Upper Mustang – The Hidden Kingdom of Nepal

Upper Mustang – The Hidden Kingdom of Nepal

Upper Mustang, often referred to as “The Last Forbidden Kingdom,” remains one of Nepal’s most mysterious regions. Upper Mustang is located beyond the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, and is in the rain shadow of the Himalayas. This creates a striking, desert-like topography that is quite different from the verdant hills of central Nepal. At the border of Nepal and Tibet, this zone has sheltered old Tibetan Buddhist culture, medieval settlements, and feudal history from the outside world. It is only since 1992 that this remote zone has opened to visitors, allowing a unique opportunity to experience a way of life that has, for the most part, been untouched.

Geography and Cultural Background

Upper Mustang is situated in the north-central part of Nepal and the border of prod of the entire region of Mustang from Tibet and at the extremes, from the north border of Mustang to the southern border is about 7 days walk. This region lies at a height of 2800 to 4200 meters and as described, Mustang is an interesting region with a captivating landscape and composed of barren rock cliffs, eroded fences and deep canyons and vivid red and brown rock formations and the Kali Gandaki River that runs at the base of the tall barren cliffs and runs through Deep River 7ths. Culturally and traditionally aged is the place, and it is evident by the coffee vents.

The inhabitants are known as Lobas. Life is dominated by the high cell of the order of mysteries. They live on the high, sealed formed cliffs and the region has been ever smiling and dominated with of trekking and the haze of the world. It is evident by the coffee and the order moistures. They live on the high, sealed formed cliffs.

Upper Mustang is a once in a lifetime trip. Its unparalleled culture, stunning, austere beauty, and unique spirituality make it a very special part of Nepal. Unlike the verdant, bushy routes of the Everest and Annapurna districts, Mustang is a harsh, desolate wilderness of precipices, canyons, and high deserts, reminiscent of the Tibetan Plateau. Visit age-old monasteries, meet the monks, and enjoy the unity of nature and the spirit. Mustangs rare hospitality and profound loneliness make it a delicate and unusual trip. Upper Mustang is a stunning blend of culture, adventure, and tranquility.

The region of Upper Mustang is recognized for its historical, spiritual, and natural marvels. The ancient walled city of Lo Manthang is the heart of the region. The city is home to centuries-old structures, including a royal palace and monasteries such as Jampa, Thubchen, and Namgyal. The Chhoser caves, with their thousands of man-made cliff dwellings, offer a peek of life during the prehistoric era.

The Lo Manthang Tiji Festival, a vibrant three-day Buddhist celebration, features traditional masked dances that commemorate the triumph of good over evil. Among the many other attractions are Kagbeni, the charming gateway to Upper Mustang, and the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the deepest gorges on the planet. Coupled with sweeping views of the Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna ranges, all of these features combined make Upper Mustang a photographer’s paradise.

How to Reach Upper Mustang

Traveling to Upper Mustang is an adventure on its own. It begins in Pokhara, beautiful because of its lakes and for being the second biggest city in Nepal. Located in Mustang, the traveler can take a short flight to Jomsom which is the administrative center of Mustang then the route goes north through Kagbeni, Chele, Syangboche, and Ghami, then to Lo Manthang. For seekers of thrills, walking along the route is an option and there are also guided tours either by jeep or motorbikes for the rest.

It is also possible to drive the whole route from Pokhara through Beni and Tatopani. This option is not recommended due to the dusty and bumpy roads. No matter how you travel, the landscape along the way will take your breath away.

Travel Options

According to your interests and the time you have, there are multiple ways to travel in Upper Mustang.

Upper Mustang Trek: The classic way to travel the region. This 10-16 day trek is an immersion in the region’s culture with visits to ancient monasteries and walking through the region’s dramatic and beautiful landscapes. The trek is under a relaxed pace so as to optimize the cultural immersion.

Jeep Tour: This option is for those with little time or for those wanting a relaxed way to travel. A jeep tour also goes through the same scenic routes and cultural sites as the trek in 5-8 days. With the jeep tour, you will get the same cultural immersion.

Motorbike Tours: The Upper Mustang bike tour is one of the most exciting rides in Nepal and is certainly one of the most exciting for thrill-seekers. Experienced motorbike riders are able to appreciate the entire experience of the rugged off-road trails, steep inclines, and panoramic views while the journey becomes unforgettable.

