Overview
The Mustang trek Nepal is a trip into one of the most distinctive and culturally diverse places of the Himalayas. Mustang, also referred to as “The Last Forbidden Kingdom”, did not reach out to the outside world, and it was only in 1990s that the isolated region of Nepal received access to the external world, yet the traditions there date back to centuries ago. The region is located in the Himalayan rain shadow, which is located beyond the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, and hence it is available even during the rainy season. Its sceneries of dry valleys, blown plateaus and colorful cliffs contrast with the green vegetation of other trekking areas.
One of the best portions on the Mustang trek Nepal is that travelers get a chance to get a glimpse of the preserved Tibetan culture. A monastery, prayer wheels and centuries old mud-brick architecture can be found in villages such as Kagbeni, Tsarang and the walled city of Lo Manthang. The locals belong to ancient Buddhism traditions, and colorful holidays like Tiji give life and color to the remote villages. Hiking across Mustang is like going back to the past, and the traveler is exposed to the genuine association with the lifestyle that has not been spared by civilization to a very large degree.
The sceneries one finds in the Mustang trek Nepal cannot be found in any other place in Nepal. Soaring cliffs that were formed due to erosion, concealed caves, and the striking Kali Gandaki Gorge along with all form scenery that is both spacious and enigmatic. Sharp peaks such as Nilgiri and Annapurna appear against the background of the desert like landscape providing trekkers with varied landscapes throughout the path. Such dramatic scenery and mountain desert landscapes render the Mustang region of the Himalayas one of the most aesthetically distinguishable trekking regions in the Himalayas region.
The Mustang trek Nepal is rated a moderate one in terms of difficulty. Although, it is not as high as Everest Base Camp, the hikers still walk up to altitudes of over 3,500 meters and walk over passes of up to 4,200 meters. The dry weather and the high winds in the afternoon are also an added challenge but the tracks are also not that strenuous to most trekkers who are relatively fit. The tea house accommodation is present along the route, but the facilities get progressively more rudimentary towards the deeper in Mustang in the upper region. No one is allowed in the area without special permits as Upper Mustang is still a restricted area and it will guarantee to control the tourism and preserve the culture.
The Mustang trek Nepal is an experience that one cannot forget giving the chance to experience adventure as well as culture. Its combination of ancient history, desert and Himalayan majesty makes it distinct in the other trekking routes. It is not as busy as the Everest or Annapurna area and offers a closer experience of a trip into Nepal and its high mountains, as well as traditional people. The feeling of discovery in Mustang is unique and enduring and, be it the urge to observe the culture of Tibetan Buddhism, enjoy the stunning scenery, or just go on a fulfilling hike, this experience is hard to come by.
For the ones who want to explore the upper part of Mustang, we have our Upper Mustang Trek package available for your kind perusal.
Custom treks throughout Nepal are the focus of Access The Asia Treks. We lead hikes to Upper Mustang and other off-limits areas of Nepal in both private and public settings. You have the option to join our set groups at a fair price and take advantage of all-inclusive trek packages.
Trip Highlights
- Enjoy a trans-Himalayan flight to/from Jomsom, the windy-city
- View of Annapurna I (8091m), Nilgiri (7061m), and Dhaulagiri (8167m)
- Enjoy trekking in one of the restricted areas of northern Nepal
- Visit several ancient monasteries dating back to the 7th century and also the famous man-made sky caves of Mustang
- A vibrant three-day cultural celebration with ritual dances and Buddhist ceremonies.
- Dramatic cliffs, colorful rock formations, and dry valleys unlike other treks in Nepal.
- Discover centuries-old cave dwellings, murals, and Buddhist relics.
- Trek through one of the deepest gorges in the world with striking geological contrasts.
- Experience preserved traditions, prayer flags, mani walls, and spiritual rituals.
Equipments
Mustang Region is considered to be one of a thrilling and spectacular trekking region, well renowned all over the globe. This region’s trek starts from the easy level to elite level where you have to be equipped with all the necessary and appropriate gears and equipment to ensure your safety, comfort, and pleasure during your trek. When trekking in the Mustang region, you should bring the following items, among others:
- Trekking boots: As you reach to various landscapes including the rocky difficult trials in this region. Therefore, the sturdy trekking boots is required with an ankle support to make your trek safer and risk free.
- Hand Gloves: Another important trekking equipment is hand gloves. Basically, hand gloves is used to prevent your hands from coldness and cuts or any injury you may get travelling.
- Hat: It is the equipment that is used to prevent yourself from coldness. Basically, hats that covers your ears are highly preferable in order to keep you warm. You can also bring a rounded hats that provides shades on your face to block the sunlight.
