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Duration
14 Days
Trip Difficulty
Moderate
Max. Altitude
3840 Metres
Group Size
1-25 People
Best Season
Spring (Apr-May), Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Transportation
Private Car, Flight
Accommodation
Hotel, Teahouses
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
The Upper Mustang Trek is a trail of legendary fame among the Nepalese, which provides the trekker with a wonderful opportunity to take a peep in a lost Kingdom. Likewise, the remote area, which is presently known as Upper Mustang, was once a component of the ancient Tibetan kingdom. The rugged terrain, sheer cliffs, arid valleys, and deep canyons of red colour give it an out-of-this-world scenery, which makes it a utopian place to visit for both adventurers and photojournalists.
In contrast to the majority of the other trekking routes in Nepal, the Upper Mustang Trek will be a mixture of natural beauty and cultural heritage, as there are ancient monasteries, ancient villages, and a lifestyle that has not changed significantly over the past several centuries.
It starts with an amazing flight between Pokhara and Jomsom, where one could see great aerial sites of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Thence slowly, trekkers follow the trails up the valleys, full of typical Tibetan-style villages, through fruit orchards, prayer wheels and old chortens. The terrain is getting drier and steeper as we advance into the Lo Manthang area, where the screen peaks reach dizzying heights, giving sweeping views of snows, gorges and plateaus.
Not only is the Upper Mustang Trek aesthetically magnificent, but also culturally fascinating. Trekkers can meet local Mustang people, the Tibetan Buddhism, several centuries-old customs, festivals, and traditions being preserved in this secluded area.
This adventure is suitable for tourists who enjoy moderate and challenging trekking and are willing to visit one of the least-visited regions in Nepal. Carefully selected teahouses along the route offer comfortable rooms and hot food, which guarantee a balance between adventure and comfort.
The Upper Mustang Trek is accessible to this remotest and limited region since seasoned organisers like the Himalayan Pathways offer qualified guides, porters, trekking permits, and logistics to make the trip safe and smooth.
In general, the Upper Mustang Trek is an amazing blend of adventure, culture and nature. It is a once-in-a-lifetime trip for people who would want to explore a very unique side of Nepal where the history, spirituality and dramatic landscapes merge to form an experience that is unforgettable.
You arrive at Pokhara and start your Upper Mustang Trekking adventure with a beautiful drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Our car will pick you up in the morning at your hotel and drive westward on the Prithvi Highway. It is a 200km (124 miles) trip, and takes about 7-8 hours through terraced rice fields, green hills, and village settlements along the riversides. You will cross the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers and have a glimpse of the small villages and local life on the way.
When you arrive in Pokhara (830 m / 2,723 ft), you will have your first view of the Annapurna range mirrored on Phewa Lake. Pokhara is a scenic lakeside town and a center of trekkers to the Himalayas.
Once you have checked in at your hotel, you may relax or have a brief walk along the lakeside to get a feeling of cool mountain air and evening ambience. The day will enable your body to adapt to the beginning of your Upper Mustang Trekking trip before you move further into the mountains.
After breakfast, you then fly a small distance of 20 minutes from Pokhara to Jomsom. During the flight, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges is extremely spectacular with a view of snow-peaked mountains. On reaching Jomsom (2,720 m / 8,924 ft), you meet your trekking crew, finalise your permits and begin trekking northwards towards Kagbeni.
The path is across the broad Kali Gandaki riverbed, and is walking on gravel and sand with precipices on either side. Kagbeni (2,804 m / 9,199 ft), a medieval village at the entrance to Upper Mustang, occurs after 3-4 hours of walking.
In this case, the feeling of the Tibetan-inspired culture of Mustang is provided by narrow alleys, houses of mud-brick, and an old monastery. Kagbeni is the place where your trekking permits are inspected. The historical appeal of the village and these desert-like features give you a real beginning of your Upper Mustang Trekking trip.
Today, you are officially in Upper Mustang. At Kagbeni, the path ascends steadily in the valley of the Kali Gandaki, and through the village of Tangbe, with its white buildings, its orchards of apples and its fields of barley. Colourful chortens will be found to indicate the Tibetan Buddhist heritage in the region. Going up North, you come to Chhusang, where the red cliffs stand up with startling height above the bed of the river.
It is an ideal spot to relax and have lunch with a view of the Nilgiri peak. Lunch is followed by a short, steep ascent across the Kali Gandaki River to Chele (3,050 m / 10,007 ft), an insignificant ridge village, where the views of the surrounding canyons are truly breathtaking.
