Upper Mustang Trek

Benefit of a short Everest base camp short trek with Nepal Horizon Treks.

Nepal Horizon Treks is among Nepal's most reputable trekking and tour agencies. Adventure trips and Trekking are two of our services. Local skills and people with tourism experience in Nepal operate the company. Because the safety of our clients is our priority, we are willing to be flexible with our activities to improve Nepal's tourist quality through Helicopter to Everest Base Camp.

We are a trekking and tour organization that specializes in helicopter trips to unique destinations around Nepal and beyond featuring Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour. Nepal Horizon Treks is dedicated to offering the most incredible helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp experience possible while always keeping our clients' safety and pleasure in mind. Our staff has flown to practically every site in Nepal since the company's inception, allowing them to manoeuvre to varied destinations without difficulty.

The vacation packages offered by Nepal Horizon Treks are excellent value for money. Our tours are all reasonably priced. We are providing organizations to serve with the best possible hospitality in required budget plans. Here we discussed some of the common and basic facilities that we provided to you 

• Free pick and drop off from the airport to your hotel
• Own hotel service with clean and hygienic food and facilities 
• Easy booking and reservation online
• 24-hour available for your concern 
• Different social media Instagram, Viber, We chat, Whatsapp, Facebook, Twitter
• Easy payment system through VISA, Mastercard, wire transfer and PayPal.   
• Availability of Oximeter at the time of high altitude area
• Medical kits in case of an emergency 
• Provide sleeping bags and down jackets, if you don't have your own.
• Duffle back
• Nepal Horizon Trek T-shirts

Difficulty of upper mustang trek 

The difficulty level of the upper Mustang trek depends on the route of your itinerary. It is not an easy trek, but less difficult than the Everest base camp trek. However, it is not that hard to trek to the upper mustang if you are perfectly fit and healthy if you did some basic training before your trek. We know many people are curious about the difficulty level of the trek. So here we briefly discussed the difficulties and how to prevent them. 

Distance

The Upper Mustang journey typically lasts 16 to 17 days. During these 17 days, you will walk on average of 6 to 7 hours per day. This period often includes two to three days of rest or acclimatization. This is essential for trekkers who are new to the sport. A safe and enjoyable journey may be had because of the extended duration, which gives you time to get acquainted to the terrain. For experienced hikers and those looking for a challenge, the time can be cut down to 12–14 days. Anything less could be detrimental to your health. High altitude sickness risks are raised on the 12- to 14-day Upper Mustang journey. 

Weather 

Upper Mustang experiences the same four seasons as other areas throughout the year: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The difficulty of the walk is also based on these seasons. The best time of year to hike Upper Mustang is in the spring. This season, the daytime temperature is often between 12 and 16 degrees Celsius. But at night, the temperature may drop by as much as 6-2 degrees Celsius. The Himalayas may be seen in all their glory during this season. There is no problem going on a hike there in the summer or fall.

But if you want to travel in the winter, it will be more difficult. The temperature may drop 0 to 5 degrees during the day and -20 to -25 degrees at night as a result of the significant snowfall.

Altitude sickness 

Walking implies travelling over the Himalayas above 3000 meters. The symptoms of acute mountain sickness, which include a headache, nausea, giddiness or vomiting, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms, may be brought on by high-altitude trekking. The highest point of this voyage changes based on your decision. No matter what you decide, you shouldn't hike higher than Marang La, which is at 4230m. However, going at your own pace, taking the necessary acclimatization days, and drinking plenty of water can all help you complete your voyage successfully 

Remoteness 

The traditional cultural lifestyle and traditions are experienced on the voyage to the remote area. Trekkers shouldn't anticipate staying at well-known lodges and motels while on this expedition. The nearby teahouses provide basic comforts like hot meals, clean beds in clean, sanitary rooms that are shared, restrooms, and so forth. This region, which was only opened in 1992, is unaffected by contemporary lives and western culture. But a number of facilities are being created due to the attractions for both internal and external excursionists. Some locations have excellent WIFI capabilities, making phone calls seamless.

