Upper Mustang Trekking: 17 Days

Trip Introduction: Upper Mustang Trek 2024-2025

Upper Mustang Trekking-17 Days is an exotic tour and one of Nepal's most mysterious and popular treks. It has been described as the desert in the Nepalese Himalayas. "Mustang' is a Tibetan-derived word meaning fertile plain' in Nepali. Geographically, it is located in the north of Annapurna at an average altitude of 4,000m and is culturally part of the Tibetan plateau. The landscape of Mustang is dry, with naturally carved sandstone pillars and discontinuous moraine terraces; these all present a naturally colorful variety of red, yellow, and brown together. The trek to Mustang is through an almost treeless and infertile landscape. You experience the strong wind blowing across the area as it is a rain-shadow area of Nepal.

The most convenient way to get to the upper Mustang is to fly from Pokhara to Jomsom and start the trek there. The flight is an attraction in itself, passing through the deepest gorge in the world. Upper Mustang Trekking is perfect for visiting the oldest Buddhist monasteries, many historic caves, and the beauty of the Himalayas. This trek brings you into the hidden world of the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Mustang, also called Lo. This semi-autonomous region is heavily Tibetan-influenced.

The trek to Lo-Manthang (the walled capital) is almost through a treeless barren landscape, a steep rocky trail, and a downhill. Panoramic views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and several other peaks make your trek memorable. Upper Mustang is also known as "the last forbidden" kingdom of Nepal". The landscape here is stunning.

A lifestyle of people residing calmly, even in such a harsh environment, has charm. Lo-Manthang, Chooser Cave, and Ghar Gompa are significant attractions of Upper Mustang Trekking. TiJi is the most fantastic festival in the Mustang Region. It will be a unique privilege to witness the same color, costume, dancing, and rituals displayed by these people in this place more than 600 years ago.

Before 1991, Upper Mustang was a restricted area for foreigners to enter. The Nepal Department of Immigration started issuing a small number of Special Trekking permits in 1991. Foreigners are allowed, and the Upper Mustang has become the best tourist attraction worldwide. You can do a camping trek and a teahouse trek. Tea house treks are comparatively the least costly; however, lodge-to-lodge stays are also available. So, get ready to explore this exotic trekking route with Trekking Planner Nepal to make it more convenient and memorable.

Where does the Upper Mustang Trek Start and End?

We take the air route, which follows the world's deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki Gorge, between Annapurna I (8,091m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167m) mountains. Upon arrival, collect the gear and supplies and trek for 3 hours to Kagbeni, alongside the Kali Gandaki River and the magnificent mountain view.

Kagbeni is the main entrance to this trek, and today the trail starts with an uphill for half an hour, leaving the Kali-Gandaki River behind for a while. The path leads to the harsh, barren countryside, with occasional stops, passing through a few small villages as the walk progresses to Tangbe. Another hour of good walking from Tangbe reaches Chussang.

Then, walk towards Chele village after crossing the stream through the broken canyons and ruined castle walls on the surrounding cliffs. Across the river from Chussang are some spectacular red eroded cliffs above the mouths of inaccessible caves. After crossing the small bridge, an uphill walk for 45 minutes brings you to Chele Village. From Chele village, the walk gets steeper for an hour up to the ridge at 3,130m; from here, you can get a good view of Gyagar across a vast canyon. The trek continues with a slow climb on the windswept terrain until the pass reaches 3,540m. From here, the trail heads gradually up to Samar.

After a short climb above Samar Village to a ridge and downhill leading to a large gorge past a chorten, the walk continues into another valley with juniper trees. After crossing the stream, the walk follows an uphill path to a ridge at 3,800 m. The trail climbs over another pass, and from here, the route descends to Shyangmochen, a small settlement with few tea shops.

From Geling, the trail climbs gradually through the fields up the valley's center, passing below the settlements. The walk continues a long climb across the head of the valley to the Nyi La pass (3,950 m), the trek's highest point. The key itself happens to be the southern boundary of Lo. From here, a slow descent for half an hour brings you to a junction; the right path leads directly to Tsarang, while the left leads to Ghami village, one of the main towns in the Lo region. From here, the final climb brings you to a 3,600m pass. After the last receipt, a gentle descent leads to Tsarang, an exciting village.

