Upper Mustang Trek is a unique and thrilling journey in the central part of the Himalayas. Unlike other mountain journeys in the country, this odyssey to the restricted part of the Himalayas will certainly be an unforgettable experience. You will have the chance to explore the authentic mountain lifestyle, admire the charms of the forbidden kingdom, and soak in the beauty of the tranquil Himalayas and breathtaking arid landscape. The Upper Mustang region was opened for tourism in only 1992.
Lo-Manthang (3,700m), which is the heart of this ‘Forbidden Kingdom’, is the major highlight of this journey. As this region was isolated from the outside world for hundreds of years, the lifestyle, culture and traditions in these parts have been intact since the 14th century. So, this Himalayan endeavor is a culturally enthralling journey that will introduce you to the authentic Himalayan life of the tribes that had very little contact with the outside world.
Similarly, the arid desert-like landscape, high cliffs and fascinating caves carved on the cliffs are other mystical highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek Nepal. The abundant natural beauty of the Annapurna Conservation Area, the diversity of landscape, beautiful villages and stunning mountain views on the backdrop will add further vibrance to your last hidden kingdom of the world exploration.
Highlights of Upper Mustang Trek Nepal
- Exploring one of the most isolated and mystical parts of the Himalayas that was only open for tourism in 1992
- Incredible views of the majestic peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, Chulu Peak, Lamnung Himal, Tukuche and many others
- Beautiful arid landscapes and ancient caves in the cliffs
- Exploring the district headquarters of Mustang, Jomsom Bazaar (2,700m)
- Mystical ancient hidden kingdom of Himalayas, Lo-Manthang (3,700m)
- A journey close to the Tibetan border and insights into the Tibetan lifestyle, culture and traditions
- Exploring the deepest gorge of the world, Kali Gandaki Gorge
- Diverse bio-diversity of the Annapurna Conservation Area (7,629 sq. km.), the largest conservation area of the country
- Soaking in the vibrance of two major tourist destination in Nepal; Kathmandu and Pokhara
Best Time for Trek to Upper Mustang
If you are looking forward to securing the best experience during your Himalayan exploration, we suggest two of the major travel seasons: spring (March- May) and autumn (September- November). As the weather factors are the most favorable during these points, your outdoor journey will go without any hitch.
Both spring and autumn, besides the suitable climate, are also renowned for their breathtaking natural beauty. If you do Upper Mustang Trek Nepal during the spring season, the season of nature, you will be welcomed by a delightful landscape. During this blooming season, the national flower of Nepal, Rhododendrons, and other amazing colorful flowers take over the terrains.
Similarly, there is lush greenery in every corner. The melting snow also feeds the babbling brooks, rivers, and waterfalls. On top of that, if you are a Himalayan flora and fauna enthusiast, it is the most suitable period to admire the amazing diversity.
As for the autumn season, it is more known for the calmness it brings to the weather. During this period of the year, there is a very low probability of the weather going astray. At this point, you will also be able to explore the different perspectives of the Himalayan beauty as the fall landscape takes over. Moreover, autumn is also a core period for festivals and you can expect great cultural immersion during your Himalayan journey.
Who Can Do Upper Mustang Trek Nepal?
Upper Mustang Trek in the central part of the Himalayas is a moderate scale exploration. Due to its low elevation points along the trekking trail, this exciting, restricted area exploration can also be considered as one of the relatively easy adventures.
During this trip, you will not have to deal with significant altitudes above alpine zones (above 4,000 meters). The highest point of this entire trek is the Chogo La Pass (4,320m). Thus, there is not significant altitude gain in the trek.
Similarly, the total Upper Mustang Trek distance is about 130 km (80 miles). So, during the trekking part, you will have to trek for about 5 to 6 hours per day on average. Don’t worry, you will get enough rest period as you move along the trekking trails and there is also an acclimatization day included in the Upper Mustang Trek itinerary.
Overseeing the overall mild scale difficulty aspects of this wonderful Himalayan experience, it can be suitable for anyone who is willing to do it. The trekking trails in this route don’t take you to major elevation jump points.
The overall mountain route is easy to walk on, and there aren’t any sort of technical parts along the road as well. So, even if you are a beginner to the Himalayan journey, you won’t find it hard to deal with the hurdles along the way with a good amount of preparation.
What Makes This Trek So Speical?
Upper Mustang Trek package takes you to the one of the most isolated part in the Himalayan region. This restricted area of the central Himalaya was only opened for tourism in 1992. During the same year, the Annapurna Conservation Area was extended to include this restricted area inside it.
Due to its isolation from the outside world, the art, architecture, culture, and traditions still resemble the 14th-century Himalayan kingdom. Thus, the Trek to Upper Mustang offers you the opportunity to admire the true way of life of the mountain people who had very little contact with the outside world for hundreds of years.
This region, which is geographically part of the Tibetan plateau, is a unique blend of landscapes that makes it feel like you are exploring both Tibet and Nepal in a single trip. Also, due to its restriction and isolation, there are still a lot of parts of the region that are yet to be navigated.
Thus, this journey to the off-beaten part of the central Himalayas will be a distinct and unparalleled experience. You will have the chance to explore the mystical part of the Himalayan region and your every step will unveil the wonders hidden behind the arid landscape.