Upper Mustang Trek

based on 1 review
Trip Information
  • Trip Duration 16 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Destination Nepal
  • Max. Altitude 3840m
  • Things To Do Trekking and Hiking
  • Best Season Mar-May | Aug-Dec

Highlights

  • Exploring the palace of king Lo Manthang, a stepping stone to the history of Lo.
  • Explore the treeless terrain via the solitary trace
  • Exploring gumbas, prayer flags, and caves offer a spiritual experience
  • Explore the cultural and everyday activities of the locals permeated by Tibetan influence
  • Captivating glimpses of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and others.

Lead your way to the Kingdom of Mustang, an enclave of hidden Buddhism. Discover the hidden valley of Upper Mustang ruled by the Lo dynasty over the years in the cultural and historical city of the dune. far more capitalized for themselves in a hidden atmosphere like a desert concerned trekkers as the historical mythology and valley of the mystery.

The trans-Himalayan region bordering Tibet is characterized by arid terrain of high cliffs, unusual rock formations, and Duned colors: the people and culture here has a Tibetan feel. Delivers various caves, rock arts, lamasery, and gumbas, as well as a chance to learn about the culture of the region while admiring panoramic views of the Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri mountains Upper Mustang Treks promises diversification.

A visit to the Upper Mustang is also a great way to learn more about the epoch-old Buddhist empire that mimics Tibet. Other highlights of the Upper Mustang trek include stunning mountain views, historic caverns, lovely monasteries, the Amchi Museum, vibrant walls, and prayer flags.

Without a doubt, Upper Mustang offers a special kind of beauty and glitz that no other trekking location in Nepal can. It is a rare gem for those looking for mystery and crafting mythological tales about the magical world.

As the trail travels through a stark landscape in the shadow of the Dhaulagiri berg, it visits Kagbeni: Gateway to Upper Mustang then goes on to Lo-Manthang, the historical seat of the Kingdom of Lo.

What to expect during Upper Mustang Trek

Trekkers weren't permitted to visit the area until the 1990s, Upper Mustang is also known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom. You may enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains, lush meadows, magnificent canyons, little towns, and other attractions in the Mustang region. Without the influence of contemporary lifestyles, people continue to live their traditional lives. You will undoubtedly be infatuated with the location due to the region's and its people's unique heritage and way of life.

However, this formerly "hidden kingdom" is evolving. The fundamental definition of a "trek" is being changed by the development of contemporary Chinese truck trade routes over old salt trade routes. With minimal regard for the ecology, roads plow straight over former trekking routes. Trekkers must endure inconvenience for at least a portion of their journey to Lo Manthang because of the long-lasting and slow construction.

Being a Dry River valley that runs north-south off the upper corner of the Annapurna Circuit. Upper Mustang Trekking destination is both socially and geologically used to shape its realm, with its capital in Lo Manthang (the circle back point of your journey). Lying in the downpour shadow of the Himalayas, and formally one of Nepal’s confined regions, known for its desert excellence and harsh, cliff-confronted geography.

Upper Mustang lies in the shadow of the Himalayas, making it an extraordinary rainstorm trek and open all year for traveling. The primary thought is the colder time of year when most inhabitants move to the city area to keep away from the cold and snow. For the most part, the best time to visit Upper Mustang is from March to early November.

Since the terrain is like a desert, growing crops and daily life could be difficult, right? But in Mustang the cultivations are smartly developed since humanity started to grow again. The specified areas near water sources coming from Mount Annapurna ranges are cultivated for sufficient production for people in Mustang.

Is Upper Mustang Trek appropriate for me?

The Upper Mustang Trek offers an exceptional chance to experience and comprehend the mountain the way of life in its unaltered nature. Geographic and diplomatic separation from the rest of the world has been essential in maintaining the region's unique culture, untouched natural resources, and historic elements of the centuries-old monastery.

The remnants of the medieval era, the vibrant prayer flags, and the riders on horses are strikingly distinct from modern civilization. Some of the eldest alpine tribe families in Mustang will allow you to contact them. You will also impart their legends and tales.

You'll be amazed by the enduring connection between people and mountains over time. Then a fresh tale is told by the royal palace, stunning ancient monasteries, the Amchi museum, and the Upper Mustang school.

With occasional off-road deviations, the Classic Route mostly stays on the road. Between Ghami and Lo Manthang, via Dhakmar and Ghar Gompa, the Western Route largely consists of an off-road portion that takes one to two days. It is advisable to tackle the Eastern Route on the way back because it is a 3-day (nearly fully) off-road track that connects Lo Manthang and Chhusang through Yara and Tangge. Instead of traveling by road to Kagbeni from Chhusang, one can hike on a path over the Gyu La to Muktinath. The Eastern Route, in our opinion, is the most scenic and difficult section of the entire walk.

