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Explore the hidden civilization of the walled city, Lo Mathang, on our Upper Mustang trek for 18 days. Join us on an adventurous trek in Nepal and discover ancient Tibetan Buddhism cultural heritage, trans-Himalayan landscapes, sky caves, old monasteries, and an offbeat trail.
Upper Mustang is one of the less visited restricted trekking regions. This once-forbidden and secluded region flourished in its own unique culture and traditions. With its moderate difficulty level, the trek offers a remarkable opportunity to explore a lesser-known part of Nepal.
As you delve deeper into the heart of Mustang, you'll be greeted by the warm hospitality of the local people, who have a deep-rooted connection to their land and unwavering pride in their heritage. Interacting with the locals provides a valuable opportunity to gain insights into their daily lives, customs, and traditional practices.
The Upper Mustang trek is not just a physical journey but a captivating immersion into a world shrouded in mystique and ancient traditions. It offers a unique perspective on Nepal's diverse landscape and cultural heritage, taking you off the beaten path and into the hidden gem that is Mustang.
Some of the main attractions of the upper Mustang trek are Namgyal Gompa, Tingkhar village, King’s palace, Amchi museum, Ghar Gompa, unique rock formations, Kali Gandaki gorge, white-washed houses, etc.
Mountain Views & Culture
The upper Mustang region lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, resulting in a distinctive arid landscape and stunning views of snow-capped peaks. While the trek itself does not take you to the base of any major Himalayan peaks, the panoramic mountain vistas throughout the journey are breathtaking.
During the trek, you will see mountains like Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Annapurna I (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Tukuche Peak (6,920 m/22,703 ft), etc. These towering peaks create a dramatic backdrop against the barren landscapes, offering memorable photo opportunities and stunning sceneries throughout the trek.
The Upper Mustang region is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and preservation of Tibetan Buddhist traditions. The walled city of Lo Manthang is the cultural heart of the Upper Mustang region. This ancient city is home to the historic King's Palace, monasteries, and intricately carved stone walls. Exploring the narrow alleys and interacting with the local people provides a glimpse into the unique Tibetan-influenced culture and way of life.
Along the trekking route, you'll come across several monasteries and gompas (Buddhist shrines) that are significant religious and cultural sites. Some notable monasteries include Tashi Kabum and Chhoser Cave Monastery. Along the trek, you'll also explore ancient sky caves that were once used by Buddhist monks as meditation retreats. These caves have historical significance and add to the mystical charm of the region.
Trek difficulty for beginner trekkers
The Upper Mustang trek is considered a moderately challenging trek, suitable for experienced trekkers as well as those with a good level of physical fitness and stamina. The Upper Mustang trek involves trekking through high-altitude terrain, ranging from 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) in Kagbeni to the maximum altitude of 3,840 meters (12,598 feet) in Lo Manthang.
While the maximum altitude is relatively lower compared to other popular treks in Nepal, the trek still poses challenges due to the remoteness and ruggedness of the region. Our itinerary takes 18 days to complete. Each day involves 5 to 7 hours of walking on mountain trails, with some steep ascents and descents. The terrain during the Upper Mustang trek varies from barren landscapes to green valleys, with a mix of rocky trails, riverbeds, mountain passes, and occasional sections of loose gravel.
Altitude sickness
Every day during the upper Mustang trek, there will be a significant change in altitude, ranging from 500 meters to 700 meters. These rapid altitude gains can increase the risk of altitude sickness, a condition that occurs when the body doesn't acclimatize properly to higher elevations. So, it is essential to understand the symptoms of altitude sickness and take preventive measures to ensure a safe trekking experience. Here's what you need to know:
Symptoms of altitude sickness:
Headache
Fatigue
Nausea and loss of appetite
Dizziness and lightheadedness
Shortness of breath:
Insomnia
Preventive measures for altitude sickness:
Acclimatization: Our Upper Mustang trek itinerary includes adequate rest days to help you acclimate and minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
Stay hydrated throughout the trek by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages as they can contribute to dehydration.
Maintain a slow and steady pace while trekking. Avoid overexertion and give your body time to adapt to the changing altitude.
Eat nutritious meals to maintain your energy levels.
Consult a healthcare professional before your trekking and inquire about medications to prevent altitude sickness.
Pay attention to your body's signals and communicate with your trekking guide about any symptoms you may be experiencing.
Preparation
Undertaking, basic physical training is crucial to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trekking experience. Engage in activities like hiking, cycling, swimming, or running to improve your stamina and overall fitness level. Regular long walks are particularly beneficial in building endurance and forming a habit of walking for extended periods.
Likewise, as you will be trekking in a remote region, it's crucial to understand that services are limited and need to be paid for. The right mindset and determination play a vital role in shaping your overall experience during the Upper Mustang trek. Maintaining a positive attitude, being open to new experiences, and staying motivated will enhance your trekking journey.
Booking
You can place your booking for the upper Mustang Trek Nepal directly through our site. And our secure payment system will let you pay for the trek without any worries. For any further assistance, contact us at [email protected] or +977 1 4250615 (Nepal) /+358 452062555 (Finland).
Check out these other adventurous packages- Upper Dolpo Trek, Nar Phu Valley Trek, Langtang Gosaikunda Trek, Tilicho Lake Trek, and Gokyo Lake Trek.
