Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang, formally known as Kingdom of Lo is an isolated part of Mustang that remained untouched by modernity and outside world, where majority of people still speaks Tibetan dialect and follows Tibetan culture and religion. Upper Mustang trek was restricted until 1992 which makes it highly preserved region of Nepal in term of culture, religion and landscape. Mustang is nestled in the rain shadow area of Dhaulagiri range creating huge arid land engulfed by rocky terrain in different colors and impressive formation. Upper Mastang is maximally dotted with white washed houses, barren fields and Chorten embellished with prayer flags. Life in Mustang is totally dependent around tourism, animal husbandry and trade. The inhabitants of Upper Mustang are Thakali, Gurung and Tibetan.

The trail meanders through ancient salt trade route which is basically used by the people of Mustang to trade salt from lowlands. Trekking in Upper Mustang in many ways resembles to trekking in Tibet as it is closely tied to Tibetan geography, culture and language. The main aim of the trek is an ancient capital Lo Manthang, the home place of last king of Mustang. Lo Manthang is the magical world of narrow alley way, Chorten and long wall with prayer wheels. Trekking in this lost world of Tibet is rare privilege. You feel like entering into different era when you step in the premises of Lo Manthang Kingdom.  The main area of interest in Lo Manthang is Amchi Museum, Amchi School and several Monasteries built back in 15th century.

The trip begins in Kathmandu with sightseeing of UNSCEO heritage sites. We then drive to Pokhara and catch a flight to Jomosm, the most convenient way to get Upper Mustang. The flight is indeed the beginning of adventurous journey as it flies though the deepest gorge of the world, Kali Gandaki that meanders between Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri massif. The trail follows some section of Kali Gandaki River and makes a way to Kagbeni, the starting point of restriction. It is wise to pay homage to Muktinath, the scared temple of Buddhist and Hindu. The admirable tree-less landscape, rugged terrain and stunning view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges dominates the route throughout the trail.

The accommodation in teahouse is possible along the whole trek. Usually, the accommodation is basic often run by family and offers basic meals in both communal and individual eating. Mustang trek is great alternative during monsson (June-August) as the region lies in rain shadow area. The main consideration is during winter when most of upper region residents leave the area to hide from cold and snowfall. Basically, the best season to travel Upper Mustang is March to early September.

Day 01: Arrival day at Kathmandu and transfer to hotel

Day 02: Flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara or drive to Pokhara

Day 03: Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,743) and trek to Kagbeni (2,810m). Excursion of Kagbeni and Muktihath (3,720m)

Day 04: Trek to Chele (3,050m) - 6 hours

Day 05: Trek to Syangmochen (3,800m) - 7/8 hours

Day 06: Trek to Tsarang (3,560m) - 7 hours

Day 07: Trek to Lo Manthang (3,800m) - 4/5 hours

Day 08: Acclimatization and exploration day at Lo Mantang

Day 09: Day hike to Nyiphu and Garphu monasteries

Day 10: Trek to Dhakmar (3,820m) via Ghar gumba - hours

Day 11: Trek to Ghiling (3,570m) - 6 hours

Day 12: Trek to Samar (3,550m) - 6 hours

Day13: Trek to Kagbeni (2,810m) - 6/7 hours

Day 14: Trek to Jomsom (2,750m) - 3 hours

Day 15: Flight back to Pokhara from Jomsom and catch a flight from Pokhara to Kathmadu

Day 16: Final Departure

Cost Includes

• Airport to Hotel pickup and drop transportation by private van
• Accommodation and meals throughout trek
• Kathmandu City tour
• Transportation fare- All national flights and ground transportation as per itinerary
• All Trekking permits and required entrance fee
• An experienced guide, porters and their accommodation and meals
• Trekking equipments
• Safe drinking water –boiled/iodinate
• First medical kit
• All government and local tax
• All office charge

Cost Excludes

• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
• Travel insurance charge
• International flight fare
• Nepal entry fare- 25$ for 15 days, 40$ for 30 days and 90$ for 100 days
• Personal nature expenses- alcoholic beverages, mineral water, special menu, shopping, internets, laundry
• Hot showers during the trek
• Personal trekking equipments
• Tips for guides, porters and drivers (Tips are expected but not mandatory)