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Upper Mustang Trek-25 Days itinerary

Journey to the Hidden Wonders of the Himalayas

Upper Mustang Trek Overview

The Upper Mustang Trek, which takes trekkers through the famous Annapurna Circuit , is a less traveled yet beautifully challenging route. Below 5000 meters, Upper Mustang, sometimes referred to as “The Forbidden Kingdom,” is a wonderful place to go trekking. This magnificent location, which is located at an elevation of 3,840 meters in Nepal’s Mustang province, offers amazing views of the Annapurna, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and several other mountains.

The Upper Mustang and the Annapurna Range routes were given official approval in 1992 and 1977, respectively. Since then, a large number of adventurous travelers have traveled the Annapurna Circuit-Upper Mustang trail, taking in the pristine natural beauty and diverse Hindu-Buddhist culture along the way.

  • Upper Mustang Trek 25 Days Itinerary

    The Unseen Side
    of the Himalayas

  • Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal

    Experience the Preserved Civilization of Mustang

The walk effectively unveils the hidden beauty of Manang: The Land Beyond the Mountains, which includes Thorung Phedi, Muktinath Temple, Lo Manthang Municipality (3730m) in northwest Mustang, and a number of monasteries, including Chode Gompa and Choprang Gompa, The Royal Palace, and The Monastic Museum.

Upper Mustang is historically rich in Tibetan culture, language, caverns, and rock art.As it is also known as “The Kingdom of Lo” to this day, the location serves as a historical representation of a legendary monarch, Lo, and some significant events during his reign in the 8th century. The Forbidden Kingdom was a restricted area until 1992, making it one of the most secure locations on earth.

Upper Mustang Trek Route Overview

The walk passes through Kagbeni, the entrance of Upper Mustang, and continues across a desolate environment under the Dhaulagiri massif’s rain shadow to Lo-Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Lo. You can explore caves, rock art, monasteries, and gompas to discover more about the local culture. This thrilling journey definitely includes panoramic vistas of the Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other mountains!

The King’s palace, Namgyal Gompa, and Tingkhar, the final major settlement in the region’s northwest, are all worth seeing while in Lo Manthang to have a deeper grasp of the local culture.Additionally, there is a museum and school run by an amchi (traditional Tibetan doctor), where travelers can learn about this old medical technique and how it has been modified to address modern concerns.

Gyakar, which is home to the famous Gompa, is a few hours’ walk from Lo Manthang. The more than 1,200-year-old Ghar Gompa is dedicated to Guru Rinpoche, who was visiting these regions at the time.The Gompa is well-known for its cave paintings and for the belief that wishes made here are said to come true. Therefore, make a wish at the Ghar Gompa and intend to come back again soon! The hike is rather difficult due to the dry air and quite high altitude (3,000 to 3,800 meters).

While individuals who were born at this altitude have no trouble moving quickly, tourists will trek more slowly to minimize any complications caused by the altitude. Walking requires 5 to 7 hours a day on average, and some paths are very windy and dry.

Best Season For Upper Mustang Trek

The best seasons for Upper Mustang Trek are fall (September-November) and spring (March-April), as the weather is unusually clear and dry during these seasons. Anyone who wants to enjoy the fully bloomed rhododendrons and witness the magnificent Tibetan festival Tiji can make their trekking plans for late February or early March.

Trek Difficulty & Required Physical Fitness

Despite the fact that it is a small trip, strong fitness is still required. especially because you’ll be walking at a high altitude. You can prepare for your trek at home by doing cardio workouts and walking.

Trip Highlights

  • Explore ancient kingdom of Lo Manthang
  • Witness the dry desert-like landscapes with spires and cliffs.
  • Because the location is under the rain shadow, you can walk about freely without fear of getting wet.
  • Explore unique caverns, historic monasteries, Gumbas, and Chortens.
  • Catch a live glance of Tibetan impact on neighborhood’s daily activities and culture.
  • Breathtaking views of the mountain ranges Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and others
  • Feel the Tibetans’ spirituality as you watchpeople and monks interact with one another with prayer flags.

