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MUSTANG TREK
Mustang
evokes awe and fascination among travelers. This mysterious
kingdom was a forbidden land until recent times. With traditions
and terrain that is so unlike Nepal, it continues to lure
tourists despite its restricted status and stiff entry fees. A
trek to Mustang involves trekking at high-altitudes through
exposed terrain but you get to see the lost Himalayan Kingdom as
Michel Piessel called it. Mustang still retains an officially
recognized king named Jigmi
Paldor Bista.
The walled city of Lo Manthang captures your imagination
conjuring up images of lost civilizations. Some of Nepal’s
largest Tibetan Buddhist gompas are found here. Mustang
was opened to tourists only in 1992 and until today remains a
restricted area.
Upper
Mustang lies between 8,100ft to 22,000 ft. Being part of the
Tibetan plateau, the region lies in stark contrast to the
greenery seen around most of the trek routes. This rain shadow
area is arid and desolate but extremely interesting nonetheless.
The red, eroded, cliffs are spectacular and dotted with many
inaccessible caves across the Kali Gandaki river that were once
used by monks for meditation. The mysterious walled city of Lo
Manthang is unique-- the main attraction of Mustang and this is
where the king resides. The inhabitants are more Tibetan than
Nepali in every aspect and the bare landscape is a part of the
Tibetan plateau. Mustang is a great photo opportunity.
The
journey begins with a drive or flight down to Pokhara where many
a trek originates. A day can be spent in this lake town relaxing
and enjoying the enchanting views. Next morning fly to Jomsom
(2713m) where the trek really begins.
This is also the headquarters of the Mustang district.
The trail goes along the Kali Gandaki valley. It climbs steeply
up a rocky gully to Chele at 3030m. Next day the route goes
through a steep canyon reaching a pass at 3830m and then Giling.
Next stop Is Tharang with two passes to cross before
reaching there. On
the 3rd day you are on your way to Lo Manthang. The
trail climbs up most of the way to reach the plateau of Lo
Manthang (3730m). There is only one entrance to the city, which
lies at the north- eastern corner. Two days are spent in Lo
Manthang as this is the highlight of the tour. From here the
route leads to Ghami through ridges and valleys. The sudden
descent takes you to the Giling Valley after which, you join the
trail that leads to Samar and then to Kagabeni. From Kagbeni
descend to Jomsom and return to Pokhara.
The cost and trekking details
are available on your request.
Please Click here or just drop us
an email to : suryaktm@mos.com.np
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