Escape Himalaya - Adventure Tours and Trekking in Nepal more...
Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow zone of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayas. Because of this, the Mustang region of Nepal receives relatively less rainfall resulting in the arid terrain of the area. Upper Mustang Trek takes you trudging through the Tibetan uplands because of its similarity in topography. The land of the Upper Mustang is treeless, with little to no vegetation or foliage. You will witness the unique cultures and traditions of the Thakali people residing along the dainty lower villages.
Moreover, the day-to-day life and way of living in the remote isolation of the region are fascinating to experience. The secluded acreages are adorned with Trans-Himalayas and ornamented beautifully by the Tibetan Buddhist inhabitants. It is a marvelous journey brimming with distinctive aspects of the Mustang. At Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang, you can see intricately carved city walls and a lavishly decorated four-storied palace. The Upper Mustang Trek presents a trekking journey that is synergic with its rich history.
Beginning the journey from Jomsom, you would be trekking to the destination of Kagbeni. The trail is pleasant and offers magnificent views of the mountains like Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, and others. Leaving the Kali Gandaki Valley, you will traverse through rocky channels to Chele. Afterward, you will experience the juxtaposition of changing lifestyles from Manangi to Tibetan traditions. Trudging along the Ghami La Pass, you will also walk along to Ghami, the third-largest town in Mustang. Likewise, you will pass along the longest Mani wall, roughly a thousand meters long wall with intricate prayer carvings.
The Upper Mustang Trek also allows you to visit the Lo-Gekar Monastery, the oldest Buddhist temple of Mustang. It is the birthplace of Tibetan Buddhism in the Himalayas and is contemporary with Samye, the first monastery in Tibet. Trudging along the umber, terra firma of the region, you would be settling in Lo Manthang, where you will get to explore the area around Namgyal Monastery and Tingkhar. Hiking to the magnificent natural gorge of the Chola Pass, set at an elevation of 4,210 meters, you would reach the maximum point during the Upper Mustang Trek. To access Upper Mustang Trek, you must get a special entry permit from the Government of Nepal. The region is restricted since the holy and historical monuments and the geographical assortment are protected.
Escape Himalaya provides an excellent rendering of services and ensures that customers get the optimal context on their trekking journeys. The Upper Mustang Trek is a special package incorporating the all-encompassing natural and cultural quintessence of the Mustang Region. So join us in this magical adventure where you can experience the aesthetically pleasing magnificence of the mountains and alluring natural winsomeness to have a closer look at the culture, lifestyle, and traditions of the people in the Upper Mustang with us! We also have alternatives for trekking in the Mustang region with our Lower Mustang Trek. You can also opt for a customized itinerary as well to suit your needs and requirements should you wish to do so.
The Upper Mustang Trek offers an unparalleled blend of cultural richness, historical intrigue, and stunning natural beauty. Nestled in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, this trek provides a unique landscape of arid deserts, dramatic rock formations, and ancient caves, distinct from the lush greenery typically associated with Nepal. The region, heavily influenced by Tibetan culture, boasts ancient monasteries, traditional villages, and the historic walled city of Lo Manthang, once the capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang. Trekkers are immersed in a lifestyle largely untouched by modernity, offering a rare glimpse into an ancient way of life. The trek's remote and less-traveled paths ensure a serene and authentic experience, free from the crowds of more popular routes. The challenging terrain, high passes, and deep gorges add a sense of adventure, attracting seasoned trekkers seeking new thrills. The region's status as a restricted area requiring a special permit helps preserve its unique environment and culture. Additionally, the rain shadow climate makes it an ideal destination
The Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang is a captivating three-day event held in the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang. Celebrated in May, it symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism. The festival commemorates the myth of a deity named Dorje Jono who fought against his demon father to save the Kingdom of Mustang from destruction.
During Tiji, the streets of Lo Manthang come alive with vibrant processions and traditional music. Monks dressed in elaborate costumes and masks perform ritual dances known as "cham," reenacting the mythic battle with intricate movements and chants. The atmosphere is charged with spiritual energy as locals and visitors gather to witness these sacred performances.
The festival is not only a religious event but also a cultural celebration that brings the community together. Families reunite, homes are decorated, and traditional feasts are prepared. For trekkers, experiencing the Tiji Festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Upper Mustang. The blend of historical significance, religious fervor, and communal joy makes Tiji a highlight for those seeking a deeper connection with this mystical region.
Upper Mustang Jeep drive tours offer a blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and comfort, making it an excellent option for those who want to explore this mystical region without the demands of trekking. Whether you're interested in the stunning landscapes, historical sites, or rich cultural heritage, a jeep tour provides an unforgettable experience in one of Nepal's most intriguing destinations.
The culture of Upper Mustang is a captivating blend of Tibetan Buddhist traditions and ancient customs, preserved through centuries of isolation. Dominated by Tibetan Buddhism, the region is home to ancient monasteries like Thubchen Gompa and Chhoser Cave, where monks uphold traditional practices. Festivals such as the Tiji Festival, celebrated with ritual dances and ceremonies in Lo Manthang, highlight the region’s vibrant cultural heritage. The architecture, characterized by mud-brick buildings and flat-roofed houses, reflects traditional Tibetan influences. Local arts, including Thangka paintings and intricate handicrafts, play a significant role in daily life. The economy is largely agricultural, with barley, buckwheat, and potatoes as staple crops, and yak herding is common. Community life revolves around kinship ties and village solidarity, with monasteries serving as cultural and spiritual hubs. Upper Mustang’s unique culture offers visitors a rare glimpse into a world where ancient traditions and spirituality thrive.
Preparing for the Upper Mustang Trek is essential to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. This trek takes you through varied landscapes, challenging terrains, and high altitudes, demanding both physical and mental preparation. Training for the trek should begin at least two to five months in advance, focusing on building cardiovascular endurance through running, swimming, or cycling. Strength training for your legs, core, and shoulders is also important, along with flexibility exercises like yoga or stretching to prevent injuries. Practice hiking on uneven terrain with a loaded backpack to simulate actual trekking conditions.
If the provided schedule isn't suitable for you, we are able to create personalized travel arrangements according to your preferences and requirements.
Planning an Upper Mustang Trek? Here are the Top 10 key things to know for an incredible adventure:
Bonus Tip: Capture the memories! Take photos and videos to document your incredible journey.
Apart from the major costs of your mustang package, you will need to budget for certain additional fees. Here's a simple plan to help you budget while still having a good time:
Trail Necessities:
Food & Treats:
Staying Connected:
Remember that prices might vary, so use these estimates as a guideline.
Consider your spending patterns for drinks, snacks, and gifts.
Note: Carry Nepali Rupees for incidental expenses. While some tea shops accept US dollars, possessing the local currency eliminates conversion problems and ensures you have the correct amounts for smaller transactions.
To trek in Upper Mustang, you need special permits due to its status as a restricted area. The region's protected status helps preserve its unique culture and environment. Here's what you need to know about the permits:
Restricted Area Permit (RAP):
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
Choose a Registered Trekking Agency:
Escape Himalaya Trek well-organized Upper Mustang treks, offering stunning views of the Himalayan landscapes and unique Tibetan culture. Their experienced guides ensure a safe and memorable journey through this restricted region, providing insightful cultural experiences and breathtaking vistas.