Additionally, it offers close-up views of spectacular mountains including the Nilgiri Himal, Mt. Dhaulagiri, and Mt. Annapurna. Your breath will be taken away by the legendary village strolls as well as the enigmatic caverns, carvings, and historic monasteries.

Itinerary
Expand All Collapse All

The representative from our office will pick you up at the Tribhuwan International Airport. Following that, you'll check into your hotel, freshen up, and take a rest. Short-term in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: N/A
  • Max. Altitude: 1310m

Subsequently to eating, we leave for Pokhara: The City of Lake at that point. Upon our appearance in Pokhara, we are compensated with grand views of the Himalayas, including Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and others. We then, at that point, register at our inn and take a rest. We appreciate drifting in the Fewa Lake and walking around the city's curious roads. Overnight in Pokhara.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Max. Altitude: 822m

Toward the beginning of today, we get up significantly before getting the sharp departure from Pokhara to Jomsom. We were touring via plane! This astounding short flight takes through the mountains to Mustang's intriguing business sector town. The fascinating climb to Kagbeni is an easy but exciting hike after passing through town, over a bridge, and then directly onto the trail. This midday there is an ideal opportunity to investigate the little and exceptionally one-of-a-kind town of Kagbeni with its walled sections and abnormal dirt likenesses brightening the dividers. Short-term in Kagbeni.

  • Accommodation: Lodge House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 2800m

We have our permit looked at then start our trip on a path close to the Kali Gandaki Waterway. We stroll on the sand amid solid breezes before climbing on a slope. We arrive at Tangbe Town and appreciate its tight back streets, white-washed houses, grain and buckwheat fields, and apple plantations. We walk, pass one more town, and cross a stream. Then, we stroll on the edge before arriving at Chele Town. Short-term in Chele.

  • Accommodation: Lodge House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3050m

Today's journey includes crossing two passes, Taklam La pass (3,624m) and Dajori La pass (3,735m). On the way, we admire the exceptional views of Tilicho, Yaskawa Kang, and Damodar Danda and pass by Ramchung Cave. We slide further and arrive at Samar village. From here we stroll on a path over the town and arrive at an edge. Then, we drop on a lofty way to a stream and proceed with our journey to Syanboche. We will rest in Syanboche.

  • Accommodation: Lodge House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3470m

We rise to the Yamada La pass at an altitude of 3,850 m. We pass by a couple of teahouses, chortens, and lovely villages on the way. We journey across poplar woodlands and grain fields and arrive at Nyi Pass at 4,010m. From here, we slip to Ghami which is probably the greatest village in the Lo area. The village is excellent with fields encompassing the whole town. Short-term in Ghami.

  • Accommodation: Lodge House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3560m

Our trip today starts with a descent through a harsh and regularly slippery path. We then, at that point, get a suspension overpass over the Ghami Khola and start rising. The pathway is delightful with mani walls along the path. Then, we cross the Tsarang La Pass at 3870m and arrive at Tsarang village. The town lies on the Charang Chu gulch with a gigantic fortification and a red Gumba towards its east. Overnight in Tsarang.

  • Accommodation: Lodge House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3620m

We start our trip by plunging into a canyon and crossing a stream prior to starting our arduous journey to Lo La pass (3950 m). From the highest point of the pass, we can admire the wonderful Lo Manthang town. From the pass, we plunge to Lo Manthang which is an excellent walled village. From here the scenario on the Himalayas including Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna I, Bhrikuti Peak along with Damodar Kunda (lake) is very mesmerizing. Short-term in Lo-Manthang.

  • Accommodation: Lodge House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3840m

Lo Manthang is a walled town in the far-off Upper Mustang district. We go through the day visiting three significant gumbas of the city in particular Jhampa, Thupchen, and Chhoeda. These gumbas have gone through master reclamation throughout the most recent decades. We can likewise trip to Tingkhar: a delightful town the northwest of Lo-Manthang. Spend the night in Lo Manthang.

  • Accommodation: Lodge House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3840m

We journey on an alternate course while getting back from Lo-Manthang. Our path goes through Gyakar town which houses extremely old Ghar Gumba with lovely stone works of art. As indicated by a legend, any individual who makes a wish at the Gumba will have it satisfied. We investigate the Gumba and proceed with our trip to Drakmar for an overnight stay.

  • Accommodation: Lodge House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3700m

We start our journey right on time to keep away from solid breezes and generally dive off the trip. Our path goes through a dry level and fields prior to arriving at Ghiling. The walk can be moderately troublesome as we will probably encounter solid breezes all over. Ghiling is for the most part dry, however, we actually get great views of the Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mountains. We can visit the town in the evening. Short-term in Ghiling.

