Nepal

Draped along the greatest heights of the Himalayas, Nepal is a land of eternal fascination, ancient history, colourful cultures, superb scenery and some of the best walking on earth.

Trek to the Forbidden Kingdom of Mustang

Trek into the remote and ancient Kingdom of Mustang for a once in a lifetime walking adventure

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Mustang bears little resemblance to the rest of Nepal, its landscape, culture and traditions more akin to traditional Tibet. Ancient forts, medieval villages and colourful monasteries are set against the majestic scenery of the high Tibetan plateau.

Only open to visitors since 1991, Mustang remains a haven of Tibetan culture, rich in ancient traditions, its way of life unchanged by passing centuries. Leaving the regular trekking trails at Kagbeni the trail takes us along the upper reaches of the Kali Ghandaki Valley, through a dramatic landscape of canyons and gorges and over numerous passes to reach our goal, the walled capital of Lo Manthang (3780mtrs). The huge walls surrounding the city enclose an ancient world where time has stood still - this journey is truly a step back in time, an awesome experience!

Trek Data

• Trek for 14/15 days, graded moderate but some sections are more strenuous due to altitude involved, 3,000 and 4,300 meters
• Suited to experienced hikers only. Trekkers who are comfortable walking 16 to 26 kms a day, at higher altitudes, over primitive trails and carrying a day pack. On the longest of days you are on the trail for 8 or 9 hours, including a long lunch break.
• English speaking guide with donkeys carrying the main packs. You will only carry your day pack.
• 4/5 days tea house accommodation, no meals and 10 days camping with all meals.

Trek Outline

Arriving by air in Jomsom we'll meet our trekking crew and after loading up will walk 3hrs or so to the mediavel settlment of Kagbeni for our first overnight stay. On leaving Kagbeni we will enter the long protected region of Upper Mustang, walking through a magnificent gorge of red/gold fluted cliffs which will seem to close upon us we will be transported centuries back in time. Each day we will pass solitary monasteries that for centuries have been the symbols and spiritual pillars to these rugged Loba (Lo people, which means "East people".) After several days of trekking and crossing many canyons and passes, we will reach a ridge at 3,850m for our first views of the walled city of Lo Manthang (3,780m). To the East is a spectacular view of red, blue-gray, white and yellow eroded canyons, to the North lie red colored hills and the Tibetan border, while to the West is the snow-capped peak of Mansail. We will descend the ridge and soon arrive at Lo Manthang. Here we will spend two days exploring the old walled city, visiting monasteries, the red gompa’s, a local school and the Royal Palace. Just being in Lo Manthang, to wander the streets and observe the way of life is fascinating; it’s like being transported back into the middle ages. On one of the days we will make a most interesting side trip high into the surrounding hills to visit a community of nomadic yak herders.

On our way back to Jomsom the views are quite different with the high snow clad peaks of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri dominating the landscape. We will take a slightly different route to visit other outlying villages and from Kagbeni make a side trip to the Hindu Shrine at Muktinath, high on the Thorung La Pass. Finally return to the civilisation of Jomsom and fly back to Pokara.

Price

Will include Auckland/Auckland airfares, trekking permits (includes the special Mustang US$500 entry permit), sherpas, porters, guide, all meals while camping, 4 domestic Nepal flights and hotels in Pokara and Kathmandu

Interested?

We anticipate being able to offer this trip in 2011, starting mid September. A "Keep Me Posted" List is operating, so if you would like to be kept informed of plans please have your name added to the list.

Please read our Frequently Asked Questions for important general information. For more specific details about this trip (including an itinerary) please Contact Us.