Upper Mustang Trek

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Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang Trek
Duration18 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude4,010 m
Group SizeAny
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleTrek/ Jeep Tour
Best TimeSpring, Autumn & Monsoon

The Upper Mustang trek is an adventurous trek through the remote, high-altitude desert region of Mustang in Nepal. The itinerary of the trekking is of 18 days in which you will have the unique experience of tibetan buddhist culture, see the stunning landscapes, and get acumen in the ancient history of the Forbidden Kingdom. 

Highlights of the trek

  • Breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks like Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri ranges.
  • Chance to see the ancient villages and learn traditional culture.
  • Visit the highest point of the Upper Mustang trail, Lo Manthang.
  • Interact with the locals of the villages and get insights into the local customs and lifestyle.
  • Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere if you are traveling during the Tiji festival time.
  • Trekking through the diverse terrains and dramatic rocky trails passing through multi-colored canyons and wind-blasted passes.
  • Explore monasteries like Dragkar-Thegchen Ling Gompa, Jampa Gompa, and Thupchen Gompa.
  • Walking through the narrow whitewashed streets of the Lo Manthang.
  • Opportunity to spot the unique wildlife like snow leopards, Himalayan blue sheep, lynx, and brown bears.
  • Explore the traditional trans-Himalayan trade route and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
  • Witness the unique practices of Tibetan Buddhist culture and the everyday life of locals.
  • Explore the caves in the sandstone cliffs, canyons, and gorges of Upper Mustang.
  • Visiting the palaces of the forbidden kingdom, Lo Manthang mustang.
  • Have the private trekking experience, as it is less crowded.

A Brief Overview of the Trek

The upper Mustang trekking itinerary starts upon your arrival and sightseeing in Kathmandu city. Then, the ascending journey continues, crossing through places like Kagbeni, Syangboche, and Tsarang to the Lo Manthang.

The descending journey then ends with the trek to Jomsom, passing the villages like Drakmar and Chhuksang. From Jomsom, you will fly to Pokhara and then to Kathmandu. From Pokhara, you can go to your desired place. 

During the upper Mustang trekking, you will see the snow-capped peaks like Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Nilgiri, Manaslu, Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and so on. The other scenery includes views of colorful gorges with rainbows, deep canyons and ancient caves with paintings and artifacts, wind-sculpted rock formations in hues of red and brown, and so on.

Besides it, the upper Mustang region is home to diverse flora and fauna. You can explore the lush green forests, breathe the fresh air, watch the wildlife including snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, blue sheep, and musk deer moving freely in their natural habitat, and experience the serene atmosphere.

This trek to the upper mustang region is not only about adventurous challenges but also about cultural immersion. You will get to engage deeply with the rich Tibetan Buddhist traditions and the unique lifestyle of the local communities, explore the monasteries, and other places.

Major Highlights of the trek

  • Kathmandu City

Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal, known as the home to several historical as well as cultural sites. Most of these sites, like the Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Swayambhu, and Bauddhanath, are listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites too.

These sites offer a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and architectural experiences. You can explore the unique architecture of the ancient peoples, the cultural values of each structure and idol, learn the religious part of the sites, and much more.

  • Pokhara

Pokhara is a tourism capital of Nepal offering countless opportunities for the nature lover and adventure seekers. When in Pokhara, you can explore the lakeside markets, go for adventure activities like paragliding, and explore the historical as well as religious sites.

  • Jomsom

Jomsom is a starting point of the trek in the Upper Mustang trek itinerary. It is a village in Mustang district. Most of the people who are going for the Muktinath trek or Lo Manthang trek go through Jomsom. It sits at an elevation of about 2,700 meters (8,900 ft).

You can experience the Thakali culture, taste the regional dishes, and visit Gompas and monasteries. The locals of the Jomsomm are very friendly. You can interact with them, learn the local customs, and learn their way of living.

