Upper Mustang Trekking is a journey into the well-preserved world of the historical Buddhist kingdom of Mustang, where you can experience a lifestyle similar to that of Tibet, including its language and traditions. The area's isolation from the outside world has contributed to the preservation of its culture and natural environment. Located in the rain shadow of the Dhaulagiri mountain range, Upper Mustang is a dry and civilized but dry landscape characterized by its unique rock formations in various colors. Well popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you through the remote and isolated region of Upper Mustang, which is also known as the "Lost Kingdom of Lo." This trek offers an opportunity to explore the unique culture, traditions, and landscapes of the area, including the towering Himalayan peaks, deep gorges, and barren landscapes. As a result of being in a rain shadow, Upper Mustang is a great destination for trekking even during the monsoon season.
The trek is known for its unique culture, geography, and historical significance. It is located in the Annapurna region and lies in the rain shadow area, making it one of the driest regions in Nepal. The trek usually involves hiking through rough terrain, crossing high passes, and visiting remote villages. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy spectacular mountain views, learn about the local culture, and experience the beauty of the Nepalese landscape. The trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, scenic villages, and ancient Tibetan-style monasteries. It is considered a moderate to challenging trek and typically depending on the itinerary and the travelers need to obtain a special permit to visit Upper Mustang, as it lies in a restricted area.
Highest elevation reaching only 3840 meters or if you hike from Lo-Mantang then 4000m around. It is cold in winter, especially in the mornings and evenings, and windy in the late afternoons. The scenery is dotted with settlements of white-washed houses, barley fields, and trails adorned with prayer flags, monasteries, and houses. The trail follows the ancient salt caravan route where people from Mustang traded Tibetan salt for goods from the lowlands. To embark on this trek, you can fly or drive to Pokhara and then fly to Jomsom the next day. From Jomsom, you can walk to Kagbeni and stay overnight in a hotel. The next day, the route to Muktinath requires a different permit. The trek typically starts from Pokhara and takes around 15-17 days to complete, depending on the route and pace of travel. It is considered a moderate to challenging trek, so good physical fitness and previous trekking experience is recommended.