Lower Mustang Trek
-
- Activities
- Lower Mustang Trek
-
- Max Elevation
- 3795m at Muktinath
-
- Trip Duration
- 16 Days
-
- Trip Grade
- Easy
-
- Lodging
- Eco Lodges
-
- Meals
- Full Board on Trek & BB Plan on City
-
- Transportation
- Private vehicle & flight
-
- Communication
- Available
-
- Group Size
- Any
-
- Best Season
- Autumn and Spring
-
- Per Day Walk
- Approx. 5 - 6 Hours
Trip Highlights of Lower Mustang Trek :
- Explore the cultural village of the Gurung people at Ghandruk.
- Explore Poon Hill (3210m) – the best view of Dhaulagiri and the entire Annapurna massif.
- Trek along Kali Gandaki Valley – the world’s deepest gorge, Marpha – the apple garden & Muktinath – the holy temple.
- Enjoy Hot spring at Tatopani.
- Enjoy a Scenic flight from Jomsom-Pokhara
Trip Introduction :
Lower Mustang is a part of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project, which has the largest protected biodiversity area in Nepal. The trek offers the opportunity to explore the Tibetan culture as Mustang is considered for its long historical and cultural relationship with Tibet. In addition, the Gurung, community-based Mag community-based villages are nevertheless unique with their welcoming nature. The scenic Himalayan panorama of Dhaulagiri and the entire Annapurna massif is an unforgettable life experience.
Lower Mustang Trek with Nepal Guide Treks starts with a six hours drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then two hours drive further to Nayapul from where the trekking starts. The route heads towards Ghandruk (1950m) – a Gurung community-based village popular for its cultural and traditional significance. Walking through dense rhododendron-filled forests the trail reaches Ghorepani (2874m). An early morning hike from Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3210m) is a must for breathtaking scenic views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massif.
The Lower Mustang trail then goes through Tatopani, Ghasa towards the apple garden of Marpha(2670m). The trail is followed through the deepest gorge in the world – Kali Gandaki Valley. The route then heads towards Muktinath (3795m) – a Hindu temple with huge religious significance, and finally to Jomsom. An early morning flight to Pokhara after several days of trekking surely is a good option. Drive back to Kathmandu from Pokhara is how the trek ends with Nepal Guide Treks.
Please Visit: Essential Tools & Gear for Trekking
-
Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu [1345m/4411ft] and transfer to Hotel.
Our airport arrival and departure representative will be at Tribhuvan International Airport on your arrival schedule. You will be transferred to the hotel and our staff will help you until check-in procedure ends at Hotel. Either you can have rest at Hotel or visit NGT’s office. In the evening, join our welcome dinner program organized by Nepal Guide Treks and Expedition Team.
Accommodation: Hotel/Resort
Meals: BB Plan + Welcome Dinner. -
Day 02: Sightseeing at Kathmandu
Click here for detail info about world heritage sites of UNESCO in Nepal
Note: It is not possible to visit all world heritage sites in Kathmandu within a day. So you can choose at least 3-4 places for day sightseeing.Accommodation: Hotel/Resort
Meals: BB Plan -
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara [914m/2997ft] [6 hrs drive]
After breakfast, we will take a six hours drive to Pokhara which is situated about 200 kilometres west of Kathmandu. We will drive over Prithvi Highway along the banks of Trisuli River and head upstream to its junction with the Marsyangdi River. Our drive passes through heavily terraced fields and small hill towns to the Seti River that takes us directly into Pokhara. Having pleasant weather, Pokhara is tourist’s paradise full of natural as well as cultural heritage sites such as lakes, caves, temples of Buddhist and Hindus along with mountains. You can observe views to the north across the hills and Phewa Tal (lake) to the white peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. This drive will take most of the morning, leaving much of the afternoon to fall in love with its beauty.