- Backpack: A roomy backpack is necessary for you to carry the electronics equipment like mobile and camera with water bottle and other necessary personal equipment.
- Clothing: The weather is unpredictable. Thus, you have to be prepared for the sudden change in the weather. Thus, you have to take thermal undergarments, layered clothes and trekking trousers to make yourself cozy and warm. Fleece and down jacket with a scarf, hat and mittens are also very useful during this trek.
- Trekking poles: While walking in the rocky and steep grounds, you have to be careful whereas trekking poles help your ankle and knees to prevent you from the possible mishaps.
- Sunglasses: UV protected and a quality Sunglasses is required to prevent yourself from the glare of the snow and intense mountain sunshine.
- Water container and purification tablets: The water during the trek is most essential. Healthy and pure water makes your trek full of energy whereas polluted water might hamper your health. Thus, water container and purification tablets are really necessary.
- First aid box: The first aid equipment like bandages, antiseptic cream, pain relievers, and altitude sickness medication is crucial. The trekking leader of the trek also carries first aid medical kit for your safety.
Access the Asia Treks offers its customers a thorough packing list, equipment rental choices, and guidance on the best supplies for their trekking requirements. In order to complete their trek to the Mustang region securely and comfortably, we want to make sure that our clients have all the required supplies.
CANCELLATION POLICY AND PAYMENTS
- As different permits, flight tickets and other government official documents are necessary so payment is highly appreciable if done 30 days prior of the trekking start date.
- Payments are supposed to be done 15 days prior to the trekking start date.
- If cancellation is made 10 days before the trek start date, 50% of the total trek cost will be charged as the cancellation fees.
- In case of restrictions imposed by the government, bad weather or the emergency situation, the company will not to be liable to any extra cost and will find the most feasible way to proceed the trek.
ADVISORY
- Non-bio degradable materials are not allowed to dispose in the trekking route randomly.
- Proper follow of the guidance provided by the leader/guide of the trek.
- Alcoholic beverages and other intoxicating substances are highly discouraged.
- There might be the chances of bad weather so be prepared for the inconvenience caused by the unpredictable weather.
- Try to be mentally and physically prepared before this trek with few short hikes before this trek is highly recommended.
IMPORTANT THINGS REQUIRED
- Passport
- Few passport size photos for TIMS and other official documents
- Personal trekking equipment
- Snow goggles
- Personal handbag and luggage
- Snacks and sweets like chocolate bar (if required)
- Some personal items and sunscreen/sun cream
- Water bottle and hat
PRELIMINARY AND KEY NOTES
- Greeting ‘Namaste’ (your palms held together) is the most respectful and attractive way to greet somebody and is practiced profoundly.
- Accessibility of internet and phone calls can be made efficient using the mobile SIM Card provided by the company itself or you can buy easily in the local market. All you need is one passport sized photo and a photocopy of your physical passport in either case.
- There are lots of major cultural heritage sites in Kathmandu along with the ancient monasteries and sculptures. Photos are not taken unless you have asked for the permission.
- The nightlife in Kathmandu is mostly safe and concentrated in Thamel area, one of the busiest destinations for foreigners to hang out with varied options of bars, restaurants and other places to choose from. Somehow, other areas including small towns are closed before 10pm.
- Nepalese people are friendly, truly kind and incredibly welcoming as there is a phrase in Nepali culture ‘Guests equal Gods’. Out of the blue moon, there are several chances of being cheated. Saying this, you are somehow prone to possible travel scams. Keep yourself and your belongings safe, if you are travelling solo. It is highly recommended to have one experienced guide, taking safety into consideration.
ADVISORY
- Non-bio degradable materials are not allowed to dispose in the trekking route randomly.
- Proper follow of the guidance provided by the leader/guide of the trek.
- Alcoholic beverages and other intoxicating substances are highly discouraged.
- There might be the chances of bad weather so be prepared for the inconvenience caused by the unpredictable weather.
- Try to be mentally and physically prepared before this trek with few short hikes before this trek is highly recommended.
IMPORTANT THINGS REQUIRED
- Passport
- Few passport size photos for TIMS and other official documents
- Personal trekking equipment
- Snow goggles
- Personal handbag and luggage
- Snacks and sweets like chocolate bar (if required)
- Warm clothes, down jacket and multilayered clothes
- Trekking shoes
- Some personal items and sunscreen/sun cream
- Water bottle and hat
PRELIMINARY AND KEY NOTES
- Greeting ‘Namaste’ (your palms held together) is the most respectful and attractive way to greet somebody and is practiced profoundly.
- Accessibility of internet and phone calls can be made efficient using the mobile SIM Card provided by the company itself or you can buy easily in the local market. All you need is one passport sized photo and a photocopy of your physical passport in either case.