Upper Mustang Trek Permits

The Upper Mustang path passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, thus visitors must get an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit. Additionally, Nepal has designated Upper Mustang as a restricted region in order to protect the ancient religion and border security as it borders Tibet.

Non-Nepalese should get the following permissions in order to trek across the Upper Mustang:

  • Foreign nationals are granted an Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP) worth USD 500 per person for the first 10 days and USD 50 per person per day after that.
  • For overseas nationals, an approximate USD 30 ACAP permit is required.
  • ACAP permits are NPR 200 each for residents of SAARC nations.

  • The permits will be examined at the Upper Mustang Chele checkpoint. You may also get in touch with Rolwaling Trek to take care of your hiking permits.

Nearby Areas

Shinta Mani Mustang

Royal Mustang Resort

Places to Visit in Mustang

  • Jomsom
  • Kagbeni
  • Muktinath Temple
  • Lo Manthang
  • Sky caves in Nepal
  • Monastery and nunnery

Upper Mustang Trek 25 Days Itinerary

Day 1-2 : Arrival In Kathmandu And Preparation For The Trek

One of our employees will greet you and guide you to the reserved hotel as soon as you land at Tribhuvan International Airport. We will start our formal procedure, which includes getting a travel permit, packing our bags, shopping, completing our paperwork, and receiving a briefing on our walk, on the second day. You will also be able to meet your fellow travelers.

Day 3 : Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760m)

Our journey will start with a long trip over the Prithivi Highway to Besi Sahar, the capital of Lamjung. Despite a rough trip, you will appreciate the views of the river Trishuli, Marsyangdi, Manakamana Cable car, and several hilly communities. We will refresh ourselves after reaching Besi Sahar and then explore Lamjung, which is a bustling business hub.

Day 4. Drive From Besisahar (760m) to Chame (2670m)

After spending a pleasant night in BesiSahar, we will travel 66 kilometers in a vehicle to reach Chame. We can save a few days of our walk by taking a four-hour jeep ride to Chame, Manang, which is how long it typically takes. On the fourth day, we’ll stay in Chame and get ready for the trek.

Day 5. Trek to Pisang (3190m) 4-5 hours trek

Our trek begins on the fifth day, when we enter The Valley of Manang, a naturally gifted heaven. Following an early breakfast, we will begin ascending through the river Marsyandi, which flows across the valley. We will cross Bhratang (2950m) and Dhukur Pokhari (3200m) as we continue on the path to Pisang. After walking a rewarding path, we’ll stay in Pisang

Day 6-7. Trek to Manang (3540m) and Acclimatize in Manang

We will begin The Manang Valley trek after a delicious breakfast, as per our trekking itinerary. Due to the relatively easy journey, the lower trails will help to energize. You will get the chance to stop at the magnificent Ney Guru Sang cave in the south and the 500-year-old ancient Braga Gompa along the route. We will arrive in Manang hamlet after descending a difficult route, where we will spend the night in a reserved hotel.

A magnificent dawn will wake you up in your bed the next morning. The magnificent view of the golden mountains will amaze you. First, we’ll visit Chongar Viewpoint and the magnificent glacial lake Gangapurna. Following our brief visit to the viewpoint, we will pay a quick visit to a number of exploration sites while trying to observe as many ecotourism best practices as we can.

Day 8. Trek to Letdar (4250m), 4-5 hours trek

On the eighth day, after acclimatizing at Manang Valley and remembering some memorable sites, we will continue on to Letdar. As we continue to ascend out of the valley, the vegetation begins to turn into bushes. We will arrive at Chure Letdar (4250m), where we will spend the night after a five-hour hike.

Day 9. Trek to Thorung Phedi (4420m), 3-4 hours trek

On this day, we will go to Thorung Phedi (4420m), the highest point of our whole trek. We will climb along the east bank of the Jarkang River before beginning to descend. On the route, we could mysteriously run upon Blue Sheep and Snow Leopard when crossing a wooden bridge. We will eventually arrive at Thorung Phedi, a gateway to Muktinath (3800m) and the Thorung La Pass (5416m), after three hours of hiking.