Terrain 

The Upper Mustang Trek has its ups and downs, just like other treks around the Himalayas do. There can be multiple ups and downs that alternate with each other or a long, continuous ascent or descent at other times. There is also hardly any flat terrain. This walk can therefore be difficult due to the terrain. You won't have to worry about the terrain, though, if you've already tried earlier excursions. The Annapurna circuit's track experiences similar fluctuations. But even so, getting ready in advance is strongly advised.

How to overcome upper mustang trek difficulty?

Choose the proper season before you trek 

Like the rest of Nepal, Upper Mustang experiences all four seasons. The weather and temperature vary with each season. The difficulty of any trek, especially one to Upper Mustang, is greatly influenced by this. Throughout the year, trips to Upper Mustang are feasible with the correct planning, gear, and attire. But for the majority of people, spring and fall are the best times to go on a trek in Nepal. These times of year feature consistent weather, incredible visibility, and comfortable temperatures. These circumstances guarantee the best trail conditions and the perfect temperature. During these seasons, you have a good chance of finding the lodging, food, and beverages you want. These factors combine to make these times of year the best for trekking in Upper Mustang and Nepal.

​​The summer months in Nepal are a prime time for Upper Mustang trekking. Upper Mustang doesn't get any rain during this season, unlike most of Nepal. Upper Mustang is located in the Annapurna region's rain shadow. The trek will be enjoyable with dry weather and long, bright days. Upper Mustang winter treks are doable but not for everyone. Upper Mustang as a whole enters a state of hibernation. During the winter, the majority of the locals go to the lower areas. As a result, the majority of teahouses, inns, cafes, and restaurants close for the year. The area has significant snowfalls and below-freezing temperatures.

However, individuals looking for a little bit of a challenge or those who want a more untamed and primitive trekking journey can consider going on a winter hike. During your winter Upper Mustang hike, you might also need to set up tent in several locations. In the winter, Kagbeni has very few tea places to choose from. Therefore, if you don't mind camping in the cold and only meeting a few other hikers, the winter Upper Mustang trek is for you. In addition to these, you may take in the stunning sunrises and sunsets. This time of year, you may take advantage of the crystal-clear skies, crisp air, and views of snow-covered mountains. The weather conditions may cause some of the high passes and lesser peaks to close for the year.

Maintain your body fitness

For this walk, you don't need to be in especially good physical shape. You can complete the Upper Mustang hike comfortably if you can walk for extended periods of time. Prior hiking experience in hilly and mountainous areas, whether abroad or in Nepal, can be useful. During the Upper Mustang hike, your body will adjust to the varying altitude and frequent walking more easily. It is not necessary to have extraordinary physical condition or previous trekking experience. But a few months before to the expedition, it is helpful to start a regimen of walks and jogs to prepare. By boosting your endurance, you can lessen fatigue and breathlessness while out on the trail. Your travel will be easier as a result. But before going on any trek, be sure to speak with your doctor. By doing this, you may let your local guide and trekking company know in advance about any medical conditions you may have.

Upper mustang trek length 

Every day, the trip begins at 8.30 a.m. after breakfast, and there are numerous opportunities to pause, take in the scenery, take pictures, or enjoy a cup of tea along the way. The beauty of this walk is that we don't go to any certain height, and the pace is moderate, allowing for excellent acclimatization. Most days of trekking last 6 to 7 hours and are typically over by midday.

The terrain is along clearly marked trails that have been traveled before. Sometimes the paths are rocky, other times they are sand and desert-like. Crampons, technical equipment, or special skills are not required because this is just a trek. Due to its isolation from the rest of Nepal and the outside world until the early 1990s, the Mustang is unspoiled and has a rich Tibetan culture; yet, you will receive a warm and cordial welcome. Since the valley is really a big dried-up ravine and is located in the shadow of the Himalayan monsoon, it is possible to visit most of the year. We advise avoiding midwinter and instead considering any time from March to late November.

Meals 

The Upper Mustang trip lasts for several days. Such trips put a lot of physical strain on your body, which can quickly sap your energy. Maintaining a nutritious diet before, during, and after a journey is crucial while on one. Make sure you have a hearty breakfast before you set out on the actual hike. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein should all be consumed. Additionally, you ought to hydrate your body by consuming water. Throughout the trip, sip water frequently in tiny amounts. Make sure you consume 125ml of water every 30 minutes.

