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Exploring a magnificent picturesque, a dramatic desert landscape and a culturally distinct region of Upper Mustang during Upper Mustang Trek.
Mustang is the old kingdom of Lo. The official capital of the Mustang district is Jomsom, but the real Tibetan style district lies north of Kagbeni and is usually referred to as Upper Mustang. The spectacular eastern side Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalaya making it an ideal region to explore. The region is located to the north of the mountain giants of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna and therefore lies ‘behind’ the main Himalayan range and geographically is part of the highlands of Tibet. It is a vast high arid valley, characterized by eroded canyons, colorful stratified rock formations and has a barren, desert-like appearance.
Trekking groups were only allowed in for the first time in March 1992, and only a small number of trekkers visit this remote outpost of Nepal each year. Recognizing the special nature and distinct Tibetan culture of this old, tiny kingdom, the Nepalese have imposed a surcharge for anyone wishing to trek past Kagbeni, the border of Upper Mustang. One of the most fascinating features of Mustang is literally thousands of cliff dwellings, some of which look completely inaccessible. The most recent theory is that they may date from 8-10,000 BC when Mustang was a much greener land.
Mustang is a district that is situated in the northern part of Nepal. Mustang Nepal is famous for so many things. When you trek in Mustang Nepal, you will get to witness not just the various natural spectacles, but also numerous religious heritages. One of the best things about Mustang Nepal is the numerous Mustang Village. The people who live in these Mustang Village are indigenous to the region. They are known to have their own unique culture and tradition, and it is an absolute pleasure to get to experience their lifestyle. You could witness all of these and many more during your stay there. The best way to experience Mustang Village is Upper Mustang Trek.
The capital of Mustang is Jomsom. Jomsom Nepal is a small town that is beautiful and peaceful. Jomsom Nepal is situated at the bank of Kaligandaki river. Located quite close to the town are the numerous mountains of the Annapurna region. It almost seems as if the town is positioned in their laps. Jomsom Nepal is the perfect blend of ancient history and modernity. You will find all the modern facilities here, and also you will get to witness buildings with historical architecture. The people here still follow the same traditions that they used to centuries ago. During Upper Mustang Trek, you can visit the local Museum here to get to know about the region overall.
When it comes to exploring the region, and not just Jomsom Nepal, the best way to do it is by going on the trek, and there are two main trekking options here. The entire region can be divided into two sections. The upper section towards the north, and the lower section towards the south. The former one is called Upper Mustang, and the lower one is called Lower Mustang. What separates them is the town of Jomsom. The two areas are totally different from each other. When you make your way from Lower Mustang to Upper Mustang, you will feel as if you’ve entered a different country altogether. There is a story that unfolds the Upper Mustang.
Decades ago, Upper Mustang existed as a separate country all together, with its own monarch, history, language, customs and traditions, and so on. Since it was at the border of Nepal and Tibet, it shared so many similarities with these countries. The capital of Upper Mustang was Lo Manthang, which still exists in the form of a small town. It hasn’t been long that Upper Mustang got annexed into Nepal. Lower Mustang, on the other hand, had always been a part of Nepal. If you are willing to explore Upper Mustang, you’d have to go for Upper Mustang trek, and if you’re looking to explore Lower Mustang, you’ll have to go for Lower Mustang Trek.
Upper Mustang Trek is a 18 days long journey. It starts and ends at Jomsom. Upper Mustang trek is one of the best options for trekking in Nepal, as it offers you the best that the country has to offer. Since the trek covers Lo Manthang, it is also known as Lo Manthang trek. During the Lo Manthang trek, you will cover places such as Kagbeni, Chele, Tsarang, Ghami, Drakmar, and so on. As mentioned above, you will find the language spoken here and the cultures followed here quite different from that of other parts of Nepal, even Lower Mustang. This difference is what makes exploring the region quite fun. Upper Mustang trek is trekking in Nepal at its best.
Lower Mustang trek, on the other hand, is a 14 days long journey. The major places that you would cover during this time are Kalopani, Tatopani, Marpha, Tadapani, and so on. The prominent attractions of Lower Mustang trek are Jomsom and Muktinath. Muktinath is a religious heritage sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. It is dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Shiva. Because the trek covers these two places, it is also known as Jomsom Muktinath trek. Now, you have the option to make Jomsom Muktinath trek a lot shorter, but if you do that, you won’t get to visit these amazing villages. Both Mustang trek are great journeys to embark on.
During Mustang trek, whether it’s Lower Mustang trek or Upper Mustang trek, you will cover major sections of Annapurna Conservation Area. It is the largest protected area of Nepal, and also one of the richest when it comes to the population of rare and endangered species of plants and animals. Apart from the living beings, the area is also home to uncountable mountains, passes, rivers, lakes, glaciers, forests, waterfalls, and so many other natural spectacles. Most importantly, the numerous villages that you will come across during your treks in the Annapurna region are all included within the Annapurna Conservation Area premises.
