Upper Mustang Trek - 14 Days

Upper Mustang Trek - 14 Days
Upper Mustang Trek - 14 Days
Upper Mustang Trek - 14 Days
At a Glance
Duration14 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude4,784m / 15,695 ft at Chooser Cave
Group Size2-10
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleTrekking
Best TimeSpring & Autumn

The Upper Mustang Trek is one of the hidden gems of Nepal in the Mustang region, often referred to as a journey to the Last Forbidden Kingdom of the Nepalese Himalayas. The entire region of the Upper Mustang is widely popular as Himal Pari Ko Gaon in Nepalese, the place beyond the mountains for its well-isolated location from the rest of the highly populated trekking destinations of Nepal that still has an active monarchical system within the Federal Democratic Republic of the country.

The realm of the Upper Mustang, hidden behind some of the top peaks of the world, is a natural and cultural treasure that has yet to be exposed to the influx of tourism in Nepal, as it has been opened for trekkers just in the recent years of 1992 and is a highly restricted trans-Himalayan region of the nation that allows only one thousand foreigners for entrance in a year.

Hence, a trek to the Upper Mustang is an adventurous dream Himalayan trip to discover the centuries-old history, culture, and true beauty of the Himalayas untouched by chaotic modernization in a tranquil setting of the foothills of snow-capped peaks and contrastingly deserted landscapes below.

Predominated by the Himalayan people of Gurung, Thakali, and Mustangi, some of whom share closer cultural, religious, and traditional ties with Tibet, you will be mesmerized by the harmonious fusion of Hinduism and Buddhism, as showcased by several ancient monasteries, typical stone-roofed Tibtean-style mud houses, spiritual cliff caves, and numerous stunning architectural landmarks.

Throughout the journey to the Upper Mustang, you will be followed by the panoramic views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and others, aiding to create an unparalleled experience of a lifetime, along with the rich cultural tapestry of the region, where, without a doubt, the walled city of Lo Manthang stands out as a cultural paradise, providing a unique insight into the most unspoiled Himalayan lifestyle.

Situated in the northwestern part of Nepal, in the Himalayas to the north of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, which share a border with Tibet, the trek to the Upper Mustang is a legendary hike that comes once in a lifetime, ensuring the most thrilling and pristine experience making a way through the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki.

Unveil the captivating cultural and natural mystique of Upper Mustang, where the historical civilization blends with the majesty of the Nepalese Himalayas. A timeless journey beyond boundaries with ageless wonders!

Highlight

  • Thrilling drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and vice versa.
  • At least two nights in the vibrant tourist hub of Nepal, Pokhara.
  • It was an incredibly scenic flight with sweeping views of the hills and mountains to and from Jomsom.
  • The dynasty views the majestic Lamjung Himal, and Annapurna ranges, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu East and West, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, and many others.
  • Venture deep into the secret kingdom of Nepal, Lo Manthang.
  • Get insider insight into the enriching customary life of the Mutangi people, mostly consisting of Thakali, Gurung, and Magar.
  • Immerse yourself in the cultural life of the locals, influenced by Buddhist and Hindu religious beliefs, and cherish each bond.
  • Sneak a peek into life in Tibet, etc.

What makes the trip to Upper Mustang Special?

Upper Mustang has been one of the top-notch trekking destinations in Nepal since its discovery, known for its unique insight into the unique blend of the Mustang region and its river valleys of the Kali Gandaki river gorge, as well as its impressive adventurous natural beauty and unparalleled sights of the Himalayas.

Serving as an ideal adventurers' haven throughout the year, making way from the lush subtropical land to the green meadows and later on the alpine region with only a few spottings of vegetation in the barren deserted land below the snow-clad peaks Here’s what you can expect from your 14-day special Upper Mustang trip:

The thrilling 25-30 min flight to and from Jomsom

The legendary trek to the Upper Mustang begins from Jomsom on an awe-inspiring flight of 25–30 minutes from the city of Pokhara, providing never-before-seen aerial views of the verdant woodlands, shimmering rivers, tiny river hamlets, cascading waterfalls, and an exclusive peek into some of the tops of the world completely covered in snow.

Functioning as the popular stopover for trekkers and travelers alike to the Upper Mustang, the beautiful district administrative town of the region, Jomsom is accessible from roadways as well; however, flight is a convenient option offering a quick and effective reach that would rather have been an arduous journey on foot, especially during the rainy season, which has a chance of having to deal with slippery trails and landscapes.

