A trek with a unique cultural and traditional experience this fairy tale trek of Mustang offers you an opportunity to meet the Royal Family of this Forbidden Kingdom.

Mode of Trekking (Camping Trek)
16 Days Trip
10 Days Trek, 5 nights in Hotel.
Moderate

Mustang is one of the smallest Buddhist kingdoms in the world. It is located northwest of Nepal, bordering on three sides with Tibet. Mustang trekking explores the kingdom hidden behind the Himalayan giants of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, the kingdom of “Lo,” as Nepal's Mustang region was once known, occupies the southern fringes of the Tibetan plateau, a high and desolate country where variegated rocks, shadows of passing clouds, and a few cultivated fields provide interesting color and contrast. Until recently, it has remained one of the most isolated and inaccessible areas of the world.  This isolation has helped maintain a way of life almost unchanged for centuries. The Kingdom of Mustang preserves some of the last vestiges of traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture. Mustang trek follows established trails through substantial villages that once served a thriving trade route between Nepal and Tibet. These whitewashed settlements, set amid fields of barley and home to impressive chortens and simple monasteries, reflect the abiding Buddhist culture. The route of the Upper Mustang trek takes you through barren ridges, deep canyons, bare cliffs and moraines, the ancient kingdom of Mustang and snow capped mountain. A highlight is the visit to Lo Manthang where the King of Mustang reigns over his tiny kingdom and surveys a world still culturally closer to the heartland of Tibet.

ITINERARY

Day 1. In Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu. Your group leader or the office representative will meet you at the airport and will transfer you to Yak and Yeti Hotel. Remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. Arrangements will be made for the distribution of your kit bag, sleeping bag and down jacket at 5 pm.
Welcome dinner is organized at 6:30 pm in one of the traditional Nepali restaurants and this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the fellow group members before the trip.

Day 2. In Kathmandu
In the morning we explore Kathmandu on an organized sightseeing tour visiting Boudhanath and Pusupathi Nath, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world and the most famous Hindu temple in the country.  The early afternoon is free to relax in the spacious hotel garden or you may wish to visit Thamel for any last-minute shopping. In the afternoon you will be supplied with trek departure information.

Day 3. Kathmandu – Pokhara
After breakfast in the hotel we take a bus/car to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu Airport for the 20 minute flight to Pokhara. As we land we become struck by the scale of huge peaks that surround the town. We then drive to our hotel in Pokhara. Pokhara has become the most popular destination in Nepal after Kathmandu. We spend our time enjoying a guided city tour exploring the main high lights of Pokhara city. Aside from sightseeing, we keep visiting the Seti River gorge - one of the best places to see. You will have an opportunity to take a glimpse to the limestone cave of Mahendra uGufa, used to be well-known for its stalactites. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 4. Jomsom – Kagbeni
We take an early morning mountain flight (weather permitting) from Pokhara up the Kali Gandaki Gorge between the peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna to land at the small airstrip at Jomsom, the administrative center of Mustang district in full view of Nilgiri. After we disembark, we collect our gear, and the Sirdar will organize the porters, Sherpa guides, and pack animals for the trek. We begin hiking along the bank of the Kali Gandaki River, passing through Eklebhatti  to the medieval-looking village of Kagbeni, formerly the northernmost area that foreigners could visit. The arid climate, mud-walled houses, and Tibetan dress and language are indications of how closely this area is linked with Tibet.

Day 5. Trek to Chailey
At the end of Kagbeni village we go through administrative matters at the police check post. After that we pass the sign saying “restricted area” and enter the forbidden kingdom of Mustang. High water often dictates a high trail on the east bank of the Kali Gandaki. The trail widens significantly revealing an endless stretch of sand but the path is kept interesting by the passing of mule trains bearing goods from Mustang and Tibet. On the west bank of the river are some caves and Gompa Kang. Unlike most monasteries in Upper Mustang which are of the Sakyapa sect , gompa Kang is of the Nyingmapa sect. We stop for lunch at Tangbe where you come across the first black, white and red chortens that typify Upper Mustang. The little town is a labyrinth of narrow alleys among white washed houses, fields of buck wheat and barley and apple orchards. Nilgiri Peak continues to dominate the southern skyline.  We continue to Chhuksang, which is at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Narshing Khola. Heading north we cross the Kali Gandaki and a short climb brings us to our campsite at the large Tibetan village of Chailey.

Day 6. Trek to Shyangmochen
In toDay’s walk there is a distinct change not only in the topography, but also in the culture, lifestyle and people, and the settlements become more scattered, smaller and more basic. The people of Mustang do practice agriculture, but because of the lack of rain and infertile soil, cultivation is in sheltered plots of land, scattering the brown landscape with patches of green.

