Upper Mustang Trek

Set over 16 days, TheUpper MustangTrek offers a remarkable Trekking experience into the remote and exquisiteTrans-Himalayan Mountains.Situated on the Tibetan Plataubetween the provinces of Dolpoand Manang, the Mustang region reserves some of the last remnants of the traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture. The Upper Mustang trek is open to only a few select trekking groups each year, which makes trekking in the area a highly exclusive experience. It follows a well-known trail through villages that once functioned as a trade route from Tibet to Nepal. Passing through high passes, alpine valleys, deep gullies and rock shelves edged by snowy peaks, this exotic adventure is sure to be etched into your memory forever.

The trek starts and ends in Pokhara, Nepals second largest town with beautiful views of the Annapurna mountains and the majestic tourist area of Fewa Lake side. The next morning we take a scenic flight to Jomsom where the trekking adventure really begins. A 3-4 hour trek brings us to Kagbeni, a quaint village at the gateway of Mustang, but to pass beyond this point requires a specific permit. We spend the night in Kagbeni and prepare ourselves for the following day. After everything is finalised, we set off east along the bank of the river over a sequence of small mountain ridges. Across the river we can views of the Kang Gompa.

Crossing over to the east bank of the river, we ascend to the village of Chele. Immediately, you can feel a strong sense of Tibetanculture with the traditional looking houses and their decorations. From Chele we make our way to Syanboche, passing through harsh but beautiful countryside. The trails edges host cool streams and juniper trees which are make great stops for taking a break and capturing the surroundings. From Syanboche we make our way to Ghaymi and onto Charang, over the Nyi La pass at 3850m, which is the highest point of the trek so far and the southern boundary of Lo. As we arrive at Charang we are greeted with a big white Dzong and a red Gompa. Climbing up the ridge to 3800m, we experience the first view of the walled city of Lo Manthang. The trail descends to a running stream and then climbs onto the plateau where the extraordinary city is located. Boarded by white washed walls, Lo Manthang is home to 4 magnificent Gompas and The palace of the raja and his rani. We allow a day to explore this majestic walled city and take in the superb Tibetan culture. From Lo Manthang, we head south to Ghami and continue down the valley to Samar where we re-join with the trail used enter the Mustang region. Tracing the trail along the Kali Gandaki River back to Kagbeni, we take in the remains of the beautiful scenery before the 5 hour trek back to Jomsom which then brings us back to Pokhara.

We have allowed two full days to explore this outstanding historical and cultural centre. There are 4 major Gompas to visit during our stay. The palace is the home of the raja and his rani (queen).. The town itself is fascinating, and offers countless opportunities to observe a vibrant Tibetan culture.