Upper Mustang Trek vs Tour: Which Is Right for You?
Introduction
Upper Mustang, part of western Nepal is the home of rich history, beautiful landscapes, and long-standing customs. Upper Mustang was formerly known as the Kingdom of Lo. As it is still a prohibited area, a special permit is needed to enter, as part of a law to protect the extremely fragile ecosystem, the rich Tibetan Buddhist culture and lifestyle, and the Loba people. The isolated area supports ancient traditions that have been passed down to the present day. Upper Mustang is full of dramatic scenery including the sharp cliffs, caves in the walls, and windswept Kali Gandaki esplanade enjoyed by many travelers. They also come to watch and experience forgotten rituals and the architecture of the old villages, like Lo Manthang, which was once the royal capital of Lo. The astonishing mixture of beautiful natural scenery and everyday living history makes Upper Mustang one of the most special destinations in the Himalayas. So, to make it easy for many travelers, Jeep tours and treks both explorations have special benefits.
Trekking is an experience that takes some time and allows travelers to interact and experience the region in more intimate ways with its land and people while experiencing some of the solitude and scale of the Himalayas. Alternatively, a Jeep tour is a faster mode of exploration in terms of comfort for travelers with less time and physical ability. Jeep tours cover large distances in short periods and provide convenient access to monasteries and villages.
This article will assist the reader in determining whether to pursue trekking or touring. Whether your interests are focused more on the challenge and intimacy of a trek, or the convenience and breadth of a tour, being familiar with what each can provide can facilitate a greater experience into the ageless and timeless landscape and culture of Upper Mustang.
What Is the Upper Mustang Trek?
Upper Mustang Trek is a unique experience that will lead you to an isolated area influenced by Tibetan culture. The trail passes through traditional villages, such as Lo Manthang, ancient monasteries, and stunning rock formations, set in a high-altitude desert landscape. The beautiful landscapes of the Himalayas, dry rough terrain, and a 1,000-year-old Buddhist culture make the trips more memorable. But the trekking is moderately difficult, as the travelers spend time at altitudes, ranging from 2,700 to 4,000 meters. However, the trek will not involve any technical walking and trekking experiences but needs to be guided because it requires permits as the trek passes through a restricted area.
US$ 1700
Route details:
Day 1: Pokhara to Jomsom to Kagbeni
We start our Upper Mustang Trek by flying from Pokhara to Jomsom (8,907 feet) and trek the next 3 hours following the Kali Gandaki River Valley to Kagbeni.
Day 2: Kagbeni to Chele
On this day we trek for approximately 6 hours through the villages of Tangbe and Chhusang and enjoy the vast barren landscape, apple gardens, and red cliffs along the way.
Day 3: Chele to Syangboche
It involves 6 hour walk from Chele to reach Syangboche which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains peaks.
Day 4: Syangboche to Ghami
The hike will take around 5 hours, along rocky terrain, and cross Nyi La Pass to get to Ghami. The vibrant prayer flags and rocks adorned the winding trail.
Day 5: Ghami to Charang
This trek from Ghami to Charang will take you about 4 hours, you will encounter ancient mani-walls as you trek across the barren Mustang landscape.
Day 6: Charang to Lo Manthang
After a five-hour trek, you will arrive at Lo Manthang from Charang, a medieval town enclosed in a wall with breathtaking architecture.
Day 7: Acclimatization and Exploration Day in Lo Manthang
Travelers spend the day exploring known monasteries like Jampa Gompa, and Thubchen Gompa, as well as the well-known Chhoser cave complex and local area.
Day 8: Lo Manthang to Dhakmar (3810 m)
A 6 to 7-hour trek with some of the most outstanding red cliffs, caves, and beautiful desert vistas travelers reach Dhakmar.
Day 9: Dhakmar to Ghiling (3800 m)
From Dhakmer it will take 5 to 6 hours to reach Ghiling passing through arid landscapes dotted with traditional villages, furthering your round cultural experience.
Day 10: Ghiling to Chhusang (3050 m)
After a 5 to 6-hour descent walk along the Kali Gandaki Valley and Tibetan-style village, travelers reach Chusang located at an elevation of 3,050.
Day 11: Chhusang to Jomsom (2720m)
Finally, after a 5 to 6-hour trek down from Chhusang travelers reach Jomsom where they relax before the flight back to Pokhara.
The trekkers will walk about 5 to 7 hours per day, which requires physical fitness and a good level of endurance. The trails consist of significant climbing and descending on dry and rough terrain with elevation gains up to 4,230 which increases the risk of Altitude sickness. So, gradual acclimatization ensures a safe and enjoyable trek. Additionally, cardiovascular fitness, leg strength, and some previous trekking experience will help with this trek.
