Lower Mustang Trek

Also known as The Forbidden Kingdom' trek, is one of the most exciting and adventurous trekking to the largest protected biodiversity zone.

Trip Code
AMT - TREK - 210
Best Season

Spring, Autumn & Winter

Trip Grade

⭐⭐⭐

Max Altitude

Muktinath (3,795m/12,447ft)

Accomodation

Teahouses/Lodges

Transportation

Flight/Jeep or Bus

Meals

BB/Full Board

Group Size

Any

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Introduction

The short and scenic route of Lower Mustang Trek is a perfect combination of natural and cultural experiences in the Annapurna & Mustang regions of Nepal. All the parts are surrounded by the world's popular Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges. We can consider the trek as an easy and scenic is suitable for beginner to experienced trekkers. Highlights of the Lower Mustang Trekking includes comprises of Ghorepani, Poonhill as well as Jomsom, Muktinath where we explore the cultural tradition & lifestyle of indigenous peoples; Gurung, Magar, Thakali, charming villages, landscapes, flora & fauna, ascend to Poonhill viewpoint for tantalizing sunrise view over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massif, explore world’s deepest Kali Gandaki gorge (Valley), holy religious temple.

Lower Mustang Trek takes you into the hidden world of Mustang's old Buddhist kingdom, also known as the Tibetan empire and is thus closely related to Tibet. Tibetan Buddhism is still practiced in a very pure form and villages are built in Tibetan style, with whitewashed houses tucked onto the roofs with firewood.

Additionally, the landscape is closely related to Tibet. Mustang lies in the region of a rain shadow and is dominated by the Dhaulagiri family and the Tukuche Range. The villages with their brightly colored fields are like an oasis in lower mustang Nepal has a barren landscape.

Lower Mustang Trek Features:

  • Short and easy trekking in the Annapurna region combined with Ghorepani Poonhill Trek and Jomsom Muktinath trail.
  • Up to Poonhill viewpoint at 3,210 meters for best views of over 20 snow-capped peaks around Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massif.
  • Explore the unique culture of hospitable locals with their way of living.
  • Visit the holy temple Muktinath, the apple garden of Marpha, and walk along the world’s deepest gorge of Kali Gandaki river valley.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) and transfer to Hotel.

Adventure Mountain Nepal Trekking and Climbing’s airport arrival and departure representative will meet you at the airport as per your arrival schedule. He/she welcomes you and drive you to the hotel. Check-in hotel and take a rest or relaxation time at Hotel. Then you can have a free excursion to know the surroundings and visit our office to get brief information of Annapurna Base Camp Trekking, we also conduct an introduction program with the trekking leader and official team. The meal includes breakfast. We prefer BB plan for your stay in cities so you can choose varieties of tastes in different restaurants around the city.

Day 02: Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu/Preparation for the trek

Breakfast at the hotel. Our guide will pick you up from the hotel for sightseeing at World Heritage Sites. Actually, there are seven World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu and we arrange sightseeing spots according to your choice, choose only 3/4 spots for a day since it is not possible to visit all places in a single day–at least 2/3 days required to have a sightseeing tour of all heritage sites in Kathmandu. World Heritage Sites of UNESCO in Kathmandu are; Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Swyambhunath Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa, and Changu Narayan Temple.

Day 03: Kathmandu to Pokhara (5-6 hrs drive or 25 minutes flight), transfer to hotel at LakeSide

Early breakfast at the hotel. Drive/ Fly to Pokhara. While driving on a bus it takes 5-6 hours via Prithivi Highway where you can see the beautiful Trishui River, Dense green forests, many green hills and several village settlements on the way. And if you choose airway, it only takes 25 minutes. Check-in hotel with welcome drinks. In the evening rest at Hotel or know the surrounding around lakeside Pokhara.

Day 04: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1 & half Hr drive) &Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,577m/5,172ft).

Breakfast at the hotel. Then drive to Nayapul for approximately 1 and half hours. When we reach Nayapul, we can take a few minutes for refreshment hot/cold drinks before starting the walk. Then we start the trek to Tikhedhunga which takes 3-4 hours walk. The trail ascends to Beritthati. Then we follow the east bank of Bhurungdi Khola to Tikhedhunge. Overnight at teahouse (Local Lodge) where you can taste different Nepalese cuisine.

Day 05: Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,855m/9,364ft) (5-6 hrs walk).

Morning walk winds up on a steep climb for near 2 hrs on the stone steps to Ulleri village. From Ulleri, the trail ascends gradually through a colorful rainforest for a few hours with a few ups and downs. The walk leads nearer to Ghorepani, feeling the altitude and change of vegetation. Trekking in the midst of rhododendron woods till Ghorepani village is reached for the overnight stop, witnessing grand views of the Dhaulagiri range of mountains in the west and Annapurna South in the north.