It makes the landscape drier, and the green fields are substituted with orange and brown colours. Visit the narrow lanes of Chele in the evening or visit the teahouse. The Tibetan effect of dress, prayer flags and architecture is evident. The day presents to you the high deserts of Upper Mustang, which are unique.
Quitting Chele, the trial up the rugged canyon is steep. The morning starts with the steep climb to Taklam La (3,625 m / 11,886 ft), which is marked with prayer flags and offers some amazing vistas of the Kali Gandaki valley. Following a minor descent, you proceed over a hilly terrain and arrive at Dorjori La pass (3,735 m / 12,251 ft), which gives a picturesque view of the cliffs in the area.
Then to Samar village, frequented oftentimes by lunch, with its poplar-trees and quiet atmosphere. The path is lined with green juniper bushes, which would not be expected in the dry terrain of Mustang. Across one more ridge and a small suspension bridge, you reach Syangboche (3475 m / 11401 ft), a traditional tea house village. The swift increase in altitude can temporarily leave you gasping, so relax before bed. Syangboche is another place that leads one further into the high desert land and Tibetan culture of the upper Mustang.
Leaving Syangboche, the path is easy and ascends to the Yamda La pass (3,845 m / 12,615 ft). The scenery is an orange and grey moonscape of hills. There are a handful of distant tea shops and huts of herders on the road. The trail then goes down into the village of Geling (Gheling), with a red-painted monastery and barley fields. Then, again, to Nyi La pass (4,010 m / 13,153 ft), the greatest pass on this road.
In Nyi La, one has a panorama of wind-cut cliffs and valleys, which used to divide the kingdoms of Mustang. You cross the pass to reach Ghami (3,520 m / 11,549 ft), a remote village under the cliffs of red rock. You cross the longest mani wall of Mustang, which is with Buddhist prayer stones, before arrival. Ghami is sociable and conservative, providing a chance to visit a monastery or rest following your 5-6 hour walk. This day is a mixture of both the cultural and the natural beauty of the high desert of Upper Mustang.
The Upper Mustang Trekking path goes from Ghami to Charang (Tsarang). The path bends a little downwards and crosses the Ghami Khola on a suspension bridge, followed up slowly to Charang La pass (3,870 m, 12697 ft). Prayer flags of all colours sway in the wind at the pass, and you can have panoramic views of the Mustang plateau. The trail continues down into Charang valley, where the road cuts through a dry, grey-brown country with here and there a poplar grove which is green.
The second big town of Upper Mustang is called Charang and has approximately 1,000 inhabitants. It has a white dzong (fortress) and a red Gompa, the monastery was covered with complex paintings and statues, and the ruins of the fortress remind about the Mustang history. In the afternoon, you have an opportunity to visit the village, the monastery, or to communicate with locals. Charang is one of the attractions during the Upper Mustang Trekking because of its barren yet beautiful desert scenery that is intersected by historic architecture.
You have finally arrived at the final stop of your Upper Mustang Trekking trip from Charang to Lo Manthang, the fortified city of Mustang. The walk is not very long (4-5 hours), but begins with a stroll out of Charang, then an equally long stroll across plains to Lo La pass (3,950 m / 12,959 ft). The first breathtaking sight visible on the pass is of Lo Manthang and its white walls with fields and snow-white mountains in the distance.
As you drop down into the city (3,840 m / 12,598 ft), you come to a medieval labyrinth of mud-brick lanes. The outings in the afternoon will include the best sights in Lo Manthang; the King’s Palace of the fifteenth century, Thubchen and Jampa Gompas with ancient murals, and the people turning round their prayer wheels or looking after their herds. The fact that the city has unique architecture and is isolated is what makes it one of the most interesting cultural sites in Nepal. The teahouse evening will allow you to get relaxed and imbibe in the ambience.
In Lo Manthang, you will rest one whole day to acclimatise and immerse in the culture. You can also make a side trip in the morning (2-3 hours round trip) to Chhoser to visit its ancient cliff caves. Also, visiting the most popular Jhong Cave, 40 chambers used as a place of meditation and inhabited centuries ago. There are also Niphu and Garphu monasteries, which are worth a visit.
The afternoon is free to venture through the town’s narrow mud brick lanes, Chodey Monastery (a museum), Choprang Monastery or one may just sit back and see the people spinning prayer wheels and herding animals back to Lo Manthang after lunch. In case you come during a festival, you can observe traditional dances and rituals.