Hiring a guide

The Upper Mustang trip is one of Nepal's restricted zone treks. Therefore, it is necessary to hire a registered, licensed local trekking professional. Your porter, local guide, or porter-guide could be this. Additionally, you have the option of bringing additional local trekking guides. Each of them has advantages of its own. They can contribute to your having a good and safe time when trekking in Upper Mustang. A guide can give you in-depth knowledge of the area's flora, animals, and culture. A guide can also suggest the coziest tea houses for you to stay at and eat at.

A guide may also tell you how far it is, how long it will take you to walk each day, which trails to take, and where to stop for rest. Their knowledge of the weather and trail conditions is current. You will know more about what to anticipate on each day of your walk if you do this. Higher elevations, such as Upper Mustang, frequently have unexpected weather. Therefore, having a guide with experience can be useful. A qualified and experienced guide is also familiar with how to handle any emergency that may or may not occur. A porter can handle 25 kilograms of luggage. You can then pack all of the necessary items for the expedition. So it will be easier for you if you hire a guide or porter during your trek. 

Choosing routes according to your ability 

There, you can begin your walk, or you can travel to Kagbeni by bus or jeep. Your actual expedition can begin and end in Kagbeni. You hike north from Kagbeni and arrive at Lo Manthang in 4 to 5 days. Between 3200 and 3900 meters, you will cross several small passes. You have a choice of returning from Lo-Manthang by the same route or a different one. The alternate route travels through Dhakmar and two passes. Around 4100m, these passes are a little higher. This comfortable and well-travelled path is somewhat challenging. You can select a different route with a strenuous level of difficulty if you're looking for a challenge.

Upper Mustang trek permit

Before starting your trek for the Upper Mustang Trek, you need three permits, which are Restricted Area Permit Guidelines, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and Tourist Information Management System (TIMS). All the permits are required to continue the trek. You will find many checkpoints and officers during your trek who are there to check your permit. If you forget to carry your permit with you, you can also get a new permit card with an extra charge. Let's read in detail the cost and importance of the permit. 

Restricted Area Permit Guidelines

Restricted area trekking permits are issued by the government of Nepal's immigration office in either Kathmandu or Pokhara via a recognized trekking company. Upper Mustang cannot be reached without a permit. The "Upper Mustang Area" refers to the region above Kagbeni hamlet; the RAP checkpoint is also located here; trekkers must present special permits and passports for registration prior to and following the trip.

The documents that are needed for the Restricted Area Permit Guidelines are:-

Original passport 

Photocopy of Passport

Photocopy of Nepal VISA 

Passport size photos 

Local agency agreement and itinerary

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

A portion of the Annapurna Conservation Area is Upper Mustang. You must also have an Annapurna conservation area permit in order to enter this area. You can easily obtain it at the ACAP counter in Pokhara and at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu. However, your tour guide will handle all the paperwork.

Where you can get the Annapurna Conservation Permit in Kathmandu?

You can get your permit from the Nepal Tourism Board, which is located at Bhrikuti Mandap, Exhibition Road, Kathmandu. The office is open from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. It is closed on Saturday.

The details that are needed for the Annapurna Conservation Permit are:-

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Home location
• Contact address in Nepal 
• Name of the Trek 
• Trek Entry Point
• Trek's endpoint 
• Passport number
• Tourist Information Management System (TIMS)

From January 1, 2008, Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) put into practice the instructions from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN).

Travel insurance

Traveling from one nation to another requires travel insurance. You'll also require travel insurance for trekking in Nepal. We are all aware that travel insurance is required for trekkers visiting Nepal. However, short hikes in Nepal that only cover lower altitudes, such as the Poon Hill Trek, Sundarijal Trek, and Chisapani Nagarkot Trek, do not require travel insurance. 

The insurance that covers unforeseen costs like trip cancellation, flight accidents, medical expenditures, lost luggage, and other losses suffered while traveling is known as travel insurance, also referred to as traveler's insurance. Personal property damage is also covered by some travel insurance policies. Without a doubt, you can travel anywhere without travel insurance. However, you must realize that even if you fall ill, misplace something, or miss your trip, you are still responsible for paying your bills. Vacation insurance purchased in advance enables worry-free, fear-free travel.