Accommodation: Hotel/Resort
Meals: BB Plan -
Day 04: Drive to Nayapul [1050m/3444ft] & Trek to Ghandruk [1950m/6396ft] [2 hrs drive & 4-5 hrs walk]
We drive for another one and a half hour to reach Nayapul – the starting point of our trek. From Nayapul we start our trek along the sub-tropical Modi Khola river valley towards Birethanti. At Birethanti we make a stop at the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)’s checkpoint. After completing the permit check process our trail heads north up the Modhi Khola valley over a rough dirt road trail that ends at Kimche. From there we will climb the stone-paved trail all the way up to Ghandruk. The village is inhabited by Gurung tribe communities and is an amazing example of stonework. There are several tea houses and other services at Ghandruk.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner] -
Day 05: Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani [2590m/8495ft] [4-5 hrs of walk]
From Ghandruk we will follow the main trail that heads from the northwestern end of the village towards Tadapani. Our trek is a gradual climb through dense forest filled with rhododendron and oak trees where we will have the opportunity to spot several species of birds and wild animals. We will arrive at a place called Bheri Kharka where there are few tea shops. The area is a paradise for bird lovers as we trek along with mesmerizing sounds of birds chirping. We will continue our trek until we arrive at Tadapani for our overnight stay.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner] -
Day 06: Trek from Tadapani to Ghorepani [2874m/9426ft] [5-6 hrs of walk]
From Tadapani we will follow the trail that starts with a short descend to cross over a small stream and climb uphill towards Banthati where there are few tea houses and other facilities. We continue our trek with several ascends and descends through beautiful oak forest to reach the village of Ghorepani. From here we will have magnificent views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fish-Tail) and other fascinating snow-capped peaks.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner] -
Day 07: Early Morning hike to Poon Hill [3210m/10528ft] and back to Ghorepani. Trek from Ghorepani to Tatopani [1190m/3903ft] [ [7-8 hrs of walk]
We will make an early morning hike up to Poonhill for enjoying the sunrise view over Mt. Dhaulagiri 8167m, Annapurna South 7219m, Machhapuchhre (Fish-Tail) 6997m, Tukuche Peak 6920m, Hiunchuli 6441m, and other numerous snowcapped mountain peaks. Then, we continue our trail downhill passing through Ghar Khola and head towards Tatopani. Magnificent view of Mount Nilgiri can be seen from Tatopani. On our route, we can see a variety of wild animals, birds with eye-catching waterfalls and sceneries along the way. At Tatopani, we can enjoy and relax at the natural hot spring bath where the water is approximately about 60 degrees hot.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner] -
Day 08: Trek from Tatopani to Ghasa[2010m/6592ft] [6-7 hrs of walk]
From Tatopani, we will trek on a broad motor road trail that can be quite dusty. Our trek goes along the Kali Gandaki river. We will gradually ascend passing through the magnificent waterfall of Rupche Chahara. We continue to trek along the dusty trail that leads through deep gorges where we can hear the huge flows of the river stream and continue trekking to reach the village of Ghasa.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner] -
Day 09: Trek from Ghasa to Marpha[2670m/8757ft] [6-7 hrs of walk]
Leaving Ghasa we will follow the trail that goes through the forest along the banks of Lete river and heads towards Lete. From there we trek along the east side of Kali Gandaki Valley to reach Larjung village. We will continue our trek until we arrive at the apple garden of Marpha. Marpha is a picturesque stone-flagged village surrounded by apple orchards from which the locals produce cider and brandy.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner] -
Day 10: Trek from Marpha to Kagbeni[2800m/9184ft] [5-6 hrs of walk]
From Marpha we will follow a broad trail that goes along the east bank of the river towards Ekla Bhatti. From here we will continue to trek along the bottom of the valley to reach the village of Kagbeni. Kagbeni is a settlement of narrow flagstone paved paths and houses with flat rooftops. Beyond the village, we can enjoy stunning views of the gompa with Nilgiri, Tilicho Peak, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri rising above us.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner] -
Day 11: Trek from Kagbeni to Muktinath [3795m/12447ft] [4-5 hrs of walk]
Leaving Kagbeni we will follow the trail that ascends steeply to the upper valley with magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak and the Kali Gandaki Valley. We will pass through one of the oldest village in the region – the village of Jharkot where the culture and tradition are largely influenced by Tibetan culture. From there we will climb all the way to reach an important pilgrimage site for Buddhist and Hindus – Muktinath. The holy shrine is a Buddhist gompa and a pagoda-style temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. From here we can enjoy magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak and other chains of snow-topped high peaks.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner] -
Day 12: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom [2713m/8898ft] [4-5 hrs of walk]
From Muktinath, we will follow the trail that leads to Jharkot. From here we will avoid the motor road by following a small irrigation stream to reach Khingar. However, here onwards we will have to follow the road route that will lead us all the way to Jomsom. Jomsom is the main administrative centre and headquarters of Mustang. After arriving at Jomsom, we will celebrate the completion of our wonderful Lower Mustang Trek.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner] -
Day 13: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara. Free day at Pokhara for sightseeing.
