In March 1992, the forbidden kingdom of Mustang was opened to the outside world. Now for the first time in recent history, tourists are able to visit Lo Manthang, the seat of an ancient kingdom dating back to the 15th century. The kingdom of Lo is situated along the north central border of the main range of the Himalayas in the upper reaches of Mustang district. Lo and the area directly to its south, called Baragaon, which both fall within upper Mustang, can be claimed as one of the most outstanding areas of the Himalayas. The climate and geography of upper Mustang are nearly identical to those of Western Tibet and as such, they are dramatically different from the temperature and tropical area of the south side of the Himalayas. The dry, wind swept ecology of this Trans-Himalayan region is extremely fragile. Fuel wood is virtually non – existent, water is scare, the agriculture land yields insufficient food grain and the marginal and grasslands support only limited numbers of life stock and wildlife. With the influx of tourists, the already pressured desert environment risks further degradation. Trekking here is physically not demanding has the advantage of all season trekking.The king (Raja) lives in his palace in the center while the four major temples from the corners of the town. The people of upper Mustang are called Bhotias and those from Lo are called Lobas. They speak various dialects of Tibetan. Historically, their art and culture flourished due to contact of the traders, monks and religious master passing.
The Mustang region occupies the southern fringes of the Tibetan plateau and is dominated by Himalayan peaks such as Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. This classic and rewarding trek takes us to the border of one of the most remote kingdoms on earth, within a reasonable timeframe and without ascending to extreme altitude. Trekking in this region is an adventure in wonderland. Astonishing altitude variations and ecological diversity make this area overflow with natural beauty. Trek across sacred valleys surrounded by enormous peaks and encounter people from diverse ethnic backgrounds who have carved a lifestyle out of the steep terraces and barren plateaus of the area for thousand of years. Witness the breathtaking views from Poon Hill, experience the hot natural springs in Tatopani and encounter Tibetan traders as you trek to the pilgramage centre of Muktinath, where Buddhists and Hindus alike make the spiritual journey. A fascinating and rewarding Himalayan trek.
Day 01. Arrival at Kathmandu
Arrive at Kathmandu airport (1345meters). You will be met by our representative and transfer to hotel and a short brief about the trekking after refreshment.
Day 02. Sightseeing at Kathmandu
Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath Temple and Baudhanath Stupa.
Day 03. Kathmandu to Pokhara
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. It takes around 6 hours including breakfast and lunch time.
Day 04. Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2700m.) and trek to Kagbeni:
It takes about 25 minutes to fly to Jomsom and four hours to trek from there to Kagbeni.
You take the spectacular early morning flight to Jomsom. Just out of Jomsom you cross a suspension bridge and then walk along the riverbank of the Kali Gandaki. The trail is quite barren with craggy rocks and sand and is mostly flat, which makes it very easy going. It is also very picturesque, with views of big peaks all around such as Dhaulagiri, Tukuche and Nilgiri, whilst to the south can be seen the entire Annapurna Massif.
Day 05. Trek from Kagbeni to Chuksang (2900m.):
It takes about five hours. You trek right up to the river valley, but you use a combination of the high trail and the riverbank pathways. The trail then widens significantly revealing an endless stretch of sand on the west bank of the river; You stop for lunch at the village of Tangbe, where you come across the first black, white and red chortens that typify Upper Mustang. The little town is a labyrinth of narrow alleys among white washed houses, fields of buck wheat and barley and apple orchards. Nilgiri Peak continues to dominate the southern skyline. Chusang village is only about a 2hrs walk beyond Tangbe at the confluence of the Narshing Khola and the Kali Gandaki. Across the river from Chusang are some spectacular red organe pipe eroded cliffs above the mouths of some inaccessible caves.
