Essential Information - Upper Mustang Trek
Benefits of Booking Upper Mustang Trek with Vertex Holiday
- Expert Guidance: Vertex Holiday’s experienced English-speaking local guides who are trained in first aid and altitude sickness management, ensuring safety and enriching the cultural experience.
- Logistical Support: Vertex Holiday handle all necessary permits, internal comfortable transportation, food, accommodation bookings, and porter services, significantly reducing planning stress.
- Acclimatization Planning: Vertex Holiday design itineraries with carefully planned ascent rates and built-in acclimatization days, maximizing the chances of a successful and safe trek.
- 24 Hours Company Assist: Vertex Holiday Team member will assist during the trip.
- Airport pick up & Drop Service: Vertex Holiday will provide personal Airport drop and pick up any time.
- Customize Trip Facility: During the trip some reason cannot get right place that time company and staff help you customize trip.
- Nepali Sim Card: After arrival in Nepal , vertex Holiday provide per person 1 Ncell sim card with 20 GB Data for easy connection
- Free luggage store at Vertex Holiday office Store in Thamel
History of Upper Mustang in Nepal:
During the 16th and 17th centuries, this region was an independent kingdom. However, it is widely accepted that the Kingdom was built in 1380 by a king named Ame Pal. The geographical positioning made this ancient kingdom an important place for controlling trade between Indian Subcontinent and Tibet.
Later in the 18th century, the Kingdom of Lo was annexed to the Kingdom of Nepal, however, it was allowed to continue its age-old monarchy which can be explored during the Upper Mustang Trek.
Despite being part of Nepal, the kingdom of Lo had its own king, and the people of this region followed the decisions of the monarch. In 2008, after the demise of the Monarch in Nepal, the region lost its status as a separate kingdom was also lifted by the government of Nepal. The last official King Jigme Dorje Palbar Bista, was revered as the unofficial king of the Lo kingdom by the people until his Demise in 2016.
Main Attractions point Of upper Mustang Trek:
The Sky Caves of Mustang
During the Upper Mustang Trek, the sky caves are a fascinating site .In 2007 a local shepherd found an interesting cave full of ancient paintings of Gautam Buddha. Since then, thousands of such caves have been found hanging on the cliffs. Popular as Sky caves, these are actually the tombs of late Lama Gurus of the region where several mummified bodies dating as old as two to three thousand years have been found besides other archaeological artifacts.
These artifacts range from non-precious to precious metals and gemstones, along with ancient statues and idols of Buddhist religious culture. Some of the artifacts linked to the ancient Silk Route, originating as far on the west as modern-day Turkey. These sites have been enlisted under UNESCO tentative sites list since 1996.
Several international media, including National Geographic, have made documentaries about these interesting sites. Whereas explorers from the United States of America, Italy, and Nepal have been conducting research operations and has found many historical and religious aspect of the kingdom of Lho.
Some even believe these caves were used as meditation chambers as well as burial chambers. Besides, some explorers suggest that this tradition is related to the Sky Burial tradition, where the body of a deceased one is left on a mountain for the vultures to feed it from.
Upper Mustang Tiji Festival
Upper Mustang Trekking in the upper part of the Annapurna Conservation area is not only known for its spectacular scenery and immense culture but also for its colorful festivals and rituals. Among which Tiji Festival is the main attraction. A glorious event takes place in Lo-Manthang as per the Buddhist Lunar calendar, which falls during the middle of May.
This year in 2022, the year of the tiger, this festival falls from the 27th to the 29th of May Tiji Festival, originally pronounced as ‘Ten Che’ means establishing the world for peace. Also, a victory over evils festival continues for a full three days.
Tiji Festival is celebrated during the beginning of a new spring season and is a blessing for the country, bringing much prosperity and happiness.
Monks in different colorful attire and masks dance to the tune of religious prayer music to dispel evil spirits. The main festival of Tiji is held in Chode Monastery, the main religious center of Lo-Manthang in Upper Mustang. It is during this time most international tourists visit this wonderful vacation destination.
