Upper Mustang Trek Complete Guide

Upper Mustang Trek Complete Guide  The most asked question is who wants to visit Mustang. But don't worry !! Just stay tuned !

Introduction

Upper Mustang referred to as the Kingdom of Lo, is a populated area in Nepal's north. Its unusual and arid scenery, which is evocative of the Tibetan Plateau. It is caused by its location in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

Upper Mustang is located at an altitude between 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) and 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) . It has an area of around 2,000 square kilometers (800 square miles). The area defines large valleys, deep gorges, eroded cliffs, and unique rock formations . The stunning landscapes of the Kali Gandaki River are craved as it passes across the area.

Upper Mustang is home to a great number of historic monasteries and structures. It highlights the region's religious and cultural values. Many historic Buddhist murals and manuscripts are seen in the Chhoser Cave. It is close to the settlement of Chuksang. The lower Mustang region is home to the Muktinath Temple. A revered Hindu and Buddhist destination that attracts various pilgrimages from around the world. The prominent religious locations are Ghar Gompa and  Lo Gekar Monastery.

In general, Upper Mustang is an attractive location. It provides a wide range of scenic beauty, cultural diversity, and a sense of adventure. The preservation of Tibetan traditions and its peaceful location make it a unique destination.  After getting to the upper Mustang you can experience like in Heaven .  
 

How To Reach Upper Mustang? Upper Mustang Trek Complete Guide

 This Upper Mustang Trek Complete Guide will provide you with valuable insights on how to reach Upper Mustang, ensuring a smooth and fulfilling journey.

By Air: Jomsom Airport

The quickest and most convenient way to reach Upper Mustang is by air. Jomsom Airport, located in the Mustang district, serves as the gateway to the region. Several domestic airlines operate regular flights from Kathmandu to Jomsom, with a duration of around 20 minutes. Once you arrive at Jomsom, you can begin your trek to Upper Mustang, which takes approximately 7-8 days depending on your pace. 
 

By Road: Kathmandu to Upper Mustang

If you prefer a scenic road journey, you can opt for the overland route from Kathmandu to Upper Mustang. The road trip takes you through picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and winding mountain roads. However, it is important to note that the road conditions can be challenging and unpredictable, particularly during the monsoon season. Here's a breakdown of the route: 
 

Kathmandu to Pokhara: 

Start your journey from Kathmandu, and travel by road or take a short flight to Pokhara. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Prithvi Highway, which connects the two cities. 
 

Pokhara to Jomsom: 

From Pokhara, you have the option to take a scenic flight to Jomsom or embark on a thrilling jeep ride. The flight duration is approximately 20 minutes, while the road journey takes around 10-12 hours, depending on road conditions. 
 

Jomsom to Upper Mustang:

 Once you reach Jomsom, the trekking adventure begins. The trek from Jomsom to Upper Mustang takes about 7-8 days, passing through picturesque villages like Kagbeni and Lo Manthang. 
 

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Why choose the Upper Mustang Trek?

Upper Mustang Trek Complete Guide will equip you with essential information on permits, best trekking seasons, accommodation options, and recommended itineraries. With this guide in hand, you'll be ready to embark on a remarkable journey, discovering the hidden treasures of the Forbidden Kingdom of Mustang. 

Wait !! Before getting to the upper Mustang. You should know that the Upper Mustang offers a special and unforgettable adventure.  The following are some persuasive arguments for selecting the Upper Mustang Trek: 

1. Upper Mustang is a limited area: 

In Nepal, Upper Mustang is making a rare and exclusive vacation. Cultural immersion is also possible there. This trek offers the chance to discover a preserved Tibetan culture. It helps to see centuries-old customs, traditional-style monasteries , villages, and festivals. The area has managed to preserve its distinctive cultural legacy because of isolation. 
 

