Upper Mustang Trek: Journey to Nepal's Hidden Kingdom
The Upper Mustang Trek spans 20 days of awe-inspiring adventure in Nepal. Kicking off in Kathmandu, the journey delves into the mystique of the Kathmandu Valley before embarking on a scenic route to Pokhara. From Pokhara, a thrilling flight carries you to Jomsom, marking the inception of your trek. As you ascend through charming villages, the cultural and historical tapestry of the region unfolds. Lo Manthang, the ancient capital, is a highlight, steeped in rich heritage. The trek promises a dynamic interplay of changing elevations and walking hours, unveiling the diverse and mesmerizing beauty of the Mustang region.
Tucked away in northern Nepal lies a journey to one of the last strongholds of Tibetan culture: the Upper Mustang Trek.Protected by the towering peaks of both the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, this isolated region once comprised the now-named Kingdom of Lo, a place where ancient traditions thrive. Nicknamed “The Last Forbidden Kingdom,” for centuries the area was restricted, and even now this is one of the few spots in the world where trekkers can enjoy the most unique cultural and historical aura. The Upper Mustang Trek offers not only breathtakingly beautiful landscapes but allows exploration into monasteries, ancient caves, and to experience warm-hearted Loba people.
It will lead you through some major trek highlights, some cultural insight into practical information, and frequently asked questions that will prepare you for this unforgettable adventure.
Key Attractions of the Upper Mustang Trek
Lo Manthang
Lo Manthang is a walled city that was once the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Lo; it still remains the cultural and political center of Upper Mustang. Ancient monasteries, royal palaces, and whitewashed homes that have stood the test of time seemingly join hands as one walks down the narrow alleys of Lo Manthang. Punctuating these are the Jampa Lhakhang or God House, Thubchen Gompa or Great Assembly Hall, and the former royal palace. And then there are Lo Manthang's stunning thangkas or Buddhist paintings- cleaved by professional craftsmen adept in traditional handicrafts.
Chhoser Cave Dwellings
Some of the most interesting and mysterious of all the sights around Lo Manthang are the Chhoser Cave dwellings. Cut into the cliffs, these caves-eloquently carved by humans and nature over more than 2,000 years-are former meditation centers, homes, and burial chambers. You crawl inside the caves literally and get the aura of ancient civilizations that once reigned over this area. Many caves boast ancient murals and relics that give views an enlightening look into the region's history.
Muktinath Temple
Muktinath Temple is the most worshipped place for both Hindus and Buddhists before they reach Upper Mustang. It is also famous for its eternal flame, which naturally burns through a rock. The temple complex is situated at an altitude of 3,800 meters above sea level, with spectacular views of surrounding peaks of both the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. For trekkers, Muktinath is a spiritual stop and a scenic highlight of the trek.
Desert Landscapes
The View of the Upper Mustang differs altogether from any other part of Nepal. Because the area lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, its landscape takes on a desert-like appearance.The red, orange, and brown cliffs dramatically rise from the floor. Wind-swept plateaus stretch as far as the eye can see. Parched and barren, the landscape does break up with an occasional oasis of green field and streams that offer a dramatic contrast in beauty to some of Nepal's more verdant trekking regions.
Kali Gandaki River
It cuts through a part of the deepest gorge in the world, the Kali Gandaki River, parallel to much of this trekking route. You will take a walk along its banks and go through small villages, ancient trade routes, and breathtaking natural scenery. Long the river itself has served as a lifeline to the communities of Upper Mustang, and even today, it's integral to the region's identity.
Trekking Details
Duration
Usually, Upper Mustang Trek takes around 16-20 days depending on preference and the itinerary. It includes a couple of more days' stay in Lo Manthang to explore the surrounding areas. However, for tight schedule trekkers, a 10-day trek will be possible but may mean skipping some cultural sites.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to trek Upper Mustang is from March to November. During spring, from March to May, the temperatures are mild, and one can glimpse the Tiji Festival-a colorful event of great cultural significance that is held at Lo Manthang. In autumn, or from September to November, the skies are clear, and cooler conditions make it the perfect time for photography and unhindered Himalayan views. Unlike most parts of Nepal, the Upper Mustang is an area which can be trekked even during the monsoon season- from June till August because it falls in the rain shadow of the Himalayas.
Difficulty Level
The grade for the Upper Mustang Trek is rated as Moderate. Generally speaking, the trails are well-marked and not particularly steep; however, the altitude of 4,200 meters in parts really creates an added dimension of difficulty in itself. At that sort of altitude, one can expect shortness of breath and a reduced pace; as such, acclimatization is very important. Generally speaking, anyone in decent physical shape can easily take on the trek, but one does need to keep in mind that days spent walking will be long in more often than not harsh and dry conditions.
Essential Equipment
Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in trekking boots with good ankle support are essential.
Clothing: To be able to adjust your clothing to changing temperatures: thermal base layers, fleece jackets, and waterproof outer layering.
Sun Protection: The sun at high altitude may be fierce; thus, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended.
Sleeping Gear: One should take a sleeping bag for chilly nights; the temperature may suddenly drop at night to as low as -10°C.
Poles: They will come in handy to support themselves during uneven and rocky areas..
Water: Hydration is everything. So, as much as water can be taken with them, which may be supplemented by water purification tablets or even water filter.
