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Upper Mustang Trek

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Trip Facts

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Trip Duration 17 Days
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Trip Difficulty
Moderate
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Max. Altitude 4,000m/13,123ft
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Group Size Minimum 2 Pax
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Destination Upper Mustang
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Activity 5-7 hrs walking per day
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Best Season March-May (Spring), mid Sept-Nov(Autumn)
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Region Mustang
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Nature of Trip Tea House to Tea House Trekking
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Meal B, L, D (included during the trek)
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Accommodation Tea Houses and Lodges
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Transportation Vehicles/Flight included

Highlights of Upper Mustang Trek

  • Trek past roaring rivers, green countryside, alpine meadows, valleys, mountain deserts etc.
  • Breathtaking view of majestic mountain peak like, Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Annapurna range, Mt. Dhaulagiri & several other majestic peaks
  • Scenic Pokhara-Jomsom flight.
  • Lo-Manthang, the walled capital of ancient Kingdom of Lo.
  • Some of the oldest monasteries found in entire world, can be spotted in this region.
  • Pre-historic caves & cave temples, with deep connection to the civilisation and history of people living in this region.
  • Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu at UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Pokhara, the most city situated on the side of Phewa lake, with vivid nightlife and establishment with modern amenities.
  • Varied of floras & faunas of Mustang region.
  • Unique culture, tradition and lifestyle of people that is distinct to this region.

Trip Overview

Upper Mustang Trek takes you to one of Nepal’s most popular yet remote parts where you get to observe some of the most desolate and fascinating landscapes and traditional cultures secluded from modernity. Upper Mustang is located in the north-central region of Nepal that borders China. Till two decades ago, this part of Nepal was restricted to tourism, as the zealous government wanted to keep the pie of Shangri-la, off-limit to foreigners. Thus, getting it the nickname of ‘The Forbidden City’ or ‘Little Tibet’. The trails to and in Upper Mustang traverse through natural marvels spanning isolated valleys, ancient villages, exquisite caves, and natural vegetation. The primary objective of going to Mustang is to Marvel at Lo Manthang, the capital of the Mustang region. Getting to it is only possible by hiking through its high altitude weathered isolated trails. Lo Manthang is renowned for its old monasteries, meditation caves, local art and architectural marvels, and scenic wonders.

Your zeal and eagerness to familiarize the wonders offered by Upper Mustang will pierce the sky, as you board a scenic Pokhara-Jomsom flight taking you to the Jomsom. After reaching Jomsom, you will start to ascend gradually to Kagbeni, leading you to Lo Manthang, the pivotal point of your trekking destination in the district, Mustang. Your quest to get to Lo-Manthang is only complimented by thousand-year-old monasteries, burlesque landscapes, and cultural and historical landmarks all scattered throughout the trail. The path takes you through Kali Gandaki River banks which have over several hundred thousand years formed one of the deepest valleys on earth. When it’s all over, you end up at Jomsom. This trekking route is best suited for enthusiastic adventurous hikers who want to see the enchanting region of Upper Mustang. Upper Mustang indubitably is one of the most rewarding treks done in the Mustang district, which provides cultural immersion, observation of natural wonders, and exploration of ancient landmarks which to this day hold mysteries unfathomable to historians.

There is much that one gains and learns from doing this trek. One of the major highlights was, getting to the once-forbidden city of Lo Manthang which was off-limits to the outer world till the 1990s. Then witness how the Tibetan influence has molded the beliefs of natives.  Enjoy the pleasure of visiting the caves above the valley where religious troglodytes used to live. Observe how cultivation for sustenance was and still is done in this isolated part of western Nepal. Get the golden opportunity to see some of the rarest species of birds and animals that dwell in this remote region. While trekking in this barren and mystical region, you will also get glimpses of the various snow-capped mountain peaks. The lower elevation region of the trek welcomes visitors with the lush green forest. The best part is, traveling on foot through some of the roughest but friendly trails for trekking enthusiasts that was naturally created.