Evening is a traditional Mustang dinner under the Himalayan starry heavens. This day is an indication of the rich cultural aspects of Upper Mustang Trekking, and your body is having an opportunity to relax before the trek back.
Any excursion out of the valley of Lo Manthang is followed by the trail to panoramic scenes of the city and the mountains that make up the landscape. We also stop on the route at Ghar Gompa (Lo Gekar), a red-painted monastery of historical and spiritual importance. Further on, we cross the Marang La pass (4 200 m, 13 780 ft), where one can see the Mustang and farther view of the Himalayas.
The trail goes down the pass, along a ridge to Dhakmar village (3,810 m / 12,500 ft). Dhakmar can be distinguished by high red cliffs, which become very bright in the late afternoon rays. Trekking in modern days involves approximately 17 km (10.5 miles) and takes 7-8 hours, thus, one of the longest days. Once there, you will be able to have dinner in one of the teahouses and unwind amid the desolation and isolated desert landscape.
The day begins with a decent from Dhakmar along a thin gully, in the reverse direction back to Ghami. The first rays of the sun shine upon the cliffs in gorgeous colours. The road proceeds, past Ghami Khola and the mani wall heading up to Nyi La pass (4,010 m / 13,153 ft) again, and down to Ghiling (3,570 m / 11,709 ft). Ghiling is an antique village that has two red monasteries and vast fields of barley.
The hike is approximately 14 km (8.7 miles) and takes approximately 6 hours. Strong afternoon wind may be experienced, and therefore, morning trekking is best. Ghiling is another town to look at with its monastery and sky caves. The early night at the teahouse, following a hard day of climbing up and down, assists the preparation for the next day. This scene depicts a combination of natural beauty in the Mustang Trekking area and the life of the traditional village.
We then start our journey back through Upper Mustang, after a breakfast in Ghiling. The route ascends for a short distance over Yamda La and Bhena La (3,800 m / 12,467 ft) before finally descending. Towards the end of the morning, we arrive at Samar village, whose landscape has a greener shade and is more sheltered and fuller of fields. At Samar, the road leads off into a branch gully and at last to the riverbed of the Kali Gandaki at Chhuksang.
In this dry and rocky area, you walk over small rivers and have a view of the special red cliffs of Mustang. The confluence of Narshing Khola and Kali Gandaki is in Chhuksang (3,050 m / 10,007 ft), where there are fertile farmland and impressive cliffs. The night is also warmer and has more oxygen than in the higher nights.
Coming after 6-7 hours, you may wander around in the narrow alleys, go to the teahouse, or observe the cliffs with their sky. This is the last night of the Mustang teahouse, which is ideally suited to the breakfast of the success of your adventure in the Upper Mustang Trek.
The last trekking day starts at Chhuksang and slowly approaches the south to leave Upper Mustang. The route takes Kagbeni and, a minor diversion through Tetang in order to see Muktinath Temple in the distance. Otherwise, the trail proceeds over the Kali Gandaki valley. You arrive in Jharkot, a village that has ancient ruins of fortresses and Tibetan centres of herbal medicine.
Air travel to the confined Upper Mustang region comes to an end, and the path goes down to Kagbeni, followed by a flat and winding path to Jomsom (2,720 m / 8,924 ft). It is approximately 22 km (13.7 miles) in 6-7 hours on this day. The Upper Mustang Trekking loop would be finished on arrival at Jomsom. And here, a hot shower, a cosy bed and maybe a cup of the local apple cider of Marpha. Congratulate the guides and the porters because you managed to travel through one of the most isolated and culturally diverse areas in Nepal.
This early morning flight will make you travel 20 minutes from Jomsom to Pokhara), flying above deep valleys and the Himalayan ranges. Arriving in Pokhara, the air is warmer, and at the lower altitude, it is a relief. The day is free after checking into the hotel, and it could be spent relaxing or doing optional sightseeing.
It can visit Davis Falls, the International Mountain Museum, the Peace Pagoda, or shop and have cafes on Lakeside Road. Spend an evening having a relaxing boat ride at Phewa Lake, and recollect your experience of the Upper Mustang Trek. The contemporary comfort of Pokhara is in stark contrast to the remote tea houses of Mustang, which is an easy way to conclude the adventure.
