13-Day Horseback Expedition Through Nepal's Last Forbidden Kingdom
Nepal | Cultures & Civilizations, Landscapes & Expeditions
Overview
Beyond the towering peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges lies Mustang (also known as the last forbidden kingdom), a land unlike anywhere else in Nepal. Separated from the lush middle hills by the world's deepest gorge - the Kali Gandaki Gorge - Mustang belongs to the Trans-Himalayan landscape, where dry valleys, dramatic cliffs, ancient cave dwellings, and centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist settlements create an environment that feels remarkably different from the rest of the country.
For centuries, this region served as an important trading corridor connecting Nepal with Tibet. Long before roads reached the Himalayas, people, salt, grain, wool, and everyday goods travelled these mountain trails on horseback. Even today, horses remain an essential part of daily life throughout Mustang. They are not simply used for tourism - they continue to transport food supplies, construction materials, firewood, agricultural products, and people between villages where modern vehicles still have limited access.
This journey offers an opportunity to experience Mustang as it has been travelled for generations: on horseback.
Unlike conventional trekking holidays, horseback travel allows you to move through the landscape at the same pace as the local communities. You'll ride across open riverbeds, narrow mountain trails, ancient trade routes, and windswept plateaus while visiting villages where Tibetan traditions, monasteries, prayer flags, and stone-built homes continue to define everyday life.
Your expedition begins with scenic overland journeys from Kathmandu to Pokhara and onward to Jomsom, gradually transitioning from Nepal's green hills into the dramatic landscapes of the Trans-Himalaya. Once in Jomsom, you'll meet your local horsemen and begin an unforgettable ride through villages including Jhong, Muktinath, Thorong Phedi, Lubra, and Marpha. Along the way, you'll visit sacred temples, ancient monasteries, and one of Nepal's oldest Bon communities while crossing Thorong La Pass at an elevation of 5,416 metres.
The Mustang region is home to diverse ethnic communities whose lives have adapted to this challenging environment for centuries. Most residents are of Tibetan heritage and continue to practice traditions that have remained largely unchanged despite the modern world. Agriculture is possible only during the warmer months, and livestock - including horses, yaks, sheep, and goats - plays an important role in sustaining local livelihoods. During the riding season, many families supplement their income by providing horses, guides, accommodation, and logistical support for travellers exploring the region.
For many of these families, horses are among their most valuable assets. They are carefully trained from an early age to navigate narrow mountain trails, rocky riverbeds, steep ascents, and high-altitude conditions that would challenge even experienced riding horses elsewhere. Their calm temperament, remarkable endurance, and sure-footed nature make them exceptionally well suited to Mustang's demanding terrain.
Throughout the expedition, you'll be accompanied by local horsemen who have spent much of their lives working alongside these animals. Their knowledge of the terrain, weather, altitude, and horse behaviour has been passed down through generations, making them invaluable companions throughout the journey.
Rather than offering a polished luxury riding holiday, this expedition focuses on providing an authentic experience that reflects the realities of life in the Himalayas. Accommodation is simple yet comfortable, meals are locally prepared, and each day offers genuine interaction with the people who continue to call Mustang home.
For travellers seeking meaningful cultural immersion alongside extraordinary mountain scenery, this horseback expedition offers one of Nepal's most distinctive adventures.
A Note on the Horses & Responsible Travel
At Geet Travel, we believe responsible tourism extends beyond caring for our travellers - it also means supporting the local communities and animals that make these experiences possible.
The horses used during this expedition are traditional Mustang horses, often referred to as Tibetan mountain ponies. Although smaller in stature than many Western riding breeds, they are exceptionally strong, agile, and remarkably sure-footed. Having lived and worked in the Himalayas for generations, they are naturally adapted to Mustang's rocky trails, steep mountain passes, thin air, and unpredictable weather conditions.
It is important to understand that these are working horses, not horses raised exclusively for recreational riding.
Throughout the year, they are part of everyday life in Mustang. Outside the tourism season, they transport goods between villages, carry agricultural supplies, assist local families, and serve as an essential means of transportation in areas where roads remain limited or inaccessible. Their lives are closely intertwined with those of the communities that own them.
While the horses are generally healthy, experienced, and well adapted to the terrain, visitors should recognise that their appearance and condition may differ from horses commonly seen in riding schools, ranches, or equestrian centres. They do not receive the same level of specialised professional grooming, stabling, or recreational care associated with horses kept exclusively for leisure riding.
Instead, they represent a traditional Himalayan working lifestyle that has existed for centuries.
Geet Travel works closely with trusted local horse-owning families and experienced horsemen to ensure the horses used during our expeditions are fit for the journey. We carefully monitor their workload throughout the trip and include additional backup horses whenever possible. This allows horses to be rotated during the expedition should one require additional rest, helping reduce fatigue while improving overall animal welfare.
Our horse guides are all local residents of Mustang who have grown up working with these animals. Their understanding of horse behaviour, mountain terrain, and safe riding practices plays an essential role in ensuring both rider safety and the wellbeing of the horses.
By joining this expedition, travellers directly contribute to the livelihoods of local horse-owning families. Tourism provides an important source of income that helps communities maintain their traditional way of life while encouraging the continued care and value of these remarkable mountain horses.
At the same time, we believe in being completely transparent.
Travellers who are highly sensitive to the appearance or lifestyle of working animals - or who expect horses maintained to recreational or competitive standards - may find that this expedition does not align with their expectations.