Day 06. Trek from Chuksang to Samar (3150m.):
It takes about three and half hours. There is a distinct change here, not only in the topography, but also in the culture, lifestyle and people, and the settlements become more scattered, smaller and more basic. The people of Lo or Mustang practice agriculture. Lack of rain and fertile soil, cultivation is carried out in sheltered plots of land, covering the brown landscape with patches of green vegetation. Continuing north, you reach a huge red chunk of conglomerate that has fallen from the cliffs above, forming a tunnel through which the river flows. The trek now leaves the valley and climbs steeply up a rocky alley to the village of Chele. From Chele you climb a steep spur and then continue ascending along the side of a spectacular steep canyon to a pass. Beyond the pass you descend on a pleasant trail to Samar, situated in a grove of poplar trees. This is a major stopping place for horse and mule caravans.
Day 07. Trek from Samar to Geling (3510 m.):
It takes about five hours. You climb above Samar to a ridge and then descend into a large gorge past a chorten before entering another valley filled with juniper trees. You then cross a stream and after climbing to a pass, you descend along a ridge to Shyangmochen a tiny settlement with a few tea shops. Nearby is Rangbyung, a cave containing stalagmites which have formed in the shape of chortens. The trail climbs gently from Shyangmochen and you enter another huge valley before descending to Geling with its extensive fields of barley.
Day 08. Trek from Geling to Ghami (3490 m.) via Ghami La (3520m.):
It takes about five hours. From Geling the trail climbs gently through fields, up to the center of the valley, passing above the settlement of Tama Gun and an imposing chorten. You then begin a taxing climb across the head of the valley to the Nyi La [3840m]. The descent from the pass is quite gentle and about half an hour further on we come to a trail junction; the right trail is the direct route to Charang, the left trail leads to Ghami. Ghami is a large white-washed village sheltered by overhanging cliffs.
Day 09. Trek fram Ghami to Tsarang (3620 m.)
It takes about five hours. Today’s walk is through perhaps the driest part of Mustang. However, the magnificent views of the countryside, from the gentle contours of the north to the rugged mountains in the east and west, are a source of inspiration. Finally, you come to Charang, a large spread-out village at the top of the Charang Chu canyon. At the eastern end of the village are a huge fortress and a red gompa which houses an excellent collection of statues and thangkas.
Day 10. Trek from Tsarang to Lo-Manthang [Mustang] (3730m.)
It takes about three hours. You will spend part of the morning exploring the interesting village of Charang and its large monastery, before setting out for Lo Manthang. You climb gently above the valley to a large isolated chorten that marks the boundary between Charang and Lo. The trail then broadens and eventually you get your first view of the walled city of Lo Manthang. The city has only one entrance so you circumambulate the wall to the gate on the north east corner.
Day 11. Rest Day
Rest at Lo-Manthang to explore.
Day 12. Trek from Lo-Manthang to Ghami (3490 m.):
It takes about six hours. You continue your journey on the highland route, crossing alpine meadows before dropping down a steep eroded alley to Dhakmar for lunch. After lunch, you walk through the pretty valley, climb to a ridge and descend from there back to Ghami.
Day 13. Trek from Ghami to Samar:
It takes about six hours. Leaving Ghami you begin to follow narrow winding path until you reach Geling crossing a small stream. On the way you can enjoy good view of the Nilgiri Mountains, deserted landscapes, Tibetan style villages, farming terraces and natural vegetation. From Geling the path turns broader till Samar passing deserted landscapes, natural vegetation, plateau, Tibetan style houses, chortens, mani walls, prayer flags and observe the distinct culture of the local inhabitants. Samar is a small village with terraces, Tibetan style houses, mani walls, monastery, prayer flags and here you find people following Tibetan life styles and traditions.
Day 14. Trek from Samar to Kagbeni:
It takes about seven hours. Following a descending path you reach Chuksang crossing a suspension bridge over Kali Gandaki. You walk along the bank of Kali Gandaki with views of natural vegetation and apple orchards.
Day 15. Trek from Kagbeni to Jomsom (2713m.):
It takes about three hours. Your trail passes through the bank of Kali Gandaki passing through Eklebhatti. The trail is windy in the early afternoons. Jomsom is the headquarters of Mustang. From here you can have access to the internet and banking facilities.