  • Kagbeni

Kagbeni is one of the oldest villages located in the Mustang District in Nepal. The altitude level at which the village sits is 2,804 meters (9,199 feet). It is surrounded by barren landscapes, rugged mountains, and steep cliffs.

This village is the first stop after the first day of the trek to stay. It offers views of plateau landscapes, the Himalayan range, and the Kali Gandaki River valley. The other attractions of the village are the unique culture and traditions of the locals and their hospitality. 

  • Syangboche

Syangboche is a village in the Manaslu circuit trail known for the stunning views of the snow-capped peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri. The elevation level at which the Syangboche sits is 3,800 meters (12,467 feet). 

The Syangboche village is rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture and has several stupas, monasteries, and Gompas. You can interact with the people and learn about their customs and lifestyles. 

  • Lo Manthang

Lo Manthang is a beautiful settlement in the Mustang district of Nepal. It is a historically and culturally important place. The elevation at which Lo Manthang is situated is approximately 3,800 meters.

Historically, the Lo Manthang settlement served as the capital of the Kingdom of Lo. As you can see, the structures reflect the artwork of ancient times. The structures are ancient monasteries, including Jampa Lhakhang and Thupchen Lakhang, the Royal Palace, and traditional houses with intricate wood carvings and mud-brick structures.

  • Chhuksang

Chhuksang, also known as Chhusang, is a village within the Dhawalagiri Zone of Nepal. The settlement is rich in cultural heritage, with notable sites including Thagsing Grangma (cave system). From the village, you can see the beautiful mountains like Machapuchare, Dhaulagiri,  Annapurna II, Annapurna I, and more.

This settlement is characterized by the diverse landscapes, featuring towering cliffs in shades of red, orange, and gray dotted with cave dwellings. You may also find the Red Cliffs/Red Walls, Chortens/Stupas, Apple Orchards, and so on.

  •  Dragkar-Thegchen Ling Gompa

Dragkar-Thegchen Ling Gompa, also known as Dragkar-Thegchen Lina Gompa, is a popular Buddhist monastery in Upper Mustang, Nepal. It is home to some of the highest-ranking lamas in the region. In the monastery, Buddhist teachings are taught to the monks.

This monastery was constructed in the 13th century during the reign of King Ama Pal. At that time, the region was known as the Kingdom of Lo. 

  • Jampa Gompa

Jampa Gompa, also known as Jampa Lhakhang Monastery or Maitreya Temple, is an important Buddhist monastery in the Upper Mustang region of Nepal. The monastery showcases the traditional Tibetan-style architecture.

The construction of the Jampa Gompa was done in the early 14th century by King Angon Sangpo. The main constructed site was a statue. Today, that statue is known as the Maitreya Buddha Statue and is the center of attraction.

  • Thupchen Gompa

Thupchen Gompa, also known as Thubchen Lhakang, is another Buddhist monastery located in Lo Manthang. It was made in the 15th century and showcases the intricate Tibetan-style architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Since then, this monastery has served as a center for Buddhist rituals and ceremonies. In this monastery, you can also see the several ancient wall paintings that incorporate hues of turquoise, malachite, cinnamon, and gold, which is stunning. 

WHY US?

3S: Safety, Success, and Satisfaction

Booking an Upper Mustang Trek package with Mystic Adventure Holidays offers superior service and benefits. Here's why:

  • Client Safety: Our trips are organized with the utmost safety in mind.
  • Best Price Guarantee: Ensuring you get the best value.
  • Free Transfers: Complimentary airport-to-hotel and return transfers in a private vehicle.
  • Expert Guides: Trained, government-licensed local guides with extensive route knowledge.
  • Support for Locals: Helping local communities earn a living through tourism.
  • Health Monitoring: Oximeters to monitor oxygen levels during high-altitude treks.
  • Medical Preparedness: Guides equipped with medical kits to handle any situations that may arise. 
  • Essential Gear: Arrangements for sleeping bags and down jackets.
  • Free Storage: Secure storage at our office for extra luggage during your tour.
  • Convenience: Duffel bags for transferring items to be carried during the journey.
  • Porter Service: A free porter to help carry your heavy bags.
Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all

