Upper Mustang Trek

Overview

Want to experience and enjoy a trekking adventure that takes you to an incredibly rugged landscape in the mountains? Upper Mustang Trek from Kathmandu offers you such an adventure trekking experience in Nepal. It is one of the restricted area trekking adventures in the mountains that offer you an experience of a lifetime.

The Upper Mustang trek is an activity conducted in the Mustang situated in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Lo Manthang -the heart of the upper Mustang offers the untamed scenery of magnificent views of the Himalayas including the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri, Annapurna North, Damodar Himal, and many other white snow-capped peaks. It provides mesmerizing views of the Mustang landscape with the snow capped mountains shining from sun rays. It is one of the most remote and least populated areas in the Himalayan range. While hiking the upper Mustang, it covers two-thirds of the Mustang district of Gandaki province. The Mustang region is divided into Upper Mustang and Lower Mustang with Lo Manthang as its capital.

You will walk through the rugged mountains of the Upper Mustang region of the Himalayas. The region comes under the restricted regions in the mountains. You will need a special permit for the trek. The permit is different from the one for regular trekking regions like Annapurna Sanctuary Trek.

If you think you do not have enough time for the 14-day trek, you can customize the itinerary for short upper Mustang trek 7 days. The upper Mustang trek itinerary 7 days includes the Lo Manthang and the major regions of Mustang Valley Nepal. 

The Upper Mustang permit fee is $500 for the first ten days, and an additional $50 per day for each additional day. The permit fee is fixed by the Nepal government. Hence it is the same for all foreign nationals. 

What do you see while Trekking the Upper Mustang? 

When you are on this adventure, you will experience something that you cannot experience anywhere else. This Upper Mustang trek guide offers you a wonderful mixture of walking adventures, magnificent mountains, and beautiful culture. In addition to the walking adventure, you will get to see and experience a unique cultural lifestyle in the region. Upper Mustang trek distance is usually 462 km from Kathmandu Valley and passes through rugged and rough trails. 

Upper Mustang Trek Nepal is a place with a colorful mountainous landscape and incredibly beautiful culture. While you are on a trek in the region, you will get to explore both. The final destination of the trek, Lo Manthang, is a beautiful village in the region that offers an incredible cultural immersion. On the other hand, the lower Mustang trek excludes the Lo Manthang and restricted areas.  

The walk from Jomsom to Lo Manthang and return is an experience to cherish for life. However, as a restricted region trekking, the adventure will require a special permit at the cost of USD 500 for ten days. But the experience that you will get on the trek is something that is incomparable to the money. It is simply invaluable. Walking through the Kali Gandaki River valley up towards the rugged mountain surroundings of Upper Mustang is an adventure to go for.

This trek starts from Jomsom where another beautiful trekking adventure, Annapurna Circuit Trek, in the Annapurna comes to end. You can opt for the Upper Mustang to Upper Dolpo trek as a sideway trip if you wish to travel more.

Reasons this trip becomes an Experience

Nepal Climbing Adventure always strives to offer an adventure traveling experience that you can cherish. While the Upper Mustang Trek tour is beautiful in its essence, your experience of trekking there becomes even more beautiful with us.

By the time we take you to the base camp and bring you back, we take one step ahead to offer you a beautiful experience. We keep your safety and happiness is our top priority and you will experience the same during the trip.

Trekking with us to Upper Mustang is traveling in safe hands.

Traversing through Lo Manthang:

• Vegetation and Landscape: 

The whole journey is famous for its majestic serenity and the heavenly environment with rich culture and diversity on Upper Mustang. One can encounter sub-alpine scanty vegetation, alpine pastures, and some planted orchards due to the region's high altitude and arid climate. Common plants like juniper trees, bushes, and hardy grasses clinging to the rocky terrain are found in the region. 

• Rich Cultural Heritage: 

Upon reaching Lo Manthang, travelers are greeted by ancient monasteries, stupas, and intricately carved walls, showcasing the deep religious and cultural significance of the area. The locals follow Tibetan Buddhism, and their way of life is intertwined with centuries-old traditions passed down through generations.

• Mustangi Cuisine and Local Intricacy:

Indulging in traditional Mustangi cuisine offers a taste of the region's rugged terrain and Tibetan influences. Hearty dishes like thukpa (noodle soup), momo (dumplings), and various meat and vegetable stews are made from locally sourced ingredients such as barley, buckwheat, and potatoes. Locally brewed chang (barley beer) and Marpha add to the culinary experience.

• Roads and Accommodation: 

While the main roads leading to Lo Manthang are generally well-maintained, travelers should be prepared for rugged sections, especially in remote areas. Accommodations in the region are basic, with options ranging from tea-houses to guest houses offering simple facilities like beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Some guest houses may even provide home-cooked meals, making prior booking advisable.

