Upper Mustang, also known as Lo Mustang, resides in Northern Nepal at the end of the Kali Gandaki River. Upper Mustang is a remote area that has its part in the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trek involves a high altitude as the upper Mustang gains an elevation of around 3,840 meters. The Upper Mustang Trek is a 14-day-long trek to explore the hidden world of the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Nepal, which has been protected from the world because of its difficult topography.
This region offers the virgin beauty of landscapes and a tranquil Himalayan range, along with captive and arid plateaus, ravishing cliffs, and plunging canyons. Besides its natural richness, one cannot miss the cultural significance of this region, which is intertwined with the heritage of the Tibetan ranges. The traditional Buddhist lifestyle, along with the ancient monasteries, beautiful attire and costumes, a delicacy of Tibetan and Himalayan cuisines with religious practices, fluttering prayer flags, and whitewashed houses, are some of the central attractions of this place.
Mustang is the perfect combination of cultural and natural beauty, which makes it a perfect spot for trekking. Away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city life, Mustang is a spot for absolute tranquility and peace. As you pass through the white snow-capped Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, you will be able to immerse yourself in the soothing sound of Kali Gandaki and the chippering of birds.
The Upper Mustang region is a paradise for photographers and explorers who are on a mission to explore this enchanting realm. It is not only a physical trip; it is more of a journey of self-discovery and connecting oneself with one's soul. The trek demands resilience, a challenging attitude, and a spirit for adventure. So are you ready to embark on a journey to discover the hidden secrets of Mini Tibet through dramatic landscapes and breathtaking views nestled in the heart of the Himalayas?
Day 01
On the first day, you will get to Kathmandu via bus or plane. The Kathmandu Domestic and International Airport is where you will be welcomed. Thereafter, get to the residence or hotel where you will be staying. Enjoy the day to explore Kathmandu and immerse yourself in its rich culture.
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Day 02
You can either take a 25 minutes flight from Kathmandu or get on a bus to get to Pokhara from Kathmandu. It takes about 6 to 8 hours to reach Pokhara by bus. Pokhara is a lakeside city that resides in the lap of the Himalayas. You can enjoy the scenic beauty of Pokhara Valley. You shall be residing at Pokhara on the day.
Day 03
After having an early morning breakfast at Pokhara, get a 15 minutes fligth to Jomsom from Pokhara. Jomsom airport is at an altitude of 2743 meters. As you cross the suspension bridge and walk along Kali Gandaki, you will be able to see the mountains such as Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Tukuche. You will have a 3-hour trek to Kagbeni and rest there for the day.
Day 04
A 5 to 6-hour Trek right up to the river valley will lead you to Tangbe village for your lunch. Thereafter, continue your trek from Tangbe. After 2 hours of trek, you will reach Chuksang village. You shall see the incredible view of Nilgiri Peak along with the apple orchards and white-washed houses. Moving ahead from Chusang along the Kali Gandaki River will lead you to Chele. You will be spending your night in the village of Chele.
Day 05
As you collect yourself and move toward Eklo Bhatti, the residences and settlements become more scattered and you will see the river passing by. Along with a steep trail and canyon. You will be able to see the rising Tilicho peak and the Damodar Dabda. As you pass this landscape, you will descend to the trail to Samar. With the downhill, you will get to Syangbochen as you pass through the Ramchung cafe and rest there.
Day 06
As you move forward and continue trekking uphill, you will reach the Yamda La Pass which resides at an altitude of 3850 meters. Thereafter, you will move towards the fields of Gheling. As you ascend to the tough valley of Nyi La Pass at 4010 meters, you will see one of the biggest paths of the Lo Region. You will finish your trek for the day at Giyani.
Day 07
On the seventh day, you will be heading towards the driest area of the Mustang. The Tsaarang Pass is 3870 meters from where you will see some of the spectacular views of the mountains. You will be trekking for 5 to 6 hours on this day. There is a medieval fort and a red Gompa in the eastern part of the village. At Dzong, you will find teahouses.
Day 08
After having a fulfilling breakfast, move towards the main attraction of the Mustang region. The walk is mostly flat hill and is around 5 to 6 hours. You will walk along the Lo Pass at 3810 meters and there you will be able to have a view of the Lo-Manthang region. You will further see some of the unique Buddhist Monasteries along with the stunning Himalayan range which includes the Annapurna, Tilicho, Nilgiri, and Bhrikuti Peak.
