What is Upper Mustang and where is it located?

Upper Mustang is a region in the Himalayas of Nepal, situated in the north-central part of the country. It is known for its unique Tibetan culture and stunning landscapes.

Are there any direct flight from Kathmandu to Jomsom?

To get to Jomsom one has to fly to Pokhara first, the second biggest city of Nepal - this literally means there isn't any direct flight to Jomsom form Kathmandu straight. But, visiting and staying overnight in Pokhara and catching the early morning flight to Jomsom is something not to be missed.

What is the difficulty level of the Upper Mustang Trek?

The trek is considered moderate in terms of difficulty. The trails can be rough and challenging at times, and you will be walking at higher altitudes, so acclimatization is important. However with the building of the Kora-La Highway most of the trekking trail has been taken away which literally means you will be walking on jeepable roadway most of the time.

Are there teahouses or lodges along the trekking route?

Yes, as of now there are cozy teahouses and lodges available along the Upper Mustang Trek route, making it a teahouse trek. You can find basic to luxury accommodation in a few places. However, cozy accommodation and meals is everywhere, but it's a good idea to carry some side snacks and bottled water with you.

What should I pack for the Upper Mustang Trek?

You should pack warm clothing, sturdy trekking boots, a good backpack, a sleeping bag, and other essentials. Since the valley of Mustang is deep the wind is pretty strong. As you go higher the wind chill gets more stronger so be well equipped. With the raising dust along the way it's a good idea to save just a pair for trekking and more for change once you get to your guest house. Be sure to check the weather and temperature conditions before your trip.

Is there any chance of Altitude Sickness while doing Upper Mustang Trek?

The highest sleeping elevation while doing Mustang Tiji Festival trek is (3,800 m/12,467 ft). Though we go over some high passes but eventually we drop down to lower height for sleeping. Besides other mild mountain ailments like food poisoning or diarrhea there is no record of altitude sickness issues while doing Upper Mustang trek. However, we provide medically trained Group leaders with medications and oxygen cylinders to deal with any altitude sickness and other common mountain ailments.

How busy is Mustang during Tiji Festival time?

Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is earnestly busy since this being one of the principal festivals of Mustang the flow of tourists both local and international will be in enormous volumes. Furthermore, Mustang has very limited lodges since it was opened to outside world only in 1992 and the Tea-House accommodation started very recently so the probability of these tea-houses being absolutely occupied can be potential. However, depending on the earliest booking we give our best to do advance booking where possible and we always have cozy tents for backups in case of emergency.

What actually is Tiji Festival?

The Tiji festival, “prayer for world peace” which usually takes place in the month of May is an annual event of the native to honor the victory over evil. This three days religious ceremony is fundamentally celebrated to strengthen the hope of the people of Lo. The native have faith over the legends of a deity being reincarnated and bringing an end to all the evils and suffering – to mark this, monks in their colorful costumes and masks dance to the soothing rhythm which is simply magical.

How difficult is Upper Mustang trek? can anyone join?

Upper Mustang, though a moderate trek it is quite challenging, due to the variation of undulating trial that swings with diverse altitude. It’s a desert of Nepal with tons of river valleys where our trail literally runs through making it remarkably a walk with an amount of up and down climb. However, anyone with sensible fitness can join the Upper Mustang trek as the Nepal Pyramids itinerary is very well designed with slow pacing making every step more tranquil than exhausting. It's indeed a heaven for keen walkers. NOTE: Anyone with a weak ankle/knee, Heart/Lungs or any Pre-Medical history needs to seek the consent of their doctors which is mandatory.

Is Upper Mustang trek intended for anyone with any level of fitness?

Upper Mustang, though a moderate trek it is quite challenging, due to the variation of undulating trial that swings with diverse altitude. It’s a desert of Nepal with tons of river valleys where our trail literally runs through making it remarkably a walk with an amount of up and down climb. However, anyone with sensible fitness can join the Upper Mustang trek as the Nepal Pyramids itinerary is very well designed with slow pacing making every step more tranquil than exhausting. It's indeed a heaven for keen walkers. NOTE: Anyone with a weak ankle/knee, Heart/Lungs, or any Pre-Medical history needs to seek the consent of their doctors which is mandatory.

How busy is Mustang trek? Is it doable in winter?

Mustang trip is earnestly busy during the Tiji Festival that falls around the month of May. This being one of the principal festivals of Mustang the flow of tourists both local and international will be in enormous volumes. However, for the rest of the years apart from winter Mustang will be pretty unoccupied. We don’t recommend the Mustang trek during winter due to the closure of lodges, inaccessibility due to heavy snow, and utter chill weather circumstances.

When is the best time to trek in Upper Mustang?

The best time to trek in Upper Mustang is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Winter (December to February) is not recommended for Upper Mustang Trek

What permits do I require for Upper Mustang trek?

