How is Mustang Trek?
Mustang Trek takes you to the trans-Himalayan semi-arid region of north Nepal. The terrain is barren, dry, and colorful. Eroded cliffs, deep gorges, and sculpted canyons mark the land. Although the Mustang region looks like a desert, it is not desolate but teems with history, culture, and local hospitality.
The Mustang Region Trek differs from other Himalayan treks because of its unique geology, isolated trails, and ancient cultural settlements.
Trekkers in Mustang trek walk through moderate altitudes. Most of the Mustang Region ranges from 2,800 to 4,200 meters. The weather remains stable during the monsoon, making the ideal time for this trek during the summer. Spring and autumn are also suitable seasons with good weather and clear skies.
Popular Mustang Trekking Trails
The most renowned trek in the Mustang region is the Upper Mustang Trek. It goes to Lo Manthang, the walled capital of the now-defunct Mustang Kingdom. Depending on the itinerary, the trek requires 10 to 14 days.
The Lower Mustang Trek is shorter and easier in the Mustang region. It passes through Kagbeni, Jomsom, Muktinath, and Marpha. These places fall along the iconic Annapurna Circuit but provide a flavor of Mustang's unique culture.
Some trekkers combine the Upper Mustang Trek with the Damodar Kunda Trail, a pilgrims' trek to sacred high-altitude lakes. Some take the Nar Phu to Mustang Traverse, which crosses isolated passes and connects lesser-visited regions.
Key Highlights of Mustang Trek
- Explore Lo Manthang, the ancient walled city.
- Chhoser Caves, which were excavated into cliff sides, were once meditation rooms and homes.
- Explore centuries-old monasteries like Thubchen and Jampa Lhakhang.
- Walk through the Kali Gandaki River Valley, the deepest gorge in the world.
- Visit colorful festivals like Tiji, a three-day celebration in Lo Manthang.
- Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, which is holy to Hindus and Buddhists.
- Trek through wind-eroded canyons, sheer cliffs, and painted rock formations.
- Walk through traditional Tibetan-style villages, apple orchards, and salt caravans.
Major Sites to Visit in the Mustang Region
- Lo Manthang: Cultural capital with palaces, gompas, and narrow streets.
- Chhoser: Renowned for sky caves and the Nyphu Monastery.
- Ghar Gompa: One of Nepal's oldest Tibetan monasteries.
- Kagbeni: Spiritual and scenic village at the edge of Upper Mustang.
- Marpha: Famed for apple orchards and traditional white houses.
- Jomsom: Gateway town with an airport, lodges, and museums.
Transportation Options for Mustang Trek
Trekkers usually begin their Mustang Region trek from Pokhara. You can fly from Pokhara to Jomsom, the gateway to Mustang, in a short flight. Alternatively, you can go by jeep through Beni, Tatopani, and Kagbeni. Flights save time and offer breathtaking mountain views.
Trekkers must have a special restricted area permit to visit the Upper Mustang. Trekking can be done only with a registered guide and two or more trekkers in a group.
Accommodation in Mustang Region Trek
Teahouses and lodges can be found along the Mustang trek trails. They provide basic facilities, hot food, and clean rooms. Most lodges are available for dal bhat, Tibetan bread, noodles, tea, and yak cheese. More luxurious guesthouses with improved services can be found in Lo Manthang and Jomsom, which are relatively more developed.
Camping trekking is possible in rural areas or on some itineraries, like Damodar Kunda. Trekkers doing the Mustang trek can also be accommodated in homestays in some villages, with more cultural exchange.
People, Culture, and Civilization
The people of the Mustang region are mainly of the Lopa community. Their culture is of Tibetan origin. Most of them speak a Tibetan dialect and follow Tibetan Buddhism. Villages are full of mani walls, chortens, and prayer wheels.
Agriculture, animal husbandry, and trade form the basis of life in the Mustang region. People grow barley, potatoes, buckwheat, and apples. Monasteries hold great religious importance. Festivals and ceremonies are part of daily life.
Protected Areas and Required Permits
The Mustang region is part of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). Two permits are needed for the Mustang trek: the ACAP entry permit and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Upper Mustang.
The RAP costs USD 500 per person for 10 days, and extra days cost USD 50 per day. Lower Mustang does not require the RAP.
Mustang Region Trekking offers a surreal experience, unlike any other region in Nepal. The desert landscapes, Tibetan culture, ancient villages, and mystical atmosphere make the Mustang trek a lifetime experience.
The Mustang Trek offers all this and more if you seek culture, spirituality, or natural beauty. Plan well, get the proper permits, and trek with a licensed guide. During your trek in Nepal, you will experience history, religion, and nature's raw art.
