Upper Mustang Trek: Discover the Hidden Kingdom of Nepal

Overview

Introduction to the Upper Mustang Trek

Nepal is a famous trekking destination worldwide because of its landscapes and cultural richness. Upper Mustang is one of the popular and perfect destinations for trekkers, known as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom".

The Upper Mustang is located inside a restricted region in northwestern Nepal that was closed to outsiders until 1992. Upper Mustang is famous for its desert landscapes and breathtaking views of the Himalayan snowcaps.

The Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountains near the Tibetan border. The Mustang upper is well preserved and still holds the charm of traditional Tibetan culture.

Upper Mustang is called the Desert of Nepal and the Pyramids. It's a perfect destination for trekking in any season without fear, so get ready for your next trip with Epic Adventures.

Trek Overview

The Upper Mustang Trek is one of the most iconic journeys into Nepal's remote area and culturally rich region, often known as "Last Forbidden Kingdom" or "Lo".

The Upper Mustang trekking route lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upper Mustang trek offers a lush greenery trail, Dramatic cliffs, and endless desert landscapes with mountain views.

The local people of Upper Mustang preserve their way of living, which is deeply connected to Tibetan culture. The locals conserved and preserved the ancient monasteries, chortens, prayer flags and 3000-year-old caves, etc.

The Upper Mustang trek begins in Jomsom after a short flight from Pokhara. Then, trekkers gradually walk through the Kali Gandaki valley towards the historic capital of Mustang, known as "Lo Manthang".

During the Upper Mustang trek in Nepal, trekkers pass through small villages like Chusang, Samar, Ghiling, and Charang. In the village, white washed houses stand against hills and snow-capped peaks.

The upper Mustang trek offers natural beauty and a traditional museum of Tibetan Buddhism, festivals, Ritual dances, and Gompas that have been practised for generations.

The Upper Mustang trip lies inside the restricted zone, so the visitors or trekkers need special permits, which help to maintain the culture, nature, and environmental integrity.

The Upper Mustang trek is moderately challenging due to dry and windy conditions with an altitude of over 3800 meters. The Upper Mustang trek is not only a trek but a rare chance to explore the untouched Himalayan kingdom with limited facilities, where nature and traditional culture have been preserved for centuries.

The Upper Mustang Trek requires three special permits called Restricted Area Permit (RAP) ,Annapurna Conservation Area permits (ACAP), and a Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card to do the trek. Solo trekking is not allowed in this route; this trek requires at least two trekkers. Trekkers should complete the trek during the Upper Mustang trek in Nepal during the given time.

The Upper Mustang trek is your chance to connect with desert landscapes and the Himalayan snow-capped peaks, explore the local culture, caves, monasteries and rituals. You will understand the lifestyle of the local people and observe the traditional apple farming.

The Upper Mustang trek gives you a lifetime experience, combining natural beauty and cultural experience. During the trek, the trekkers will return with unforgettable memories and pictures in their hearts and eyes.

The Upper Mustang Trek takes 15 to 17 days to complete. During the trek, you will pass through the Kali Gandaki Gorge (deepest gorge in the world), the desert, the Himalayas and many small villages.

Lo manthang: The Ultimate Destination

Lo manthang is the historical capital of Mustang, a small street surrounded by white colored houses built with stones. The local people are called Loba, and their culture and traditions are similar to those of western Tibet.

In the 15th to 20th centuries, Lomanthang was a trade route between India, China, and Nepal. Lamanthang was the home of generations of kings, including the last king Jigme Dorje Palbar Bista, who is now isolated.

The local people and their festivals reflect the traditional culture of Tibetan and Shakyapa. Lomanthang offers a stunning view of deserts and peaks with three thousand years old caves, monasteries, gumbas, chortens and prayer flags. 

The highlight itinerary:

• Arrival in Kathmandu
• Flight to Pokohara
• Fly to Jomsom, Trek to Kagbeni
• Trek to Chusang
• Trek to Samar
• Trek to Ghiling
• Trek to Charang
• Trek to Lo Manthang and Acclimatisation
• Descend back to Kathmandu

If you want to explore the whole kingdom, Upper Mustang could be your best option for trekking with Epic Adventures.

Best Season For Upper Mustang Trek

The best season to explore and trek to Upper Mustang is Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September-November). But the upper mustang lies in the rain shadow so you can do it in the off-season. The trekking routes offer stable weather, temperatures, dry winds with desert landscapes, and clear skies, which make for more comfortable trekking conditions.