Upper Mustang Trek Route/Trail

Your ultimate trekking adventure commences from the capital. Firstly you have to get to Pokhara, you can get on a bus, after 6-7 hours drive you will get to Pokhara, or you can board a flight which will take you to Pokhara in just 25. From Pokhara, you will board a scenic flight to Jomsom Airport. The trans-Himalayan flight will provide mesmerizing views of several mountain peaks of the Annapurna Range and Dhaulagiri Range and take you to Jomsom in 35-40 minutes. From Jomsom, your actual trek begins. After getting to Jomsom Airport, the same day you will hike to Kagbeni a rural town where the Annapurna Circuit Trail merges after descending from Thorung La Pass. The fairly easy day hike will take you anywhere from 4-5 hours to complete, and prepare you for the upcoming adventure. From Kagbeni, you will follow the trail along the Kaligandaki River, passing through Thangbe and Chhuksang (Chhusang) village and finally to Chele village; our checkpoint. From Chele, you will traverse through Samar village and Syangboche village to reach Ghiling; another checkpoint. Further following the trail, you will reach Tsrang also called Chrang. From Tsrang you will pass through Sakure village and Morang La pass before finally reaching Lo Manthang. The Trekking trail differs from the route used by vehicles to reach Lo Manthang. Trekking trail traverses through places that are obscured and hidden in plain sight yet inundated with enchanting natural beauty and rich cultural and religious history.


Major Attraction of Upper Mustang Trek | What to Expect During Upper Mustang Trek?

Upper Mustang Trek is not only a Trek, it is an odyssey that will take you on the exploration of Natural wonders, cultural enigmas, and historical and religious mysteries that have been blanketed away from foreigners for several decades. There are geographical and cultural marvels that this region boasts, that attract many visitors every year. Some of the things that you might expect to witness during Upper Mustang Trek are:

Jomsom

Jomsom is a beautiful windy city sandwiched between the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Ranges. This small city consists of the only airport in the Mustang region. The moment you step your feet down on this place, you will experience a different aura and vibe that this place radiates. The streets and architecture of houses will make you feel like you have arrived in the past. The vibrant colors of prayer flags, walls with prayer wheels, chhorten gates, and small Buddhist shrines you will find while in Jomsom will flaunt its bucolic beauty to every visitor. Mostly inhabited by Thakali and Gurung people, the cultural, traditional, and religious aspects of people living in this area are heavily influenced by Tibetan culture. Jomsom like many other villages one comes across while on this trek carries unspoiled and chaste beauty that no one will have enough of it.

Lo Manthang

Lo Manthang, which translates to “The walled city”, used to be the ancient capital of the Lo Kingdom of Mustang region. In ancient times, the road that traversed through Upper Mustang was used by traders to transport goods to and from Tibet to different regions of Nepal. Lo Manthang, which happens to be the last village one will encounter before reaching the Korala Border had important financial significance in ancient times. Not only financially, but religiously too Lo Manthang is considered an important landmark.  There are many monasteries and gompas which are thousand years old. Also, there are ancient caves that were used by monks for meditation which in many cases used to span for several months. Lo Manthang is a mesmerizing village, situated amidst the dry landscape yet is embalmed with natural and cultural beauty unfound in any other places.

Ancient Caves

Ancient Caves and Cliff Houses, that is situated in Upper Mustang have been catching the attention of archaeologists from all over the world. Zhong Cave of Upper Mustang is an impressive 5 storied cave structure carved into the cliff. There are around 40 rooms interconnected with narrow passages and stairs. Chungshi Ranjung Cave is another popular cave that can be found in Upper Mustang. This cave is considered a sacred religious site for Buddhist places. These mysterious caves are a must-visit place for anyone visiting Upper Mustang.

Muktinath Temple

It will take around 40 40-minute jeep ride from Kagbeni to reach Muktinath. Muktinath is a sacred religious site for both Hindu and Buddhist people. For Hindu people, Muktinath is the abode of Lord Bishnu. For Tibetan Buddhists, Muktinath is an important place for Dakinis, goddesses known as Sky Dancers, and one of the 24 Tantric places. Many people of Hindu and Buddhist religions from within the country as well as from other countries make pilgrimage tours to Muktinath.