Kathmandu, Nepal's capital city, is located in a valley surrounded by picturesque green hills on all sides. Assume you enter through the flight (Airways). The Mystic Adventure Holidays representative will be in the airport terminal with our company flag. Nepali CultureThe traditional greeting is to press one's palms together in front of the chest and utter "Namaste" (which means "I greet the god within you"). Depending on the level of the person you are welcoming, you may greet them with a nod of the head or a bow, as well as khadas (Buddhist shawls) or garlands and a crimson tika (tilak) on your forehead. Garlands and tilaks are used in Nepal to signify honor when someone comes.to wish you a hearty welcome. After welcoming you, our representative will drop you off at your hotel and assist you with check-in. Our representative will greet you at your location if you come by road.

There will be no activities scheduled for you.

You can relax, and if you wish to explore, you may do so on your own. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu

Before visiting Nepal, you may have learned how to greet someone with a 'Namaste' or thank someone with a 'Dhanyabad'. However, it's important to note that Nepal is an ancient civilization with its own set of ideologies and mannerisms. Here are some social etiquettes specific to Nepal that can help you avoid being disrespectful or humiliating in public. Nepal's roads are unpredictable. Roads are usually congested, resulting in numerous traffic backups. Most places lack traffic lights, forcing drivers to rely on hand gestures from police officers. Visit religious places and UNESCO-listed places.

  • Swoyambhu Nath Stupa
  • Boudhnath Stupa,
  • Pashupatinath Temple,
  • Kathmandu Durbar Square,
  • Patan Durbar Square
Max Altitude: 1,400 m Meals: Welcome dinnerAccommodation: Apsara Boutique hotelDuration: 30-45 minDistance: 6km

What better way to know the city than by visiting its popular monuments? Even though we will not be able to tour all the tourist sites in Kathmandu in one day, our tour guide will take you to the most popular ones. After having breakfast, you will drive to Swayambhunath, located on a hilltop, and continue the tour towards the sacred Pashupatinath Temple and the largest stupa of Nepal, Boudhnath Stupa. 

The tour ends at the Kathmandu Durbar Square, where you will be exploring centuries-old palaces, shrines, and courtyards. This one-day Kathmandu tour will offer you a good insight into the culture, art, and history of Nepal.

Max Altitude: 1400 m Meals: Breakfast onlyAccommodation: Apsara Boutique hotelDuration: Full Day

It takes 6 to 7 hours of a long drive from Kathmandu to reach Pokhara. The good news is, that you will be following a very scenic route that offers mesmerizing views of lush green hills, rivers, waterfalls, and a glimpse of mountains at a distance. In the evening, enjoy the bustle of Lakeside Market and have dinner in your restaurant.

Max Altitude: 822 m Meals: Breakfast onlyAccommodation: Kuti Resort or Hotel KarunaDuration: 6-7 hrsDistance: 200 km

An early-morning flight from Pokhara will take you to Jomsom. The flight will be approximately 20 minutes long and offer stunning views of snow-capped Himalayan mountains, lakes, and hills. From Jomsom, you will cross a small bridge and gradually ascend towards Kagbeni. If you do not have a flight, take a jeep drive to Jomsom; it will take around 9 hours.

Max Altitude: 2,743 m Meals: Breakfast onlyAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 20 min flight & 3-4 hrs trekDistance: 69 km

The trail from Kagbeni goes along the Kali-Gandaki River. You may face a strong wind on the way. While passing by Tangbe village, you can see beautiful white-washed houses, fields of barley & buckwheat, and apple orchards. The route to Chele involves pretty narrow passways. 

Max Altitude: 3,050 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 14 km

Today, you will be crossing two passes: Taklam La (3,624 m) and Darjori La (3,735 m). It will be a tough day, but the spectacular views along the way are worth the difficulty. Following a downhill trail, you will descend to Samar village and walk to a ridge. The trail steeply descends one more time before taking you to Syangboche for the night. 