The Hidden Kingdom Of Upper Mustang Geography
Upper Mustang is an extension of the Tibetan plateau geographically, close to the Kora La border pass of Nepal and Tibet. Located in mid-northwest Nepal in the Mustang district of Gandaki Province and Dhaulagiri zone, with Jomsom as the headquarters town.
Mustang is the fifth largest district by area of Nepal, whereas Upper Mustang covers an area of 3,573 sq. km. with longitude and latitude of 28.9985 North and 83.8473 East.
The main occupations of villagers are agriculture and animal husbandry; Upper Mustang is also known as the country behind the Himalayas or as ‘Little Tibet.’ The word Mustang comes from Tibetan ’Möntang’, meaning “fertile land” However, the Upper Mustang is mostly dry and arid, but with cultivated farm areas around villages growing high-altitude crops, like barley, wheat, and buckwheat.
The whole district is within ACAP, the Annapurna Conservation Area Project, one of the largest protected areas of Nepal. The alpine feature of the region allows for the high-altitude species of flora and fauna, including some rare and endangered species, to flourish. Snow leopards, lynxes, brown bears, Tibetan wild asses, and Tibetan argali are among the major animals, whereas Pheasants, Vultures, and other smaller species of birds are also found here.
Upper Mustang Trek Route:
Upper Mustang Trek is an interesting walking journey via the Kaligandaki River gorge amidst towering red canyons and high cliffs. The trek still follows the ancient Trans Himalayan Salt trade route connecting Tibet with the southern regions of the Himalayas.
It is truly an exciting land where a walk takes you from one lovely village to another, lined with exquisite prayer walls and monuments.
Trek to the Forbidden Kingdom of Upper Mustang starts after a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, the windiest place in Nepal. This Himalayan town on the lower Mustang serves as headquarters to the district of Mustang and is well equipped with excellent facilities for food and accommodation along with other commodities.
The Upper Mustang Trek continues along the bank of Kaligandaki River valley, splitting from Kagbeni, a settlement with a rich ancient history. It is from here that Restricted Area Permits (RAP) are required for tourists.
The adventure proceeds crossing the high passes offering magnificent mountain vistas as well as the beautiful landscape of Mustang. Besides, several ethnic villages on the trail provide an important cultural insight along with their warm hospitality.
At Lo-Manthang, the main destination of the trekking trip offers a great tour of the ancient city along with paved roads, a historic royal palace, and several monasteries of Buddhist cultural interest. The smiling faces of the locals will enchant you for a memorable trekking experience.
Besides, the Upper Mustang Trek trip can be extended to Muktinath, a popular pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The shrine is believed to help devotees liberate themselves from sins and attain Nirvana. After wonderful trekking in Upper Mustang, the journey descends back to Jomsom as the conclusion of an epic trip for a scenic flight back to Pokhara.
Food & Accommodation in Upper Mustang Trek:
Food & accommodation are some of the main important features of the Upper Mustang Trek to make the adventure enjoyable and to keep all members fit and healthy. Most villages with standard lodges provide a comprehensive food menu, serving continental, Indian, Tibetan, and Nepali meals or snacks.
All meals are cooked in a hygienic way with a homely environment, vegetables, and fresh vegetables as per the seasons. Some lodge also serves fresh bakeries’ products. In the bigger group will be a set menu to save time and conserve fuel energy.
Accommodation depends upon the size of the villages, most standard lodges with clean and neat rooms, comfortable beds, and mattresses with a friendly local environment. Most lodges around higher areas after Jomsom and Kagbeni will have rooms with common baths and toilets.
The reason is due to the harsh terrain, high altitude, and cold climate, where plumbing systems can freeze to flush running waters. However, lodges will provide excellent services of hot water showers at extra cost. All lodges have a largely warm and cozy dining hall with a friendly and delightful environment.
Best Seasons fro Upper Mustang Trek:
The Best seasons for Upper Mustang trekking start from mid-March to June, around later spring to pre-summer seasons. In autumn/fall, September, and October, when days are clear for views and pleasant walks.
Morning and nighttime, as well as in the shade, get cooler, but the day is fine with brilliant sun lights. Late spring, from the middle of March to June, is another best time when days are longer with enough sunshine with cooler mornings and nighttime.
