How to Plan Your Upper Mustang Trek

If you’re looking to explore the remote and untouched parts of the Himalayas, then Upper Mustang Trek is the perfect opportunity. The region is known for its unique traditions and cultural heritage, which is evident in the preserved monasteries, cave dwellings, and ancient fortresses. With the help of experienced guides and crew members, you can make the best of your trek and enhance your experience. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the necessary information including itinerary, what’s included, and how to book the tour to ensure you have an unforgettable experience.

Overview

The Upper Mustang Trek is a 15-day package offered by Viator. You’ll explore the hidden Kingdom of Mustang, which was once a part of Tibet, the last forbidden kingdom within Nepal, and is one of the restricted areas in Nepal. The trek starts from Kathmandu, where you’ll fly to Pokhara (825 meters) and then relocates to Jomsom – Muktinath Trek Trailhead (2,800m). From there, the trek will take you to Upper Mustang Valley (3,840m), where you’ll spend the majority of your time exploring the region. You’ll pass through ancient caves, monasteries, and fortresses like the Tiri, Lo Gekar, and Yara fortresses.

What’s Included

The Upper Mustang Trek package includes:

• Airport pick up & drop off
• 1 night at 3-star and 1 night at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu (with an upgrade option)
• English speaking government licensed trekking guide
• Necessary permits and entry fees to restricted areas
• Full board meals during the trek
• Twin sharing accommodation during the trek
• Ground transportation
• First Aid Kit & Rescue arrangements

What’s not included:

• International airfare to and from your home country
• Nepal visa (USD 25 for 15 days and USD 40 for 30 days; two passport photographs required)
• Alcoholic beverages, cold drinks, boiled water, snacks, desserts, etc., during the trek
• Tips for crew members (on a voluntary basis)

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point:

• Tribhuvan International Airport
• Ring Rd काठमाडौँ 44600 Nepal

Start time: 07:15 AM

Pickup details:

We, IHSA, provide pickup and drop-off service based on your flight schedule. When you book the trip with us, we’ll collect a copy of your flight ticket and arrange for transportation according to your flight schedule. However, sometimes flights get delayed due to technical problems, and at those times, travelers should provide new schedule information to the company.

What to Expect

As this is a restricted trekking destination, you’ll need to have a special permit to visit Upper Mustang. The trek will take you to remote regions, and the terrain can be challenging at times. There are steep ascents and descents, and rocky terrain. You’ll be trekking for 5-6 hours a day through arid landscapes with limited vegetation.

The weather will change throughout the trek, and you’ll need to be prepared for cold weather. You can expect clear and bright skies during the daytime, while it can get chilly at night. It’s recommended to bring warm and breathable clothing, a windproof and waterproof jacket, comfortable trekking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.

Additional Info

Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. A minimum of two people is required to operate this tour.

How to Book the Tour

To book this tour, visit the Viator website at book the tour here. Follow the instructions, make your payment, and wait for the confirmation email.

Conclusion

The Upper Mustang Trek is a unique experience that shouldn’t be missed if you’re an avid trekker looking to explore remote regions of the Himalayas. With this guide, you now have all the necessary information to plan your adventure, including itinerary, what’s included, what to expect, and how to book the tour. Remember to prepare appropriately, stay hydrated and take care of yourself, so you have an unforgettable journey.

An Insider’s Guide to Upper Mustang Trek

If you’re planning a trip to Upper Mustang, get ready to experience a world of absolute wilderness, breathtaking landscapes, and a unique cultural insight into the lives of the local people. Here’s an insider’s guide to Upper Mustang Trek to give you a better idea of what to expect and make the most of your trip.

Local Attractions: Off the Beaten Path

While Upper Mustang has its fair share of popular tourist spots, there are some hidden gems that only the locals know about. One of them is the Phu Village, located on the way to the famous Thorong La Pass. The village is set amidst the cliffs, and the rugged terrains create a surreal vibe around the area. A visit to this village is sure to transport you to a different world altogether. Another off-beat site is the ruins of the former kings’ palace in Lo Manthang. With the lower parts of the structure having withered away, the upper part still stands strong and is a sight to behold.

Dining Spots: Unleashing the Taste of Local Cuisine

While on your trek, you must taste the local cuisine to get a feel of the real Upper Mustang. The town of Jomsom is famous for its apple orchards, so the local apple pies are a must-try during your visit. Another local favorite is Thukpa, a soup with noodles, vegetables, and meat. Don’t forget to try the iconic momos, a Tibetan-style dumpling filled with vegetables or meat. And while on the trek, you’ll come across various small eateries that serve local dishes for you to experiment with.

Cultural Experiences: Insights into Local Life

Upper Mustang is known for preserving its ancient traditions and culture. During the trek, you’ll come across monasteries and chortens dotted around the landscape. The Tiji Festival is an unparalleled experience—a three-day annual event held in Lo Manthang, known to depict the victory of good over evil. You’ll get to witness the mystical dance that narrates the story of the victory of Lord Buddha’s incarnation. Another unique cultural experience is the opportunity to explore the cave sites around the area. You’ll be in awe of how ancient the structures are and how beautifully they still hold up.

Local History: Fascinating Tales from the Past

The history of Upper Mustang is richly diverse and spans centuries. The town of Kagbeni was once on the caravan route between Nepal and Tibet, facilitating tremendous trade in salt and wool across the land. Lo Manthang was once an independent kingdom until it lost its sovereignty in the 1950s when Nepal became a sovereign nation. Exploring these places and learning about their history adds a different perspective to your visit.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: A Unique Experience

Apart from the well-trodden tourist tracks, there are plenty of unique experiences to be had in Upper Mustang. One of them is the Sky Cave Hike, where you’ll hike to the top of a hill, and the locals will navigate you into a cave. This cave is believed to be an escape route excavated during the 8th century. This hike is an off-beat way of experiencing Upper Mustang, which makes it an unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, Upper Mustang is more than just a trek; it is an experience you’ll treasure for a lifetime. The unique terrain, the culture, and the historical significance make this a truly remarkable destination. I hope this insider’s guide to Upper Mustang Trek helped you plan your adventure in the right way. Happy Trekking!