Day 06: Hike up to Poon Hill (3,210m/10531ft) and trek to Tatopani (1200m/3937.008ft), (7 hrs walk).

Wake up early in the morning around 4 AM and hike to Poon Hill, from this viewpoint we will see a great view of the sunrise and a panoramic view of the Himalayas, including Mt. Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna South, Fishtail, and others. After enjoying the sunrise event at Poon Hill, we will come back to the guesthouse, have a hot breakfast, and continue walking to Tatopani. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 07: Trek from Tatopani to Ghasa (2,010m/6592ft).

After having breakfast, we follow the trail that goes through Kali Gandaki River and world’s deepest Kali Gandaki valley. Continue the walk via cascading Danam Rupse waterfall and Kopchepani village. Moving ahead following ascends trail to the Thakali village of Ghasa. Ghasa is famous for ethnic culture where you can explore and observe their unique culture, lifestyle, tradition and activities.

Day 08: Trek from Ghasa to Marpha (2,670m/8,757ft)

5-6 Hrs walk Full Board Tea House available After breakfast at the teahouse, we climb through the forest to Lete Khola which eventually leads us to Lete village. After that, we walk along with Kali Gandaki River to reach Larjung village. From here we pass Tukche village and the apple farm project to reach the capital of apple garden at Marpha village. One can taste local apple made brandy at Marpha.

Day 09: Trek from Marpha to Kagbeni (2,800m/9,184ft).

We begin the walk of Kagbeni after having breakfast at a tea house lodge at Marpha. We walk following ascends trail and cross the low ridge of Jomsom valley. We pass Panga Khola to reach small settlements, Ekle Bhatti. Afternoon it is very windy so we walk as fast as towards Kali Gandaki river bed to reach Eklee Bhatti village. We stop here for rest and have lunch then start trek towards Kagbeni. After a few hours' walk, we reach Kagbeni which lies just the bank of two rivers and also the old Trans-Himalayan salt trade route of Tibet and the Upper Mustang area.

Day 10: Trek from Kagbeni to Muktinath (3,795m/12,447ft).

Have breakfast at teahouse then start trek towards permit check post. After the permit procedure we walk towards Kali Gandaki river bank following ascends trail. We walk to the Khingar (3,200m) and then climb up through desert landscapes until Jharkot village. We again climb to reach the holy place Muktinath. At evening, we explore around the temple surrounding to know massive history and cultural importance of holistic temple Muktinath.

Day 11: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,730m/8,954ft).

Breakfast at teahouse then we visit famous pilgrimage for both Hindus and Buddhists Muktinath temple, Vishnu temple and Gompa. After that, we follow descends trail of Jharkot. After there we follow a continuous motor road all the way to Jomsom, thus it is also an option to have a jeep drive from Muktinath to Jomsom. At the evening explore around Jomsom Bazaar and enjoy the celebration on the occasion of complete Lower Mustang Trekking with AMN Trekking and Climbing Team. .

Day 12: Fly to Pokhara. Sightseeing, boating or free for any other personal activities.

We take a morning flight to Pokhara from Jomsom. Once we reach at the beautiful lake city Pokhara, a full day feel free to have personal activities, know the surroundings, rest and relaxation, boating at Fewa Lake, etc

Day 13: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive/fly to Kathmandu. Remaining time is to feel free for leisure and personal activities such as Shopping, markets explore, spa, massage, rest and relax can be an option. In the evening, we will have a farewell dinner together with an entire team of Adventure Mountain Nepal.

Day 14: Farewell, departure transfers to Tribhuvan International Airport as per flight schedule.

Our airport arrival and departure representative will drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport on your scheduled flight. Fly to your home with a wonderful memory of Nepal.

 

Remember:

Our travel planner can customize the itinerary outline as per your duration of stay, purpose of holiday and your preference. Cost of the package also depends upon level of service (deluxe, standard & budget) and as per the group size. You can easily CONTACT US at any time for any queries.

Cost & Dates

Inclusions:

  • Required numbers of time Airport pick up and drop off as per your flight schedule (international and domestic) and all required transfers in Kathmandu.
  • 3 Night accommodation in the touristic town of Kathmandu in BB Plan (one can choose a budget, standard and deluxe)
  • A day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu by private vehicle (places of interest), highly experienced city tour guide and all the entrance fees of UNESCO heritage sites.
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu transportation (Flight/Private vehicle/Tourist coach – choose as per your budget and interest)
  • 2 Night accommodation in Lakeside Pokhara in BB Plan (one can choose a budget, standard and deluxe)
  • Pokhara to Ghandruk and Nayapul to Pokhara drive by private vehicle
  • Standard tea house (lodge) accommodation during the entire trekking as per mentioned in the itinerary
  • Three meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the entire trek as per mentioned in the itinerary followed by 3 times tea/coffee per day. One can choose the meal from the menu there.
  • A duffel bag, Trekking Map and trekking pole
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) fee
  • TIMS (Trekker’s Information Manual System) permit
  • An experienced government certified local Trekking Guide
  • Required numbers of highly experienced trekking porters (2:1 ratio)
  • Staff’s food, salary, insurance, accommodation, meals, transportation, etc
  • General first Aid Kit
  • A certificate of appreciation (experience certificate) after completing the Trek
  • Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program.
  • All government taxes and applicable paperwork