Interested people can trek during July and August also, where Upper Mustang falls in a rain shadow. The high Himalayan range forms a barrier for black monsoon clouds, and that is why the country is dry and arid most of the year round. From November onwards, the villages will be deserted as Mustang people migrate to a low warmer area to escape the winter cold.
Upper Mustang Trek Preparation:
Before and after booking with Vertex Holiday for Upper Mustang trek, ask for more details and information regarding the best seasons for the trip. The company will provide you with a list of clothing gear and necessary items required for the trek season-wise. For the detailed list, check the Equipment and Packing list.
For the trek, all need to be physically fit and in sound health, as the trek goes into the high altitude arid and dry landscape. Due to the rough terrain and lower concentration of oxygen in the air, it might not be as easy as for the Sherpa and other highlanders of Nepal. However, the trek is mostly gradual ascent decreasing the risks of any altitude-related hazards.
Although medical and travel insurance you’re your native country is mandatory. It should cover hospitalization and emergency rescue using Helicopter services. As prevention is better than cure, one cannot predict any mishaps in the Himalayas.
Some forms of physical exercises prior to the departure date, like jogging, swimming, cycling, Zumba, aerobics, and cardio, are suggested. Guided Yoga and Meditation, including breathing exercises, are also among the best options.
Porters and Guides:
Our guides have more than 5 to 10 years experience leading high-altitude hikes over the Annapurna, Everest and other Himalayan regions and hold government licenses. They have received training in emergency response, first aid, and altitude sickness awareness. The majority of our senior guides have been trekking for more than eight to ten years. In order to keep clients informed about weather and trail conditions and to maintain safety, they also carry satellite phones and other essential communication devices.
Porter welfare is very important to us. No more than 20 to 25 kg of total equipment for two hikers is carried by each porter, and we make sure that each porter has access to:
- Proper attire and footwear for elevated elevations
- Appropriate food and lodging
- Medical and accident insurance
- Equitable compensation in accordance with national norms
- Enough working hours and frequent rest periods will help avoid weariness.
- Instruction on basic first aid and safe carrying procedures
Vertex Holiday Safety Protocols During The Upper Mustang Trek
At Vertex Holiday, your safety is our top concern. We take stringent precautions to guarantee a safe trekking experience, such as routine health examinations and continuous observation of altitude sickness signs while you are hiking. Our guides are prepared to offer emergency care if necessary and are equipped with complete first-aid supplies. In the event of an emergency, we arrange for quick helicopter evacuations; however, the customer or your personal insurance usually covers the evacuation expenses. Our Kathmandu office also offers round-the-clock assistance to help you during your trekking journey.
- Acclimatization briefings and routine health examinations
- First-aid-trained guides with complete medical kits
- Coordination of emergency evacuation transportation or (helicopter if necessary)
- 24/7 assistance from the Vertex Holiday office in Kathmandu
- Small group sizes and dependable communication devices
Special permits and costs for restricted area of Upper Mustang trek:
Upper Mustang Trek was first opened In 1992 and onwards for international visitors. However, it falls under a sensitive zone due to its closeness with The Tibet border, thus making this region a restricted area. Here all Trekkers and travelers require a special permit to enter the Upper Mustang.
Near from Headquarters of Jomsom, Kagbeni village. The special permit cost is 500$ per person for the first 10 days, and then the US $50 per day. This special permit (RAP) will be obtained by Vertex Holiday in addition. The trekkers need another permit for ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project).
For Upper Mustang, one cannot enter as a solo or individual trekker. A minimum of 2 people are required. All interested trekkers must join with reputed trekking agencies led by Government Licensed Guide approved and authorized by the Tourism and Trekking Department of Nepal.
For more information regarding Upper Mustang Trekking and other similar destinations, feel free to contact Vertex Holiday. We organize wonderful holiday trips in the Himalayan country of Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. Besides, custom-tailored itineraries are also available as per the request of our valued clients.
