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The Upper Mustang Trek indeed offers a unique and culturally rich experience for adventurous trekkers. Situated in a geographically and culturally distinct region, it provides an opportunity to explore landscapes and traditions that are not commonly found in other parts of Nepal. The itinerary, designed to steer away from modern roadways, allows trekkers to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the region while also encountering ancient cave dwellings and intriguing rock formations that speak to the area's rich history. The limited number of trekkers allowed each year ensures a more intimate experience, ideal for those who appreciate solitude and authenticity in their adventures. This also contributes to the preservation of the traditional Tibetan culture that remains largely untouched by modern influences. The historical significance of Upper Mustang, tracing back to its roots in Tibet and its emergence as an independent kingdom, adds another layer of fascination to the trek. The capital, Lo Manthang, with its iconic white walls, serves as a captivating centerpiece to the journey, offering insights into the region's past as a vital trade route between Tibet and Nepal. Furthermore, the role of Mustang's geography in providing strategic advantages during times of conflict, such as the training of Tibetan guerrillas in the 1960s, adds a layer of intrigue to the area's history. For those seeking to embark on this extraordinary adventure, Ghumnajaau stands ready to provide a safe and enriching journey into the heart of Upper Mustang, promising a trip of a lifetime filled with wonder and discovery.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, We're grateful for the warm welcome extended by our official. We will take you to the hotel in our private tourist vehicle. Pre-trip meeting will be done and you will meet with your trip guide. Make sure to confirm your queries about trekking in the mountains.
Your trekking staff will ensure a smooth transition for you from the hotel to the tourist bus station, beginning your journey to Pokhara at around 7:30 am. Pokhara, often hailed as the gateway to the Annapurna region, is a picturesque valley nestled beside the tranquil Phewa Lake.
Renowned for its breathtaking views, Pokhara offers panoramic vistas of iconic Himalayan peaks like Annapurna and Machapuchare to the north, Dhaulagiri to the west, and Lamjung Himal and Manaslu to the east.
Compared to the bustling energy of Kathmandu, Pokhara is smaller and more serene, making it an ideal starting point for your Annapurna Base Camp (Annapurna Santuary) trekking adventure. With its tranquil setting and proximity to the majestic Himalayas, Pokhara sets the stage for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Annapurna region.
Early in the morning, we will fly to Jomsom. The flight is 25 minutes on a scenic flight view of Spectaculars Mountains. We start the first-day trekking from Jomsom (2713m) to Kagbeni (2897m) after breakfast. The trail follows the wide valley of the Kali Gandaki. Here the wind generally picks up after about midday but will at least be blowing at our backs as you head up to ancient village Kagbeni in the morning time. The rest of the day we will explore the village, people, and culture.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Time: 25+4 hours Mode: Hotel/Lodge
Our journey begins with a special permit check-up and onwards to the riverbank of Kaligandaki River up to the valley. During today’s walk, the trail leads us through the picturesque deserted and windswept valleys. This trail continues up and downhill until we reach the Tangbe village. From here we trek onwards to Chhusang and after a 1½ hour walk, we cross a river heading up to the huge red chunk of conglomerate that has fallen from the cliff above. The trail continues heading on to small ridges until we reach the Chele village (3050m) after 18 kilometers. Here we will stay overnight at a local tea house.
Today, we start our trek again after breakfast and walk further to Ekle Bhatti then climb to Taklam La Pass (3,624m) and Dajori La (3,735m) through a narrow stretch of the plateau with views of Tilicho Peak, Yakawa Kang, Nilgiri, and Damodar Danda. After lunch in Samar, we walk further for about three hours including passes through the Bhena La (3,860m) and Yamda La (3,850m) to the Syanbochen elevation at 3,840 meters. The trail today is 8 kilometers long. The rest of the day explores surrounding ancient unique village area. We stay again at a teahouse overnight.
The trail leads us uphill to the Syangboche La (3,860m) and passed a few teahouses, Chortens (Tibetan Stupa), and local villages with Tibetan-style houses. We then cross over a few other paths. After lunch, we have a long climb to the Nyi Pass (4,010m) and Ghami La (3,765m) with a wonderful landscape view. Then we descend to Ghaymi (3,520m) for an overnight stay at the tea house, after 12 kilometers of walking.