We take an early morning scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Pokhara is home to thick forest, emerald lakes and a place of remarkable natural beauty. The reflection of the Machhapuchre (Fish-Tail) Himal over the serene Fewa Lake makes this place truly magical. Besides, visiting sacred places and sightseeing around the city in Pokhara could be a good way to spend your day.
Accommodation: Hotel/Resort
Meals: BB Plan -
Day 14: Drive from Pokhara back to Kathmandu.
It takes approximately four to five hours drive to reach Kathmandu from Pokhara. We drive along Prithvi Highway which offers scenic hilly zigzag roads through the banks of Trishuli River. The daily activities of the local people can be seen along the road when we pass through many villages and towns.
Accommodation: Hotel/Resort
Meals: BB Plan -
Day 15: Free day in Kathmandu
You would surely like to see as much of Kathmandu as possible. The world heritage sites inside Kathmandu, if not visited on the second day of the trip can be visited on this day. An early start is practical to visit the temples of Kathmandu. Also, walking around the shopping area of Thamel is worth spending quality time at Kathmandu. We will have a final meal together in the evening.
Accommodation: Hotel/Resort
Meals: BB Plan + Farewell Dinner -
Day 16: Transfer to International Airport for departure
Our representative will drop you at the International Airport as per your flight schedule.
- Airport Arrival and Departure transfer by private vehicle.
- Hotel/Resort Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with BB Plan –as per mentioned in Itinerary – 4 nights in Kathmandu and 2 Nights in Pokhara
- Tea house lodges accommodation during trekking
- All meals- B/F, Lunch & Dinner during the trek
- TIMS – Trekkers information Management System and Annapurna Conservation Area Fee
- All ground transportation by private vehicle as mentioned in the itinerary
- Jomsom – Pokhara flight
- Trekking guide and required number of porters
- Staffs insurance, salary and clothing
- General first aid kids
- All necessary paperwork and government taxes
- Personal nature expenses
- Bar bill and all kind of drinks
- Rescue & Evacuation
- Gratitude (tip) for staff
The given rates are per person with guaranteed departure schedules. If the given dates are not appropriate for you, please feel free to contact us for requesting a new dates, we will gladly personalize the itinerary and schedule of the trip that fits for you.
Check our assured departure schedules given below:
Start Date | End Date | Price | Availability | Booking |
---|---|---|---|---|
2 Oct, 2023 | 17 Oct, 2023 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
13 Oct, 2023 | 28 Oct, 2023 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
20 Oct, 2023 | 4 Nov, 2023 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
27 Oct, 2023 | 11 Nov, 2023 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
2 Nov, 2023 | 17 Nov, 2023 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
20 Nov, 2023 | 5 Dec, 2023 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
10 Mar, 2024 | 25 Mar, 2024 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
17 Mar, 2024 | 1 Apr, 2024 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
27 Mar, 2024 | 11 Apr, 2024 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
7 Apr, 2024 | 22 Apr, 2024 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
12 Apr, 2024 | 27 Apr, 2024 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
20 Apr, 2024 | 5 May, 2024 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
27 Apr, 2024 | 12 May, 2024 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
4 May, 2024 | 19 May, 2024 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
13 May, 2024 | 28 May, 2024 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
2 Sep, 2024 | 17 Sep, 2024 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
13 Sep, 2024 | 28 Sep, 2024 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
20 Sep, 2024 | 5 Oct, 2024 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
30 Sep, 2024 | 15 Oct, 2024 | USD 1155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
Lower Mustang Trek Difficulty
Trekking in Mustang is a dream today. It is the most popular trekking destination in Nepal. Lower Mustang Trekking is comparatively easier than Upper Mustang Trekking. Mustang, which is also known as the cold desert affords the most spectacular mountain views, most appealing landscapes, the most hospitable people and culture. Trekking in Lower Mustang Region is a moderate experience. Trekking around Jomsom is little bit difficult otherwise you will have pleasant experiences all around.
Lower Mustang Trek offers best experiences all around. If you consider for the weather condition and prepare for it, nothing will create obstacles for you. Altitude might be a little problem for you. However, you will be spending your night at around the elevations of 3000 m and you shall have enough time to acclimatize. The highest point also doesn’t exceed more than 3710 m.
Muktinath Temple, Kagbeni and Dumba Lake Region will refresh your mind and mood during this trek. Just be sure about the time and weather condition before you begin. Have some physical preparation and yoga practices for a couple of days.
Best Season for Lower Mustang Trek
Trekking and Hiking are the most popular leisure activities around the world. They can be great pursuit of happiness if they are secured and successful. Therefore, before undertaking these activities we must be very clear about when to go.
