Things to know before going to Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang Trek is one of the most popular and restricted area trips in Nepal that takes you to the Himalayas' rain shadow old Buddhist kingdom called  "Lo".

Nepal's one of the most extraordinary treks, Upper Mustang is known for its dramatic desert landscapes, ancient Buddhist culture, and the historic city protected by the ancient walls of Lo Manthang. It is often referred to as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom". Upper Mustang provides a rare opportunity to step into a world where centuries-old traditions, cave monasteries, and colorful cliff formations continue to dictate daily life. Upper Mustang is shielded from the outside influence of the modern world, tucked away behind the Himalayan rain shadow, and offers a unique combination of adventure, culture, and unspoiled scenery that makes the Upper Mustang trek apart from any other in Nepal.

History of Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang, the capital of "Lo" Mustang, a historic forbidden kingdom of the Himalayas, was "Lo-Manthang," one of the most stunning Himalayan deserts on earth. It is bordered by Tibet, beyond the Annapurna Mountain, and is home to the affluent Buddhist kingdom, the enchanted great canyons, and century-old sky caves and monasteries.

As one of the world's most preserved areas, the Upper Mustang was a confined monarchy up until 1992, and the bulk of its inhabitants still speak ancient Tibetic languages. Because of the area's relative solitude from the outside world, Tibetan culture has been preserved. Mustang's three mainstays of life are tourism, livestock husbandry, and commerce.

The northern two-thirds of the Mustang District in Nepal's Gandaki Province make up the Upper Mustang. The three rural municipalities that make up this region are Lo Manthang, Salome, and Baragung Muktichhetra. Lower Mustang, the district's southernmost part, is known as Thak and is the home of the Thakali, a people who speak that language and have a culture that incorporates Tibetan and Nepalese features.

Reasons to do the Upper Mustang Trek

• Amazing views of Mt. Annapurna (8,091), Thorung Peak, Nilgiri (7,061m), Chulu West, Chulu East, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV can be seen at Jomsom (2,720m/ 8,915ft), the administrative center of the Mustang District.
• Rich Tibetan-Buddhist Culture: Upper Mustang has kept a significant portion of its Tibetan culture and tradition because of its lengthy history and secluded location. Many Buddhist temples, Chortens, and monasteries that illustrate the region's unaltered Tibetan-Buddhist beliefs may be found throughout your trip.
• You may customize your experience and itinerary however you see fit. Ideally, the Upper Mustang trek itinerary lasts roughly 2 weeks or 14 days. You may walk the entire trek to Lo Manthang if you have extra time.
• For those who are feeling particularly daring, you can also hire a Jeep for a tour of the upper Mustang or a motorcycle to ride to the walled city of Lo Manthang.
• Despite its remoteness, Upper Mustang has been inhabited since the 13th century, and there are several old monasteries and cave paintings there. Recently, at least twelve caves with Buddhist artwork perched on cliffs more than 14,000 feet high were found in Upper Mustang.
• The 13th-century paintings feature Tibetan characters, gold, silver, and pieces of pre-Christian pottery.
• Upper Mustang is home to the elusive snow leopard and the abundant musk deer, rare plants, and animals. This area is particularly well-known for its Himalayan alpine landscape, with various medicinal plant species that people frequently utilize for different uses, including medicine and incense.

Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek

The weather is the deciding factor in selecting whether to trek to Upper Mustang or not. Although people go to Upper Mustang all year long, there are particular seasons when the journey is more straightforward and pleasurable.