• Safety and Cultural Etiquette: 

Despite its remoteness, Lo Manthang is considered safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and a welcoming local community. However, it's essential to exercise caution, particularly when trekking or exploring remote areas. Respecting local customs and traditions while visiting monasteries and cultural sites is also highly recommended for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Let us take you through the thrilling journey of 8 days exploration of Mustang. A journey away from the hustle and bustle of the everyday crowd among nature where peace is the priority. The journey is conducted with a private AC bus with comfortable seats. The average cost per person for this incredible journey is Rs.15000. The trip begins with Kathmandu valley followed by Manakamana, Pokhara, Ghandruk, Mustang, Lo Manthang, Komsom, Kagbeni and concludes at Kathmandu via Pokhara. The itinerary can be customized as per the preferences of the traveller with some additional charges. 

Join us on this journey to experience the thrill and ambiance of tranquility in the arms of Mother Nature. Let us exceed your expectations of adventure and take you on the once-in-a-lifetime journey. With our travel company, we promise to provide you with the best experience so far with our meticulously crafted trip by experts. B 

Upper Mustang Trek Highlights

• Cultural exploration throughout the journey.
• Experience the charm of Jomsom and Kagbeni villages.
• Exploration of Pokhara's natural and cultural attractions.
• The scenic cable car ride to Manakamana Temple offers breathtaking views.
• Exploration of Pokhara's tranquil lakes and stunning mountain views.
• Visit the picturesque village of Ghandruk and gain insight into the lifestyles of locals.
• Discovery of the mystical region of Mustang and its ancient monasteries.
• Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple and hike the Upper Mustang.

Places to Visit During the Exploration of Mustang

• Manakamana: Scenic hilltop temple offering panoramic views and a sacred pilgrimage site.
• Pokhara: Picturesque lakeside city nestled in the Himalayas, known for its sensational mountain views and adventure activities.
• Ghandruk: Charming Gurung village surrounded by terraced fields and snow-capped mountains.
• Mustang: Magical region renowned for ancient monasteries, barren landscapes, and Tibetan culture.
• Jomsom: Peaceful town at the base of the Nilgiri mountains, serving as a gateway to the Mustang region.
• Kagbeni: Quaint village located at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Mustang rivers, with ancient architecture and cultural heritage.

Why Trek to the Upper Mustang?

Here are a few pieces of information for the trekking journey to Upper Mustang that you need to know before stepping on a trek. These are the reasons why the Upper Mustang Valley trek is an optimal choice and worth undertaking. 

• Stunning Landscapes: Mustang has breathtaking landscapes with towering Himalayan peaks, deep valleys, rugged terrain, and barren landscapes. The scenery offers countless possibilities for outdoor exploration and photography.

• Cultural Richness: Mustang, being a former Himalayan kingdom, has a deep-rooted cultural heritage. Tourists get to discover ancient monasteries, elaborate cave dwellings, and traditional villages, which provide a glimpse into the distinctive Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions.

• Historic Sites: Mustang is home to numerous historic sites, including the walled city of Lo-Manthang, ancient palaces, and centuries-old monasteries. These sites offer glimpses into Mustang's fascinating history and architectural marvels.

• Spiritual Value: The area is filled with holy pilgrimage sites that are highly respected by Hindus and Buddhists alike. Muktinath Temple, situated in Mustang, is an important pilgrimage spot where believers believe that visiting its sacred waters can bring salvation.

• Exceptional Lifestyle: The people of Mustang lead a traditional way of life, closely connected to the land and their cultural heritage. Visitors can interact with locals, participate in cultural festivals, and witness age-old traditions firsthand, offering a glimpse into a lifestyle rarely seen in the modern world.

• Peace and Stability: Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Mustang offers a serene environment perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can find inner peace amidst the majestic beauty of the Himalayas.

• Remote and Untouched: Visiting Mustang provides a distinct and exceptional chance to discover secluded and less-explored places, far from the usual tourist crowds.

Upper Mustang Trek Cost 2024/2025

The Upper Mustang trek cost differs significantly based on various factors like trek duration, the chosen accommodation, and the mode of transportation. Typically, 14-day Upper Mustang trek can cost between $1,500 and $3,000 per individual. The final cost will depend on personal preferences and demands. This price covers permit fees, meals, accommodation, and transportation, with fees for guides and porters.

 The Nepal Upper Mustang Trek cost can be reduced when traveling with a group. The bigger the group size, the lesser the cost of travel. 

