Chhoser Sky Caves Travel Guide

The Chhoser Sky Caves also known as Jhong cave, are among the most mysterious and historically rich attractions in Upper Mustang, Nepal. Located near Chhoser village, just a short distance from the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, these remarkable caves are carved high into steep, rugged cliff faces. Their dramatic location immediately captures attention, as many of the caves appear almost unreachable, clinging to vertical rock walls overlooking Mustang’s vast, dry valleys.

Archaeological research suggests that some of the Chhoser Sky Caves date back more than 2,000 years, making them one of the oldest man-made cave systems in the Himalayan region. Over the centuries, these caves served multiple purposes. Early inhabitants used them as living spaces and shelters, protecting themselves from harsh weather and potential threats. Later, many caves became places for meditation and spiritual retreat, closely linked with the spread of Tibetan Buddhism in Mustang. Some caves were also used for burial practices, with discoveries of ancient remains, manuscripts, and artifacts that offer intriguing information about early Mustang civilization.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The Chhoser Sky Caves are really special for understanding the early people of Upper Mustang. Archaeologists have found that ancient communities carved these caves high into the cliffs to create homes, storage spaces, and safe shelters. Living this way helped them survive the tough mountain weather and stay protected from dangers. It shows just how clever and tough those early Mustang inhabitants were.

Later on, as Tibetan Buddhism spread through the area, many of the caves turned into peaceful places for meditation and spiritual retreats. You can still see signs of that time in some caves today, like faded wall paintings, old manuscripts, small prayer niches, and quiet meditation rooms. These discoveries highlight the deep spiritual connection between the caves and Buddhist traditions in the region.

Some caves are thought to have been used by Buddhist monks for long periods of solitary meditation, where they stayed completely alone to focus on their practice. This gives the site a powerful religious meaning. Altogether, the remains and spiritual history of the Chhoser Sky Caves give us a rare and fascinating glimpse into how life, culture, and religion grew and changed in Upper Mustang over thousands of years.

How to Reach Chhoser Sky Caves

By Flight

Flying is the fastest way to begin your trip to the Chhoser Sky Caves. Most people take a domestic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. The flight gives you amazing views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. It usually takes about 20–25 minutes, but weather can cause delays. From Jomsom, you can go on to Lo Manthang by private jeep or by walking. You’ll pass through remote villages and the wild, dramatic desert landscapes of Upper Mustang. Once you arrive in Lo Manthang, the Sky Caves near Chhoser village are just a short day hike away.

By Private Jeep

A private jeep gives you a flexible and exciting way to travel. The drive starts from Pokhara and goes through Beni, Tatopani, and Kagbeni before you enter Upper Mustang. From Kagbeni, the road continues through the restricted area of Mustang toward Lo Manthang. You pass traditional villages, river valleys, and beautiful high-altitude desert scenery. The journey takes several days, but it lets you stop at intriguing cultural and scenic spots along the way. From Lo Manthang, a short drive and a brief walk take you to Chhoser village and the Sky Caves.

By Trekking

Reaching the Chhoser Sky Caves by trekking is ideal for travelers who want to fully experience the landscape and culture of Upper Mustang. The trek usually starts from Jomsom or Kagbeni, following the classic Upper Mustang trail through ancient villages such as Chele, Ghami, and Charang. Along the way, trekkers walk through wide valleys, colorful cliffs, and traditional settlements influenced by Tibetan culture. After reaching Lo Manthang, the journey continues with a day hike toward Chhoser village, where the Sky Caves are located. The trek is moderate in difficulty but involves high altitude, so proper acclimatization and a licensed guide are essential for a safe and rewarding experience.

Best Time to Visit Chhoser Sky Caves

The best time to visit the Chhoser Sky Caves is during spring (March to May), when the weather in Upper Mustang is mild and comfortable. During this season, days are usually sunny with clear skies, which makes walking and the short hikes to the caves easier and more enjoyable. Spring also provides excellent visibility of the surrounding cliffs and valleys, letting you fully appreciate the dramatic landscape and take sharp, clear photographs.

Another ideal time is autumn (September to November), which is the most popular season for visiting Upper Mustang. The weather stays stable, with cool temperatures and very little wind, creating perfect conditions for sightseeing and exploring the area. Trails are dry, and views of the high-altitude desert terrain are sharp and wide, making autumn a favorite season for both trekkers and jeep travelers visiting the Sky Caves.

Upper Mustang lies in a rain-shadow area, meaning it receives very little rainfall even during the summer months. While travel is possible in summer, conditions can be dusty and windy. Winter (December to February) is the least favorable time to visit, as temperatures drop sharply, snow may block routes, and extreme cold makes exploration difficult and uncomfortable.

