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Explore the Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal, a journey to the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang. Discover Tibetan culture, desert landscapes, and hidden monasteries in this unique, restricted region beyond the Himalayas.
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Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal: Discover the Forbidden Kingdom This Upper Mustang Trek is a unique and memorable adventure in Nepal and offers trekkers the opportunity to experience an area that is among the most remote and richly cultured regions of the Himalayas. The region is known for its "Last Forbidden Kingdom," Upper Mustang lies in the under the Annapurna as well as the Dhaulagiri ranges, which makes it an ideal destination in the monsoon months. This remarkable journey is a blend of breathtaking desert landscapes, an ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, and long-standing monasteries, with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. The hike up to Upper Mustang is not just an adventure but a journey back in the past. Why Trek to Upper Mustang? Upper Mustang trek was restricted to visitors from outside the country until 1992. Today, it is still required an additional permit that helps preserve its unspoiled nature and culture. The region is characterized by a strong
Tibetan influence and you will see this in the dress, language fashion, lifestyle, and even the architecture. The most memorable part of the hike will be Lo Manthang, the walled city which served as the capital city of the Mustang Kingdom. In this city, visitors can discover historic palaces, traditional dwellings as well as monasteries from the past. There are also the sky caves that are carved into cliffs that are believed to have been used for meditative or burial reasons. Upper Mustang Trek Highlights: ● Explore the city's walled walls in Lo Manthang ● Visit monasteries that are centuries old, such as Namgyal Gompa and Ghar Gompa ● Take a look at the stunning desert landscape and the unique rock formations ● Get stunning mountain views of Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri ● Find out More Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditional healing practices. ● Do not go through the monsoon season due to the location of the region in rain shadow ● Explore barren cliffs, long valleys, and quaint villages Best Time to Visit Upper Mustang The most ideal times to trek are: ● Spring (March to May):Clear skies blossoming flowers, and warm temperatures make spring a perfect time to go on a hike. ● summer (June through July): Due to the shadow of rain This is one of the few locations located in Nepal in which monsoon trek can be done. ● The autumn season (September until October): Offers crystal-clear mountain views and pleasant weather.
The winter season (December through January) is not a good time to travel because of frigid temperatures and icy trails. How Difficult Is the Trek? It is believed that the Upper Mustang Trek is considered moderate. It doesn't require professional trekkers but a good level of fitness levels are essential. The highest elevation you can reach is about 3,800 meters (Lo Manthang) and the trails are generally dirt and dry. Certain parts of the hike are narrow and traverse cliffs that are steep. For instance, the Kali Gandaki Gorge section can be difficult. The weather can be windy particularly in the afternoon. Upper Mustang Trek Permits Since Upper Mustang is a restricted zone, you'll need two permits: ● Access to Restricted Area Permit Per person, USD 500 for 10 days. After that, USD 50 per day thereafter. ● Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): USD 20 per person. You must go on a trek with an approved guide and authorized trekking company.For details on Upper Mustang Trek permits, refer to our main trek page 14-Day Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary Day One: The arrival in Kathmandu Get your driver and relax in your hotel. Explore Thamel If you have the time. Day 2 Trek Preparation Day Examine your gear, permit and make last-minute shopping. Day 3: Drive to Pokhara (6-7 hours) Take an idyllic drive to Pokhara the city on the lake in Nepal.
Day 4 Travel to Jomsom and hike to Kagbeni (2-3 hours) Fly for a brief time and then begin the trek to Kagbeni. Day 5: Trek to Chele (5-6 hours) Take a walk along the Kali Gandaki River and reach Chele village. day 6 The trek to Geling (5-6 hours) Explore beautiful small villages and cliffs. Day 7: Trek to Dhakmar (5-6 hours) Explore red cliffs and visit chortens that date back to the past. Day 8: Trek to Lo Manthang (6-7 hours) The capital of the ancient city is within reach and visit the city's walled. Day 9 Discover Lo Manthang Explore the palace of the royal family along with monasteries and other nearby villages. Day 10: Trek to Yara (6-7 hours) Explore remote villages and the riverbeds. Day 11: Trek to Tangge (7-8 hours) A long and difficult day traversing Dhi La Pass. Day 12: Trek to Chhuksang (6-7 hours) Take in views of the barren landscape and cliffs. Day 13 The trek through Jomsom by Muktinath (6-7 hours) Visit the famed pilgrimage site prior to descending. Day 14 Take a flight back Pokhara and then fly to Kathmandu Then, you can end your trek, and then return to Kathmandu. Trek Cost Overview The price varies based on season, the size of the group and the services. On average: ● Solo travelers: USD 2,000 to USD 2,300
● Group travel: USD 1,500 to USD 2,00 The price includes permits, transportation guide, porter accommodation, meals, and guide. Personal expenses and flights are not included. Packing List for Upper Mustang Trek To prepare, refer to our packing list for Upper Mustang Trek and bring the essentials: Clothing: ● The fleece and down jacket ● Quick-dry t-shirts, hiking pants and hiking shirts ● Thermal underwear and rain jackets ● Warm gloves, hats, and socks Gear: ● Backpack (30-40L) ● Sleeping bag (-10degC comfort) ● Trekking poles ● Headlamp and additional batteries Personal Items: ● Lip balm and sunscreen ● Purification tablets and water bottle ● Medicines and toiletries are essential. ● Energy bars and snacks Cultural Insights Upper Mustang is home to the Loba people, who adhere to Tibetan Buddhism. Prayer wheels are everywhere as well as mani walls and cave
monasteries that date back to the past. Unique practices like polyandry and sky burials still are practiced in certain villages. A visit to an Amchi (traditional physician) will provide you with an insight into the ancient Tibetan treatment. Conclusion Walking within Upper Mustang is more than simply walking. It's a journey through an unspoiled culture and distinctive landscape. If you're interested in its ancient cities, the dramatic landscape, or deeply spiritual practices, Upper Mustang will leave you feeling inspired. This is a trip for people who wish to discover an entirely different aspect of Nepal which is unspoiled by modernization and brimming with the wisdom of the past.For booking and detailed information, visit: The Himalayan Odyssey .