Max Altitude: 3,735 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 13 km

It's only going to be tough, as you will gain elevation. With rugged, steep routes, you also have to deal with the thin air and remoteness of the region. The trail from Syangboche ascends to Yamada La Pass (3,850 m). You will further pass by fine villages and lush forests before crossing another pass, Nyi Pass (4,010 m). Both of the passes offer outstanding scenery. The trail then descends to Ghami. 

Max Altitude: 4,010 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 9.3 km

It is a short trekking day today. However, don't feel at ease because you will be crossing Tsarang La Pass (3,870 m) along the way. Trekking on rugged and slippery ground, you descend to a bridge that crosses Ghami Khola. The trail further passes by mani walls and crosses the pass. You will ascend to the top of the Tsarang Chu canyon, where the Tsarang village is located.

Max Altitude: 3,870 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 4-5 hoursDistance: 9-10 km

After having breakfast, you will get ready for the day. Drop down into the canyon and cross a river. The trail gradually ascends towards the Lo La Pass (3,950 m). An amazing view of Lo Manthang is seen from the top of this pass. The trail then takes you to the village, where you will be spending the next two days.

You can see mountains like Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m), and Bhrikuti Peak (6,361 m) around you.

Max Altitude: 3840 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 4-5 hrsDistance: 11 km

Today is our first acclimatization day, which is very necessary to adjust the body to the altitude we have gained so far. To make the day exciting, we will be hiking to the Chhoser Caves (3,770 m). These are also known as sky caves, built into the side of cliffs.

Even to this date, it is not sure who made these caves and why. Many people say it's burial chambers, monasteries, hiding places, etc. After coming back to Lo Manthang, explore the village and its ancient monasteries & palaces. Spend time with locals and get to see their simple lifestyle.

Max Altitude: 3840 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: Full Day

Here comes another long trekking day from Lo Manthang to Drakmar. The trail passes through Gyakar village, where you will explore the century-old, famous Ghar gompa. This gompa has fascinating rock paintings. Further, the trail descends to Drakmar for the night.

Max Altitude: 3700 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 17.2 km

Today, the trail will be windy; therefore, you will begin trekking early in the morning to avoid it. From Drakmar, the trail drops down through a dry plateau and farming fields. You will soon reach Ghiling, which offers excellent views of Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m) and Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m). 

Max Altitude: 3,570 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 12 km

Wake up early and have a warm breakfast, enjoying superb views of the mountains. The trail descends to Chhuksang today. You will be trekking through remote mountain villages, enjoying surreal scenery throughout the route.

Max Altitude: 3,050 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 15 km

It's time to say goodbye to the upper Mustang and enter the lower Mustang. The trail today takes you back to Kagbeni. You will walk alongside the Kali Gandaki gorge and go through narrow gullies. Likewise, the route also passes by lovely apple orchards and small, fine villages before you reach Jomsom. 

Max Altitude: 2,715m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6-7 hrsDistance: 18 km

Another 20-minute flight, and you reach Pokhara, relishing the breathtaking aerial landscape. You will have an entire day in Pokhara to rest and visit tourist sites if you want. In the evening, don't forget boating on the tranquil Phewa Lake. End the day enjoying the nightlife in Pokhara.

Max Altitude: 950 m Meals: Breakfast onlyAccommodation: Kuti Resort or Hotel KarunaDuration: 20 minDistance: 60 km

If you feel energetic, we can go on a short tour in Pokhara early in the morning before leaving the city. You can also go paragliding. Pokhara is known for its scenic paragliding. Later, follow the same route back to Kathmandu.

Today is your last day in Kathmandu, so don't forget to do window shopping in Thamel and enjoy its lively night ambiance for the last time. Farewell dinner with the team to celebrate the success of the trip and say goodbye to each other.

Max Altitude: 1,350 m Meals: Breakfast onlyAccommodation: Apsara boautique hotelDuration: 6-7 hrsDistance: 200 km

In case the flight or weather changes from Jomsom to Pokhara, you need an extra day. 