After breakfast, we start our trek on a pleasant and easy trail which we’ll walk for about 4 to 5 hours up to Charang (3,560m). Then after crossing Ghaymi Khola, the trail climbs to a plateau and passes beside a very long Mani wall (Mantra inscribed stone walls) which heads east to Tsarang. After about 11 kilometers up and down the trail get us to the teahouse in Charang, where we will stay overnight. We will enjoy exploring around the ancient village for the rest of the day. You may go to Ghar Gumpa via Mui La (4,170m) from Dhakmar skip Charang Village.
The trail leads us to Lo-Mangthang with a majestic view of Nilgiri, Tilicho, Annapurna I, and Bhrikuti. The landscape scenery is absolutely fascinating. At first, the trail descends to Tsarang Chu Canyon and then climbs steeply up after crossing the river. Then the trail further ascends gently to the windy pass of Lo La (3,950m), from where you can see the Lo-Mangthang valley (3,810m) while views of the walled city appear magnificently amongst its hills. All of this takes place right next to the Tibetan border. We will stay overnight at a local hotel. The rest of the time can be spent exploring the surrounding areas which are almost identical to Tibet and Tibetan culture.
Today is your special day to explore around Lo-Mangthan. You first explore the surrounding Namgyal Gomba monastery situated on a hilltop, which serves as an important monastery of the local community and also as a local court. After visiting Namgyal Gompa (3,910m) continue the hike to Tingkhar (4,025m), which is a village of around 40 houses, the last main village to the northwest of Lo-Mangthang. After finishing your visit stroll back to the hotel. You have another option to visit the Chamjung and Lhaktung Gumba, the red Thugchen monastery, Chyodi Gomba are in the entrance hall which are the main attractions of Lo Mangthang. Besides this, you may visit the four-story building of the Raja's Darbar (Royal Place) as well as the surrounding panoramic views of the Himalaya, where the Lo Mangthang Ex: King -Jigme Prabal Bista (25th King of the Upper Mustang Kingdom) offers you Tibetan tea as a sigh of his hospitality.
Lo Manthang is known as a walled city also, it is believed to be built in 1380 AD by the first King of Lo ‘Ame Pal’. The wall which is 2422 feet (725m) long and 26 feet (about 8 m) high have a series of 14 towers along its border. The towers rise 40 feet (12m) high, 6 feet (2m) wide at the base, and 3 feet (1m) wide at the top. During the regimes of the Mustang King, the towers were guarded by armed guards to defend the town from enemies. This day you may visit the Namgyal ‘The Monastery of Victory’, Tinker ‘summer palace of Mustangs King’, Choser Valley ‘famous for cave culture’ and Luri Gumba ‘built inside the rock’ are other major attractions of Upper Mustang. Choser Cave is a spectacular multi-storied cave building with 42 rooms, which is an example of ancient human civilization and their tradition and to get in cave Gumba it takes about 1 ½ to 2-hour walk away from Lo Manthang or you have option pony trek or hire a motorbike or any Vehicles for 45 minutes. There are other many hidden treasures around the Chooser Village where you may explore as well if not too tired.
The trekkers are walking all the way to Jomsom on traditainly trip route or even extend to the Luri Gumba Trek. But in this trek, today you will drive back all the way to Jomsom by Jeep /Bus recatching amazing scenery and mesmerizing formation of the landscape. So, early in the morning, you may walk around the town to capture the last sight of the trip. After having breakfast drive by Jeep through the Charang, Ghyami, Syanbochen, Chele, Kagbeni.It takes 8 to 9 hours’ drive through the off-road. Staying overnight at a hotel in Jomsom.
Early in the morning, we fly to Pokhara by small aircraft while enjoying the majestic mountain views above the world’s deepest gorge. The rest of the day can be spent relaxing in the Pokhara hotel. If you are up for it, feel free to wander around Lake Side city with its fascinating mountains panorama views, and charming nature.
We should be ready by 6:00 in the morning in a hotel lobby in order to have breakfast or seek advice from your trekking guide. We will drive back to Kathmandu through on the main road passing terraces, streams, rivers, local settlements, and high hills. It takes about 7 hours (conditional) to reach in Kathmandu.
It’s the end of our exciting journey in the Mustang region (Annapurna region). Today we conclude our 13 day Upper MustangTrekking. One of our airport representatives will accompany you to the International Airport for your flight back home.
We bid you farewell, and hoping you’ll travel to Nepal again.