Our day ends with a drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, 1,400 m (4,593 ft) on the same picturesque trail of rivers, terraced hills, and villages. It also takes 7-8 hours over a distance of 200 km (124 miles). On reaching Kathmandu, our crew will take you to your hotel in Thamel.
Afternoon is at leisure to rest or do final shopping. During the evening, there is a farewell dinner to celebrate the end of your adventure in the Upper Mustang Trekking and share some stories with your guides and crew. It is the culmination of an amazing trip through one of the most isolated and culturally diverse areas of Nepal.
The Upper Mustang Trek is regarded as a moderate trek. It is not technical climbing, although trekkers cover 5-7 hours per day on uneven ground at high altitude. Its summit is 4,200 m (13,780 ft) at Marang La Pass, and the highest overnights are 3500-3840 m (11483-12598 ft) in Lo Manthang. The trails are usually well-defined, and a few steep up-and-downs, such as Taklam La and Nyi La, are in play, yet nothing can be considered dangerous. Challenges are endurance and acclimatisation.
Fit trekkers, including beginners, can finish the Upper Mustang with preparation. Himalayan Pathways guarantees a relaxed rhythm with the rest stops and adequate assistance. The average distance is 10-15km/day, and therefore stamina is required. Moving slowly, staying hydrated and pacing oneself make the trek fun. All in all, the challenge is moderate: not too difficult for most healthy tourists, and the reward is impressive with its fantastic scenery and appealing culture.
Upper Mustang is also in the trans-Himalayan rain shadow; the climate is predominantly dry. The Upper Mustang Trekking is most suitable during spring (March- May) and autumn (September-November). Spring has a pleasant climate with temperatures of 10-20 °C (50-68degF) during the day and 0- 5 °C (32- 41°F) at night, and the Tiji Festival of Lo Manthang is renowned. Other places are monsoon (June- August), but in Upper Mustang, it is mostly dry; day temperatures range 15-25°C (59-77°F); high winds may be experienced, particularly along the Jomsom-Kagbeni.
Autumn is cool, clear, with a daytime temperature of 10-20 °C (50- 68 °F), and nights of -5 °C (23°F). It is cold in winter (December-February) with a daytime high of 5- 10 °C, 41- 50°F, and a nighttime low of less than -10 °C, -14°F, so the trekking is only doable by the experienced adventurers.
Himalayan Pathways suggests spring or autumn as the time of stable weather, clear skies, and cultural experiences. Never leave without a windbreaker, sun protection, and layers, no matter what time of the year it is.
In Upper Mustang Trekking, Himalayan Pathways will organise accommodation in teahouses that serve Nepali, Tibetan, and simple Western food. The set of rice and lentils is called Dal bhat and gives strength to one to work long days. There are other alternatives such as momos, thukpa, noodles, pancakes, and yak cheese. The amount of meat is minimal, vegetarian food is widespread, healthy and safe.
Beverages are milk tea, butter tea, ginger-lemon honey tea, coffee and local apple cider now and then. It is necessary to be hydrated; 3-4 litres of water per day. There is safe drinking water and purification pills that are offered by the Himalayan Pathways. During the times of trekking, snacks such as nuts or chocolate are useful.
Food is plentiful to sustain trekking at high altitude, and the food options offered include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, usually daily. A healthy and comfortable experience of the Upper Mustang Trekking is ensured by eating balanced meals and being hydrated.
Top Mustang Trekking has no more than 4,200 m (13,780 ft) with an overnight stay of less than 4,000 m (13,123 ft), which minimises the risks of severe high altitude. Other less severe symptoms of AMS are headache, fatigue and breathlessness. Himalayan Pathways organises the trek such that it is possible to acclimatise, with one rest day in Lo Manthang at 3,840 m (12,598 ft).
Prevention involves having a slow pace, hydration, carbohydrates, and avoiding alcohol. Guides carry pulse oximeters and first aid kits to check on the trekkers. Severe AMS is uncommon, but there is an option of evacuation on a jeep or a helicopter. In case the symptoms increase, it is necessary to descend.
There is case where trekkers use Diamox only with medical advice. Listening to your body, taking a rest and talking with guides are the key to a safe and pleasant trip on the Upper Mustang Trek.
Physical fitness is important in the case of Upper Mustang Trekking. Training before the trip in the form of cardio training, long walks and leg and core strengthening exercises is recommended by Himalayan Pathways. Hill climbing or climbing steps can also replicate day-to-day elevation changes.