Best Time to Visit

Visiting Upper Mustang is most enjoyable during the March-November period. The spring season (March-May) is characterized by gentle weather and blossoming greenery while autumn (September-November) has the promise of spectacular views of the mountains and crystal clear skies. Interestingly, the summer (June-August) months are considered another good option since Mustang is in the rain shadow and is relatively dry even during the monsoon season. The harsh winter months (December-February) are extremely cold and provide challenging travel conditions as high winds snow-in many of the lodges, which makes the lodges unavailable.

Permits and Regulations

Due to restrictions on visitors, foreign travelers to Upper Mustang must secure a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) on top of the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). In accordance with the most current guidelines, the RAP ranges to approximately USD 500 per person to cover the first 10 days and USD 50 for every day beyond that. Each traveler must accompany a registered guide and must book with a licensed trekking agency. These instructions aim to maintain the integrity of the local culture and environment while also providing a necessary level of protection to travelers in this remote area.

Accommodation and Food

Upper Mustang is home to a number of teahouses and guesthouses, where travelers can enjoy the simple, warm, and hospitable environment and the coziness of local accommodations. While the amenities may be unadorned, the offerings of the locals in this region can be richly compensatory. Typical meals served in the region include variations of Nepali and Tibetan delicacies.

These meals consist of Dal Bhat (rice and lentil soup), Thukpa (noodle soup), Momos (dumplings), Tsampa (roasted barley flour), and the traditional Butter Tea. A few lodges in Lo Manthang and Jomsom offer Western-style meals, in addition to the region’s traditional offerings. In this region, meals offer a great degree of simplicity, whilst providing the nourishment necessary to sustain the hard, manual tasks of daily life in the mountainous regions of Nepal.

Travel Tips

A well-prepared trip is an enjoyable trip. Due to the high altitude, you will need to take the time to adjust, so remember to pace yourselves, drink plenty of water, and prioritize hydration. As Jomsom has no cash withdrawal facilities, take plenty of cash with you. In monasteries, dress conservatively, and always ask people for permission if you intend to take their photograph, especially in religious settings.

Take warm clothes, some sunscreen, and a fully stocked first-aid kit. Travel insurance for high-altitude trekking is a must. The local customs are likely to be the first of many interesting things you will experience, and will significantly enhance your stay, while positively impacting the local people.

Sustainable and Responsible Travel

The Upper Mustang region is culturally significant and fragile both ecologically and culturally. Responsible practices will ensure that the region can continue to support sustainable travel for years to come. Avoid bringing and using single-use plastics, and always dispose of your waste in the proper manner. To support the local economy, stay in family-run lodges, and buy directly from the (handmade) craftspeople.

Please be mindful of religious customs and refrain from disrupting any prayer customs that are in place. Responsible travel will facilitate the passage of the region’s culture, landscapes, and customs to future generations.

Conclusion

More than a destination, Upper Mustang is a living museum of Tibetan culture. It is a place where time stands still. Trekking along ancient trails, riding the rugged landscape, or soaking in the spiritual rhythm of the place, Mustang Region balances the experience with adventure, calmness, and culture.

The whistling wind around the cliffs of Lo Manthang, the dancing prayer flags, and the brilliant days spent around the ancient monasteries help you realize why Mustang is one of the most stunning, enigmatic, and magical regions of all of Nepal, a kingdom frozen in time, and pulsating gently in the heart of the Himalayas.

FAQS

Where is Upper Mustang located?

Upper Mustang is in the Trans-Himalayan region of northern Nepal, Mustang District-Gandaki Province. Mustang is located to the north of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, with a border adjoining Tibet (China).

The reason why Upper Mustang is referred to as the Last Forbidden Kingdom?

Until 1992, Upper Mustang was an exclusive foreign location. For centuries, it was isolated, and thus, Upper Mustang preserved its ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, complete with its monarchy. The term “Last Forbidden Kingdom“ refers to the long period of isolation and thus, the complete adherence to the old traditions and ways of life.

How do I get to Upper Mustang?