Centuries-old Monasteries and Gompas

Mustang specifically, the Upper Mustang region is believed to have been inhabited by Tibetan people during the 7th -8th centuries, along with that people of this region used to travel to Tibet to trade and buy other necessities. Because of this, Tibetan influence in culture, religion, and tradition is evident. There are monasteries in the Upper Mustang region that were established, a thousand years earlier. Many Rinpoche and religious leaders spread their teachings on these monasteries and gompas found in the Upper Mustang region. Some of the most popular monasteries and gompas found in Upper Mustang are; Niphu Gompa, Garphu Gompa, Luri Gompa, Ghar Gompa, Tsarang Monastery, Thubchen Gompa, Jampa Lhakang Chode Gompa, and Namgyal Gompa, etc. Many Buddhists from Nepal, India, Bhutan, China, Myanmar, and several other countries visit these monasteries and gompas every year to receive blessings and teachings from Rinpoche and religious leaders. While in Upper Mustang Trek one will get a chance to explore these gompas and monasteries found in the Upper Mustang region.

Fascinating Culture, tradition, and historical artifacts

Upper Mustang, though inhabited by a very small population, the vibrant culture and tradition that can be found here never cease to fascinate tourists and visitors. The inhabitants are believed to have migrated from the Tibetan plateau, during the 7th century, because of this Tibetan influence on the culture and tradition of this region. Festivals like Tiji Festival, Yartung Festival, and Losar are major cultural festivals celebrated in this region, which showcase the beautiful cultural tapestry that this region beholds. Apart from fascinating cultures, this region boasts several monuments that display its ancient history mysterious caves, centuries-old monasteries gompas, stone walls constructed to defend enemy soldiers, etc. are historical artifacts that allow visitors to get a short glance at the history of the region, and its people. The cultural tradition and historical artifacts that one will come across exploring Upper Mustang will never fail to impress visitors and tourists.

Breathtaking landscapes

The upper Mustang region lies in a rain shadow area, between the northern edge of the Annapurna Range and the Dhaulagiri Range. The average elevation of the Upper Mustang is also quite high, as it borders with the Tibetan Plateau. Because of its location in a rain shadow area and high elevation, Upper Mustang receives very low precipitation all over the year. The land is arid, and because of these characteristics of the Upper Mustang, it is also called the Mountain desert of Nepal. The geographic landscape of Upper Mustang resembles the Grand Canyon. Kali Gandaki River which originates from glaciers of mostly northern mountain peaks of the Annapurna range has carved these dry land masses and created this unique deep gorge that stretches to Chele Village. It is also believed that, during the ice age when the glaciers were very humongous and played a major role in shaping the gorgeous landscape of Upper Mustang. From Upper Mustang you can get views of panoramic mountain peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range.

Kaligandaki River and Kaligandaki Valley

Kali Gandaki River is a major tributary of one of the major river systems of Nepal, Saptagandaki. Kaligandaki emerges after several small streams emerging from glaciers of the Northern Mountain peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range culminate into one big stream. Kali Gandaki is responsible for the formation of picturesque gorges that can be found in Upper Mustang. Hundreds of thousands of erosions caused by Kala Gandaki have craved gorges that stretch more than 40 km. Kali Gandaki is also famous for “Shaligram” or Ammonite fossil. “Shaligram” according to Hindus is considered a non-andromorphic form of Lord Bishnu. Scientists have hypothesized and used the presence of these Ammonite fossils, mollusks that once dwelled on the ocean floor, to strengthen the continental drift hypothesis. As Tibetan Plateau and Himalayas are believed to have been formed by the merging of Indian and Asian tectonic plates.

As for Kali Gandaki Valley, it is speculated that during the ice age, the glaciers swelled to the lower region of the Mustang and created one of the deepest valleys in the world. Kali Gandaki Valley comprises the lower region of the Mustang district, where green vegetation is abundant, unlike the Upper Mustang. Kali Gandaki is the valley and the civilization that has flourished in it is a mesmerizing sight in itself.