2. Breathtaking Landscapes:

The Upper Mustang Trek Complete Guide equips you with essential information about the best vantage points and viewpoints along the trek. Mustang is a nest in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. It results in a stunning arid landscape reminiscent of the Tibetan Plateau. Trekking through barren valleys, deep canyons, and eroded cliffs is the way to the point. surreal and dramatic terrain is unlike any other trekking route in Nepal. 
 

3. Ancient Monasteries and Historic Sites:

The region is home to many ancient Buddhist monasteries. Historic sites showcase their religious and cultural significance. You can explore monasteries like the Thubchen Gompa, Jampa Lhakhang, and Chodey Gompa. The monasteries are adorned with beautiful murals, statues, and religious artifacts. The centuries-old caves and cave dwellings, like Chhoser Cave, are also fascinating destinations. 
 

4. Interactions with people:

Trekkers are embraced with open arms by the kind and welcoming people, known as Lo Tibetans. Learning about the natives' way of life, traditions, and customs are shown . Participating in local ceremonies helps to gain a greater area's rich cultural legacy. You can interact with locals, and observe daily activities as well. 
 

5. Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience:

Getting to the upper Mustang provides a sense of isolation and remoteness when compared to other well-traveled trekking routes in Nepal. A quiet and genuine experience ensures the region's annual cap on the number of hikers permitted. You'll get the chance to fully appreciate the scenery's unadulterated beauty. It establishes a peaceful connection with the natural world. 
 

6. Interactions with people:

The Lo Tibetans, a friendly and welcoming community, greet trekkers with open arms. Only by mingling with the natives can one learn about their way of life, traditions, and customs. You can understand better, talk to residents, watch daily life, and even get involved in local traditions to understand the cultural heritage of rich regions. 
 

7. Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience:

In contrast to other popular trekking routes in Nepal, the Upper Mustang Trek offers a sense of seclusion and solitude. The annual limit on hikers allowed in the area ensures a tranquil and authentic experience. You'll get the opportunity to completely take in the scenery's unadulterated beauty and forge a tranquil connection with nature.

An exceptional tour that combines a sense of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and cultural immersion is the Upper Mustang Trek. It enables you to travel back in time and discover a secret treasure of Nepal that only a select few have had the chance to discover. 
 

Preparing for the Trek

To be safe and pleasant, Upper Mustang Trek Complete Guide is essential. When getting to the upper Mustang, keep the following in mind: 
 

Physical fitness: 

A moderate degree of physical fitness is needed for the Upper Mustang Trek. It entails long walking days, challenging terrain, and steep ascents and descents. Exercise regularly and increase your stamina before the expedition by going on a bike ride, hiking, or walking. Your body can be better prepared for the demands of the trek with the support of cardiovascular and strength training.

Upper Mustang is a restricted area; hence, hikers are required to secure specific permits. Both the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) are necessary. Consult a trekking organization or the Nepal Tourism Board for up-to-date permit information and procedures. It's advisable to have these permits arranged well in advance of your trek. 
 

Trekking Gear and Equipment:

Invest in good-quality trekking gear and equipment to ensure comfort and safety during the trek. Some essential items include a sturdy pair of trekking boots, comfortable hiking socks, waterproof and breathable clothing layers, a warm sleeping bag, a backpack, trekking poles, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Consult a trekking gear checklist and consider the weather and season during your trek.

Upper Mustang experiences a broad range of temperatures, so dressing in layers is crucial. Bring lightweight, wicking base layers, insulating mid layers, and an outer layer that is waterproof and windproof. To stay comfortable during the walk, use breathable materials and easy to dry. For chilly mornings and evenings, don't forget to carry a warm hat, pair of gloves, and thermal socks.

Upper Mustang is located at a high altitude, thus acclimation is essential. Make sure to include enough rest days and gentle ascents in your schedule so that your body has time to acclimate to the higher altitude. Throughout the journey, drink plenty of water, abstain from alcohol and caffeine, and pay attention to your body for any signs of altitude sickness. Before the walk, speak with a healthcare provider, especially if you have any current medical issues.