An amazing side trip to Chooser Cave

Nestled at an altitude of 4,784m amidst the stunning Himalayan panorama of Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri Range, Nilgiri Himal, Tilicho Peak, and Thorong Peak, a side trek to Chooser Cave during the 14-day Upper Mustang expedition takes you into the heart of the Himalayas, which bears the history of centuries of guiding the locals and several Buddhist monks and spiritual leaders through meditation and reflection in a serene atmosphere seemingly just made for it.

No wonder Chooser Cave is a photographer paradise, presenting you with ample opportunities to capture one-of-a-kind scenery while making your way through the gorgeous landscapes, including lush Himalayan valleys and traditional Tibetan settlements along with barren hills and alpine vegetation below rugged peaks, to relax in the tranquility.

The serene Kali Gandaki River valley and holy Saligram

Situated at an altitude of 6,268m above sea level, the Kali Gandaki is the world’s deepest gorge, cut in between the Annapurna and Dhaulgiri peaks, giving birth to one of the most dramatic landscapes along the Upper Mustang trekking trail, renowned for its gorgeous geological features, including ammonite fossils and ancient river terraces.

The black stones, which are considered extremely sacred as manifestations of the Hindu protector god Vishnu, called Shaligram or Saligrama, are one of the specialists on the river shore of Kali Gandaki, which is considered highly auspicious, powerful, and rare, being the only place on the planet where you can actually get one.

The presence of Saligram adds a mythical and spiritual sensation to the overall unforgettable rambling of Upper Mustang and the serene beauty of the Kali Gandaki River in the heart of the Himalayas.

Trek one of the most off-the-beaten Himalayan Trail

Located far away from the everyday chaos of urbanization in the remote trans-Himalayan region of Nepal bordering Tibet, Upper Mustang is accessible only by trekking on foot or by a small aircraft, granting isolation from the modern world and its dense population within limited infrastructure and amenities.

Hence, pilgrimage to the Upper Mustang offers a genuine raw wilderness, offering you a true sense of adventure and accomplishment as you traverse through challenging terrain, passing by several high mountain passes consisting of steep ascents and descends, rocky pathways, and so on, endowing the pristine beauty and cultural heritage due to its comparatively low popularity among tourists compared to some of the popular trekking routes in Nepal, like Everest Base Camp Odyssey and Annapurna Circuit Voayge, which are restricted regions of Nepal, requiring special permits for entry.

The unique cultural richness of Upper Mustang and its capital Lo Manthang

The Upper Mustang winds its way as a hidden kingdom due to its unique Tibetan Buddhist culture and heritage, boasting several ancient monasteries, dwellings, vibrant festivals, and numerous natural formations holding significant cultural and religious values preserved for centuries. A journey here is worth every effort that gives you a fascinating glimpse into the bygone prideful era of the region.

The walled city of Lo Manthang is still serving as the capital of the Trans Himalayan Tibetan Buddhist Kingdom, Upper Mustang, sharing a border with Tibet in the scenic arid landscapes of high cliffs, surreal, vibrant, rugged formations, distinctive mud-brick buildings, narrow alleyways, and centuries-old monasteries.

Every year, the Lo Manthang celebrates the Tiliji festival as the victory of good over evil, involving colorful masked dance, traditional rites and rituals, and religious ceremonies, attracting visitors from all across the globe while the local communities practice typical agriculture, cultivating high Himalayan crops such as barley, buckwheat, and potatoes, along with yak herding and horseback riding, come together in the festival, adding an incredible cultural charm and authenticity one must savor.

Hence, steeped in the rich history, spirituality, and tradition of the Nepalese Himalayas of the Mustang region, untainted by any modern civilization, calling all the naturalists and individuals seeking ultimate spiritual guidance to embark on the 14-day awesome journey to the Upper Mustang, serving as a center of spiritual connectivity, meditation, and a top-notch cultural and religious landmark where Lo Manthang definitely stands out to leave you in awe for sure.

14 Days Itinerary and route for the voyage to the Upper Mustang

Your journey to trek the Upper Mustang according to a 14-day itinerary begins with a joyous local bus/ private jeep/ car drive to the scenic city of Pokhara in 7-8 hours, depending on the traffic of the day, to make final preparations for the upcoming hiking journey that officially begins from Jomsom as a trek starting point after a 25–30 minute flight from Pokhara on the second day.

