Upper Mustang Trek

This Trek is all about exploring the hidden world of the ancient preserved Buddhist kingdom of Mustang.

Trip Code
AMT - TREK - 205
Best Season

Spring

Trip Grade

⭐⭐⭐

Max Altitude

Luri Gompa (3,850m/12,628ft)

Accomodation

Teahouses/Lodges

Transportation

Flight/Jeep or Bus

Meals

BB/Full Board

Group Size

Any

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Introduction

The privilege to trek towards the world's most preserved area with a thrilling experience is a wonderful experience to hold once in a time. Upper Mustang region Known as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom" is now opened since 1992 for trekkers with special authority to which a permit approved by Nepal Government is given; after all the preservation of hidden arts, cultures, and primitive lifestyle of Himalaya people resides within this territory.

Upper Mustang Trek Overview

Firstly, Take a flight from Pokhara to Jomsom where the Upper Mustang Trek starts making it away from the unique place named "Kagbeni".Crossing the Kali Gandaki bridges and some other small rivers, Kagbeni presents a number of time-honored villages and monasteries such as- the ancient Red monastery including the traditional musical instruments. From the view of hills, sheep raring, rolling the prayer temple, making steps forward, and passing through the prayers flags along with the breeze of Himalaya we can see number of small settlements.
The cluster of settlements in Chele, Ghilling, and Charang are some of the amazing balls of this region that make the visitors sense the ancient Buddhist culture, lifestyle, cuisine, housing pattern, and many more. The way now ahead towards the capital of the former kingdom, "Lo Manthang" were numerous of significant things many centuries ago such as-the home of the last king of Mustang, palace and monasteries of Jampalakhang from the 15th century, the monastery of Choede Lakhang from 18th century and many gompas and monasteries existing for thousands of years. Upper Mustang is a land rain shadow with limited greenery of Himalayas hence trekking is possible on monsoon too.

The man-made caves at Lo-Manthang at the higher cliffs seem to be a hidden story being hypothesized by many local people which can be true and lefts everyone wonder-struck. From Lo-Manthang with a spectacular picturesque of Upper Mustang to have the perfect taste of trekking to a wondrous land making a match up to extreme joy. The never-ending beauty of the Upper Mustang gives an adventure that we can experience once in a lifetime. Capture it from every corner.

Trip Features:

  • Upper Mustang Trek is the trekking toward the world's last preserved area that makes every person feel like the fortune of traveling back to the time of Buddhist land.
  • Upper Mustang residing behind mount Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, has captured most of the significant architecture and adopted the same kind of culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the anciet Tibetan community till date (a most preserved region in the world); which is one of the best places to trek in Nepal that takes into the real Tibetan environment.
  • The highest point to run every step towards the wilderness of Upper Mustang is around 4,000 meters above sea level. The adventure of steep landscapes with a windy atmosphere, exploring the flora and fauna where mules carry loads along the way. The people of Upper mustang  having practice a peculiar food habit.
  • Exploring the Himalaya's beauty more closely are some of the fascinating things that travelers get to encounter with.
  • The traveler gets an opportunity to understand the divergent culture of upper mustang practiced since classical times. Grab a chance to explore Amgyal Gompa, Tingkhar, King’s palace, amchi (traditional Tibetan doctor) museum and school; and many Gompas and monasteries presenting significant values.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel.

After you reach at the Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative would pick you at the airport’s entry gate and thereby, transfer you to the nearby hotel. In case of persisting time, you may visit the Kathmandu city or rest in your hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel or Resort as per your request.
Meal includes: Breakfast. In general 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.

Today we will be visiting the world heritages sites in Kathmandu and explore its rich cultural history

Day 03: Drive or Fly to Pokhara.

Once you explore the historical valley of Kathmandu, you will get opportunity to move towards a popular tourist destination named Pokhara and explore pokhara. If you want a drive then, you would be able to view Trishuli River across your way and during early afternoon hour, you would be able to visit Pokhara.

Day 04: Fly to Jomsom (2,800m) and trek to Kagbeni (2,810m/9219.16ft) (20min fly and 3-4 hrs walk).

Trekkers should wake up as early as possible to take a flight of about 35 minutes to reach at Jomsom. During this time, you will be able to view few of the amazing naturistic views from the window of your airplane. Once you land in Jomsom, you will move ahead for your trek towards Kagbeni. By walking for about 3 to 4 hours, you will be able to reach at Kagbeni before sunset. In this way, you would end up with ample time for strolling across the entire village.

Day 05: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,080m/10104ft) (5-6 hrs walk).

By passing from few rivers on a series comprised of various small ridges, trekkers would be able to move ahead towards Chele. During the complete trip, individuals will get the opportunity to find many white, red and black Chortens recognized as hallmarks of the popular upper Mustang region.

