The Highlights of Mustang trek are evident in its rocky plateaus, golden terrain, and the majestic Himalayan range that encircles the valley like a precious pearl necklace. This remote region, once the ancient kingdom of Lo Manthang, is renowned for its colorful barren hills and rich cultural heritage. Every corner of Mustang offers a stunning backdrop, ensuring that every photo taken is a captivating snapshot of its natural beauty and historical charm.
Geographically, Upper Mustang is an ideal place to experience Tibetan plateau culture, akin to visiting Tibet itself. The trail follows a wide path along sandy riverbeds dotted with saligrams (fossilized shells). This trek offers spectacular views of whitewashed settlements, ancient palaces, and serene monasteries nestled in the rain shadow of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic lifestyle of Himalayan people who have had limited contact with the outside world.
The journey to Mustang begins in Jomsom, accessible by a scenic flight from Pokhara. Landing at Jomsom Airport is a breathtaking moment, renowned for its stunning Himalayan vistas, apple orchards, and strong winds. A special trekking permit is required to proceed beyond Kagbeni, and visiting Upper Mustang necessitates being accompanied by a government-appointed official. The trail then leads into the secluded valley of this ancient Buddhist kingdom.
Mustang stands as a distinct world of its own, boasting a unique landscape and culture compared to other regions of Nepal. Here are the top 5 highlights of the Mustang region:
Muktinath is a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists Pilgrims. Thousands of Hindu devotees from Nepal and India visit the Muktinath shrine every year. Jomsom- Muktinath trek offers a picturesque scenery. It is said the bathing in the waters from 108 cow’s head spigots here guarantees salvation after death. It is also famous for its cold springs, Vishnu temple, ancient fossils, and Jwalamai (Goddess of Fire) Temple and natural gas jets that provide Muktinath’s famous eternal flame.
The Tiji Festival
Some might wonder what is so special about Tiji festival and why it is the major attraction of upper Mustang. ‘Tiji‘ the name is an abbreviation of the word “Tempa Chirim” which means “Prayer for World Peace”. Tiji is an interesting annual three-day festival which consists Tibetan rituals and there are different myths on why it is celebrated. There is the myth of a son who had to save the Mustang kingdom from destruction. Similarly, the victory of one of Lord Buddha’s incarnations over a demon that lived on human beings that tried to destroy the world with storms and drought. Anyway, the sole purpose of observing this celebration is to pray for the peace in the region and in the world.
It is a great occasion where Buddhist monks from Choedhe monastery of Lo Manthang organize and perform all the ritual dancing. This trek brings an exceptional and rare cultural experience along with incredible adventure trekking, that can make your trip a life-changing experience. Tiji festival falls after the second week of May every year in the iconic Lo Manthang. Let us know if you want to experience the Tiji Festival.
The Mysteries Sky Caves
The Mysterious Sky Caves in Mustang is a collection of some 10,000 man-made caves dug into the sides of valleys. The caves lie on the steep valley walls near the Kali Gandaki River. There are numerous artifacts belonging like sculptures, Buddhist paintings and manuscripts inside the cave making it one of the world’s greatest archaeological mysteries. It is Located at the height of 155 ft from the ground, and are 2,000 years old. These old caves are covered in mystery regarding who built them and why were they built Or even how people climbed into them?
Lo Manthang
Lo Manthang is the capital of the Kingdom of Lo (Mustang), the town sparkling in the barren landscape. Entering into Lo Manthang through the town gate may seem like you enter a different world. Thought the king doesn’t have any power, he is still highly respected by his people. Also, you can see the palace of the king in Lo Manthang, a huge 4 story high building.
Besides, there are a few beautiful big monasteries; Thugchen Gompa which was built in the 15th century. Similarly one can visit the amchi museum and amchi school. Also, you will be able to see colorful villages and monasteries with a handful of natural and cultural heritage.
Tibetan Buddhist Culture
Mustang is the last extant place where the traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture still in practice in its original form. The remoteness and inaccessibility have preserved distinct Tibetan Buddhist Culture and remains flourishing as it did many years ago. Mustang could be an excellent place to experience untouched Tibetan Buddhist culture, as its impact is still seen in arts, language, and architecture.
Best Season for Mustang trekking
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the most recommended months for Mustang Trek. As it is located in the rain shadow part of the Himalaya, it can also be done during the monsoon season in Nepal of June and August. The decreasing level of Kali Gandaki river in spring enables you to take a vehicle to farther distances in the region so that it makes easy for you to trek.
Although the Mustang trek is possible during winter, the cold temperature and snow might not be suitable for everyone. Even the local people of Lo-Manthang leave the capital to avoid the frosty temperature and snow. You may also want to visit Mustang during the most celebrated festival “Tiji Festival”. This is normally held in the third week of May but dates normally differ and it is decided by the Buddhist calendar.
Do you wanna get immersed into the rain- shadow region of Nepal? If you have any concern about Mustang Trek or hiring a professional experience local guide please do not hesitate to Contact us.