From Jomsom onwards, you will feel the mesmerizing change in the air that would have become much cooler and pristine, usually without any sign of pollutants, as you make your way to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang, dotted with typical Tibetan-style houses, to spend the night for the first time in the Himalayan local lodge opened and managed by natives to host travelers and trekkers.

The journey to the semi-arid deserted realm of Mustang continues, venturing each day deep into the scented and secret valleys as you pass by several Mani Walls, Gompas, and dwellings adorned with fluttering prayer flags in five main colors of white, green, yellow, red, and blue, representing five elements of the universe through Chele, Syanboche, Ghami, Charang, and finally to the major attraction of the Upper Mustang, the capital of the region itself, Lo Manthang.

By then, you would have gained a significant altitude, so the eighth day is allocated as the acclimatization day when you will embark on a side trip to Chooser Cave and return to Lo Manthang for the night. After spending two memorable days at the secret cultural and natural gem of the Mustang region, Lo Manthang, the descending trek begins first via Dhakamar, Ghiling, Chuksang, and Jomsom.

In between, look forward to observing fluctuation in altitude while the 14-day route to venture into the Upper Mustang on reaching Jomsom boards a flight back to Pokhara on the thirteenth day; consequently, take a reverse ride to Kathmandu on a tourist bus, jeep, or car at last, where the unforgettable package with customizable itinerary ends.

Throughout the journey to the Upper Mustang, following the guidance of local guides, this 14-day itinerary grants you everlasting sweeping views of Mt. Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhare, Nilgiri, and many others, along with jaw-dropping scenery from the edge of the Kali Gandaki River flowing at full speed formed by the melting of glaciers, and hence it is believed to be the best route to traverse the Upper Mustang that can be customized and tailored as per the specific preferences and needs of trekkers and travelers.

This precise itinerary to go for the Upper Mustang Odyssey provides a comprehensive look out at the stunning landscape and cultural treasures thoroughly without having to rush the pace of hiking at a low risk of missing any of the key features of the Himalayan region and can be adjusted based on your likings, level of fitness, and time availability. Let us know what you are seeking in your holidays of 2024 and 2025, where the Upper Mustang along with the Nepalese Himalayas has a lot to offer!

Upper Mustang Trek Cost

It can cost you anywhere between USD 1,500 and USD 3,500 to go on an extraordinary cultural and natural excursion to the Upper Mustang, depending on the duration of your trek, the size of the expedition group, the types of services you have chosen, and side treks you do simultaneously.

Contact us now for special discounts on our 14-day package cost to the Upper Mustang while Ammonite Adventures and Treks take care of your trekking logistics, including necessities such as food, accommodation, mandatory permits, and government-licensed guides and porters.

Itinerary

An early morning drive takes you to the tourist hub of Nepal, Pokhara. The ride in a cozy tourist bus begins only after a hearty breakfast, following the bank of the roaring Trishuli River at first and later on the Marsyangdi Khola.

Throughout the drive time, you will ghetto enjoy the jaw-dropping views of Mt. Dhaulagiri to the west, Annapurna and Machhapuchhre to the north, and Lamjung Himal to the east to catch their reflection in the lake of Phewa in the same evening.

Max. Altitude: 1,400mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Three-Star-Hotel

The time has come to board a scenic flight to Jomsom and view the most amazing snow-capped peaks from the aircraft in 25–30 minutes.

On reaching Jomsom, the trek officially begins to reach Kagbeni, an incredible Nepalese deserted land.

Max. Altitude: 2,804mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodges and Tea Houses

At Kagbeni, you will register your visit to the Upper Mustang with the essential permits and set off early through the Chuksang along the eastern river shore of the Kali Gandaki to avoid the strong wind of the afternoon, which tends to obstruct visibility.

The deserted realm at the foothills of the Himalayas, in contrast to the lush valleys below and snow-clad peaks above, is truly magnificent. To call it a day at Chele, passing by several ridges with expanded views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Mt. Nilgiri.

Max. Altitude: 3,055m / 10,025ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodges and Tea Houses

Now, a comparatively strenuous section of the overall hiking to the Upper Mustang begins with an altitude gain of more than 800m that includes several sections of steep ascent and descent, which are especially notable rising to Eklo Bhatti by a canyon and then Taklam La High pass (3,624 meters).

