Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang Trek is all about exploring the hidden world of the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Mustang. It can’t get much more remote.

The Upper Mustang Trek is all about exploring the hidden world of the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Mustang. It can’t get much more remote. Due to its inaccessibility, Mustang has long been protected from mass tourism and is now known as the last bastion of traditional Tibetan culture.

Trekking the Upper Mustang is one of the most fascinating places in the Himalayas, due to a long, rich and complex history.

Upper Mustang was opened to non-Nepali trekkers only some fifteen years ago and even today the area is very restricted. To enter Upper Mustang, trekkers need a different trekking permit and should be accompanied by a certified guide. The Upper Mustang is unique in every form.

Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

The Upper Mustang hike, also known as Lo-Mantang, takes you into the secret realm of Mustang’s historic Buddhist monarchy.
Explore the Himalayan rain shadow region and a dry zone akin to the Tibetan Plateau.
Experience the one-of-a-kindness of rocky pathways, Mysteries Sky Caves, and a treeless environment.
Beautiful Monasteries; Luri Gompa, Ghar Gompa, and many others were erected in the 15th century.
The Tiji Festival is a worldwide prayer for peace.

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How fit do I need to be to do this trek?

Annapurna Base Camp is a Grade B or a moderately difficult trekking route. So any fit person can do this trek, even if you do not have any previous experience. You should be aware of what to expect and mentally prepare for it. Then, as long as you will to, you can.

How long do we walk every day when doing Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours per day. One or two days can be as less as 3hrs and one or two days can be as long as 7hrs.

What is the highest altitude reached in this trek?

The highest altitude reached is 4190m. This is the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp. ABC is the highest we will climb in this trek.

What about battery charging and hot shower facilities?

Yes, you can charge batteries en route. Charger should be brought. There are hot shower facilities as well. You may have to pay certain amount for both ($1-$2). Negotiate. Also, hot water facility could be free at lower elevation.

Are there ATMs on the way to Annapurna Base Camp?

No. There are no ATMs on this trek route. You will have to draw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu. There are a number of ATMs in these cities. Everything is paid in Nepali rupees. So money should be exchanged before the start of the trek.

What about internet access?

Yes. Internet can be accessed in most places. Sometimes, there might be some technical problems. Internet in Nepal is not as fast as you are used to and at times you can just lose connection.

Is it necessary to hire Guides/trekking agency for Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

Not really. It depends on you. If you want, ABC trekking can be done independently. You could hire a guide and a porter by yourself instead of going through an agency or not hire a guide at all. Although, not having a guide can be a little problematic during off season.

It really depends on you. Is it your first time in Nepal? How confident are you of being able to find your way around? How pressed on time are you? If you go through an agency, it will be costlier but everything will be planned. You will only have to come, trek and return.

How much do guides and porters cost?

For Annapurna region, pay for guides range from $20 to $30 per day and porters take $15 to $25 per day.