The Upper Mustang Trek and Return on Drive is considered moderately difficult, and while prior experience and training are beneficial, they are not strictly required. Here are some considerations regarding the difficulty level and prerequisites for this trek:
Altitude: The Upper Mustang region is located at high altitudes, with some sections of the trek reaching elevations above 3,800 meters (12,500 feet). While this altitude is not extreme compared to some other treks in Nepal, it still poses a risk of altitude-related illnesses such as acute mountain sickness (AMS). Proper acclimatization and awareness of altitude sickness symptoms are crucial.
Trekking Duration: The Upper Mustang Trek and Return on Drive typically takes around 10-14 days to complete, depending on the specific itinerary and starting point. Trekking for an extended period at high altitudes requires stamina, endurance, and mental resilience.
Terrain: The trek involves hiking on rugged and varied terrain, including rocky paths, narrow trails, and occasional steep ascents and descents. Some sections may require crossing rivers or traversing loose scree slopes. While prior trekking experience can be helpful in navigating such terrain, it is not strictly necessary.
Remote and Isolated Areas: Upper Mustang is a remote and culturally preserved region, with limited access to modern amenities and facilities. Trekkers should be prepared for the challenges of trekking in a remote and isolated environment, including basic accommodations and limited infrastructure.
Cultural and Historical Attractions: The Upper Mustang region is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including ancient monasteries, caves, and traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture. While these aspects add to the allure of the trek, they may also require some physical exertion to explore.
While prior trekking experience is not strictly required for the Upper Mustang Trek and Return on Drive, having a reasonable level of fitness and some hiking experience can enhance your enjoyment and comfort during the trek. Engaging in regular cardiovascular exercise and building endurance through hiking or other outdoor activities can help prepare you for the demands of the trek.
Additionally, it's essential to be adequately prepared for the trek by acclimatizing properly, carrying necessary gear and equipment, and following basic safety guidelines. Hiring a knowledgeable guide or joining a trekking group can also enhance your experience and provide additional support and expertise along the way.
Overall, while the Upper Mustang Trek and Return on Drive presents its challenges, it is a rewarding and memorable adventure for those seeking unique cultural encounters and breathtaking landscapes in the heart of the Himalayas.
During the Upper Mustang Trek and Return on Drive, you'll typically stay in tea houses or lodges along the route and have access to food and drinking water. Here's what you can expect regarding stay, food, and drinking water:
Tea Houses/Lodges: Along the trekking route in Upper Mustang, there are tea houses and lodges offering basic accommodation facilities. These establishments typically provide simple rooms with beds, blankets, and shared bathroom facilities. While basic, these accommodations provide shelter from the elements and a place to rest after a day of trekking.
Camping: In some remote areas or if you're venturing off the main trekking routes, you may need to camp overnight in tents. Be sure to bring along all necessary camping equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and cooking gear.
Meals at Tea Houses/Lodges: Tea houses and lodges along the route serve meals to trekkers, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu typically includes a variety of Nepali and Tibetan dishes, such as dal bhat (rice with lentil soup), noodles, momos (dumplings), and tsampa (roasted barley flour). Meals are usually hearty and designed to provide the energy needed for trekking.
Packed Lunch: Some tea houses offer packed lunches for trekkers to take with them on the trail. These typically consist of sandwiches, fruits, energy bars, and other snacks to fuel you during the day's trek.
Bottled Water: You can purchase bottled water at tea houses and lodges along the route, but keep in mind that plastic bottles contribute to environmental pollution. Consider bringing a reusable water bottle and using water purification tablets or a filtration system to treat water from natural sources along the trail.
Natural Water Sources: There are several natural water sources along the trekking route, including streams and rivers. However, it's essential to treat or purify water from these sources before drinking to prevent waterborne illnesses.
Overall, while facilities may be basic and limited in some areas of Upper Mustang, you'll find adequate options for stay, food, and drinking water along the trekking route. Be prepared to adjust your expectations and carry necessary supplies for camping and self-sufficiency in more remote sections of the trek.
Health and safety are important considerations during the Upper Mustang Trek and Return on Drive. Here are some key health and safety issues to be aware of:
Altitude Sickness: One of the primary concerns during high-altitude trekking is altitude sickness (acute mountain sickness or AMS). Symptoms can include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. Proper acclimatization, gradual ascent, staying hydrated, and recognizing symptoms early are crucial for preventing and managing altitude sickness. Descend immediately if symptoms worsen.
Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated and well-nourished is essential for maintaining energy levels and preventing altitude-related illnesses. Drink plenty of water (purified) and eat regular, nutritious meals to fuel your body for the demands of trekking.
