The Last Lost Kingdom
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Welcome to Mustang – often called Nepal’s “Last Forbidden Kingdom.” This remote region, tucked behind the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, was virtually isolated from the outside world until the 1990s. Today, Mustang has emerged as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Mustang region is divided into two parts: Lower Mustang, with its typical Jomsom and Upper Mustang a rugged red-and-blue canyon landscapes, medieval walled towns like Lo Manthang, and centuries-old monasteries.
Discover everything you need to plan an unforgettable journey – from how to get to Upper Mustang and trekking routes to local festivals (like the famed Tiji Festival) and insider travel tips. Whether you’re an international trekker, a Nepali traveler, or a trekking agency scouting information, our goal is to make Mustang Nepal easy to explore and appreciate.
INFORMATION ON FLIGHTS, ROADS, TREKKING TIMELINES AND MAPS
Reaching Mustang’s spectacular high desert is an adventure in itself. Despite its remote location in northwestern Nepal, there are several ways to travel to Mustang, each offering unique sights along the way. So how does one journey to the captivating Mustang region Nepal?
Travelers often opt for traveling by road to reach this untouched beauty of Mustang. The roadway can be divided into 3 days:
Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara ( Approx : 200km , 6-7 hrs)
Day 2 : Pokhara to Jomsom ( Approx : 160km, 8-9 hrs)
Day 3: Jomsom to Kagbeni to Lo Manthang ( Approx : 72km, 6 – 8 hrs)
If you wish to find out more on the topic, it is covered in detail in this article about kathmandu to Mustang and other forms of travel to Mustang are also covered.
https://mustangnepal.com/kathmandu-to-mustang-4-best-ways-to-travel-via-road-flights-trek/
The most popular choice among tourists is air travel to Mustang. Frequent flights operate between Kathmandu and Pokhara, making it easy to reach Mustang in a short time. From Pokhara, you can catch a connecting flight to Jomsom Mustang which is the gateway to Upper Mustang. From Jomsom , you have the option to take a ride or start Upper Mustang trek.
Once you reach Jomsom Mustang, the adventure truly begins. The classic route begins after you reach Jomsom Nepal (by flight or road). From Jomsom, it’s a multi-day trek through Upper Mustang to Lo Manthang, allowing you to fully immerse in the landscape and local villages. A typical Upper Mustang trekking itinerary might be:
Day 1 : Jomsom to Kagbeni ( Approx 12km, 4-5 hrs)
Day 2 : Kagbeni to Chele ( Approx 15km, 6-7 hrs)
Day 3: Chele to Syanbochen ( Approx 17km, 6-7 hrs)
Day 4: Syanbochhen to Ghami ( Approx 12 km, 5-6 hrs)
Day 5: Ghemi to Tsarang ( Approx 12km, 5-6 hrs)
Day 6: Tsarang to Lo Manthang ( Approx 11km, 4-5 hrs)
For detailed information about the Trekking to Mustang please click the links given below
https://mustangnepal.com/how-long-is-upper-mustang-trek/, https://mustangnepal.com/complete-guide-trekking-in-upper-mustang-nepal/
Learn about ancient tibetan masterpieces found in monasteries
One of a kind Red & Blue mountains and other landscapes.
Ancient Yartung Festival, Tiji Festivals unique to Mustang.
One of a kind Red & Blue mountains and other landscapes.
One of a kind Red & Blue mountains and other landscapes.
INFORMATION ON HISTORY, TRADITION & FESTIVAL IN MUSTANG
One of Mustang’s greatest treasures is its Tibetan culture, preserved through centuries of isolation. Visiting Mustang is not just a journey through stunning landscapes, but also a step back in time into a vibrant cultural tapestry of legends, rituals, and traditional ways of life.
Mustang’s calendar is filled with vibrant festivals that celebrate culture and faith. The most famous is the Tiji Festival – a three-day Tibetan Buddhist festival held annually in Lo Manthang (usually in May). Other notable celebrations include Yartung (Yartunga), a post-monsoon festival featuring horse races and feasting, and Losar, the Tibetan New Year celebrated with family gatherings and prayers.