Things to Do at Chhoser Sky Caves

• Explore the ancient caves: Walk through the Sky Caves carved high into the cliffs. These were historically used as living spaces, shelters, and meditation chambers. Visiting them lets you imagine how early Mustang inhabitants adapted to the harsh terrain.
• Learn from local guides: Listen to fascinating stories, legends, and archaeological details about the caves. Guides explain their use in daily life, spiritual retreats, and burial practices.
• Enjoy panoramic views: Take in sweeping vistas of Mustang’s dramatic cliffs, deep valleys, and high-altitude desert landscape. These spots offer excellent viewpoints for photography and quiet reflection.
• Photography: Capture beautiful images of the cliff faces, cave entrances, and the surrounding barren yet striking terrain. It’s perfect for both amateur and professional photographers.
• Observe local culture: Visit the nearby Chhoser village to see traditional Tibetan-influenced houses, talk with locals, and experience everyday village life.
• Short scenic hikes: Walk along the trails around the caves to enjoy fresh mountain air, peaceful surroundings, and clear views of the valleys and cliffs.
• Spiritual reflection: Feel the calm and peaceful atmosphere of the caves, which Buddhist monks once used for long meditation retreats and spiritual practice.
• Visit nearby monasteries: Explore cultural sites such as Jhong Cave and Garphu Gompa. These add valuable historical and spiritual context to your visit.
• Study ancient art and artifacts: Look at the remains of old murals, manuscripts, and prayer niches in some caves. They provide insight into Mustang’s early civilization and Buddhist heritage.

These activities blend adventure, history, culture, and spirituality, making a trip to the Chhoser Sky Caves a truly unforgettable experience in Upper Mustang.

Nearby Attractions

• Walk inside cliffside caves that people once used as homes, shelters, and quiet places for meditation.
• Find small hidden rooms deep in the caves where Buddhist monks lived and practiced alone.
• Look at parts of the caves where remains were kept, which shows how early people in Mustang buried their dead.
• Hear local guides share stories, old legends, and real facts from archaeology about the caves and ancient Mustang life.
• Enjoy big, open views of steep cliffs, wide valleys, and the high desert landscape of Mustang.
• Take beautiful photos of the tall cliff faces, cave openings, and the wild natural scenery around you.
• Stop by Chhoser village nearby to see traditional Tibetan-style homes and daily life.
• Walk the trails near the caves for fresh air, peaceful quiet, and clear views in every direction.
• Visit other close-by spots like Jhong Cave and Garphu Gompa to learn even more about the culture.
• Notice old murals, ancient manuscripts, and small prayer niches carved inside some caves.
• Admire the amazing rock shapes created by centuries of wind and weather.
• Get sweeping views of Lo Manthang, including the old walled city, the royal palace, and nearby villages.
• See colorful prayer flags and little chortens along the cliffs and paths.
• Experience the tranquil, peaceful energy within the caves that once housed extended periods of meditation.
• Watch for Himalayan birds, mountain goats, and tough plants that grow in this dry, high place.

Accommodation and Food

There are no hotels or lodges directly at the Chhoser Sky Caves, so travelers need to plan their stay in a nearby village. The most convenient and comfortable option is Lo Manthang, that famous walled capital of Upper Mustang. Here, visitors can find a good few lodges and guesthouses; they are nothing fancy, but they have clean rooms with the basics you need. It’s way easier to get to the Sky Caves from there, and while you’re staying, you can poke around the monasteries, the royal palace, and all the cool traditional Tibetan-style buildings.

If you prefer a more authentic and local experience, Chhoser village offers seasonal homestays. They’re really basic and modest, but you get to stay with families, see how people actually live day-to-day, chat with locals, and soak up that proper Tibetan-influenced Mustang culture. However, Chhoser offers fewer facilities than Lo Manthang, so it's advisable to plan ahead.

Food in Upper Mustang is simple, hearty stuff made for trekkers. Typical meals include dal bhat, noodles, soup, Tibetan bread, and butter tea. It’s warm, filling, and gives you solid energy for hiking and checking out the caves. When you head to the more remote bits (especially right near the caves), there’s hardly anything around, so pack some snacks and water with you.

Available Packages

Nepal Trek Adventures offers several well-thought-out Upper Mustang jeep and trekking tours. We focus on comfort, safety, and genuine cultural experiences. Upper Mustang is often called the “Last Forbidden Kingdom” because of its stunning desert landscapes, ancient monasteries, and strong Tibetan-influenced culture. Every package includes experienced local guides who take care of the itinerary, permits, and all logistics so the trip feels smooth and stress-free. Whether you prefer trekking on foot or exploring by jeep, our tours give you a responsible and meaningful way to really experience Mustang.

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour – 5 Days: This immersive jeep tour is designed to coincide with the Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang, a lively celebration of good defeating evil. You’ll drive through remote villages like Ghami, Charang, and Chhoser, where you can see traditional Tibetan-style village life, ancient cliff caves, and monasteries that are hundreds of years old. The comfortable jeeps make it easy to cross the desert valleys and dramatic cliffs. Our guides will explain the festival, local rituals, and Mustang’s rich heritage along the way. It’s perfect if you want a short trip that mixes adventure, culture, and a front-row seat at the festival.

Conclusion

The Chhoser Sky Caves are one of the coolest highlights in Upper Mustang history, culture, and wild landscapes all mixed together in one spot. Going there lets you step back in time a bit and see how people long ago dealt with such rough land while building up deep spiritual ways. The spot they’re in and how old they are make the whole place feel really special to visit. Adding the Chhoser Sky Caves to your Upper Mustang trek gives it that extra spark of adventure and wonder. No matter if you’re into the old stories, the local culture, or just the amazing views, it sticks with you. The caves share bits of ancient life and end up giving you memories that hang around long after you’ve headed home from Mustang.