What Is the Upper Mustang Tour (Jeep Tour)?
The Upper Mustang Jeep tour covers longer distances in a short period, ensuring you see everything you want during the trip. The tour starts from Kathmandu or Pokhara, through a drive or a flight to Jomsom, where the Upper Mustang Trek begins. Travelers can experience the combination of driving and visiting culturally significant villages including Kagbeni, Chhusang, Tsarang, and the walled city of Lo Manthang. Traveler’s journey will also be complemented by visiting ancient monasteries, cave complexes, and sacred sites like Muktinath Temple. Traveling through Upper Mustang leads travelers to stunning panoramic views of the Kali Gandaki valley and the majestic Himalayan peaks surrounding the valley.
In the recent years, the road access has been improved, while the roads are rough and connected to major settlements. Upper Mustang tour provides some level of off-road adventure. Jeep tours typically last anywhere from 7 – 11 days, giving an ample opportunity for cultural and human interaction, and to take in the barren beauty of the region at a high altitude. Highlights often include visits to Marpha’s apple orchards, the hot springs at Tatopani, ancient cave monasteries, and vibrant local festivals, such as the Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang. The upper Mustang jeep tour will be suitable for travelers with limited time and mobility to ensure a comfortable touring experience rather than dealing with strenuous activities. The Jeep tour is suitable for a wide range of travelers wanting a deeper cultural and visual understanding of the Upper Mustang and its scenery without the challenges of multi-day trekking.
US$ 1300
Key Differences: Trek vs Tour
Physical Challenge & Fitness Level
Upper Mustang trekking involves 5 to 7 hours of walking each day and requires moderate to high levels of physical fitness. Beyond physical fitness and endurance the required proper acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness. In contrast, the Jeep tour requires little physical activity, making it feasible for travelers with restricted mobility, families with young children, and limited time for exploration.
Time Required
The upper Mustang trek usually lasts for 10 to 14 days and allows enough time to interact with locals and learn about and visit remote villages. While the Jeep tour requires 4 to 7 days to complete the tour. Depending on the itinerary requirement of travelers the jeep tour can be arranged.
Cost & Budget
Jeep tours are expensive as they include hiring a rental Jeep and special permits compared to trekking. However, the cost of trekking can increase with guides, porters, and permits.
Experience with Nature & Culture
Trekking provides close interaction with nature and local culture with amazing scenery of landscape while touring provides less time for cultural interaction with stunning views along the way.
Comfort & Accommodation
Jeep tours provide comfortable rides and less stress to the body, providing an opportunity to stay at comfortable guest houses. Whereas trekking involves staying in a teahouse with basic facilities with little or no luxury.
Access to Remote Areas
The trekking experience allows access to much more remote and less accessible sites, including hidden caves or off-the-trail sites that vehicular access will not allow. While jeep tours will typically address major cultural and natural highlights.
Pros and Cons
Upper Mustang Trek
Pros
- Trekkers will get an opportunity to immerse themselves in rich Tibetan culture and explore ancient monasteries and village traditions which allows authentic engagement with local experiences.
- Travelers can witness beautiful views of desert-like environments, red cliffs, Himalayan peaks, and hidden caves.
- In addition to cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength, provide a sense of accomplishment to trekkers.
- Less crowded trails compared to popular busier trails including Everest and Annapurna trails.
Cons
- Challenging for travelers with lower physical fitness, and there is an increased risk of altitude sickness above 3,800 meters.
- During peak seasons, it is difficult to obtain reasonable accommodations.
- Unpaved and dusty road between Kagbeni and Lo Manthang can make partes of the trail uncomfortable.
- Seasonal weather is not ideal, increased the cancelation of the trek due to landslides and rainfall.
- Permits are extremely pricey as the area is restricted.
Upper Mustang Tour
Pros
- Jeep covers large distances in a short period compared to trekking and provides an off-road experience.
- Less strenuous to reach the area.
- The Jeep allows access to villages and monasteries that may be more difficult to reach by foot for some travelers.
- Involve the exploration with local guides and experienced drivers to ensure safe travels.
- Ideal for families and elders with limited mobility.
Cons
- Expensive compared to trekking due to the cost of rental vehicles, fuels, permits, and guides.
- Less physical challenges than trekking for adventure-seekers.
- Travelling through vehicles may erode the road, contribute to pollution, and disturb wildlife habitats.
- Jeep tours have fixed itineraries and no freedom for travelers for their agendas.
- There is no possibility of gradual acclimatization in vehicle rides, which increases the risk of altitude sickness.
Who Should Choose the Trek?
