
Mustang is an ancient Himalayan Kingdom, the former Kingdom of Lo which lies in the north-east of Nepal and bordering with China. It is roughly 80 km long (north-south) and 45 km at it’s widest and is at an elevation of over 2500 m. Mustang is also known as a “Tibet outside the Tibetan border” and hence it fosters the original Tibetan culture, although it is now politically part of Nepal. Upper Mustang consists of two distinct regions: the southern part and the northern where language, culture and traditions are alike to those of the Tibetan people. This area is considered as one of the most interesting and picturesque places in Nepal.
Nepal is a land of Festivals. For the Nepalese, festivals are not merely the annual spectacles, but also are the living part of their rich cultural heritage. Most Nepalese festivals are related to different Hindu and Buddhist gods and goddesses and they are celebrated on such days consecrated for them by religion and tradition. Some of the festivals are of national significance while still others are celebrated only within one or two villages or cities.
Mustang trek is suitable for any walker looking for something a little more challenging and energetic. It does not require that you have any previous trekking or mountaineering experience. Although the terrain is not difficult, some vigorous hiking experience is useful. And it does not require any technical experience; only that you be in good physical condition and be able to hike for 4-6 hours over hilly terrain with a light day pack. Sherpa and sufficient number of porters will carry all your trekking gear and necessary equipment.
The trek to Lo Manthang, a capital of Mustang will lead you through high altitude picturesque desert climbing in and out of the huge sided valley of the Kali Gandaki. In places the gorge which the Kali Gandaki River runs through is the deepest in the world. Lo Manthang itself is a walled city ruled by religious king. However, the monarchy ceased to exist as the Kingdom of Lo in Upper (northern) Mustang on October 7 2008. Untouched by modern civilization as everywhere in the Himalayas, this area provides spectacular mountain scenery highlighted by Dhaulagiri at 8167 meters and Annapurna I at 8091 meters. During the trek you will be surrounded by more than 35 mountains over 6000 meters high. The elevation of the trails rise from 2815 meters to 4270 meters above sea level. This region is full of some of Nepal’s oldest Buddhist Monasteries, ancient and isolated villages with narrow streets and white or colored houses. All of it and more you will see during the trek!
The best season for this trek is February to November.
Days 01: Arrival in Kathmandu, meet assist and transfer to Hotel. Over night at Hotel (MAP)
Days 02: Half day sightseeing at Kathmandu City and preparation day for the Upper mustang permits.Over night at Hotel, (MAP)
Days 03: Early after breakfast drive to Pokhara it takes 6 hours, Over night at Hotel ( MAP)
Days 04: Take breakfast at the hotel and then fly to Jomsom at 06:30AM (20 minutes flight) and rest for couple of hours for acclimatization and then trek to Kagbeni (2810 mtr. 2 hours walking) and over night at Lodge/tent.
Days 05: Trek from Kagbeni to Tshuksang (3210 mtr. 5/6 hours walking) and over night at Lodge/Tent.
Days 06: Trek from Tshuksang to Geling (3500 mtr. 6/7 hours walking) and over night at Lodge/Tent.
Days 07: Trek to Geling to Ghami (3645 mtr. 5/6 hours walking) and over night at Tent/Lodge.
Days 08: Trek from Ghami to Tsarang (3550 mtr. 5/6 hours walking) over night at Lodge/Tent.
Days 09: Trek from Tsarang to Lomanthang (3800 mtr. 5/6 hours walking) over night at Lodge/tent.
Days 10: Rest day and explore the Mustang village over night at lodge/tent.
Days 11: Lomanthang to Ghami (5/6 hours walking) over night at lodge tent.
Days 12: Ghami to Geling (5 hours walking) over night at Lodge/tent.
Days 13: Geling to Tshele (6 hours walking) over night at lodge/tent.
Days 14: Tshele to Kagbeni (5/6 hours walking) over night at lodge/tent.
Days 15: Trek to Jomsom (3 hours walking) over night at Lodge/tent.
Days 16: Early morning fly or drive to Kathmandu. Check in to hotel.