  • Accommodation: Lodge House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3570m

We start our journey after breakfast and stroll on a similar path as prior to going up to Lo Manthang. While heading to Chhuksang, we can appreciate extraordinary scenes on the Himalayas and the little towns we pass in transit. Short-term in Chhuksang.

  • Accommodation: Lodge House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3022m

A long one and the last day of our trek. In the wake of journeying for some time, we reach a conclusion of our Mustang trails and join the paths of the Annapurna circuit. We do lunch at Kagbeni and proceed with our trip to Jomsom for a night stay.

  • Accommodation: Lodge House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 2713m

We take an early morning trip to Pokhara. After showing up in Pokhara, we can use whatever might remain of the day in the roaming natural city of paradise. Spend the night in Pokhara.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 822m

After breakfast, we bid farewell to the beautiful northern horizon of Pokhara and drive toward Kathmandu. After arriving in Kathmandu, we rest or do some trinket shopping. To commend the effective finish of our excursion, we will have a goodbye supper in the evening. Spend a night in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 1310m

Our representative will take you to the air terminal before the booked flight. On your flight back home, you take with us astonishing recollections of our Lo Manthang outing and Nepal.

  • Accommodation: N/A
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Max. Altitude: N/A
Cost Includes
  • Airport Transport (Pickup and Drop)
  • All Ground Transportation
  • 1 Domestic Flight for Bronze (Pokhara-Jomsom)
  • 3 Domestic Flight for Silver (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara)
  • All Domestic Flight for Gold (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara-Kathmandu)
  • Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with Breakfast (Twin Sharing Basis)
  • Tea House Accommodation en route on Twin Sharing Basis
  • All necessary Trekking Permits and National Park Entry fees
  • Government Licensed and Experienced English-speaking Guide
  • Porter Service (1 porter for 2 pax)
  • 3 meals during the trekking route (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
  • Local and Government Tax
  • Complementary Company Cap and Certificate of Completion
  • First Aid Medical Kit (Carried by Guide)
  • Documentation and Rescue Arrangements
  • Farewell Dinner with Cultural program

We Care About Budget Travelers. You can reduce your cost with a Guide who will also Carry your Bag. This will be best to reduce the cost of Porter.

You can customize your Trip as per your Travel Plan and the days you have. We will totally handcraft your itinerary from Scratch and provide you with a custom cost for the Trek.

Cost Excludes
  • Extra night accommodation, Meals, and Sightseeing in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain (due to any reason) in addition to the scheduled itinerary
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu except for Farewell Dinner
  • Travel Insurance
  • International Airfare
  • Nepal Visa and Entry Fees
  • Trekking Gears and Equipment
  • Private room Accommodation (This does not apply to Solo Travelers)
  • Tips for Guide and Porter (Expected as a Gesture)
  • Hot Water Shower, Extra Drinks, and Beverage, Water
  • Internet and Phone Bills (Wi-fi is free sometimes)
  • Personal Expenses (Energy Bar, Snacks, etc.)
  • Anything not mentioned in Cost Includes Section

We can also help you Hire equipment at an affordable cost for a day's basis payment.

  1. Down Jacket (1.5 USD per day)
  2. Sleeping Bag (2 USD per day)
Trip Details

Upper Mustang Trek Difficulty

Upper Mustang Trek is of moderate difficulty. Each day's average trekking time is 4 to 7 hours, with several breaks to take in the breathtaking mountain vistas. Although prior hiking experience would be advantageous, no technical knowledge or abilities are required. This walk can be finished by hikers who can go 5 to 6 hours each day at a manageable pace while carrying only a small daypack.

Therefore, you should be in reasonable shape and ready for lengthy travels. Physical exertion is increased when trekking at higher elevations compared to lower altitudes.

Exercising and jogging frequently for a few weeks before the trip is wonderful ideas to increase stamina. Please be aware that you will enjoy the walk more if you are physically fit. You must be in good health and have an optimistic perspective, self-confidence, and a strong sense of determination to participate in our Upper Mustang Trek. Before signing up for the walk, those with delicate pre-existing medical issues like heart, lung, and blood disease should let us know.

Accommodation while trekking to Upper Mustang

When you go hiking or trekking in the Upper Mustang, you may anticipate staying in a respectable hotel in Pokhara and teahouses while you are out on the trail. Expecting a luxurious experience in Nepal is unrealistic, regardless of where you stay. Although the accommodations are rather basic, they are ideal for individuals who need to rest their legs after hiking and trekking.