INFORMATION ON ANCIENT KINGDOM, SKY CAVES & MONASTERIES
The crown jewel of Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang is a medieval walled city brimming with history. Inside its mud-brick walls you’ll find the Royal Palace and a maze of narrow alleys leading to centuries-old monasteries (like Thubchen and Jampa Gompa) and lively courtyards. Time seems to stand still here – don’t miss wandering the streets at sunset when golden light hits the red walls of the city. Exploring Lo Manthang Nepal offers a rare glimpse into a bygone era of Himalayan kingdom life.
Just north of Lo Manthang, in the Chhoser area, hundreds of man-made sky caves pepper the sheer cliffs – some nearly 2,000 years old. These mysterious caves were used as dwellings, meditation chambers, and secret storage. You can visit a few accessible caves with a guide. Climb up into the caves to discover ancient rooms and maybe even see old Tibetan Buddhist paintings or artifacts. It’s an awe-inspiring experience that reveals how Mustang’s early inhabitants ingeniously adapted to their environment.
https://mustangnepal.com/sky-caves-the-mysterious-caves-of-nepal/
Located in Lower Mustang near the village of Ranipauwa, Muktinath is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. At 3,710 m elevation, this serene temple complex houses a Vishnu temple and a Buddhist monastery side by side – symbolizing religious harmony. Pilgrims come to bathe under the 108 stone water spouts fed by natural springs, and to see the miraculous “eternal flame” that burns on natural gas beneath the temple. Muktinath also rewards visitors with stunning views of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri ranges. Whether you trek or drive there, the spiritual aura and panoramic mountain backdrop make it a highlight of any Mustang trip.
Scattered throughout Mustang are ancient monasteries (gompas) that are living repositories of art and faith. In addition to Lo Manthang’s famous gompas, notable sites include Ghar Gompa (Lo Gekar) near Dhakmar – one of the oldest in Mustang, linked to the 8th-century saint Guru Rinpoche, and Chusang’s red monasteries set against vivid cliffs. Many of these monasteries contain fragile wall paintings, exquisite statues, and libraries of Buddhist scriptures. Visiting a few gompas – often guarded by prayer wheels at their entrances – will deepen your appreciation of Mustang’s spiritual heritage.
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INFORMATION ON TREKKING SEASONS, TIPS, COSTS AND MORE
Mustang region is open for both local and foreign travelers. In this section, we outline some of the most popular trek routes to Mustang. Also mentioning the best seasons to travel to Mustang and the travel tips which are essential for making the Mustang trekking experience a memorable one.
It is a 14 day trek that takes you through the heart of Upper Mustang, offering unrivaled views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The major attraction of this trekking is the forbidden city of Lo Manthang and the sacred Muktinath Temple. The best time for this trek is during the dry season from March to November.
The Annapurna Circuit is a classic trek that circles the Annapurna massif, and the Mustang extension adds a thrilling adventure into the remote Mustang region. This 20 day journey showcases the diverse landscapes of Nepal, from lush forest to arid plateaus. The ideal time for this trek is from October to early December and March to May.
For those short on time and seeking a less strenuous trek, the Lower Mustang Trek offers a glimpse into the region’s beauty and culture. This 7- 10 days trek takes you through picturesque villages, terraced fields and apple orchards with a backdrop of snow capped mountains. The best months to undertake this trek are from March to May and October to November.
Mustang Mentions
Mustang is famous in Nepal for its unique, barren landscapes, centuries-old monasteries, and rich Tibetan-influenced cultural heritage. The region offers visitors a glimpse into the preserved traditions and customs of the local population, making it a fascinating destination for hiking and cultural enthusiasts alike.