Don't forget to verify your policy and make sure that you are covered for adventurous activities like hiking above a particular height before purchasing travel insurance for trekking in Nepal. Many travel insurance policies exclude coverage for those exceeding 4,000 meters. This is something you need to be sure of because major treks like the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Manaslu Circuit Trek both pass over 5,000 meters (Larkya La Pass at 5,160 m and Kalapatthar at 5,545 m). The simplest way to find out if you are insured for trekking in Nepal up to the altitude you will be traveling to is to call your insurance provider.

Why is upper Msutang a restricted area?

Not only the Upper Mustang, but also the trekking region has an open border or a link to another nation, and according to Nepali government regulations, these areas must be entered only with a special permit. It is all a result of improved border security and a decline in criminal activity along international borders. The open border with Tibet and China may be the first convincing argument for why Upper Mustang is a limited territory. 

Untouched nature

One of the highest concentrations of human-carved cliff caves in the world may be found in Mustang. These expansive systems have never been thoroughly explored. It has been established that the rich antiquities were discovered beneath the tunnel cave. Which has been demonstrated by the few western climbers and archaeologists who visited those sites with a specific permit for this particular expedition. Numerous caverns and locations are inaccessible because they are perched so high up the unstable rock. Some of them have undergone monastic conversion. Ancient houses with paintings on the deteriorating walls that date back thousands of years were discovered in a sizable portion of the cave. These chambers were created by highly talented ancient architects who formerly resided in the caverns for security and as a secure place to dwell. The people think that the caverns were created by their ancestors as places of devotion and that they are holy. According to Tibetan Buddhism, Padama Shambhaba and Guru Rimpoche, two of its holy figures, who founded monasteries nearby, were responsible for discovering all of these.

Last buddhist kingdom 

The final kingdom of the Buddha in Nepal is Lo-Manthang (4,300 m). Lo-Manthang was the final kingdom to maintain its independence when Shaha King of Gorkha combined all the lesser nations into one nation known as Nepal. They agreed with the king of Nepal that as long as Nepal is a kingdom, their kingdom should have its own monarchy. After a catastrophic slaughter of the royal family in 2008, Nepal's monarchy was formally overthrown. Since that time, "Jigme Palbar Bista," the monarch of Lo-Mangtang, has been instructed to abdicate his throne. Jigme Palbar Bista, the late King of Mustang (1933–2016), agreed to the decree but swore to continue protecting Tibetan culture. 

Ammonite fossil 

Ammonites are roughly 145 to 210 million years old and are exclusively found in the bank of the Kaligandaki River in Nepal. They are also known as "Saligram" in the local language. The Saligram was a type of carbonate of lime that was almost the size of an orange, black in color.

The Ammonites are the subject of an intriguing tale. According to Hindu mythology, everything began as a result of a passion for Seti, a stunning woman. Lord Shiva, who at the time was a fierce foe of Seti's father, Jalandhar, was deeply in love with her. In addition to having a lovely kid, Jalandhar was also fortunate to have Brinda as his strong wife. Being a "pativrata"—a married woman who was devoted to her husband—Brinda derives her strength from her loyalty. Out of resentment and jealousy, Lord Shiva gave the other deity, Vishnu, the order to pretend to be Jalandhar and have a sexual encounter with Brinda.

The goal is for Brinda to cheat and ultimately lose her influence. Then, Lord Shiva altered Vishnu's appearance such that it resembled Jalandhar, and Vishnu obeyed his orders. When Brinda learned that she had in fact had a sexual relationship with Vishnu, she cursed him and made him into a rock. Because of this legend, the Saligram, which is still hunted on the bank of the Kali Gandaki river along the Upper Mustang trekking trail, is considered a manifestation of the god Vishnu.

Route to the holy sites 

Not only is Hinduism practised in Upper Mustang, but also Buddhism. According to the Hindu holy book, Upper Mustang is the gateway to the most extensive and valuable sites, including Damador Kunda, Muktinath, and Dudkunda.