Meals: Breakfast only

Here concludes the journey. Today, it is time for you to return home. Our Mystic Adventure Holidays airport representative will send you off 3.5 hours prior to your arrival in Kathmandu, following a traffic jam that we observe, and upon your arrival. will assist you with check-out and transport you to the airport before the time of your flight. The time has come to bid Dieu.

We dress you in traditional khada in anticipation of your safe journey and good fortune.  It's time to say farewell. We put you in traditional khada for good luck and a safe flight. Thank you so much for giving me a chance to plan your trip. I am glad to be part of your Nepal journey. I hope you have a wonderful time in Nepal. see you again, Nepal, once, but never enough. Have a safe flight back to your home. Best wishes from Mystic Adventure Holidays.

Max Altitude: 1350 m Meals: Breakfast onlyDuration: 30-45 minDistance: 6km
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Cost Details
Included
  • All the ground transportation is in private vehicles, including both domestic arrivals and departures 
  • 3-night accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast 
  • 2X nights accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast in a three-star standard hotel 
  • Guided Kathmandu Valley Excursion in private vehicles 
  • Kathmandu - Pokhara  - Kathmandu  transfer by tourist bus 
  • Pokhara - Jomsom - Pokhara transfer by private jeep
  • Twin-sharing accommodation during the trek in standard teahouse & lodges 
  • Full board meal with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek 
  • An experienced, certified, and professional trekking guide for the entire trek 
  • A porter for two trekkers ( if you are traveling solo, you've got to pay extra for the porter)
  • Food, accommodation, insurance, and salary of guide and porter 
  • All the necessary permits and entrances, such as ACAP, TIMS Card, and Restricted Area Permit 
  • Welcome dinner in Kathmandu 
  • Season fruits as dessert during the trek 
  • Mystic Adventure Holidays trekking bag/duffel bag
  • Mystic Adventure Holidays t-shirt and trekking maps are yours to take
  • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits
  • An achievement certificate as a souvenir
  • Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
  • All government and local taxes
Excluded
  • Nepalese visa fee
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Domestic flight (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu)
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and/or Pokhara
  • Extra-night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain (due to any reason) compared to the scheduled itinerary
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
  • Tips for guide(s), porter(s), 10% of You Pay and driver(s)
Route Map
Upper Mustang Trek
Altitude Chart
Upper Mustang Trek
Dates & Availability

We organize private treks too. If you wish to tailor-make the Upper Mustang Trek itinerary, then contact us anytime. You can custom-create the itinerary as per your time availability and requirements. 

Essential Info

Difficulty level of the trek

The Upper Mustang trek difficulty level is graded as moderate to strenuous depending upon the experience level. There are various factors contributing to the difficulty level. For example, the total Upper mustang trek distance covered is 115 km within 11 days. The average walking hours per day are 6-7 hours.

Furthermore, the highest elevation reached during the trek is 3940 meters. The trekkers need to walk on rocky and uneven paths that feature steep ascents and descents. Some trails include narrower parts and expose you to the cliff edges. To face all these challenges, one needs to be fit and do proper preparations.

Best time for the trek

The best time for the Upper Mustang trek is during the months of March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather conditions of the upper Mustang region become stable with mild temperatures and less precipitation. In the March, April, and May months, the wildflowers bloom, making the trails and valleys beautiful.

You can also trek during the monsoon season, as the Mustang region falls under the rain shadow area. However, it is best to bring rain gear, as it may rain sometime.

Permits are required for the trek.

The Upper Mustang Trek Permit includes a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and a TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System). You can obtain these permits via an authorized trekking agency, as trekking in the restricted area without a trekking agency is not allowed.

If you want to fly the drones in this region, you will need a drone permit. Learn more about the drone laws in Nepal from the link.. 

Travel insurance requirements for the trek

The travel insurance, especially for the Mustang Nepal trekking, is highly recommended by the professionals. It is very useful in case of helicopter evacuation, medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, personal liability, and other unexpected events.

