Forbidden Lands of Mustang

18 days, Grade B+

In the far north of the Annapurna Range is a remote, fascinating and magnificent Shangri-La. Mustang is one of Nepal’s most mysterious and least known kingdoms. The landscape of Mustang is a barren moonscape of eroded sandstone pillars and discontinuous moraine terraces, which together present a colorful mosaic made up principally of earthen reds, yellows and brown. It is relatively easy trekking along the permitted route to Lo Manthang, which lies in the very heart of Mustang. The trek to Mustang is through a barren landscape.

This Mustang trek lying in the rain shadow of the Himalayas is perhaps one of the few remaining enclaves of pristine Tibetan culture. Forbidden and isolated from the rest of the world, it was able to evolve its own distinctive culture and tradition, which is rich and unique. Lo-Mantang, the capital, is a walled city ruled by the religious king. Untouched by modern civilisation, life in Mustang goes on as it has for centuries, at an unhurried pace. As everywhere in the Himalayas, this area provides spectacular mountain scenery, highlighted by Dhaulagiri at 8167 meters (26,795ft) and Annapurna I at 8091 meters (26,545ft). You will be surrounded by more than 35 mountains over 6000 meters (19,680ft) high. The elevation of the the trails rises to 3780 meters (12,398ft) above sea level.

The King is still in place, although he now has few statutary powers over this ancient kingdom. However, life and festivities continue with him as head of the community, and his blessing is given each year at the Tiji Festival in May. Please note the special festival departure has an extra day at Lo Manthang and so makes the trip 19 days ex Kathmandu.

Click here to download Forbidden Lands of Mustang Trip Notes

The Vital Statistics

• 18 days ex Kathmandu
• 1 day sightseeing in Kathmandu
• 5 nights city B&B hotel accommodation
• 12 nights fully catered tented camp trek
• Maximum altitude: 4230m
• Daily walking: 4-6 hours
• Mountain flight Pokhara – Jomsom
• Internal flight Pokhara – Kathmandu

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