Autumn (September, October, and November)

• One of the best and most ideal seasons
• Clear sky with beautiful mountain view
• Daytime temperature: 12°C to 20°C
• Night temperatures: –8°C to –4°C
• Some afternoon winds may be strong
• High trekking traffic due to perfect weather

Spring (March, April, and May)

• Popular among mountain lovers and adventure seekers
• Warm daytime temperatures: 16°C to 22°C
• Nights can drop below 0°C
• Stable weather and excellent visibility
• Great season for cultural exploration and photography

Monsoon (June to August)

• Despite being monsoon season in Nepal, Upper Mustang receives very little rain
• Ideal time to trek compared to other wet regions
• Summer temperatures range: 16°C to 25°C
• In August, locals celebrate a traditional horse festival during the full moon
• Clear landscapes and vibrant cultural atmosphere

Winter (December, January, and February)

• Extremely cold with snow-covered trails
• Many locals leave Upper Mustang to escape harsh weather
• Lodges and tea houses remain closed
• Trekking becomes nearly impossible due to heavy snowfall
• By late November, the trekking season effectively ends

Permits for Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang Trek lies in a restricted trekking area of Nepal; every trekker needs two kinds of permits:

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
• Restricted Area Permit

The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) costs USD 30 per person for a single entry into the Annapurna region. For the Restricted Area Permit, each participant must pay USD 50 per day for the duration of their stay in Upper Mustang. The Restricted Area Permit (RAP), which offers information on the trekker and his or her destination in case of an emergency or difficulty, suffices for the Upper Mustang Trek and is not required.

Upper Mustang Trek requires a minimum of two people to get the permit. If you want to private trek at your own pace and interest, we provide private guides and porter services. Contact us at +977-9849615880

Best trekking agency for Upper Mustang Trek (Bold Himalaya)

Bold Himalaya differs a little from other groups. All of our packages and adventure trips are guaranteed to depart on time, barring unforeseen circumstances such as epidemics, pandemics, political unrest, natural disasters, governmental restrictions, and similar events.

We are undoubtedly the best in hiking and climbing in the Himalayas; there is no denying it. For singles, couples, families, and people of all ages, we provide customized vacation packages. With us, you may choose and act completely independently.

Our specialists can create an interesting and unforgettable vacation that is tailored to your unique interests and needs since they have traveled widely and have a thorough understanding of the region.

We're here for you whenever you need us. We have staff around the clock to respond to your inquiry and tailor our response to your specific preferences, needs, budget, and travel plans.

Why is the region of Upper Mustang Restricted?

It has an open border with China's Tibet region, and Nepali government regulations require a special permit for a restricted area. Reducing illicit activity on the international fence between two nations and border security are the leading causes.

One of the largest concentrations of cliff caves constructed by humans may be found in Mustang; these expansive structures have never been thoroughly explored. Accessing many shelters and locations is hard because they are perched so high on unstable rock. Some of them have been turned into monasteries.

Ancient houses with murals on the deteriorating walls dating back thousands of years were discovered in a sizable portion of the cave. These chambers were created by highly talented ancient architects who formerly resided in the caverns for security and as a secure place to dwell. People think that the caverns were created by their ancestors as places of devotion and that they are holy. According to Tibetan Buddhism, Padama Shambhava and Guru Rinpoche, who founded monasteries nearby, were the religious figures who discovered all of these. This location is restricted due to these factors.

Upper Mustang Trek Route Itinerary (Details Itinerary)

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

• Maximum Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft

A representative of Bold Himalayas will meet us when we arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and drive us to our accommodation. Then we check in at the hotel, get ready, and rest. Bold Himalayas will offer a welcome supper in the evening and spend the night in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

We visit the world heritage sites of Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Bouddhanath Stupa. The Durbar Square provides insight into ancient royalty. One of the most significant locations of pilgrimage for all Hindus is the Pashupatinath Temple. The Boudhanath Stupa, one of the biggest stupas in the world, is located in Swayambhunath, popularly referred to as the Monkey Temple. Then we spend the night in Kathmandu.

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

• Driving: 5-6 hrs
• Maximum Altitude: 827m/2,713ft

After breakfast, we depart for Pokhara, which is also known as the Lake City due to the abundance of lakes there. The Himalayas, including Dhaulagiri (8,167m/26,794ft), Manaslu (8,156m/26,759ft), Machhapuchhre (6,993m/22,943ft), the five peaks of Annapurna, and others, are magnificently visible from Pokhara. After that, we check into our hotel and rest. We take pleasure in sailing on Fewa Lake and exploring the charming city streets, and spend a night in Pokhara.