The best time to visit Mustang Nepal is September till November or March till May. The weather remains pleasant during these months with good sunshine and cool nights, which makes for perfect conditions for tourists. However, tourists who are also interested in Tibetan culture and want to enjoy the Tiji Festival generally prefer April through May to visit Mustang.
The cost to visit Mustang depends on factors such as transportation, accommodation, permits, and guide services. On average, a 10-14 day organized trek to Upper Mustang can cost between $2,000 to $4,000 per person, including permits, transportation, accommodation, meals, and guide/porter fees.
The people of Mustang, known as the Loba or Lo-pa, have Tibetan origins and share a strong cultural, linguistic, and religious connection with Tibet. They practice Tibetan Buddhism and follow traditional customs and rituals that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.
A trek to Upper Mustang typically takes 10 to 14 days, depending on the chosen route and pace. This duration allows trekkers to fully explore the region’s villages, and landscapes, while also taking into account the time needed for acclimatization and rest.
In Mustang, it’s important to dress in layers, as the temperature can vary significantly between day and night. Clothing should include a moisture-wicking base layer, insulating layers such as fleece or down jackets, and a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Additionally, sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, a hat, and gloves are essential.
The distance between Kathmandu and Mustang is approximately 185 miles (298 kilometers). Travelers can reach Mustang by flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then taking a connecting flight to Jomsom, the starting point for most treks in the region.
Yes, Mustang experiences snowfall during the winter months, particularly at higher elevations. Snow can occasionally fall during other seasons, but it’s less common.
Mustang is often referred to as a high-altitude desert due to its arid climate, sparse vegetation, and unique landscape characterized by eroded cliffs and rock formations.
Mustang was once an independent kingdom with restricted access to outsiders. The region was only opened to tourists in 1992, and its isolation has helped preserve its unique culture and traditions, earning it the nickname “The Forbidden Kingdom.”
Yes, Upper Mustang is a restricted area in Nepal, requiring a special trekking permit for foreigners. This helps control the number of visitors and maintain the region’s cultural and environmental integrity.
The Upper Mustang Trek is considered moderately difficult, with some steep ascents and descents, high altitude, and daily walking distances of 4 to 6 hours. However, the trek does not require technical climbing skills, and with proper acclimatization and physical preparation, most trekkers can successfully complete the journey.
The Upper Mustang trek typically covers a distance of approximately 80 miles (130 kilometers) and takes 10 to 14 days to complete, depending on the chosen route and pace. This duration includes acclimatization, exploration of the region’s unique landscapes, monasteries, and villages, and rest days for a more enjoyable experience.
What you need to know before planning your trip
Get information about Visa, Permits, Rules, Prices and Guides Details and Accommodation to plan ahead for Upper Mustang for Free. To access the help desk, click below.
To make the most of your Mustang adventure, keep these practical travel tips in mind:
Foreign travelers are required to obtain permits to enter the restricted area of Upper Mustang. Be sure to apply for the Restricted Area Permit ( RAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit ( ACAP) well in advance when you arrive in Nepal. You should be well aware that there are strict boundaries located towards the Tibetan plateau under the People’s Republic of China.
https://mustangnepal.com/the-perfect-time-to-visit-mustang-nepal-complete-guide-for-2022/
Mustang’s peak travel periods are spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Sept–Nov), when weather is mild and stable. Thanks to Mustang’s dry climate (rain-shadow area), summer monsoon (Jun–Aug) is also viable for travel – you’ll avoid heavy rain, though expect windy, dusty conditions in the afternoons. Winters bring snow and harsh cold, with many lodges in Upper Mustang closing, so plan accordingly if considering a winter trip.
With its otherworldly landscapes and living traditions, Mustang offers an experience unlike any other. We hope this guide has given you a valuable overview to plan your trip to Upper Mustang and beyond. Whether you’re trekking through hidden valleys, joining a festival in a hilltop monastery, or simply gazing at the star-filled night skies over the Himalayas, Mustang region is sure to leave you with memories for a lifetime.
