Upper Mustang Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime trek that will take you to the forbidden Buddhist Kingdom of Lo Manthang. Its isolation from the outside world has preserved its distinct culture and unexplored natural components.
It is the best time for trekking in Upper Mustang during pre-monsoon / spring (March to May) and post-monsoon / autumn (October to November). The cost will vary depending on the season you choose to trek.
Accommodation
The Upper Mustang Trek is a moderate-level trekking experience that requires adequate physical fitness. This trek takes place at high altitude, so it’s important to acclimatize properly and prepare for the cold temperatures. You should also bring the necessary equipment and supplies.
You will need a professional guide to help you navigate the mountainous landscape of Upper Mustang. This guide will have a government-approved license and undergo extensive training to ensure your safety. This is essential as Upper Mustang is a restricted area and solo trekking is not allowed.
The cost of your package will include transportation to and from Kathmandu, as well as lunch and dinner in Nepal. You will also need to pay for a TIMS card and the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit.
Food
The Upper Mustang Trek is a unique opportunity to experience Nepal’s ancient culture in its natural state. Its geographical isolation has preserved its distinct culture, unexplored natural components, and mystical essence.
The trek offers breathtaking views of fabled villages and ancient monasteries. It also includes an up-close view of the magnificent Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
The best time for the Upper Mustang trek is during the spring and autumn seasons. These seasons avoid the heavy rains of the monsoon, and give you the best views of the mountains. You can also visit the Tiji Festival in Lo-Manthang during this time. The trek also ends at the Kaligandaki River, which is a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Its deep gorge is home to fossils that are considered the incarnation of Vishnu.
Permits
Since Upper Mustang is a restricted area, you need to obtain a special permit before you trek there. This permit costs $500 per person and is valid for ten days. If you want to extend your trip, you must pay an additional $50 each day.
The permits must be obtained through a registered trekking agency like Heaven Himalaya. The agency will also provide you with a professional, government-licensed guide. They will help you avoid any problems while navigating the high altitudes.
During the trek, you will see beautiful Tibetan monasteries and centuries-old palaces. You will also learn about the culture and traditions of this ancient region. Moreover, you will have the opportunity to interact with local mountain tribes. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, you should be physically fit and prepared for the extreme weather conditions.
Porters
If you want to trek in the barren and rural Upper Mustang, which was a demilitarized zone until 1992, there are some requirements you must meet. Unlike other Nepal trekking routes, solo hiking is not permitted in this area, and you must travel in a group of at least two people. Additionally, a special permit must be obtained, and you must trek with a professional government-liscenced guide.
The cost of the Upper Mustang Trek varies depending on season and permits. The spring and autumn seasons are the most popular, but this trek can be enjoyed in winter as well.
The winter trek is more challenging, as the pathways are covered in snow. However, it is a unique and memorable experience. Culturally and geographically, the Upper Mustang region is closely related to Tibet. It was a part of the Tibetan plateau until 1830, and is still home to Lobas, who follow Tibetan traditions.
Tips
The Upper Mustang trek is a moderately challenging hike with steep inclines and declines. You can prepare for this trek by engaging in cardio exercises and adding healthy meals to your diet. You should also bring the necessary clothing and equipment for the trek. You may want to rent equipment and clothing from companies in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Although trekking in the Upper Mustang area can be more expensive than other regions of Nepal, it is worth it for its unique cultural and natural heritage. Visiting this region is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for both local and foreign travelers. The best time to visit Mustang is during the spring and autumn seasons. These two periods offer the most favorable weather and trekking conditions. Moreover, they allow visitors to experience the culture of the mountain people and their way of life.