Make sure that the travel insurance policy covers the Mustang trek itinerary, as some may not cover the altitude coverage or special areas. Also, bring the copy of the travel insurance documents, as it may be needed during the claim of the insurance.

Accommodations and Food Options

During the upper Mustang trek, you can get the various types of accommodation options like teahouses and lodges. The amenities are mostly basic, as it is a remote area. The amenities include beds, blankets, and pillows. The bathroom and dining area is shared.

In the lower elevation of the Mustang region, you may get the private rooms with en suite bathrooms and better facilities in the lodges.

In term of food options on the Mustang Nepal trekking, you have the options like Oatmeal, cornflakes, muesli, Tibetan bread, fried eggs, pancakes, fried noodles, momo (dumplings), dal bhat (traditional Nepali meal), rice with curry, and various vegetable dishes. 

Electricity, Internet, and Telephone

The Mustang trek Nepal trails are connected with the national electricity grid up to lower regions. However, there may be power cuts sometimes. In the higher regions like Upper Kagbeni and Lo Manthang, people depend upon solar power.

You can find the wifi in most of the teahouses and lodges, especially in the larger villages like Jomsom and Lo-Manthang. The connection speed depends upon the crowd level in the teahouses and lodges. They offer the services at a small cost. You can also use the data as an alternative.

The mobile coverage is available in places like Jomsom, Muktinath, and Lo-Manthang. However, the quality can be inconsistent in the higher regions like Lo Manthang. You can purchase the local SIM, as it is better and more affordable than the international roaming.

Toilet and shower facilities

While on high-altitude treks like Mustang trekking, you must be aware of the toilet and shower facilities. Hygiene is most important. Most of the teahouses have communal toilets featuring squat seats. You may find the sit-down flush toilets in lower Mustang regions.

The hot showers are available in most of the tea houses at an additional Upper Mustang trek cost. The hot shower includes a bucket style rather than the showerhead style.

Overall weather and temperature

The overall weather and temperatures may differ in lower and upper Mustang regions, as both regions are included in the itinerary. The weather of the Mustang region is also different from the other regions, like Everest and Annapurna.

The overall weather and temperatures during the Mustang trek are listed below.

  • Spring season: The daytime temperature ranges from 14°C to 20°C, with nighttime temperature dropping below -5°C. The weather is pleasant. There is less chance of rainfall.
  • Summer season: The daytime temperature floats between 20°C and 30°C with nighttime temperature dropping below 0°C. Even in the summer season, there is minimal rainfall in the Mustang area as it is in the rain shadow zone.
  • Autumn season: The daytime temperature fluctuates between 12°C and 20°C, and nighttime temperature can drop below -4°C. The weather conditions are stable. 
  • Winter season: The daytime temperature varies from 0°C to 5°C with nighttime temperature dropping below -20°C. This season is harsh with cold and potential snowfall.

The lower elevations and higher elevations temperatures differ by 5°C in every 1000-meter altitude difference. And the lower elevations are always warmer.

Altitude sickness issues and acclimatization

During the trek to the Upper Mustang region, there are various challenges to overcome, including high-altitude problems. Most of the trekkers overcome these challenges, but few get affected by them. The major high-altitude problem is acute altitude sickness issues.

The acute altitude sickness issues start with simple symptoms like headaches, dizziness and fatigue, nausea and vomiting, shortness of breath, insomnia, and so on. If left untreated, it can escalate to life-threatening conditions like High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).

The cause is due to an inability to adjust to the reduced oxygen levels at higher elevations. The acclimatization and prevention strategies include ascending slowly, Staying hydrated, avoiding alcoholic drinks, and so on. The treatments are descending to a lower elevation, taking ibuprofen or aspirin, and other medications like acetazolamide (Diamox) or corticosteroids.

