Most of us enjoy hiking or trekking, but we must admit that these activities are relatively straightforward, don’t you agree? This is because the trails we follow are not steep or highly rugged. Even though Upper Mustang Trek difficulty is challenging in its own way, it’s certainly not as bad as some other treks, which require technical mountaineering skills and proper equipment for the trip.

Trips Facts

Region: Mustang region
Starting point: Jomsom
End Point: Pokhara
Trek: Upper Mustang Trek
Restriction: Restricted zone
Trip Duration: 10 days
Difficulty level: Moderate
Highest Altitude: Lo Manthang at 3820m
Accommodation: Tea House
Best season to visit: Autumn and Spring

Highlights of Upper Mustang Trek

  • Catch a spectacular view of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Nilgiri, etc.
  • Witness the ancient Tibetan culture and lifestyle of the region.
  • Explore the oldest monastery in the world, Lo Gear Monastery.
  • Visit the Kali Gandaki Gorge: the deepest gorge/canyon in the world.
  • Explore the kingdom and palace of King Lo or King of Mustang.
  • Visit the beautiful villages of Mustang such as Jomsom, Kagbeni, Tamara on, Gelling, Ghemi, and Tsarang.

Upper Mustang Trek Difficulty

Weather and Temperature:

The weather condition of the Upper Mustang region is normal during the three seasons, i.e., spring, summer, and autumn in Nepal. However, the winter season brings a whole inviability of difficulty. The temperature ranges from 0-5 degrees celsius in the afternoon and at night time -20 to 25 degrees.

Most trekkers and travelers in these regions descend during the cold climatic season. In addition, the snowfall in this region also makes it a more challenging trail to walk. The trek to this region is not even recommended for Novice trekkers.

Insufficient Training:

The trekking trails in the Upper Mustang region are not harsh. You will be trekking for almost all 6 to 7 hours per day on your 10 days trek to the Upper Mustang valley. Taking medicine for the Cure of altitude sickness can be appropriate. This trek does not require any rest or acclimatization days.

At the same time, it will be difficult for you to trek in this region. Before joining this trek, a strong mindset and physical fitness are necessary. The daily exercise before the trek will help you increase leg muscles, endurance, and stamina are really especially important.

Altitude Sickness and Health:

The trekking to the Upper Mustang trek doesn’t even elevate overall more than 4000m above sea level. While on the walk, you must also be mindful of your health. In this region, it is advised to take altitude sickness medication. It is also necessary to take a liquid to tackle the problem that arises during the trek.

You are always advised to consult your doctor on your health status before traveling on a journey like this. There may be a situation where you may not complete the trek. So it is crucial to extend the trekking duration.

Porter and Guides:

Having a porter and guide during trekking to this region is essential. Traveling to this destination is also dangerous due to the condition of unfamiliar terrain. The region is a restricted area. Additionally, hiring a porter and a guide is required before beginning the trek to this location due to restrictions.

Hiring experienced, well-trained, fully insured, and handy guides and porters is better than hiring freelance porters and guides. They will try to make your journey successful and clear every problem that may arise during the trek. The total cost of the guides for this program is between $25 to $30.

Food and Accommodation:

As you move to a higher level, the overall costs of the accommodation for the various item also increases. The food, drinks, and lodging costs are more expensive than expected. You need to have healthy food and proper rest during trekking in such regions. It is also important to allocate the economy or a budget required during the trek for food and other facilities.

As with traveling in many regions of the world, Upper Mustang Trek depends on several factors. Preparation is key to your journey and how much fun you will have trekking through Mustang.