Mustang, called as the district beyond the Himalayas, is an awe-inspiring trekking destination as the place endows the distinct landscapes and the typical Himalayan lifestyles in its original form.
Highlights of Upper Mustang Trekking
Experience mini Tibet: Tibetan people/culture/lifestyles.
Visit the picturesque areas including magnificent barren landscapes ancient caves, century old monasteries and many other archeological sites.
- Experience the Himalaya views from its backyard.
- Test the renowned local apples, apple pie and apple wine (marpha) in Jomsom.
- Visit Muktinath important pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhist.
- Fly over the Kaligandaki George, the world deepest.
- Take a tour in the beautiful city of Pokhara (Lakes, caves and Davis fall)
Upper Mustang, the part of Tibetan Plateau and popular as the mini Tibet, lies in the backyard of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Massifs. Various passes averaging the height of 4000m has to be crossed in order to reach the place. Mustang mostly constitutes barren treeless landscapes with many ancient caves. The dried yet colorful hills manifest the incredible beauty of nature even in the green less form.
The people in the naturally isolated region of Mustang have their own distinct lifestyles, culture and traditions that have continued for centuries. The culture is dominantly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism following as the place was once a part of ancient Tibet. The historic monasteries, Chortens enrolled with prayers flags and wheels, various Buddhists arts and festivals take us closer to the spiritual ideology that has flourished beauty and happiness in spite of such a hardship in the region. Lo Manthan is the capital of the former historic Kingdom of Mustang. The early history of Lo Manthan is embroidered by myths and legends rather than recorded facts.
Fees, Permits and Facilities
Foreign travelers have been allowed to the region since 1992 but tourism in this area is regulated. Foreigners need to obtain a special permit to enter in this area. Mustang is one of the most restricted trekking area of Nepal but now it is popular destination for trekkers. Upper Mustang is well marked by official "Mustang" boarder signs just north of Kagbeni where a police and ACAP checks permits for non-Nepalese seeking to enter the region, and at Gyu La (pass) east of Kagbeni.
Trekking permits for Mustang costs US $ 500 per person for 10 days. Note that it is defined as 10 days not nights, starting and ending at Kagbeni. Extra days are charged extra US $ 50 per day. In order to obtain the permit you need to have at least two members in a group. That means single permit won’t be allowed from the immigration. If you are single traveler, let us know, we can provide permits by joining you with other travelers group. We need your original passport copy to obtain the restricted area permits.
Best Trekking Seasons
Best of the Upper Mustang Trekking. Most of the population departs from Lo Manthang on trading expedition during the winter to avoid the cold and snow. The trekking season, therefore, is from late march until early November. The trek don’t go to extremely high elevations, but the cold, dust and unrelenting afternoon winds can make it less pleasant than other treks in Nepal.
You can also visit Muktinath through Helicopter . Go for other famous trekking destinations like Mardi Himal Trekking, peak climbing like Yala Peak Climbing, Tent Peak Climbing, Hiunchuli Peak Climbing, etc.
