A trek that transports you to medieval times of the Trans-Himalayan Kingdom
Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang is one of the most beautiful and unique places in Nepal. It lies beyond the Himalayas, famous for perfectly preserving its ancient culture, colorful monasteries, views of the snow-capped mountain, and its overall vibrant landscape.
The Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Peaks, which loom over the Mustang Valley and stand out stunningly against the sand-like dunes, can be seen nearby.
Upper Mustang’s entire topography resembles a high-altitude, chilly desert. The sands of the Mustang are subjected to the effects of snow, wind, and sun, which cause erosion and produce some of the world’s largest and most vibrant cliffs.
There are no other treks like the one to Upper Mustang, once known as the Kingdom of Lo. Westerners were only permitted starting in 1992, but the area has remained unaltered since the 14th century.
Upper Mustang is also known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal.
The majority of the wall surrounding the kingdom still exists today. The culture and tradition have been so effectively preserved as a result.
This region, which shares a border with China’s Tibet Autonomous Region, has been profoundly influenced by the Tibetan language and culture. The majority of locals speak the traditional Tibetan language.
Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek
Autumn (October and November), Summer (June to September), and Spring (April and May) are the finest times to visit Upper Mustang. Unlike other parts of Nepal, this area experiences a rain shadow throughout the summer; hence there is no rain here.
Spring is when the Tiji celebration occurs. In Lo-Manthang, a three-day festival that symbolizes the triumph of good over evil is observed and celebrated.
Likewise, the Yartung Mela, a horse festival that lasts three to four days and begins in Lo-Manthang with horse races and archery, is celebrated in the summer.
Because of the harsh winters, the locals relocate downward. The hotels and resorts are shut.
Key attractions of the Upper Mustang Trekking
The key attractions of Upper Mustang Trekking, as discussed below,
Lo-Manthang
The capital of Upper Mustang is Lo-Manthang, a walled city or city enclosed by a wall. It has linguistic and cultural similarities to Tibet.
Namgyal Gompa, the village’s local courthouse, is on a mountaintop. Both socially and religiously, it is pretty significant.
A 40-household tiny community is also located in Lo-Manthang. It is lovely. There is also a sizable Buddha statue nearby that is adorned with elaborate Mandalas. It is referred to as Jampa Lhakhang.
In addition, historic monasteries and gompas like Nyuphu monastery and Thupchen gompa are also located here.
Chhoser Cave
The Chhoser Cave is a group of about 10,000 man-made caves close to Lo-Manthang and built high up in cliffs.
It lends Upper Mustang a magical appeal and is carved into the slopes of valleys. The location has been designated as a potential UNESCO site since 1996.
Three different times have been set aside for its use. Burial chambers have been thought to be the oldest use. The caves were used as homes later, in the 10th century, to provide security. The caves were allegedly used as military observation posts, storage facilities, and even meditation rooms by the year 1400.
Culture, Monuments, and Mountain
Upper Mustang Trek provides the perfect views of Annapurna I (8,091 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m), Tilicho (7,134 m), and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge.
Likewise, visiting the Muktinath temple is significant to both Hindus and Buddhists and is a unique spiritual experience.
The Lobas, locals of Upper Mustang, is a unique opportunity to learn about authentic Tibetan culture and lifestyle.
Costs associated with Upper Mustang Trek
The main costs associated with the Upper Mustang Trek are permit fees, meals, and accommodation in restricted areas.
Restricted Area Permit
The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit are necessary for Upper Mustang.
The Immigration Department issues the first, while the Tourism Board issues the second.
RAP costs USD 500 per person for ten days, plus USD 50 for each additional day. Only through a trekking agency can one receive it. An ACAP permit typically costs around USD 30.
Upper Mustang treks require a minimum of two people, who must travel with a trekking agency authorized to operate in Nepal.
Food
The approximate cost of food during the Upper Mustang Trek is USD 5 to USD 7 per meal. Dal bhat is a typical dish in Nepali cuisine. Rice is referred to as bhat and lentils as dal. Along with this, there are curries, pickles, eggs, etc.
Although the food during the Upper Mustang Trek is traditional and distinctive, it is also possible to find western food, traditional Nepali food, and other options.
Accommodation
The approximate accommodation cost for the Upper Mustang Trek is USD 5 to 10 per night. Although the lodging in Upper Mustang is relatively basic, it is adequate.
Most toilets have a western flush style and can be found in public or private restrooms.
The most hike will take place in tea houses, which offer accommodation in each settlement along the walking route.
Insurance
Although the Upper Mustang trip is not very challenging, it is quite secluded and constrained due to the trail’s lack of health posts and limited car access.
It is crucial to get insurance because a helicopter rescue could cost up to USD 3,000 in an emergency. Typically, travel insurance should cover medical expenses, rescue operations, and claims for missing luggage.
Conclusion
Hence, if you have wondered what’s it like to wander in an ancient medieval kingdom that has remained intact through time, with beautiful views of the snow-covered mountains, you should do the Upper Mustang Trek.
The Upper Mustang Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience worth your time and a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else. So, while it looks expensive at first sight, trekking permits are not expensive.
