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Upper Mustang Trekking

from 25 reviews
Best Price
Price starting from

$0 USD 1,799

per person

Duration

17 days

Max. Elevation

3940.00m

Group size

2+

Level
MODERATE
Transportation
Private Vehicle/ Tourist Bus/Flight
Best Season
March-June and September- November
Accomodation
Double/Twin shearing in hotel/lodge
Meals
Breakfast basis in city-full board during the trek
Starts at
Kathmandu
Ends at
Kathmandu
Trip Route
Kathmandu-Pokhara-Jomsom-Kagbeni-Chussang-Samar-Ghiling-Tsarang-Lo Manthang-Ghami-Samar-Kagbeni-Jomsom-Pokhara-Kathmandu

Highlights


The renowned Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal takes you through the wild Upper Mustang region, which was formerly a distinct monarchy inside Nepal. The hike is a rare chance to investigate the long-forgotten customs and cultures of the Mustang region, which has been cut off from the rest of Nepal for generations.

  • Discover Lo Manthang, an ancient city that served as the old kingdom of Mustang's capital.
  • Visit the stunning monasteries and temples in the area, such as the Thubchen Gompa from the 14th century and the Jhong Cave Monastery from the 15th.
  • Take a stroll through Upper Mustang's high-altitude desert habitat, which is home to numerous unusual flora and animals.
  • Discover the customs of the residents of Mustang, who are renowned for their vibrant culture and distinctive Tibetan-style buildings.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan Mountain range, which includes Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna South.
  • Discover the distinct hospitality and culture of the Mustang region, which is renowned for its kind and inviting inhabitants.


‘on an old Trans Himalayan Salt Trade Caravan Route of Nepal to Tibet’


Introduction


The history of Mustang is based more on myth and legend than on recorded detail. Mustang maintained its status as a separate principality until 1951. The ex-king of Mustang still retains his title, and he has been given cultural respect. Upper Mustang Trekking starts from Kagbeni and continues to the world’s highest valley, Lo-Manthang, with panoramic views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other Himalayan peaks.

You can either fly from Pokhara to Jomsom and then trek for two hours to Kagbeni, or you can also drive from Pokhara to Kagbeni. Normally, the Upper Mustang Trek is not for backpackers because of its expensive permit cost. You can’t issue the permit on your own; instead, it has to be applied for by an authorized local operator from Nepal.

In the past, the Nepalese area of the Upper Mustang was a stand-alone kingdom. Upper Mustang, which is in the northwest of the nation, is bordered by Tibet and has a long cultural and historical history there. The area is well known for its unusual Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions as well as its high-altitude desert terrain.

The Upper Mustang Trek is a well-known trekking path that passes through the area and gives you the chance to discover the historic city of Lo Manthang, pay a visit to monasteries and temples, and gain knowledge of the locals' customary way of life. The walk also provides the opportunity to explore the distinct culture and friendliness of the area, as well as the breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan Mountain range.

There are many reasons why you might want to consider traveling to Upper Mustang:


Richness in culture and history: Unlike the rest of Nepal, Upper Mustang has a distinct culture and history. The area originally contained a separate kingdom, and it has a close cultural and historical tie to Tibet. You may discover and engage with this distinctive culture firsthand by visiting Upper Mustang.
Natural splendor: A variety of unusual plants and animals can be found in Upper Mustang's high-altitude desert habitat. Beautiful views of the Himalayan Mountain range, including Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri, are also available in the area.

Adventure: The Upper Mustang Trek takes you through the isolated area of the Upper Mustang and is a difficult and rewarding hiking path. The trek gives you the chance to test your physical stamina while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the area.

Hospitality: The residents of Mustang are renowned for their warmth and friendliness. You may get a first-hand look at Upper Mustang's distinctive culture and hospitality by traveling there.

Personal development: Visiting a new location and becoming immersed in a new culture may be a profoundly enlightening and life-changing experience. You can discover more about an alternative way of life and develop fresh perspectives on the world by traveling to Upper Mustang.

The best season for the Upper Mustang Trek


Depending on your interests and the kind of experience you're looking for, there is no one perfect time to go on the Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal. The Upper Mustang region's trekking season typically lasts from April to November, with September to November being the finest months to travel there. This is the best time of year to go hiking because the weather is clear and dry. Due to the potential for landslides and severe rains during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to August, it is typically not a favorable time to travel.

