Overview
Mustang is famous for Muktinath and Jomsom, but step just a little off that main route and a surprisingly quiet world of high-altitude highlands opens up.
This tour is a 4-day journey that visits the apple village of Marpha, the scenic highland settlement of Naurikot, the mystical Sekong Lake, and the beautiful Titi Lake that reflects Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri.
No long, demanding trekking is required — you explore the highland lakes and grazing lands with the help of a private vehicle. Because the route centres on areas around 3,000 m, it is accessible even for those who are not confident in their fitness.
Unlike the crowded classic routes, the appeal here is the chance to relax into villages where Thakali culture remains strong and into high-altitude landscapes with few people. It has begun drawing attention within Nepal in recent years, but it remains a hidden gem still almost unknown to international travellers.
Highlights
- Enjoy the spectacular Mustang highlands without long trekking
- Visit Muktinath Temple
- Stroll through the apple village of Marpha
- Stay in the uncrowded highlands of Naurikot
- Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mirrored in Sekong Lake
- Quiet moments by the shore of Titi Lake
- Highland hiking at Nupsang Kharka
- Sweeping views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak
- Encounter Thakali culture and mountain farming life
Itinerary
Pokhara → Muktinath → Marpha
Private vehicle: approx. 6–7 hours. Depart Pokhara early and head north up the Kali Gandaki valley to Muktinath. After visiting Muktinath Temple — a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists — drive on to Marpha, known for its apples. Stroll the beautiful village of stone-paved lanes and white-walled traditional houses. Overnight: Marpha.
Marpha → Naurikot (Sekong Lake hike)
Private vehicle: approx. 1 hour / Hiking: approx. 2–3 hours. After breakfast, transfer to the highland village of Naurikot. In the afternoon, walk around Sekong Lake. On calm, windless days the lake surface turns to a mirror, reflecting the majestic forms of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. A day to savour the quiet, serene highland atmosphere away from the crowds. Overnight: Naurikot.
Naurikot → Titi Lake (Nupsang Kharka hike)
Private vehicle: approx. 1 hour / On foot: approx. 1 hour / Hiking: approx. 2–3 hours. Drive toward Titi and get off just before a suspension bridge. After crossing, walk to the lakeshore and the lodge that sits beside Titi Lake, with Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri rising directly ahead. In the afternoon, hike out to Nupsang Kharka and its vast pastures — depending on the season you may see yaks and livestock grazing, the pastoral scenes typical of the Mustang highlands. At dusk, watch the Himalayas tint the surface of the lake. Overnight: Titi Lake lodge.
Titi Lake → Pokhara
On foot: approx. 1 hour / Private vehicle: approx. 4 hours. Spend a relaxed morning by the lake. Weather permitting, watch Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri lit by the morning sun and reflected in the water. Then walk back to the suspension bridge and return to Pokhara by private vehicle.
Includes & Excludes
✓ Included
- All accommodation (3 nights)
- All meals during the tour
- Licensed guide (English- or Japanese-speaking)
- Private vehicle (round trip)
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
- First-aid kit
- Taxes
✕ Excluded
- International & domestic flights
- Nepal visa fees
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Personal drinks & snacks
- Tips for guide
- Pokhara hotel
Trek Photos
Cancellation Policy
| Notice Period | Refund |
|---|---|
| 60 days or more | 90% refunded |
| 45 – 59 days | 75% refunded |
| 30 – 44 days | 50% refunded |
| 15 – 29 days | 25% refunded |
| 14 days or fewer | No refund |
| No show | No refund |