Set out on a 10-day journey from Pokhara to the stunning Upper Mustang region, a hidden gem nestled in the Himalayas. Trekkers will enjoy the rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage, explore the historic capital of Lo-Manthang, and witness the region’s well-preserved culture and traditions. With comfortable accommodations, all meals, and an English-speaking guide, this trek offers an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of this remote Himalayan destination. Discover the captivating charm that awaits as you…
Key Points
- Start the 10-day Upper Mustang trek with a scenic flight or private vehicle transfer from Pokhara to Jomsom, the starting point of the adventure.
- Journey through stunning Himalayan landscapes, immersing in the well-preserved Tibetan culture and traditions, and exploring the historic former capital of Mustang Kingdom, Lo-Manthang.
- Enjoy all-inclusive services, such as airport pick-up, accommodation in tea houses, professional English-speaking guide, and all meals during the trek.
- Trekking experience is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments, and personal expenses and tips are excluded from the package.
- Conclude the trek by retracing the steps through remote landscapes, with a sense of achievement and the anticipation of returning to the vibrant hub of Pokhara.
Trek Overview
The Short Upper Mustang Trek is a 10-day adventure that takes trekkers through the ancient Tibetan Buddhist kingdom of Upper Mustang, with a cost starting from K35,379 per person.
It features a cancellation policy offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, trekkers will explore this remote and restricted area, seeing the rich cultural heritage and stunning Himalayan landscapes.
Whether you’re seeking a Tibetan cultural experience or a remote Himalayan adventure, this trek offers a comprehensive and memorable journey through one of Nepal’s most captivating regions.
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Trek Highlights
In an article titled ‘From Pokhara: Short Upper Mustang Trek 10 Days’, it’s now time to discuss the trek highlights.
Trekkers can explore the ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions of Upper Mustang on this immersive journey. They’ll visit the historic capital of Lo-Manthang, interact with hospitable locals, and experience the remote Himalayan adventure of traversing restricted area trails.
The highlights of this trek include:
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Discovering the well-preserved Tibetan culture and traditions of the region
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Witnessing the stunning Himalayan landscapes and remote trails
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Engaging with the friendly locals and learning about their way of life
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Exploring the ancient city of Lo-Manthang, the former capital of the Mustang Kingdom
Itinerary Breakdown
In this 10-day trek through the remote Upper Mustang region, the journey begins with a flight to Jomsom, followed by a trek to the village of Kagbeni, situated at an altitude of 2,800 meters.
From there, the trekkers ascend to Chele at 3,050 meters, then continue on to Geling at 3,440 meters and Tsarang at 3,490 meters.
The highlight of the trek is the visit to Lo-Manthang, the ancient capital of Upper Mustang, at an elevation of 3,730 meters.
The return journey takes trekkers through Ghami, Chele, and finally back to Jomsom before the flight to Pokhara.
Each day’s trek presents stunning Himalayan landscapes and opportunities to immerse in the rich Tibetan Buddhist culture of this remote region.
Inclusions
In this trek package, travelers can expect a comprehensive experience. This trek includes airport pick-up by private vehicle, transportation between Pokhara and Jomsom via private vehicle or flight, and accommodation at the best tea houses along the trekking route.
Plus, the package includes:
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A professional English-speaking guide, trained by the government of Nepal, to ensure a seamless and informative journey.
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Travel and rescue arrangements, should they be required, to prioritize the safety and well-being of the trekkers.
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Necessary paperwork and special permits, such as the ACAP and TIMS Card, to access the restricted areas of Upper Mustang.
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All meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, during the trek to maintain energy and morale.
Exclusions and Restrictions
While the trek package includes a wealth of services, there are some exclusions and restrictions to keep in mind.
Personal expenses like phone calls, mineral water, bar bills, hot showers, battery recharges, extra porters, and gear aren’t covered. Plus, tips for guides and porters aren’t included in the package price.
Finally, the trek may not be suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments. It’s essential to be aware of these exclusions and restrictions to avoid any unexpected costs or challenges during the trek.
Proper preparation and budgeting can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the Short Upper Mustang Trek.
Getting to Jomsom
From Pokhara: Short Upper Mustang Trek 10 Days
Getting to Jomsom
The journey to the trailhead begins with a flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, the gateway to Upper Mustang. Travelers can opt for a private vehicle transfer or a scenic flight, which offers stunning aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
The flight to Jomsom is an exhilarating experience in itself, providing a breathtaking panorama of the Himalayan peaks. Once in Jomsom, trekkers can enjoy the local culture, preparing for the adventure that lies ahead.
The short trek to Kagbeni marks the start of the journey, setting the tone for the exploration of the remote and captivating Upper Mustang region.
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Scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom
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Private vehicle transfer available
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Jomsom, the starting point of the trek
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Prepare for the adventure ahead in Jomsom
Exploring Lo-Manthang
After trekking through the remote Himalayan landscapes, trekkers reach the ancient walled city of Lo-Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Mustang.
This historic site, dating back to the 15th century, serves as the highlight of the Upper Mustang trek, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions that have endured for centuries.
Visitors can explore the iconic Tibetan-style buildings, visit the revered monasteries, and interact with the hospitable local residents, gaining insight into their traditional way of life.
With its well-preserved heritage and stunning natural surroundings, Lo-Manthang offers a truly immersive and unforgettable cultural experience for trekkers on the Upper Mustang trek.
Return to Pokhara
From Pokhara: Short Upper Mustang Trek 10 Days
Return to Pokhara
Upon completing their exploration of the ancient city of Lo-Manthang, trekkers embark on the return journey through the remote Himalayan landscapes towards Pokhara.
The trek back retraces their steps, offering a chance to revisit the picturesque valleys, charming villages, and striking rock formations that captivated them on the way up.
As they descend, trekkers are rewarded with:
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Breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks
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Opportunities to interact with the hospitable local communities
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A sense of accomplishment for conquering the challenges of high-altitude trekking
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Anticipation for the comforts of Pokhara, a vibrant hub of adventure and relaxation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Do This Trek?
The best time to trek in Upper Mustang is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) seasons. These periods offer mild temperatures, clear skies, and ideal conditions for exploring the region’s unique Tibetan culture and landscapes.
How Difficult Is the Trek on a Scale of 1 to 5?
The trek is moderately challenging, rated around a 3-4 out of 5 on the difficulty scale. It involves several long, high-altitude days of hiking with significant elevation gains, making it suitable for moderately fit trekkers with some prior experience.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?
Yes, the trek can be customized to suit your preferences. The tour operator is typically flexible and open to adjusting the itinerary, within reason, to accommodate your desired pace, interests, and fitness level.
What Is the Average Group Size for This Trek?
The average group size for this Short Upper Mustang Trek is typically small, around 2-6 participants. This allows for a more intimate and personalized trekking experience in the remote Himalayan region of Upper Mustang.
Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements I Should Consider?
Hikers should communicate any special dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or food allergies, to the tour operator ahead of time. The operator can accommodate most requirements to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience.
Recap
The Upper Mustang Trek from Pokhara offers an unforgettable adventure through the stunning Himalayan landscapes and rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage of the region.
Trekkers will explore the historic capital of Lo-Manthang, enjoy the well-preserved culture and traditions, and enjoy comfortable accommodations and meals while experiencing the unique charm of this remote Himalayan destination.
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