Season Overview

Spring (March – May): This season offers a view of clear skies, Annapurna ranges, Nilgiri ranges, medium temperatures and blooming wildflowers on parts of the trails. During this season, you can observe a cultural event, the Tiji festival at Lo Manthang, which adds a rich cultural dimension.

Summer/Monsoon (June-August): This season also could be your choice. The Upper Mustang trekking route lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, so there is a low chance of rain even in the monsoon.

During the time, trails are less crowded and the landscapes look vivid with warm temperatures, but winds can be stronger in the evening.

Autumn (September-November): Autumn is known for the peak season for trekking in Nepal. During the autumn, you will find the most stable weather conditions, clear visibility of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri with the Thorong La pass, and minimum wind, making it more comfortable during the trek.

Winter (December-February): It's possible to do the Upper Mustang trek in winter, but not ideal. Some lodges could be closed during the winter, but not all lodges; the temperature could drop. Winter is more challenging than other seasons; snow can block the high passes in winter.

Select the best time to trek to Upper Mustang with Epic Adventures. We will take you to the Kingdom of Lo or Ko-Rala border (4600m) for a lifetime experience. Different seasons give different vibes and change your trekking experience during the Upper Mustang trek.

Weather condition Highlights:

• Desert land with dry winds
• Snow in winter
• Low chance of rain
• Clear skies and stable weather

Local Culture and Lifestyles

The Upper Mustang is situated in the remote Himalayan region of Nepal. The communities of Upper Mustang follow Tibetan Buddhism, with a rich and unique culture that has been preserved for centuries. Monasteries, prayer flags, and chortens symbolize spiritual power and parts of the Landscapes.

The main festival of Upper Mustang was known as Tiji, where the entire community gathered together at heritage and celebrated with traditional dances and costumes. The people of Upper Mustang are deeply engaged in traditional agriculture and animal husbandry. They use Yaks, Sheep, and goats for milk, meat, and Wool, while horses and Mules are used for transportation.

Accommodation and Food on the Trail

 Basic accommodation is provided by tea houses/lodges, which offer you a traditional cooked meal with hospitality.

Main meals: Dal Bhat (Nepali Set Meal), Fried Rice, Noodles, Thukpa, Mo: mo (dumplings), Pasta/Spaghetti, Pizza, Tibetan Bread/Chapati, etc.

Soups And Snacks: Garlic Soup, Vegetable Soup, Noodle Soup, French Fries/ Potato Wedges, Boiled Potatoes with Salt and Chilli, etc.

Breakfast and Beverage: Porridge, Pancakes, Tibetan Bread with Jam or Honey, Omelettes, Toast with Jam, Milk Tea, Black Tea, Coffee, Hot Lemon, Hot Chocolate, Boiled Water, etc.

The lodges make other meals as you requested and choices. But during the trek, we recommend you try local cuisine.

Trip Itinerary Overview

The Upper Mustang trek takes 15 to 18 days to complete. The itinerary depends on the trekkers' rest day and acclimatization days. If you have enough time, we recommend you make the trip comfortable with rest days and more exploration.

Your adventure trek to the Upper Mustang begins with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and from Pokhara to Jomsom (gateway of Upper Mustang). After landing at Jomsom, we will hike to Kagbeni for an overnight stay.

The next day, you will hike to Chusang, which offers the first views of desert landscapes and Himalayan snowcapped mountains, and then hike to Samar, Ghiling, and Charang, where we can observe a Gumbas.

On your 9th day, you will hike to Lo Manthang, known as the historical capital of Mustang, a small street surrounded by white colored houses built with stones. After an overnight stay, we will explore around Lo Manthang the next day.

It offers a stunning view of desert landscapes and peaks with three thousand years old caves, monasteries, gumbas, chortens and prayer flags. You explore the royal palace of the last king, Jinma Palvar Bista, who is now isolated and traditional cultures simmering in Tibetan culture.

After a wonderful time at Lo Manthang, we will return by the same route, passing through Ghami, Samar, Kagbeni and Jomsom and transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay. You will fly to Pokhara from Jomsom the next morning and stay overnight.

After breakfast, fly or drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, or stay overnight. On the last day of your trek, our guide or staff will drive you to the airport for your final departure.