The journey usually starts from Pokhara, followed by a short flight to Jomsom (the district headquarters). From Jomsom, you can either trek, drive by jeep, or ride a motorbike northward to Lo Manthang—the capital of Upper Mustang. Some travelers also drive the entire route from Pokhara via Beni and Kagbeni.

Do I need a permit for Upper Mustang?

Definitely. Upper Mustang is a restricted zone and requires all foreign travelers to pay for

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP), valid for 10 days, which costs $500.
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs about $30.

In addition to these, you are expected to go with a licensed guide, and your trip has to be booked with a registered trekking agency in Nepal.

What is the most appropriate time to visit Upper Mustang?

Spring (March – May) and autumn ( September – November ) are the ideal seasons since the weather is mild with clear skies. Nonetheless, it is also convenient in summer (June – August) as Upper Mustang is in a rain shadow region. The rest of Nepal is excessively rainy during this time.

How difficult is the Upper Mustang trek?

The trek is of a moderate level, which is best suited for a fit person. It involves a lot of long days of walking (5 – 7 hours) in a high altitude so the person must be able to adjust to the altitude. The trek does not have extreme climbs, which is a positive.

The length of the Upper Mustang trek depends on the route you choose, the number of acclimatization days, and how fast you walk, but it typically takes between 10 and 16 days. In about 5 to 8 days you can travel the same area on a jeep or a motorcycle.

Along the route, you can find a variety of accommodations consisting of teahouses and guesthouses, which include beds and basic comfort. For meals, expect a variety consisting of Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), Thukpa (noodle soup), and momos (dumplings), and other Nepali or Tibetan foods. Lodges in Lo Manthang also provide a bit more comfortable accommodations along with a greater variety of dishes.

Because of the restrictions on Upper Mustang, independent travel is also not allowed. Every traveler is required to have a guide, to go with a licensed trekking agency, along with the appropriately issued permits. In this way, you can maintain respect for the local people and their customs, while enjoying a safe and legal journey.

What Tiji Festival is celebrated and when?

For three days in May each year, the Tiji Festival is Upper Mustang’s most notable celebration. It is also celebrated in Lo Manthang. Tiji is a three days long Buddhist celebration is marked with a festive spirit as each day has a various colorful masked ball. The Tibetan and Buddhist communities delight the onlookers with joyful performances while narrating the victory of good over evil through a series of rituals and dances. A large number of tourists organize their travels at this period.

Is Upper Mustang a safe travel destination?

Yes, Upper Mustang is highly safe and secure to visit. The community around is warm and welcoming and Upper Mustang has very negligible crime rates. Theoretically, traveling in Upper Mustang presents a set of challenges, including high altitude, difficult mountainous landscape, and limited health care facilities. Because of this, and the risk of extreme altitude sickness, it is advisable to ALWAYS carry travel insurance and crosses the border with insurance that also includes emergency helicopter evacuation.

What do I need to bring as part of the pack for the Upper Mustang trip?

Essentials include the following

• Warm, windproof jackets, and several layers of clothing.
• Comfortable trekking shoes or boots.
• sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
• For the colder nights, a sleeping bag.
• First aid along with your personal medications.
• Some cash, as ATMs are limited after Jomsom.
• Bring a portable charger or a solar charger for your electronics.

Is it possible to ride a motorcycle to Upper Mustang?

Most definitely, it is considered to be among the most daring paths to follow in Nepal. Experienced enough people can make a journey between Pokhara and Lo Manthang by using off-road paths that are very rough and have breathtaking places and settlements that are underserved. One must have a riding license, off road motorcycles 350cc and above, and off road riding experience.

Is there any phone or internet service in Upper Mustang?

There is phone service in Jomsom, Kagbeni, and Lo Manthang, but it is usually unreliable and slow. Those with NTC or Ncell SIM cards will have limited access. Some cabins will have paid Wi-Fi access.

What makes Upper Mustang different and special compared to other trekking regions in Nepal?

Compared to the more well-known trekking regions like the Everest or the Annapurna regions, Upper Mustang is different in the sense that it is a dry and desert like terrain. Different also in that it has a rich cultural, historical, and Tibetan Buddhism background. The isolation of the Mustang region, along with its preserved customs, creates a strange and otherworldly setting, which makes the Mustang region different, and also more unique in terms of spirituality compared to other regions in the Himalayas.