Day 10. Trek to Muktinath (3800m), 7-8 hours trek

As soon as we leave Thorung Phedi, the route becomes difficult, climbing steeply up rocky slopes to Thorung La Pass (5416m). However, as we make our way down to Muktinath (3800m), we will pass through some breathtaking fields. We will spend the night in Muktinath after a seven-hour hike.

Day 11. Drive to Kagbeni(2810m) and trek to Chele (3050m)

We’ll rise early in the morning and go to the holy Muktinath shrines. After being spiritually enlightened, we will have breakfast and drive to Kagbeni (2810m), which was named after a medieval town and is also known as “The Gateway to Upper Mustang.” We will regain our energy with a delicious lunch in Kagbeni before beginning our hike to Chele (3050m), where we will see an impressive treeless landscape.

Day 12. Chele to Syangboche (3475m), 6-7 hours trek

After Chele, the trip becomes more difficult since there are two high crossings to cross: Talkam La Pass (3624m) and Dajori La Pass (3735m). You will be treated to some stunning views of Tilicho, Yakawa Kang, and Damodar Danda as you go via these two passes. We will follow the riverbed as we descend from the Dajori Pass, via Samar Village, and stay in Syanboche.

Day 13. Syangboche to Ghami(3520m), 5-6 hours trek

The thirteenth day will begin with an early rise as we go to Ghami through the Yamada La Pass (3850m). We will travel through some well-known woodlands as our walk begins to ascend before arriving at Nyi travel (4010m). We will gradually descend to Ghami, one of the biggest communities in the Upper Mustang area, once we have crossed the pass’s summit, where we will spend the night.

Day 14-15. Ghami to Tsarang(3620m) to Lo manthang (3730m)

After an energizing breakfast, the trek will resume in the early morning. After passing a suspension bridge over the Ghami river, we will begin descending to the valley over a track that is quite difficult. The route will lead you to the Tsarang Pass (3870m) and then drop to Tsarang town, which is situated at the top of a large canyon, as soon as you pass the bridge in the course of our journey. The settlement is adorned with an old monastery, where we will spend the night.

We’ll enjoy a peaceful trek on the fifteenth day because we’ll be close to Lo Manthang. The walled countryside of Lo Manthang will be seen below as we walk through the Lo La walk (3950m). You will undoubtedly be mesmerized by the spectacular sight of Bhrikuti as you make your way down to Lo Manthang 3730m. We’ll freshen up and prepare for the big day once we reach Lo Manthang village.

Day 16-18. Celebration of Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang

After an amazing night, we will begin our exploration of Lo Manthang, a magnificent village with rich history and culture that dates back to ancient times, and join the locals in celebrating the Tiji festival, which begins in the middle of May and lasts for three days each year. The Tibetan phrase “Tempa Chirim,” which means “World Peace,” is shortened to “Tiji.” The event commemorates a legend from old Tibetan culture about a son who was compelled to preserve the Mustang kingdom from oblivion. The event also celebrates Dorjee Sonnu, Lord Buddha’s avatar, who triumphed against Mam Tam Ru, a demonic creature who ravaged mankind and triggered droughts.

Throughout the festival, the monks from Cheodhe Monastery dance in a ritualistic manner. Monks conduct a dance called “Tsa Chham” on the first day, which represents Ma Tam Ru’s exploitation of mankind. On the second day, a ceremony known as “Nga Chham” marks the birth of Dorjee Sonnu, a manifestation of Lord Buddha who serves as the demon’s offspring. On the last day, the Ma Tam Ru is finally allowed to return to Lord Buddha’s world. The Sakya sect of Buddhism is represented by Cheodhe Monastery, which is the principal organizer of all dances and performances.