- There are lots of major cultural heritage sites in Kathmandu along with the ancient monasteries and sculptures. Photos are not taken unless you have asked for the permission.
- The nightlife in Kathmandu is mostly safe and concentrated in Thamel area, one of the busiest destinations for foreigners to hang out with varied options of bars, restaurants and other places to choose from. Somehow, other areas including small towns are closed before 10pm.
- Nepalese people are friendly, truly kind and incredibly welcoming as there is a phrase in Nepali culture ‘Guests equal Gods’. Out of the blue moon, there are several chances of being cheated. Saying this, you are somehow prone to possible travel scams. Keep yourself and your belongings safe, if you are travelling solo. It is highly recommended to have one experienced guide, taking safety into consideration.
PAYMENT INFORMATION
To confirm you’re booking with Access the Asia Treks, payment for the selected trek can be made via bank transfer. Please ensure that all applicable bank charges, including transfer fees or intermediary bank fees, are covered by you at the time of payment. This will help us receive the full amount without any deduction.
Once the payment is sent, kindly provide us with the transaction details or remittance slip for verification.
If you experience any issues during the payment process or require assistance of any kind, please feel free to contact us immediately. We are always available to support you and ensure a smooth and reliable booking experience.
GEAR RENTAL AND TREK INFORMATION
For your convenience, we provide the option to hire trekking gear in Nepal. This includes essential items such as:
- Trekking poles
- Sleeping bags
- Down jackets / fleece jackets
- Crampons and other technical gear (for high-altitude treks)
We recommend renting gear locally only if you do not already own quality trekking equipment, as renting ensures reliable and well-maintained gear suited for Nepal’s conditions.
FULL TREK PREPAREDNESS
To ensure a safe and enjoyable trek, please make sure you are fully prepared before departure:
- Proper Clothing: Layered clothing, thermal wear, waterproof jackets, trekking shoes, gloves, and hats.
- Health and Safety: Carry a basic first aid kit, personal medications, and consider altitude sickness medication if trekking above 3,000 meters.
- Fitness: Moderate to high physical fitness is recommended depending on the trek’s difficulty level.
- Essential Gear: Backpack, water bottles, headlamp, sunglasses, sunscreen, and personal hygiene items.
- Documentation: Passport, necessary permits (Provided by Access the Asia Treks. Inclusive in package), travel insurance, and emergency contact information.
Being fully equipped and prepared ensures a comfortable, safe, and memorable trekking experience in Nepal.
TREKKING PACKAGES – TAILORED FOR YOU
We offer three types of trekking packages to suit your preferences and budget:
- Economy Package – Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a basic yet comfortable trekking experience.
- Standard Package – A balanced option offering enhanced comfort, quality accommodation, and well-planned itineraries.
- Luxury Package – Designed for those seeking premium comfort, exclusive services, and top-notch amenities throughout the trek.
All our packages are flexible and customizable, allowing you to tailor your trek according to your personal preferences, schedule, and interests.
Visa Requirements
Access the Asia Treks provides you the full information prior to the trek. Our representatives are always standby to support you in every situation from the beginning to the final departure. We try our best to make you feel like home with supportive staffs and friendly environment.
You can get VISA on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport; or online in advance through Nepal’s Department of Immigration website (for a pre-arrival application).
You will need:
- A passport valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date
- A passport-sized photo (if applying on arrival)
- Visa fees in cash (USD or major currencies)
Welcome and escorting to hotel
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you are warmly welcomed by a representative from Access the Asia Treks highlighting the Nepali tradition. You are then escorted to the hotel, where you can take some time to rest and settle in after your journey to Nepal.
Depending on your flight’s arrival time, the trip briefing will be conducted either the same day or the following day.
Guide & Safety Information
You are provided with an experienced leader who can lead you to your destination with proper supervision and care. You are taken care of your comfortable stay and day to day supervision of your balanced diet, water intake, gradual ascend and proper sleep.
As Altitude Sickness is most probable in this region, thus, proper acclimatization and day to day strategy is necessary which is taken into proper consideration from our staffs.
During emergency situation, evacuation procedure is also made standby and your travel insurance must be provided before the trek which must cover the higher altitude evacuation with medical expenses.
Transportation Facilities
Access the Asia Treks provides reliable and comfortable transportation facilities suitable to the category of your trekking package. Transportation is arranged on either a private or sharing basis, depending on the selected itinerary and service chosen.
- Private Transportation
- Sharing Transportation
Whether traveling on a private or sharing basis, Access the Asia Treks ensures smooth transfers between airports (Private only), cities (Private only), and trekking trailheads (Private or Sharing) according to your package category.
Note: For transportation facilities, you can consult with our staffs for more information.