(The Capital of Mustang), the trail goes up and down through several exciting villages, along with the river and a nice big Chorten. This walk offers a nice mountain view and a vast, windswept landscape as you cross several passes. Finally, reach the Lo Manthang.

The people are amicable and exciting here in Lo Manthang. One of the largest villages in this trek has about 160 houses and many lamas. The school, health post, police post, and several important chortens are located outside the walls, north of the gate and east of the monastic part of the city.

Then descend and make a less short climb to Ghami, crossing a few passes with a nice view of the valley and mountain. Once you reach the Ghami, you must explore and around it. It has many important things to see.

Retrace back to Kagbeni: more descend and less ascend. Retrace your steps back to Jomsom on a very gradual walk along the Kali-Gandaki Valley. This trek offers a fantastic view of the Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri Mountains.

After an early breakfast at the hotel, your guide will take you to the airport for a short but scenic flight to Pokhara. Leisure Day in Pokhara.

How to know if upper Mustang Trekking is Right for Me?

The trek is challenging but worth it trek that takes you through a remote and beautiful part of Nepal. The hike is not for everyone, and it is essential to carefully consider your fitness level, experience, and budget before deciding if it is right for you.

Here are some factors Trekking Planner Nepal wants travelers to consider when deciding if the Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal is right for them:

• Fitness level: Upper Mustang is a determined trek that requires a good fitness level. You will be walking for several hours each day, and you will be carrying a day's backpack with your gear, while porters will be taking all your kinds of stuff during the trek. The trek is also high altitude, and you must get acclimatized to the mountains before you start trekking.
• Experience: Upper Mustang Trek is not a beginner's trek. It is vital to have some experience trekking in the Himalayas before you attempt to do this trek. You should also be comfortable with essential services and trekking skills.
• Budget: Upper Mustang is relatively expensive. You must consider the factors of permits, transportation, accommodation, food, and gear.(When you book a trek with Nepal trekking planner, food accommodation and a guide porter are included)

If you are fit, experienced, and have the budget, then the Upper Mustang Trek can be a fantastic experience. However, it is essential to consider all the factors carefully before deciding if it is right for you.

Why should I select the Upper Mustang Trek? What is the specialty?

• To experience unique culture and history: Upper Mustang is a remote and isolated region largely untouched by the outside world. A fascinating place to learn about Tibetan culture and history.
• To trek through the stunning Himalayan landscape: Upper Mustang is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Nepal. The trek takes you through various landscapes, from towering mountains to lush valleys.
• To see the ancient Monasteries and Temples of Mustang: Upper Mustang is home to several ancient monasteries and temples. These monasteries are a testament to the rich history and culture of Mustang.
• Culture and History: Upper Mustang have a rich history and culture. The region was once part of the Tibetan Empire and retained many Tibetan traditions and customs. Visitors can learn about the region's history and culture by visiting its many monasteries, temples, and villages.
• Trekking: Upper Mustang is a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts. The region is home to several well-established trekking trails offering stunning Himalayas views. Trekking is a great way to experience the region's natural beauty and culture.
• Monasteries and Temples: Upper Mustang is home to several ancient monasteries and temples. These monasteries are a testament to the region's rich history and culture. Visitors can learn about the region's history and culture by visiting its many monasteries and temples.
• TiJi Festival: The TiJi Festival is an annual major cultural event in Upper Mustang. The festival celebrates Tibetan Buddhism and features several colorful dances and rituals. Visitors can experience the festival firsthand and learn about Tibetan culture.

Why is Upper Mustang Known as the Hidden Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal?

Mustang is known as the Forbidden Kingdom because it was once a remote and isolated region closed to foreigners. The area was once part of the Tibetan Empire and retains many Tibetan Traditions and customs. Visitors to Mustang can learn about the region's history and culture by visiting its many monasteries, temples, and villages.