Throughout this trekking day, you will be exposed to the most stunning sights of Yaskawa Kang, Damodar Danda, Tilicho Peak, and Mt. Nilgiri, specifically from Samar, which descends by the giant gorge past Rangchutung Chorten, and finally the destination of the day, Syangboche.

Max. Altitude: 3,930m / 11,400ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodges and Tea Houses

Another beautiful trek day begins early to ascent to Yamda La and Nyi La mountain passes, following breakfast to arrive at the traditional mountain village of Ghami, which passes by numerous local tea houses and lodges to refill boiled water to keep yourself hydrated and see the traces of Tibetan culture and traditions.

In between these passes, you will descend to the barley field at Gelling with mud houses that reach Tama Gaun, while the deserted landscapes keep you entertained and finally take you to the village of Ghami.

Max. Altitude: 3,930m / 11,400ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodges and Tea Houses

Today's trek is through the driest part of the Mustang Trekking region, which starts with a first cross of Ghami Khola on a suspension bridge and continuous ascending and descending hiking over the plateau and Mani Walls until you arrive at the hamlet of Charang to spend the night.

The level of oxygen here can be significantly low, adding much to the challenge, which is rewarded with the never-ending vistas of the surrounding mountains keeping you refreshed.

Max. Altitude: 3,520m / 11,535ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodges and Tea Houses

Following the filling morning breakfast, you will begin a leveled-up terrain and climb up another mountain pass, Lo La, directing you to the hidden kingdom of the Mustang region called Lo Manthang.

The Pass has magnificent views of Bhrikuti Peak, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Tilicho, diverging from the main trail to explore the Lo Manthang Valley in the evening.

Max. Altitude: 3,700mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodges and Tea Houses

The much-awaited full rest day is here when you will spend the entire day touring the most historical and cultural fascination of the Mustang region, called Lo Manthang. You are free to explore the nearby local monasteries, such as Namgyal and Tingkhar.

To reach Chooser Cave, make sure to follow the footsteps of your mountain guide, enjoying the picturesque landscapes, and later on learn about the ancient history and origins of the cave, along with the intricate architecture, murals, and religious artifacts within the cave complex.

Max. Altitude: 4,784mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodges and Tea Houses

Although the reverse trek begins this day through quite dusty, rugged, and occasional climbs and downhill walks, throughout the journey you will be exposed to the high-altitude terrain passing through Gyakar, which has a more than 1,200-year-old Ghar Gompa where Guru Rinpoche is believed to have meditated.

After 3–4 hours of walking from Lo Manthang, you would have made it to Dhakmar. As both are high-altitude stopovers, it is extremely important to keep up the pace and conclude the day at the teahouse on the outskirts of Dhakmar.

Max. Altitude: 3,810mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodges and Tea Houses

This day you will hit off the trekking trail right after the organic breakfast in a pleasing manner, as the chances of noticing a significant altitude change this day are very low, even though the route generally consists of rocky paths, open landscapes, and occasional ascents and descents until you reach Ghiling.

Max. Altitude: 3,810mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodges and Tea Houses

This day also begins with an early morning breakfast to proceed down the main trekking trail, relishing the jaw-dropping scenery with remarkable mountain views, to finally arrive at Chhuksang and take a stroll around, gazing at the starry skies at night, brightened by the snow-capped peaks.

Max. Altitude: 3,806mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodges and Tea Houses

It is the final trek day as you head toward Jomsom from Chhuksang to catch a flight the very next day to Pokhara, which can be overwhelming. Savor the panoramic peaks to the fullest and spend overnight at the district administration of the Mustang region, Jomsom.

Max. Altitude: 3,050mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodges and Tea Houses

On the thirteenth day, you will head back to the city of adventure in Nepal, Pokhara, where you can find every sort of thrilling thing to do, from paragliding, boating, rafting, and canyoning to simply strolling around numerous historical and natural heritage sites and others that you are desirous of having accomplished.

It will take you around 25–30 minutes to make it scenically to Pokhara by helicopter or airplane, and it is more advisable to travel by road, which during the summer season can be severely landslide-prone.

Max. Altitude: 2,804mMeal: BreakfastAccommodation: Three- Star-Hotel

The overall journey to the Upper Mustang concludes this day as you take a tourist bus back to the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, following approximately 200km of the Kali Gandaki River at first, then the Trishuli River via the Prithivi Highway.