Hiking in Nepal can be done throughout the year. Autumn and spring are the best seasons to go on trekking in Nepal. Every season has something distinct. Autumn season lasts for September to November and Spring Season lasts for March to May. To visit almost all regions of Nepal these two seasons are ideal.
During Spring Season Nepal experiences moderate climate. The hills will be veiled with the blossoms of Rhododendron, orchid etc. Autumn Season is the loveliest season in Nepal. The temperature is warm even at the Mountains. The days will be clear which affords the best mountain views. These two seasons are perfect for every part of the country.
Winter season (December to January) is little colder at the Himalayas. The precipitation will be at the form snowfall. However, the days are still warmer with plenty of sunshine. The rainfall is occasional. If you like to travel in peaceful trails and can cope up with extreme cold weather, you can choose winter season.
Nepal experiences summer monsoon. We don’t recommend Summer Season (June to August) to you. However, this season can be the best time to visit the rain shadow areas like Mustang and Manang.
Preparation for Lower Mustang Trek
Work one after proper planning and much preparation never fails. Trekking and Hiking is also such a event which requires a lot of preparations. These pursuits require a good level of physical fitness. Not only good physique helps you out, but also a mental strength is vital. If you have undertaken some smaller hikes earlier, trekking will be much easier for you. You need to be familiar with trekking and climbing gears.
Besides that you need to be aware of basic climbing and mountaineering skills also depending upon the difficulty level. Cardio, yoga, jogging, running, swimming, etc. helps you to build up your physics. Stress Endurance Practice helps you to build up your mental capacity. Similarly, have plenty of hygienic foods including protein, carbohydrates and minerals. Here are some tips for preparing for any trekking/Climbing or Hiking in Nepal:
- Go for a run or hike to hills where you have to do ascents and descents.
- Once a week, do a long walk.
- Swim and cycle.
- You can also go up and down the stairs of a tall building.
- Eat healthy food.
- Keep on doing yoga. If you can, do more yoga related to breathing.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude Sickness is also known as Acute Mountain Sickness. It is a medical condition when our body could not adjust to the environment due to the low level of oxygen in the air. At high altitude, the level of the oxygen in the air is thin due to which our body can not adjust easily to the environment. Normally, it is more common above 2500 meter above the symptoms.
Common Symptoms: Headache, Nausea, Dizziness, Vomiting, Fatigue, Loss of Appetite, Trouble Sleeping etc.
Types of Altitude Sickness:
- Acute Mountain Sickness: It is very common at high altitude and can cause vomiting, dizziness, nausea etc. overall, it is the mildest form of altitude sickness.
- High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): It is a very dangerous and life threatening conditions because fluid is built up in the lungs.
- High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): It is the most severe stage of Altitude Sickness because fluid is built up in the brain. It is life threatening one. The victim will be unable to walk, breathe and ultimately in Coma.
Treatment:
If you realize any other symptoms associated with Altitude Sickness other than Headache, just change your elevation. If the symptoms are severe, you need immediate medical attention. You need to consult with a physician. The best treatment of Altitude Sickness is to climb down as low as possible. If you are at a very high altitude, just climb below 4000m. If you have High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) , you might need a steroid called Dexamethasone. If you have High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), you will need supplemental oxygen and other medications.
Prevention:
The best way to prevent Altitude Sickness is to have a lot of Acclimatization. That simply means climb high and sleep low. Here are some of the basic guidelines for preventing Altitude Sickness.
- Do not climb hurriedly. Keep your pace steady.
- Do have a lot of acclimatization.
- Do not drink alcohol or do not smoke.
- Drink plenty of fresh water.
- Eat plenty of hygienic foods.
- Use Diamox Pills 24 hrs prior to the climb.
Trekking Gears for Lower Mustang Trek
For the safe, secure, and successful trekking experience, we need some gears and instruments. We also may require some technical trekking instruments depending upon the difficulty grade. Here we are going to discuss briefly about trekking gears and instruments for Nepal.
Packing: Duffle Bag (It is useful if you hire a porter, It must be waterproof, durable, and lockable), Rucksack Bag with Waterproof Cover (It is useful if you travel independently), Daypack
Clothings: Hiking Boots, Socks, Gloves, Hat, Scarf, Shell Pants, Light Weight Walking Pants, Fleece Jacket, Waterproof Jacket, Thermal Vest, T-shirts, Hiking Shorts etc.