Day 04: Fly to Jomsom and trek to Kagbeni

• Flight: 20 min
• Hiking: 3-4 hrs
• Maximum Altitude: 2,810m/9,220ft

We'll fly to Jomsom, known for its apples, ferocious winds, and stunning scenery, this morning. On an open path next to a stunning valley, we set out on our journey. Before arriving in Jomsom, which is perfectly situated on the banks of two rivers, we travel through the village of Eaklibatti. The hamlet is lovely, with flat-roofed homes and the remains of a former fort. Then we sleep in Kagbeni.

Day 05: Kagbeni to Chele

• Hiking: 5-6 hrs
• Maximum Altitude: 3,050m/10,007ft

After having our permits checked, we set off on our journey along a path that follows the Kali Gandaki River. We travel on sand while being buffeted by strong gusts before climbing a hill. When we finally arrive at Tangbe Village, we take in its winding lanes, white-washed homes, barley and buckwheat fields, and apple orchards. We keep walking, passing another settlement and across a river. Before arriving at Chele Village, we next proceed up a ridge. We rest for the night in Chele.

Day 06: Chele to Syanbochen

• Hiking: 6-7 hrs
• Maximum Altitude: 3,475m/11,401ft

Compared to what we have already experienced, our walk today will be a little more difficult. Two passes must be traversed during today's walk: Taklam La pass (3,624 m) and Dajori La pass (3,735 m). On the way, we pass Ramchung Cave and have fantastic views of Tilicho, Yakawa Kang, and Damodar Danda. We continue to descend till we get to Samar Village. From here, we proceed up a route above the settlement until we come to a ridge. After there, we make a hard route descent to a brook before continuing to Syanboche. Then, spend the night at Syanbochen.

Day 07: Syanbochen to Ghami

• Hiking: 5-6 hrs
• Maximum Altitude: 3,520m/11,549ft

At 3,850 meters, we rise to the Yamda La pass. We pass a few teahouses, chortens, and lovely villages on the route. At 4,010 meters, Nyi Pass is reached after a hike through poplar woodlands and barley fields. We next make our way down to Ghami, one of the largest communities in the Lo area. The community is lovely, with meadows around the whole thing. And we spend the night at Ghami.

Day 08: Ghami to Tsarang

• Hiking: 5-6 hrs
• Maximum Altitude: 3,870m/12,697ft

Today's journey begins with a descent along a rocky and often slick path. Then we start rising after crossing a suspension bridge across the Ghami Khola. Beautiful mani walls along the walkway along the pathway. We then arrive in Tsarang settlement after traversing the 3870m Tsarang La Pass. The town is perched atop the Charang Chu canyon, and to the east are a massive fortification and a crimson gompa. Tsarang, spend the night.

Day 09: Tsarang to Lo-Manthang

• Hiking: 3-4 hrs
• Maximum Altitude: 3,730m/12,238ft

Before starting our ascent to Lo La pass, which is at 3950m, we drop into a canyon and cross a river. We can see the lovely Lo Manthang settlement from the top of the pass. From the pass, we descend to the lovely walled town of Lo Manthang. The views of the Himalayas, including the Nilgiri, Tilicho, and Annapurna I mountains, Bhrikuti Peak, and Damodar Kunda (pond), are particularly good from this location. Then, we rest for the night in Lo-Manthang.

Day 10: Explore Lo Manthang/ Acclimatization

A walled settlement in Nepal's remote Upper Mustang area is called Lo Manthang. We spend the day visiting Jhampa, Thupchen, and Chhoeda, three of the town's most significant gompas. Over the past two decades, all of these gompas have received professional restoration. We may also hike to the lovely village of Tingkhar, which is situated northwest of Lo-Mangthang. After exploring Lo Manthang, we spent the night there.