By afternoon, you would have already made it to Kathmandu to enjoy the nightlife of Thamel in the heart of the city, buy some souvenirs to take home, and join your trek mates for a complimentary dinner in the evening.

Max. Altitude: 1,400mMeal: Breakfast-DinnerAccommodation: Three-Star-Hotel
Customize Trip
Trip Service Details
Included
  • Three-star hotel throughout your stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Comfortable tea houses and local lodges during your trek days.
  • Tourists pay by bus, private jeep, or car fare.
  • Scenic domestic flight fee to and from Jomsom.
  • All three hearty meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the Upper Mustang trek days.
  • Well-spoken government-licensed professional trekking guide and map.
  • Insurance for all the Nepalese trek members, such as guides and porters, including trekking gear and equipment.
  • Garbage deposit and other necessary fees.
  • Essential legal permits such as the TIMS Card, MCAP, and RAP.
Excluded
  • International flight tickets and visa fees.
  • Travel insurance for trekkers and travelers provides coverage for high-altitude medical emergencies or any other unforeseen circumstances and accidents.
  • Lunch, dinner, and extra-night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara are outside of the itinerary.
  • Personal expenditures included drinks, snacks, shopping, phone calls, internet data, and souvenirs.
  • Porter can carry a maximum weight of shared 25 kg for two trekkers.
  • Hardworking Guide and Porter Trek's gratitude are much appreciated.
Dates & Availability
Starts:December 15, 2024Ends:December 28, 2024
PriceUS$1635
AvailabilityGuaranteed
Starts:December 30, 2024Ends:January 12, 2025
PriceUS$1635
AvailabilityGuaranteed
Additional Info

When is the best time to visit the Upper Mustang?

Undoubtedly, the months of spring and autumn are the best times to venture to the Upper Mustang; however, as the whole journey to this region of Nepal is to a secret trans-Himalayan part of the nation isolated by the gigantic peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhare in the rain shadow realm, monsoon intake is also the best time to explore the Upper Mustang.

Winter in the Upper Mustang can be freezingly cold, which might call for a few extra steps of consideration in packing, gearing, and equipment selection to make the most of the 14-day thrilling natural and cultural excursion to the Upper Mustang.

Do you need a restricted area permit for the Upper Mustang Trek?

Yes, as the infamous Upper Mustang Trekking region comes under one of the highly restricted zones of Nepal, you must be permitted a special entrance to the region along with the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card and the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).

Hence, you will need at least three mandatory permits to trek the Upper Mustang, the trans-Himalayan region of Nepal: the TIMS Card, MCAP, and RAP, which are generally issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) that you can obtain on taking service from any locally registered trekking companies in the country, saving you from the hassling procedure.

What is the difficulty grade of the Upper Mustang expedition?

The adventurous journey to the Upper Mustang is regarded as moderately challenging upper Himalayan hiking due to its possible encounter with several ascents and descents along the rugged terrain, while the weather is a frequently changing factor posing unforeseen risks of strong wind, snow dumping, or a drastic drop in temperature upon reaching a notable altitude.

Nonetheless, Upper Mustang Trekking is feasible throughout the year with adequate preparation, appropriate gearing, and the selection of the correct equipment that can be traversed by any healthy individual without any age or experience restriction.

How to keep yourself fit for the Upper Mustang Voyage?

As a first-timer in Nepal seeking to trek the higher altitude treks such as the Upper Mustang, involving several days of rambling through some steep uphill and downhill trails in the highly elevated land that can actually cause spotting of acute mountain sickness, it is extremely important to keep yourself physically conditioned and mentally determined while handing over the logistic planning to a reliable local travel and trek operator.

Here is a list of things that you can do to gain your confidence before actually embarking on the Upper Mustang.

  • Engage yourself in cardiovascular endurance-enhancing exercises such as swimming, cycling, trekking, and running.
  • Do not skip the daily squats, lungs, pushups, and, if possible, deadlifts to increase muscle strength and general stability.
  • Try incorporating hiking and trekking into moderate-altitude, locally available trails to keep yourself familiar with the higher elevations, such as the Upper Mustang.
  • Practice hiking while carrying some essential equipment and supplies to upgrade your strength and endurance required for the upcoming journey.
  • If you are concerned about your level of fitness and preparedness, always consider consulting with a medical professional, experienced trekkers, or any expert guides and porters, etc.