Note: You have an option to trek all the way to Pokhara following Classic the trial of Annapurna Circuit trekking:
Day 16. Jomsom to Pokhara
Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara which takes about 35 minutes.
Day 17. Pokhara to Kathmandu
Drive or flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 18. Final Departure
Transfer to international airport for your final flight departure.
NOTE: The above information is a guide and standard template of what we provide. The trek can be customized at your request to accommodate your specific requirements.
Note : On adventure trips of this type, weather, local politics, transport or a multitude of other factors beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary. It is, however, very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered; if alterations are necessary the leader will decide what is the best alternative, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. Where a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.
Q.What type of shape do I need to be in, is this trip for me?
A. Trekking is suitable for average people who are moderately fit, thus no previous experience is required. Some physical fitness programs such as running, swimming, hiking is recommended before you embark on your journey. Persons suffering from a pre-existing medical condition or disease must seek medical advice before considering the trek. Whilst on the trek, it is common to experience some discomfort before being fully acclimatized.
To prepare for a strenuous trek you should begin training at least two to three months before your departure. As a guideline, an hour of aerobic exercise three to four times per week would be considered a minimum requirement. The best preparation is bushwalking involving relatively steep ascents and descents. If you can manage a couple of valley floor to ridgeline ascents per comfortable and able to enjoy the trek to the fullest. They are physically strong, sharp-witted and have an incredibly positive attitude towards a life that we would consider extremely tough. There is something about a trek in the Himalaya that draws you back time and time again. For keen walkers it is a paradise and even avowed non-walkers find that one foot just seems to follow the other, drawn by the appeal of what lies beyond.
Q. Will somebody come to pick me up at the Airport upon my arrival?
A. Yes, our Airport Representative will be there to greet you outside of Terminal Hall, he/she will be displaying an Kiwi Adventures Treks & Expedition sign board. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Q. What sort of accommodation can I expect in Kathmandu and in trekking?
A. 11 night’s Trekking Guesthouse, 4 nights three/four star hotels in Kathmandu.
We use standard rooms from three/four star hotels in Kathmandu with breakfast included. Along the trekking routes teahouses/Lodges generally provide basic clean facilities with a mattress and a quilt or blanket. We can also offer you sleeping bags if needed (which need to return after the trip) but it is a good idea to always have your own sleeping equipment. We usually provide single and double rooms as well as the occasional dormitory. The dining room is downstairs around a fire. All food will be cooked to order in the little kitchen. You should not enter the kitchen unless asked to do so.
Q. What sort of food can I expect in trekking?
A. In trekking most teahouses (lodges) cook a delicious range of mostly vegetarian fare. Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, dhal bhat, bread, soups, fresh vegetables (variety depends on the season) and even some desserts like apple pies, pancakes, and some interesting attempts at custard. You will find a lot of garlic on the menu because it assists with acclimatization – eat some every day. In many larger villages you may find some meat on the menu. You can always get hot chocolate, tea, and hot lemon drinks, as well as soft drinks, and treats like chocolate and crisps.
Each day dinner and breakfast are used to take in the same lodge you spend the night. Lunch will be taken on the way to destination.
Q. What sort of transportation you use?
A. Kiwi Adventures Treks & Expedition is all about providing you with local insights as well as adventure, with that in mind, where we think you will get more out of your holiday by using different means of transport that is what we do. Using a variety of private transport is an integral part of our Himalaya tours and enhances the experience!
We use private tourist vehicles for sightseeing, city tours and pickups. Depending on the group size we use cars, minibus, van or land cruiser. These small light vehicles are more manoeuvrable and flexible enabling us to take you through the Narrow roads of Nepal. All the vehicles are usually air-conditioned unless we are travelling in cooler areas.
Q. What is the best season for this trekking?
A. Our trekking season extends from mid- September to May. From early September the monsoonal rains decrease. By end of September through to December the weather is usually stable with mild to warm days, cold nights. February, March, April, May, October, November, December are the best time to do trek.