If you prefer colder temperatures, you could visit in April or May, just before the monsoon season. Even if there are fewer people and the temperatures are cooler at this time of year, it may still rain. The Upper Mustang region experiences winter from December to March, when temperatures can drop very low, but skies are frequently beautiful and the scenery is breathtaking. Remember that winter may be rather chilly as well, so it's necessary to be prepared with appropriate clothing and equipment.

Is this trip right for you?


Since everyone has different travel interests and preferences, it's challenging for me to say whether or not an Upper Mustang trip would be appropriate for you. When determining if an Upper Mustang trip is appropriate for you, take into account the following factors:

Physical fitness: The Upper Mustang Trip takes you through high-altitude terrain and is a strenuous trek. To appreciate the trek to its fullest, you should be physically active and at a moderate level of fitness.

Cultural sensitivity: The region of Upper Mustang has a distinct culture and way of life. When visiting the area, it's crucial to have an open mind and respect for the native way of life.Interest in adventure and exploration: An Upper Mustang tour can be a good fit for you if you appreciate discovering new places and getting to know other cultures.

Comfortable with distant travel: The journey takes you through secluded areas in Upper Mustang, a rural part of Nepal. It's critical to feel at ease with the thought of being in a more remote and undeveloped area.

Budget: Because of the isolated location, the requirement for specialized guides, and the cost of transportation, an Upper Mustang excursion may be more expensive. When determining if an Upper Mustang excursion is ideal for you, it's crucial to take your budget into account.

Ultimately, your personal interests and situation will determine whether or not an Upper Mustang trip is appropriate for you.

What to expect in the upper Mustang?


When visiting Upper Mustang, you may anticipate the following:

Remote area: The walk takes you through isolated places in Nepal's Upper Mustang province. It's critical to feel at ease with the thought of being in a more remote and undeveloped area.

Richness in culture and history: Unlike the rest of Nepal, Upper Mustang has a distinct culture and history. The area originally contained a separate kingdom, and it has a close cultural and historical tie to Tibet. You may anticipate discovering and engaging with this distinctive culture firsthand.

Natural beauty: The high-altitude desert landscape of Upper Mustang is home to a variety of rare plants and animals. The region also offers stunning views of the Himalayan Mountain range, including Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri.

Adventure: The Upper Mustang Trek takes you through the isolated area of Upper Mustang and is a difficult and rewarding hiking path. Expect to test your physical boundaries while exploring the area's stunning surroundings.

Hospitality: The residents of Mustang are renowned for their warmth and friendliness. You may anticipate getting a close-up look at their distinctive culture and hospitality.
Personal development: Visiting a new location and becoming immersed in a new culture may be a profoundly enlightening and life-changing experience. You can discover more about an alternative way of life and develop fresh perspectives on the world by traveling to Upper Mustang.

Upper Mustang's local culture and religion


It's crucial to respect local customs and beliefs if you're visiting Upper Mustang. This includes avoiding public displays of affection, dressing modestly, and taking off your shoes before visiting temples and monasteries. Additionally, it's a good idea to be open-minded and educate yourself on the customs and culture of the area. Nepal's Upper Mustang has its own culture and way of life. Tibetan Buddhism has had a significant impact on the local culture, which has deep cultural and historical ties to Tibet.

The majority of the inhabitants of Upper Mustang are Buddhist, and the area is home to a number of monasteries and temples that are significant to the local way of life. Examples include the Thubchen Gompa and the Jhong Cave Monastery.

The majority of Upper Mustang's inhabitants work as farmers and herders on a daily basis. The main industries in the area are agriculture and animal husbandry. Upper Mustang residents are renowned for their strong sense of community and for leading traditional lives.

It's crucial to keep in mind that lodging in Upper Mustang is typically simpler and more rural than you may be accustomed to. Some locations might not have electricity or hot showers, and the restrooms might be rudimentary. To enjoy the walk to the fullest, it is advisable to be prepared and adaptable.

Upper Mustang climatic and weather conditions


Depending on the season, Upper Mustang experiences a variety of climates. The area experiences warm days and mild nights in a dry, arid climate.

The area is covered in wildflowers and enjoys excellent weather from March through May. Around 20 °C (68 °F) is the usual daytime temperature, and 5 °C (41 °F) is the typical nighttime temperature. The summer months of June through August are hot and dry, with highs of 35 °C (95 °F) during the daytime.

