Embark on a journey into the concealed realm of the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Mustang, also known as Lo, with the captivating Upper Mustang trek. Once an integral part of the Tibetan empire, Mustang shares a profound connection with Tibet, evident in its rich cultural tapestry and architectural heritage.
Tibetan Buddhism thrives in its purest form here, shaping the villages that mirror Tibetan aesthetics. The white-washed houses adorned with firewood on their roofs stand as testaments to the deep-rooted Tibetan influence in the region.
Beyond the cultural immersion, the landscape of Mustang echoes the rugged terrains of Tibet. Situated in the rain shadow of Dhaulagiri, the region reveals a desolate yet mesmerizing expanse. Trekking in Mustang during the summer season allows you to traverse this barren landscape, surrounded by rocks painted in myriad colors and peculiar formations. In this stark environment, the vibrant villages emerge as oases, with bright-colored fields providing a stark contrast to the rocky surroundings.
Tracing the ancient salt caravan route, the trek takes you back to the days when Mustang traded Tibetan salt for grain from the lowlands. The ultimate goal of the Upper Mustang trek is Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang. Lo Manthang is a medieval town enclosed by an expansive town wall. As you approach from the Lo La pass (3950m), the town shimmers in the distance, a beacon in the barren landscape.
Entering Lo Manthang through its town gate is like stepping into a different world. The narrow alleys beckon exploration, revealing a town frozen in time. Encounter small groups of women spinning wool and exchanging the news of the day on street corners. In the late afternoon, witness herds of goats being guided through the city gate and narrow alleys back to their sheds within the town.
Lo Manthang boasts the grandeur of the king's palace, a colossal four-level structure. Although the king holds no real political power, his presence commands immense respect from the locals. Stroll through the town's alleys to discover ancient monasteries, such as the Thugchen Gompa, a magnificent structure dating back to the 15th century.
The Upper Mustang trek is not just a physical journey; it's a pilgrimage into a hidden kingdom where time has stood still, preserving traditions, cultures, and landscapes that captivate the soul. Explore the enchanting heritage of Mustang and witness the resilient spirit of a region that continues to echo the whispers of its ancient past.
Day 01 – Arrival in Kathmandu (4,430ft)
- Welcome dinner and a briefing on the trek.
Day 02 - Kathmandu (4,430ft)
- Full day of sightseeing in Kathmandu.
- Visit Swayambunath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Pashupatinath.
- Dinner with a view of Boudhanath Stupa.
Day 03 - Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara
- 6-7 hours drive with scenic views of mountains and terraced fields.
- Free time for shopping or a boat trip in Pokhara.
Day 04 - Flight to Jomsom and trek to Kagbeni (9,215 ft.) (3-4 hrs)
- Morning flight to Jomsom.
- Trek to Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang.
Day 05 - Kagbeni to Chele (9,950 ft.) (6-7 hrs)
- Trekking along the Kali Gandaki River with views of Nilgiri.
- Arrival in Chele.
Day 06 - Chele to Syangboche (11,900 ft.) (5-6 hrs)
- Unrelenting climb and stunning views.
- Arrival in Syangboche.
Day 07 - Syangboche to Ghemi (11,300 ft.) (4-5hrs)
- Uphill trek to a pass with views of Annapurnas and Nilgiris.
- Visit Ghemi Village.
Day 08 - Ghemi to Tsarang (11,500 ft.)(5-6 hrs)
- Descend to the Kali Gandaki tributary.
- Explore Tramar, Lo Gekhar, and Tsarang villages.
Day 09 - Tsarang to Lo Manthang (12,400 ft.) (6-7 hrs)
- Trek to Lo-Manthang with panoramic views.
- Explore the walled city.
Day 10 - Lo Manthang
- Exploration day in Lo-Manthang.
- Explore narrow streets, gompas, and potentially meet the king or queen.
Day 11 - Lo Manthang to Dri (11,100 ft.) (3-4 hrs)
- Trek southeast to the Tholung Valley.
- Arrival in Dri.
Day 12 - Luri Gompa excursion
- Day trip to Luri Gompa via Yara and Ghara villages.
- Explore the mysterious cave monastery.
Day 13 - Dri to Tange (11,050 ft.) (5-6 hrs)
- Follow the river, crossing tributary streams.
- Arrival in Tange.
Day 14 - Tange to Tetang (9,900 ft.)
- Up and down trek in lower elevations.
- Arrival in Tetang.
Day 15- Tetang to Muktinath (3790 ft) (6-7 hrs)
- Climb to Gnyu La pass.
- Arrive in Muktinath, a holy pilgrimage site.
Day 16 - Muktinath to Jomsom (6-7 hrs)
- Trek along the Annapurna circuit route.
- Arrival in Jomsom.
Day 17 – Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
- Scenic flight to Pokhara.
- Optional hike to World Peace Pagoda.
Day 18 - Flight to Kathmandu and Transfer to Bhaktapur (6-7 hrs)
- Fly back to Kathmandu and drive to Bhaktapur.
- Relax and recover from the trek.
Day 19 - Sightseeing in Bhaktapur
- Full day of sightseeing in Bhaktapur.
- Explore the rich culture, temples, and artworks.
Day 20 – Transfer to the airport and flight back
- Free time for last-minute shopping.
- Transfer to the airport for departure.
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