Upper Mustang Trek Cost for Nepali

As of 2021, Nepalese citizens are charged a permit fee of NPR 1,000 (approximately $8.50) per person per day, which is much lower compared to foreign nationals. The cost of trekking in the Upper Mustang for Nepali citizens may vary based on their preferences and needs, but it can be considerably lower than that for foreign nationals since they are not required to cover expenses such as costly flights or visas.

Upper Mustang Trail Group vs Solo Trek

The Upper Mustang Trek solo experience is for travelers who want to enjoy the beauty of the region without the crowd. We have both Solo and Group travel options for our Itinerary. While group costs are lower comparatively, you can share your experiences and enjoy in a group. Solo travel is for those who need peace and alone time.

 

 

Difficulty Level of the Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang Trek is considered a moderate-level difficult trek, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness and some prior trekking experience. The trail involves several days of walking at high altitudes, with elevations ranging from 2,800 meters at Jomsom to over 4,000 meters at Lo La pass.

Challenges:

• Altitude: The trek Mustang involves walking at high altitudes, which can pose a risk of altitude sickness.
• Terrain: The trail includes rocky paths, steep ascents and descents, and river crossings.
• Weather: The region has a desert-like climate with strong winds and harsh sun, especially during the day.

Upper Mustang Trek Preparation Tips:

• Engage in regular cardio and strength training exercises before the trek.
• Acclimatize properly by taking rest days and drinking plenty of water.
• Pack appropriate clothing and gear for varying weather conditions.

The Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek Nepal

The best time to trek Upper Mustang is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making for ideal trekking conditions.

Spring (March to May):

• Advantages: Blooming wildflowers, pleasant temperatures, and vibrant landscapes.
• Considerations: Busy trekking trails and higher demand for accommodation.

Autumn (September to November):

• Advantages: Clear skies, excellent visibility, and festive atmosphere with local festivals like Tiji.
• Considerations: Cooler temperatures, especially at night, and crowded trails.

Trekking Permits Required for the Upper Mustang Trek

Trekking in Upper Mustang requires two main permits:

a). Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit is required for trekking in the Annapurna region, including the Upper Mustang. The cost is approximately USD 20.

b). Special Permit for Upper Mustang: This permit is required to enter the restricted area of Upper Mustang. The cost is USD 500 for the first 10 days and USD 50 for each additional day.

These permits can be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Nepal, which can also assist with the required documentation and procedures.

Upper Mustang Trekking Itinerary Outline

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

Day 02: Kathmandu – Pokhara (900m) (6-7 Hrs. Drive by Tourist Bus - Upper Mustang Road Trip)

Day 03: Pokhara - Jomsom - Kagbeni

Day 04: Kagbeni - Chele

Day 05: Chele - Ghiling

Day 06: Ghiling - Tsarang

Day 07: Tsarang - Lo Manthang

Day 08: Lo Manthang Exploration

Day 09: Lo Manthang - Dhakmar

Day 10: Dhakmar - Syangboche

Day 11: Syangboche - Chhusang

Day 12: Chhusang - Jomsom

Day 13: Jomsom – Pokhara (900m)

Day 14: Pokhara – Kathmandu

There are a number of things that you need to keep in mind if you ever plan for your vacation. Because you want to make the most out of your limited time, it is truly a hectic job for you to find a trustworthy and experienced traveling companion. With Nepal Climbing, you have your problem solved already as we are one of the leading Trekking and Mountaineering organizations in Nepal and have been providing first class service in several travelling packages across the country for many years.

We prioritize your satisfaction and safety

At Nepal Climbing Adventure, our ultimate objective is to arrange the programs for you to make the most out of your valuable time. We value your satisfaction, adventure, amusement and safety. Regardless of whether you are searching for stunning perspectives along the trekking trails in Himalayan mountain range or widely acclaimed, heavenly attractions with developed societies, our exposure and experience in travel business will help you ensure your requirements are met.

We have professional staffs and service

We trust that extraordinary staff lead awesome administration. That is the reason we are collaborated with experienced and eager individuals. We possess authorized and government certified guides who are very much furnished with broad learning of Nepali communities and traditions. They additionally have familiar English speaking abilities and hierarchical capacities to encourage all types trekking groups.

Responsible Tourism and social values

We are endeavoring to lessen the effect of tourism by guaranteeing our staff are very much aware of ecological issues. We are doing our best to create less waste as could be expected under the circumstances and make a point to reclaim non-compostable wastes. We outline our itineraries and work in the field guided by the standards of ecotourism and reasonable tourism. Moreover, all our staff have been given ecological preparing and are extremely aware to the eco-system we enter. Additionally, we are adhering to sustainable assets of energy. Our guides will share you the social values, culture and religious harmony for better understanding the groups you visit.