Cultural Insights
Upper Mustang is considered a living museum of Tibetan Buddhist culture. The Loba people are its occupants, tracing their roots from the Tibetan empire, and their customs, traditions, and even language have a deep attachment with their Tibetan ancestry. Along this trek route, you pass by villages that have maintained their traditional way of living for several centuries back.Houses are with flat roofs and thick walls to stand strong against strong cold winds of the region. Hundreds-of-years-old monasteries dot the region, a number of them being Ghar Gompa and Namgyal Monastery, where monks still conduct ancient rituals. These places strike many a visitor with their serenity and spiritual energy, where fluttering prayer flags and mani walls line paths carved with Buddhist prayers. One of the grandest cultural events in Upper Mustang, the Tiji Festival is a three-day ritual in Lo Manthang during every month of May. Colorful in masked dances, religious ceremonies, and prayers to drive away evil spirits and bring peace and prosperity to the region, this festival is very exciting. The Tiji Festival provides a chance for visitors who get there during this time to be taken through and to experience spiritual heritage, which is one of the important aspects of Mustang.
Included / Excluded
To help you plan your trip, we have put together a list of what's included and what's not included in your tour package. This will give you a clear understanding of what to expect and help you make any necessary arrangements before your journey begins.
- Airport transfers
- Hotel accommodations in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Meals during the trek
- TIMS card and permits
- Transportation for the trekking crew
- Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu
- Domestic flights.
- Trekking guide, assistant guide, and porters
- Medical and accident insurance
- Welcome dinner
- First aid kit
- Trekking map
- Nepal entry visa fee
- International airfare
- Entrance fees for sightseeing.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except farewell dinner)
- Medical expenses.
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, etc.)
- Personal trekking gear.
- Additional staff.
- Tips and gratitude.
- Extra charges due to natural calamities.
- Why us?
- Who are we?
- Our team
Itinerary
We have carefully planned out each day to give you the best possible experience. From exploring historic landmarks to tasting delicious local cuisine, each day is packed with adventure and excitement. Join us as we take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating destinations in the world.
Land in Kathmandu Airport and get greeted by your team. Enjoy a traditional Nepalese welcome dinner.
Unveil the mysteries of the Kathmandu Valley, where history and culture intertwine. Explore ancient temples, hidden courtyards, and vibrant bazaars that hold the secrets of centuries.
Your day begins with a picturesque journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara, where the changing altitudes offer a variety of landscapes. You’ll arrive in Pokhara, a gateway to adventure, at approximately 800m.
Embark on a thrilling flight from Pokhara to Jomsom (altitude: 2720m). From Jomsom, your trek to Kagbeni (2800m) begins, leading you through a desert-like landscape, promising a unique adventure. Approximately 3 hours of trekking.
Today, your trek takes you from Kagbeni to Chaile, revealing the hidden treasures of the Mustang region. The journey unfolds at an elevation of around 3050m. Approximately 6 hours of trekking.
As the path unfolds from Chaile to Gheling, your footsteps take you deeper into the heart of Mustang’s cultural and natural treasures. The elevation rises to approximately 3700m. Approximately 5 hours of trekking.
This leg of your journey is a cultural kaleidoscope, and the elevation is about 3490m. The trek from Gheling to Ghami leads you to unique villages, allowing you to interact with friendly locals and explore the rich traditions of the region. Approximately 5 hours of trekking.
Your trek from Gheling to Tsarang, with a stopover at Dhakmar, unveils ancient monasteries. The journey, with an elevation of around 3700m, is marked by serenity and spirituality. The walking hours are dedicated to exploration and cultural enrichment. Approximately 5 hours of trekking.
Today’s trek, with an elevation of about 3810m, leads you to Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of Upper Mustang. The path takes you through a mystical realm where history and culture converge. The walking hours are designed to soak in the ambiance of this unique place. Approximately 5 hours of trekking.
Spend the day immersed in the rich tapestry of Lo Manthang. Explore monasteries, visit palaces, and be captivated by the genuine warmth of the locals. The walking hours may be flexible as you absorb the cultural and historical riches of this capital.
The trek from Lo Manthang to Yara takes you through remote villages, revealing unique cultures and traditions. Every step is a cultural revelation. The elevation hovers around 3550m, and the walking hours are planned to let you experience the heart of these villages. Approximately 6 hours of trekking.
Today, your adventure at an altitude of about 3550m is dedicated to a visit to Luri Gumba, an enigmatic cave monastery shrouded in mystery and architectural marvels. The visit might not involve extensive trekking, but it promises to be an awe-inspiring experience.
As you trek from Yara to Tange at an elevation of around 3500m, you’ll unveil the hidden beauty of the Mustang region. The rugged landscapes paint a stunning backdrop to your adventure, and the walking hours are adjusted to match the terrain and the need for exploration. Approximately 6 hours of trekking.
The trail from Tange to Tetang, at an elevation of approximately 3250m, is a 7-hour journey immersed in nature’s grandeur. Every step brings you closer to the raw beauty of this region, and the walking hours are designed to embrace the serenity of the natural world.
The trek from Tetang to Muktinath, situated at an elevation of about 3250m, takes you to a sacred oasis. Here, you’ll find solace and spirituality amidst the stunning Himalayan landscapes. The walking hours are adjusted to let you explore this holy site in peace.
As you trek from Muktinath to Jomsom, you’ll savor the grand finale of your adventure in the Mustang region. The day is marked by an elevation of around 2750m, a culmination of your remarkable journey. The walking hours are planned to enjoy the last stretch of this incredible trek. Approximately 5 hours of trekking.
Your homeward-bound journey is a dynamic blend of a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, followed by a bus ride to Kathmandu, offering a picturesque farewell to the Mustang region.
Enjoy a day of leisure in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, perfect for souvenir shopping, personal reflection, or perhaps exploring more hidden gems of the valley.
It’s time to say farewell to Nepal for this time, but your memories of the Upper Mustang Trek will forever stay with you. As you depart from Tribhuvan International Airport, you carry the spirit of the Mustang with you. The heights you’ve conquered, the cultural richness you’ve absorbed, and the walking hours you’ve trekked through have etched an unforgettable chapter in your travelogue.
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