Day 11: Lo-Mangthang to Drakmar

• Hiking: 6-7 hrs
• Maximum Altitude: 3,810m/12,501ft

When trekking back from Lo-Manthang, we take a different path. The settlement of Gyakar, which has a century-old Ghar Gompa with stunning rock murals, is traversed by our walk. A local proverb states that anyone who makes a wish at the Gompa will have it granted. We tour the Gompa before continuing to Drakmar for the night.

Day 12: Drakmar to Ghiling

• Hiking: 5-6 hrs
• Maximum Altitude: 3,806m/12,487ft

In order to escape high gusts, we set off on our walk early. For most of the journey, we descend. Before reaching Ghiling, our trek travels over a barren plateau and farmland. The stroll could be a little challenging because we'll probably feel the wind on our faces. Although Ghiling is primarily dry, the Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mountains are still visible. In the evening, we can have a tour of the community and spend the night at Ghiling.

Day 13: Ghiling to Chhuksang

• Hiking: 5-6 hrs
• Maximum Altitude: 3,050m/10,007ft

After breakfast, we set off on our hike. We follow the same path that we did when ascending to Lo Manthang. We get to see beautiful vistas of the Himalayas and little villages along the journey to Chhuksang. Spend the night at Chhuksang.

Day 14: Chhuksang to Jomsom

• Hiking: 6-7 hrs
• Maximum Altitude: 2,700m/8,859ft

Our trek's final day is today, and it's a long one. After some time spent hiking, we reach the end of the Mustang paths and begin the Annapurna circuit. We make a lunch halt at Kagbeni. We continue our ascent to Jomsom for an overnight stay after lunch.

Day 15: Fly back to Pokhara

• Flight: 20 mins
• Maximum Altitude: 827m/2,713ft

We fly to Pokhara in the early morning hours. The trip itself is a fantastic experience since the plane travels over a gorge that separates the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains. We may relax for the remainder of the day after we get to Pokhara.

Day 16: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

• Driving: 5-6 hrs
• Maximum Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft

After breakfast, we bid adieu to Pokhara's picturesque northern skyline and go south in the direction of Kathmandu. This tour will follow the banks of a river and provide stunning views of terraced hills and rural Nepalese life. We rest or buy souvenirs after we get to Kathmandu. We will have a farewell dinner in the evening to commemorate the successful conclusion of our journey and spend the night in Kathmandu.

Day 17: Final Departure

Today is the last day of our Nepal Upper Mustang Trek! We'll be taken to the airport by a Bold Himalayas representative around three hours before the flight's planned departure time. We bring fantastic memories of our vacation to Lo Manthang and Nepal with us on the plane back home.

Packing list for Upper Mustang Trek

All journeys to high-altitude areas require reliable, high-quality equipment. You will need some essential items while trekking.

• Dependable, waterproof hiking boots. A solid pair of shoes is essential because you will be on uneven terrain all day. A benefit for your feet is good hiking socks.
• A practical insulating jacket. A decent coat will make all the difference in the cold because heaters won’t be available at the tea shops or on the trails. Only the specific cooking areas' indoor fireplace is expected.
• A sleeping bag with a liner must stay warm on chilly evenings in the higher portions of the walk.
• A decent, sturdy water bottle and sunglasses or a sun hat. Along the trail, discomfort, headaches, and rashes are brought on by dehydration and sunburn, which happen more quickly in the upper parts of the walk.
• Water purifying products or tablets are recommended because there isn’t much drinking water available in the higher parts of the journey to quench your thirst comfortably.

Preparation for Upper Mustang Trek

Physical Preparation:

Preparation for the Upper Mustang trip should include aerobic fitness, altitude training, and strength endurance training. The high altitude of the Upper Mustang cannot be replicated, but aerobic training will teach your body to function properly with less oxygen. Height exercise will also strengthen your muscles to better endure the elevation rise.

The most excellent way to prepare for your journey is trekking. Enjoy taking lengthy hikes. Analyze your body's limitations to see how far you can push it. Start simple, build up your endurance, and progressively improve the difficulty. Eventually, you should be able to walk nonstop for five or six hours.