The region was closed to foreigners until 1992, when the Nepalese government opened it to tourism. However, several restrictions were still in place even after it was opened to tourism. For example, visitors were required to have a special permit to enter the region, and they were not allowed to travel beyond a certain point. These restrictions were lifted in 2008, and now visitors can travel to any part of Mustang.

Despite lifting restrictions, Mustang is still known as the Forbidden Kingdom. The region is still remote and isolated and has a unique culture and history, unlike Nepal. Visitors to Mustang can experience a sense of adventure and discovery, and they can learn about a culture that is still largely untouched by the outside world.

Here are some of the reasons why Trekking in Mustang Nepal was once closed to foreigners:

• Security Concerns: The Nepalese government was concerned about the region's security and wanted to control who could enter.
• Cultural Concerns: The Nepalese government wanted to protect the region's unique culture and heritage from outside influences.
• Economic Concerns: The Nepalese government wanted to encourage tourism to the region, and they believed that opening it up to foreigners would help boost the economy.

Today, Mustang is a popular tourist destination and is no longer considered a forbidden kingdom. However, the region retains its unique culture and heritage and is a fascinating place to visit.

What are the Permits Required for Upper Mustang Trek?

A special permit is required for Trekking in Upper Mustang region of nepal. A Department in Kathmandu issues the permit which has a very good relationship with Trekking Planner Nepal. To apply for the permit, you will need to provide the following documents to Trekking Planner Nepal:

• A valid passport.
• A copy of your passport.
• A visa for Nepal.
• A recent passport-sized photograph.
• A completed application form.
• A trekking permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area.
• The permit costs $500 for the first ten days and $50 for each additional day. The permit is valid for 30 days.
• You can apply for a permit through Trekking Planner Nepal. We will handle the paperwork if you use a Trekking Planner in Nepal.
• Once you have the permit, our guide will show it to the police and immigration officials at the checkpoints in Upper Mustang.
• The permit is nonrefundable.
• The permit must be carried with you or by your guide when trekking in Upper Mustang.
• You must show the permit to the police and immigration officials at the checkpoints in Upper Mustang.
• You will be fined if you are caught Trekking in Upper Mustang without a permit. The fine is $100 per day.

How to Prepare for Upper Mustang Trek?

Here are some tips for how to prepare for Upper Mustang Trek:

• Get in shape: The trek is challenging, so getting in shape before you go is essential. Start walking regularly and gradually increase the distance you walk each day. You can also try hiking or running to get in better shape.
• Pack light: Porter will carry your backpack on the trek while you bring a day bag pack, so it is crucial to consider an appropriate weight with all the necessary items. Only pack the essentials, and leave anything you don't need behind.
• Be prepared for the altitude: The trek involves high altitude walk, so it is essential to be prepared for altitude sickness. Altitude sickness is a severe condition that can affect anyone who goes to high altitudes. To prevent altitude sickness, ascending slowly and gradually and drinking plenty of fluids are essential.
• Be prepared for the weather: The weather in Upper Mustang can be unpredictable. Be designed for all types of weather, including hot, cold, wet, and dry.
• Hire a guide: It is a mandatory to hire a guide for the Upper Mustang Trek. Our guides can help you navigate the trail, find accommodation, and learn about the local culture.
• Be respectful of the local culture: Upper Mustang is a remote and traditional area. Be respectful of the local culture and customs.

Here are some additional tips for preparing for Upper Mustang trekking:

• Learn about the region: History, culture, and geography. It will help you appreciate the experience more.
• Talk to other people who have done the trek. Get their advice on what to expect and what to pack.
• Join a trekking group: This is a great way to meet other people interested in trekking and get support from experienced trekkers.
• Do your research. Many resources are available online and in libraries to help you prepare for the trek.

By following these tips, you can prepare yourself for a safe and enjoyable trek.

Is upper Mustang Dangerous?

The Upper Mustang Trek is not dangerous but poses some risks. The main threats include altitude sickness, bad weather, and the region's inaccessibility.