Why pack lightly for the Upper Mustang Trek?

The rambling to the Upper Mustang involves several days of hiking through rugged terrain at varying altitudes, where carrying a heavy backpack can increase the possibility of physical strain and fatigue, while light backpacking with only essential items provides flexibility with movement allowing efficient acclimatization and comfort pace, mitigating the chances of altitude sickness as well.

Although it is possible to hire porters to decrease the weight on your shoulders, how much they can do is limited, and excessive luggage can cost you additionally. Hence, it is crucial to pack what is necessary in a light manner that ensures the convenient management of your backpack and the hiring of a porter in need without exceeding the weight limits, allowing more freedom with your itinerary and excessive baggage.

If you are wondering what to pack for an incredible hassle-free venture into the Upper Mustang, please go through this comprehensive packing list:

Head

  • Sun hat or scarf
  • Winter hat insulating hat or wide-brimmed hat
  • Headlight with extra batteries

Face

  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglass with UV protection
  • Face/body wipes
  • Hands
  • Lightweight gloves
  • Heavyweight winter gloves

Body

  • Hiking shirts
  • Long-sleeved shirt
  • Hooded rain jacket
  • Fleece jacket
  • Lightweight cotton pants
  • T-Shirt (bring Lightweight wool)
  • Polypropylene underwear
  • Down jacket (available for rent in Kathmandu)
  • Waterproof jacket and pants

Footwear

  • Hiking Boots
  • Thick wool socks (take an extra pair of thick light socks)

Essential gear

  • Backpack or daypack (Size depends on whether you take a porter or not).
  • Thermal bottle
  • Water purification
  • Trekking pole
  • Sleeping bag (-15 bag is best in high altitude trekking)

Toiletries

  • Medium size quickly drying towel
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste

Extra items

  • Nepalese Currency
  • Watch
  • Cell phone
  • Camera
  • First aid kit
  • Extra passport photos and photocopies of passport
FAQs

Although travelers and trekking aspirants are not obligated to get travel insurance, it offers financial security and assurance against various unforeseen events, which are everyday circumstances for Himalayan locals traversing in such isolated areas as Upper Mustang.

In more touristic places like Kathmandu and Pokhara, along with the trek starting point of Upper Mustang, Jomsom, you can enjoy continental and western options as well, while on the trekking route, it can get limited to typical Nepali and Tibetan dishes due to the remoteness of the area in the higher altitude trans-Himalayan zone.

Yes, besides the well-developed tourist hub of Nepal in the cities of Kathmandu and Pokhara, the ancient deserted yet larger villages of the Upper Mustang: Kagbeni, Jomsom, and Lo Manthang, you can have access to private rooms for yourself, which might cost you additionally, while staying in shared rooms with twin beds in tea houses and local lodges is a common and effective practice in rural countryside trekking destinations of Nepal in the Himalayas.

In addition to the price, or sometimes complimentary, you can get your electronic devices, such as your cell phone and camera, charged at the teahouse and local lodges en route to the Upper Mustang.

Of course, you can buy bottled mineral water on the trekking trail to Upper Mustang, although it can cost you slightly more than what you have been used to and is not recommended at all so that you can aid in ecotourism and ecotourism as a responsible trekker.

Yes, a professional guide is a must-have trekking companion who makes your journey free of worries while dealing with most of the trek logistics and guides you successfully through some of the sections that seem tough for beginners traversing without a guide, along with solo traveling in Nepal without a guide being banned since April 1st, 2023.

Even though the overall tour to the Trans Himalayan Upper Mustang region of Nepal does not exceed more than 4,000 m, the maximum altitude you will be at is in the Chooser Cave at an elevation of 4,784m (15,695 ft) with Ammonite Adventures and Treks.

Yes, on one of the high-altitude treks in the Upper Himalayan region of Nepal, spotting some of the symptoms of mountain sickness is a normal occurrence; hence, it is important to consume a healthy diet, remain hydrated, acclimate appropriately, maintain the pace, and follow your mountain guide.

One thing trekkers must avoid when seeing the symptoms of altitude sickness, or AMS, is ascending or descending without fully recovering, along with alcohol or any intoxicants.

Yes, a bucketful of lukewarm water with a jug in the highly elevated tea house and lodges on the way to Upper Mustang at an additional cost is not an issue, while in Kathmandu and Pokhara it can come as a compliment.