The weather is chilly and dry from September through November, with temperatures ranging from 5 °C (41 °F) to 20 °C (68 °F). The weather is cold and dry from December to February, with lows of -10°C (14°F) and highs of 5°C (41°F). Higher elevations may have snow.

It's crucial to pack appropriately and be ready for a variety of temperatures. Bring plenty of warm clothing for the evenings, and be ready for any weather changes. To protect oneself from the sun, it's also a good idea to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

Accommodation facilities at Upper Mustang


In the Nepalese region of Upper Mustang, there are numerous lodging alternatives. You will have the option to stay in a variety of lodges and guesthouses while on your hike. These lodgings are often modest, but they offer a cozy spot to unwind and recuperate after a day of hiking.

You might be able to discover more opulent lodging options, such as hotels and guesthouses, in the bigger villages and cities. Private rooms with connected baths are typical in these establishments, along with extras like hot water and electricity. It is also possible to camp in the Upper Mustang region, though this is not advised for everyone due to the possible lack of facilities and the potentially chilly nighttime temperatures.

It is significant to note that lodging options and standards might differ greatly in the Upper Mustang area, so it is advisable to have reasonable expectations and be ready for a variety of circumstances. In order to guarantee that you will have a place to stay when you arrive, it is also a good idea to make your hotel reservations in advance.

How should you prepare for the upper Mustang trek?


Consider the following when getting ready for an Upper Mustang Trek:

Physical fitness: The Upper Mustang Trip takes you through high-altitude terrain and is a strenuous trek. To appreciate the trek to its fullest, you should be physically active and at a moderate level of fitness. In the months before the vacation, think about including cardio and strength training in your program.

Acclimatization to altitude: Because Upper Mustang is at a high altitude, it's crucial to give your body enough time to adjust to the smoky air. To give your body time to acclimate, think about spending a few days in Kathmandu, which is at a lower altitude, before beginning the journey. Pack sensibly by including warm layers for the evenings in addition to lightweight, comfortable apparel and shoes. To protect oneself from the sun, it's also a good idea to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

Obtain the required licenses: You will require a special permit from the Nepalese government to enter Upper Mustang. Make sure to set this up before leaving for your trip.

Purchase travel insurance: Purchasing travel insurance is a smart option in the event of any unanticipated events, such as illness or injury.
Read the fine print carefully and choose an insurance policy that meets your needs.

Keep up with health advice: Before traveling to Nepal, be careful to check with your doctor and abide by any health advice.
Taking any necessary medications on the trip is also a smart idea.

Insurance for traveling to the Upper Mustang


For your Upper Mustang Trek, it is a good idea to obtain travel insurance, as it can offer protection in the event of unforeseen circumstances, including trip cancellation, medical problems, and lost or stolen property. If you need to cancel your trip or if something goes wrong while you are traveling, travel insurance can help you recover some or all of your expenses.

There are numerous different types of travel insurance policies available, so it's crucial to read the terms and conditions of a policy in detail before buying it.
Choose a policy with enough medical coverage in case of injury or illness and coverage for the specific activities you will be engaging in, such as hiking and camping.
Checking with your travel agent or tour operator to see whether they include any insurance coverage in their package is another smart move.

Electricity, Battery, and Charging


There may not be much electricity or charging stations available in Nepal's Upper Mustang.
The availability and dependability of electricity can vary, although many of the hotels and guesthouses in the area have generators that supply power for a few hours at night. To make sure you have a backup power source for your electronic gadgets, it is a good idea to pack a power bank or portable charger.

You might be able to find accommodations with more dependable electricity, including hotels and guesthouses, in the larger villages and cities. You might be able to charge your devices at these locations using the outlets.

However, it is still advisable to have a backup power source, such as a power bank or portable charger, in case there are any power interruptions.
It is also important to keep in mind that the weather might have an impact on the availability of energy in the Upper Mustang region, as the area is vulnerable to power outages during the monsoon season (June to August) due to severe rains and landslides.

Communication via cellular connection and wi-fi at the upper Mustang Trek


It can be difficult to find Wi-Fi and cellular service in Nepal's Upper Mustang. Cellular coverage is available in some places, but the signal quality varies widely.
Generally speaking, it is recommended to avoid depending on cellular service while on your walk and to have a backup plan in case of disruptions. Additionally, Wi-Fi is scarce in the Upper Mustang region.

