Upper Mustang Trek

  •   Trip Grade: Easy
  •  Group size: 2+
  •  Best Seasons: April- May and September and October
  •   Meals: (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  •   Accomodation: Basic camping or guest house
  •   Transportation: included

Overview

Upper mustang Trek is an experience that takes thrill seekers into the hidden world of the Buddhist kingdom of Mustang. This region is closely tied to Tibet and requires a permit to trek into. Come experience the last Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal and explore its remoteness, serenity and topographical diversity with the Alpine Paradise Treks and Expedition.

The treeless landscapes, dry arid winds, views of the perfect mountain peaks like Annapurna, Nilgiri, Dhaulaigir and the Western mountain peaks makes the Upper Mustang trek a must do the trek. The trail follows the ancient salt caravan used by people of Mustang to trade with Tibet. The major attraction of the trek is the Lo Manthang, the walled medieval capital of Upper Mustang. Entering this region is like entering a different world adorned with mani walls, prayer flags, farming animals and beautiful prayer wheels all around. The royal palace, monasteries like the Thugchen Gompa, amchi museum, old caves situated high on the rocks, are major attractions in Lo Manthang. You can hire ponies for local rides and also visit the other locations like Lo Gekar Monastery and Dhakmar.

The itinerary to the Upper Mustang has been carefully formulated by Alpine Paradise Treks and Expedition but you can formulate your own. Come experience this perfect opportunity to witness what rural Nepal is actually made of.

Best Season:

The best season to visit Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is generally dry and clear with comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for trekking and exploring the unique landscape and culture of Upper Mustang.

 

Permits/Regulations:

Permits:

  • Restricted Area Permit: Upper Mustang is a restricted area, and trekkers need to obtain a special permit to enter the region. The permit is issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and can only be obtained through a registered trekking agency or tour operator.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): The Upper Mustang Trek falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area, and trekkers need to obtain an ACAP permit from the ACAP office in Pokhara.

 

Regulations:

  • Stay on designated trails and avoid damaging the environment or disturbing wildlife.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, including dress codes and behavior around religious sites.
  • Carry out all trash and waste and avoid littering the trails or campsites.
  • Follow safe trekking practices and take necessary precautions for high altitude and changing weather conditions.
  • Observe any restrictions on campfires or cooking, especially during dry or windy weather.
  • Obtain necessary permits and approvals for any additional activities, such as fishing or hunting.

Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Day 3: Flight to Pokhara and drive to Tatopani

Day 4: Tatopani to Ghasa (2,100m)

Day 5: Ghasa to Larjung (2,600m)

Day 6: Larjung to Ghorepani (2,850m)

Day 7: Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) and back to Ghorepani.

Day 8: Ghorepani to Jomsom (2,700m)

Day 9: Flight to Pokhara and drive to Kathmandu

Day 10: Departure

REQUEST A CUSTOM ITINERARY:

To create your custom itinerary, please click on thisĀ link. Our experienced travel consultants are ready to help you design a personalized travel experience that matches your unique interests and preferences.

 

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be welcomed by a representative from Alpine Tours and Travels. The representative will transfer you to your hotel, where you can relax and rest after your long journey. In the evening, you will be treated to a welcome dinner, where you will meet your fellow trekkers and enjoy traditional Nepali cuisine.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Today, after breakfast, you will start your guided tour of the cultural and historical sites of Kathmandu. You will visit Pashupatinath Temple, which is one of the most important Hindu temples in the world and is located on the banks of the Bagmati River. You will also visit Swayambhunath Stupa, which is also known as the Monkey Temple, and is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal. Finally, you will visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many temples and palaces.

Day 3: Flight to Pokhara and Drive to Tatopani

Today, you will take a flight to Pokhara, which is the starting point for the Mustang trek. After reaching Pokhara, you will be driven to Tatopani, which is around a 6-hour drive. Tatopani is a small village known for its natural hot springs, and you can soak in the hot springs to relax and unwind after the long drive.

Day 4: Tatopani to Ghasa (2,100m)

Today, your trekking adventure will begin. You will trek from Tatopani to Ghasa, which is located at an altitude of 2,100 meters. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River, and you will walk through small villages and lush forests.

Day 5: Ghasa to Larjung (2,600m)

Today’s trek takes you from Ghasa to Larjung, with beautiful views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. You will cross the Kalopani River and walk through apple orchards and rhododendron forests.

Day 6: Larjung to Ghorepani (2,850m)

Today’s trek takes you to Ghorepani, which is located at an altitude of 2,850 meters. The trail passes through beautiful forests of rhododendron and oak, and you will get stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Day 7: Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) and Back to Ghorepani

Today, you will hike up to Poon Hill to witness the sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Poon Hill is located at an altitude of 3,210 meters and offers breathtaking views of the mountains. After taking in the views, you will return to Ghorepani for breakfast.

Day 8: Ghorepani to Jomsom (2,700m)

Today’s trek takes you to Jomsom, which is the headquarters of the Mustang district. You will walk through pine forests and pass through small villages along the way.

Day 9: Flight to Pokhara and Drive to Kathmandu

This morning, you will take a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Upon reaching Pokhara, you will be driven back to Kathmandu. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the city or doing some last-minute shopping.

Day 10: Departure

Today marks the end of your Mustang trek adventure. After breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight back home. We hope you had an unforgettable experience exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Nepal.

Inclusions:

  • Accommodation (tea house or camping)
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Local transportation (airport transfer, trekking transportation)
  • Trekking guide and porter services
  • Necessary permits and fees

Exclusions:

  • International airfare
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses (alcohol, snacks, souvenirs, etc.)
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Emergency evacuation expenses
  • Any other expenses not mentioned in the inclusions list.

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Essential Equipment:

  • Warm and waterproof clothing
  • Hiking boots
  • Sleeping bag
  • Warm hat and gloves
  • Sun hat and sunglasses
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, towel, etc.)
  • First-aid kit
  • Water bottle and water purification tablets
  • Snacks for the trail

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
  • Accommodation during the trek is usually in basic tea houses or camping.
  1. What kind of food is available during the trek?
  • The tea houses and lodges along the trail serve basic Nepalese and Tibetan food, such as dal bhat, momos, and soups.
  1. Is it necessary to have previous trekking experience to do the Upper Mustang trek?
  • No previous trekking experience is required, but it is helpful to have some physical fitness and to be prepared for a long hike at high altitude.
  1. Is a guide mandatory for the trek?
  • Yes, a licensed guide is mandatory for the Upper Mustang trek.
  1. What is the best time to do the Upper Mustang trek?
  • The best time to do the Upper Mustang trek is from March to June and from September to November, when the weather is stable and the skies are clear.