12-Daagse Himalaya Avontuur: Paardrij-expeditie in Mustang, Nepal

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, guests will be warmly welcomed and transferred to the hotel. Spend the day exploring Kathmandu at your own pace, getting a feel for the city’s lively atmosphere and rich culture. Rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Full day sightseeing in Kathmandu

Visit some of Kathmandu’s most iconic UNESCO sites, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Bouddhanath, and Pashupatinath. In the evening, witness the spiritual Pashupati Aarati ceremony.

Day 3: Drive to Bandipur and sightseeing (1,030 m, 4-5 hours drive)

Travel to the charming hilltop town of Bandipur, known for its preserved cultural heritage and stunning mountain views. Explore the village, interact with locals, and enjoy the serene environment.

Day 4: Drive to Pokhara and sightseeing (822 m, 3-4 hours drive)

Continue the journey to Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city. Enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake and visit the World Peace Pagoda, which offers panoramic views of the Annapurna range.

Day 5: Fly to Jomsom (2,720 m) and horse ride to Kagbeni (2,810 m, 3-4 hours, moderate ride)

Take a scenic morning flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, the gateway to Mustang. Meet the horse and guide before riding to Kagbeni, a historic village at the entrance to Upper Mustang. The ride follows the Kali Gandaki River, with strong winds and rough terrain, requiring balance and control over the traditional Mustang saddle. Explore Kagbeni’s ancient streets and monasteries.

Day 6: Horse ride to Jhong village (3,500 m, 4-5 hours, moderate ride)

Ride from Kagbeni to Jhong, a peaceful village rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture. The journey takes you through stunning landscapes with eroded cliffs and caves. The route has some steep ascents, demanding steady riding skills. spend the night experiencing the simple yet beautiful village life.

Day 7: Horse ride to Muktinath (3,800 m, 6-7 hours, challenging ride)

A long but rewarding ride takes you to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. The trail becomes more rugged with rocky sections, testing both rider and horse. Visit the temple, famous for its 108 water spouts and eternal flame. Enjoy the serene spiritual atmosphere and panoramic mountain views.

Day 8: Explore Thorong La Pass (5,416 m, 5-6 hours, tough ride)

Set out on an exciting ride to Thorong La Pass, one of the world’s highest navigable passes. The climb is steep, requiring precise control over the horse, as the thin air and loose terrain add to the challenge. The rewarding views of Annapurna and the Dhaulagiri ranges make it worthwhile. Return to Muktinath for the night.

Day 9: Horse ride to Lubra village (3,500 m, 4-5 hours, moderate ride)

Leave Muktinath and ride to Lubra, one of the last remaining Bon villages in Mustang. Discover the ancient Bon religion and visit the local monastery. The ride includes both downhill and flat sections, making for a more relaxed pace compared to previous days.

Day 10: Ride to Jomsom via Marpha (2,670 m, 7-8 hours, moderate ride)

Ride through stunning landscapes to Marpha, a beautiful village known for its apple orchards and traditional architecture. The trail is mostly downhill, requiring careful navigation on the rocky paths. explore Marpha’s whitewashed buildings and try the famous apple brandy. Continue to Jomsom for the final night of the horseback adventure.

Day 11: Fly to Kathmandu via Pokhara and farewell dinner

Fly back to Pokhara and then to Kathmandu, enjoying one last look at the Himalayas from above. Spend the day at leisure before a special farewell dinner, celebrating the journey through Mustang.

Day 12: Departure

Enjoy a relaxed morning before transferring to the airport for departure. Take home unforgettable memories of the horseback adventure through one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich regions.