Wi-Fi may be available in some hotels and guesthouses; however, the connection could be sluggish and intermittent. A backup communication device, such as a satellite phone, is a smart idea in case you ever need to contact someone in an emergency.

It is important to keep in mind that there is a lack of communication infrastructure in the Upper Mustang region, so it is best to plan for the prospect of being cut off from the outside world while on your trek.

Additionally, it's a good idea to let your family and friends know what you'll be doing and to designate an emergency contact person.

Trip Itinerary

Day

1

Up on arrival you will be picked up at the international airport in Kathmandu and transferred to the hotel by our airport representative. Check in hotel and refreshment, leisure afternoon and explore the town. Later on this evening, you will be picked up from your hotel for a cultural dinner. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Day

2

Breakfast in Hotel, today you have a full day guided sightseeing tour to the Buddhist and Hindu sights in Kathmandu, probably to Durbar Square, then visit “Swyambhunath” a Holy sight of Hinduism and Buddhism also known as “the monkey temple” as a large number of holy monkeys are living in the north-west part of the temple.

Next, you will be taken to “Pashupatinath a sacred Hindu temple situated on the bank of the Bagmati River. You will then be driven to “Boddhanath Stupa” one of the biggest and oldest stupas in the world. Later in the afternoon, there will be a pre-trip meeting with your trekking guide in your hotel. Our office representative will brief you regarding the trek as well as provide you the opportunity to ask any questions about the upcoming trip. Second overnight in Kathmandu.

Day

3

Breakfast in Hotel, today an early morning according to given time your trekking guide pick you up from the hotel and transfer to the tourist bus station for the scenic countryside drive to the lakeside city of Pokhara. Check in hotel and refreshment, leisure afternoon and explore the town. Stay overnight at the hotel in Pokhara.

Note: You can fly to Pokhara which takes 35min

Day

4

Breakfast in Hotel/pack breakfast, as per your flight time you will be received from the hotel and transfer to the airport for short but scenic flight to Jomsom. On your arrival in Jomsom, you will have some time to be ready; porter will prepare your baggage.

The adventure starts with pleasant walk enjoying an excellent view of mountains include Nilgiri at the front and Dhaulagiri at the back. Trek towards Kagbeni along the Kali Gandaki River through the dry landscape. Check in hotel and refreshment, leisure afternoon and explore the town. Kagbeni is a small village border of Lower Mustang and Upper Mustang, Located in the valley of the Kali Gandaki River. Dinner at the lodge, Stay overnight in Kagbeni.

Day

5

Breakfast in Hotel, after check the permit the adventure start with uphill trail leaving Kali Gandaki River behind for a while. The path leads to harsh barren countryside all the way with occasional stop, passing through few small villages as the walk progress coming to the village Tangbe, another hour of good walk from Tangbe reach Chusang. Check in hotel, refreshment and explore the town. Stay overnight at the tea house in Chussang.

Day

6

Breakfast in Hotel, today walk leads first to Chele village after crossing the stream through the broken canyons and ruin castle walls on the surrounding cliffs, across the river from Chussang are some spectacular red eroded cliffs above the mouths of inaccessible caves.

After crossing the small bridge an uphill walk for 45 minutes brings you to Chele village. From Chele village the walk gets steeper for an hour up to the ridge at 3,130m, from here you can get a good view of Gyagar across a huge canyon. The trek continues with a slow climb on the windswept terrain till the pass is reached at 3,540m. From here the trail stars gradual up to Samar. Later in the afternoon, you will have some time to explore the town. Dinner at Hotel and stay overnight at the tea house in Samar.

Day

7

Breakfast in Hotel, today after breakfast the trail start short climb above Sami village to a ridge and downhill leading to a large gorge past a Chorten. The walk continues into another valley with juniper trees, after crossing the stream the walk follows the uphill path to a ridge at 3,800m, the trail climbs over to another pass, from here the route descends to Shyangmochen, a small settlement with few tea shops. The trek continues to a gentle up and down the hill through the wide valley to Ghiling. While you are in Ghiling village you will check in hotel, refreshment and explore the town. Dinner and stay overnight at the tea house in Ghiling.