• Hike or take a long stroll as part of your two-week training schedule.
• Up to 5–6 hours while taking brief breaks.
• When possible, pick a steep, uneven terrain.
• Carry your daypack while progressively adding weight until it reaches 25 pounds.

GYM exercise:

• 30-45 minutes on the treadmill set to the hill setting or at a leisurely speed.
• 10 minutes of machine-assisted stair climbing at 30 to 45 steps per minute.
• Take a breather after five minutes of steady, incline-free walking.
• The length of each period should be increased.
• To assist in building your leg muscles, incorporate three rounds of 20 lunges and 20 squats into your strength-training program.

Mental Preparation

Depending on how comfortable you are outside in isolated alpine places, you will need to prepare psychologically. You will carry a backpack and walk upwards for 5 to 8 hours each day at a high altitude. Be psychologically and emotionally ready for them because if you have too high expectations for your living and sleeping places, you might feel disappointed.

Request information on the routes and general travel experiences: Consult with those who have already completed the walk to ensure your readiness. Befriend your trekking companions as well. To learn more about the routes, visit YouTube and watch various videos.

Jomsom flight and its Facts

Daily, several air companies operate Jomsom flights. Bold Himalaya has established pioneering relationships with airline companies and sells and stocks all tickets. Although weather delays, flights only take around 30 minutes. For the finest views of the mountains, try to sit on the right side of the aircraft.

You want to continue your journey that day if you have an early flight out of Kathmandu, everything goes smoothly, and you intend to travel the remaining distance by land to Jomsom. As the weather is better in the morning, these flight times are ideal. The weather can get windy about midday, which could have an impact on the flight. During the flight, passengers may see the iconic Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna, Himchuli, and Lamjung Himal, which are covered in white snow.

Upper Mustang Trek Difficulty

The trek is regarded as moderately difficult due to the altitude and arid environment. You are struggling to recover your breath as you observe the natives race by you and wonder, "Why?"

Remember that the residents of Upper Mustang are of Tibetan Buddhist ancestry and were accustomed to the air's low oxygen level and dryness because they were raised at a high altitude, just like the Sherpas living in the Khumbu (Everest) Region.

As with other treks in the Nepal Himalayas, there are ups and downs to challenge you. There are high passes to cross and cliffside descents to navigate.

However, the magnificent mountains and the realization that you are in the glorious Kingdom of Lo make up for it. Given that this route is in the rain shadow and has favorable weather, it may be completed virtually all year. Although many residents head to Pokhara or Kathmandu to weather the winter, and the snow is deep, we don't advise doing it then. You can hike this route during the monsoon (June to September) without worrying about rain or muddy routes.

Facilities on Upper Mustang Trek

Food:

Local as well as international dishes, breakfast, lunch & dinner are served in the lodges and guest houses. Commonly consumed basics include Thukpa, Chowmein, Daal Bhat, and quick noodles. Various items such as Toasted bread, egg items, bread and pancakes, pizza, noodles, pasta, and sandwiches served with chips. Momo (dumplings), vegetables and salad, rice meals, and potatoes are available in most regions.

Accommodation:

The region has different types of lodges and tea houses. In each village along the walking trail, there are tea houses or simple hotels that offer lodging options. The majority of the lodges and guesthouses in the Upper Mustang region provide lodging for tourists with basic amenities like a western toilet. Because of the low population density, expensive transportation, and isolation, lodging in Upper Mustang is relatively expensive.

Electricity and Internet:

All hotels and lodges have electricity and Wi-Fi in the lower regions. However, the internet services are slower than in Kathmandu. Most villages along the Upper Mustang trail have solar-powered electricity. You can charge your phone and camera in tea houses, usually for a small fee. It’s recommended to carry a power bank or solar charger for uninterrupted use.

Wi-Fi is often slow and unstable due to the remoteness of the region. Some guesthouses charge a fee for Wi-Fi access, especially in higher and more remote areas. Buying a Nepali SIM card (NTC or Ncell) before the trek helps, but mobile network coverage becomes weak or unavailable as you move deeper into Upper Mustang, especially beyond Kagbeni.