This Upper Mustang Trek Complete Guide will provide you with essential information on the gear you'll need to pack for your trek through the stunning landscapes of Upper Mustang. 
 

Training and familiarization:

It is advisable to take part in a few training walks or shorter treks before starting the Upper Mustang Trek. This gets you used to carrying a backpack while walking for extended distances and gets you physically and emotionally ready for the challenges that lie ahead. To improve your entire experience, you should also become familiar with the route, sights, and cultural features of the area.

Having comprehensive travel insurance that covers hiking activities, medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation is strongly advised. Make sure your insurance policy offers sufficient coverage for the duration of your trip and that it covers high-altitude trekking. 
 

Cultural Experience

A special chance to become fully immersed in the area's rich cultural heritage is provided by the Upper Mustang Trek. You might anticipate the following cultural encounters while on the trek:

Upper Mustang is referred to as the "Kingdom of Lo" and is greatly influenced by Tibetan culture. Trekking across the area will take you past monasteries, villages decorated in Tibetan style, and long-preserved customs. Get to know the Lo Tibetans, who live there, and discover their traditions, language, and way of life.

Upper Mustang is covered in a large number of monasteries and gompas, which are Buddhist religious buildings. Investigate these venerable and holy locations, such as the Chodey Gompa, Jampa Lhakhang, and Thubchen Gompa. Be amazed by the elaborate construction and the colorful wall. 
 

Festivals and Celebrations: 

You'll enjoy a distinctive cultural experience if your journey coincides with local festivals or celebrations. Traditional music, dances, and rituals are performed at festivals including Tiji, Yartung, and the Kagbeni Horse Festival, which are all enthusiastically observed. These celebrations provide a window into the spiritual practices and cultural customs of the neighborhood. 
 

Traditional Tibetan Architecture: 

The Upper Mustang Trek Complete Guide takes you on a captivating journey through the hidden gem of Upper Mustang, where you will not only witness breathtaking landscapes but also encounter the rich cultural heritage of the region. One aspect that stands out during this trek is the traditional Tibetan architecture that adorns the villages and monasteries along the trail.

The Upper Mustang region has preserved its architectural heritage for centuries, providing a glimpse into the traditional way of life in this remote area. The structures, including monasteries, fortresses (dzongs), and residential houses, feature distinctive elements such as ornate doorways, prayer wheels, prayer flags, and decorative motifs inspired by Buddhist and Tibetan traditions 
 

Local Cuisine:

While on your walk, sample the flavors of traditional Mustang cuisine. Sample foods like momos (dumplings), buckwheat pancakes, momos (lentil soup with rice), and regional drinks. Take advantage of the chance to sample yak-based goods including yak cheese and butter tea. Talk to the locals to find out about their culinary customs and how they acquire their ingredients from the untamed environment.

Respect local conventions and cultural norms when interacting with Upper Mustang residents, according to cultural etiquette. Wear modest clothing, take your shoes off when visiting monasteries, and always get permission before taking pictures of people or sacred places. To better comprehend the locals' way of life, show respect for their culture and strike up a dialogue.

The Upper Mustang Trek will be enhanced by embracing these cultural encounters, and doing so will increase your awareness of the area's rich history. To establish genuine ties with the neighborhood, keep in mind to approach these interactions with curiosity, respect, and an open mind. 
 

Scenic Highlights

Scenic Highlights are also included in Upper Mustang Trek Complete Guide. So what are the highlights on the upper Mustang that you gonna see?

Tiji Festival:

This festival commemorates the victory of Lord Buddha's incarnation Dorjee Sonnu over a demon called Man Tam Ru a vicious creature feeding on human beings and causing storms and droughts. The Tiji festival usually takes place around May and lasts for 3 days. 
 

Walled City-Lo Manthang.

