LO MANTHANG MUSTANG

Lying beyond the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massif in central Nepal is the hidden Kingdom of Mustan, an intriguing parched region, forming part of the Tibetan plateau. Untouched by the outside world, 16th century monasteries remain active, adorned with unrivalled frescoes, thankas and status of gigantic deities, preserving ancient traditions. Mustang is the land of Barley field's pastures for grazing herds. These upper reaches of the Kali Gandaki river which has tantalized a generation of trekkers - have recently been opened in 1992. Mustang being a restricted area, there are certain formalities required by the government of Nepal in obtaining a special permit.The journey to Mustang begins with a flight to Jomsom via Pokhara. Two days walking from Jomsom we cross the traditional boundary into the wild lunar landscape of Mustang. Our itinerary allows plenty of time to explore the main town of Lo Manthang, the impressive walled capital. Mustang trek is scheduled during the summer months when the people are most active in the fields, villages and monasteries. The trek ends at Jomsom and from here we fly back to Kathmandu via Pokhara.

Mustang, "The Forbidden Kingdom" is situated north of the Himalayas and juts out onto the Tibetan Plateau. The region of Mustang has more in common culturally and geographically with Tibet than it does with the rest of Nepal.

A journey into Mustang is like travelling back in time for a glimpse of what Tibet might have been before the Chinese occupation. Mustang retains much of its cultural autonomy and is administered by its own King or Raja, the 25th successor of his lineage. It is no wonder why it was opened for western visitors only after 1992.This magical journey in time begins with a short flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which on a clear day reveals splendid views from Langtang (7234m) to Dhaulagiri (8163m), an unforgettable experience. The actual trek begins from the rive side town of Birethanti, a short drive from Pokhara. From Birethanti here 2 days of gentle ascent will take you over terraced hills and through rhododendron forests, no mountain views unfortunately. There are, however glimpses of snow-capped splendour of Annapurna South (7219m). Soon the forests thin out and more vistas of the world’s highest peaks of Dhaulagiri I (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m), Nilgiri (7061m), Fish Tail (6993m) and numerous other peaks reveal themselves. A relaxing day is spent on the way in Tatopani where refreshing natural hot springs welcome you. The world’s deepest gorge can be seen on your way up to Kagbeni carved out by the mighty Kaligandaki River.

From here on you follow an ancient trade route through numerous villages along the windy river. This harsh and arid landscape offers its own imposing, rugged beauty. The hills are reminiscent of intricately coloured hues of blue, grey, white and yellow of Mandalas. Natural pigments from these hills are used to paint the Chortens and Gompas of this region forming a distinctive style. The village of Tangbe boasts an impressive Chorten striped by eight connected spirals. Across the river from Chusang eroded cliffs can be seen which resemble the pipes of a cathedral organ. You then climb to the valley of Nye La (12956), the highest pass on this trek. The descent from this point on takes you past one of the longest and most impressive Mani walls in Nepal while the walled city of Lo- Manthang can be seen shimmering over the horizon. The capital of the kingdom of Mustang, this city contains the richest surviving collection of 15th century Buddhist Mandalas in the world. Due to the destruction of temples in Tibet, the values of these Mandalas are immeasurable. The city and the surrounding valley can be explored on horseback the following day before you turn back to the flowing Kaligandaki.

OUTLINE ITINERARY

Day 1By Bus 7 hours drive to Pokhara
Day 2 Drive to Nayapul and commence trek Birethanti
Day 3 Trek to Ghorepani
Day 4 Trek to Tatopani
Day 5 Trek to Lete
Day 6 Trek to Marpha
Day 7 Trek to Kagbeni
Day 8 Trek to Chusang
Day 9 Trek to Geling
Day 10-11 Trek to Lo Manthang
Day 12-13 Lo Manang, the ancient capital.
Day 13-17 Trek to Tsarang
Day 14 Trek to Tsarang
Day 15 Trek to Geling
Day 16 Trek to Tsele
Day 17 Trek to Kagbeni,
Day 18 Trek to Jomsomx
Day 19 Morning flight to Pokhara trek concludes.

Book This Tour/Trek

Annpurna Trekking	Everest Base Camp Trek
Annpurna Base Camp Trek	Helambu Trek
Dolpo Trek	Mustang Trek
Jomsom Trek	Rara Trek
Poon Hill Trek	Upper Dolpo Trek
Royal Trek - Pokhara	Manaslu Trek
Everest Gokyo Trek

SOME FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS BY OUR CUSTOMERS

Can I do trek?
Mustang Jomsom Muktinath Trek is suitable for any walker looking for something a little more challenging and energetic. It does not require that you have any previous trekking or mountaineering experience. Although the terrain is not difficult, some vigorous hiking experience is useful. And It does not require any technical experience; only that you be in good physical conditioning and be able to hike for 4-6 hours over hilly terrain with a light day pack.

Do I need 19 days holiday for Mustang Jomsom Muktinath Trek?
It would be good, if can allow 22 days holiday for Mustang Jomsom Muktinath trek. We do require 19 days for trekking and we need two more days an extra for arrival in Nepal and departure from Nepal so altogether it requires minimum 21 days time for Nepal.

However, if you would not allow 19 days time, we can design an itinerary according to your desire and duration of your holiday. Please, let us know.

When is the best season?
The best season for this trek is half of February to June and September to early December.

Half of February to First week of June: From the half of February until the first part of June temperatures are relatively warm, 10° to 15° warmer than in the fall. Mornings are bright and clear with the air slowly becoming hazier as the day progresses. The rhododendron forests in springtime are spectacular, with color displays that are "Himalayan" in beauty. June is warm and green with many fewer people - the sense of solitude is much greater than other seasons.

September to half of December: September to early December is an ideal time for the best mountain views. The days are typically sunny and clear with moderate temperatures and the evenings are usually quite cold.

Should I join with group?
It is not necessary; you have to join with group and follow our fixed departure date. Private trip is departure everyday upon your request.

As these routes in the hills provide special meeting place for the trekkers from throughout the world, traveling in group is not necessary. Rather you can move at your own pace and set your own schedule by not being in group. You can freely alter the routes with in the limits imposed by your trekking permit and your guide will reschedule your itinerary accordingly.

But if you are interested to join with group, please choose below mention departure dates as per your requirement. We will try to arrange group for you.