We’ll also look at a few of the monasteries that have been preserved via restoration during the past 20 years. In order to learn more about The Last Forbidden Kingdom, we will visit Jhampa Gompa, Chode Gompa, Choprang Gompa, The Royal Palace, The Monastic Museum, and many more places of cultural and religious significance. We will also walk to Tringkhar, a tiny settlement in the northwest, if our travel schedule permits.

Day 19. Lo Manthang to Drakmar (3810m), 6-7 hours trek

After celebrating the Tiji festival in Lo Manthang Municipality, the journey back from Lo Manthang will take a detour. We will follow a different route, going via the village of Gyakar, which is home to the 100-year-old monastery known as Ghar Gompa. According to certain tales, anyone who makes a wish here would have it granted. We will continue our journey to Drakmar village, where we will spend the night, after making a wish at this enlightened monastery.

Day 20. Drakmar to Ghiling (3805m)

We will start our trek’s twentieth day by descending from Drakmar (3810m) to Ghiling (3805m). Strong gusts, though, could make it difficult for us to reach the arid plateau. We will go across the parched meadows and arrive at Ghilling, where we will spend the night.

Day 21. Ghiling to Chhuksang(3050m)

We will continue our journey by descending from Ghiling (3806m) to Chhuksang (3050m), having successfully completed the windy walk from Drakmar to Ghiling. While travelling through various hamlets, the magnificent views of the Himalayas will distract you from your fatigue. We will arrive at the village of Chhuksang after a six-hour hike, where we will spend the remainder of the day exploring.

Day 22. Chhuksang to Jomsom (2700m), 6-7 hours trek

We’ll spend seven hours hiking on our final day, through the Upper Mustang Region and into the Annapurna Range. We’ll leave as early as we can and stop for lunch at Kagbeni. As we make our way back to Jomsom, where we will spend the night, the route traverses the well-known Annapurna Circuit Route.

Day 23. Fly back to Pokhara

We will fly back to Pokhara after an early breakfast. Being flown across the vast gap that sits between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain Ranges makes the journey a singular experience. After a delicious lunch in Pokhara, we will spend the rest of the day observing the beauty of Pokhara city.

Day 24. Drive Back to Kathmandu from Pokhara

After a seven-hour journey from Pokhara, we will return to Kathmandu and get ready for your departure. We will all gather for a goodbye dinner with live cultural performances in a typical Nepali restaurant.

Day 25. Final Departure

Our journey to Upper Mustang through The Annapurna Circuit will come to an end on this day. You will, however, come home with infinite memories imprinted in your mind for all eternity. Before your flight, one of our staff will give you a fond farewell as they accompany you to Tribhuvan International Airport.

Our Travel Expert

Udaya Gartaula

+9779801026642

info@rolwalingtrek.com

Glimpse Of Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang Trek route
Chhurpi Hanged by the local people at upper Mustang trek
Trekker at Upper Mustang Trek
Lo Manthang Mustang
upper Mustang trekking
Upper Mustang Trekking Route
Trekkers at Upper Mustang Trekking

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Cancellations & Refunds

At Rolwaling Trek, we just want our clients to have the best possible experiences. That’s why we don’t withhold deposits or have a fixed cancellation policy. We understand that sometimes life puts you in unexpected situations, so if you have to cancel or postpone a trip, there’s no need to worry.

If you need to change plans, please get in touch with us as soon as you can, and we will make the necessary arrangements to amend or cancel your trip. You can contact us at: +977 – 9801026642.

Notes

  • Trekking routes can be customised to suit your personal interests, abilities and time constraints.
  • If an area does not have good quality accommodation options, we can provide very comfortable camping-style accommodation for the duration of your journey.
  • Rolwaling also has a team of cooks who specialise in making Japanese cuisine, using authentic ingredients from Japan.
  • A lot of the fresh produce used in our dishes is sourced locally from growers in the trekking region.

Bespoke Trips to the Himalayas

We pay special attention to your requirements and craft personalized getaways which showcases unique cultural, adventure and natural experiences of Nepal. We craft bespoke journeys for your expeditions & treks and also ensure you can experience the best that Nepal has to offer even for your shorter trips.

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