Overview
Mustang Nepal trek-the uncharted magical red mountains of the least trodden remote region in Nepal:
Unlike other mountains with white snow and freezing temperatures, Mustang region trekking mountains are red in color at approximately 4,000 meters in height. Upper Mustang trek is another world on its own with a very distinctive landscape and culture different from other regions of Nepal. It is a remarkable and arid world where grey-brown treeless rolling hill extends into the distance and where homes are built from sun-baked mud brick, which remained intact for decades.
This magical place remains undefiled by tourism and modernization. With a blend of both white and red mountains, it is a sight to marvel at. Mustang region trekking ushers you to the remote world of the ancient Buddhist Kingdom Mustang settled between Tibet and the Himalayas. Also referred to as ‘Loho’, this kingdom is closer to Tibet and directly identified with Tibetan tradition, culture, and religion. Upper Mustang trek is situated in the Upper Kali Gandaki Valley and seats in the rain-shadow region behind Annapurna massif, with rainfall amounting to 400 millimeters per year.
What makes Mustang Trek Extraordinary:
The restriction enacted on the Mustang Nepal trek that lasted till the 90s greatly contributed to an extraordinarily safeguarded culture and nature. The chief pinnacle of Upper Mustang trekking is the capital of Upper Mustang known as Lo Manthang. On the way to Lo Manthang, trekkers can view the breathtaking wall of medieval capital from afar. It includes a white-washed, 6m tall wall that was constructed to guard outsiders against invading.
When you step into Lo Manthang, you feel as if you are walking into another galaxy- A galaxy with restricted space, age-old chortens, long-renowned history, prayer wheels, and ancestral people who utilize their time farming and trading business. We then visit the 15th-century Thugchen Gompa and the royal palace and also explore Amchi School and Amchi museum.
If you have heard of this place before, you must be aware of the very costly permit, which is a requirement from the Department of Immigration along with Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS). Therefore, many presume it to be a proviso for the wealthy adventurers only. For the several tourists who have had the auspicious chance to visit this place, the $500 permit was worth every penny. If you are planning to explore the Mustang trek, you need to be well prepared moneywise.
Upper Mustang Trek Cost:
- Special Upper Mustang trekking permit: The Mustang restricted permit currently costs $500 per individual. This requirement alone makes it not easily accessible to everyone. It is also important to note that this permit is valid for a minimum of 10 days only.
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit): In addition to the special permit, you need to obtain the ACAP that costs $20 per individual. If you wish to reach Upper Mustang, you need this permit that is valid for a one-time entry and exit, with an unlimited number of days in the Annapurna region.
- TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) card: This is not a must-have, but if you wish to visit other Annapurna treks, then you are required to have the TIMS card that costs $10 per individual.
Aside from the Upper Mustang trek cost, there are other costs you will encounter and need to prepare for such as:
- Cost for porter and guide- roughly between $25 to $30 each per day, inclusive of food, accommodation, and insurance.
- Cost of transportation for the Mustang trekking
- Food and beverages cost
- Cost of accommodation and tea houses
- Other miscellaneous costs such as charging your electronic gadgets, bucket shower, and tips.
Endnote
It is quite an expensive trek in comparison to other base camps in Nepal and mainly due to the permits. However, those who have gone before always say you get your money’s worth and there is a reason behind the costly implementations by the government.
View Photos
Video Preview
+977-9851129532
info@nativeeverest.com.np
Day's 38,
