10N-11D Horse Ride Expedition through Nepal’s Mustang Region

Your second day in Kathmandu offers an optional early morning mountain flight to Everest, an experience that promises stunning aerial views of the world’s highest peak and the surrounding Himalayan range. This one-hour flight is a photographer’s dream, with guaranteed window seats ensuring you capture the breathtaking vistas. After returning to your hotel for breakfast, you’ll embark on a full day of sightseeing in Kathmandu.

The day’s exploration begins with a visit to Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, a sacred site that offers panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley. Next, you’ll visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in Nepal, where the sight of pilgrims spinning prayer wheels and the sound of monks chanting create a deeply spiritual ambiance. The final stop of the day is Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal’s most important Hindu temple, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. Here, you’ll witness the Aarti ceremony, a ritual that involves chanting, incense, and the lighting of oil lamps, creating a mesmerizing and spiritual atmosphere that is truly unforgettable.

On the morning of Day 3, you’ll take a short but scenic flight to Pokhara, known as the gateway to the Annapurna region and one of Nepal’s most beautiful cities. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the tranquil beauty of Phewa Lake, where you’ll enjoy a serene boat ride. As you glide across the calm waters, surrounded by the reflection of the Annapurna range, you’ll feel a sense of peace and connection with nature.

After lunch in one of the lakeside restaurants, you’ll visit the World Peace Pagoda, a stunning monument located atop a hill overlooking Pokhara Valley. The pagoda offers panoramic views of the city, the lake, and the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal spot for reflection and meditation. The rest of the day is yours to explore the vibrant Lakeside area, where you can shop for souvenirs, enjoy local cuisine, or simply relax and take in the views.

Day 4 marks the beginning of your horseback riding adventure as you take a morning flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, the gateway to the Mustang region. The flight itself is an experience, offering stunning views of the mountains and valleys below. Upon arrival in Jomsom, you’ll meet your expert horse guide, who will introduce you to your horse for the journey ahead.

Your first ride takes you from Jomsom to Kagbeni, a village that serves as the gateway to Upper Mustang. As you ride along the Kali Gandaki River, you’ll be surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Mustang region, with its rugged terrain and towering peaks. Kagbeni is a village steeped in history and culture, with ancient architecture and a unique blend of Tibetan and Nepalese influences. After arriving, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the village, visit its monasteries, and interact with the local people, who are known for their warmth and hospitality.

On Day 5, you’ll continue your horseback journey from Kagbeni to Jhong Village, a ride that takes approximately 3-4 hours. The trail offers a mix of challenging terrain and stunning scenery, as you pass through landscapes marked by eroded cliffs, scattered caves, and the occasional sighting of local wildlife.

Jhong Village is a hidden gem in the Mustang region, offering a tranquil and authentic experience of village life. The village is known for its traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture, with beautifully preserved monasteries and a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. Staying overnight in Jhong, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, enjoy traditional meals, and experience the simplicity and serenity of life in Mustang.

Day 6 is one of the most spiritually significant days of your journey, as you ride from Chuksang to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The ride, which takes approximately 6-7 hours, offers a blend of adventure and spiritual discovery, with the landscape transitioning from arid desert terrain to more verdant surroundings as you ascend.

Muktinath is a place of profound religious importance, known for its 108 water spouts and eternal flame, which is believed to have been burning for centuries. The site offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. You’ll spend the night in Muktinath, allowing you to fully experience the spiritual energy of this remarkable destination.

Day 7 takes you to the highest point of your journey, as you set out on an extraordinary horseback ride to Thorong La Pass, one of the highest navigable passes in the world at 5,416 meters. This is a challenging and exhilarating ride, offering some of the most spectacular mountain views in the world.

As you ascend on horseback, you’ll be surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trail to Thorong La Pass is steep and demanding, but the rewards are immense, with breathtaking vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the pass is unparalleled, as you stand at one of the highest points in the world accessible by horseback.

This day is not only a physical challenge but also a spiritual and emotional journey, as you traverse a landscape that feels otherworldly in its beauty and remoteness. After spending time at the pass, taking in the awe-inspiring surroundings and capturing photographs of this unforgettable experience, you’ll return to Muktinath for the night. The descent offers a different perspective on the terrain you’ve just conquered, allowing for reflection on the incredible journey you’ve undertaken.

On Day 8, you’ll leave the sacred grounds of Muktinath and embark on a horseback ride to the tranquil and lesser-known Lubra Village. This day’s journey offers a gentler ride through the diverse landscapes of Mustang, providing ample opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty and quietude of the region.

Lubra Village is one of the few remaining Bon villages in Mustang, where the ancient Bon religion, predating Tibetan Buddhism, is still practiced. The village’s serene environment and its Bon monastery offer a unique cultural experience, different from the other Tibetan Buddhist influences you’ve encountered on the journey. In Lubra, you’ll have the chance to explore the village, interact with the local residents, and gain insights into their way of life. The overnight stay in Lubra provides a peaceful retreat, allowing you to unwind and absorb the cultural richness of this remote village.

Day 9 is a day of scenic beauty and cultural exploration, as you ride from Lubra Village to Jomsom, with a stop at the picturesque Marpha Village. The ride takes approximately 7-8 hours, taking you through some of Mustang’s most beautiful landscapes, from lush valleys to rugged terrains.

Marpha Village is renowned for its apple orchards, whitewashed buildings, and narrow cobblestone streets, offering a picturesque setting that feels like stepping back in time. The village is also famous for its apple brandy and dried apples, which you can sample during your visit. Marpha’s blend of traditional architecture and natural beauty makes it a highlight of the journey. After exploring Marpha, you’ll continue your ride back to Jomsom, where your adventure began. This return journey provides an opportunity to reflect on the experiences and memories you’ve created over the past days. Upon arrival in Jomsom, you’ll spend the night, celebrating the completion of your incredible horseback journey through Mustang.

On the morning of Day 10, you’ll bid farewell to the enchanting Mustang region as you catch a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, and then onward to Kathmandu. The flights offer a final chance to marvel at the dramatic landscapes of the Himalayas from above, providing a fitting end to your adventure.

Once back in Kathmandu, you’ll have time to relax and perhaps do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. In the evening, a special farewell dinner awaits, where you’ll have the chance to savor Nepalese cuisine and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed. This dinner is a time to celebrate the friendships made, the challenges overcome, and the memories that will last a lifetime.

Your final day in Nepal begins with a leisurely breakfast, giving you time to soak in the last moments of your stay in Kathmandu. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. As you board your flight home, you’ll carry with you the memories of an extraordinary journey through one of the most remote and culturally rich regions in the world. The Horseride Experience in Nepal is not just a trip; it’s a transformative adventure that offers a deeper connection with the land, its people, and their timeless traditions.