Altitude sickness is a severe condition that can affect anyone who goes to high altitudes. It is caused by the lack of oxygen at high altitudes.

Bad weather is another risk factor for the Upper Mustang Trek. The weather in the region can be unpredictable and change quickly. Trekkers should be prepared for all types of weather, including rain, snow, and wind.

The remoteness of the Upper Mustang is also a risk factor. The region is located in a remote part of Nepal and is not easily accessible. In the event of an emergency, it may be challenging to get help.

Despite these risks, the trek is a safe and enjoyable experience for most people. Trekkers can significantly reduce the risk of problems by taking the necessary precautions.

Can we get Altitude Sickness at upper Mustang?

Altitude, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a common concern for trekkers and climbers who trek into high-altitude regions. Upper Mustang, located in the Himalayas of Nepal, is no exception.

Upper Mustang reaches elevations above 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), which puts trekkers at risk of altitude-related illnesses. Altitude sickness occurs when your body fails to acclimatize correctly to the reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes. The risk increases as you ascend rapidly without giving your body enough time to adjust.

Symptoms of altitude sickness can vary from mild to severe and may include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping. Sometimes, it can lead to High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) or High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), which are life-threatening conditions.

Trekking planner Nepal recommends the following measures to reduce the risk of altitude sickness during your Upper Mustang trek; consider the following precautions:

• Gradual Ascent: Allow your body enough time to acclimatize by ascending slowly. Don't push your body more than it can take. Taking some rest days for acclimatization to the altitude, not ascending more than 300–500 meters (1,000–1,600 feet) per day, and taking some breaks along the walk.
• Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and even one hydration drink daily, preferably water. Also, maintain a balanced diet and consume enough nutrients and calories to provide energy for your trek.
• Medications: Consult a healthcare professional about medications that may help prevent or alleviate altitude sickness. Medicine should not replace proper acclimatization and should be used under medical guidance.
• Listen to your body: Pay attention to the symptoms you may experience, communicate with your trekking guide, and be honest with the manual. If you notice worsening symptoms, it's crucial to descend to lower altitudes immediately, sometimes, even rescues might be required. So listen to your body and stay honest about your body conditions.
• Adequate Rest: Allow sufficient rest during the trek to help your body adjust and recover from the physical and mental effort. Sleep for at least 8 hours per day.
• Knowledgeable Guide: Trekking Planner Nepal provides a local guide who is experienced in trekking at high altitudes and understands the symptoms and risks of altitude sickness. They can provide guidance, monitor your health, and take appropriate action regarding necessities.

Everyone's physical and mental tolerance towards altitude varies, and even fit individuals can be affected. Knowing your body's capacity and taking the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek is crucial.

Local Culture and Traditions around Upper Mustang Trail

The local culture and traditions of Upper Mustang are an attractive blend of Tibetan and Nepali Cultures combined and mixed. The region was once part of the Tibetan Empire, ruled by a king, and it still retains many Tibetan traditions and customs and even symbolizes Nepali traditions and customs. Visitors to Upper Mustang can learn about the region's history and culture by visiting its local people, monasteries, temples, and villages.

One of the most critical aspects of local culture in Upper Mustang is the Guru Padmasambhava (Tibetan Buddhism). Most people in the region practice Tibetan Buddhism (BON), and numerous monasteries and chortens (Buddhist stupas) exist throughout the region. The most famous monastery is the Lo Gekar Monastery, the oldest in Nepal.

Another important aspect of local culture in Upper Mustang is the Tibetan language. Most people in the region speak Tibetan, which is the region's official language. However, Nepali is also widely spoken in Upper Mustang, as it is the official language of Nepal.

In addition to Tibetan Buddhism and the Tibetan language, there are several other important aspects of local culture in Upper Mustang. These include the following:

• The Local Dress: The traditional style of the Upper Mustang's dress is Tibetan. Men wear a long robe called a chuba, and women wear a long gown called a Kira.
• The Local Food: The traditional food of the Upper Mustang is Tibetan in style. The most common dishes include Thakali Khana set, tsampa (roasted barley flour), thukpa (noodle soup), and Momo (dumplings).
• The Local Festivals: The most important festivals in Upper Mustang are the Tiji Festival and the Mani Rimdu Festival. The Tiji Festival is a Buddhist festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. The Mani Rimdu Festival is a Buddhist festival that celebrates the teachings of Guru Rinpoche.

