Upper Mustang is an ideal destination for trekkers seeking to escape from the bustle of Kathmandu. This remote trans-Himalayan arid landscape is a land of rich history, culture and stunning mountain views.
Explore the walled capital Lo Manthang, imposing monasteries and palaces that once dominated trade routes from India to Tibet. You’ll also see yak butter Tibetan tea and nomadic tents still clinging to the wild hillsides.
Best Time to Trek
The best time to trek with Upper Mustang Trek is from mid-March to mid-November, when the weather is dry and stable. It is also the ideal time to see the beautiful landscapes covered with blooming wildflowers and colorful trees.
The summer season is also a good time to visit this region. It is a great time to see the spectacular views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tilicho, and Annapurna.
In summer, it is best to avoid the lower regions as they are likely to experience rains, landslides, and mudslides. The upper areas of the region do not get much rainfall because they are in the rain shadow.
Spring is another popular trekking season for the area as it is warm and sunny. It is also the time to enjoy the Tiji Festival, a three-day religious event held in Lo Manthang.
Permits
The Upper Mustang trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that offers stunning scenery and authentic Tibetan culture. It borders the popular Annapurna region, but its dramatic semi-arid desert landscape is a world away from that of other trekking regions in Nepal.
As a restricted area, a permit is required for trekking in the Upper Mustang Valley. The permit costs US$ 500 for the first 10 days and $50 per day thereafter.
To obtain the permit, you need to show your original passport, Nepal visa and passport size photo at the immigration office of the government in Kathmandu or Pokhara. A registered local trekking agency will also assist you with obtaining the permit.
For single trekkers, it is possible to find another traveler in Nepal who has a valid passport and who is willing to go with you on the trek, so you can share the permits. It sounds dubious, but it works on a regular basis.
Trekking Package
Upper Mustang Trek is one of the most spectacular trekking experiences in Nepal. The region is a perfect blend of natural beauty and fascinating culture and history.
The trek is a moderately challenging experience that requires proper packing and preparation. It is a great option for beginners and those who want to try high-altitude trekking.
It is a great opportunity to visit a place untouched by modernization and away from the crowds. This trek will satisfy your hunger for adventure, freedom, and curiosity.
You can also explore Muktinath, the important pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. The trekking package includes a scenic flight to Jomsom and a drive back to Pokhara.
The route of Upper Mustang Trek is incredibly beautiful, with the landscapes reminiscent of Tibet. You will encounter thousands of year old caves, medieval villages, arid valleys and many more interesting sights.
Cost
The cost of Upper Mustang Trek and Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek depends on a number of factors. Some of these include food and accommodation during the trek, transport from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the cost of trekking guide, porter wages and the special restricted Mustang permit fare and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit fee (ACAP).
Upper Mustang is a Buddhist kingdom and is one of the least crowded places in Nepal, making it a great destination for travelers looking for a unique cultural experience. It also offers a beautiful desert landscape with colorful rock formations and deep canyons.
Aside from its awe-inspiring natural beauty, the region is home to several ancient Buddhist monasteries and caves. These monasteries contain intricate wall paintings and artifacts, which offer insight into the region’s religious and cultural history.
The Upper Mustang trek is a challenging hike that requires a good level of fitness and endurance. It also includes long days of walking, often on rocky or rugged terrain, with steep ascents and descents.
