Upper Mustang Trek – 15 Days Overview
The Upper Mustang Trek is an astonishing trek into Mustang‘s hidden kingdom. This area is rich in history, culture, and stunning vistas. This walk, located in Nepal’s remote Trans-Himalayan region, promises an experience unlike any other in the Himalayas.
“The HIDDEN KINGDOM,” commonly known as Upper Mustang, is the upper part of the Mustang. It comprises the northern two-thirds of the Mustang district in Gandaki Province. That is the name of the southern third (lower Mustang) of the district.
The place is a homeland of the Thakali language combining Nepali and Tibetan cultures. Mustang has been publicly open to foreign visitors since 1992. However, there is still high restriction to the upper Mustang, and requires a separate permit to enter. Geographically being a part of the Tibetan Plateau, the Upper Mustang Trek is quite similar to trekking in Tibet.
The journey begins with a lovely flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, a charming hamlet in the Kali Gandaki Valley. From Jomsom, take a walk along the Kali Gandaki River. As you climb higher, the view changes to a stark, dry landscape. It features multicolored cliffs, wind-eroded valleys, and large swaths of barren plain.
The old walled city of Lo Manthang, Mustang’s capital, is one of the Upper Mustang Trek’s key highlights. This fortified city is home to the former King’s palace, monasteries with stunning frescoes, and small alleys that wind through a maze of medieval buildings. Exploring Lo Manthang provides insight into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Upper Mustang Trek is a restricted area trek that requires a special permit. This exclusivity boosts the sense of adventure and exploration. You travel along secluded paths, encountering fewer people. You also enjoy a serene and true Himalayan experience.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1- Arrival at Kathmandu
Day 2- Kathmandu- Pokhara (25 minutes flight)
Day 3- Pokhara – Jomsom - Kagbeni
Day 4- Kagbeni- chele (5-6 hours walk)
Day 5- Chele- Zhaite (7-8 hours)
Day 6- Trek from Zhaite to Charang via Dhakmar and LoGekar(5-6 hours walk)
Day 7- Trek from Charang to Lo Manthang (explore the ancient city, (5-6 hours walk)
Day 8- Trek from Lo Manthang - Dhakmar via Lo Gekar, (6-7hours walk)
Day 9-Trek from Dhakmar – Gelling, (4-5 hours walk)
Day 10- Trek from Geling - Chuksang, (7-8 hours walk)
Day 11- Chuksang - Jomsom, (5-6 hours walk)
Day 12- Jomsom – Pokhara (25 minutes flight)
Day 13- Pokhara – Kathmandu
Day 14- Kathmandu Free day
Day 15- Departure