We advise by learning about the local culture and traditions of Upper Mustang, visitors can gain more profound gratitude and learn more about the region and its people.

Accommodation Facilities at Upper Mustang

Here are some tips for choosing accommodations in Upper Mustang according to trekking planner Nepal:

The accommodation facilities during Upper Mustang Trekking are basic but comfortable. You can choose to stay in teahouses or guesthouses along the trek. The teahouses and guesthouses offer clean and comfortable rooms with basic facilities like a bed, blanket, and pillow.

• Book Your Accommodation in Advance: Trekking Planner Nepal books your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak trekking season (March–May and September–November). The best accommodations can fill up quickly, so book as early as possible.
• Consider Your Budget: Accommodation in Upper Mustang can be expensive. It is essential to consider your budget when choosing accommodations.
• Think About Your Needs: Consider your needs when choosing accommodations. If you are looking for a comfortable place to stay, you may want to choose a guesthouse. If you are looking for a more affordable option, you may want to select a teahouse.

Note - when you select Trekking Planner Nepal as your travel companion, everything is arranged by Trekking Planner Nepal so the travellers won't have to worry about almost most things.

Types of Foods available at Upper Mustang

When Trekking in Upper Mustang or any high-altitude region, it's crucial to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet to support your energy levels and overall well-being. Here are some food recommendations for your Upper Mustang Trek:

• Carbohydrates: foods rich in carbohydrates are available during most of the trail, as they provide the necessary energy for trekking, like rice, pasta, bread, oats, quinoa, and potatoes. These foods are easily digestible and available and can fuel your body for the physical demands required during trekking as carbohydrates turn into glucose faster.
• Protein: Protein is essential for muscle repair and recovery. Include lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, eggs, tofu, lentils, and beans. These foods can be prepared in various ways, including soups, stews, curries, or stir-fries. Carrying some mri packs and meats or fish will be more than beneficial since every route and tea lodge may not provide a fresh source of protein.
• Fruits and Vegetables: Consuming various fruits and vegetables is important to get essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. While fresh fruits and vegetables would be limited during the trek, you can carry dried fruits, nuts, and seeds as snacks. Additionally, some vegetables, like carrots, potatoes, and onions, are readily available during treks and can be included in meals. Try to stay away from frozen meats.
• Hydration: Staying hydrated at high altitudes prevents altitude sickness and maintains optimal performance. Hydration powders and capsules must be taken as they greatly help during dehydration. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. You can also consume hot drinks like tea or soup, which help to keep you hydrated and provide warmth.
• Trail Mix and Energy Bars: Pack some Snickers or energy/mountain bars that contain nuts, dried fruits, and caramel seeds. These lightweight and nutritious snacks are convenient for quick energy boosts during the trek. They provide an instant energy boost.
• Local Cuisine: Embrace the local cuisine of Upper Mustang for a unique cultural experience. Thakali set, which has the ingredients like Dal Bhat, a traditional Nepali dish consisting of lentil soup, rice, and curries, is a popular and nourishing choice. Try Tibetan specialties like momos (dumplings), tsampa (roasted barley flour), and thukpa shyabhaley, thenduk, mo-thuk.

Remember to consult with the Trekking Planner Nepal office representative regarding the availability and preparation of food during your trek. It's also advisable to pack some essential snacks, mountain bars, power bars, and hydration powders and consider any dietary supplements required, explicitly considering your restrictions or allergies.

Electricity and Internet Facilities at Upper Mustang

Electricity and Internet Access in Upper Mustang are limited. Most teahouses and guesthouses have generators and solar panels that provide daily electricity for a few hours. However, there is no reliable internet access and electricity in Upper Mustang.