Sleeping: Sleeping Bag, Pillow Case, and other Sleeping Accessories
Other Accessories: Trekking Poles, Water filters, Harness, Mosquito Repellent, Towel, and other luxury items.
Ten Essentials for Trekking
- Navigation (Map/ Compass)
- Sun Protection (Sunglass/Sun Screen)
- Insulation( Extra Clothing)
- Illumination (Headlamp/ Flashlight)
- First Aid Supplies
- Fire (Waterproof Matches/lighter/ Candle)
- Repair Kits and tools
- Nutrition (Extra Food)
- Emergency Shelter (Tent/ Plastic Tube Tent/ Garbage supplies)
- Extra Clothes
Is Nepal Safe for Trekking?
No doubt, Nepal is safe. In fact, it is safer than any other countries of the world. Nepal is a country full of diversities. Nepali people are hospitable, kind, and cultured. Nepali people are also religious and spiritual by nature. Therefore, they understand the language of love and kindness better than other. For them, service to human is service to the God.
Tourism is the mainstay of the Nepalese economy. Trekking is the best thing to do in Nepal. Nepal has so many trekking destinations which offer you the best memories of your life. But the trails in many different parts of Nepal are yet to be discovered. High Altitude, unpredictable weather conditions, strenuous trails, are not easy to handle. Snow storm and snow blast are the other challenges that may disturb you otherwise Trekking in Nepal is full of Surprises. It is a museum full of social, cultural, and natural riches.
As far as your safety concerned, Nepal is safe for trekking and hiking. The existing trekking trails are upgraded and they have become populous. The 10 years long armed revolution has also come to an end with peaceful politics. Along with the formulation of her new constitution, the socio economic development of Nepal has started to speed up. No more procession, rallies, strikes will disturb you.
On the other hand, the scars of devastating earthquake (2015 AD) are also being healed up along with the completion of reconstruction. You shouldn’t bother about your safety and security in Nepal. It is our responsibility to satisfy you. Putting Visit Nepal -2020 into considerations, Nepal has been working out day and night to make her safe, secure and worth visiting country in the globe.
Don’t let the opportunity go, come and visit Nepal in 2020.
Meals
Most of the classic trekking destinations in Nepal have developed the basic infrastructures for tourism industry. There won’t be problem for your meal. In Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, and other major cities you will have a varieties of dishes including Indian, Continental, Chinese, Italian and other. Whereas, at remote areas where there are no or few tea house are located, our crew will prepare meal for you.
There won’t be much varieties since the will have to carry the entire camping and kitchen instrument with themselves which is practically very difficult. But we strive hard to provide healthy food with added delicacy.
Our trekking packages include Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Accommodation
We offer you a three star accommodation while in Kathmandu. We will be staying at the available lodge or teahouse on the trek. Some of the trekking regions have adequate teahouse whereas some are very remote and we shall depend on Camping. You have to be ready to spend night under the tent for some days in some places. Otherwise, we shall provide you a comfortable stay at hotels with en suite bathroom and hot showers. The rooms will be single or twin sharing as per the availability.
Tips for Lower Mustang Trek
- Try not alone; always hire a professional local trekking Guide
- Learn safety rules
- Acclimatize and Acclimatize
- Choose the right trail for your fitness
- Carry local currency
- Pace yourself, don’t travel under pressure
- Wear the most comfortable dress help you to succeed
- Select a Government Licensed Trekking Agency
- Be familiar with the trails
- Check the weather condition before you begin
- Tell someone where you will be
- Buy an Insurance Policy with the appropriate coverage
- Pack ten Essentials
Final Say
Lower Mustang Trek is one of the inspiring journeys. It is one of the most sought out places of Nepal and now has become one of the prominent parts of Annapurna Region. If you have been in Nepal and haven’t gone to this region, you have missed so much about Nepal. Mustang is easily reachable as well. You can directly fly to Jomsom if you are unable to take a journey of 5/6 hours every day.
Otherwise, a healthy body and mind is much to go on this trek. If you are also thinking of going in this trek in your upcoming visit in Nepal, Please visit our office. We will have a cup of tea and discuss more about this together.
Immigration Office at Kathmandu Airport Facilitating Tourist Visa on arrival.
Visa Fees:
Two Weeks – 30 USD
One Month (Four Weeks) – 50 USD
Three Month (90 Days) – 125 USD
For more info, please email at info@nepalguidetreks.com
Visa Extension Fees:
Tourist Visa Extension required a minimum of 15 days (USD 45)and USD 3 for each extra days.