Why Upper Mustang Trek via Tangbe Tetang and Muktinath?
A forbidden ancient kingdom with the world's deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki Valley
Trek through dry cultivated fields with stunning views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, Nilgiri, and other mountains
Experience the mixed communities with Shakyamuni Buddhism and their lifestyles
Experiencing the enchanting Tibetan culture and traditions of the Upper Mustang
Encounter different monasteries and ancient Gompas
Lo Manthang - an unofficial Buddhist kingdom and capital of the Upper Mustang
Upper Mustang Tangbe Tetang Muktinath Trek Difficulty
The difficulty level of the trek entirely depends on the route chosen, altitude, weather conditions, and physical fitness of the trekkers. The trek reaches an elevation of up to 3,860 meters/12,664 feet at Chhoser Village which means altitude sickness also can be a challenge during this trek.
To avoid such difficulties, proper planning, great preparation, and acclimatization are essential. Trekkers are advised to join gym classes or be involved in cardiovascular exercises such as running, cycling, swimming, and a long day hike for at least one month before embarking on the trekking trail. It is essential to be prepared and build the capacity to walk around 6 to 8 hours per day for 12 days. Trekking with Bold Himalaya's experienced field staff, proper acclimatization ensures a successful trek without any difficulties.
Tips for Upper Mustang Tangbe Tetang Muktinath Trek
Carry adequate local cash for the trekking journey
Trek in the best season and stay updated with the weather
Climb slowly and acclimatize properly to adjust your body to higher altitudes
Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking
Follow the local rules while entering caves and monasteries
Respect local cultures, traditions, and beliefs
Trek with highly experienced guides and porters hired from the agency
Pack and bring all the necessary items
Carry snacks such as chocolate bars
Best Time for Upper Mustang Tangbe Tetang Muktinath Trek
A trek to Upper Mustang Tangbe Tetang and Muktinath trek is doable at any time of the year as each season contains its own features offering unique terrain and the best trekking experience for a lifetime. However, the Upper Mustang is closed during the Winter Season (December, January, and February) due to heavy snowfall in the area.
Spring Season (March, April, and May)
The Spring season is the time of year when nature comes to life, fresh plants emerge and flowers flourish in the forests. Along the trekking trail, trekkers will be rewarded with colorful forests shined by rhododendron flowers and splendid views of the surroundings. The clear weather, colorful visibility, and pleasant temperature make the Spring season the perfect time for trekking. Another major attraction while trekking in this season is the Tiji festival, celebrated in Lo Manthang village during the middle of May month.
Summer Season (June, July, and August)
Upper Mustang is situated in the rain shadow area of the Annapurna range, making it an ideal destination for trekking during the summer months when the trails are in excellent condition. The warm weather, sunny days, fascinating visibility, and the flora and fauna are at their peak during the summer season creating the perfect time for a trek. With the natural beauty of Upper Mustang, the Upper Mustang Tangbe Tetang Muktinath trek is one of Nepal's most beautiful trekking summer trekking destinations.
Autumn Season (September, October, and November)
The Autumn season is considered one of the best and busiest trekking seasons in Nepal. The weather remains stable, the skies are clear, moderate temperatures, and the trails are dry during this season. The season offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the opportunity to experience great festivals of Nepal like Dashain, Tihar, and Chhat while at the lower altitudes.
A day in Lo Manthang
Lo Manthang, the capital city of Upper Mustang consists of about 150 houses and some of the largest and finest Tibetan Buddhism and ancient monasteries and gompas. It is the day to take advantage and spend some pleasure time exploring the most important attractions of the Upper Mustang Tange Tetang Muktinath journey. Sightseeing around Lo Manthang village by visiting whitewashed mud-brick buildings, ancient royal palaces built in the 13th century, monasteries, and people's unique culture and traditions.
On this day, trekkers explore Jampa Gompa (an important Buddhist gompa that boasts huge statues of Buddha and the walls are covered with beautiful mandala designs), Namgyal Gompa, Other Gompas such as Chhoprang Gompa, Chodey Gompa, and Thubchen Gompa, Tingkhar village - located on the north-western side of Lo Manthang, and Mystical Chhosar village. At Chhosar village, trekkers witness the Nyphu monastery and a 2500-year-old cave settlement. These caves look like steep cliffs yet consist of 40 rooms with floors.
Trekking Crews
Trekking Guides and Porters
Since the trek lies in a restricted area, hiring a guide is compulsory from an authorized agency. To provide extreme care and enormous support, we at Bold Himalaya provide experienced and authorized guides and porters for the Upper Mustang Tangbe Tetang Muktinath trek. The guides and porters are valuable companions to ensure a successful trek. Our guides provide knowledge about the geography, history, and culture of the area.
Trekking with guides helps to build good connections with local people removing the language barrier. Our trek guides are well-known in the area thus your journey will be much more rewarding as they provide knowledge about the geography, history, and cultures of the area. Our guides ensure your safe, easy, and meaningful journey, and have fun throughout the entire trekking route.