From Chailey we climb up to Samar on a good trail that is not unlike the hike winding up and around from the bottom of the canyon to a pass. After the pass the trail descends gradually to Samar which is a trading post–type oasis (a major stopping place for horse caravans) in poplar trees amid the arid landscape of Mustang. We pass by the chorten of Samar for good luck. After passing the chortens our trail descends down to the stream bed and climbs back again with lots of switch backs. This particular spring water is very significant for the local travelers as the king of Mustang drinks this water. They say the water is very pure and has soothing taste. After the stream the walk is quite strenuous till we get to the pass. From the pass our trail descends gradually to Bhena village which has only two tea shops. After Bhena we cross a stream and climb to a pass then we descend along a ridge to Shyangmochen a tiny settlement with 3 tea shops. Nearby is an ancient cave that houses the Rangbyung chorten (meaning “the chorten that built itself or appeared by a miracle”) and is regarded as the holiest places in Mustang. Stay overnight at Shyangmochen.

Day 7. Trek to Ghami
The trail climbs gently for 25 minutes. We reach the Shyangmochen chorten and after that it is pretty flat and undulating till the trail descends down to the stream bed and climb up to Tama Gaon. The trail further leads to Chunkar village and then to Zaite village which are tiny little villages. After Zaite the trail climbs gradually to Nyi La Pass (the highest point on this trek). The descent from the pass is quite gentle and about half an hour further on we come to a trail junction. The right trail is the direct route to Charang, the left  leads to Ghami which is a large white-washed village sheltered by overhanging cliffs. Stay overnight in Ghami.

Day 8. Trek to Tsarang
The walk from Ghami starts with a downhill. We cross the Dhakmar Chu River on a suspension bridge, pass one of the most impressive and longest mani wall in Nepal, climb another high pass and enter the ancient town of Tsarang. The walk toDay is through perhaps the driest part of Mustang and much of your energy will be spent negotiating loose dry soil. However, the magnificent views of the countryside, from the gentle contours of the north to the rugged mountains in the east and west, are a source of inspiration. At the eastern end of the village are the five story dzong (fortress), formerly the home of the kings of Mustang, and the vast red Dorje Dhen Gompa (monastery) as we pass through the picturesque entry portal. The gompa houses an excellent collection of statues and thangkas. We will visit the Monastery and fortress later in the evening. Stay overnight in Tsarang.

Day 9. Trek to Lo Manthang
From Charang we descend to cross the Charang Chu River on a metal bridge and climb to a ridge. After the ridge we hike through a desert like landscape and the trail is a gradual uphill till we get to a very colorful stupa in the middle of nowhere. This is not just a stupa but a boarder mark which seperates two villages Tsarang and Lo Manthang. We climb further up towards another pass and from here we get our first view of the latter, the fabled walled “capital” of Mustang. We descent down to the river bed and then a short climb takes us to the village which is the highlight of this trek. Stay overnight.

Day 10. Exploration Day in Lo Manthang
ToDay we explore Lo Manthang, including visits to two important monasteries built in the early 15th century. Thugchen Gompa has very fine Buddhist murals on the walls of its massive assembly hall, which is supported by huge wooden columns. Champa Lhakhang contains a fifty-foot-tall image of Maitreya, the future Buddha, making it the largest clay statue in Nepal. Both monasteries are restored now by a team of Conservation Architects and Wall Painting Restorers with the help of the American Himalayan Foundation, who funded the project. We also visit the Choedhe monastic school and the imposing four-story Raja’s palace (if he is in residence). The current Raja can trace his ancestry back to the first king of the late 14th century, which suggests Lo Manthang dates back to that period. Later we will visit the museum which will throw some light on you about Mustang. Stay overnight.

Day 11. Trek to Geling
We retrace our trail back to Tsarang and then to Gami and climb the Nyi La (pass) that marks the southern boundary of Lo Manthang. We see Annapurna Range, Nilgiri on the south from the pass. From here the trail descends steadily down to another huge valley to Geling with its extensive fields of barley. As in all the settlements of Mustang, the white and ochre-painted houses are constructed using mud and stones with roofs made of twigs, stray and a mixture of mud and pebbles. We will visit the monastery in the afternoon. Stay overnight in Geling.

Day 12. Trek to Samar
We descent down through the large barley field and cross the river. Our trail gradually leads up to the ridge of Shyangmochen. This is the junction point, the high trail going towards Ghami and the lower  to Gheling. We descent to Shyangmochen and retrace our trail back to Samar. Stay overnight in Samar.

Day 13. Trek to Chhuksang
Retracing our steps we follow the trail to Chailey and descend further down to cross the Kali Gandaki River and finally we reach Chhuksang. Stay overnight in Chhuksang.

Day 14. Trek to Kagbeni
Retrace our trail back to Kagbeni via Tangbe village. Stay overnight in Kagbeni.