Customizable Service

Our promise is to provide you with the travelling packages customizable according to your demand fulfilling your budget criteria. So, we can facilitate a minimum of 2 individuals with a personalized service at a reasonable cost.

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Account Holder's Name:  Nepal Climbing Adventure Pvt. Ltd. 

Bank Name: Himalayan Bank Ltd.

Account Number: 01907449340018

Account Type: USD

Address: Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal

SWIFT CODE: HIMANPKA

For more detail contact us:

Krishna Subedi (Chris Chhetri): +977 9851076791  (24/7, Call/Viber/Watsapp)

We recommend our guests have a valid insurance policy before undertaking an adventure in Nepal Himalaya. During treks and expeditions, the insurance should cover for expenses such as air ambulance, helicopter rescue, and medical care. As an adventure operator, we (NCA), are not permitted to arrange or sell insurance packages here in Nepal as per the Government of Nepal.

Packing List for the Upper Mustang Trek

The upper Mustang Trek packing list is crucial for a successful and enjoyable trek. Here is a recommended packing list:

Clothing:

• Base Layers: Moisture-wicking shirts and thermal tops.
• Insulating Layers: Fleece jacket and down jacket for warmth.
• Outer Layers: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.
• Trekking Pants and Shorts: Lightweight and comfortable.
• Hats and Gloves: Warm hat, sun hat, and gloves.

Footwear:

• Trekking Boots: Sturdy, comfortable, and broken-in.
• Trekking Socks: Moisture-wicking and warm.

Accessories:

• Backpack: 40-50 liters with a rain cover.
• Sleeping Bag: Rated for at least -10°C.
• Trekking Poles: For stability and support.
• Sunglasses and Sunscreen: To protect against UV rays.

Miscellaneous:

• First Aid Kit: Personal medications, band-aids, blister care.
• Water Bottles and Purification: Hydration system and water purification tablets.
• Headlamp: With extra batteries.
• Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

What is the best time to explore the Upper Mustang?

The best time for the exploration of Mustang is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is great with clear skies, offering excellent visibility of the mountains.

What kind of clothing should I pack for the trip?

Pack lightweight and breathable clothing for daytime activities, along with warm layers for cooler evenings and higher elevations. Additionally, we recommend sturdy hiking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreens.

Are there any altitude considerations for the exploration of Mustang?

Yes, parts of the tour, especially in Upper Mustang, involve traveling to higher altitudes. It's essential to acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness. Consult with your healthcare provider before the trip if you have any concerns about altitude-related issues.

What is the accommodation like during the exploration of Mustang?

Accommodation options vary from comfortable hotels in cities like Pokhara to teahouses and guesthouses in rural areas like Ghandruk and Jomsom. While facilities may be less in remote areas, they offer a unique experience amidst stunning landscapes.

What are the dining options like during the tour?

The upper Mustang trek package typically includes meals at the accommodations and selected restaurants. You'll have the opportunity to sample local Nepali cuisine and international dishes in Pokhara and Kathmandu. Vegetarian and dietary preferences can be accommodated with prior notice.

What kind of transportation is provided during the exploration of Mustang?

During the exploration of Mustang, transportation includes private vehicles for overland travel between destinations, as well as cable car rides and short hikes for specific activities. Comfortable and experienced drivers ensure a safe and enjoyable journey throughout the tour.

Do Nepalese need a permit for the Upper Mustang?

Yes, even Nepalese nationals are required to obtain a permit to trek in upper Mustang. However, the permit fee is significantly lower for Nepalese citizens than for foreign nationals. As of 2021, the permit fee for Nepalese citizens is NPR 1,000 (roughly $8) per person per day.

Why is Upper Mustang famous?

The Upper Mustang area is famous for its unique cultural and natural heritage. The region used to be part of the ancient Kingdom of Lo, which dates back to the 14th century. The area is known for its marked Tibetan culture.

This includes many monasteries, Chortens (Buddhist shrines), and traditional Tibetan-style homes. The landscape is also unique and beautiful. It has deep gorges, high passes, and rugged terrain. The area was opened to tourists in 1992, and since then, it has become a popular trekking destination.

Why is Mustang famous in Nepal?

Mustang is famous in Nepal for its historical and cultural significance. The region was once an independent kingdom, as mentioned above. It has a rich history and heritage that is closely linked to Tibetan culture. The area is known for its unique festivals, such as the Tiji Festival.

The Tiji festival is celebrated for the victory of good over evil. Mustang is also famous for its stunning natural beauty, with snow-capped peaks, deep gorges, and the Kali Gandaki River.