Nepal Guided Photography Tours
Kathmandu & Upper Mustang
Nepal Photo Tours | The Forbidden Kingdom
Spring 2025
Kathmandu, Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang
28 Feb - 13 March 2025
A 2-week photography adventure highlighting the incredible landscapes of Upper Mustang along with the people and culture of Nepal. Guided with expert, thoughtful instruction, you will be well looked after, challenged and inspired.
Upper Mustang, Nepal
Kathmandu's Colorful Tapestry
Our Nepal trip begins in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city. We'll navigate the labyrinthine alleys of Thamel, the heart of the tourist district, where you can capture the sensory overload of colors, textures, and the captivating energy of the local markets. Delve into the majestic temples of Durbar Square, photographing intricate woodcarvings and witnessing traditional rituals unfold under the watchful gaze of the snow-capped peaks in the distance. Venture over to Pashputinath, where funereal ghats await.
Bear witness to a disappearing world.
Foreign visitors have been allowed to the area since 1992, but tourism to Upper Mustang is regulated, meaning few have made this trip. And few will be able to for much longer. The advent of a new ‘super highway’ linking Nepal to China, and cutting through the heart of Upper Mustang, means that the centuries-old ways of life will be forever changed. If you wish to see authentic Tibetan Communties existing as they have for centuries, this may very well be your last chance.
Upper Mustang - Unveiling Hidden Gems
Scenic flights take us to Pokhara and Jomsom. A short trek from Jomsom takes us to the rugged village of Kagbeni and the gateway to Upper Mustang. This is where our Nepal photography tours truly differentiate themselves. We'll venture on short treks into lesser-known valleys allowing you to capture the magic of remote villages untouched by modern life. Think ancient monasteries perched precariously on cliffs, prayer flags dancing in the wind against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, or the timeless beauty of terraced rice paddies bathed in the golden afternoon light. These are the moments that will make your Nepal trip truly unforgettable.
Nepal Photo Tour Details
$5950 USD. Price is inclusive of internal flights, lodging, airport pickup and meals.
February 28 - March 13, 2025
14 days, 13 nights, 12 days of shooting.
Group size limited to 9 people.
All skill levels welcome. Focus on landscape, travel, cultural portraits and post-processing.
Itinerary Highlights
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Kathmandu | People, Pujas, and Ghats
Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of Kathmandu, Nepal. Witness ancient Hindu and Buddhist rituals unfold daily in majestic temples. Hike through bustling bazaars overflowing with spices and handicrafts. Observe the sacred cremation rituals along the holy Pashupatinath Ghats, a powerful reminder of life's impermanence. Kathmandu is a feast for the senses, where spirituality and culture intertwine at every turn.
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The Forbidden City | Lo Manthang
Step back in time in Lo Manthang, Nepal's mesmerizing walled city. This former Mustang kingdom, nestled high in the Himalayas, offers a photographer's paradise. Capture the sun-drenched whitewashed homes adorned with colorful accents. Snap prayer flags vibrant against the dramatic backdrop of the Mustang landscape. Lo Manthang awaits with a timeless beauty begging to be captured on camera.
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Religious Ceremonies, Pujas and More
While staying in Boudha, we’ll witness ancient Buddhist pujas (prayers) with rhythmic chanting, filling vibrant temples with devotion. Nepal boasts fascinating Buddhist ceremonies adorned with colorful mandalas. From serene monasteries echoing with mantras to lively Hindu festivals, experience the rich tapestry of religious practices that define Nepal's soul.
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Cultural Portraits
Capture the soul of Nepal through the faces of its people. From saffron-robed monks deep in meditation to trekkers etched with Himalayan grit, Nepal's cultural tapestry unfolds in every smile and wrinkle. Building trust is key, but fret not - Nepalese hospitality is legendary. A simple "Namaste" and genuine interest will open doors (and hearts) for portraits that tell a story far deeper than a snapshot.