Hot shower, Laundry, and Drinking Water:

Hot showers and laundry are provided in many hotels in the lower region, but you might have to pay extra for them. For drinking water, it is advised to carry water purification tablets, as carrying plastic bottles is not sustainable.

ATMs and Banking:

ATMs are available at the start of the trek. As you move towards higher regions, there are no such facilities. So, it's better to keep some cash in hand. The best practice is to take out all cash in the capital to avoid any problems, as the ATMs might be put out of service along the trekking route.

Expandable trekking routes with Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang covers a wide range of area. So, this trek can also be modified to include other smaller treks. This is usually helpful when there are any unexpected changes in the schedule. The Upper Mustang trek can be extended to include the Lower Mustang Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, and Upper Mustang Tyangbe Tentang Trek.

Major places of the Upper Mustang Trekking Routes

The major places that you can explore in the Upper Mustang Trek are:

Kagbeni: Right at the bottom of Muktinath Valley beside the River Kali Gandaki, Kagbeni is a town that connects the Lower and Upper Mustang. But spiritually, Kagbeni is every bit of a Tibetan village, stuck somewhere in between centuries.

Chungsi Cave: This is one of the most visited Buddhist sites in Mustang, Nepal. Naturally, this cave, also known as Ranchung cave, is located between Samar and Syangbochen hamlet, on the path to your Upper Mustang Trekking route. The Chungsi Cave-Monastery is an ancient structure that was naturally formed among the thousands of man-made sky caves in Mustang. Only a few of the portals that "GURU GINGPOCHE" adorned are visible.

Dhakmar: Dhakmar settlement is located 3820 meters above sea level. Trekking from Lo Manthang to Dhakmar passes through Samduling, Marang La (4230 meters), and Muila (4172 meters), offering breathtaking views of red rocks that sparkle in the sunlight.

Ghar Gumba: The route to Ghar Gumba gives some highly captivating vistas of well-known, enigmatic rock caverns as well as views of the southern walls of snowy giants. There are clusters of Chortens on the hill, where you may spend a memorable evening filled with spiritual well-being.

Chhoser: One of the most magnificent caves in Upper Mustang, Nepal, is the Jhong cave near Chhoser. Archaeologists from all over the world are interested in learning more about the secrets of the sky caves in Nepal. They are highly interested in learning more about the upper Mustang region's mysterious caverns. One of the outstanding instances of cave civilization is Upper Mustang. In the highlands of Upper Mustang, there are several man-made caverns with multiple stories.

Muktinath: A Vishnu temple, Muktinath is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. It is situated in Mustang, Nepal's Muktinath Valley, at the base of the Thorong La mountain pass. It is one of the tallest temples in the entire globe.

Popular Tours in Upper Mustang

Some popular tours in Upper Mustang are:

Upper Mustang Mountain Bike Tour:

The Upper Mustang Mountain Bike Tour is an adventurous journey through one of Nepal’s most mystical and remote Himalayan landscapes. Mountain biking over breathtaking mountain peaks while experiencing authentic mountain culture and the mysterious sensation of being in an old Kingdom. Despite being widely accessible, Upper Mustang, Nepal, has a unique atmosphere.

Adventurous cyclists can explore Upper Mustang on a thrilling mountain biking route. This trip is best suited for people who have a strong sense of adventure and are physically active. The majority of the riding is over 3000 meters, with 16 passes exceeding 3500 meters, and the housing arrangements are warm yet simple.

Upper Mustang Jeep safari:

This off-road adventure takes you through traditional Mustang villages, centuries-old monasteries, chortens, and colorful prayer walls that reflect the region’s deep Buddhist heritage. Upper Mustang Jeep Safari is specifically created for tourists who don't have enough time to explore the area and who also want to avoid spending their vacation strolling about on the dirt. Upper Mustang and Lo Manthang are well-known trekking routes because of their historical attractions, including caves, monasteries, archaeological sites, and the allure of well-kept secrets.

