Upper Mustang (Hidden Kingdom) trek

Overview

"Visiting Upper Mustang provides a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in a world untouched by modern influences, where ancient traditions, architecture, and a deep sense of spirituality are still cherished. A journey that travels back in time."

The charms of Upper Mustang trekking in Nepal

• Witness breathtaking mountain views of Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Machhapcuhhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), etc, and desert-like landscapes. Cross numerous mountain passes while enjoying excellent scenery.
• Visit Namgyal Gompa (3,930 m/12,894 ft), Tingkhar (the last main village in the northwest), and the King's palace while in Lo-Manthang (3,840 m/12,598 ft).
•  Interact with some of the oldest mountain tribe families in Mustang and get to know their beliefs, myths, and stories.
• Visit Amchi Museum and Amchi School (traditional medicinal school).
• Explore Ghar Gompa (3,950 m/12,959 ft), one of the oldest monasteries in the Mustang region. It is believed to be built in the 8th century by the famous Tibetan guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche.
• Come across white-washed houses, narrow alleys, apple orchards, and locals casually riding horses.
• Visit the Muktinath Temple (3,710 m/12,172 ft), one of the significant pilgrimage sites in the Himalayas of Nepal. A place where devotees are believed to get rid of their sins and acquire salvation.

Upper Mustang trek is an adventurous journey that unveils trans-Himalayan landscapes adorned with vibrant rock formations, dramatic ravines, and majestic snow-capped mountains. Unlike the famous trekking routes in Nepal, the upper Mustang region is very different in many ways. Known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom due to its historical inaccessibility, the upper Mustang, both culturally and geographically, bears a stronger resemblance to Tibet than to the rest of Nepal.

Nestled within the rain shadow of the mighty Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayas, Upper Mustang is officially recognized as one of Nepal's restricted regions. Trekking in this region only began in 1992, and visitor numbers are strictly limited, with an average of fewer than 1,000 travelers visiting each year. The region's geographical and political isolation from mainstream society has played a crucial role in preserving its unique culture, untouched natural elements, and the ancient essence of centuries-old monasteries.

It is one of the lesser-known treks, with a moderate level of difficulty, and takes you through one of the driest regions of Nepal. As you explore Upper Mustang, you'll encounter ancient monasteries, traditional villages, and cave homes nestled high up on the cliffs. Likewise, the trail is dotted with inscribed rocks, long mani walls, chortens, prayer wheels, stupas, and fluttering prayer flags.

This faraway mountainous region of Nepal is located near Tibet. Therefore, the region has a strong Tibetan influence. You'll notice it in the local people, their way of life, and the dry landscape characterized by tall cliffs and rocks with unique shapes and colors. Lo Manthang serves as the capital of the upper Mustang and still has the ruins of the king's palace. Each step on this trek reveals the rich cultural tapestry of the region, where tales of the past come alive and traditions are deeply rooted in the land.