A trek to the less-trodden region of Upper Mustang offers a rare chance to witness rich Tibetan culture at its best. This region remained a part of Nepal for centuries, which helped preserve its distinct cultural heritage.
The locals here were born at altitude, much like Sherpas in Everest Region, which has contributed to their strong connection to their ancestors and their unrivalled devotion to their culture.
Weather
The weather conditions at Upper Mustang Trek vary widely depending on the time of year. During the summer months (June to August), you can expect sunny days and a pleasant climate.
During winter, however, the weather can be very cold. Temperatures can drop to below freezing at night, making trekking difficult.
You can also expect occasional snowfall during these months. It can make trekking more difficult and can cause flight delays if the trails are wet.
The best time to trek in Upper Mustang is in spring, which offers a perfect balance of moderate temperatures and good visibility. This is also a great opportunity to explore beautiful landscapes and an untouched Tibetan culture.
Permits
Upper Mustang is a unique trekking destination that centers on cultural exploration. Its remoteness and dramatic semi-arid landscape are unlike any other in Nepal, making it an incredibly fascinating experience.
To enter the restricted area of Upper Mustang, trekkers must have two permits issued by a registered Nepali trekking agency. These include Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
For RAP, you will need to have two people in your group who are non-Nepali with a valid tourist visa and a copy of their passports and photos.
A licensed Nepali trekking agency will obtain these documents from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara. You will then need to pay a USD $500 fee for the permit and a TIMS card.
Weather
The weather conditions at Upper Mustang Trek vary widely depending on the time of year. During the summer months (June to August), you can expect sunny days and a pleasant climate.
During winter, however, the weather can be very cold. Temperatures can drop to below freezing at night, making trekking difficult.
You can also expect occasional snowfall during these months. It can make trekking more difficult and can cause flight delays if the trails are wet.
The best time to trek in Upper Mustang is in spring, which offers a perfect balance of moderate temperatures and good visibility. This is also a great opportunity to explore beautiful landscapes and an untouched Tibetan culture.
Permits
Upper Mustang is a unique trekking destination that centers on cultural exploration. Its remoteness and dramatic semi-arid landscape are unlike any other in Nepal, making it an incredibly fascinating experience.
To enter the restricted area of Upper Mustang, trekkers must have two permits issued by a registered Nepali trekking agency. These include Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
For RAP, you will need to have two people in your group who are non-Nepali with a valid tourist visa and a copy of their passports and photos.
A licensed Nepali trekking agency will obtain these documents from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara. You will then need to pay a USD $500 fee for the permit and a TIMS card.
Trekking Package
Upper Mustang Trek is one of the most interesting and exciting trekking destinations in Nepal. It is a moderate trek that can be done by both experienced and novice trekkers.
A trip to this off-the-beaten-path region is the best way to explore a hidden Buddhist kingdom that resembles Tibet, and is surrounded by soaring snow peaks. You’ll find sculpted canyons, medieval villages, and ancient fortresses carved into the rock along with Tibetan Buddhist gompa and hermitages.
Getting to this remote part of the country involves flights from Pokhara and Jomsom. You’ll also need a restricted area permit and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
Cost
Upper Mustang Trek and Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek are the most remote treks in Nepal, and it has a unique mix of both Nepali and Tibetan culture. The arid landscape and red mountains add to the experience of trekking in this area.
The cost of trekking in this region varies between US$ 1500 and US$ 3500 per person depending on the services and itinerary. Booking through a local travel agency can be cheaper.
A guide is generally included in the cost of a Mustang Trek package. The cost of the trek will also include trekking gear, food, lodging, and miscellaneous expenses.
You can expect to pay around US$ 500 per day for the first ten days of your trip, plus the cost of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit (ACAP). This price is included in the total package you book.
Weather
Upper Mustang is a unique trekking destination, and its weather conditions can be different from those of other parts of Nepal. Due to its high altitude, trekkers should acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
The best time to trek in the region is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is usually mild and stable.
During this period, you can enjoy crystalline peaks and pretty weather without having to worry about the rain. The scenery is dotted with blooming wildflowers, and the views of the Himalayas are spectacular.
Season
Depending on the season, Upper Mustang Trek can be an exciting and memorable experience. However, the weather conditions can be unpredictable and changes in the temperature may cause a lot of discomfort for trekkers.
In general, the best time to trek Upper Mustang is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). These seasons provide stable and pleasant weather.
Upper Mustang is considered a moderate trekking route and does not require extraordinary fitness levels or prior trekking experience. However, a few months of hiking and other exercise routines can be helpful in preparing your body for the changing altitudes.
Accommodations
Unlike other trekking destinations in Nepal, Upper Mustang is not only characterized by its breathtaking landscape but also by a distinct Tibetan culture. This remote and isolated region is also home to several ancient monasteries, caves, and Gompas.
Most accommodations on the Upper Mustang Trek are in tea houses that provide lodging on the walking trail. These houses are traditionally made of brick and mud.
Many of these tea houses have single or double rooms with small cots, mattresses, pillows, and sheets. They may or may not have a toilet and shower.