Mental training is also relevant: accept remote living with the bare minimum of facilities and communication. It is also important to pack the appropriate equipment: layered clothing, insulated jackets, warm hats and gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen and trekking poles. Pack a 30-40 L Day pack of essentials; porters carry major luggage. The trek should be hydrated and slept beforehand to help with the acclimatisation.
These preparations would make the Upper Mustang Trekking experience an enjoyable, safe, and memorable experience, and you would get to enjoy the spectacular views and the unique Tibetan culture instead of exhaustion.
In order to hike Upper Mustang, you require a Nepal tourist visa and special permits. The majority of the travellers obtain their visa at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu or on land borders. The visa fee is USD 30, 50 and 125, respectively, on 15 days, 30 days and 90-day basis. You should have a passport of not less than six months.
The places of Upper Mustang are restricted, and therefore Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is compulsory. The standard rate of RAP is USD 500 in the first 10 days and USD 50 per additional day. All the permit arrangements are done by Himalayan Pathways, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP, approximately USD 25), which is mandatory.
They do not allow independent trekking, and you will need to have a licensed guide. Your guide carries the permits on the trek, where they are produced at checkpoints in Kagbeni, Lo Manthang (3840 m, 12598 ft) and other villages. At Himalayan Pathways, you will not need to worry about your paperwork and can simply enjoy the adventure of the Upper Mustang Trek.
The Upper Mustang Trekking is health and safety conscious. Himalayan Pathways will make sure that you are well guided by highly trained first aid and altitude safety-trained guides. Mustang Upper Mustang is 4,200 m / 13,780 ft at Marang La Pass; therefore, altitude sickness may occur; the guides test oxygen levels, rate your ascent, and provide oxygen when necessary. High-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation travel insurance is obligatory.
Special attention must be given to the hygienic food and water: the teahouses are chosen to have quality food, and drinking water is also purified. Individual health requirements, like asthma or allergies, are met by prior notification. The trails are usually secure, but there is also loose gravel and a few rockfalls, which can cause injuries with the assistance of trekking poles and precautions.
Precautions to use during the night are to bring a flashlight and know where to go during a fire in a teahouse. Himalayan Pathways is not an exception, and it also has COVID-19 protocols and emergency communication networks. Under good guidance and training, the Upper Mustang Trekking is a safe and enjoyable experience.
Access to Upper Mustang takes several stages. Transfers from Kathmandu to Pokhara or by short domestic flight via Himalayan Pathways. Himalayan Pathways organises Kathmandu (1,300 m / 4 265 ft) to Pokhara (200km/7-8hours by tourist bus) transfers. Out of Pokhara, a picturesque flight to Jomsom (2,700m/8,858ft) provides excellent scenes of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Flights are in the morning so that there is no strong wind; 15 kg baggage.
In case of cancelled flights, there is also an option of a jeep ride (approximately 9-10 hours). The expedition is primarily a walking one, but pack animals or horses may also be hired. An emergency vehicle can be accessed by a recently constructed road that has been constructed between Jomsom and Lo Manthang, and walking the footpaths is the best experience.
Back travel is also there from Jomsom to Kathmandu to Pokhara. Himalayan Pathways makes sure that all the ground transfer, flight, and luggage arrangements are smooth, and the trekkers can enjoy Upper Mustang without any logistics concerns.
Upper Mustang Trekking will need travel insurance. Himalayan Pathways needs policies of trekking up to 4 500 m / 14 764 ft, emergency medical care and helicopter transport. The highest point of the Upper Mustang is 4,200 m / 13,780 ft; thus, high altitude coverage is essential. Insurance is in case of accidents or illness, theft, as well as trip interruptions.
Evacuation of isolated villages such as Lo Manthang by helicopter may cost 3000-5000 USD, and therefore, insurance is mandatory. Hospital treatment in Pokhara or Kathmandu should also be included in policies. Himalayan Pathways ensures your insurance information is verified before you leave, and maintains a copy, required in the event of an emergency.
Always have your number and emergency contacts in the trek. Travel insurance gives one the freedom of mind, knowing that unexpected occurrences, such as altitude sickness or accidents, are not going to be turned into a financial and logistical nightmare. Under the right cover, the trekkers are able to enjoy the upper Mustang experience safely and without fear.