Besides guides, Porters are also an essential part of trekking and play a vital role in ensuring your journey is comfortable. They carry your heavy backpack up to the weight limit of 20 kg so that you can fully immerse into the scenic beauty and cultural wonders of the Upper Mustang areas.
Chefs
While trekking, we provide expert chefs who prepare a variety of local and international cuisines using fresh and organic ingredients. Trekking with chefs ensures you have a refined dining experience with multi-course meals in the teahouses and tents. You can expect to be well-fed with a range of delicious and nourishing meals to keep you energized throughout the Upper Mustang Tangbe Tetang Muktinath trekking journey.
No. of Guides per group size
The number of guides required for the Upper Mustang Tangbe Tetang Muktinath trek varies according to group size. For a small group of 1 to 6 trekkers, one experienced guide is sufficient. The group of 7 to 12 trekkers will require two guides. Likewise, for every other additional trekking group of six people, one experienced guide will be added. The presence of an experienced number of guides and support staff ensures the safety and success of the trekking journey while maximizing enjoyment for the trekkers.
Permits
It is mandatory to obtain essential permits required for the Upper Mustang Tangbe Tetang Muktinath trek. The TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card, restricted area permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area entry permits are required before beginning the Upper Mustang Tangbe Tetang Muktinath trek.
Note: Provide us with all the essential documents and our trekking guides will obtain a permit for you.
Documents required for Permits
A valid passport
A passport copy or travel documents
A recent passport-size photo
Your contact details
Complete documents of travel insurance
Your arrival and departure details
Other Facilities
Drinking Water
While trekking, it is essential to drink at least 3 to 4 liters of water per day to stay hydrated throughout the trek. Along the Upper Mustang Tangbe Tetang Muktinath trekking trail, water taps are available at most of the places but make sure to use water purification tablets before drinking. It is also recommended to carry 3 or 4 water bottles for refilling purposes. You can also purchase mineral water or boiled water which are safe for drinking from the teahouses or hotels while trekking.
Electricity and Internet
All the tea houses and hotels along the trekking trail have access to electricity where you can charge your electronic devices by paying some additional charges. They also provide internet facilities through a WiFi router or you can get mobile network connections with NTC and NCELL throughout the trek.
During your stay at camps, electricity and internet access are not available so be prepared for the day.
Transportation
For the Upper Mustang Tangbe Tetang Muktinath trek, two types of transportation are involved:
Roadway transportation on public or private vehicles to transfer you from Kathmandu to Pokhara and return from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
Airways transportation by plane to reach Jomsom from Pokhara and return from Jomsom to Pokhara.
ATM and Money Exchange
The ATM services are available in some places like Jomsom, Kagbeni, and Muktinath but the money exchange facility is available only in Kathmandu and Pokhara. We suggest all our trekkers withdraw enough money and change it into Nepali currency while in Kathmandu and Pokhara city. It is also recommended to carry extra money with you while trekking.
Hot shower and Laundry services
All teahouses and hotels on trekking trails offer hot showers and laundry for additional charges.
For any other inquiries feel free to contact us at +9779849615880
Packing List
Travel Documents
Passport and visa, trekking permits, and enough Nepali currency
Clothing
A sunhat, scarf, and bandana, waterproof or windproof jacket, trekking trousers or pants, hiking shorts, thermal layers and thermal pants, down jacket, trekking shirts or t-shirts, underwear, sports bra (for women), sunglasses, gloves, trekking boots, sports shoes, woolen socks, and sandals.
Gears and Accessories
A large duffel bag, a backpack, a trekking stick, padlocks for duffel kit bags, headlamps or flashlights, and a sleeping bag.
First Aid kits and Toiletries
Personal medical kits, water purification tablets, quick-drying towels, earplugs, lip balm, sunscreen, toothbrush and toothpaste, face and body moisturizer, soap and shampoo, nail clippers, toilet paper, and anti-bacterial handwash.
Miscellaneous items
Plastic bags, cameras, mobile with extra batteries, portable chargers or power banks, universal adapters, snacks, reading books, and games like chess or ludo.
Travel Insurance
At higher altitudes during the Upper Mustang Tangbe Tetang Muktinath trek, weather is unpredictable and some sudden incidents might happen. So, it is mandatory to obtain travel insurance before trekking. Make sure your travel insurance covers all the medicinal expenses, loss of items, injury, accidents, and helicopter evacuation facilities in case of emergency.
Altitude Sickness and its Prevention
Altitude sickness is a condition that can be caused by exposure to higher altitudes. The Upper Mustang Tangbe Tetang Muktinath trek reaches an elevation of up to 3,860 meters so there is a possibility trekkers suffer altitude sickness if they do not maintain pace while walking. Once you pass over 3,000 meters, acclimatize properly, take enough time to adjust to the environment, and maintain a slow pace of walking to avoid altitude sickness. The symptoms may include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and headaches.
To prevent altitude sickness, climb slowly, eat carbohydrate-rich foods, drink plenty of water, avoid drinking alcohol and smoking, avoid dramatic gains in elevation, and acclimatize after passing every 500 meters.