Upper Mustang Trek

UPPER MUSTANG TREK

Upper Mustang Trek is the heaven of the world which is being considered as the hidden world of the Buddhist kingdom of Mustang. It is also known as “Lo” which used to be the part of the Tibet. That’s why; the culture and traditions are very much similar to Tibet.  This region was forbidden for trekking and it was officially opened only about 15 years back in 1992. Even though the trekking is open for trekkers, there is some part of Upper Mustang which is still restricted for trekking. The trekkers require special trekking permit and should accompany an officer who is appointed by the government. Upper Mustang trek lies in the rain shadow, mainly in the northern part of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. This region is completely protected from the monsoon downfall. It is better to travel here during the monsoon season as the local people will be busy with their work.

The Upper Mustang is also popularly known as the “Forbidden Kingdom” which is full of eroded canyons, parched valleys and yak caravans. The trail of Upper Mustang trek will let us enjoy the barren landscapes filled with the chortens full of colorful prayer flags, white washed-houses, and fields of barley. Ponies are available for transports which are hired. We can see the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs en route to the Upper Mustang and Lo-Manthang. Lo-Manthang is the oldest capital of Mustang, where the palace of the last kind is still there. There is a Lo Gekar Monastery which was built during the Eighth century by the Tibetan magician Guru Rimpoche. There is a story that Dhakmar was painted red by the blood of a powerful demon that was killed by Guru Rimpoche. We can visit the Amchi museum and the Amchi School. The Amchi is an official Tibetan doctor of the king.

Upper Mustang Trek is usually accessible from a flight from Pokhara to Jomson. The flight will fly over the deepest gorge in the Kali Gandaki that runs between the Nilgiri and the Dhaulagiri mountains. Kagbeni is another attraction of Upper Mustang. There are several teahouses for accommodations where authentic Nepalese foods and International cuisine are available. There is a seasonal migration during November as many local inhabitants move from Lo-Manthang and surrounding regions towards the lower altitudes for winter months. This might cause inconvenience in the food and accommodation facilities. Since Upper Mustang Trekking is considered to be a moderate type, the trekkers should be able to walk for about at least 5 – 6 hours daily. The other adventurous activities are mountain biking, village tours, trekking, and explore the Tibetan cultures with amazing food and culinary. Step On Himalaya will always be ready to serve the valued guests with the utmost facility and services. Any change in the itinerary is acceptable.