Exclusions:

  • International Airfare
  • Personal Travel Insurance (essential for high altitude trekking)
  • Lunch in Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses (bar, laundry, personal shopping, internet usages during the trek, hot shower during the trek, battery charge during the trek etc.)
  • Alcoholic beverage
  • TIPS for Staff


Tour Map

Additional Information

Is It difficult to trek Lower Mustang ?

Lower Mustang Trek is a strenuous level of trekking route. Although There are numerous challenges like the rugged terrain, steep slopes, trekking route through stone stairs and continuous walking of 5 to 6 hours per day. That being said Lower Mustang Trek can be undertaken by travelers who have the right attitude and are physically fit .

Which is the prime time for Lower Mustang Trek ?

The prime time for trekking Lower Mustang is during Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (October and November). During these seasons the weather will be clear, you will get long sunlight hours, fewer bugs, flowers will bloom on the way, the charm of the atmosphere can be felt by the heart, magnificent views of the Himalayas can be seen and you can escape the crowd and enjoy the pleasure of trekking.

What are the permits required for Lower Mustang Trek ?

We only need one permit to trek to Lower Mustang Trek that is:

  • Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – US$ 500 per person for minimum 10 days and extra 50$ cost per day

Do I need to have Travel Insurance during Trek ?

Yes!! It is recommended to have travel insurance during the trek. It is uncertain that you will not feel sick or get into any accidents during the trek. So, for medical emergencies and as precaution against risks and financial losses that could happen while traveling, insurance is best.

Should I manage the equipment/accessories for trekking by myself ?

All the equipment/accessories required for trekking will be arranged for you. You will have to pay the amount for equipment. If you personally want to manage any equipment by yourself it’s fine. We have created The Ultimate Trekking Checklist page for your help as It is always better to carry the essential gears and accessories.

Who are my Guides ?

Qualified, well experienced, knowledgeable and reliable trekking leaders who have been working in this field professionally for more than a decade will guide you toward the destination and back. You are in safe hands with us, so don’t worry about trekking guides.

What if I cancel the trip , do I get my refund ?

Adventure Mountain Trek offers you a lifetime policy through which you can renew your booking amount for another trek although if you want to cancel it then we will refund you as per our trip cancellation terms procedure.

Are your staff equipped/trained & insured ?

We hire our staffs according to their standards. They should have to go through our selection procedure on which we will check their certifications, qualifications and experience. Hence, Our staff are equipped/trained and insured.

What is the Accommodation Like ?

Due to the advancement of the trekking industry, we can find enough lodges and tea houses throughout Annapurna Region trekking routes. They offer good food and accommodation. There are different options you can choose according to your needs and budget.

Is the Internet accessible during Lower Mustang Trek ?

Yes!! The Internet is accessible during the Lower Mustang Trek. You can access the 3G network on mobile phones. The mobile internet is fast enough to browse and even make video calls. You will get continuous signal during the whole trek but there will be certain dark spots along the trek where connection may drop. There are limited WiFi hotspots during the trek which will charge for usage only some will let you use it for free. So, for internet access we recommend you to buy a SIM and use 3G.

What about altitude Sickness ?

Normally, Within 12-24 hours after ascending a certain height(1,500 to 2,500 meter above sea level) altitude sickness symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, sleep problems, loss of energy, and shortness of breath are seen. In case of any altitude sickness symptoms we will apply medication and descend immediately for acclimatization.

How to select a local agency for trekking ?

Trekking via the local agency is one of the great ideas for trekkers. There are more local trekking organizations in Nepal. The hard part is you need to recognize whether they are authorized businesses and are members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN).You can view their internet site and profiles commonly all legal organizations will upload their profile along with authorities-legal certificates.

Can I charge my mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek ?

Yes!! You can charge mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek. At most of the places you will get to charge for free but at some places you have to pay some amount to charge. Remember that It is always better to bring your power bank with you which will be helpful.

How long will it take to trek to Lower Mustang Trek ?

According to the standard itinerary our Upper Mustang trek is of 14 days from your arrival to Kathmandu to farewell at Airport. Normally on the 10th day of trek we will reach the Muktinath which is at the altitude of (3,795m/12,447ft) from sea level, highest altitude you will be during the trek and descend back. If you wish to amend the itinerary you have to contact our booking manager he will prepare the itinerary according to your needs.

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