The old Kingdom of Lo's capital, Lo Manthang, was built in the 15th century on a plateau 3800 meters above sea level. The community is situated along an antiquated trade route that follows the Kali Gandaki River as it flows through the Himalayas. A 6-meter-high earthen wall with square towers, or dzong, on its corners encloses the village. There is a small community of earthen buildings inside the walls.

The palace and monasteries of Jampa Lakhang and Thupchen Lakhang from the 15th century, as well as the monastery of Choede Lakhang from the 18th century, are the principal monuments discovered inside the walls. Within the hamlet and just around it, there are multiple rows of shortens and mane walls. 
 

Hidden Kingdom in the trans-Himalayan Land:

The capital of Upper Mustang and a remote Tibetan town, Lo Manthang (3,800 m), was established in 1380. From Jomsom, it is 90 kilometers away. When Nepal had a monarchy, the city was one of the kingdoms. Because the settlement is enclosed by the wall, Lo Manthang is also referred to as an Upper Mustang walled city. An estimated 900 Lhobas people live in the area. About 20 kilometers beyond Korala are the Tibetan border. Locals continue to trade commodities from Tibet using this method. This immigration is not yet officially open.

Lo-man thang has a similar cultural heritage to Tibet. The Lhobas ethnic group, whose cultures are akin to Tibetan, controls the majority of the territory. Nearby, about twelve caverns were found. 
 

Tibetan Buddhism:

Previously, Mustang was governed by the Yarlung dynasty of central Tibet, and afterward, Mustang was ruled by the Ngari of Western Tibet. After 1380 AD, when Ame Pal, a wary and devoted Buddhist from Western Tibet, established Mustang as an independent Kingdom, Upper Mustang's famous history officially began. Previously, Mustang was governed by the Yarlung dynasty of central Tibet, and afterward, Mustang was ruled by the Ngari of Western Tibet. After 1380 AD, when Ame Pal, a wary and devoted Buddhist from Western Tibet, established Mustang as an independent Kingdom, Upper Mustang's famous history officially began. 
 

Muktinath Temple: A Sacred Place for both Hindus and Buddhists.

Both Hindus and Buddhists refer to this shrine as Muktikshetra, which means "place of salvation," and Chumig Gyatsa, which means "place of 108 waterspouts." A Jwala Mai shrine with three eternal fires inside a Gompa located nearby Muktinath. A well-known holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists worldwide is the Muktinath Temple.

This is where Lord Vishnu reportedly found redemption from the Brinda curse, according to Hinduism. He is therefore revered as the Lord of Salvation in Muktinath. Devotees think that this shrine appeared by itself. 108 cow faces encircle the shrine, through which holy water is poured. Before entering the temple to worship Muktinath, devotees take a bath in the 108 waterspouts and holy pond. 
 

Glorious Natural Beauty:

The desert-like plateau, sharp hills, moraine valleys, and desolate landscape of Upper Mustang are justifications for its magnificent natural beauty. This location is brought to life by the stunning views of the holy Himalayas, including Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri, as well as other snow-capped peaks. 
 

Manmade Sky Caves:

A true sculptor's masterpiece is Shija Jhong Cave. Shija Jhong Cave is a five-story upper Mustang cave having more than 40 rooms that are connected to one another by intricate carvings. On the front side of the Jhong cave, there is a tiny opening. Shija Jhong Cave requires a steep set of stairs to be climbed by visitors. 
 

What is the best season?

In Upper Mustang Trek Complete Guide it is very imp to know about the best season. 
An isolated and arid region of the trans-Himalayan highlands is Upper Mustang.  This area, which borders Tibet, has a distinctly Tibetan feel to it, both in terms of the people and culture, as well as the surroundings.  This area is known for its lofty snow-capped mountains, as well as caves, rock paintings, monasteries, and high rocky cliffs of distinctive shape and color.

The absence of the monsoon in this dry area is due to its location in the rain shadow, making it the ideal time of year to travel there.  Trekking is not recommended during the hard winters when most locals migrate to Pokhara or Kathmandu. 
 