Day 06: Trek from Chele to Ghiling (3,570m/11712ft) (7-8 hrs walk).

Trekking from Chele towards Geling would continue during the morning time by hiking on various undulated mountain trails. Finally, on this day, you will be able to visit a small village of the district, where you find painted buildings in red color, which symbolizes the region’s famous monasteries.

Day 07: Trek from Ghiling to Dhakmar (3,820m/12,529ft).

We will continue with our trek from Geling to reach Dhakmar. Here, you will find an oldest Tibet monastery named Lo Gekar Monastery built during the eighth century by a worldwide famous magician of Tibet named Guru Rinpoche

Day 08: Trek from Dhakmar to Lo Manthang (3,730m/12237ft) (4-5 hrs walk).

On our 8th day of trekking, our trail will broaden and let us get the first view of Lo Manthang, known popularly as the walled city. Since the city has a single entrance, we have to circumambulate the wall towards the gate present on its northeastern corner. We will start with our return journey via the upper highland route and again get dramatic views of the Charang Valley and Lo Manthang, along with snow cladding peaks in the background. Just before our settlement at Ko Gear, we will reach the Mustang’s oldest monastery named Ghare Gompa and finally have an overnight stay at Lo-Manthang.

Day 09 & 10: Explore the Mustang Kingdom Lo Manthang.

Our trail will broad and let us to get the first view of Lo Manthang, known popularly as the walled city. Since the city has a single entrance, we have to circumambulate the wall towards the gate present on its northeastern corner. We will start with our return journey via the upper highland route and again get dramatic views of the Charang Valley and Lo Manthang, along with snow cladding peaks in the background. Just before our settlement at Ko Gear, we will reach the Mustang’s oldest monastery named Ghare Gompa and finally have an overnight stay at Lo-Manthang.

Day 11: Trek from Lo–Manthang to Yara Gaon (3,530m/11,578ft) via Lo La Pass (3,950m/12,956ft).

We will move to Yara Gaon by starting from the Lo-Manthang region by passing through the famous Lo La Pass.

Day 12: Excursion hike to Luri Gompa (3,850m/12,628ft) and back to Yara.

Today we have an excursion hike to the 12th cave monastery of Nepal i.e. Luri Gompa and then, we return to Yara Gaon..

Day 13: Trek from Yara to Tange (3,240ft/10,627ft)(4-5 hrs walk).

Today, we will take to reach Tange by walking for about 4 to 5 hours. During our walk, we can get continuous views of mountains.

Day 14: Trek from Tange to Chhusang (3,050m/10,004ft) ( 9-10 hrs walk).

We will trek via deep ridges and landscapes to hit the entire valley of Kali Gandaki and finally reaches to a high altitude village named Chhusang..

Day 15: Trek from Chhusang to Jomsom (2,730m/8,954ft) (8-9 hrs walk).

Today, we will take to reach Tanggye by walking for about 4 to 5 hours. During our walk, we can get continuous views of mountains.

Day 16: Fly to Pokhara. Sightseeing, boating or free for any other personal activities.

We will wind up our trekking tour by taking a local flight to Pokhara. Here, you may participate in different activities, boating, sightseeing and other personal activities.

Day 17:Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Now, we will drive back from Pokhara to reach at the capital city Kathmandu.

Day 18: Spare day. Free for personal activities or additional activities on request.

Here, you will again get a spare day to view the beauties of Kathmandu City and be the part of shopping and various personal activities. In the evening, join with our dinner program with authentic Nepali cultural program..

Day 19: Farewell, departure transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport.

Our team will depart you to the Tribhuvan International Airport, from where you will get the flight as per your own chosen schedule.

 

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). All required transfers in Kathmandu too.
  • Land transportation by preferred vehicle.
  • 4 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.
  • 2 Night accommodation in Lakeside Pokhara in BB Plan (one can choose a budget, standard and deluxe)
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara transportation (Flight/Private vehicle/Tourist coach – choose as per your budget and interest)
  • Pokhara to Jomsom(trek starting point) Flight
  • 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
  • Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket, Nepali SIM card (Rental basis, if needed)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) fee
  • TIMS (Trekker’s Information Manual System) permit
  • Upper mustang restricted area permit (Special 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 usage 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 Upper Mustang ?

Upper 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 Upper Mustang Trek can be undertaken by travelers who have the right attitude and are physically fit .

Which is the prime time for Upper Mustang Trek ?

The prime time for trekking Upper 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 Upper Mustang Trek ?

We only need one permit to trek to Upper 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 Upper Mustang Trek ?

Yes!! The Internet is accessible during the Upper 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 Upper Mustang Trek ?

According to the standard itinerary our Upper Mustang trek is of 19 days from your arrival to Kathmandu to farewell at Airport. Normally on the 12th day of trek we will reach the Luri Gompa which is at the altitude of (3,850m/12,628ft) 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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