There will be a certain amount of comfort. They are cozy to the extent that you have a bed to sleep in and a kitchen to prepare meals in. The bedrooms typically feature two beds with mattresses, pillows, and blankets and are unheated. You must bring a sleeping bag (three seasons is good), and we also advise bringing a pillowcase. The lodges typically offer gas-powered showers and primarily utilize sit-down flush toilets (some lodges do also have squat toilets).

Local families who have offered their homes to passing hikers manage the tea houses. These days, there are a lot of teahouses in the Upper Mustang. As they are more difficult to provide, they may be a little smaller and more basic than in certain trekking destinations that are more well-known.

Foods during Upper Mustang Region

Although the food during the Upper Mustang walk is traditional and distinctive, it is also possible to find Western food, traditional Nepali food, and other options. Three meals are provided each day. There will be oatmeal, cornflakes, milk porridge, and tea on the breakfast menu. For lunch, one can have Dal Bhat, a traditional dish, or something else like pizza, noodles, or sandwiches. A staple of the Nepali diet is Dal Bhat. Rice is referred to as Bhat and lentils as dal. This is accompanied by curries, pickles, eggs, etc. When eating Dal Bhat, there is the chance for a free refill, and it offers a lot of the energy needed for the hike.

In the evening, one can eat Dal Bhat once more or other dishes like momos, fried dumplings, Tibetan noodle soup, etc. Dinner is served upon visitor arrival, and the lunch and dinner menus are very similar.

Although hikers in Upper Mustang can purchase a variety of foods, it is best to bring chocolates, granola bars, or other nourishing foods. There are fewer price swings despite the slightly higher cost of food here. Since cross-border trading, Chinese consumer goods have also started to become more widely accessible.

Water and Hydration during Upper Mustang Trek

In Upper Mustang, it is possible to get bottled water, although it is expensive, costing between USD 2 and USD 5 per bottle. Upper Mustang has a very small number of natural water sources. However, there are free water refill stations at the communal taps found in every village. While trekking in Upper Mustang, you must have water purification tablets with you. When trekking over the eastern path, it is best to have water that will last the entire day because there may not be any water sources after leaving Yara and Tangge. It's important to drink plenty of water because Upper Mustang is hot and dry.

Best Season for Upper Mustang Trekking

The Upper Mustang will immediately cross your mind if you're seeking the ideal place to go trekking in Nepal during the summer. You may enjoy beautiful days and low humidity this time of year because the Upper Mustang is in the Annapurna’s' rain shadow. Surprisingly, the summertime is also comparatively peaceful. Your teahouses will be the finest. The spring and fall seasons are the busiest ones.

The Tiji Festival takes place in May. The adventure of trekking is sometimes combined with this customary holiday. On the grounds of the former royal palace of Mustang, a three-day celebration is held. Locals from all over the country travel to Lo Manthang (Upper Mustang) to take part in the event. Winter trekking is also possible in the Upper Mustang, but you'll need to make sure you have the necessary equipment.

Equipments

Below are very critical and essential trekking equipment list 

  • Daypack (25–35 liters), Pack cover, Comfortable Sleeping Bag (Depends upon the season, weather forecast, and personal preference), and it is possible to rent it from Kathmandu which cost 2$ per day.
  • Crampons, Headlamp/flashlight, and extra batteries
  • High-Quality Trekking Shoes, Camp shoes (Down Booties or Running Shoes)
  • Warm clothing (fleece, down jacket, thermals)
  • Rain gear (jacket, pants)
  • Camelbak water bladder or sipper (water bottle) and purification tablets/straw.
  • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
  • Maps and compass or GPS device
  • Trekking poles (optional)

Besides the Essentials list of Equipments and Packing, some other packing lists can come in handy for you in different situations in the Himalayas.

  • Sleeping pad and Insect repellent
  • Food and snacks
  • Multi-tool or Easy knife
  • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, etc.)
  • Cash, credit card, and documents (passport, visa, travel insurance, etc.)
  • Extra batteries or Solar charger
  • Portable water filter or purification system
  • Emergency whistle and Signal mirror
  • Trash Bag

It is important to note that the specific requirements for long journey treks may vary based on the destination and the duration of the trek. Hence, it is always advisable to consult a local guide or trekking company to have a comprehensive understanding of the equipment needed for a particular trek.

Also, check the weather conditions and specific requirements for the trek you plan to undertake and pack accordingly.

Client Reviews
  • D

    Trip to Mustang

    The trip was well organised covering all the tourist traps. Guide was very knowledgeable and his explanation helped us to understand the history, culture and importance of places. Also, choice of hotel, fooding and travel vehicle was more than i expected. I totally recommend this tour agency for anyone travelling Nepal. Thank you Lets Trek Himalays for memorable experience.

    TripAdvisor
    Dave, wrote a review on Sep 2022Mauritius

Send Inquiry