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Landscape Photography
Capture the magic of Upper Mustang! This hidden gem in Nepal offers a landscape photographer's paradise. Towering, snow-capped Annapurna peaks pierce the clear blue sky, while the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang emerges from the dramatic, arid desert. Traditional villages cling to cliffsides, and prayer flags flutter in the crisp mountain air. Upper Mustang is a photographer's dream, where nature and culture collide in a timeless spectacle.
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Lakeside Serenity of Pokhara
Pokhara, nestled beside Phewa Lake, is a symphony of serenity and wonder. Imagine waking to the gentle lapping of water against wooden boats, a cool mountain breeze whispering through pines, and the distant, melodic chanting from a hidden monastery. The majestic Annapurna range, capped with snow, paints the horizon a brilliant white, while colorful prayer flags snap in the crisp air. Pokhara is a feast for the senses.
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Trekking - Ancient Trade Routes
Photograph yak caravans traversing timeless trails, Hike the timeless trails of Upper Mustang, where wind whispers tales of traders past. Capture the golden light wash over ancient stone paths that once carried salt and spices.. In Upper Mustang, history isn't a museum exhibit, it's a path waiting to be walked, photographed, and forever preserved. and return with breathtaking shots that tell the story of this unique and mystical land.
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Local Culture
Beyond the dramatic landscapes, meet the village people, their faces etched with stories whispered on the Himalayan winds. Turn the tables on yourself by lending a villager your camera and become more than a tourist – become a friend, preserving their ancient way of life through the lens of your camera and the warmth of both your hearts. The folks you’ll meet on the trail are as inspiring as the landscapes you’ll wander through to reach them.
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Pashaputinath Ghats
Witness for yourself the sacred rituals of life and death at Pashupatinath, Kathmandu. Every day, open-air cremations take place along the banks of the holy Bagmati River, a tradition followed for centuries. Observe families performing final rites for loved ones, a powerful display of on the circle of life. A powerful, life-changing and unique experience.
Don’t Get Left Behind - Request Our Brochure
This is the photography adventure of a lifetime. Receive our brochure and stay in the loop for news, updates and future journeys. We’ll be returning to Upper Mustang in March of 2025 - Stay in the loop for future journeys!
Beyond the Itinerary
Take your photography further.
One-on-one instruction and tips and tricks on the trail are, of course, always available when you need it, but the real learning takes place by fostering a collaborative environment where you can share your images and experiences, receive constructive feedback on your photographs, and learn valuable skills during our informal, evening critiques. Embark on a transformative, educational photography adventure in Nepal. This trip is a combination of trekking and 4-wheel drives to make the most of our time in Upper Mustang. You should be able to hike with a light pack for 5 hours a day.
Booking Inquiry
To offer the best possible experience, space is strictly limited to 9 guests.
Please click to use the form below to reserve your space, ask more questions, schedule a call and start on the journey of a lifetime.
Book an online call.
Have questions? I’d love to speak with you in person and answer any questions or concerns you might have.
Simply provide your email and your preferred days and times for a call and I’ll get right back to you.
Trek through breathtaking valleys, past ancient cave dwellings, and a way of life untouched by modernization. Explore the labyrinthine alleys of Lo Manthang, the region's capital, a walled city that exudes a timeless charm. Experience the magic of an ancient culture before a new highway forever changes both the landscape and the centuries-old way of life here. Religious practices and time-honored customs face an unprecedented challenge as the modern world encroaches upon this ancient way of life.
There has never been a better or more urgent time to embark on a journey to Upper Mustang.
Witness the last autonomous Tibetan Communities in existence
Upper Mustang, offers a glimpse into a bygone era. Here, traditional stone houses huddle together in villages adorned with prayer flags. Villagers draped in colorful chubas tend their barley fields, following an agricultural way of life unchanged for centuries. The air hums with the chants of monks in maroon robes, their monasteries echoing with age-old rituals.
