- Details
Itinerary
Itinerary- Useful Info
- FAQ
Trip overview
Upper Mustang is a remote and isolated region in the northwestern part of Nepal that is often referred to as the “Forbidden Kingdom.” The region is renowned for its unique culture, stunning landscapes, and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The Upper Mustang Trek takes you on a journey through the heart of this region, passing through traditional villages and visiting ancient monasteries and palaces. The trek is considered a challenging but rewarding experience, as the high altitude and rugged terrain require a good level of physical fitness. However, the reward is a chance to experience the unique culture and natural beauty of one of the last truly unspoiled regions of the world. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time traveler, the Upper Mustang Trek is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.
Itinerary
Useful Info
- Permit requirements: To visit Upper Mustang, you need to obtain a special permit from the Nepalese government, as it is a restricted area. You will need to apply for a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Upper Mustang is during the spring and autumn seasons, from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is clear, dry, and mild.
- Trekking difficulty: The trek to Upper Mustang is a moderate to difficult level trek. It involves trekking through remote and rugged terrain, high passes, and steep uphill and downhill sections. It is essential to have a good level of fitness and stamina for this trek.
- Altitude: The highest point of the Upper Mustang trek is the Lo La Pass, which stands at 4,850 meters (15,912 feet) above sea level. Acclimatization is crucial during the trek to avoid altitude sickness.
- Culture and history: Upper Mustang is a unique region with a rich history and culture. The region was once a part of the Tibetan Empire and has retained its Tibetan influence. The people in Upper Mustang are called Lobas and speak their own dialect, which is a mix of Tibetan and Nepali. The region is also home to several ancient Buddhist monasteries, some of which date back to the 13th century.
- Accommodation: Accommodation options in Upper Mustang are basic, with most lodges offering shared rooms and common washrooms. Some lodges may offer attached washrooms and hot showers for an additional fee.
- Transportation: The only way to reach Upper Mustang is by foot or by a combination of road and foot. The trek begins from Jomsom, which can be reached by a 20-minute flight from Pokhara, or by a jeep ride from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Jomsom. From Jomsom, it takes about 10-12 days to trek to Upper Mustang.
- Health and safety: Trekking in Upper Mustang involves risks such as altitude sickness, injury, and extreme weather conditions. It is essential to have travel insurance that covers trekking and to take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Hiring a local guide or trekking agency is highly recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.
FAQs
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What is Upper Mustang?
Upper Mustang is a remote and restricted region in Nepal, known for its unique culture, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and stunning desert landscapes.
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How do I get to Upper Mustang?
The only way to reach Upper Mustang is by foot or by a combination of road and foot. The trek begins from Jomsom, which can be reached by a 20-minute flight from Pokhara or by a jeep ride from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Jomsom. From Jomsom, it takes about 10-12 days to trek to Upper Mustang.
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Do I need a permit to visit Upper Mustang?
Yes, you need to obtain a special permit from the Nepalese government to visit Upper Mustang, as it is a restricted area. You will need to apply for a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.
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When is the best time to visit Upper Mustang?
The best time to visit Upper Mustang is during the spring and autumn seasons, from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is clear, dry, and mild.
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What is the difficulty level of the Upper Mustang trek?
The trek to Upper Mustang is a moderate to difficult level trek. It involves trekking through remote and rugged terrain, high passes, and steep uphill and downhill sections. It is essential to have a good level of fitness and stamina for this trek.
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What is the altitude of Upper Mustang?
The highest point of the Upper Mustang trek is the Lo La Pass, which stands at 4,850 meters (15,912 feet) above sea level. Acclimatization is crucial during the trek to avoid altitude sickness.
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What is the culture and history of Upper Mustang?
Upper Mustang is a unique region with a rich history and culture. The region was once a part of the Tibetan Empire and has retained its Tibetan influence. The people in Upper Mustang are called Lobas and speak their own dialect, which is a mix of Tibetan and Nepali. The region is also home to several ancient Buddhist monasteries, some of which date back to the 13th century.
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What kind of accommodation is available in Upper Mustang?
Accommodation options in Upper Mustang are basic, with most lodges offering shared rooms and common washrooms. Some lodges may offer attached washrooms and hot showers for an additional fee.
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Is it safe to trek in Upper Mustang?
Trekking in Upper Mustang involves risks such as altitude sickness, injury, and extreme weather conditions. It is essential to have travel insurance that covers trekking and to take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Hiring a local guide or trekking agency is highly recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.