There are a number of route choices at Upper Mustang Trekking. The typical 14-day itinerary from Jomsom to Lo Manthang (3,840 m / 12,598 ft) can be offered by Himalayan Pathways. Shorter routes (10 days) do not cover all the villages, but include highlights. Longer paths venture to the eastern Mustang with cave monasteries at Luri Gompa, a necessary extension of 2-3 days. Others combine treks of Upper Mustang and Annapurna Circuit, including Thorong La Pass (5,416 m / 17,769 ft), which takes additional fitness and time.
In the Lower Mustang trek, Jomsom, Kagbeni and Muktinath (3,800 m / 12,467 ft) are the main attractions in the experience of 5-7 days. Seasonal routes can also be conducted, such as the Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang, a colorful 3 days event. Himalayan Pathways will be able to organise jeep, horse, or mountain biking activities in case one wants to have alternative means of transport or spend fewer days. These choices allow the trekkers to personalise their Upper Mustang Trekking adventure to suit time, fitness and adventure.
Although the package of the Upper Mustang Trekking offered by Himalayan Pathways includes everything but the trekkers also need to anticipate additional costs. Meals and beverages in Kathmandu (1300m/4265 ft) or Pokhara (820m/2690 ft) are also not included, and they cost approximately $5 -10 per meal at middle-income restaurants.
Drinks and snacks on the trek, in particular in the Upper Mustang villages such as Lo Manthang (3,840m/12,598ft), can be very expensive because of the cost of transport, which is approximately NPR 200-1,000 per person, water, tea or a local beer. Teahouses have charging facilities or Wi-Fi connections, which cost another NPR 200-500 per device or per day.
Guide and porter tips, hot shower and souvenirs are also additional. Trekkers can also incur expenses of $50-200 outside the package on average, according to their habits. Himalayan Pathways recommends that one come with small amounts of Nepali rupees to cover these costs. To be on the safe side, it is always important to plan before you get into the Short Upper Mustang Trek and incur some unexpected expenses.
The national language is Nepali which is common among the locals, the guides, and the teahouse owners. Simple words, such as Namaste (hello) and Dhanyabad (thank you), come in handy. The culture of Mustang villages, such as Lo Manthang (3,840m/12 598ft), is to the extent that the villagers speak Tibetan dialect, Loke, and greet each other with words like Tashi Delek (good luck) or Thuji chhey (thank you).
English is popular in the tourism industry, with an understanding that mainly guides and younger villagers have, though, in smaller villages, the communication might be based on the use of gestures and smiles. It is quite normal that non-verbal communication is used, such as a slight head tilt indicating yes. Himalayan Pathways makes sure that your guide helps overcome the linguistic barriers.
They will educate you to learn some local terms that will help in making the cultural experience richer. Courteous gestures, requests to take pictures and civil treatment can transform your Short Upper Mustang Trek into a culturally immersive experience, which you would never forget.
The preparation is necessary to remain in touch when trekking with Himalayan Pathways in Upper Mustang. The cell phone service is mostly through Nepal Telecom (NTC) in Jomsom (2,720m/8,923ft) and occasional in the remote villages of Upper Mustang like Lo Manthang (3,840m/12,598ft). There are a few teahouses, which have Wi-Fi (costs roughly NPR 500/day), but the connections are slow.
Lodges have a simple electricity supply with solar panels or micro-hydro, and charging of devices is NPR 100-500 per gadget. According to Himalayan Pathways, one should bring a power bank, a universal adapter, spare batteries, and wrap them to prevent cold drainage. Solar charging opportunities in the high villages are expected, but electricity can be a problem after 9 pm.
By accepting substandard connectivity, the trekkers can enjoy the landscapes of Mustang. By planning your power consumption and establishing digital downtime, you will be able to make your Upper Mustang Trek with Himalayan Pathways safe and more comfortable and at the same time allow you to make the necessary communications.
Himalayan Pathways Upper Mustang Trekking is a special adventure that requires one to respect the culture, environment and safety of the locals. Check that you do not walk out without permission or a guide registered and off-trail. Wear simple clothes in villages and monasteries, take off your shoes before going inside the any religious site and walk in clockwise directions around mani walls and stupas.
Do not litter, destroy wildlife or livestock, or overstrain in high places. Do not take risks and dangers with selfies, do not walk on ancient buildings, and do not take photos of military or places of high importance. Respectfully, it is important to bargain during a shopping session and also never assume that luxury is attainable in teahouses. Do not harm animals or insects, and obey the regulations of the drones.
