharing a twin bedroom at the hotel (3 Star category) in Kathmandu on a bed and breakfast basis.
WELCOME DINNER : One Welcome Dinner in a tourist standard restaurant in Kathmandu with the Office’s Staff.
PERMITS : All necessary paperwork: Trekking Permit. Annapurna conservation Area project Area (ACAP)
SPECIAL PERMIT : Rara – Dolpo – Mustang trek Restricted Permit
MAP : Dolpo Region Trekking map.
MEMBER TRANSPORTATION : Flight as per itinerary (Kathmandu- Nepaljung- Talcha and Jomsom- Pokhara and Kathmandu)
MEMBER LUGGAGE : Up to 15 Kg per member for personal baggage during the trek, carried by porters.
FOODS & LODGING : 3 meals a day (BLD; including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation on a sharing basis in a tea house/camping during the trek.
CAMPING EQUIPMENT : All necessary camping equipment for the trek.
GUIDE LEADER (SIRDAR) : Government-licensed Guide (English-speaking) during the Trek. Leads the entire team, manages safety and logistics.
ASSISTANT GUIDE : supports the leader and helps clients on the trail and setup the camp.
COOK : prepares all meals on camping treks.
KITCHEN BOY : Assists the cook with food prep and carrier kitchen equipment and food.
PORTER : Carries trekking gear and supplies for the trekking group.
STAFF INSURANCE : Insurance for all Nepalese staff during the trek
STAFF SALARY & ALLOWANCE : : All staff wages, equipment, meals, accommodation, and insurance for guides and porters.
MEDICAL KIT : Comprehensive medical kit.
Excluded Points
INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE : International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
NEPAL VISA FEES : The Nepal Visa fee is US$ 40 per person for 30 days (to be applied for 60 days, USD$ 100).
LUNCH & DINNER : Lunch and dinner during the stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara (also in case of early return from Trekking than the scheduled itinerary).
EXTRA NIGHTS IN KATHMANDU & POKHARA : Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara. In case of early arrival or late departure, or early return from Trekking (for any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
INSURANCE : Travel and high-altitude insurance, accident, medical and emergency evacuation.
PERSONAL EXPENSES : Telephone calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beer, and any alcoholic beverages.
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT : Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking Gears, etc.
TOILETRIES : Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
FILMING : Special Filming, Camera, and Drone permit fee.
INTERNET SERVICE : Internet facilities during the trek is not included
TIPS : Tips for guides, porters, and staff.
EXTRA : Any other services or activities which are not mentioned in the itinerary. Any other item not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.
Trip Information
Rara- Dolpo- Mustang -Jomsom trek Details
Your guide, from your arrival in Kathmandu until your departure, is responsible for the success of your trip and oversees your team. Do not hesitate to ask him questions, respect his position as the team leader, and above all follow his advice! Often, your guide is the only English-speaking member of the team. In the mountains and, especially when traveling at high altitudes, your guide is responsible for the safety of the group. The instructions he gives and the remarks he makes to all participants must be carefully followed. The interest and safety of the trekking group must be preserved, even when it may be to the detriment of an individual member of the group.
Read MoreYour Nepalese team may consist of several people, each with different responsibilities. They are:
- The Guide Leader (Sirdar): is responsible for and leader of the whole team and is treated with respect by all. Often, he has earned his position by starting as a porter and rising through the ranks.
- The Assistant Guide: is actively helping clients under the leader’s direction and set camp.
- The Cook is responsible for all meals and is on a trek that doesn’t use lodges.
- The kitchen boy is an assistant to the cook. ( camping trek )
- The Porter: is the load carrier for the trekking group. As Nepal is a mountain country with few roads, porters are employed to carry loads. Compliance with regulations and common courtesy dictates the maximum weight carried and the minimum wage paid. Porters are provided with gear based on the routes they follow and with insurance for alpine treks.
Each trekker is allotted the following maximum weights per person:
- For Lodge (tea house) Accommodations Trek:15 kg maximum;
- Tent Camping Trek: 22 kg maximum; Expeditions/summit ascents: 20 kg maximum. The porters are given a premium wage for carrying loads over 30 kg.
Additionally, the Alpinist Club ensures that insurance is provided for the guide and porters. They are also equipped with specific gear for crossing high-altitude passe.
Accommodations in Kathmandu
In Kathmandu, you will be accommodated in a hotel. We use different hotels depending on availability. The two preferred hotels are:
- Hotel Ramoda: Located in the heart of Thamel, this hotel is ideal for walking the bustling streets of Kathmandu. The spacious rooms all have a bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. A fully equipped and active dining room is available for all meals, and the breakfast buffet offers a wide choice of foods. The hotel offers currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
- Sampada Garden: Located just 20 minutes on foot from Thamel and Durbar Square, this hotel is convenient for exploring Kathmandu. The rooms have all the necessary comforts for your stay: air conditioning, bathroom, and Wi-Fi. Breakfasts are served as a generous buffet. The hotel provides currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
Accommodation and Meals during the Rara–Dolpo–Mustang Trek
- Lodge Accommodation: During the Trek, you will stay in comfortable mountain lodges, sharing twin-bed rooms in some villages. All meals are freshly prepared by the lodge’s cooks and served in the communal dining room.
