Mustang Circuit Trek
Mustang is a mysterious world of the unknown with significant archaeological mysteries, a rich history, and its own distinct culture. Upper Mustang is also known as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom" due to the fact that outsiders were not permitted to visit until 1992, when the Nepalese government abolished the restrictions. Upper Mustang trekking involves the investigation of monasteries dating back a thousand years, caves, canyons, desert splendor, cliff-faced landscapes, native tribes, and their wonderful culture.
Upper Mustang Circuit Trek begins upon arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport. Following a short stay in the valley, the journey continues with a picturesque flight to Pokhara and then Jomsom. The flight to Jomsom crosses the world's deepest river gorge, the Kali Gandaki River. Upon landing in the windy town of Jomsom, the Mustang Circuit Trek begins with a dry terrain hike to Kagbeni. Following Kagbeni, the trail continues beside the Kali Gandaki River, and you will be needed to traverse numerous passes as you explore Upper Mustang's restricted zones. Lo-Manthang, the walled capital of the erstwhile Kingdom of Lo, will be an alluring destination. Mustang Circuit Trek takes you to historic monasteries and caves that bear sacred significance for the people of the last prohibited Tibetan Buddhist country. You will traverse multiple tight alleys, herds of farmed animals, and vast walls of prayer wheels along the way. Mustang Circuit Trek includes Nepal's most distinctive environment and provides insights into Buddhist practice.
Mustang Circuit Trek Highlights
The Mustang Circuit Trek, also known as the Upper Mustang Trek, is a unique and captivating trekking route in the Mustang region of Nepal. It offers a combination of stunning landscapes, ancient culture, and a sense of exploration. Here are some reasons why trekkers choose the Mustang Circuit Trek.
Distinct Culture: The Mustang region, often referred to as the "Forbidden Kingdom," has a unique and preserved Tibetan-Buddhist culture that dates back centuries. The trek offers a rare opportunity to experience this rich cultural heritage, including monasteries, ancient caves, and intricate architecture.
Ancient Caves: The Mustang area is known for its numerous ancient caves, many of which are used as meditation sites by Buddhist monks. The famous caves of Chhoser and Lo Gekar add an intriguing element to the trek.
Scenic Landscapes: The landscapes in Mustang are diverse, ranging from arid desert-like terrain to lush valleys. The backdrop of snow-capped mountains and the barren landscapes create a surreal and captivating environment.
Lo Manthang: The walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the former Kingdom of Lo, is a major highlight of the trek. Its narrow alleys, ancient monasteries, and royal palace provide a glimpse into the region's history.
Restricted Area: The Mustang region is a restricted trekking area, requiring a special permit to enter. This helps in preserving the unique culture, environment, and heritage of the area.
Less Crowded: The restricted nature of the trekking area and the associated permits result in fewer trekkers on the trail, allowing for a quieter and more intimate trekking experience.
Trans-Himalayan Experience: The Mustang Circuit Trek takes you into the Trans-Himalayan region, providing a sense of being on a journey into the heart of the Himalayas.
Photography Opportunities: The stark contrast between the barren landscapes and the vivid colors of prayer flags, monasteries, and local attire creates excellent opportunities for photography.
Cultural Festivals: Depending on the timing of your trek, you might have the chance to witness local festivals and religious ceremonies, adding a vibrant cultural experience to your journey.
Moderate Difficulty: The Mustang Circuit Trek is considered moderately challenging, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness and prior trekking experience.
The Best time for Mustang Circuit Trek
The best time for the Mustang Circuit Trek, also known as the Upper Mustang Trek, is during the pre-monsoon spring season (March to May) and the post-monsoon autumn season (September to November). These months offer the most favorable weather and trekking conditions for a successful and enjoyable trek. Both spring and autumn offer excellent trekking conditions, and your choice between the two depends on your preferences. Spring is known for its vibrant flora, lush landscapes, and blooming flowers, while autumn provides clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and cultural experiences. It's important to note that the Mustang region is at a relatively high altitude, so even during the recommended trekking seasons, you should be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially at higher elevations.
Duration : 16 days | Activity : Trekking/Hiking | Trip Date : Flexible |
Private Trip : Available | Group Trip : Available | Stay : Tea House/ Hotel |
Program Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Kathmandu at 1338m.
Day 2 - Permits process and afternoon flight to Pokhara.
Day 3 - Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom, 2720m, in 25 minutes, then hike to Kagbene, 2810m.
Day 4 - Hike from Kagbeni to Chele (3,050 m / 5-6 h).
Day 5 - Hiking from Chele to Syangboche 3800m/ 6 hours via Rachung Cave.
Day 6 - Hike from Shyangbochen to Dhakmar, elevation 3820 meters / 5-6 hours.
Day 7 - Trekking: Dhakmar to Lo-Manthang 3810 meters / 6-7 hours via the Ghar Gompa.
Day 8 - Day trip to the village and caves of Chhosar takes 6-7 hours roundtrip.
Day 9 - Hike from Lo-Manthang to Yara (3650m/6-7 hours).
Day 10 - Hike to Luri Cave Monastery for four to five hours round-trip.
Day 11 - Hike from Yara to Tangge 3240 meters/6-7 hours.
Day 12 - Hike from Tangge to Chhusang at 2980m for 8-9 hours.
Day 13 - Hiking from Chhusang to Jomsom 2720m .
Day 14 - Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara 820 km in 25 minutes.
Day 15 - Reserved for flight delays or cancellations, with a return trip to Kathmandu in the afternoon.
Day 16 - Final departure from Kathmandu.
Include/Exclude
Price Includes
- All necessary ground transfers.
- All necessary accommodations as per the itinerary.
- Tea House accommodations during the trek.
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trekking.
- All necessary paper works.
- All necessary trekking permits.
- Experienced and First Aid-trained trekking guide.
- Strong, helpful porters.
- Comprehensive medical supplies.
- Trekking map.
- Insurance of all local team.
- Warm clothing and trekking gear for staff.
- Sleeping bag and trip duffle bag.
- Trekking certificate issued by us.
- Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
Price Excludes
- Nepal Visa fee.
- International flights.
- All meals not mentioned in inclusions.
- Personal expenses not stipulated.
- Optional add-ons.
- Gratuities.
Guest Reviews
Lisa G
My dad and myself did plan to trek the Annapurna Circuit from Jagat to Jomsom and booked the trip via Raj and Getaway Nepal Adventure. While organizing everything in advance went smooth from the very beginning, we were amazed by the organisation of the whole trip once we arrived in Nepal - starting with a pick-up service in Kathmandu airport, also wisely chosing our guide and our porter (Manisha and Dai) which both were a perfect match to accompany us on our trekking. Both were very thoughtful and we felt like a companionship from the very beginning, but also very professional when it came to all concerns regarding the hike, like proper acclimatisation, the daily hike and everything besides. Overall organisation has been extraordinary and there hasn't been anything where Raj was not able to support (even after the trip has finished).
This really has been a once-in-a-lifetime trip and we were so happy to have this with Manisha and Dai. If ever planning to do a trekking in Nepal again (and we would love to do soon) we definitely would book with Raj again and his company one more time.
Aussie Couple
Raj and his team are awesome. Especially after seeing how other travel companies in Nepal have functioned, not only are they on top of everything, but the guides and porters working with the company are treated really well. The morning we were meant to leave for Lukla, the plane kept getting delayed. By 9 am our guides had a chopper organised to take us, where we later chatted to people who only got on one at around 2 pm and ended up hiking in the dark. We also saw multiple porters carrying more than one duffle bag, however, this company limits it to one, for the wellbeing of the porters. I cannot recommend this company enough.