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Mustang

Upper Mustang Trek, situated at an altitude of 3,800 m, in Mustang District of Gandaki Province, is one of the rare privilege treks, with a unique history. Until 1950, Mustang was a separate kingdom within Nepal. Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of Mustang, is where the last King of Mustang resides. Trekking to this region lets one explore the authentic lifestyle of mountain people. 

 

Geographically the part of Tibetan Plateau, the Upper Mustang region, is similar to Tibet, and its boundaries were open for international just fifteen years ago, making it an exciting new destination for foreign tourists.  To make trekking in the north of Kagbeni, and enter Upper Mustang, trekkers require special trekking permit and should be accompanied by a Government-appointed official.

 

Lying in the Himalayan rain shadow, Upper Mustang is a perfect destination even during monsoon. The beautiful kali Gandaki Valley does not bother any rain and remains calm and dry throughout the year. It is always a windy and dusty region, Mustang is cold during winter, so it is better to avoid trekking in the winter. 

 

Only a few accommodation facilities above the Kagbeni region are available, so one should be self-sufficient with fuel and essential stuff. You can use mules from Jomsom, which are economical and environmentally friendly than porters, to carry your loads up to Mustang.

 

After four days of the trip, you shall reach the ancient Lo Manthang, where one must stay one day to soak in the sights and sounds of outstanding walled settlement. You can return the following day and complete the trip.

 

To reach Mustang, visitors can find a local bus from Pokhara and reach Jomsom in 7 to 8 hours, which is the starting point to the Kingdom of Lo Manthang in Upper Mustang. The route is popular among bikers, and you can even take a taxi from Pokhara. If you want to take airways, the flight from Pokhara to Jomsom is also available.

 

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