16th Jul, 2024

Upper Mustang Trek from kathmandu and Pokhara

The Upper Mustang Trek is an ethereal journey into one of Nepal's most mystically preserved regions, beginning from the bustling cityscape of Kathmandu and winding through the serene city of Pokhara, before ascending to the high-altitude desert of the Mustang Valley. This is a trek that unravels like an epic, each step a verse, each view a stanza in the sonnet of the Himalayas.

Starting from Kathmandu, a city rich with ancient temples, stupas, and palaces, travelers find themselves immersed in a world that feels as if it exists beyond time. Winding through the streets lined with small shops selling colorful handicrafts and vibrant textiles, one senses the palpable blend of history and spirituality that defines this place. Before even setting foot on the trail, Kathmandu prepares the heart for the mysteries that lie ahead.

From here, a brief yet spectacular flight or scenic drive takes us to Pokhara, a lakeside city nestled in a lush valley and ringed by peaks that seem to rise from the heavens themselves. Pokhara, with its gentle Phewa Lake mirroring the snowy summits of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range, has a peaceful charm that resonates like the first note in a ballad. The city’s vibrant café culture, relaxed pace, and natural beauty offer a brief respite before the challenges of the trek, allowing for moments of reflection as travelers embark on this ancient route to Upper Mustang.

The trek itself begins in earnest from Jomsom, after a short flight from Pokhara over the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. As the small aircraft skims close to towering mountains, the excitement and reverence for what lies ahead only deepen. The Mustang region, once a forbidden kingdom, opens its gates to reveal a land of stark beauty, untouched by time. Here, barren, wind-swept hills carved by ancient rivers stretch as far as the eye can see, their ochre and crimson hues standing in contrast to the towering, snow-capped peaks beyond.

As the journey continues, the trail passes through secluded villages where life moves with a timeless rhythm. Each settlement, from Kagbeni to Lo Manthang, the walled city of Mustang, echoes with tales of mystics and kings, of monasteries that have stood for centuries in worship and wisdom. The altitude gradually rises, taking trekkers higher into a realm that feels closer to the sky, yet strangely grounded by the weight of its history and the endurance of its people. At altitudes ranging between 2,800 meters in Jomsom to over 3,800 meters near Lo Manthang, the air grows thinner, and the landscape transforms into a surreal expanse where the winds carry whispers of forgotten times.

Every dawn on this trail is a quiet miracle, as the sun crests over the distant Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, casting a warm golden glow over the cold desertscape. In the mornings, the wind is gentle, the paths lined with prayer flags that flutter in the breeze, each one carrying its own blessing. The vibrant monasteries, painted in hues that echo the sunrise, stand as sentinels of faith against the rugged backdrop, their interiors adorned with intricate murals and statues of deities, protectors, and saints.

The path to Lo Manthang is perhaps the most enchanting stretch. This medieval city, a true hidden gem of the Himalayas, is surrounded by ancient walls that have borne witness to countless generations. Inside, narrow alleys lead to gompas (monasteries) and palaces, where monks in traditional crimson robes perform rituals that are centuries old. The altitude here demands a slow pace, not just to adjust but to savor. The lack of modern-day conveniences only deepens the sense of immersion in a world untouched by time, where ancient Tibetan culture thrives amidst rugged isolation.

This region of Mustang, with its lunar landscape, dramatic cliffs, and caves carved into cliff faces, is not merely a place to trek but a place to transcend. The trek to Upper Mustang is as much a pilgrimage of the soul as it is a journey of the body. Every step, every breath, feels like an offering to the land, an acknowledgment of the sheer beauty and resilience of a region that has held fast to its identity despite the passage of time.

By the time the return journey brings travelers back through Jomsom, Pokhara, and finally to Kathmandu, one has not only traversed miles of rugged terrain but also crossed into a deeper understanding of oneself. The Upper Mustang Trek is more than a trek—it is an invitation to witness the poetry of nature, the wisdom of ancient cultures, and the quiet yet profound strength of a kingdom that still reigns, untouched, in the hearts of those who venture there.

In these high-altitude deserts, in the shadow of majestic peaks, every traveler becomes a part of the eternal tapestry of Mustang, where the winds sing the songs of history and the mountains stand as silent witnesses to the undying beauty of Nepal’s hidden kingdom.

