Upper Mustang Trekking

The Upper Mustang region of Tibetan influence north of Kagbeni is generally referred to as Upper Mustang. The ancient Kingdom of Mustang – the capital Lo Manthan was attached to Tibet in the 14th century, although it retained its identity as an autonomous dynasty throughout the centuries – is a walled city where people still remain predominantly Tibetan. Still somewhat restricted (special permits are required) the trek to Lo Manthan (3730 m) refers to the arid Tibet-like region at the northern end of Kali Gandaki. Annexed by Nepal in the 17th century, but untouched by the outside world. 14th-century monasteries still remain active to preserve this magnificent Trans-Himalayan kingdom, with their unrivaled Buddhist shrines with cliff-hanging monasteries, thangkas, mandalas, and deities, and cave-dwelling people. In this wild lunar landscape of unreal color and beauty, ruggedly carved mountains reach up to deep blue skies, while icy peaks glimmer majestically to the south. Vast and barren ridges extend to the northern horizon making one feel like an insignificant dot on a timeless landscape.

Upper Mustang Trekking was only opened to foreigners in 1992 and has been strictly regulated ever since. Trekkers are not common here which is why this trek provides such a rare and up-close look at a society that has remained unaffected by change for centuries. Unfortunately, there is a high price to pay to have such an experience. The Permit cost the U.S. $500 hundred dollars per person for 10 days and usually, the trek starts from Jomsom, where you can reach by plane from Pokhara or reserved 4 wheel drive. Trekking in Mustang is truly one of the most rewarding experiences in all Nepal.