This cultural treasure is, however, under threat. The construction of a modern road has already begun. While some residents welcome the benefits of easier access to goods and services, concerns about how an influx of outsiders will dilute their unique heritage remain.
Improve Your Travel, Landscape and Street Photography
Travel photography is a pretty broad term, comprising a host of photographic styles - street, landscape, nature, cultural portraits…I could go on. While you need to learn how to be quick with your camera to capture sharp, in-focus images on the fly, you’ll also learn that the most critical skill has nothing to do with the camera. You’ll take your work to the next level by learning how to create authentic rapport with our hosts for more intimate images that express emotional impact. You’ll also have endless opportunities for street photography in Kathmandu and, of course, the landscape photography is legendary.
Trekking and Travel Photography
-Sharpen your street, landscape, and cultural portrait photography skills
-Improve your landscape photography dramatically with endless opportunities for captivating images
-Add to your already impressive portfolio with timeless images from a place few have ever seen
-Individualized instruction always tailored to your specific needs, interests and skill level
Highlights
While trekking, you're always in a safe, creative space with expert, individualized instruction that challenges and inspires.
Nepal Tour Itinerary
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Arrive in Kathmandu | Stay in Boudha
Wake to the gentle hum of Tibetan chants and the vibrant flutter of prayer flags. We’ll be staying a few minute’s walk from this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers for a truly immersive experience. Your mornings will begin with the peaceful circumambulation (walking around) of the massive stupa, a ritual practiced for centuries. Throughout the day, delve into the labyrinthine alleys lined with traditional Tibetan shops and bustling gompas (monasteries). . Boudhanath offers a truly unique stay, perfect for those seeking a tranquil base to explore Kathmandu's rich tapestry.
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Days 1-2 | Kathmandu
Kathmandu offers a captivating blend of ancient history and vibrant energy. We'll visit the iconic Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site where centuries-old traditions unfold along the holy Bagmati River. Prepare to be humbled by the spiritual rituals and open-air cremations.
For a contrasting experience, we'll then dive into the heart of Thamel, Kathmandu's energetic tourist hub. Bustling with shops selling everything from trekking gear to handcrafted souvenirs, Thamel is a feast for the senses.
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Day 3 | Kathmandu to Pokhara
Our flight to Pokhara is a breathtaking introduction to Nepal's grandeur. Buckle in for a stunning 25-minute journey, where the majestic Annapurna range unfolds before your eyes. Pokhara itself is a lakeside paradise. This vibrant hub offers something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to explore the bustling bazaars and savor the local specialties - Pokhara is a great place to hang and take it easy before venturing into Upper Mustang.
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Day 4 | Pokhara to Jomsom
Our Mustang adventure begins with a breathtaking flight from Pokhara. Imagine soaring alongside the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri giants, the world's deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki, snaking below. In just 20 minutes, we'll land in Jomsom, our gateway to Upper Mustang. Here, we'll acclimatize and gear up for a gentle trek to Kagbeni. Prepare to be captivated by traditional Tibetan architecture, an alice-blue sky, and inconceivable spires of ochre monoliths reaching to the heavens.
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Kagbeni
Kagbeni, perched high above the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge, is your gateway to the wonders of Upper Mustang. This ancient Tibetan village, embraced by windswept desert and snow-capped giants, offers a glimpse into a timeless culture. Explore labyrinthine alleys lined with traditional houses, witness vibrant prayer flags snapping in the crisp mountain air, and soak in the spiritual energy of centuries-old monasteries. Kagbeni isn't just a stop – it's a cultural and geographical marvel waiting to be discovered.
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Chusang
Just between Tangbe and Chele on the Upper Mustang trek, Chusang offers a delightful break on your journey. This charming village, cradled at the confluence of the Narshing and Kali Gandaki rivers, boasts a rich tapestry of Tibetan culture. Chusang's farming community provides a glimpse into the region's agricultural heart, while the surrounding landscape, painted with dramatic hues, will leave you breathless.
