Upper Mustang trek

Nepal government imposed restrictions for tourism in upper mustang mainly for border security concerns between Nepal and Tibet (a Part of China). Some others reason are to preserve the region’s cultural and historical significance, to protect the globally threatened flora, fauna and environment of the forbidden kingdom of Lo. These factors ensure the safety and security of border, nature, culture, history and visitors.

Upper Mustang is famous for its unique culture, stunning landscapes, rich history and cave civilization. Upper Mustang is a unique and fascinating region that offers a glimpse into a culture and way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Upper mustang opened for foreign visitor since 1992 AD, it is controlled but possible to visit with special permits.  There are many ways to go to upper mustang area. Book incredible upper mustang trek & tours online to visit last forbidden kingdom in Nepal.

Total distance of upper mustang trek regular route is 124 kilometers / 77 miles’ round trip via Jomsom. It means Upper mustang trek distance 62 km / 38.5 miles each way. It includes visiting the ancient monasteries, caves, and beautiful landscapes that the region is famous for. In fact, walking distance vary as per specific itinerary and side trips taken along the way (there are number of different itineraries available, consult with expert to organize trip as per your interest). No matter how long you choose to hike in Ancient caravan route, this is a truly unforgettable experience.

The upper mustang trek takes around 10 to 18 days to complete with an average walking time of 5-7 hours per day. It takes minimum 7 days to reach Lo Manthang from Jomsom Nepal and 4 days to return. However, the duration of trek can be shorter or longer depend on your fitness level, pace of group, rest days for acclimatization, personal preferences and the number of side trips.

The standard duration for the Upper Mustang trek is around 14 days, which includes 10 days of trekking and 4 days for transportation, acclimatization, and sightseeing. Mustang trekking suitable for those capable to walk 5 to 7 hours each day. Those cannot walk we do provide upper mustang tour package by luxury jeep to observe its unique nature and Tibetan culture. It is possible to complete Upper mustang trip within a week by jeep.

This journey is to discover its isolation, scenic natural beauty, rich history, mystery of sky caves, wildlife, flora, pure Tibetan culture and lifestyle of Lowa in upper mustang Nepal. There are many other reasons to hiking through high-altitude passes, lush green valleys and barren moonscapes of rain shadow in the Himalayas. The views of beautiful landscapes, surrounding mountains, including Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, are simply breathtaking.

The cost to issue upper mustang permit depends on the number of days you will spend in restricted area. General upper mustang trekking permit cost is us$ 500 for first 10 days and then us$ 50 for each additional day. In addition to special permit, you need to pay for Annapurna conservation area permit, it costs NPR 3000 each.

Upper mustang trek is a moderate to fairly challenging walk. Note that individual experiences of difficulty can vary based on factors such as personal fitness, previous trekking experience, altitude tolerance and weather conditions. Proper preparation, physical fitness, and acclimatization are key to enjoy this trek safely. Trekkers need to be physically fit and prepared for the high altitude environment.

Upper mustang trek requires dedication, consistency and proper planning because trek takes you through remote and stunning landscapes of mustang Nepal. To prepare or get fit for this trek, you need to focus on building your overall physical endurance, strength, mental preparation, cardiovascular training, and hiking practice etc. Practice mental resilience techniques such as meditation, mindfulness, and visualization to help you stay focused and positive during the trek. These techniques help you to get fit to make successful journey.

It is not easy to hike uphill and downhill in high altitude, remote area of Himalayas but doable. Before going for this trek do exercises like squats, lunges, leg presses, planks, push-ups, yoga and rows in your workout routine. It strength your body and leg muscles to handle the uneven terrain. Generally, this trek is considered to be a moderate hike in terms of difficulty level.

Packing for the upper mustang trek needs careful concern of the region’s climate, terrain, specific time of year and cultural sensitivities. Here is a list or require things for general guideline. Clothing like pants, shirts, gloves, jacket, socks, boots and best layers etc. Accessories like sunglasses, hat, trekking poles, scarf and sunscreen etc. gear like backpack, sleeping bag, flash light, water bottle, first aid kit, camera and route map etc. Toiletries like toothbrush and toothpaste, toilet paper, soap, towel and personal hygiene items etc. Upper mustang region is a remote and arid area in Nepal, so it’s important to pack appropriately to ensure your comfort and safety. Follow given link to get the latest packing list for upper mustang tour based on current conditions.

There are verities of accommodation available in upper mustang route like luxury lodges, hotels / resorts, basic teahouses or guesthouses, homestays, camping and monastery stays as per your preferences. Availability and quality of accommodations may vary depending on the specific village or stop along the route. Teahouses, homestays and monastery stays provides immersive cultural experience and a chance to interact with the local people closely. Visitors will come across traditional Tibetan-style villages, ancient monasteries, and other cultural landmarks that have remained unchanged for centuries. Local teahouses, homestays or lodges offer neat and clean room with basic facilities including verity of western food as well as local cuisine.

Start research about destination, routes, permits, weather conditions, cultural highlights and reputed agency before book the best upper mustang trek package Nepal. Upper mustang is a restricted region, known for its unique culture, stunning landscapes and Tibetan influence where one can get the chance to explore a unique part of the world. Embark on your trek with a positive attitude and an open mind. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery, interact with locals, and immerse yourself in the culture of Mustang.