Equipment checklist for the Upper Mustang trek:
As suggested while booking with Vertex Holiday. Normally down Jackets and Sleeping bags are recommended by the company. Personal clothing, water bottles, torch, crampons, and ski poles are essential. Other items to pack are fine and strong trekking boots, snow gaiters, sunglasses, snow goggles, and headwear for sun and cold weather.
A waterproof daypack is also handy in order to carry your essential items, as the luggage is carried by porters and it’s usually hard keeping up with them. For detailed information on the packing list for any trekking trip in Nepal, check the below given details.
Clothing Base:
- Layers 3–4 moisture-wicking T-shirts (synthetic or merino wool)
- 3 thermal base layers (top & bottom)
- Insulation Layers 1 fleece or down jacket
- 1 synthetic insulated jacket (for evenings)
- 1 fleece or wool sweater
- Outer Layers Waterproof and windproof shell jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
- Waterproof pants (for snow or rain)
- Trekking Pants & Shorts 2–3 pairs of trekking pants (lightweight, quick-dry)
- 1 pair of trekking shorts (optional)
- Underwear & Sleepwear 7–8 pairs of moisture-wicking underwear
- 1 pair of thermal sleepwear
Headwear & Handwear:
- Headwear Warm beanie or wool hat
- Sun hat or cap (with neck protection)
- Buff or neck gaiter
- Sunglasses (UV-protected, glacier glasses recommended above 4,000m)
- Lightweight gloves (liner)
- Insulated waterproof gloves (for cold days)
Footwear;
- Broken-in trekking boots (waterproof, ankle support)
- Camp shoes (sandals or Crocs for teahouses)
- 8–9 pairs of trekking socks (wool or synthetic)
- 2–3 pairs of thermal socks
Bags Daypack:
- 25–30L (for daily essentials)
- Rain covers for bags
- Dry bags or ziplocks (to keep clothes and electronics dry)
Sleeping Gear:
- 4-season sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C / 14°F)
- Sleeping bag liner (adds warmth and hygiene)
Personal Items & Accessories:
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder (2–3L total capacity)
- Water purification tablets or filter (e.g., Sawyer, SteriPEN)
- Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, chocolates)
- Lightweight towel
Toiletries (biodegradable soap, toothbrush, etc.) - Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes & toilet paper
- Small first aid kit (with altitude sickness meds like Diamox, ibuprofen, blister care)
Electronics:
- Power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh)
- Charging cables
- Plug adapter (Nepal uses Type C, D, and M sockets)
- Camera or smartphone
Documents :
- Passport + extra passport photos
- Copies of travel insurance (with emergency evacuation)
- Family Contact Person
Optional :
- (but useful) Trekking poles (collapsible, highly recommended)
- Gaiters (for snow or mud)
- Duct tape or repair kit
- Notebook/pen
Upper Mustang Trek Temperature table:
| Location | Season | Months | Day Temperature (°C) | Night Temperature (°C) |
| Jomsom | Spring | March – May | From 15°C to 20°C | From 5°C to 10°C |
| Summer | June – August | From 18°C to 23°C | From 8°C to 12°C |
| Autumn | September – November | From 14°C to 18°C | From 4°C to 8°C |
| Winter | December – February | From 6°C to 12°C | From -2°C to 2°C |
| Chele | Spring | March – May | From 12°C to 16°C | From 2°C to 6°C |
| Summer | June – August | From 15°C to 19°C | From 5°C to 9°C |
| Autumn | September – November | From 10°C to 14°C | From 0°C to 4°C |
| Winter | December – February | From 2°C to 8°C | From -8°C to -2°C |
| Lo Manthang | Spring | March – May | From 18°C to 22°C | From 4°C to 8°C |
| Summer | June – August | From 20°C to 25°C | From 6°C to 10°C |
| Autumn | September – November | From 16°C to 20°C | From 2°C to 6°C |
| Winter | December – February | From 8°C to 14°C | From -4°C to 0°C |
| Geling | Spring | March – May | From 14°C to 18°C | From 0°C to 4°C |
| Summer | June – August | From 16°C to 20°C | From 2°C to 6°C |
| Autumn | September – November | From 12°C to 16°C | From -2°C to 2°C |
| Winter | December – February | From 4°C to 10°C | From -10°C to -6°C |