Trekkers should expect impeccable service from Breakfree Adventures

In addition to all the breathtaking scenery, and cultural marvels of people living in the Upper Mustang, you can expect exceptional service from our team, guide, and porter. We will deal with all the things that might bother you during the trip regarding arrangements and permits. Our guide will introduce and familiarize you with all the significant as well as subtle things that might interest you, while our porter will carry all the important belongings you might need during the Upper Mustang Trek.

All in all, anyone looking forward to doing the Upper Mustang Trek can expect to have adventures that they never had and exploration of natural, and cultural wonders unrevealed to the outer world.

Breakfree Adventures is here to make it all possible, making arrangements for your travel and guiding you in our journey through perilous Himalayan terrain. Call or email us at 9851014557/ [email protected] to book and inquire about Upper Mustang Trek.


Is Upper Mustang Trek for me?

Why wouldn’t it be? We have never met a person who regretted doing the Upper Mustang Trek. Considering everything Upper Mustang offers to its visitors, we believe there will never be a person who will dread visiting Upper Mustang. Breathtaking landscapes, amazing mountain views, fascinating culture and tradition unhinged by modern influences, and peace of mind, if you are seeking these things while exploring the secluded region of Nepal where time has stood still then yes, Upper Mustang Trek is for you.

However, if you are seeking to get to the base camp of mountains and reach higher elevations then, this trek might not be your cup of tea. Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek and many other treks that Breakfree Adventures operates can please you.

Call or email us to book and inquire about Upper Mustang Trek and other trekking and touring services Breakfree Adventures provides.


A typical day while on Upper Mustang Trek.

Upon arrival at Jomsom airport from Pokhara, you are already in the heart of the Annapurna region which is the Lower region of Mustang district. From Jomsom, a three-day trek will enter Upper Mustang, where the landscapes start to become more barren, and the lifestyle reflecting the Tibetan Buddhist culture and tradition starts to get prominent.

Each trek day starts early to make the most of the daylight.  Breakfast will be at the lodge/teahouse where you slept in the previous day, then it’s off for the day’s hike. The trekking trail will pass through surrounded by mountains and enter the desert-like country with Buddhist monasteries, Mani walls -Buddhist scriptures carved into stone walls, and prayer flags.

Besides the arid mountains, there are ancient caves to explore in Upper Mustang. The existence of these caves set so far high up in the cliffs is yet to be known. The walled ancient city of Lo-Manthang is mystical to itself with the old palace in Lo Manthang age-old Buddhist monasteries and many other culturally, religiously and historically significant landmarks.

Usually, lunch is en-route trek while trekking from one point to another in a small restaurant opened to cater to travelers, pilgrims, and trekkers.
Dinner is at the lodge/teahouse you will be staying overnight. In the evening, you can meet other trekkers from around the world at the dining area and have a little chat, share your trek experiences, etc. The guide will brief you about the next day’s hike and, the sights you will see after dinner.

Short Itinerary of Upper Mustang Trek

Day 1: Kathmandu Arrival


Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek preparation


Day 3: Kathmandu to Pokhara 6-7 hours (drive) or flight (25 min)


Day 4: Pokhara to Jomsom (flight- 35 min) & trek to Kagbeni (2,800m/9,186ft) (4-5 hrs Hike)


Day 5: Trek Kagbeni to Chele (3,100m/10,170ft) (5-6 hrs Hike)


Day 6: Trek Chele to Ghiling (3,570m/11,712ft) (5-6 hrs Hike)


Day 7: Trek Ghiling to Tsarang/Charang (3,560m/11,679ft) (5-6 hrs Hike)


Day 8: Trek Tsarang to Lo Manthang (3,840m/12,598ft) (5-6 hrs Hike)


Day 9: In Lo-Manthng - Explore around


Day 10: Trek Lo-Manthang to Dhakmar (3,820m/12,532ft) (5-6 hrs Hike)


