The Upper Mustang is a trans-Himalayan section of the Himalayas that runs north-south off the upper corner of the famous Annapurna Circuit. With a very different geography and climate from the rest of the Himalayas in Nepal, the Upper Mustang offers a distinct trekking experience and arid landscapes.
The Upper Mustang has always been a separate state in Nepal with its own king and monarchical system. Even when the monarchy was abolished in Nepal in 2008, the Upper Mustang kept its legacy. Lo Manthang (3,840 m/12,598 ft) is the capital of Upper Mustang, and we now call it the last forbidden kingdom.
The Upper Mustang was forbidden for a very long time. The entire region was isolated from the rest of the world for decades and evolved in its own rich cultural cocoon. In 1992, the restriction to enter the region was lifted, and foreign tourists were allowed to explore the region under strict regulations.
Still today, trekkers need to get a restricted area permit and follow the special rules to trek in the Upper Mustang. The Upper Mustang trekking route is also close to the Tibetan border, so the restrictions were made to maintain border security as well as preserve the ancient cultural heritage of the locals and the fragile ecosystem.
What to expect during the Upper Mustang trek?
If you have explored trekking routes like Annapurna Base Camp, Langtang Valley, EBC, Manaslu Circuit, etc, you will not believe your eyes during the Upper Mustang trek. It is totally different. Instead of lush forests, verdant valleys, waterfalls, rivers, and meadows, you will witness barren hills, canyons, unique rocks, sky caves, and sand deserts.
Buddhism lies at the core of Upper Mustang. With proximity to Tibet, the locals are hugely influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, and their dialect, beliefs, and practices somewhat resemble Tibetans. On the Upper Mustang trek, you will get to explore many monasteries, including the Namgyal Gompa and Ghar Gompa.
The Ghar Gompa is a 1,200-year-old monastery. Likewise, the trekking route is dotted with stupas, chortens, mani walls, prayer wheels, and prayer flags. The very simple lifestyle of the locals will catch your attention, and their warm hospitality will win your heart. You will visit the Amchi Museum and School, where you can see the traditional medicine practices and teachings.
Trekking to the Upper Mustang is considered a magical journey back in time, where it seems to stop, and everything is as it is. This 16 days journey in the driest part of Nepal will offer you an unparalleled expedition full of adventure, breathtaking views, amazement, and a content heart. Mountains like Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft) are seen during the Upper Mustang trek.
Is Upper Mustang trekking right for you?
Upper Mustang is a difficult trek because of the climate, location, and limited facilities. However, you can do this trek as a beginner trekker if you are well-prepared and physically fit. We also have an Upper Mustang jeep tour package for travelers who do not like trekking but wish to explore this beautiful region.
As the Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow area, you can do this trek even in the summer/monsoon season. Trekking in winter is also possible, but you have to bear the extreme cold. So, overall, you can do the Upper Mustang trekking throughout the year.
Our Upper Mustang trek package begins from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, but you can also do this trek from Pokhara. We have the best Upper Mustang trek cost, with all the major expenses for the journey covered in our package cost. Our bookings are open for the Upper Mustang trek 2024/20245.
*Note: You can customize the Upper Mustang trek itinerary with us. Similarly, feel free to talk to our team to design the package as per your requirements and budget. We have a very flexible Upper Mustang trek price.