Upper Mustang region requires a special permit for trekking due to its restricted area status, which adds to administrative requirements of trek. Travelers need to go through a registered trekking agency to obtain the necessary permits for Upper Mustang Nepal. Annapurna conservation area Permit ACAP and Restricted Area Permit RAP are the main permit you need to trek in Upper Mustang region. Restricted Area Permit issued by Nepal immigration office and ACAP permit issued by the national trust for nature conservation. Agency takes your passport, visa, and photographs to submit the permit applications to the relevant authorities. This process can take whole day, once application approved and permits issued, you can begin your Upper Mustang trekking. All permits obtain either in Kathmandu or Pokhara, it is valid for one entry and exit within specific date.

The highest point of upper mustang trek is Marang la or Chogo la located at an elevation of 4230 meters / feet above sea level. The trek itself offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, unique landscapes, rock formations and insights into the culture and traditions of mustang region in Nepal.

Upper mustang trek Nepal offers unforgettable experience due to its remote and preserved nature. Generally, travelers get an opportunity to explore restricted area, arid valleys, desert-like terrain, colorful rock formations, and dramatic cliffs and encounter the kali Gandaki river gorge, which is one of the deepest in the world. Tibetan culture, lifestyle, architecture and cave civilization make upper mustang trip aa rewarding journey into the Himalayas.

Upper mustang is a region located in the north-central part of Nepal, behind the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges and is bordered by Tibet (china) to the north in the Himalayas. It is a remote and semi-autonomous region that was once a part of the Tibetan kingdom of lo. The region is known for its unique culture, stunning landscapes, rugged terrain, preserved Tibetan culture, sky caves and ancient Buddhist monasteries. It has gained popularity as a trekking destination in recent years, offering travelers a chance to explore its rugged terrain and experience its rich cultural heritage. The walled city “Lo Manthang” is the administrative center of upper mustang and the capital city of former kingdom of Lo.

Nepal-Tibet salt trading path takes to the mysterious hidden kingdom and its capital in the Himalayas. It is very important to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) in high altitude to ensure safely and enjoyment. AMS occurs when your body doesn’t acclimatize properly to the decreased oxygen levels at high altitudes. There are few ways to prevent AMS during upper mustang trek or any other high altitude trip.

Ascend slowly to allow your body to acclimatize to the altitude and climb high sleep low to minimize risk factors. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, consume balanced diet, avoid alcohol, smoking and excessive caffeine, listen to your body and take breaks as needed.

Avoid ascending more than 1,000 -1,600 feet per day once you reach 3,000 meters above sea level, travel with guide, who can control the pace in high altitude and help to descent lower elevation just in case anyone feel severe symptoms of sickness. AMS can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness level give the first priority for health and safety during upper mustang trek Nepal.

Upper mustang trekking route is a part of restricted area in this way solo trekking is not allowed. You have to have a minimum 2 people in a group and need to issue permit through registered trekking company of Nepal. When you book full board package or service package only then we manage require things according to the plan. Safety is a paramount concern, especially in remote and high-altitude areas try to find a friend not allowed to go alone. Discover ancient monasteries, untouched Tibetan culture and life, incredible geography stored in your memory forever.

Spring season begins from March and end in May. It is one of the best time to visit in high land of Himalayas including mountaineering in Nepal. Spring season (March, April & May months) offers perfect weather, temperature, clear visibility in bright warm days, suitable for trekking and peak climbing. It is neither too cold nor too hot. Spring is one of the great time to explore the Upper Mustang region as the weather is mild, and the skies are clear.

The months of Autumn season are an ideal time to visit upper mustang area. Autumn have a tendency to offers favorable temperatures, clear skies, no rain and snowfall. From the second week of September to the second week of December, the weather conditions of mustang become very nice, temperature remains mild; that makes a perfect time for trekking and overland tour by 4wd jeep. September, October and November month provides splendid views, clear visibility, blue sky with finest temperature. it provides lifetime experience in the Himalayas.

Upper Mustang trek in autumn is one of the unique trip to explore Tibetan civilization, pure Buddhist culture and mysterious landscape of Himalayas. Plan a trip in autumn months to visit “Last Forbidden Kingdom” with local guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Takes time for regular upper mustang trek is 14 days, which includes 10 days of trekking and 4 days for transportation, acclimatization, and sightseeing. Though, there are variations of the route like Upper mustang circuit, Damodar kunda, Nar Phu to mustang and upper dolpo to upper mustang trek takes longer days.

Shortest trek to visit upper mustang area is 10 days. It is possible to complete Upper mustang tour within a week by jeep too. This journey takes you to the mysterious hidden kingdom and its capital in the Himalayas. Ancient monasteries, untouched Tibetan culture and life, incredible geography stored in your memory forever. If you have time and energy better to do 17 days’ upper mustang sky caves discovery trek to explore everything.

Road construction in upper mustang route carries many opportunity and conflicts too. Limited number of tourist visited this area by trekking before road construction but now days there are huge number of domestic and foreign tourist visit upper mustang by drive. This road destroyed the trekking route but brings lots of tourist and connect Nepal and China by road for business as well. It is modern silk road for trade between Nepal and Tibet. Pokhara to Korala road via mustang play the great role to uplift economy of Nepal.
Some of the trekking agency and workers loose the business, but it open wide door for different business including tours. It is great evolution for Nepalese community live in Mustang. Before road construction people of mustang face lots of problems in transportation.
After road construction local get double option in transportation by air and overland.