Upper Mustang Overland Tour

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour offers a remarkable trekking adventure through Nepal’s remote and captivating landscapes. This private excursion, led by an experienced guide, takes participants to the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, where they can engage with the local Thakali community and explore charming villages. With accommodations, meals, and necessary permits included, the trek is perfect for those seeking a blend of cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty in a high-altitude environment. While the moderately challenging trek may not be for the faint of heart, the rewards of this unique journey are sure to leave a lasting impression on those who embark on it.

Key Points

• The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is a private guided trekking experience in the remote, high-altitude region of Upper Mustang, northwestern Nepal.
• The tour includes essential permits, comfortable accommodation, meals, and an experienced English-speaking guide to explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang.
• Participation requires a moderate fitness level and is not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as back problems or heart conditions.
• The tour provides an opportunity to interact with the local Thakali people and trek through picturesque villages, while experiencing the captivating landscapes of Upper Mustang.
• Proper gear, gradual acclimatization, and necessary travel documents are crucial for preparing and ensuring a safe and enjoyable tour experience.

Tour Overview

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is a private tour/activity that typically departs from Kathmandu, Nepal. The tour has an overall rating of 4.0 based on 2 reviews.

Priced from $2,525.00, the tour includes an English-speaking, experienced government-licensed trekking guide, airport transfers, accommodation in tea house lodges, hotels in Pokhara and Kathmandu, and most meals.

The tour also covers necessary restricted area trekking permits and conservation entry ticket fees. However, travel insurance, emergency evacuation costs, and personal trekking gear are excluded.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate physical fitness level, as it’s not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.

Inclusions

Typically, the Upper Mustang Overland Tour includes an English-speaking, experienced government-licensed trekking guide to support the group.

Airport transfers, such as pickup and drop-off upon arrival and departure, are provided.

Accommodation includes tea house lodges during the tour, a hotel in Pokhara on a bed and breakfast basis before and after the tour, and a hotel in Kathmandu.

Meals consist of 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners, and snacks.

The necessary restricted area trekking permit and conservation entry ticket fee are also included in the tour.

Exclusions

Traveler’s insurance and emergency evacuation costs are excluded from the tour package. Any additional costs incurred due to personal, natural, or political reasons are also not covered.

Travelers will need to bring their own personal trekking gear, such as hiking boots, layered clothing, and other necessary equipment. These exclusions ensure that the package remains affordable while providing a comprehensive experience.

It’s important for travelers to be aware of these exclusions so they can budget accordingly and be prepared for the trek. The exclusions are straightforward and align with the tour’s objective of providing a well-rounded Upper Mustang experience.

Health and Safety

Wheelchair-bound you can’t partake in this tour due to the terrain’s inaccessibility.

Infants must sit on laps during the journey.

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with heart conditions or other serious medical issues.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the trek can be strenuous at times.

Participants should consult their healthcare providers before booking the tour to ensure they’re fit enough to undertake the physically demanding aspects.

Safety is a top priority, and the tour operator will provide guidance on necessary precautions throughout the journey.

Booking and Confirmation

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, unless the tour is within 5 days of the travel date. In that case, confirmation is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability.

This Upper Mustang Overland Tour is non-refundable, with no refunds for cancellations. Travelers must select a pickup point and the tour starts at 7:15 am. The meeting and pickup location is an important consideration when booking this adventure.

Location and Accessibility

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour takes place in the remote and rugged region of Upper Mustang, located in the northwestern corner of Nepal.

This high-altitude area, with its dramatic landscapes and unique cultural heritage, is accessible only with a special permit.

The tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, and infants must sit on laps during the journey.

Travelers with certain medical conditions, such as back problems, heart issues, or pregnancy, are advised not to participate due to the moderate physical fitness required.

Tour Highlights

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour offers a remarkable journey through Nepal’s remote and captivating landscapes. Trekkers will be accompanied by an experienced, English-speaking guide who can share insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour includes essential permits, comfortable accommodation, and delectable meals.

Highlights of the journey include:

• Exploring the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Mustang
• Witnessing the stunning Mustang landscape, characterized by dramatic canyons, eroded cliffs, and arid high-altitude deserts
• Visiting centuries-old monasteries and learning about Tibetan Buddhist practices
• Interacting with the friendly and resilient local Thakali people
• Trekking through picturesque villages and enjoying panoramic mountain vistas.

Preparing for the Tour

Preparing for the Upper Mustang Overland Tour requires careful planning and attention to the necessary preparations. Trekkers should ensure they have the proper gear, such as warm clothing, hiking boots, and sun protection. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so it’s crucial to acclimate gradually and stay hydrated. Obtaining the necessary permits and travel documents in advance is also essential. To help travelers prepare, here are some key considerations:

Essentials	Packing Tips	Health Precautions	Travel Documents
Warm layers	Lightweight, quick-drying fabrics	Acetazolamide medication	Passport
Sturdy hiking boots	Minimal personal items	Proper hydration	Trekking permit
Sun protection	Durable, versatile clothing	Altitude sickness monitoring	Travel insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s group size is not explicitly stated. However, as it’s a private tour/activity, the group size is typically small and can be tailored to the traveler’s preferences. The specifics would need to be confirmed with the tour operator.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are no specific age restrictions for this tour, but it’s not recommended for infants or travelers with certain medical conditions. The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can generally be customized to suit the traveler’s preferences. However, this may incur additional costs and require advanced notice to accommodate logistical changes. It’s best to consult with the tour provider for specific customization options and associated fees.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy for this tour is non-refundable. No refunds are provided for cancellations. Customers should be aware of this policy before booking the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Pack Animals or Horses?

The tour does not allow participants to bring their own pack animals or horses. The tour provides necessary support staff and transportation as specified in the tour inclusions. Travelers must rely on the tour-provided services.

Recap

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour offers a remarkable trekking experience through Nepal’s remote and captivating landscapes. Guided by an experienced English-speaker, travelers can explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, interact with the local Thakali people, and marvel at the stunning natural beauty of this high-altitude region. With essential inclusions and permits, this moderately challenging trek is an exceptional opportunity to take in the cultural heritage and breathtaking scenery of Upper Mustang.