1# What is the allure of the Upper Mustang Trek from Kathmandu and Pokhara?

The Upper Mustang Trek is a dream woven in the fabric of time, carrying travelers from Kathmandu’s bustling heart to the tranquil city of Pokhara, and then to the mystical highlands of Mustang. This journey transcends the ordinary, leading into an ancient kingdom of breathtaking landscapes, sacred monasteries, and timeless traditions that touch the soul. Each step in Upper Mustang whispers secrets of lost kingdoms and forgotten paths, creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience that leaves travelers spellbound.

2# How does one reach the ethereal landscape of Upper Mustang?

The journey begins with a scenic flight or drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a flight to Jomsom. There, in the lap of the Annapurnas, the trek begins, unfolding day by day like an epic tale. Each mile brings travelers deeper into Mustang, ascending toward Lo Manthang, the walled city of kings, where the spirit of ancient Tibet is alive and breathing.

3# What can I expect from the landscapes along the trail?

The landscapes of Upper Mustang are surreal—earthy cliffs and canyons painted in shades of ochre, russet, and gold. Desert winds carve the valley’s deep canyons, while the snow-dusted peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri frame the horizon. It’s a landscape that speaks to the heart and whispers to the soul, with every sunrise casting the high-altitude desert in hues of soft pink and gold.

4# Is Upper Mustang suitable for all fitness levels?

While this journey requires both heart and endurance, the trek is accessible to those who possess a spirit of adventure and a love for nature’s grandeur. The trek is moderate, requiring acclimatization to higher altitudes as travelers rise to Lo Manthang at nearly 3,800 meters. The trails welcome both seasoned explorers and new trekkers with open arms, each finding their own pace in this poetic land.

5# Will I encounter local communities and cultures?

Indeed, one of Upper Mustang’s most enchanting aspects is the deep-rooted culture of its people. Trekking through this sacred land means encountering villages that have preserved their traditions, monasteries where monks chant ancient prayers, and kind souls who share the warmth of their lives with visitors. Every encounter is a glimpse into a world where faith and heritage are woven into daily life.

6# What kind of accommodations can I expect along the way?

The accommodations on this trek are simple yet imbued with charm, echoing the warmth of the Mustang people. Cozy teahouses provide shelter after a day on the trail, each offering a taste of local hospitality and simple comforts. It’s a chance to step back from the fast-paced world, reconnect with simplicity, and fall asleep under a sky bursting with stars.

7# Are there any specific altitude considerations?

As trekkers ascend to altitudes between 2,800 meters and over 3,800 meters, the thin mountain air brings a sense of peaceful solitude and quiet reverence. Gradual acclimatization is part of the journey, allowing trekkers to savor each rise into Mustang’s mystical heights. The gentle approach ensures the body adjusts, allowing one’s soul to fully embrace this high-altitude paradise.

8# What treasures does Lo Manthang hold?

Lo Manthang, the ancient walled city, is a gem nestled in the embrace of Mustang. Here, centuries-old monasteries painted in hues of saffron and crimson house intricately carved statues and murals, while narrow alleyways lead to palaces and prayer wheels spinning with blessings. The city’s timeless beauty and the wisdom of its people make Lo Manthang a treasure trove of history, spirituality, and wonder.

9# When is the best time to immerse oneself in the magic of Upper Mustang?

The ideal months are March to May and September to November, when the mountain skies are clear, and the beauty of Mustang unfolds in vibrant hues. Spring blooms with wildflowers amid the desert sands, while autumn’s golden sunlight casts a warm glow on Mustang’s cliffs. Each season offers a different facet of Mustang’s allure, inviting travelers to choose the one that speaks to their heart.

10# How does the Upper Mustang Trek leave its mark on travelers?

The Upper Mustang Trek is a journey that stays with travelers long after they return. It leaves an indelible mark on the heart, an imprint of towering mountains, ancient cultures, and a profound sense of stillness that lives within. For many, Mustang becomes more than a destination; it’s a place where the soul finds peace, the spirit finds adventure, and the heart finds stories that linger forever.