Day 09
On this day, you will not trek but immerse yourself in the beauty of Lo-Manthang. Here, you will move to nearby Tingkhar and Namgyal Gompa. The Gompa is the spot for Buddhist culture and religious significance. Likewise, Tingkhar is a settlement of more than 40 homes. Moreover, you can also visit the holy Buddhist status at Champa Lhakang and see the exquisite paintings and mandalas on the wall.
Day 10
You will set off from the Lo-Manthang area and trek to Drakmar via Gyarkar. On your way, you will see Ghar Gompa which is popular for its magnificent rock paintings. People believe that their wishes come true as they visit Ghar Gompa. You will be passing through Gyarkar Village via Dhi pass which resides at 4100 meters. You will be concluding your trek there.
Day 11
Trek from Drakmar will lead you to enter the village in Ghiling where you shall explore the views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. Ghiling resides at an altitude of 3820 meters. you will take 5 to 6 hours.
Day 12
After you collect yourself in Ghiling and continue your trek, you will reach Chuksang. This is a hike among the rugged mountains and hills where you will be between Tetang. The trek duration is for 6 hours and you will trek to Jomsom the following day.
Day 13
Completing the Upper Mustang Trek you will reach back to Jomsom from Chhusksang the following day. Here, the Kagbeni will be waiting for you. Also, alternatively, you can visit Muktinath if you manage to stretch your routine. Completion of this Upper Mustang Trek will link you to the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Day 14
You can take an early morning flight to Pokhara from Jomsom and here you can enjoy the beautiful lakeside view. Additionally, don’t forget to book a window seat to enjoy the majestic views of the Mountains and hills for the final time. As you reach Pokhara, enjoy the outdoors that day.
Day 15
You can either drive or have a flight to Kathmandu from Pokhara. Arrive in Kathmandu and shift yourself to a comfortable hotel. You can further explore some amazing places in Kathmandu including the UNESCO-listed sites along with Pashupati temple.
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Waterproof jackets and pants
Sweaters and down jackets
Lightweight trousers
Hiking shirts- long-sleeved
Hooded raincoat and Fleece jacket
Innerwears
Lightweight and heavyweight winter gloves
Sun hat or scarf; Money belt; Cotton headscarf, bandana
Winter hat or insulating hat
Extra items
First aid kit
Passport-sized photos and passport photocopies
Binoculars
Personal medications
1 swiss type knife
Sleeping bags and sheets,
Rucksack, backpack, and a small day pack
Water bottle
Water purification tablet solution
Headlights and extra batteries
Face and body wipes
Sunscreen and sunglasses with UV protection
Money
Watch
Cell phone and camera
Medium-drying towels
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Washing kits, talcum powder, and toilet paper
Degradable soap and shampoo
Deodorant floss, nail clippers, and mirror
Trekking Boots
A pair of sports shoes
Heavy wool and light socks
Upper Mustang Trek begins from Kagbeni Village in Nepal. This is in the Mustang district of Nepal.
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit), Restricted Area Permit, TIMS card.
Sightseeing, Trekking, and Trekking
Cost depends upon various factors such as type of accommodation and length of the trek. On average you can pay around USD 1500 to 2500 USD for a 10 to 14 days trek per person.
Upper Mustang Trek is from 12 to 18 days. However, you can stretch it as per your routine.
you can get to the Upper Mustang region either by trekking or by driving. Moreover, some of the Heli services are also available to get to the Upper Mustang Area.
Jomsom, the Headquarter of Mustang and the Gateway of the Upper Mustang Trek
Hindu and Buddhist spot, Muktinath temple at the elevation of 3800 meters
Kagbeni is a medieval village in the valley of the Kali Gandaki River
The deepest canyon in the world, Kaligandaki River Gorge
Lo-Manthang, the city of walls along with numerous Buddhist monasteries and caves
Luri Gumba and the village of Ghara and Yara
Three days Tiji festival, a prayer for world peace celebrated annually during May
Damodar Kunda is a holy lake at an altitude of 4890 meters.
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