Day 11: Trek Dhakmar to Shyangmochen (3,850m/12,631ft) (5-6 hrs Hike)


Day 12: Trek Shyangmochen to Chhuksang (2,980m/9,776ft) (5-6 hrs Hike)


Day 13: Trek Chhuksang to Kagbeni 5-6 (hrs Hike)


Day 14: Trek Kagbeni to Jomsom 5-6 hrs walk


Day 15: Fly Jomsom to Pokhara (20 min flight)


Day 16: Pokhara to Kathmandu (Drive or Flight)


Day 17: Airport Transfer for your onward destination


Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary

1

Welcome to the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, the land of pure mysticism and spirituality. The capital, Kathmandu is also known as the “city of temples”, is in itself a historical and cultural chornicle which encapsulates civil evolution of people of the region.

Our representative will welcome you at the airport and chauffer you to the designated Hotel. For early arrivals, after getting fresh if interested you can explore around the city or else you can rest and relax to recover from jetlag. At evening you can go shopping for Trekking gears and other essentials at Thamel.

Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.

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Max Altitude

1,440m/4,724ft
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Accommodation

3-Star Hotel
Trip Note:

At Breakfree Adventures we are always seeking ways to improve travel and trekking experiences of our clients. We want to provide best service in an unbeatable price.

All our hands are on deck to make your travel and trekking in Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan an experience to last lifetime. You are a call/email away from booking a The Best Holiday with us.

The itinerary mentioned and explained above is a standard itinerary. Depending upon your requirements and need we can tweak things here and there to either shorten or lengthen the duration of your Upper Mustang Trek. Please inquire us at: [email protected] or call at +977-9851014557 for more information regarding Upper Mustang Trek.

What is Included/Excluded on Upper Mustang Trek Package.

What is included?

  • Airport pick up/drop by a private vehicle.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu including breakfast as per the itinerary.
  • Kathmandu/Pokhara/Kathmandu transfers by a tourist bus. (Option: Flight or private vehicle)
  • Accommodation in Pokhara including breakfast as per the itinerary.
  • Round trip flight fare from Pokhara – Jomsom – Pokhara.
  • All accommodations during the trek at lodges/Teahouse.
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trek.
  • Experienced Government licensed English speaking trekking guide and necessary porters (1 Porter for 2 trekkers) on the trek.
  • Trekking staff costs like their transportation, food, accommodation, wages, and insurance.
  • Special Mustang trek Permit (US$500 Per Person for 10 Days) For more than 10 days in restricted area, US$50 per day / per person.
  • Annapurna Conservation area (ACAP) entrance permit fee.
  • Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card fees. (Please bring 2 passport size photos for TIMS & Permit)
  • First Aid medical kit (carried by your trek guide)
  • Trekking gears like duffle bag, down jacket, sleeping bag and walking pole. (To be returned after the trek)
  • Farewell dinner in Authentic Nepali Restaurant after the trek completion.
  • All government and local taxes, VAT.

What is excluded?

  • Any Lunch or Dinner in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
  • Nepal visa fee (bring accurate USD cash, US$30 per person for 15 days, and two passport photos)
  • International airfare and travel insurance.
  • Any kinds of drinks or personal expenses (tea/coffee, hot chocolate, boiled water, bottled water, soft drinks, beer, phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, hot shower etc.)
  • Tips for guide and porters.
Have a question?
Note:

We also operated private trips.

Essential Information for Upper Mustang Trek.

Physical Fitness Required for Upper Mustang Trek | Can I do Upper Mustang Trek?

The difficulty of this trek is graded as moderate. The trek is not going to be as easy as a short-day hike. There will be consecutive days of long hikes, but anyone with sound physical health can do it. If you can hike 5-6 hours per day with several stops for lunch and rest then you can do it. Even if you cannot, you can easily get to the point where you can. Simply go on evening and morning walks regularly, hike trails near your location, and follow a healthy diet for 2-3 months and you will build the strength and stamina to successfully do this trek. All in all, Upper Mustang Trek is more focused on exploring the cultural monuments and geographical marvels rather than elevation gain. Though there will be some sections, where you will have to hike steep sections to reach specific viewpoints, Upper Mustang Trek is comparatively easy than high altitude trek. All you need is good and sound physical fitness to complete this trek.