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Samar
Nestled amidst the windswept plains of Upper Mustang, Samar village offers a glimpse into a traditional Tibetan way of life. Perched at 3660 meters, this remote community clings to the hillside, its whitewashed houses adorned with colorful prayer flags. Here, life revolves around barley fields and the rhythm of Buddhist prayer wheels. Samar serves as a perfect stop on your Upper Mustang adventure, offering a chance to interact with welcoming locals and experience a culture untouched by modern pressures.
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Ghami
Set amidst the arid splendor of Upper Mustang, Ghami is a village steeped in tradition. Here, flat-roofed stone houses huddle close, adorned with prayer flags that flutter in the thin air. Villagers, wrapped in vibrant robes, cultivate barley fields using techniques passed down for generations. Explore the 15th-century Gompa monastery, a testament to the region's rich Buddhist heritage. Ghami offers a captivating glimpse into a timeless world, perfect for those seeking an authentic cultural experience.
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Lo Manthang | Garphu and Niphu Caves
Nestled within Upper Mustang's dramatic canyons lies Lo Manthang, a timeless walled city steeped in Tibetan culture. Explore its ancient monasteries adorned with prayer flags, and wander the vibrant marketplace brimming with handmade crafts. A short trek beyond the city reveals the hidden wonders of the Garpohu and Niphu caves. Here, weathered cliffs hold sanctuaries adorned with centuries-old Buddhist murals, offering a glimpse into the region's rich spiritual heritage. Prepare for a unique cultural immersion unlike any other in the Himalayas.
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Lo Manthang | Sam Dzong
Sam Dzong offers a glimpse into a truly untouched Tibetan world. This remote village, accessible only by foot, boasts traditional stone houses adorned with prayer flags. Here, time seems to stand still. Villagers in colorful chubas tend their barley fields, their pace of life dictated by the rhythm of the seasons. A highlight for many is the opportunity to witness ancient funerary caves high above the village, a testament to the unique cultural practices preserved here. Be prepared for basic amenities as this village proudly embraces its traditional way of life.
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Lo Manthang to Jomsom
Our Upper Mustang jeep excursion offers a thrilling journey back to Jomsom. We'll traverse dramatic canyons carved by the Kali Gandaki River, the deepest in the world. Prepare for breathtaking panoramas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges as we wind through traditional villages adorned with prayer flags. We'll encounter unique rock formations and possibly even glimpse wild Himalayan bharal sheep. This off-road adventure is a fantastic way to experience the raw beauty and cultural richness of Mustang before arriving back in Jomsom.
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Jomsom to Kathmandu
Buckle up for a breathtaking aerial journey! Our flight from Jomsom to Kathmandu offers stunning Himalayan vistas for the entire 25-minute trip. We'll take off from Jomsom's dramatic high-altitude airstrip, and soon you'll be gazing out the window at an incredible panorama of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, two of the world's highest peaks. Keep your cameras at the ready - this is a once-in-a-lifetime photoshoot with some of the planet's most majestic mountains. As we descend towards Kathmandu, prepare for a glimpse of Nepal's diverse landscapes, transitioning from the rugged Himalayas to the verdant valleys below. This short flight is a thrilling add-on to any Upper Mustang adventure.
Nepal Travel Blog
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An award-winning international photographer with 3 decades of work spanning the globe, Guy began using his skills as a filmmaker to develop workshops for the monks of Namgyal monastery to preserve the teachings of the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet. Guy later turned that experience into his own non-profit, Handheld Stories, where he led no-cost filmmaking workshops for young adults in underrepresented communities worldwide facing critical social challenges.
An award-winning teacher as well, Guy was recognized for his tireless work teaching photography and filmmaking to students at Dubai Men’s College where he received the Nikai Award for Excellence and Innovation in Education.
Guy is consummately dedicated to sharing the skills, knowledge and experience he’s accumulated over the years to others seeking to represent their communities, advocate for change or simply use the power of photography to create compelling snapshots of our experiences on this planet.