Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang Trek is the package intended to bring you across the hidden and mysterious world of Buddhist Kingdom of Mustang, also known as Lo. Historically a part of Tibet Empire, the region is a pure influence of Tibetan Buddhism with houses built in Tibetan style; white washed and roof tucked with firewood. Lying in the shadow of Dhaulagiri, Mustang is not only famous for its unique culture and practices but also the bizarre landscapes comprising of colorful rocks of every possible sizes and shapes. The rocky region of Mustang and the barren land villages and colorful fields makes the region extraordinarily beautiful. The trek’s goal is to reach the capital of Upper Mustang. Following the Salt Caravan Route used from the ancient days to trade salt and grains we follow the Lo La Pass (3950m) entering into Lo Manthang. As you enter through the town gate, the world is different and still unknown to many people. The completely different lifestyle there is fascinating to watch; the women in their tradition dress spinning wool and discussing the news of the days and smiling and greeting tourists as you pass by, herd of goats getting in the city gate, the King’s palace there comprising of 4 storey building and visit to the King if he is in the town, some beautiful and huge monasteries residing from 15th century and visit to Amchi Museum and Amchi School; for Amchi is the traditional Tibetan Doctor and the only two official doctors for the King in the region. You can also have a interesting horse ride to Chhoser, where you can visit small monasteries and old cave at an altitude dwelling there since centuries. The most convenient way to get to Upper Mustang is a fly from Pokhara to Jomsom and trek from there following the Lo La Pass to Kagbeni and Lo Manthang. The flight itself is a moment to remember, passing you through the deepest gorge in the world Kali Gandaki, in between the gorgeous Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. The return trip can be made more interesting by taking the pass from Dhakmar elevating 4200m whish bring you close to the world’s oldest Tibetan monastery, Lo Gekar Monastery built in 8th century by the famous Tibetan Guru Rinpoche. The belief says he killed a powerful demon and painted its blood across the walls of Dhakmar. Upper Mustang has been a restricted area up until 1992 and it was totally forbidden to foreign visitors. The Upper Mustang now requires a permit of USD 500 that can be arranged through Trekking Agency and additional USD 50 per day of extra stay. The place can be trekked now with a fully organized camping trek or you can also use the small guest houses recently opened by the locals. The guest house follows the Tibetan Culture of Kitchen as the centre of the house where you can sit with them and chat about the ways of their daily life.