Embark on a transformative journey to the fabled Upper Mustang, often hailed as the ‘Last Forbidden Kingdom.’ This sacred realm, opened to organized treks only in 1992, preserves its mystique with restricted access, welcoming less than 1,000 visitors annually. Immerse yourself in the untouched Tibetan Buddhist culture, where ancient monasteries, traditional villages, and cliffside cave dwellings whisper tales of a bygone era. The crown jewel of this adventure awaits in the walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the Mustang region.
The 14-day Upper Mustang trek unfolds as an odyssey through the remote Trans-Himalayan Region, a semi-independent Tibetan Kingdom. Traverse a mesmerizing landscape, characterized by a semi-arid desert adorned with vibrant rock formations, deep ravines, and the majestic backdrop of snow-capped peaks. The journey seamlessly intertwines with the rich tapestry of history, culture, myths, and legends, harmonizing with the breathtaking scenery.
Mustang, colloquially referring to the arid Tibet-like expanse at the northern tip of the Kali Gandaki, exudes an enigmatic charm rooted in a long, complex history. Records date back to the 8th century, and the echoes of legends and mysteries linger in the air. The terrain mirrors the Tibetan plateau, revealing endless stretches of yellow and grey hills sculpted by the persistent caress of the wind. In the lower part of Upper Mustang, vibrant red cliffs emerge, comprised of tiny round stones bound together by mud, punctuated by villages that appear as mirages in the desert-like landscape.
Our trek itinerary unfolds like a carefully crafted saga:
Days 1 & 2: Arrival in Kathmandu, a time for trek preparation, rest, and exploratory sightseeing.
Day 3: Fly to Pokhara, immersing in the vibrant atmosphere of the town.
Day 4: Journey to Jomsom, commencing the trek towards Kagbeni.
Days 5 to 11: Traverse the ethereal Upper Mustang region, reaching the pinnacle of Lo Manthang and Namgyal, before retracing our steps to Jomsom.
Days 12 & 13: A scenic flight to Jomsom, and onward to Pokhara, with nights spent in comfortable hotels.
Day 14: Conclude the adventure with a flight back to Kathmandu.
Day 15: Embark on your onward journey or dive into a new adventure.
Witness the essence and beauty of this hidden kingdom through the lens of independent traveler and filmmaker Yannick Calonge in his captivating clip, “The Hidden Kingdom: MUSTANG (Nepal).”
This trek is not just a physical journey; it’s an immersion into a realm where time stands still, and the soul resonates with the echoes of a storied past.
