How Difficult is the Upper Mustang Trek

16th Jan, 2019

Upper Mustang is popular trekking destination in Nepal for summer season. Many people are making plan for this Upper Mustang Trek and similarly curious about this adventures trek and they very often to think question,

How difficult is the Upper Mustang Trek?

This Upper Mustang Trek has a not difficulty grade, it is moderate level, if you follow regular classic trekking route of the Upper Mustang. This is not a comfortable and easy trek because it is moderate level trek. Depending on many factors trek grade are clear. If you follow different route exit from Lo Manthang, it might be difficult grade level. These different exit trekking route are mainly Lo Manthang to Upper Dolpo Trek, Nar Phu Valley Trek and Damodar Kunda lake.
There are no standards set for significant the difficulty grade for a trek so you can expect moderate level and you can also select whether of the Mustang Valley. May to September is the best time to visit Upper mustang. The difficulty level is subjective to the abilities of the individual, so you have to join with resisted trekking company for arrange everything.

Here are important things For the Upper Mustang Trek difficulties 

1. Walking

This Upper Mustang trek is moderate level so walking distance is per day on averagely four to seven hours. Total trip duration is around eleven days from Jomsom to Jomsom and some rest days are included in this itinerary as well as exploration day is set in Lo Manthang. These classic14 days Upper Mustang trek suitable for all types of trekkers include family, group and couple too. If someone cannot walk during dally camp, there are jeep service also available if pay the extra cost.

2. Altitude

Highest point of this Upper Mustang Trek is 4200m. Max elevation for the moderate level trek is set below 5000 m from sea level. You won’t be walk even above 4500m height during this Upper Mustang Trek. Maximum height for Overnight stays will be around 3800m someday and Lo Manthang.

3. Terrain

This Upper mustang Trek is moderate grade trek so mostly follows the well marked trekking trail. There is motor road available but we will take to you regular trekking route. Also daily ascent and descent should be expected on that area. You will across many different villages, mani walls, barli and potato fields and Buddhist stupas with prayer flags. You will also across animals pasture lands and herds of animals with their herders. If you are looking extra challenge route there, you can ask to your guide and guide take to you through off the beaten trail. We ensure provide professional guide for safe and memorable this Upper Mustang Trek.

4. Remoteness

This upper mustang trek is increasing popularity. It was a remote trekking route but remoteness is not too much facilities. There are tea-house accommodation and wifi, mobile network communication facilities. Well, each day we are spending a night in a local village

.There are good enough tea-houses and lodges. Most of the tea house provides clean room and hygienic local food as well as hot bucket showers. You can also find the good place for eat and drink during lunch period along the way in every different village. You don’t sophisticate like in the cities, only you can do either local shops or same tea-house. We hope this grade trek gives you a suggestion of what to expect during Upper Mustang Trek. If you have confusion while choosing the trek, discuss with us. We are flexible create itinerary regarding to you and help to you every step for this upper Mustang trek. For this moderate trek can be option for tenet camp instead of Tea-house trekking.

5. Restricted Area: 

Upper Mustang was opened to foreigners only in 1992, and access is still restricted. Trekkers are required to obtain a special permit to enter the region, and the number of permits issued is limited, contributing to the feeling of remoteness and exclusivity. 
The special permits required for the Upper Mustang trek is relatively expensive compared to other trekking regions in Nepal. This is a consideration for budget-conscious trekkers.
This permit is issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu, Nepal.  It's necessary to apply for this permit through a registered trekking agency, and individual trekkers are not allowed.

Preparations tips for Upper Mustang Trek

Preparing for the Upper Mustang trek requires careful planning and consideration of various factors, including the challenging terrain, high altitude, and remote location. Here are some preparation tips to help you have a successful trek:

Physical Fitness: The trek involves long days of walking in varied terrain, including steep ascents and descents. Build your cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and stamina through regular aerobic exercises, such as hiking, swimming, jogging, and cycling.

Altitude Acclimatization: Acclimatization is crucial when trekking at high altitudes. Spend a few extra days in Kathmandu or a nearby town to adjust before starting the trek. Plan your itinerary with gradual altitude gains to allow your body to acclimatize properly.

Medical Check-up: Before start the trek, consult with a healthcare professional to ensure you are in good health and discuss any pre-existing medical conditions. Get necessary vaccinations and carry a basic first aid kit.

Pack Appropriately: Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing suitable for both warm and cold weather. Dress in layers to adapt to temperature changes. Ensure you have a good quality, well-fitted pair of trekking boots with ankle support. Don't forget a sturdy backpack.

Training Hikes: If possible, include training hikes in your preparation, especially if you live in an area with elevation differences. This will help condition your body to walking on uneven terrain and build strength.

Hydration and Nutrition: Stay well-hydrated throughout the trek. Carry a reusable water bottle and purification tablets or a water filter. Pack energy-rich snacks and maintain a balanced diet to sustain your energy levels.

Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1350 m) airport and transport to hotel by Private Vehicle. Overnight at Hotel
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu valley and evening meeting about trekking. Overnight at Hotel
Day 03: Drive to Pokhara (850 m) 180 km 6 to 7 hours. Overnight at Hotel
Day 04: Fly to Jomsom (2720 m) 25 minutes and trek to Kagbeni (2810 m) 3 hrs walk. Overnight at Guest House
Day 04: Trek to Chele (3050 m) 6/7 hrs walk. Overnight at Guest House
Day 05: Trek to Ghiling (3570 m) 6/7 hrs walk. Overnight at Guest-House
Day 06: Trek to Tsarang (3560 m) 6/7 hrs walk. Overnight at Guest-House
Day 07: Trek to Lo-Manthang (3809 m) 4/5 hrs walk. Overnight at Guest-House
Day 08: Rest day Lo_Manthang (hike to Choser cave) 4/5 hrs walk. Overnight at Guest-House
Day 09: Trek to Yara / Ghara village (3650 m) 6/7 hrs walk. Overnight at Guest-House
Day 10: Trek to Tengge (3240 m) 6/7 hrs walk. Overnight at Guest-House
Day 11: Trek to Chuksang (2980 m) 7/8 hrs walk. Overnight at Guest-House
Day 12: Trek over Gyu-La pass (4077 m) trek to Mukthinath (3760 m) 8 hrs walk. Overnight at Guest-house
Day 13: Trek to Jomsom (2720 m) 6 hrs walk. Overnight at Guest-House
Day 14: Fly back to Pokhara (850 m) 20 minutes flight. Overnight at Hotel
Day 15: Fly or Drive back to Kathmandu (1350 m) 30 minutes or 7 hrs. Overnight at Hotel
Day 16: Final Departure to your home