Upper Mustang Bike Tour:

Motorbike tours are gaining in popularity as riders attempt Mustang's off-road tracks and dramatic landscapes. This tour combines adventure with cultural immersion, riding through rural villages, colorful cliffs, and dry riverbeds all the way to Lo Manthang.

Since this is not your average Himalayan adventure, the Upper Mustang motorbike trip will undoubtedly test your riding ability and endurance to the very maximum. In this strange land, you'll have the impression that you're on another planet.

Upper Mustang Helicopter Tour:

Those who have limited time will see a helicopter tour as a quick and breathtaking trip over the top of Upper Mustang. The flight goes over rugged cliffs, sky caves, monasteries, and a high desert plateau until it descends to Lo Manthang. It’s the most luxurious and time-efficient way to experience Mustang’s beauty.

Activity not to miss during Upper Mustang Trek

Visit the monastery and 500-year-old town:

Visit the monastery and 500-year-old town at Kagbeni, which serves as the entrance to the Upper Mustang region. Explore the Muktinath and Kaligandaki River intersections while staying at Kagbeni. Hindus visit this site to make prayers to the gods, asking them to remember their forefathers. Discovering an almost 500-year-old monastery and a historic Kagbeni town are two more intriguing Mustang activities.

Explore amazing wall and sky caves in Chhusang:

A little town called Chusang village is located not far from the Upper Mustang route. The town is bordered on both sides by a sizable cliff that contains several sky caves worth seeing in Nepal. On the way to Chusang, you can see a sizable organic apple orchard as well as other farmland at Tangbe.

See the Nepali Grand Canyon from Chele:

Trekkers must hike 45 minutes upwards from the Sky Caves, crossing a tiny metal bridge over the Kaligandaki River, to reach Chele. There is a spectacular location to view close to the Chaile settlement. It is very comparable to the American Grand Canyon. Take some time to explore it and use your camera to capture its beauty, so you can share a photo of the Nepali Grand Canyon with your relatives and friends.

Upper Mustang Tiji festival trek in the kingdom of Lo:

Many travelers plan their Mustang trip around the colorful three-day Tiji Festival held in Lo Manthang. This special trek combines dramatic desert landscapes with vibrant Buddhist rituals, masked dances, and cultural celebrations. It’s one of the best ways to experience Mustang’s spiritual heritage.

Our Recommendations for Upper Mustang Trek

Follow local rules and regulations during the trek

You must adhere to the set guidelines and limitations while on the tour. It's important to avoid tossing trash wherever you go. Please take into account the surrounding fauna and avoid doing anything that can be damaging to them. Because there are so many different racial and ethnic groups, it's crucial to be mindful of others' feelings. An appropriate strategy would be to respect their customs and ways of life.

Weight limit for a porter

While the Nepalese government sets the standard weight allowance for porters at 35 kgs (77 lbs), it is not an enforced restriction; most of Nepal's more reputable trekking companies limit client trek loads to around 10 kgs per trekker (around 22 lbs), although the more dubious trekking agents expect porters to carry much more.

Extra days for the trip

It is critical to realize how difficult trekking in the Himalayas is. Anytime the weather can change, flights may be canceled as a result. Or, in higher locations, acclimatization may occasionally require more time. Additionally, you might want to take extra time to explore a location. So, to account for these circumstances, it's always a good idea to add more days to your travel schedule.

Related FAQs of Upper Mustang Trek

Do I need Acclimatization days for the Upper Mustang Trek?

The Upper Mustang journey typically lasts 16 to 17 days. During these days, you will walk on average 6 to 7 hours per day. This period often includes two to three days of rest or acclimatization. This is essential for trekkers who are new to the sport.

How Long Does it take for the Upper Mustang Trek?

The Upper Mustang journey typically lasts 16 to 17 days. During these days, you will walk on average 6 to 7 hours per day. However, it can be customized as per the trekker's desires and needs.

