The Upper Mustang Trek offers a daring experience for enthusiast trekkers in the remote trans-Himalayan mountain region; the ancient forbidden kingdom of Nepal.
The Upper Mustang Trek offers a daring experience for enthusiast trekkers in the remote trans-Himalayan mountain region; the ancient forbidden kingdom of Nepal.
Set out on a memorable tour through Upper Mustang, a secluded and unspoiled region in the Himalayas. This journey package offers an extraordinary chance to discover this hidden gem's vibrant culture, breathtaking scenery, and fascinating history. This walk will captivate you with its beautiful villages, temples, and panoramic vistas of the Himalayas.
As you explore the traditional way of life in Mustang, you will be transported back in time as you walk along ancient trade routes and through arid regions. Visit the welcoming locals and learn about their enduring traditions and beliefs. Discover the region's spiritual significance by touring the gorgeous, historically significant monasteries and gompas.
Both experienced trekkers and those who have never been on a journey before can enjoy the Upper Mustang trek's perfect balance of adventure and cultural exploration. The walk is challenging but doable, and it's a great chance to challenge yourself and put your endurance to the test.
You will pass by some of the most beautiful vistas on earth as you navigate the rugged terrain. The variety of the landscape, which ranges from gentle slopes and lush meadows to soaring peaks and desolate deserts, will astound you. The route also passes through verdant forests and along rivers that are crystal clear, which serve as a constant source of inspiration and renewal.
You will pass through some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the world as you navigate the challenging terrain, including views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks, which is also a part of our Annapurna Base Camp Trek itinerary. You may explore Mustang's traditional way of life by strolling through historic trade routes, where you can meet the welcoming inhabitants and learn about their fascinating traditions and beliefs.
The Upper Mustang Trek possesses a trans-Himalayan climate, excellent and semi-arid with precipitation located in the rain shadow of Mt. Annapurna and Dhaulagiri (the 7th highest mountain in the world) ranges.
Upper Mustang is rich in Buddhist culture, and it gratifies the visitors to experience the Tibetan culture and beautiful barren landscapes as part of the Tibetan plateau. Also, 55 cave paintings depicting the life of Lord Buddha – Light of Asia can be observed in the Upper Mustang Trek 2024
Kagbeni is a gateway to enter the Upper Mustang Trek. You are required to hold the special trekking permit along with the companion of a government official during the entrance to the gateway.
You will get an opportunity to choose the commuting means; an exclusive drift ride on a horse or an enjoyable off-road jeep drive to explore after reaching Lo Manthang, the final destination situated at an altitude of 3,840m. Of course, you can go solo as an adventure as the path is pretty common and people you meet on the way will help you wherever you go. Of course, the path needs specific kinds of vehicles to traverse the path until a concrete road is fully built, and seasons will affect the condition of the path.
You will unveil the real lifestyle of Mustang people who rely on animal husbandry as one of the prime livelihood options with an equal focus on a huge production of apples. Not to mention, seeing Chhortens, buckwheat fields, caves, and cliffs during the Upper Mustang Trek would add glory to your trek.
The trek through Upper Mustang is a real feast for the senses! This voyage will enthrall you with its breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture, and intriguing history. Prepare to be mesmerized by the enchantment of this secret nation as you travel through its isolated settlements, eerie monasteries, and historic trade routes. Additionally, the Upper Mustang trek offers a chance to learn about Mustang's cultural traditions and get to know the welcoming residents. Immerse yourself in their way of life, discover their enduring traditions and beliefs, and be moved by their steadfast adherence to their spiritual roots. The region is especially vibrant during the mid-May festival of Tiji.
This trek package is a life-changing journey that will push your physical limitations and give you a profound respect for the Himalayas' fascinating past and breathtaking scenery. Why wait then? Come along with us on the Upper Mustang hike and experience the charm of this secret country for yourself!
The Upper Mustang trek is a true treasure trove of highlights! This trek has something to offer everyone, from breathtaking mountain scenery to rich cultural experiences. Here are just a few of the many highlights you can expect on this unforgettable adventure:
The trek through Upper Mustang is a genuine adventure that offers a singular and unforgettable experience. Don't miss this chance to explore the Himalayas' undiscovered beauty and to make lifelong memories!
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at the airport, a representative from Himalayan Connections will greet you and take you to the hotel.
After having some rest you'll join the team meet–up and pre-trip discussions of the trek where you will meet your trek guide/leader before the Upper Mustang Trek starts. In the evening, Himalayan Connections will organize a welcome dinner with delicious Nepali cuisine and a cultural show.
Camp: Thamel Kathmandu
Altitude: 1400m. / 4592 ft.
Time:
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Main Attractions:
Camp: Pokhara
Altitude: 827m / 2712ft
Time: 25min flight / 6-7 hrs drive
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Main Attractions:
Camp: Kagbeni
Altitude: 2810 m / 9217 ft.