Upper Mustang trek is a good option for those seeking an adventurous journey. Trekkers will be rewarded with an amazing experience with a walk of 5 to 7 hours for 14 days. The trails passed through arid landscapes, higher elevated steep, and ancient trading routes. Travelers may not require prior trekking experience but good determination, stamina, and open-mindedness are essential to enjoy the journey. Trekking will be beneficial to those who want to engage fully in the beautiful Himalayan scenery, from towering cliffs and deep canyons to sweeping views of white peaks, and who enjoy traveling remote high-altitude routes.
Tibetan Buddhist heritage, age-old monasteries, and Meeting the local people in traditional villages like Lo Manthang delighted the cultural adventure of Upper Mustang. The remoteness has kept their unique practices, architecture, and ways of life intact, providing a precious insight into a living Buddhist kingdom. In the evenings, trekkers sleep in basic but comfortable tea houses and experience local hospitality and food. For trekkers searching for peace, Upper Mustang is a “magical, lifetime expedition” that will take the trekker back in time. However, as a warning to those who suffer from serious health problems, please consult your physician before this trek due to the altitude and physical demands. Overall, the Upper Mustang trek is for culturally inclined, adventure enthusiasts who want to experience a truly forbidden kingdom.
Who Should Choose the Tour?
The upper Mustang Jeep tour is a great option for families, seniors, and travelers who have limited time but still want to experience this amazing remote Himalayan area. Unlike trekking, the Jeep tour does not require trekking daily on long hikes, which means that this is appropriate for all ages, senior travelers, and those with people with mobility problems. Travelers can experience the rugged terrain, remote villages, and cultural highlights of Upper Mustang in a short period without facing difficulties in accommodations. The Jeep tour will be great for a family adventure or group adventure with different needs.
Jeep tour is also good for elderly people or travelers with health issues, as it provides a safe ride to high altitude places like Lo Manthang without trekking. The tour allows local festival attendance, exploration of ancient cave complexes, and Tibetan-influenced culture with the comfort of private transport and quality accommodation. Whether you are completing a family holiday or a relaxed cultural adventure that does not demand high fitness levels, the Upper Mustang Jeep tour is a rewarding and memorable Himalayan experience at your pace and with your many interests.
Important Things to Consider
Upper Mustang is a restricted area and requires a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). Travelers are required to pay USD 500. Registered trekking agency of Nepal and licensed travel guide will secure RAP for travelers. Travelers will pay 500 USD to explore for 10 days and will pay 50 USD each day for additional stay to the place. In addition to the RAP, trekkers must also have an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card, which was established for environmental protection and controlled tourism.
Also, weather and timing are another important factors for a successful trek. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the perfect seasons to visit the Upper Mustang. These seasons have clear skies, making it the best time to travel to Upper Mustang. Whereas, the summer months will invite monsoon rains which can create slippery trails and less enjoyable hiking experiences. Winters are cold at higher elevations leading to restricted access.
Lastly, one important consideration of the trek is to travel guided or independently. In the Upper Mustang, independent trekking is not permitted. A registered trekking agency organized a group tour with a licensed guide. This organizational structure is to ensure travel compliance with local rules and regulations, provide safety measures, and respect the cultural context of the region. Additionally, the guide can share their knowledge of the region’s history, culture, and geography, enriching your overall experience, and they are there to assist in managing acclimatization and emergencies.
Conclusion
Upper Mustang has two popular ways to discover its stunning landscape and rich culture: trekking and Jeep touring. Trekking is an immersive way to experience the Tibetan culture, exploring remote villages and beautiful scenery for 10 to 14 days. Trekking which requires physical fitness and time will be rewarded by cultural interactions, monasteries, and an incredible sense of accomplishment. While the Jeep tour is a much less immersive way to travel through less challenging beautiful landscapes without requiring an extreme level of Physical fitness. Also, jeep touring involves exploration of the places for travelers with limited time, generally seeing the main sights in 4 days to a week. Travelers looking for comfort without walking will fit easily into the Jeep tour, observing the unique environment and history of the Upper Mustang.
Travelers choose a trek or tour depending on individual desires, level of physical fitness, and available time. Trekking is the best option for physically fit and resilient travelers looking for adventure. Upper Mustang by jeep will be beneficial for travelers emphasizing comfort, speed, and having family members. Whatever your emphasis is, traveler priorities will help to decide how to best experience the expectation that they want.
Either way, Upper Mustang will leave you amazed. Whether you hiking on its rugged trails or by Jeep and its stunning Himalayan views, the more than 800-year-old walled city of Lo Manthang, and its living Buddhist culture will take you on an amazing journey. This “Forbidden Kingdom” will amaze travelers with its beauty time and time again, which means every traveler will leave with memories and wonder of one of Nepal’s special places.
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