How much does it cost for the Upper Mustang Trek?

The cost per person for the Upper Mustang Trek ranges from $1785 to $3500. Depending on the services they offer, several firms offer differing prices for the Upper Mustang trek package. The cost of the Upper Mustang trekking permit makes it far more expensive to travel there than elsewhere.

The price of trekking tours varies depending on when and how you arrive. Quite an affordable group rate for a fixed-day check of date and space availability. Try the Lower Mustang hike if you're searching for a cheap getaway in Mustang. Upper Mustang trekking in private is incredibly pricey, but it is a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Can I do the Upper Mustang Trek solo?

You must travel in a group led by a certified guide because Upper Mustang is a restricted area and solo trekking is not permitted there. Without a guide, it is impossible to complete the Upper Mustang Trek, but with a guide and porter, your fantasy becomes a reality.

Visit the last forbidden kingdom in Nepal, which is close to the Chinese border with Tibet, to experience its intriguing hidden world of mustangs. To obtain permission, lone hikers can join the group, then set out on their own with the aid of a guide. However, the group's start and end dates for the trek should coincide.

Why is the Upper Mustang famous?

• One of the most well-known side trips, while you're there, is to go cave sightseeing in Upper Mustang. One of the highest densities of cliff caves carved by humans may be found in Mustang.
• One of the well-known settlements in Mustang is Lo-Manthang (4,300 m), the final Buddhist kingdom of Nepal.
• Mustang is renowned. The Kaligandaki River Gorge, the deepest canyon, is located here and is part of the Upper Mustang Trek route in Nepal.
• The Muktinath Temple in Mustang is well-known. Although there are several Buddhist monasteries inside the Muktinath wall, it is also a particularly sacred spot for Hindus. In Muktinath, the majority of the people are actually Buddhist monks.
• The historic trading route is Upper Mustang's claim to fame. It is the only route that connects the Tibetan plateau of China to the north with southern India. It is the Silk Road's old commerce route.
• "Marpha" is the name of a tiny alpine town in Mustang. The region that produces the world's best apple brandy for export. Don't forget to visit this well-known location in Mustang and sample the Marpha brandy or apple cider while you're there.

Why did the Upper Mustang call the Mustang a forbidden kingdom?

One of the few refuges of unaltered Tibetan culture is Mustang, a remote semi-independent Tibetan Kingdom north of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountains. Only in 1992 was it made accessible to Westerners. It is referred to as the "forbidden kingdom of Nepal" for this reason.

How Difficult is trekking to Upper Mustang?

The difficulty level for the Upper Mustang trek is moderate. This is neither as simple nor as challenging as the easy or hard-level hikes. However, like other treks, you may somewhat alter the Upper Mustang trek's degree of difficulty to fit your preferences.

Can beginner trekkers do the Upper Mustang Trek?

Yes, beginner trekkers can also complete this trek. The Upper Mustang journey typically lasts 17 to 18 days. During these 17 days, you will walk on average 6 to 7 hours every day. This period often comprises two to three days of rest or acclimatization. This is essential for trekkers who are new to the sport. A safe and comfortable trek can be had because of the longer duration, which gives you time to get used to the terrain.

What is the highest point of the Upper Mustang Trek?

On the Upper Mustang journey, hikers can reach Marang la, a peak that rises 4230 meters above sea level. The two highest points in the area, Lo Manthang and Chhoser, are 3810 and 3900 meters, respectively.

Why Jomsom Airport cannot operate in the afternoon?

Even though the trip only takes 20 minutes and covers a little distance, Jomsom Airport is on the north side of the Himalayas, while Pokhara lies on the south. The Himalayas cannot be crossed by the STOL aircraft operating this route at the necessary heights.

Strong winds at Jomsom Airport after dawn are a consequence of air rising in the Mustang District due to the heat from the sun, which also attracts strong southerly winds via the Kali Gandaki River canyon. Flights are frequently delayed or the airport is closed due to cloud cover, shifting visibility, and strong winds.