When you go for Upper Mustang Trek, it is crucial that you carry Mustang Nepal map. You could carry a map that has the information of only the Upper Mustang region, or you can carry the Mustang Nepal map that includes the details of both Upper and Lower Mustang. It is crucial to carry a Mustang Nepal map because it gives you all the information that you’d require during the journey. The map eliminates all the chances of trekkers getting lost, and even if you do, with the help of the map, you can make your way back. A map also allows you to go on solo treks, as it tells you about the route, and also about all the attractions and challenges that come your way.
Quite like the other parts of the country the best time to visit Mustang Nepal is between the months of November and December. During this time, Mustang weather is at its best, neither too hot nor too cold. Also, there are no clouds in the sky, allowing you to enjoy amazing views of mountains in the Annapurna region. If you don’t care as much about the clarity of Mustang weather, you could go for Upper Mustang trek between the months of March and May as well. The only downside to visiting the region during this time is that you’d have to compromise with the views. If you’re to ignore the views, this is surely the second best time to visit Mustang village.
Upper Mustang trek cost depends on a lot of factors. For instance, the level of luxury offered in the journey when it comes to food, accommodation and transportation, the difference in the itinerary with regards to the places covered, and most importantly, the travel agency that you’ve hired to plan your trip. It is the rule of thumb. Upper Mustang trek cost as proposed by international travel agencies is way higher than the one offered by local travel agencies. Upper Mustang trek cost can range between $1700 to $3900. And if you were to go on both trips, you would realize that there isn’t much difference in the service quality offered in these packages.
Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the best treks in the Annapurna Region. It allows you to cover the entire region in one go. It is a 21 days long journey altogether, and during this time, you get to cover places like Manang, Dharapani, Pisang, Jagat, Chame, and so on. An extraordinary attraction of the trek is Thorung La, which is a high altitude mountain pass situated at an elevation of 5416 m. The views of the mountains like Annapurna, Machapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and so on are the other set of attractions that you’d absolutely adore during your Annapurna Circuit trek. The trip connects with both Lower and Upper Mustang trek at Jomsom.
Saribung Peak Climbing is an extended version of Upper Mustang trek. It also starts from Jomsom, and takes you all the way up to Lo Manthang. However, from there, you head southeast towards the base camp of Saribung Peak. The journey eventually leads you to Nar Phu Valley and then to Dharapani, which falls on the Annapurna Circuit trek route. The trip ends at Bhulbhule. The trek lasts for a period of 27 days. Needless to say, it is one of the toughest treks in Nepal, and one of the factors that makes it tough is Saribung Peak climbing. If you’re to count the day spent for acclimatization, it takes 3 days for a climber to make his way to the top of the peak and back. Saribung Peak’s height is 6328 m. The trip isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.
Happy Holiday Treks & Expedition is a reliable, affordable and experienced travel and tour operator in Nepal. The company was established by a group of individuals who have spent decades working as trekking and expedition guides. They know the ins and outs of the hills and mountains of Nepal, and they realize what can make or break a trip to these places. If you’re looking to visit Nepal, and go for expedition and trekking in Nepal, make sure to choose Happy Holiday Treks and Expedition as your travel partner. You will definitely love their services.
DAY 1 – Arrive Kathmandu. Transfer to Hotel. Overnight Hotel.
DAY 2 – Fly or Drive to Pokhara (827m). Transfer to Hotel. Overnight Hotel. (Meals: B)
DAY 3 – Fly to Jomsom (2,743m) Begin trek to Kagbeni (2,896m) 3½-4 hours. Overnight Tea House. (Meals: B, L, D)
DAY 4 – Trek to Chele (3,050m) 6 hours Overnight Tea House. (Meals: B, L, D)
DAY 5 – Trek to Tamar Gaon (3,700m) 6-7 hours Overnight Tea House. (Meals: B, L, D)
DAY 6 – Trek to Tsarang (3,500m) 6-7 hours. Overnight Tea House. (Meals: B, L, D)
DAY 7 – Trek to Lo Manthang. (3,770m) 4-5 hours Overnight Tea House.
DAY 8 – Lo Mandthang. Exploration day in Lo Manthang. Overnight Tea House.
DAY 9 – Trek to Yara (3,760m) via Dhi 6 hours Overnight Tea House. (Meals: B, L, D)
DAY 10 – Trek to Luri Gompa (3,920m) 6 hours Overnight Tea House. (Meals: B, L, D)
DAY 11 – Trek to Tange (3,370m) 5-6 hours Overnight Tea House. (Meals: B, L, D)
DAY 12 – Trek to Pha (4100m) 6 hours. Overnight Tea House. (Meals: B, L, D)
DAY 13 – Trek to Tetang (3,050m) 6 hours. Overnight Tea House. (Meals: B, L, D)
DAY 14 – Trek to Muktinath (3,810m) 4-5 hours. Overnight Tea House.
DAY 15 – Trek to Jomsom (2,743m) 5-6 hours Overnight Tea House.
DAY 16 – Fly to Pokhara. Overnight Hotel. (Meals: B)
DAY 17 – Fly or drive to Kathmandu. Overnight Hotel. (Meals: B)
DAY 18 – Fly back to HOME.