Spring Time-April and May

The weather is warm and the rivers brim with snowmelt in the lower sections, making this an excellent time to visit Upper Mustang, especially if trekking in from Lower Mustang.

If you want to climb in Upper Mustang or traverse high passes, this is definitely the finest time of year to do it.  The Lo-Manthang Tiji Festival takes place in the middle of May.  Three days long, this event is unquestionably a cause to visit in May. This time of year, temperatures typically range from 16 to 22 degrees Celsius. 
 

Monsoon Time-June To September

Upper Mustang does not experience the monsoon. It makes a fantastic hiking destination for people who leave during the summer.  The trails in Lower Mustang are rainy and perhaps dangerously slick, and flights from Pokhara to Jomson may be delayed because of the weather.

But once you get to Upper Mustang, the world changes completely.   The horse festival, or Yartung Mela as it is known locally, is likewise set on the day of the full moon in August.  This three or four-day celebration begins in Lo-Manthang and moves downward while featuring horse races, archery, dancing, and other fun activities! Lows are around 16 degrees and highs are in the mid-20s Celsius range. 
 

Autumn-October and November

The autumn offers the best mountain views and the bluest skies throughout all of Nepal.  However, afternoon winds can be strong, so be ready! The usual temperature range is between 12 and 20 degrees Celsius.

In reality, Upper Mustang's hiking season is ending as lodges close and locals depart for Pokhara and Kathmandu to survive the bitter winters.  After November, heavy-duty winter gear is needed because the trails are covered in snow. 
 

What type of accommodation can I expect while Trekking?

The Upper Mustang Trek Complete Guide provides valuable insights into the various aspects of trekking in the stunning Upper Mustang region of Nepal. One common concern for trekkers is the type of accommodation they can expect during their journey.

You can find a  respectable hotel in Pokhara and stay in teahouses while you are out on the trail. Expecting a luxurious show 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. You may learn more about staying at tea houses.  
 

Treehouse in Upper Mustang!! What are they?

Small hotels referred to as Bhatti are tea houses. Given their size, you might anticipate a certain level of comfort. You certainly can, but keep in mind that comfort is a relative term. They are cozy to the extent that you have a bed to sleep in and a kitchen to prepare meals in. Yes, local families who have opened their homes to passing hikers manage the tea houses. 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. 
 

Where do I book my Upper Trek Mustang Package?

If you're wondering where to book your Upper Mustang trek package, you've come to the right place. The "Upper Mustang Trek Complete Guide" is designed to provide you with all the necessary information and resources to plan and book your unforgettable adventure. 

You can find anything anywhere on the internet, which is a terrific thing. The same is true of hikers and trekkers. Finding a trekking company might be a better option. That is why “The Nepal Holidays” can be the best option for you. 
 

Do I need a permit for the Upper Mustang Trek?

You should have two types of permits getting to the upper Mustang. The permits are managed by the trekkers.

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

2. Restricted Area Permit 
 

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit:

As you will be entering the Annapurna Conservation Area, you will need a permit which costs USD 20 per person for a single entry into the area but is valid for as long as the trek takes. This permit is also required for the Annapurna region and the ABC trek. 
 

2. Restricted Area Permit

There is no restriction on the length of time a person can stay in the ACAP area. In addition, if someone is going into Upper Mustang(from Kagbeni onwards) they require a RAP (Restricted Area Permit).

This costs USD 500 per person for 10 days. If longer is required, an additional USD 50 per day is charged. There is no TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System card) required for the Upper Mustang Trek as the Restricted Area Permit(RAP) is sufficient as it provides details of the trekker and his/her destination in case of an emergency or problem.

In Conclusion 

In conclusion, the Upper Mustang Trek is a captivating and unforgettable adventure that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and remote mystique. This Upper Mustang Trek Complete Guide has provided valuable insights and information to help you plan and embark on this remarkable journey.