If you need to use the internet, you can do so at a few select teahouses and guesthouses in Jomsom and Kagbeni. However, the internet connection and electricity are slow and unreliable.

Bring a solar charger or a power bank. Carry a good power bank with at least 50000 mah. It will allow you to charge your devices even with no electricity.

Download maps and offline Content for your Devices: This will allow you to navigate and stay informed even when you don't have internet access. Use some suitable offline map applications for offline maps and navigations.

Use public internet access sparingly. The internet connection in Upper Mustang is slow and unreliable. Use it only when necessary even though you might get an internet connection, it won't be reliable and stable.

Be patient. Getting connected to the internet in Upper Mustang may take some time. In some parts, connections might not be available, so don't expect internet facilities all over the trek. Be patient, and don't get frustrated.

Following these tips, you can stay connected in Upper Mustang even with limited solar electricity and internet access.

What to Pack for Upper Mustang Trek?

While packing for an Upper Mustang Trekking Adventure, Trekking Planner Nepal advises you to be well-prepared for the challenging terrain, high-altitude conditions, and varying weather. Here's a list of items you should be packing at least:

Clothing:

• Trekking Pants.
• Thermal Base Layers.
• Lightweight and Breathable Hiking T-shirts.
• Fleece Jacket or Down Jacket for Warmth.
• Waterproof and Windproof outer shell Gore-Tex jacket.
• Insulated Gloves and Hat.
• Hiking Socks (wool or synthetic Marino wool).
• Comfortable and Sturdy Hiking Boots and Flip Flops.
• Sun Hat Cap and Woollen and Beanie.
• Sunglasses with UV protection which are Polarized.

Gear and Equipment:

• Backpack (preferably with hip and chest belt support).
• Sleeping Bags, Hot Water Bags, and Inner Liners suitable for cold temperatures.
• Trekking Poles, Knee Caps, and Pain Relief Creams for added stability and reducing strain on joints.
• Headlamps or mobile flashlight flashlights work as well. Don't forget spare batteries in the cold are required.
• Water purification tablets or water bottles with filters.
• Lightweight and quick-drying towel and socks.
• Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, face wipes, hand sanitiser and toilet paper etc.).
• First aid kit, including necessary medications (provided by Trekking Planner Nepal).
• Duck Tape and a sewing kit for quick repairs.
• Trekking map and compass (provided by Trekking Planner Nepal).

Miscellaneous:

• Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder and water purification tablets.
• Snacks, energy bars hydration powders for quick energy boosts.
• Cash (Nepali currency) for purchasing supplies and services along the trek.
• Power bank or portable charger for electronic devices.
• Camera or smartphone for capturing memories.
• Travel adapter and charging cables.
• Waterproof dry bags for protecting valuables and electronics.
• Trekking permits and identification documents (trekking planner Nepal arranges permits).
• It's important to pack light and prioritize essential items. The weight of your backpack should be manageable to ensure comfort during the trek for yourself and the porter. Additionally, consider the specific season and weather conditions during your walk and have a chit-chat with the office representatives, as you may need to adjust your packing list accordingly to the number of days you're travelling for.

It's recommended to consult with senior office representatives for a comprehensive packing list that suits your specific needs and the duration of your entire trekking days.

• Plan Your Trek: It is essential to plan your outing and to book your permits and accommodations well in advance with Trekking Planner Nepal. The trekking season in Upper Mustang is from September to October and March to May.
• Get Acclimatized to the Altitude: Trekking planner Nepal advises you to get acclimatized to the size before you start trekking in Upper Mustang. You can do this by spending a few days in Kathmandu or Pokhara at a lower altitude or even by keeping some acclimatization during the trek.
• Pack Light: You will carry your day bag backpack while the porter will carry the duffel bag on the trek, so it is important to pack your necessary items. Only pack the essentials, and leave anything you don't need behind.

Be prepared for the weather. The weather in Upper Mustang can be unpredictable. Be designed for all types of weather, including hot, cold, wet, and dry. Pack your raincoats and Gater's wind layers, and keep your valuable items in your day bag packs.