Weather Conditions: Weather in Upper Mustang can be unpredictable and harsh, with rapid changes and extreme conditions, especially at higher altitudes. Be prepared for cold temperatures, strong winds, snowfall, and sudden storms. Dress in layers, carry appropriate clothing and gear, and be ready to seek shelter if necessary.
Physical Fitness: The Upper Mustang Trek and Return on Drive require a reasonable level of physical fitness. While prior trekking experience is not strictly necessary, regular exercise and cardiovascular training can help prepare you for the demands of the trek.
Remote and Isolated Areas: Upper Mustang is a remote and culturally preserved region, with limited access to modern amenities and facilities. Trekkers should be prepared for the challenges of trekking in a remote and isolated environment, including basic accommodations and limited infrastructure.
Environmental Considerations: Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Dispose of waste properly, avoid single-use plastics, and respect local customs and culture. Be mindful of wildlife and potential hazards such as landslides and avalanches.
Emergency Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with emergency evacuation procedures, communication options, and evacuation routes in case of emergencies. Carry a satellite phone or emergency locator device for communication in remote areas.
By staying informed, prepared, and vigilant, you can mitigate many health and safety risks while trekking and driving in Upper Mustang. However, it's essential to recognize your own limits, listen to your body, and prioritize safety above all else.
Ghumnajaau's team embodies a profound dedication to mountain adventure and the vast beauty of the great outdoors. With extensive experience in navigating remote trails and towering peaks, they are true specialists in high-altitude exploration. Their diverse backgrounds and qualifications, coupled with a deep connection to the local culture and environment, ensure a rich and authentic experience for every traveler. Led by qualified guides who prioritize safety and enjoyment, each trip is meticulously planned and executed. With a thoughtful ratio of support staff to travelers, personalized assistance is always at hand. Committed to creating unforgettable journeys in the Himalayas, Ghumnajaau's team shares their expertise and passion for the mountains, ensuring every adventurer leaves with cherished memories and a profound appreciation for the natural world.
The best time to visit Upper Mustang for the trek and return on drive is during the spring and autumn seasons, which offer the most favorable weather and trekking conditions:
Spring (March to May): Spring is an excellent time to visit Upper Mustang. During this season, the weather is generally stable, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and blooming wildflowers adding color to the landscape. The trails are also less crowded compared to the peak trekking season in autumn.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another ideal time for visiting Upper Mustang. The weather is typically clear and dry, with crisp air and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Days are warm and sunny, while nights can be chilly, especially at higher altitudes. Autumn is also the peak trekking season, so expect more crowds on the trails and in tea houses.
During these seasons, the weather is generally stable, with minimal precipitation and lower chances of encountering snow or monsoon rains, which can make trekking more challenging. However, it's essential to be prepared for variable weather conditions, as mountain weather can be unpredictable regardless of the season.
While trekking during the monsoon season (June to August) is possible, it's not recommended due to heavy rainfall, muddy trails, and increased risk of landslides and avalanches. Similarly, winter (December to February) can bring cold temperatures, snowfall, and limited tea house availability, making trekking and driving more challenging and potentially dangerous.
Overall, the spring and autumn seasons offer the best balance of favorable weather, stunning scenery, and manageable trekking and driving conditions for visiting Upper Mustang.
Travel insurance is mandatory and highly recommended for any adventurous trips in Nepal, including the Upper Mustang with Luri Gompa Trek. It should cover emergency helicopter evacuation, particularly in cases of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or other emergencies at high altitudes where alternative transportation options are unavailable. It's essential to carefully review the insurance policy and its coverage before making a decision. Participants should carry proof of insurance during the holiday and leave a copy with a trusted contact. Ensuring that the insurance provides adequate protection and covers the activities involved in the trek is crucial for peace of mind and safety throughout the journey.
The provided itinerary serves as a guideline for your trip; however, it is subject to modification based on prevailing situations and your preferences after consulting with your guide. While you have some flexibility in modifying certain aspects of the itinerary, the date of trek completion must align with the original schedule.
Please understand that this is an adventure trip into a remote mountain region, where unforeseen events may necessitate changes to the itinerary. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and in such cases, your guide will recommend the best alternative that closely aligns with the original program.
We appreciate your understanding and flexibility as we strive to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience for all participants.
