Trek in Upper Mustang is a rare trekking region in Nepal.
Here you will experience a way of life of true mountain people, who for
hundreds of years, had very little contact with the rest of Nepal and
retained their rich cultural heritage. Until recent times their king
was officially recognized by the Government of Nepal. In many ways, a trek
into Upper Mustang is similar to trekking in Tibet, as geographically
it is a part of the Tibetan plateau. The district of Mustang was, until 1950, a
separate kingdom within the boundaries of Nepal. The last king, of
Mustang, still has his home in the ancient capital known as Lo Manthang.
Upper Mustang has opened to non-Nepali trekkers only some
fifteen years ago and even today, access is still highly restricted. To enter
Upper Mustang, that is to travel further north of Kagbeni, trekkers
need special trekking permits and must be accompanied by a government-appointed official.
Upper Mustang, being in the Himalayan rain shadow, is one
of the regions in the country suitable for trekking even during the
monsoons. During this time, the upper Kali Gandaki valley is still quite dry
with only occasional rainfall. The Upper Mustang trek is not particularly difficult, the
highest point reached being only 3,800 meters, but the conditions at times can
be arduous. Mustang is cold in winter and is always windy and dusty throughout the
year. Winter treks are best avoided due to harsh weather.
There are few accommodation facilities available above
Kagbeni, so groups must be fully self-sufficient, especially in fuel. While
porters are available in Jomsom it is preferable to use mules to
carry the loads up to Mustang. These pack animals are available locally and are
more economical, and certainly more environmentally friendly than porters.
Lo Manthang, the old capital, is
reached in four days and at least one extra day should be spent here to soak
in the sights and sounds of this unique walled settlement. Ponies are
available for hire if you so desire. The return trip can either follow the
same route as the one you took to enter or take an alternative
route along the eastern bank of the Kali Gandaki. Trekking in Nepal-A Complete Travel Guide provides hiking tips for travelers visit us for more travel tips.
Comments