- Camping Accommodation: On camping sections of the trek, accommodation is provided in two-person tents. Breakfasts and evening meals are prepared by our kitchen team or local lodge cooks and enjoyed in the mess tent. Lunch is served along the trail as hot or cold picnic-style meals, depending on the day’s walking distance and availability of water.
Here is a typical one-day menu:
- Breakfast: eggs, toast or chapati, or Tibetan bread or pancakes, or pancakes, butter/jam, tea or coffee
- Lunch: a main course, tea or coffee
- Dinner: soup, main course, fruit (fresh or canned), tea or coffeDuring the trek, tea or coffee is served with meals. Two cups per person are included. Apart from these included menus, other drinks and foodstuffs will be at your expense.
- Water: Bring water-purification tablets (Hydroclovazone, Micropur, or similar) as advised by your guide. Purified water is sometimes available for refills. Mineral water can be bought in cities (not included), but we don’t recommend it due to its environmental impact
Physical level in Rara–Dolpo–Mustang Trek
This program is designed for those who exercise regularly, especially in endurance activities. You only need to carry a daypack with essentials. The trek lasts 30 days, with daily hikes of 6 to 7 hours and altitude changes between 4000 m and 5000 m. The Pass (5,150 m) often has snow later in the season.
Preparation for the Trek
Preparing for the trek requires several months of preparation with 4 to 6-hour walks every weekend for stamina and participating in a sport that requires short periods of high exertion.
Medical check-up
Being in good health is essential to fully enjoy your Alpinist Club trip. If your last medical visit was more than four years ago, please get another general physical exam and tell your doctor the nature of your trip (climate, altitude, difficulty, etc.). The altitude also has the effect of reviving dental problems or other chronic pain, so getting a dental checkup is also prudent. If you are undertaking a high-altitude expedition, we advise you to consult a mountain medicine specialist.
Acute Mountain Sickness
This trip takes place at high altitudes, so some people may experience altitude-related discomforts like headaches, loss of appetite, and swelling of limbs. Most of these symptoms usually go away within a few days, but sometimes they can develop into a serious illness: pulmonary or cerebral edema. There are no preventive drugs for AMS. Diamox diuretic is often effective for symptomatic relief, but you should first check with your doctor to verify that it is not contraindicated for you. Think about it before you go.
Safety During The Trek
Safety has always been our top priority at Alpinist. Our team of expert guides is dedicated to leading a fun and successful climb while ensuring safety remains uncompromised. We plan carefully, considering daily weather forecasts and paying diligent attention as we venture into high altitudes. Throughout the journey, we carry comprehensive medical kits, rescue equipment, and reliable radio and satellite communication gear.
Group size for the Rara–Dolpo–Mustang Trek
The group size is 2 to 10 participants to ensure a more personal experience, respect local communities, and keep the trip flexible. In special cases, the group size may be slightly increased if a last-minute participant wishes to join with friends or family. In this case, all services and trip conditions remain the same.
Camping Equipment Rara-Dolpo- Mustang Trek
All logistical equipment is provided, including individual tents at the base camp with mattresses, mess tent, shower tents, and toilet tents, as well as all collective and individual cooking equipment. At altitude, tents, stoves with gas cartridges, ropes, and anchors.
Personal Equipment for the trekking
Personal equipment is not provided, but a complete list will be shared later. We will refine the list with you during the preparation days and up until departure based on your questions.
High-altitude sleeping bags and quality down jackets are costly items you may not use often. We offer these specific items for rent during the expedition. You must return the equipment clean and in good condition, with a deposit required.
Security And Communication
We have at least one Iridium satellite phone for logistics, weather updates, and security. Participants may use it under certain conditions—please contact us for private use. All camps are connected by radio, with access for the expedition leader, participants, and high-altitude Sherpas. A hyperbaric chamber will be available at base camp, and a lighter essential pharmacy will be stocked at higher camps.
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FAQ's
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This is a challenging high-altitude trek designed for experienced trekkers. It includes multiple passes over 5,000 meters, long walking days, and remote terrain with limited facilities.
Yes. Parts of Dolpo and Mustang are restricted areas and require special trekking permits, which are arranged through a licensed trekking agency.
The best seasons are May–June and September–October, offering stable weather, clear mountain views, and safe high-pass crossings.
The full trek typically takes 30–40 days, depending on the route, acclimatization schedule, and side explorations.
This trek links Rara Lake, Mugu Valley, Dolpo, and Mustang in one journey, combining extreme remoteness, Tibetan culture, and multiple high Himalayan passes.
Yes. This trek is recommended for trekkers with prior experience above 4,000 meters and good physical fitness due to long days, high passes, and remote conditions.
The trek crosses several high passes, with the highest points reaching over 5,200 meters, depending on the chosen route.
Accommodation is mainly in basic teahouses and camping, especially in remote areas of Mugu and Dolpo where facilities are very limited.