Upper Mustang is a restricted area for which trekkers need to be associated with a local company – Permits required for this restricted area are: Special permits that cost $500 per trekker for 10 days which is a minimum permit validation Days authentication and extra $50 per trekker per day will be charged for additional days extension, ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) permit and TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) permit. However, all these will be prearranged before your arrival in Kathmandu.

What is the flight situation like to and from Jomsom?

Jomsom happens to be the 'Windy Valley' of Nepal and our air aviation is quite strict about flying small planes to these remote mountain airstrips. Secondly, there are flight delays and sometimes cancellations under various weather circumstances. However, this isn't an everyday story and there is an alternative of driving to and from Jomsom in case of flight cancellation. Though driving may be very long (9/10 hrs) in comparison to flying yet the fun of driving through the world's deepest gorge has a different charm.

Do I need to take Diamox for Upper Mustang trip?

All our itineraries are intended to make the altitude variation appropriate for ample acclimatization, though the chances of getting AMS in Mustang are zero as we ascend very progressively. Furthermore, the highest point we sleep at is not more than 3,800 m / 12,467 feet. Moreover, we provide medically professional leaders who are certified and skilled at dealing with altitude-related ailments. Since the Mustang trek starts off with a very gradual ascent we don’t recommend taking Diamox or any altitude-related medication.

What kind of food and accommodation are we to expect in Upper Mustang trek?

Upper Mustang trek which was opened to the outside world only in 1992 started off as a camping trek where tea house trekking started very recently. The tea houses that we see now in this region is nothing but the extension of their own houses which is quite basic and delivers twin bed sharing rooms with hygienic COMMON toilet and bathrooms. During the Tiji Festival time which normally falls on the month of May these tea houses will be houseful and most trekkers use tents or homestay facility to witness this incredible festival. You may have a variety of choices for the food but most tea houses still need to improvise in their making of Western food so please expect the least of what comes to the table as per your order - So far with Nepal Pyramids absolute contentment prevails in regards to meals and Local Tea-House.

Do I need to have Travel insurance for Upper Mustang trip?

It is always very wise to have an all-inclusive travel insurance policy covering all the aspects of your adventure including trip delays, cancellation, loss of property, sickness, or air evacuation. Though your leaders are highly trained to cope with any emergency situation sometimes even after the best of our precautions things happen. It is essential that you have the right travel insurance to cover yourself from everyday trekking injuries like sprained ankles to life-threatening conditions and natural disasters.

What is the drinking water arrangements for this trip?

Mineral water is rampant in the Upper Mustang region yet Nepal Pyramids, for the environmental concern we are opposed to the use of disposable plastic bottles on any of our trips to Nepal Himalayas. With no additional cost, our staff will supply you with appropriately boiled water every morning and evening for which at least 2 metal or plastic Nalgene bottles are recommended. In case you run out of the delivered water you can always buy boiled and filtered water from the tea houses along the way at minimal charges.

Device Charging, Wi-Fi and Hot Shower facility in Mustang trip?

The charging facility is not possible in all the settlements of Mustang as they still lack the Hydroelectricity facility and people still rely on their solar panels. Further, the villages with electricity facilities usually have a power cut during day time to stabilize the supply which is already very low. It is always wise to carry some extra batteries or fully charged power bank batteries to charge your devices - besides, your batteries run out pretty quickly in the cold. Over trivial cost, all tea houses provide you with basic hot showers that include solar showers, gas showers,s or Bucket showers. Once we enter into the restricted area of Mustang the Wi-Fi facility is more like zero, Lo-Manthang provides you with a Pre-Paid Wi-Fi connection over some charges but not always reliable.

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 18 Days | 2024 - 2025

Mustang Tiji Festival Trek Highlights

The scenic flight to Pokhara delivers picturesque views, beautiful landscapes, gorges, and farming terraces along with a glimpse of snow-clad mountains at the backdrop.
Visit Pokhara (820 m), the second biggest city, also very popularly known as the second home of tourists.
Explore the beautiful Phewa Lake and the magnificence of the Himalayas mounting at the backdrop to create an atmosphere of peace and delight.
Flying in a small plane to Jomsom Airport at a height of 2720 meters is simply phenomenal.
Walking on the ancient trail along the Kali Gandaki gorge that dates back to 80 million years old.
Enter the land of ammonites with the dramatic landscape setting through the wind-eroded gullies and ancient settlements.
Grandios view of snow-white Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri (the world's 7th highest mountain), Annapurna massif, and many more.
Witness the primitive house architecture, the smiling people of Lo, and their rich culture.
Visit the 14th-century walled city of Lo Manthang and the palace that holds ancient history and legends.
Explore the 2000-year-old cave of Chhosar which gives you the history of prehistoric human settlements.
Visit ancient monasteries and caves, some of which are carved into the cliffs with fascinating architecture.
Witness the Tiji Festival with all the colorful dancing and be a part of this ancient traditional culture.
The sight of masked dancers, vibrant costumes, and the local community coming together is truly spectacular.
Visiting Ghar Gompa, the first-ever monastery built by Guru Padmasambhava around the 8th century.