The gear list provided is comprehensive and covers essential equipment for the Upper Mustang with Luri Gompa Trek. Here's a breakdown of the items listed:
Head gears:
Sunhat
Warm hat
Buffs X 2
Sunglasses
Headlamp with spare batteries
Upper Body:
Thermal or fleece base layer top X 2
Short Sleeve Trekking shirts X 2
Full Sleeve trekking shirts X 2
Soft-shell jacket/fleece jacket X 2
Light down jacket X 1
Hardshell jacket with a hood X 1
Insulated Down Jacket (provided by request)
Lower body:
Thermal or fleece base layer bottom X 2
Trekking trousers/pants X 2
Warm trekking trousers X 1
Hardshell pants
Insulated down pants (optional)
Underwear:
5 pairs of underwear
2 Sports Bra for women
Footwear:
Waterproof Hiking Boots
Hiking socks X 4 pairs medium to heavy
Liner socks X 2
Camp shoes
Gaiters (If trekking in March)
Handwear:
Softshell gloves X 1
Heavyweight gloves X 1
Gears / Personal equipment:
Daypack 30-35 litres with rain cover
Waterproof Duffel bag (provided by request)
Down Sleeping bag (-15 C rated) (provided by request)
One-litre capacity water bottle X 2
Trekking poles
Camera with charger or spare batteries
Personal snacks and energy bars
Laundry bag
Padlock (Optional)
Rain Poncho
Large plastic bags
Extra clothes for Kathmandu
Toiletries and hygiene:
Quick-drying towel
Small face towel
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Face mask
Water treatment tools or tablets
Soap and Shampoo/Dry shampoo
Face and body moisturizer
Sunscreen SPF30+ and Lip balm SPF 30+
Hand sanitiser/Antiseptic wipes
Hygiene products
Basic first aid kit (Pepto Bismol, Cipro (500mg tablets), Metronidazole, Hydration salts, Eye drops, Azithromycin (250mg tablets), Diamox (250mg tablets, approx. 20 total), and variety of standard painkillers including Tylenol, Ibuprofen, etc)
Documents:
Passport with visa and validity of 6 months after your trip completion
2 copies of passport-size photos (For Sim card and travel purposes)
Credit cards in case of emergencies
Driving ID or any other ID in case of loss of your passport
Travel Insurance and Flight tickets
Make sure to double-check the list against your personal needs and preferences, and consider the weather conditions during your trek. Additionally, ensuring proper fitting and comfort of the gear is essential for a successful trekking experience.
Passport:
All foreign visitors to Nepal must possess a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond their planned departure date.
Visa:
Nepal visa can be obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport (Tribhuvan International Airport) or you can obtain Nepal visa prior to your arrival through the Nepalese embassies, diplomatic missions and consulates near your location. Nepal Visa is also issued at the entry points if you are entering Nepal by land.
Visa Fees:
Nepal visa fees are listed below as per the duration.
|
Traveller Type |
Fee / Entry Requirement |
|
General foreign nationals |
USD. 30/ 50/ 125 (15/ 30 /90 days) |
|
Visa extension in Nepal |
USD 45 + USD 3 per extra day (+ USD 5/day if late) |
|
Gratis Visa (children, SAARC* Chinese) |
Free (up to specific durations) |
|
Exempt nationals (select countries) |
Visa-free (30–90 days, depending on agreement) |
|
Indian citizens |
No visa required |
* SAARC excludes Afghanistan for gratis visa eligibility.
Important Note: It is always advisable to verify the visa requirements upon booking your trip. Visa requirements may vary depending on where you are from and it’s also recommended to check the transit country requirements as well.
While we share this information in good faith, it is crucial for you to independently verify it and acknowledge that you bear full responsibility for your visa requirements.
Point of Arrival:
Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal
Meeting Instructions:
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), proceed to pay your visa fee, apply for Visa On Arrival (VOA), clear customs, and collect your luggage.
Look for a team member holding a placard stating 'Ghumnajaau' outside the arrival hall.
You will be escorted to your hotel for check-in.
Airport Pickup and Drop:
Airport transfers are arranged based on the flight information you provide.
Notify promptly if there are changes to your flight schedule.
Look for a team member holding a placard that reads 'Ghumnajaau' in the arrival area for pickup.
For departure, you will be taken to the airport according to your flight schedule.
Emergency Contact for Airport Transfers:
• Santosh: +9779840027548
Having clear instructions and emergency contacts ensures a smooth transition upon arrival and departure from Kathmandu. If there are any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to Santosh or the team for assistance.