Is Upper Mustang Trek worth the price?

What makes a Trek worth the price? Natural Beauty? Cultural and Traditional Immersion? Stress-Free Travel? Excellent service? Upper Mustang Trek with Breakfree Adventures will provide you with everything that you might associate with a trekking adventure that is worth the price. The natural beauty of Upper Mustang, cultural and traditional immersion with inhabitants of Upper Mustang, stress-free travel, impeccable service you name it, this Upper Mustang Trek provides it all. With Breakfree Adventures you are getting what you are paying for if not more. Our diligent team is putting all our effort into ensuring that every tour and trekking you do with us is worth your money and time. Upper Mustang is no exception and we confidently say that Upper Mustang Trek you will do with Breakfree Adventures is worth the price.


How many days do I need to complete the Upper Mustang Trek? | Custom/Tailor-made Upper Mustang Trek

The total trekking days for Upper Mustang Trek are going to be 9 days and 8 nights, excluding days on the road and a sightseeing tour in Kathmandu. If you have time constraints and want to shorten the duration of the trek then we can omit the sightseeing tour in Kathmandu. Similarly, a flight to and from, Kathmandu-Pokhara is also going to shorten your trek by removing 2 whole days on the road from the itinerary.

Similarly, if you want to extend your stay and explore someplace meticulously then we can make it possible as well. Just familiarize us with your requirements and we will make a bespoke itinerary that will address all your needs and requirements.

Our Breakfree Adventures team has been serving our clients with a bespoke trekking package that addresses every need and requirement of our clients. Our tailor-made trekking packages have allowed our clients to have an optimum experience while trekking through beautiful regions of the Himalayas.

Book your escape to the beautiful Upper Mustang. Explore the natural and cultural wonders, with a relaxed state of mind with our uncompromising service.


What will be the temperature during the trek?

Temperature varies from month to month during Upper Mustang Trek which is:

  • March to May is the best month to trek with temperatures between 16 to 22 °C Celsius.
  • From June to August, the temperature is from 16 to 25°C during the day and nights will be -3 to 0°C.
  • September to November is yet another best time to hike with temperatures 12 to 20°C during the day with nights being colder at 8 to -4 °C.
  • December to February is the winter season during which it will be too cold even the locals come to lower lands shutting down lodges. The trekking trails will be snowbound.

How hard is Upper Mustang Trek?

Upper Mustang Trek falls in the category of a moderate trek done in the Upper Region of the Mustang district. Though it requires better preparedness. You are suggested to regularly go jogging, and exercise about 2-3 months before your trek date to build up your stamina if you are not in good physical fitness level. Walking stairs up and down is also helpful since the hike involves ascending and descending high mountain trails.

No previous trekking experience is required to accomplish the trek and any novice can do it. Even if you do have any past trekking experience, it will be helpful and added advantage. Anyone with a normal fitness level can easily go for this trek since there are enough rest/acclimatization days planned.

With normal physical fitness, a positive attitude, self-confidence, and strong determination, trekking to Upper Mustang Trekking is possible. Those with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood disease should be informed ahead of joining the trek.


Best time to go to Upper Mustang.

Though the trek can be done around the year as per the choices of professional mountaineers or trekkers, the major factor is the weather. The best time to do the Upper Mustang Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons the weather is favorable with clear blue skies providing the most spectacular mountain panorama. In spring the temperature ranges from 20 degrees in the daytime and falls to 5 degrees at night.

June to August is the time when the monsoon hits Nepal but because the Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow area of the Dhaulagiri range there will be less chance of rainfall, making Upper Mustang a preferable destination for trekking during monsoon.

In Autumn, the weather gets colder but it is also the ideal time to trek to Upper Mustang, only you need is warm clothing and good preparedness. As autumn progresses, snowfall makes the Upper Mustang trek much tougher. Nights will be much colder. December to February is the time when it starts to snow. Winter trek to Upper Mustang is also a different hiking experience and as the mist settles down you will get the most beautiful mountain views. In winter, lodges will have few guests, and trails less crowded.