Departure transfer to the international airport to fly back home.
TREK SERVICE INCLUDE:
· 4 Nights Hotels in Kathamndu and Pokhara on BB Basis
· English speaking trek guide, porter
· Basic but clean comfortable twin share room in local tea-houses
· All meals breakfast, lunch, dinner on trek
· All land transport
· Trek permit & Park entry fees,
· Guide/porter insurance.
Cost Will Not Include:
· Personal equipment
· Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
· Tips
· Client insurance of any kind
· Cost of an emergency evacuation (if any)
· Bottle/alcoholic drinks
· Nepal visa costs;
· Other expenses of personal nature.
What our guest are saying
In December 2011, my husband and I did a 3 trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal followed by 3 days at Chitwan National Park with Everest Trail Walker P. Ltd. (Kuman Gurung). We’re in our mid-sixties and began to question our decision when various friends and family members said that it’d be way too cold and difficult at that time of the year. Actually November and December are excellent months to trek in Nepal as it is normally dry and sunny. Kuman is an excellent choice as he did all the planning, gaining of licenses, arranging for lodging and planning of the length of our trekking days. We liked that he not only planned, but accompanied our group of 6, along with two other wonderful assistants (porter and guide). One needs to understand that Nepal is a third world country, and electricity and warm water become an issue all over the country. Our days were very warm---how I wished I’d brought a short sleeved shirt---and the nights are cold. We hadn’t anticipated that we’d spend much of our time climbing up or down----but Nepal translates to the Himalayas so that’s what you do. (much is rock steps which can be difficult for some) The vistas make stopping often to rest a treasure,----it is beautiful---so beautiful. You are remote and everything is packed into the area---your meals come mainly from the gardens and are delicious! Kuman is willing to tailor the trip’s destination and length to your ability and time frame. He provides one with a most memorable experience, and you come away with a true appreciation of the country and people. He also arranged our stays in Katmandu and 3 days in the Chitwan National Park. You begin and end your trek in Pokhara and we recommend the Temple Tree Resort and the Moon Dance restaurant as a great way to end your trek. Thank you Kuman for making our adventure in Nepal so perfect!Namaste to Kuman and Lokenra,
I write as the expedition leader of a team of 6 (3 Canadians and 3 Americans) who recently traveled for 1 month in Nepal and Bhutan using the guiding and coordinating services of Everest Trail Walker P. Ltd., in particular Kuman and Lokendra. This was the second expedition which these gentlemen looked after us, the first being in 2010, another month long expedition which featured trekking through the Everest region, a jungle adventure in Chitwan and an extended whitewater rafting trip on the reverred Sun Kosiriver. Our October- November2013 trip featured trekking the Annapurna region, trekking for a week in Bhutan and whitewater rafting 2 rivers - the Kali Gandaki and the BhotoKosi rivers.
Needless to say, the care and expert attention provided by Kuman and Lokendra was exceptional. Every aspect of our trip was handled flawlessly and with good humor and insight of the Nepalese culture and traditions. Over the last 15 years, I have lead many trekking and rafting expeditions around the world and without any qualification I give the highest marks to both Kuman and Lokendra. Not only did we get full value for our money, but it was done with genuine TLC by both these wonderful gentlemen. Even when things went off track ( which in the 3rd world - in truly remote environments - can happen in technicolor - in this case a National Strike of workers) alternate arrangements were undertaken with ease and care - maintaining our schedule and achieving our expedition objectives.
I obviously think highly of Kuman and Lokendra and strongly recommend Happy Holidays as 'the go to' trekking/expedition/rafting company in Nepal.
In this regard, if you require further amplification of my comments I would be pleased to endorse this recommendation via email or telephone. Clearly, if Nepal offers a Tourism Award for best guides/guiding companies, Happy Holidays would be a first prize winner!Dear Kuman,
Happy New Year and Namaste. It has been more than a month since the Team Tim returned home from the experience of a lifetime—organized by you and your company. It was such an amazing trip with so many different aspects to it. We started our adventure in Nepal where you and I first met, then quickly off to Bhutan, and eventually back to Nepal and home. The trip you organized for us contained so many different elements--- hiking, rafting and learning about the cultural aspects of the two countries. It was an organizational nightmare, but everything ran so smoothly under your direction. Tim, Viv and I commented about how smooth the transition was between each activity and country. It really was one of our best adventures.
I was so impressed with the way in which the guides took such very good care of us. They were all so happy to teach us about Buddhism, their country and their politics. I thought it very special how you joined us on the trekking part of the trip. You also went that extra mile when we rafted in Nepal. You followed our route and met us at each stop along the way to feed us, take pictures, carry our “stuff”, or whatever else our team of 6 needed. We all became family ----Lakendra, you, and the 3 Canadian and 3 American travellers.
I know that you and Tim had thousands of emails between you as you planned this extensive trip. Tim you knew from his last trip. He was thrilled that you had opened your own office and that he was able to have you and Lakenda organize and guide the trip respectively.
I would be privileged to serve as a reference for you if a potential client requests it. You receive a five start rating from me.
Thanks again,