Time: 15 min flight / 2 – 3 hrs. walk
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: tea house
Main Attractions:
Camp: Chhusang
Altitude: 3050 m / 10004 ft
Time: 5 – 6 hrs walk
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: tea house
Main Attractions:
Camp: Syangboche
Altitude: 3475 m / 11398 ft
Time: 6 – 7 hrs walk
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Main Attractions:
Camp: Ghami
Altitude: 3520 m / 11546 ft
Time: 5 – 6 hrs walk
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: tea house
Main Attractions:
Camp: Tsarang
Altitude: 3620 m / 11874 ft
Time: 5 – 6 hrs walk
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: tea house
Main Attractions:
Camp: Lo-Manthang
Altitude: 3810 m / 12497 ft
Time: 3 – 4 hrs walk
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: tea house
Main Attractions:
Camp: Lo-Manthang
Altitude: 3810 m/ 12497 ft
Time:
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: tea house
Main Attractions:
Camp: Muktinath
Altitude: 3800 m/ 12464 ft
Time: 4 – 5 hrs drive
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: tea house
Main Attractions:
Camp: Jomsom
Altitude: 2743 m/ 8997 ft.
Time: 5 – 6 hrs.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: tea house
Main Attractions:
Camp: Pokhara
Altitude: 827 m/ 2713 ft
Time: 15 min. flight
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Main Attractions:
Camp: Kathmandu
Altitude: 1400m/4592ft
Time: 6 -7 hrs bus drive
Meals: Breakfast and special farewell Dinner with a Nepali cultural show.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Main Attractions:
Upper Mustang Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you through the remote and pristine Mustang region, situated in the northwestern part of the country.
It offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, cultural heritage, and adventure, making it a must-visit destination for trekkers and travelers.
The Upper Mustang trek approximately covers 15-16 days which also depends on your preference.
Upper Mustang Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek. The trail is strenuous and involves long hours of walking, but the experience and memories you take away from the trek make it all worth it.
The best time to do the Upper Mustang Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These seasons offer clear skies, warm temperatures, and optimal trekking conditions.
The Upper Mustang Trek takes you to a maximum altitude of 3,840 meters in height over sea level at Lo-Manthang.
You must obtain a special permit called the "Upper Mustang Trekking Permit" to trek in the Upper Mustang region.
You will stay in lodges and teahouses during the Upper Mustang Trek. The accommodation is basic but comfortable, and you can expect a clean bed, a hot shower, and delicious meals.
It is recommended to trekking with a guide in Upper Mustang as the trail can be challenging, and navigating can be difficult.
A guide can also enhance your overall trekking experience by providing valuable information on the region's culture, heritage, and environment.
Why it’s best to have a GUIDE when trekking in Nepal….
1) To really get to KNOW the beautiful country of Nepal. A licensed trekking guide will enhance your knowledge and appreciation of culture, flora and fauna and animals, mountaineering, and the peaks of Nepal. A guide can add so much depth and richness to your trek experience.
2) Safety. No one knows the details that will keep you safe like a trained trekking guide. Changes in the weather, changes in trail conditions, awareness of any political/social situations that could endanger you (for example, when we trekked in 2003, there was political unrest going on in certain areas; our guide knew where to go and where to avoid!)
3) Peace of mind and an uncomplicated travel experience. It takes a lot of mental energy to figure out bus timetables, to wonder about prices and bargaining, and to arrange to lodge when trails are crowded. We “could” have handled these details (we’re experienced travelers), but going out with a licensed trekking guide was the best decision and worth every dollar. Our guide kept us enchanted and informed about each peak and valley we were seeing, and he called ahead each day to confirm lodging. He gave advice that probably saved us much misery, such as “only order dishes with meat during our 1st or 2nd day of the trek...after that, it’s best to stick to egg and vegetarian options because meats have been carried in greater distances, stored for longer times, and there is the possibility of food poisoning”. Our guide kept current of weather forecasts and trail conditions and was able to make necessary modifications of which we would have been unaware.
4) The opportunity to form a friendship with a Nepali national. Trekking clients will have differing expectations of socializing, but in our case, we greatly enjoyed getting to know our guide, sharing meals, learning about Nepali life and culture through his eyes, enjoying laughs and after-dinner card games, and truly feeling like we were a group of “3 travelers + guide = 4”.
In conclusion, if you do not hire a trekking guide, it is possible to save a little money. But, my strong recommendation is that you trek with a GUIDE when exploring the amazing mountains of Nepal. Twice we have trekked Nepal, and twice we have had a guide….and we never regretted the decision for a moment.
~Becky Johnson
April 2019 - Mardi Himal Trek
(Guide: Sujan Pandey, Founder & Lead Guide of the company “Himalayan Connection”)