What are the permits required for Upper Mustang Trek?

It has been just over 3 decades since the Upper Mustang Region was opened for Tourists to visit. Because of its proximity to the Tibetan border, the region was demilitarized, and no foreign tourists were allowed to visit, considering the national security of both countries.

From 1992 though, the beauty of the Kingdom of Lo was allowed to savour for tourists. However, foreigners need to acquire an Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit to enter the Upper Mustang Region. Anyone doing Upper Mustang Trek needs an Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit, Trekkers Information Management System Card, and Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit.

The prices for the permits required for Upper Mustang Trek are:

  • Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit – USD 500 for each person for 10 days, and after 10 days USD 50 for each day.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit – USD 20 for each person.
  • Trekking Information Management System – USD 10

Upper Mustang receives few numbers of tourists, because of the expensive entry permit required to explore the region. The permits will not be issued to an individual, every tourist has to be with government government-registered trekking agency for the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit to be issued for the visitor.

Embarking on Upper Mustang Trek with Breakfree Adventures we will acquire all the necessary permits to explore Upper Mustang Trek. You don’t need to think and stress about the permits and other paperwork you might need while in Upper Mustang Trek.


How are the accommodations and meals during the Upper Mustang Trek?

Trekking with Breakfree Adventures, we use the best accommodation facilities that can be found throughout the trail. The lower elevation region of Mustang has more facilitated hotels and lodges with private bathrooms, but as you enter Upper Mustang hotels and lodges will start to become more basic, these lodges are often built based on local architecture and building techniques. In Upper Mustang, you might have to share rooms with other trek members. There will be no compromise on hygiene and cleanliness though.

Meals throughout the trek can differ from place to place. At lower elevations like Kagbeni and Jomsom, you might have options to choose either local and authentic food or Western dishes. But as you leave lower commercialized areas and enter Upper Mustang you will be fed, mostly authentic Thakali dishes made from local produce. The staple meal is Daal-Bhaat, which comprises cooked white rice, lentil soup, chicken curry, stir-fried vegetables, spicy tomato salsa, pickled radish, and salad. You can also get to eat Dhido and Gundruk, the national meal, as well. These heavy dishes will be served during lunch and dinner. Snacks and dishes made from locally grown apples can also be found while on the trek. Here is the list below will provide you with a comprehensive idea of what you are likely to get served during the Upper Mustang Trek:

Breakfast will usually be at your lodge/tea house where you spent the night and the breakfast menu consists of:

  • Spicy Nepali omelet with chili, onion, and tomatoes or piping hot porridge with milk
  • Toast or Tibetan bread with jam or honey
  • Nepali spiced tea, salty Tibetan tea, or coffee

Lunch will be during the stopover en-route trek while you are trekking from one destination to another in the noon. It will be around small but comfortable restaurants or lodges on the way. The menu will be:

  • Dal bhat (rice, curry, lentils) or thukpa (Tibetan noodles)
  • Nepali tea or a soft drink

Dinner is at the lodge where you will be staying overnight and the menu comes around with items like:

  • A variety of soups
  • Thukpa
  • Tibetan bread
  • Momos (packets of vegetables or meat Tibetan style)
  • Fried macaroni with vegetables
  • Pasta
  • Dal Bhat
  • Fried rice
  • Custard
  • Rice pudding
  • Stewed apples or apple pie (in season)

Drinks (Hot and Cold)

  • Tea/ coffee/ Tibetan salted tea
  • Beer/ spirits (Limiting your alcohol consumption is recommended while on the trek to deal with high altitude)

Packing List for Upper Mustang Trek | What should I pack for Upper Mustang Trek?

The packing list depends upon the season you are trekking but it will be colder in the mountains around the year so packing warm clothing is suggested.

