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.
