Upper Mustang

Hidden in the far north of Nepal, Upper Mustang is a unique place to trek, filled with both natural beauty and rich culture. Known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom”, it was closed to foreigners until 1992. Today, it offers a special trekking adventure with Tibetan-Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, and stunning landscapes. While there are motor roads on this trail, there are many options to skip walking beside them.

Getting There

To reach Upper Mustang, you usually fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, and then take another flight to Jomsom, or travel overland as an option. The trek begins from Jomsom or Kagbeni in general, but you can also drive further if needed, following the Kali Gandaki River valley into the heart of Mustang.

Highlights of the Trek

1. Lo Manthang:

This walled city is the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Lo. Its old palaces, monasteries, and narrow streets show a world from the past. The Tiji Festival held yearly, is a colorful celebration with traditional Tibetan rituals and dances. Nowadays, the city has expanded beyond the walls.

2. Unique Landscape:

The dry, windy terrain of Upper Mustang is like nowhere else in Nepal. With very colorful cliffs, deep canyons, and eroded hills, all set against the backdrop of the Himalayas, the scenery feels almost otherworldly.

3. Ancient Monasteries:

Upper Mustang is home to some of the oldest monasteries in the world. The Thubchen and Jampa monasteries in Lo Manthang, Ghar Gumba, and others are filled with beautiful frescoes and ancient relics, making them must-see spots. Every village on this trek has its own local monastery!

4. Nepal’s Longest Mani Wall in Ghami Village:

Ghami is home to Nepal’s longest mani wall, a significant Buddhist monument made of stone tablets inscribed with prayers and mantras. It is an impressive sight and a testament to the spiritual heritage of the region.

5. Yara-Ghara:

The Yara and Ghara villages offer unique experiences with their ancient cave dwellings and stunning rock formations. These villages provide a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and architecture of the Mustang region.

6. Tibetan Culture:

Close to Tibet, Upper Mustang has a culture deeply influenced by Tibetan traditions. Trekking here lets you see Tibetan Buddhist practices, traditional clothing, Tibetan-styled kitchens and foods, and a way of life that has stayed the same for centuries.

More Details...

Trekking Duration
The trek through Upper Mustang usually takes 12 to 15 days. This gives you enough time to see the main sights and enjoy the local culture. We can provide individual itineraries to our clients based on their available time, fitness level, and interests.

Best Time to Visit:
The best times to trek in Upper Mustang are from March to early June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is stable, the skies are clear, and the temperatures are comfortable.

Trekking permits
To trek in Upper Mustang, you need a special permit because it is a restricted area. The permit costs USD 500 per person for the first 10 days and USD 50 for each additional day. You must also have a registered guide, and at least two trekkers are needed to get the permit. And additionally, you need to get the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Projest) entry permit (Around $22-24) as well.

Tips for Trekkers

Physical Fitness:Even beginners can trek this route with enough time.
Altitude Sickness:Be aware of altitude sickness and take precautions like acclimatizing properly and staying hydrated. Compared to other treks, this trek has fewer chances of AMS.
Pack Wisely: Bring the right gear, including warm and windproof clothes, sturdy trekking boots, and essential supplies.
Respect Local Culture: Upper Mustang is rich in cultural heritage. Respect local customs and traditions for a positive experience for both you and the local community.

Conclusion:

Upper Mustang is a place of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Trekking through this ancient kingdom is a journey through stunning landscapes and a glimpse into a world that has remained mostly unchanged. Whether you love trekking or are interested in culture, the Upper Mustang trek is an unforgettable experience. You must do it once in a lifetime—you won’t regret it!

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