Upper body

  • 4 T-shirts including at least 2 full sleeves. Breathable Polyester shirts are preferred.
  • Thermal Top
  • 1 Down Jacket (Essential)
  • 1 Pullover (Hoodie, Sweater or Sweatshirt)
  • Windproof and Waterproof Jacket
  • Sports Bra for women

Lower Body

  • 3 Hiking Pants (Easy to walk on breathable material)
  • Thermal Pant
  • Leggings
  • Shell Pants (for winter and monsoon seasons when chances of snow and rain are high)

Head

  • Trekking Hat/Cap
  • Beanie/Thick woolen cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Ear muffles / Headscarf to cover your ear

Feet and Hands

  • 1 Pair of Hiking Boot (sturdy, all-purpose, weatherproof, and with ankle support)
  • 4-5 Pair of Thick and Thin Socks
  • 1 Pair of Slipper to wear in Lodges and Teahouse.
  • Liner Gloves
  • Quilted/Down Gloves
  • Mittens (for extremely cold seasons only)

Toiletries

  • Toothpaste and Toothbrush
  • Soap and Shampoo
  • Sunscreen and Moisturizer
  • Toilet Paper
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Towel
  • Deodorant (optional)

Equipment

  • Trekking Bag pack 40-70 liters and Rain cover for bags
  • Small Day Pack (in case of potter carrying remaining Bag pack)
  • Hiking Poles
  • Raincoats (essential during monsoon otherwise optional)
  • Head Lamps
  • Thermos and/or Water Bottle

Electronic Devices

  • Camera, Charger, and additional batteries. (optional)
  • Power banks and Battery backup (optional)
  • Cellphone with a functional SIM card and charger
  • Adapter (Nepali pin to usable pin system)
  • Headphones/Earpods (optional)

Including above mentioned goods will ensure that your bag pack is not cumbersome and consists of things that are essential for a good trek.


How to get a tourist visa for Nepal?

All foreigners, besides Indians, require a visa to enter Nepal. Visa is to be had on arrival at the Tribhuvan Global Airport in Kathmandu, and you may increase your visa at the valuable immigration office. Click here to understand more about tourist visas in Nepal.

The visa application would require a passport legitimate for at least 6- months and a passport-length photograph. The present-day visa rate costs USD30 for 15 days, which you need to pay in cash (Please bring the exact change of USD30 per person) on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Citizens of China and the SAARC nations will acquire a loose visa.

A few countries – Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, and Afghanistan- may not get hold of an on-arrival visa. In case you are from those international locations, you should contact your local Nepalese embassy.


Currency exchange USD to Nepali rupees

Nepali Rupees (NPR/Rs)

(USD 1 = NPR/Rs 132) at present (Subject to change)

You can exchange foreign currencies via the nearest banks and valid money exchange counters in Thamel, and also you can alternate small quantities of cash in hotels.

The simplest one hundred and 2000 Indian Rupee notes are legal in Nepal. You may also withdraw cash (in Nepali Rupees only) from one of the many ATMs in Kathmandu and other major cities.

Several ATMs in Kathmandu are open around the clock. In case you are using a foreign card – the most withdrawn quantity is 35,000 Rupees for a 500 Rupees processing fee. If you use Credit Cards provided to you by your banking partner, for exchanging foreign currency, you might get charged a processing fee of approximately four percent or more. Credit cards (Mastercard, Visa & American Express) are accepted at major hotels, shops and restaurants.

The chances of finding a bank along the trekking trail are near null, so we encourage you to exchange foreign currency or withdraw enough money in Kathmandu. With enough Nepali Rupees cash on your hand, you can easily pay for the services and goods almost everywhere.


Can I extend my trip? Adventure tourism activities in Nepal

After completing the trek, you may join other extra adventure activities for one day or more. There are numerous stunning and adventurous places in Nepal. You may spend your extras days in Kathmandu through various approaches, which include, the Everest Mountain flight, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Bhaktapur and Nagarkot day trip, Chitwan Jungle Safaris, 2 nights 3 days Chitwan jungle safari, Everest Base Camp Trek, Trishuli River Rafting before flying back home.

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