Day

8

Breakfast in Lodge, the trek started with gradually climbs through the fields up the center of the valley, passing below the settlements, the walk continues a long climb across the head of the valley to the Nyi La pass 3,950m, the highest point of this trek. The pass itself happens to be the southern boundary of Lo. From here a slow descend for half hour brings to the junction; the right path leads directly to Tsarang while the left leads to Ghami village one of the main majors of Lo region. From here the final climb of the brings to a 3,600m pass, after the last pass a gentle descent leads to the Tsarang, Tsarang is the very interesting village. Dinner and stay overnight at the tea house in Trang.

Day

9

Breakfast in Lodge, today the trail goes up and down through the several interesting villages, along with the river and nice and big Chorten. This walk offers the nice view of the mountain and great wide windswept landscape with cross several passes. Finally reach the Lomanthang, the capital of Upper Mustang hidden kingdom of Nepal. Check in hotel, refreshment and explore the surrounding area. Dinner and stay overnight at the tea house in Lo Manthan.

Day

10

Breakfast in Lodge, This is one of the largest villages in this trek, about 160 houses and the number of residents for the lamas. The school, health post, police post and several important Chortens are located outside the walls to the north of the gate and east of the monastic part of the city. The people are very friendly and interesting here in Lo Manthang. Today you will be busy visit in and around this area for different activities. Stay overnight at the tea house in Lo Manthang.

Day

11

Breakfast in Lodge, today the trail more descend and less short climb all the way to Ghami, cross few passes with nice view of the valley and mountain. Once reach at the Ghami you will have to explore in and around. It has many important things to see. Stay overnight at the tea house or tent.

Day

12

Today after breakfast, we re-trace back to Samar. Today the trail less ascend and more descend with a nice view of the mountain range. Stay overnight at the tea house or tent.

Day

13

Re-trace back to Kagbeni, more descend and less ascends. Stay overnight at the tea house.

Day

14

Re-trace back to Jomsom, very gradual walk along the Kali-Gandaki Valley. This trek offers the fantastic view of the Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri Mountain. Stay overnight at the tea house.

Day

15

Today an early morning breakfast at the hotel your guide will take you to the airport for short but scenic flight to the Pokhara. Leisure day in Pokhara. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Day

16

After the wonderful time in and around Pokhara, today after breakfast you will transfer to the tourist bus station for day countryside drive back to Kathmandu. Stay overnight at hotel.

Note: You can fly to Pokhara which takes 35min

Day

17

Today you will transfer to the International airport for final departure.

Inclusions

Includes

  • All airport pick up drop by private vehicle
  • 03-night twin/double shearing deluxe accommodation on BB in Kathmandu
  • Guided sightseeing tours with the private vehicle in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu by deluxe tourist bus (if you want both way flight or private vehicle also available at additional cost)
  • 02-night twin/double shearing deluxe accommodation on BB in Pokhara
  • Pokhara to Jomsom to Pokhara by flight
  • ACAP Permit and Special permit for upper mustang trek for 10 days
  • Accommodation in the mountain during the trekking
  • Three meals a day; breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner and tea/coffee during the trekking
  • A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, Transport, and insurance.
  • 02 guest=01 porter with their Insurance, Salary, Food, accommodation, and equipment
  • Safe drinking water
  • All applicable government and local taxes per the itinerary

Excludes

  • Nepal Visa fee (Bring accurate fee in USD and two Passport size Photo)
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu (no need to pay the departure tax for international flight)
  • Dinner and lunch in Kathmandu and in Pokhara
  • Personal travel and health Insurance, Insurance for helicopter evacuation
  • Extra night accommodation and lunch and dinner in the city because of early arrival, late departure and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, baggage charge, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
  • Tips to the trekking crews and drive
  • Extra expenses due to flight delays, strikes, weather condition or any event out of our control
  • Anything not included in service includes the column 

Complimentary

  • Welcome dinner in Authentic Restaurant
  • first aid kit box
  • Holiday Tours Nepal’s sleeping bag, down jackets, Ti-shart, Cap, duffle bags, city and trekking route maps – if necessary.
  • Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company)
  • Oxymeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily during the trek (very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms). This helps ensure your trek is in the safest hands possible.
  • One-hour complimentary spa/massage in Kathmandu after the trek

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