Note to Trekkers:

This is to notify all the trekkers that the recent construction of the KORA LA HIGHWAY in Upper Mustang has introduced some changes to the trekking experience. This Highway connects the Mustang (Nepal) with the Tibetan Border. Many trekkers are of the opinion that the construction of this highway has diminished the real trekking charm in the Upper Mustang.

In fact it is very true that trekkers have no alternative trekking trail and while trekking along the highway they encounter ample vehicle traffic along the route. All this certainly creates disappointment among the trekkers who desperately want to visit this forbidden kingdom.

However, Upper Mustang still remains very much intact. The region's stunning landscapes, rich Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, and medieval settings continue to captivate visitors. This development also brings new opportunities to explore previously less accessible areas. It has opened up new trekking possibilities that will lead you to new hidden valleys and remote villages.

So trekkers embracing this development have still enjoyed Upper Mustang more than the previous years since driving has given them more than enough time to explore this stunning kingdom.

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek Overview

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek stands out from the popular Everest treks and Annapurna treks. It offers a unique cultural and geological experience which is exceptional from Nepal's popular trekking routes. Unlike Everest or Annapurna, Upper Mustang presents arid beauty with its colorful wind-eroded canyons, rich Tibetan culture, and vast desert plateaus.

The Upper Mustang Valley still preserves its medieval outlook, ancient monasteries, and vibrant festivals. The Everest region has the highest mountain on earth, Mount Everest, and the Annapurna region has the Annapurna massif but Upper Mustang has the treasure of authenticity.

In Upper Mustang, the true journey is not about reaching the high mountains but it is a spiritual journey into the heart of Tibetan Buddhist culture. Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is a pilgrimage offering an authenticity that is more significant than reaching the base of any mountains.

The ancient kingdom of Mustang which was opened to the outside world only in 1992 is one of the most astonishing valleys in entire Nepal. This ancient city hides behind the soaring snowy range of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. Mustang Tiji Festival Trek takes you into the mystical valleys, something anyone shouldn't miss. A journey to Mustang is a journey of remarkable contrasts with vast and barren Tibetan landscapes and very untouched culture.

Furthermore, the fascinations are century-old cliff-hanging monasteries, cultured settlements with lush rice fields, and timeless traditions. The magical Mustang, a forbidden kingdom and a source to the world's deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki is simply phenomenal.

Moreover, Mustang also gives you ample account of Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. "Guru Rimpoche" is what people across the world call Guru Padmasambhava. Besides, people across Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, and India venerate Guru Rimpoche as the 'Second Buddha'.

MUSTANG, THE ANCIENT KINGDOM - THE LOST TIBETAN KINGDOM

The Symbolic Mustang Tiji Festival:

The Mustang Tiji Festival Trek delivers you the most enchanting and highly revered festival called "Tiji festival". The Tiji Festival, “prayer for world peace” usually takes place in the month of May based on the Tibetan calendar. Additionally, It is an annual event of the native that commends and honors their legendary victory over evil.

Consequently, the people of Lo celebrate this three-day religious ceremony basically to strengthen the hope of the people of Lo. Besides, the native has faith in the legends of a deity who would incarnate on that particular day bringing an end to all the evils and suffering. However, to mark this, monks in their colorful costumes and masks dance to the soothing rhythm which is simply magical and very symbolic.

To witness this festival travelers from around the world visit Mustang in the month of May. On this particular day tourists both Local and international gather at Lo - Manthang with much curiosity and excitement. Some, especially with a limited time frame even do a JEEP SAFARI TRIP to celebrate Mustang Tiji Festival.

When is the best time to trek to Upper Mustang?

The best time to trek to Upper Mustang in Nepal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These seasons offer favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making them ideal for trekking.

Spring (March to May) is considered the best time to trek in the Upper Mustang due to the pleasant weather and the blooming of rhododendrons and other wildflowers. The temperature during this season ranges from mild to warm, and the trails are vibrant with beautiful flora.
Autumn (September to November) is also an excellent time for trekking in Upper Mustang. The weather is generally stable, with clear skies and mild temperatures. The visibility is excellent during this time, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks.

Both spring and autumn seasons attract a significant number of trekkers to Upper Mustang, so you can expect some crowds on the popular routes. However, the region is less crowded compared to other popular trekking areas like the Everest or Annapurna regions.

monsoon season (June to August): It's worth mentioning that Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, so it receives much less rainfall compared to other parts of Nepal. As a result, trekking in the Upper Mustang is very favorable during the monsoon season.
However, Winter (December to February) is not the best time to trek in the Upper Mustang due to the harsh weather conditions, extremely cold temperatures, and the possibility of heavy snowfall. The region experiences frigid temperatures and many guesthouses and tea houses may be closed during this time.