The Teri La Pass – Nar Phu to Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote, demanding, and rewarding high-altitude trekking adventures, designed for experienced trekkers seeking true wilderness and deep Himalayan culture. The trek links the hidden Nar and Phu valleys of the Annapurna region with the arid, trans-Himalayan landscapes of Upper Mustang, crossing the formidable Teri La Pass (5,595 m)—one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal. Beginning from the Annapurna Circuit trail, the route diverts into rarely visited valleys where ancient Tibetan-influenced villages, centuries-old monasteries, and traditional lifestyles remain largely untouched by modern development. As the trek ascends, the scenery transforms from pine forests and river gorges to high alpine pastures, glacial moraines, and stark mountain deserts.
Crossing Teri La Pass is the most challenging and dramatic section of the journey, requiring long trekking days, careful acclimatization, and often camping support due to the extreme altitude and remoteness. From the pass, the trail descends into Upper Mustang, revealing a striking contrast of wind-carved cliffs, barren hills, and historic settlements such as Yara, Tsarang, and Lo-Manthang, the walled capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang. The trek offers unparalleled views of major Himalayan giants including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and surrounding peaks, while also providing a rare cultural experience shaped by Tibetan Buddhism and ancient trade routes. Overall, this trek is a true expedition-style journey that combines physical challenge, dramatic landscapes, and rich cultural immersion, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for serious trekkers.