The Himalayan Pathways place safety at the forefront, and they encourage the trekkers to move slowly and listen to the warnings of the altitudes. This don’ts will guarantee that you have a culturally sensitive, environmentally responsible and safe experience in Mustang.
Himalayan Pathways provides trip extensions to the Upper Mustang Trek. When you are in Pokhara (820m/ 2,690ft), you can unwind by Phewa Lake, have spa treatments, paraglide or even short hikes to Sarangkot to see the sunrise over the Annapurna range. Chitwan National Park (200m/656ft) is the place to visit and have 2-3 days of safaris to see Bengal tigers, rhinos, and elephants. Kathmandu Valley sightseeing (1, 300m/ 4, 265ft) will cover places such as Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath, and the Durbar Squares of Patan or Bhaktapur.
Among spiritual pilgrims, Lumbini (150m/492ft), the birthplace of Buddha, is available. The possibilities of adventure are white water rafting or short treks available in the area, such as Ghorepani Poon Hill. Scenic relaxation to places such as Nagarkot (2,175m/7,136ft) or Dhulikhel (1,550m/5,085ft) can be found in the mountain resort towns.
Himalayan Pathways has the opportunity to organise all extensions and secure travel, guiding services, and local knowledge. These extras make your Upper Mustang adventure more complete, with contrasting scenery and cultural richness, other than the expedition itself.
Upper Mustang, which is organised by Himalayan Pathways, is a photographer’s heaven. When taking pictures of landscapes and other cultural places, observe the local culture. Seek consent to take photographs of individuals, particularly in Lo Manthang (3,840m/12,598ft) and in other villages. Never flash in monasteries, e.g., in Thubchen and Jampa Gompas, since this will destroy old murals.
Photography is forbidden in military areas, checkpoints, and limited border areas. The use of drones needs special permissions from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, and Himalayan Pathways recommends discretion, as the borders are sensitive. The sacred objects should be respected; monuments should not be climbed. It is recommended to use the golden hours (early in the morning or late in the afternoon) when the natural light is the most favourable.
Bring extra batteries, memory cards, and electronics use up quite a bit of energy at high altitude. Striking the right balance between photography and presence enables the trekkers to take photographs and have the chance of experiencing the landscapes, monasteries and culture of Mustang responsibly and safely.
Preparation makes a pleasant adventure for first-time trekkers of Upper Mustang crossing the Himalayan Pathways. Begin early, to walk in cooler weather and have fun exploring the village. Drink a lot (3-4 litres per day) and eat regularly, despite a lack of appetite at high altitude. Take your time (Bistaarai, Bistaarai) on steep parts, with the rest step technique of uphill and dawdling to the downhill.
Bring snacks such as energy bars or chocolate, and drink alcohol or caffeine in moderation. Follow your guide’s advice on altitude safety and acclimatisation. Wear in layers in case of cold in the morning and sunny afternoons, and good trekking boots.
Himalayan Pathways secures the backup, advice and local knowledge. These tips will allow beginners to safely explore the Upper Mustang Trek between Kagbeni (2,800m/9,186ft) and Lo Manthang (3,840m/12,598ft) and see some of the most breathtaking views and great Tibet-influenced culture.
The spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the most appropriate seasons due to the clear and stable weather.
Yes, you should get special restricted area permit, and a registered guide is necessary.
Lo Manthang is the highest point at anelevation of 3,840m (12,598ft).
It is a moderate trek that includes long hiking days and a bit of high exposure.
Yes, meals are included during the trail except the Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Water is to be filtered with the help of filters, pills, or boiling; the Himalayan Pathways can also give instructions.
Teahouses have simple rooms with beds and blankets; hot showers are available at an additional fee in certain villages.
Mobile signal is only available in Jomsom, Kagbeni and Lo Manthang. Wi-Fi is provided at a small fee in a few teahouses.
It is necessary to have warm clothes, hiking shoes, sun protection, personal drugs, and a power bank.
Guides and porters expect to receive tips; Himalayan Pathways gives advice on quantities.
Yes, optional tours are Chitwan National Park, Pokhara Adventures, Kathmandu sightseeing, or any other treks.
No, drones must have special permits from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal and local authorities.
Yes, under perfect acclimatization, pacing and Himalayan Pathways directions.
The Nepali and Tibetan dialect (Loke) is popular; English is easily known in teahouses and with guides.
There is a chance of mild altitude sickness; the presence of pacing, hydration, and adherence to the guidance of the guide reduces the risks.
