Upper Mustang Trek - 16 days

Lo-Manthang

Lo-Manthang is the capital of Upper Mustang in Nepal, famous for its rich cultural heritage and striking landscapes. It lies at an altitude of about 3,840 meters (12,570 feet) above sea level.

It is an ancient walled city that acts as a gateway to the culture and history of the Mustang Kingdom, once an important trading hub between Tibet and Nepal. The streets are often graced with colored long prayer flags flapping from the traditional Tibetan-style mud-brick houses, which are rich in complex carvings. Lo-Manthang houses several significant monasteries, and one important mention is Chhoede Monastery with its beautiful murals and Buddhist artifacts. This unique amalgamation of spirituality and history together, with the awesome background of the Himalayas, makes this place a great attraction for trekkers and cultural enthusiasts alike. 

Above all, Lo-Manthang expresses warm hospitality from the locals, who hold dear their Tibetan customs and ways, inviting visitors into the richness of their cultural tapestry.

Scenic Beauty of Upper Mustang

The scenic beauty of Upper Mustang is simply magnificent, with dramatic juxtaposition in rugged landscapes with colorful hues. This high-altitude desert, often called the "Last Forbidden Kingdom," offers dramatic cliffs, deep canyons, and wide plateaus that present an incomparable and surreal atmosphere. The stark, arid terrain is intermingled with lush valleys and terraced fields where local farmers grow barley and other crops in a patchwork of green against the backdrop of barren hills. Far away, the snow-capped summits of the towering peaks of the Himalayas appear majestically, a very interesting contrast to the earth tones that seem to make the area so warm. Ancient monasteries and traditional villages with their unique Tibetan architecture dot the landscape, adding cultural richness to the already rich natural beauty. Changing shades of light at dawn and dusk make enchanting shadows on the ground, brightening the cliffs alive into red, ochre, and yellow, thereby giving the trekker and adventurer an experience that is just magical and which very few get to enjoy in such a remote region.

Difficulty Level of Trek

It's a moderate to hard difficulty level of the trek; therefore, Upper Mustang Trek is best for those trekkers who possess reasonable fitness levels and prior experiences in trekking. It's a kind of trek that comprises everything crossing over rocky pathways to steep uphill and downhill climbs at a high altitude, challenging for low oxygen levels. 

Typical, healthy trekking hours start from 5 up to 8 hours every day, following a particular itinerary and also concerning acclimatization factors. Even though the trail is relatively well marked, the trekkers should be prepared for sudden weather changes and the probability of coming across rugged landscapes. The altitude is more than 4,000 meters (13,123 feet); hence, proper acclimatization is very important to avoid altitude sickness.

This is best attempted by those who are physically prepared and follow a gradual ascent. If well prepared, the amazing scenery along the way and the cultural encounters make all the effort worthwhile, rewarding the trekker with lifetime memories of this beautiful, remote region.

Best Season to Trek in Upper Mustang

This largely depends on the weather conditions and what experience you want to have while trekking to Upper Mustang, including Muktinath. These are the favorable seasons for trekking over the region:

Spring (March to May): In spring, trekking is also among the best enjoyed in Upper Mustang as the winters start relenting, ridding the high majesty of rain. As the snow of winter melts with the starting warmth of the season, beneath layers of pink and white blossoms whiffed in by greenery in early spring, luscious landscapes form at lower altitudes. Simultaneously, wildflowers bloom at quite peripheral lower altitudes as well. This also makes the beauty of the trek. Otherwise, it is just like autumn since visibility is so good most of the time. So, good timing for photography.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is probably one of the best times to trek in the Upper Mustang. The weather is pretty stable: usually, it features pretty clear skies, with moderate temperatures during the day and chilly nights, especially in the higher altitudes. This season boasts the greatest visibility of the impressive Himalayan peaks, such as Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, that make the most spectacular sights. Of course, autumn is always high season among trekkers, so you might be bumping into more fellow travelers along the trail, especially in the busiest places.

Food, Accommodation, and Water during the Trek

Food: Traditional Nepali food like dal bhat, which is lentil soup with rice, momo or dumplings, Tibetan bread, and soups are the usual fare on the trek. The menu might be limited at higher altitudes, but you will always find nutritious and energy-rich foods to keep you going.

Accommodation: Accommodations along this trek are basic but comfortable. Teahouses and/or guesthouses in villages such as Kagbeni, Lo-Manthang, and Jomsom are simple, family-run operations that serve a meal or two and provide overnight accommodations. Rooms will be either shared or private, depending on the composition of the group, and usually have basic bedding. Be prepared to have a somewhat rustic experience with hot water, electricity, and Wi-Fi sometimes unavailable during times deep inside the remoteness.

Water: As there is a threat of contamination of natural sources, for drinking, water purification is recommended with iodine tablets, filters, or a purification system. Drinking bottled water is available along the trail; do not forget to take your refillable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.

Packing List for Trek

Here's a comprehensive packing list to help you prepare for your Upper Mustang Trek adventure:

Clothing

• Lightweight thermal underwear (top and bottom)

• Fleece jacket or down jacket

• Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants

• Trekking pants

• Warm hat

• Sun cap

• Insulated gloves

Foot Wear

• Comfortable Trekking Boots

• Camp Sandel

• Pairs of Trekking Socks

Gear

• Backpack

• Sleeping Bag

• Trekking Poles

• Water Bottle and Water Purification

• Headlamp

Personal Items

• Toiletries

• First Aid Kit

• Towel

• Sunglasses

• Camera

• Power Bank

• Snacks

• Cash

• Documents

Communication and Connectivity During Trek

Mobile Network & Wi-Fi: Now, in most of the villages, mobile network coverage is available, though quite weak or not smooth. Some teahouses have internet access but it will be poor and expensive when in remote areas. In case of emergency, your agency or guide can have satellite phones if needed.

Emergency Evacuation: Ensure your travel insurance covers the cost of helicopter evacuation in case of any medical issues or altitude sickness. The trek is generally safe, but it's always good to have a trip backup if something happens.