Trek Details
The Upper Mustang Trek is a fantastic journey through a remote and culturally rich region of Nepal. Located in the Trans-Himalayan area, the Upper Mustang is often referred to as "the Last Forbidden Kingdom" due to its historical isolation from the outside world until 1992, when it was finally opened to foreign trekkers. The region has a unique blend of Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, and beautiful landscapes, including arid desert-like terrain with stunning mountain views.
Here's an outline of what to expect on the trek:
1. The Route
The trek typically starts from Jomsom, which can be reached by flight from Pokhara or by trekking from Beni. From there, you will head north through the villages of Kagbeni, Chele, Sama, and Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang.
The trek involves days of walking through narrow canyons, ancient caves, and cliffside villages, often surrounded by impressive mountain peaks.
2. Culture and History
Upper Mustang has a deep-rooted Tibetan Buddhist culture. The area is dotted with monasteries, chortens (stupas), and prayer flags, and you'll likely get to visit places like Lo Manthang's Chhode Monastery and the King's Palace.
The people in the region are mainly of Tibetan descent, and you’ll experience their unique way of life, with customs and traditions that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.
3. Trekking Difficulty
The trek is moderate to difficult. While it doesn’t have the extreme altitudes of some other treks in Nepal, it still involves walking at elevations between 2,800m (9,186ft) and 4,500m (14,764ft), which can present challenges due to altitude.
The trail is relatively dry and can be windy, particularly in the afternoons, so proper clothing and gear are important.
4. Permits and Regulations
Since Upper Mustang was once a restricted area, trekkers must obtain a special Upper Mustang Permit (which is different from regular trekking permits) and also the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits can only be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.
5. Best Time to Trek
The best seasons to visit Upper Mustang are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer good weather and clearer views, with the trekking routes not being too crowded.
6. Landscape
The landscape is a dramatic mix of desert-like conditions and alpine beauty, with stark cliffs, deep valleys, and unique rock formations. It's a great place for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset when the mountains and surrounding landscape glow.