Day 15. Fly to Pokhara
Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara, depending on our luck with the Jomsom flight. Flights in and out of this tiny mountain airstrip are commonly delayed and we have no way of predicting the length of the delay. Its’s something we just have to live with. With luck we’ll get out the first Day. All camp meals at Jomsom are included while waiting. We cannot over emphasize the unreliability of these flights. We have no control over their operation or schedules, and while we devote an enormous amount of time, money, and energy into securing reservations, you should be ready for disappointments, delays and cancellations of Jomsom flights. We may have to try our luck for the next Day.

Day 16. Fly to Kathmandu
Early morning fly to Kathmandu. Our office representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to hotel Yak and Yeti. Remaining of the afternoon is at leisure to rest, perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping or enjoy the sightseeing. In the evening if you wish to go for a last night dinner with the group then you are welcome. Stay overnight in hotel Yak and Yeti.

Day 17. Trip concludes (Unless further plans are made)
After breakfast we transfer you to the airport for your flight home.

NEPAL EXTENSIONS

There are a variety of interesting extensions you might choose to add on either before or after your trek. These options include:

Chitwan National Park:
It provides excellent opportunities to view the rare species such as sloth bear, bison, rhinoceros, leopard and the exclusive tiger. Early morning jungle walks and safaris on elephant back are amongst the most popular activities. The jungle lodge can be reached from Kathmandu either by air or by private vehicle.

White Water Rafting:
On the Trisuli or Seti Rivers.

Mount Everest Scenic Flight:
An hour flight departs Kathmandu early morning and provides spectacular views of Mount Everest and the surrounding mountains.

Cultural Tour:
Nepal boasts a rich cultural diversity, and it is well worth exploring. The Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal is a dream-world for many and reality for some. Once experienced they can never be forgotten, never dismissed from memory whether ones experience of them is visiting age-old Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries and royal palaces with amazing sculptures, paintings, legends and living rituals. Nepal is not only regarded as "Shangri-la" for adventurers but a scenic revelation and an educational in itself to all visitors. Once seen they become a part of you, habit-forming and intrusive. We have put our best effort to incorporate all cultural delights as well as natural beauty that Nepal has to offer, which you can chose depending on your time availability.

Please contact the Alps in Nepal office if you plan to extend your trip and let us know in advance.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Life on the Trail
The trekking Day typically starts at 6:30 a.m. with the appearance of smiling Sherpas at the door of your room or tent bearing a mug of steaming tea or coffee. This is soon followed by a bowl of hot water for washing. During breakfast the porters set off. We start walking after breakfast between 7:30 and 8:30 am. Everyone is free to walk at their pace, which is comfortable for them, stopping along the way to explore villages and take photographs. Lunch will be around 11:00 am and usually takes between 1 and 2 hours. The camping place/lodge is usually reached at around 4 pm. After tea and biscuits are served, and at around 6:30 to 7:00pm the evening meal is ready.

Expert Leadership
Expert leadership is the key to an exciting, unforgettable experience. We have a very good selection of local leaders who are professionally trained and are among the most experienced in Nepal. Who better to look after you than your professional local leader, who speaks the language and knows the culture, intimately? The following people regularly lead this trek:

SANJAY GURUNG: Sanjay is an experienced trek leader who has been in this profession for last sixteen years. Besides trekking all over Nepal he has also led several trips to India and Tibet. His profound knowledge and easy going personality make him an ideal choice to lead treks for Alps in Nepal.

PETER CHETTRI: Peter holds a very good sense of humour and adventurous spirit which has made him an asset to the company. He was born in Nepal and brought up in Sikkim. As a graduate in Arts, he has a good command over both spoken and written English. He has been leading treks with Alps in Nepal for four years. He has done a first aid training specialised in Acute Mountain Sickness. His excellent leadership has always earned a good reputation to the company.

ASHIM SUBBA: Ashim is a travel enthusiast who has always been keen on adventure. He went to the University in Calcutta and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Commerce. Apart from being fluent in Nepali and English, he also speaks Japanese and has been involved in trekking for last two years. He has completed the first aid training including high altitude medicine. His expertness as a leader is one of the keys to our success.

Fitness Level
We recommend that you begin a fitness program as soon as you have decided you are going trekking. Hill walking, up and down the steps, cycling, running and swimming are the main exercises to help prepare you for a trek. It is advisable to see the doctor before you come for trekking. Although we carry a comprehensive medical kit on each and every trips, we recommend our clients to inform us their medical problems in advance if any and also carry their personal first aid kit covering the basics.

Why Alps in Nepal is your first choice for Adventure
Alps in Nepal, combines the best of international standards with the deep knowledge of local experts. It offers you services and an experience that surpass those offered by the large international companies; with the reliability that local outfits lack. With over 15 years of experience we have successfully organized tours and treks for several thousand patrons who can testify the unique class of service we offer. Please feel free to ask us about the selection of your trip or for any further information.