The Upper Mustang Trek stands as an extraordinary adventure within the remote western Himalayan region of Nepal. This remarkable trek, offered by Redrose Travel, beckons trekkers to uncover the hidden beauty of this unique destination. Geographically distinct from other parts of Nepal, Upper Mustang is situated in the Trans-Himalayan region, and it is believed to have once been an ancient seabed. One notable characteristic of Upper Mustang is its status as a rain shadow area, ensuring a perpetually dry climate throughout the year. The stark, desert-like landscapes here bear a striking resemblance to Tibet's Ngari region.
The ethnic tapestry of Mustang is diverse, with Thakalis, Gurungs, and Tibetans forming the majority, alongside Bhotiya, Tamang, Limbu, and other ethnic groups. Tibetan Buddhism holds sway as the primary religion, with numerous Gompas, chortens, mani walls, and other Buddhist landmarks dotting the landscape.
Trekking through Mustang offers awe-inspiring views of majestic mountains, verdant pastures, dramatic canyons, local villages, and various natural landscapes. Here, people continue to embrace their traditional way of life, largely untouched by modern influences. The rich cultural heritage and traditional lifestyle of the region are bound to captivate anyone who visits.
The pervasive influence of Tibetan culture and heritage is unmistakable, with accommodations typically found in local tea houses constructed from mud and stone. The trek's path leads you into uncharted territories, away from the well-trodden paths, where you'll encounter warm hospitality and a genuine welcome from the locals.
The Upper Mustang Trek itinerary commences with a scenic bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara, passing through picturesque hilly terrain. From Pokhara, a breathtaking flight transports you to Jomsom (2743m), offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. The trek then begins with a journey to Kagbeni (2800m), a renowned settlement near Jomsom. The following day, you continue to Chele (3050m) and then progress to Syangboche (3800m) before reaching Ghami (3520m).
Your trek ventures through the rainshadow area of Tsaran (3560m) before arriving at Lo Manthang (3840m), an ancient kingdom within Upper Mustang and one of the trek's main attractions. This diverse region, ripe for exploration, captivates travelers with its numerous religious landmarks, including chortens, mani walls, and the ruins of ancient palaces.
Following your exploration of Lo-Manthang, you retrace your steps along the same route, passing through Dhamkar (3820m) on your way to Syangbochen, via Chussang (2980m). The journey concludes in Jomsom, and from there, you take another scenic flight back to Pokhara. Finally, a picturesque bus ride transports you from Pokhara to Kathmandu, completing this unforgettable trekking experience.