Eco-Friendly & Responsible Trekking
At Access the Asia Treks, we are committed and dedicated to promoting eco-friendly and responsible trekking practices that preserve the natural environment and support local communities.
Our staffs are well trained and provided with proper training for the responsible trekking. Our treks are designed to make lesser environmental impact while supporting cultural respect and sustainability. Cultural immersion, healthy participation in community activities and respecting their cultural and natural values are our priorities.
We encourage the “Leave No Trace” principle by reducing waste, avoiding single-use plastics, and ensuring proper disposal of all non-biodegradable materials. We look forward to creating the trekking campaigns supporting the nature and preserving its values for future. We work closely with local guides, porters, and communities to support the local economy and preserve traditional lifestyles.
Our trekking routes prioritize conservation areas, and we strictly follow government and park regulations to protect wildlife, forests, and fragile mountain ecosystems. We are always committed in respecting the laws to promote the Government and local people initiation to save the nature.
By choosing eco-friendly trekking with us, you can contribute to environmental preservation while enjoying an authentic and responsible Himalayan adventure.
Help & Support Services
Access the Asia Treks provides necessary information and comprehensive help regarding your stay in Nepal. Our professional dedicated team is committed to assisting you from your planning to the competion of the trek.
Pre-Trip Support: Before your trek begins, our staff offers personalized details to assist you choose the most suitable trekking package based on your interests, fitness level, and travel time frame.
Transportation & Accommodation: We manage and assist you with arranging transportation to and from trekking starting points, whether on a private or sharing basis, according to your package category. As per your interest and service needed, our team also provides sufficient information regarding accommodation options.
On-Trek Guidance & Safety: After your arrival, we will provide you the trek briefing details for your assurance regarding your trek information, gears and overall details. During the trek, our experienced leader will support you who is government-licensed and well-trained porters. Our leaders provide daily briefings on trekking distances, altitude changes, weather conditions, and safety measures which play the vital role for you to cope up with the altitude minimizing the risk of altitude sickness. Monitoring regarding your daily food intake, water intake, gradual ascend, physical and mental condition along with proper sleep, and emergency response coordination are integral parts of our service.
Emergency & Communication Support: In case of emergencies, we provide 24/7 support and coordination for medical assistance or evacuation services when required. We assist you to manage the travel insurance accordingly.
Post-Trek Assistance: After completion of the trek, we assist you with various options as per your feasibility. We arrange your return transportation, travel extensions, sightseeing arrangements, and onward travel plans. We also welcome feedback to continuously improve our services.
For further details or specific inquiries regarding your trekking package, our knowledgeable staff is always available to assist you.
Trek Briefing Details Provided by Access the Asia Treks
During the official trek briefing, our guide or trek leader will cover all essential details to ensure you are fully prepared and informed. The briefing typically includes:
Trek Itinerary Overvieww
Day-to-day details of the trek and it makes you your vision clear before the trek.
Average trek duration, daily walking hours and the altitude profile to make you understand about the various situations during the trek.
Significant spots and highlights of the trek for you to encounter during the trek.
Safety & Altitude Guidelines
Proper information about the altitude sickness, symptoms and preventive measures. You are introduced with your trek guide so that you feel comfortable to share your opinions regarding it.
Acclimatization days and rest days during the trek for your adaptation with the altitude and the surrounding. This minimizes the risk of Altitude sickness.
You need the travel insurance which covers your emergency evacuation and medical expenses from the higher altitude.
Necessity of oxygen cylinder or portable altitude chambers whenever necessary during the trek or climbing or expedition.
Accommodation & Meals
The information related to mountain accommodation regarding your stay, food, amenities, room facilities, hot water and local tradition.
Meal plans, safe food practices, and dietary options
Packing & Gear Check
We will re-check all your personal gear and clothing whether they match the requirement for the trek or not. If not, we will help you to buy or hire as per the situation.
Recommendations for any missing or optional items that may be rented or purchased in Kathmandu
Weather Conditions & Trail Expectations
Typical weather patterns during your trekking season
Estimated temperatures at different elevations
Terrain details and trekking difficulty levels
Team Introduction
Introduction to the trek leader, assistant guides, and porters
Roles and responsibilities of each team member
Porter weight limits and packing guidelines
Communication & Connectivity
Availability of Wi-Fi, charging facilities, and mobile network
Recommended SIM cards (if needed)
Depending upon the necessity of the satellite phones and emergency contact, we will provide you all the information regarding it.
Insurance & Documentation Check
Verification of travel and rescue insurance
Passport copies, permits, and TIMS/park entry requirements
Final Question & Answer Session
Time for you to clarify doubts
Last-minute advice before departure
Confirmation of departure time for the following day
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