Q. What is the weather & temperature like in trekking?
A. Weather in the mountains is notoriously difficult to predict. At night it is generally cooler the days are generally warm. Winter (January and February) will be bit colder but the days can be quite beautiful and warm if the sun is out. There will be bit of snow during the month of January, February and December. It is also important to make sure that you can stay warm and dry in just about any conditions. Expect the unexpected! The temperature could be as high as 20 deg C to -15 deg C low.
Q. Can I charge my digital camera or other batteries on my trip?
A. These facilities will be available in most of the places in your hotel reception by paying some service charges. Remember to bring your adapters!
Q. Is there any communication while we are on trekking?
A. There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls.
Q. Can I use credit cards in the places visit in trekking?
A. In most cities yes, to some extent, however once you leave those cities behind, all you need is cash.
Q. How much additional money do I need per day?
A. In Kathmandu, you can allocate US$ 10 – 25 for a lunch / dinner. It’s all depends on your spending habits. US$7 to 10 US$ a day will be enough to buy bottles of water, chocolates and few drinks in trekking.
Q. Do I need to tip my guide and porters? How much would that be?
A. This is a difficult thing to gauge. We have seen everything from 20USD to 1000 USD per person for guides and porters. Tipping is not required, but a small way to show your guides and local porters thanks for their help. The level of the tip should reflect the level of personal involvement with your guide.
Q. Is the water OK to drink? Do I need to bring purifying tablets/filter?
A. In most places bottled water is readily available. If you wish to drink normal water, you need to use purifying aid, which you will need to bring with you.
Q. Are the Kiwi Adventures Treks & Expedition staff insured?
A. Our company insures all our trekking staff, including guide, cook, sherpa and porters.
Q. What essential documents do I need to bring with me on tour?
A. *Valid Passport – must be valid for up to 6 months after you return from your tour, keep a separate photocopy.
*Travel insurance, keep a separate photocopy
*Cash and Traveller’s Cheques, keep numbers and proof of purchase separate
*Flight tickets
*Emergency contact numbers for T/C’s, banks, insurance, family contacts.
Q. Can I add extra days to my trekking trip?
A. A hoilday should never be about making it to the final point quickly. Along your trek we can add days at your request with additional costs to cover guides, porters, accommodation and food.
Q. Do you use yaks/porters on the trek or do we carry all of our own gear?
A. Whilst on the trek, our porter will take care of your luggage. All you need to carry is your small day bag for your personal belongings like camera, water bottle, sun cream etc only.
Q. What opportunities will I have for shower along the trek?
A. In major places, we arrange guesthouse with hot shower. And in rest of the places, hotel water in bucket will be provided for shower; it would cost you extra about USD 3-4 per shower.
Q. Do you know about how many total miles the trek is?
A. Total distance of the entire trek is about 75 miles.
Cost Includes
• Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop by private car / van / bus.
• Standard twin sharing accommodation in three/four star hotel in Kathmandu breakfast included.
• Standard twin sharing accommodation in two/three star hotel in Pokhara breakfast included.
• Guided city tour in Kathmandu and Pokhara by private car / van / bus.
• All your standard Meals during the trek.
• Twin sharing Lodges, Guesthouses accommodation during the trek.
• Airfare from Kathmandu – Pokhara, Pokhara – Jomsom including airport departure tax in Kathmandu and Pokhara airport.
• Local K2 Summit licensed English speaking Guide.
• The required number of local staff and Porters to carry your luggage during the trek.
• Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and medicine for all staff.
• Annapurna conservation Park permits.
• Sightseeing Fees
• Surface transfer from and to Kathmandu.
• All our government taxes.
• Official expense.
Cost Excludes
• Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu and Pokhara .
• Your travel insurance (compulsory, please contact us if you wish to sign up for the Global Rescue membership plan).
• International airfare and airport departure tax.
• Nepal entry visa, you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. You will also require 2 passport size photos.)
• Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks.
• Personal trekking Equipment.
• Tips for trekking staff. (Tipping is expected).
• Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section.