Upper Mustang Trek Luggage

The porter will assist you in carrying your luggage while hiking but you have to carry your backpack by yourself. Your luggage must be within 15 kg per person, as one porter will carry the luggage of two guests. Make sure to pack your luggage with only necessary items without making it overweight. 

Upper Mustang Trekking leader and crew

You cannot trek in the Upper Mustang region without a certified guide. Trekkers, including Nepali citizens as well as foreigners, need to hire a guide for trekking in this region. In addition to this, you must have a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) permit and a special permit for the Upper Mustang trek.

Gear and equipment

For the Upper Mustang trek from Nepal, you will require the following gear and equipment:

  • Clothing including quick-drying shirts and trousers, fleece jackets and thermal underwear, waterproof jackets and pants, Warm hat, gloves, sun hat or scarf, and sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Footwear like hiking boots, camp shoes, and camp shoes.
  • Trekking gear including daypacks, trekking poles, and dry bags.
  • Hydration and nutrition like water bottles and snacks.
  • First Aid and Personal Care items that have painkillers, blister plasters, antiseptic cream, and altitude sickness medication in them, along with toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and a small towel.
  • Miscellaneous items including a headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries, cash and travel documents, a camera, and more.

Customized Itinerary and Trip Extensions

If you are unable to book a package on the listed date, we can customize it according to your free schedule. We, the Mystic Adventure Holiday team, also organize tailor-made itineraries for the Upper Mustang trekking as well as other trekking in Nepal. For example, Upper Mustang trek itinerary 7 Days. 

In addition to the trek to the Upper Mustang region, we can organize trips to Everest Trekking, Langtang Trekking, Manaslu Trekking, Mountain Flights, Water Rafting, Jungle Safaris, City Tours (Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini), Homestay Tours, Nepal Cultural Tours, Tibet Tours, Bhutan Tours, or India Tour Extensions as per your time frame.

The Upper Mustang Trek cost for Nepali is US$4590 for two persons. Two persson is mandatory as less than two person trekkers with guide is not allower\d to trek in the restricted areas. 

Tips to make the journey smooth

  • Focus on your physical conditioning before the trek to Nepal Upper Mustang region.
  • Include all the essential gear, avoiding overpacking.
  • Choose the best trekking agency, like Mystic Adventure Holidays.
  • Be flexible with the itinerary changes due to unforeseen circumstances like strikes or other events.
  • Ascend gradually and drink plenty of water during the trek.
  • Avoid alcoholic drinks/smoking to stay safe from altitude sickness.
  • Carry your favorite snacks and bars to munch on the trail.
  • Be prepared for the weather changes and natural calamities.
  • Make sure your travel insurance covers air travel and medical bills.
  • Carry extra batteries or a solar charger to charge your electronic devices.
  • Get a Nepali SIM card to use the internet on the way. You may not get a reliable connection all the time because of the elevation.
  • Use the Upper Mustang trek map for a better understanding of the terrains and important cultural sites on the way.
  • You can tip USD 100 each to the guide/porter, USD 2 to the driver, and USD 5 to the tour guide.

Book the Upper mustang trek from kathmandu with mystic adventure holidays and enjoy the best service. 

FAQs

The Upper Mustang Trek is a difficult to moderate-level trek. It is neither easy nor strenuous. It all depends on your trekking experience, fitness, and endurance level. 

The biggest reason for the Upper Mustang being a restricted area is the open border between Nepal and Tibet. This restricted area permit and strict rules are to control illegal activities and maintain border security. Likewise, the region also has many undiscovered caves, huge deposits of minerals, and ancient cultural heritage.

To reach Mustang from Kathmandu, you have to fly or drive to Pokhara. From there, you can fly/drive to Jomsom and trek to Lo Manthang, which takes 4 to 5 days.

On average, the Upper Mustang trek costs around USD 1500 to USD 2100 for 12 days. The price may change if your itinerary is longer. Check our cost include and exclude section for more information, or talk to our representative here for detailed information regarding the Upper Mustang trek cost. 

Mustang is 8084 miles away from Pokhara.

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