This journey is best suited to travellers who appreciate authentic cultural experiences, who are open to understand the realities of rural Himalayan life, and wish to support local communities through responsible, respectful tourism.
For those travellers, riding through Mustang alongside the people who have depended on these horses for generations becomes far more than an adventure - it becomes a meaningful connection with one of Nepal's most remarkable living cultures.
Top Highlights
Discover the remote landscapes of Lower Mustang on horseback, following centuries-old Himalayan trade routes.
Ride with experienced local horsemen using traditional Mustang horses and equipment that have served mountain communities for generations.
Explore the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
Cross the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), one of the highest mountain passes in the world accessible on horseback.
Visit authentic Himalayan villages including Jhong, Lubra, Marpha, and Jomsom, each preserving distinct traditions and architecture.
Learn about the Bon religion, one of the world's oldest spiritual traditions, in the secluded village of Lubra.
Experience the changing landscapes of Mustang, from deep river gorges and windswept valleys to alpine meadows and high Himalayan deserts.
Travel overland through Nepal's scenic countryside, allowing a gradual transition from lush hills to the stark beauty of the Trans-Himalayan region.
Support local horse-owning families and communities whose livelihoods have depended on horses for generations.
What is Included
Airport arrival and departure transfers in Kathmandu.
Accommodation in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara on a Bed & Breakfast (BB) basis.
Accommodation in quality mountain lodges/guesthouses throughout the Mustang region.
Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the horseback expedition in the Mustang region.
Shared tourist vehicle transfers between Kathmandu and Pokhara (both directions where applicable).
Private 4WD SUV/Jeep transfer between Pokhara and Jomsom.
Domestic flights from Jomsom to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu.
All airport transfers for domestic flights.
Experienced English-speaking licensed trekking guide throughout the expedition.
Professional local horse guide(s) from the Mustang region.
Horse allocated for each rider throughout the expedition.
Backup horse(s) available during the expedition whenever operationally required.
Traditional Mustang riding equipment and saddlery.
All required trekking and restricted area permits, including:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
TIMS Card (where applicable)
Any additional local permits required for the itinerary
Government taxes
24/7 Support by Geet Travel
What is Excluded
International airfare to and from Nepal.
Nepal entry visa fees.
Lunch and dinner while staying in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, bottled beverages, snacks, and personal refreshments throughout the trip.
Boiled drinking water, bottled water, tea, coffee, and other beverages at mountain lodges where additional charges apply.
Personal riding equipment and clothing.
Horse riding helmets (recommended to bring your own for optimum fit and comfort, although local helmets may be available on request).
Travel insurance (mandatory) covering:
Horse riding activities
High-altitude trekking and riding (up to 5,500 metres)
Emergency medical treatment
Helicopter evacuation
Trip cancellation and interruption
Personal expenses, including laundry, Wi-Fi, charging electronic devices, hot showers, and other services charged by lodges.
Tips and gratuities for guides, horsemen, drivers, and support staff.
Expenses arising from flight delays, cancellations, road closures, adverse weather, natural disasters, political unrest, or circumstances beyond Geet Travel's control.
Additional accommodation, meals, or transportation required due to unforeseen itinerary changes.
Any services not specifically mentioned under "Trip Includes."
Handcrafted Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)
Welcome to Nepal. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Geet Travel and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in, enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to relax after your flight or explore the vibrant streets surrounding your hotel, where traditional temples, bustling markets, and local cafés offer your first introduction to Nepal.
In the evening, your trek leader will provide a briefing about the upcoming expedition, including the journey to Mustang, riding conditions, and essential preparations for the days ahead.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Drive to Pokhara (822 m / 2,697 ft) by Shared Tourist Vehicle
Day 3: Drive to Jomsom (2,720 m / 8,924 ft)
Day 4: Horse Ride to Jhong Village (3,550 m / 11,647 ft)
Day 5: Horse Ride to Muktinath (3,800 m / 12,467 ft)
Day 6: Acclimatization Day in Muktinath (3,800 m / 12,467 ft)
Day 7: Horse Ride to Thorong Phedi (4,540 m / 14,895 ft)
Day 8: Horse Ride to Thorong La Pass (5,416 m / 17,769 ft) & Return to Muktinath (3,800 m / 12,467 ft)
Day 9: Horse Ride to Lubra Village (3,500 m / 11,482 ft)
Day 10: Horse Ride to Jomsom (2,720 m / 8,924 ft)
Day 11: Fly to Pokhara & Connect to Kathmandu
Day 12: Free Day in Kathmandu – Optional Sightseeing & Farewell Dinner
Day 13: Departure from Nepal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the best time to join this horseback expedition?
The best seasons for horseback riding in Mustang are March to May and late September to November. During these months, the weather is generally stable, skies are clear, and temperatures are ideal for riding. Unlike many trekking regions in Nepal, Mustang lies within the Himalayan rain shadow, making it one of the few destinations that can also be visited during parts of the summer monsoon.
2. Do I need previous horse riding experience?
3. What kind of horses are used during the expedition?
4. Are the horses well looked after?
5. Is altitude sickness a concern?
6. How fit do I need to be?
7. What accommodation is provided?
8. Will I have Wi-Fi, electricity, and phone signal?
9. What should I pack?
10. Can solo travellers join this expedition?
11. Why book this journey with Geet Travel?
Trip Snapshot
- Duration 13 Days / 12 Nights
- Trip Type Multiday
- Difficulty Challenging
- Best Season Oct - May
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