Key itinerary:

• Arrival in Kathmandu
• Fly or drive to Pokohara
• Fly to Jomsom, Trek to Kagbeni
• Trek to Chusang
• Trek to Samar
• Trek to Ghiling
• Trek to Charang
• Trek to Lo Manthang and Acclimatisation
• Trek to Ghami
• Trek to Samar
• Trek to Kagbeni
• Trek to Jomsom
• Fly to Pokhara
• Drive or fly to Kathmandu
• International departure

Permits for Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang trek route lies in a Restricted Area, where solo travel is not allowed. The Upper Mustang Trek requires three special permits to enter the restricted area. Permits area:

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP):

This permit is mandatory for entering the Upper Mustang, a restricted region beyond Kagbeni. The permit is issued only through a registered Nepali trekking agency. Solo trekking is not permitted.

• Annapurna Conservation Area permits (ACAP)
• Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card
• Travel Insurances
• Check in with local authorities

Sustainable Trek with Eco-Friendly Practices

Nepal is rich naturally and culturally, which attracts thousands of trekkers each season. The Upper Mustang Trekking route is also a newly opened and popular destination with desert landscapes. Practising responsible and sustainable trekking with eco-friendly behaviour can support and promote the local communities.

Practices during trek:

• Minimize waste
• Leave No Trace
• Do not throw plastic
• Follow the mark trials
• Respect wildlife and nature
• Support local customs and economies

Budget and Costs

The budget for the Upper Mustang trek is also very important and essential. All the costs are based on the costs of accommodation, amenities, permit fees and transportation. Accommodation, permits, food, and beverages are the main expenses for this trek.

The teahouses and lodges offer different prices depending on the location, altitude, and transportation challenges. All the food items are reasonable, and mostly meals are Nepali dishes.

Some additional costs:

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• Annapurna Conservation Area permits (ACAP)
• Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card for trekkers registrations
• Hiring guides, porters
• If needed transportation

We suggest you carry some extra cash to cover emergencies or unexpected costs. We think a well-planned budget gives us a stress-free experience.

Safety, Health and Altitude Sickness

Safety concerns: weather conditions (5%rain chance, snow in winter, rocky trail, narrow trail, clear skies, dry winds)

Heath and Altitude sickness: water and food hygiene (drink purified or boiled water only), cold and Hypothermia, Injuries

Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness:

• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue or weakness
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Loss of appetite
• Trouble Sleeping
• Shortness of breath with exertion

Prevention:

• Stay Hydrated (drink enough water, 3-4 litres)
• Avoid alcohol and smoking
• If you are prone to AMS, consult your doctor first
• Always keep a first aid kit
• Walk slowly and steadily
• Do not rush
• Listen to your body

Why to Hire a Guide for the Upper Mustang Trek?

Guided tours provide significant benefits, especially for first time trekkers in Nepal. These tours often include accommodation, meals and a knowledgeable guide. The guides offer insights into local culture and ensure safety on unfamiliar terrains.

Here are some key factors:

• To get the permits for the Restricted Area
• For your safety and emergency support, such as handling altitude sickness (AMS), injuries, and Emergency rescues
• Newly opened destination, less crowded
• Leave stress and safety, focus on enjoying the beauty of nature and culture
• Guides are experienced, and they know original and alternative routes in case any situation arises
• To explain the Local cultures, Rituals, Customs, and festivals
• Communicate with local people
• Support the local economy and interact

Physical Preparation and Training for Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang trek takes 15 to 18 days to complete, so the trek requires good physical fitness and mental preparation to complete the trek if you are planning to do an Upper Mustang trek.

• Here are some tips:
• Start training 8 – 10 weeks before the trek
• Build cardiovascular endurance (hiking, cycling, running, swimming)
• Train your Legs, core, back, and shoulders
• Do hikes to enhance your strength
• Improve your balance and flexibility by focusing on recovery
• Prepare for discomfort mentally
• Don't compare yourself with others on the trail. Just go "slow and steady"

Conclusion: Why Upper Mustang Trek Should be Your Next  Destination?

Upper Mustang Trek should be your next trekking destination because it offers a rare combination of breathtaking desert landscapes and a traditional culture similar to Tibetan culture. You can explore the ancient monasteries, centuries-old caves, and festivals like Tiji, which are protected by the modern generation.

The Upper Mustang trekking destination is the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. During the Upper Mustang trek, you will walk through a high-altitude desert with striking red cliffs, wind-eroded canyons, and a stunning view of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri.

The Upper Mustang trek gives you a lifetime experience with Epic Adventures, combining natural beauty and cultural experience.  During the Upper Mustang trek, the trekkers return with unforgettable memories and experiences. So, Book the trip with Epic Adventures Nepal for discovering the Hidden Kingdom Of Nepal.

Trip Preparation