Mustang Trek in Early July

In early July this year I took many of our Nepali team on a thank-you trip to the forbidden Kingdom of LO (Mustang)

The Kingdom of Lo in the Mustang Region of Nepal is one of the most remote kingdoms on earth. One of the few remaining authentic Tibetan cultures still left in the world, the northern part of this astounding kingdom is open to a small number of permit holders each year. Sheltered by such massive Himalayan peaks as Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, Mustang is a rugged moonscape of walled monasteries, windy plains and towns that time forgot.

Below are a couple of pictures and my personal tips
Duration we did in 6 days ideally 10 allow extra days in Tsarang and Lo Manthang
Firstly if there is 2+ take a private 4WD from Pokhara the full day trip up the kali Gandaki valley is a adventure itself (do not attempt July-Nov due to landslides) also flights to/from Jomsom are often not available days at a time June – Aug due to weather.

PONY
Unfortunately we did not take our teams advise and decided not to take ponies, the walk itself if not too hard except for a few extremely steep ascents, taking a pony makes sense “just in case” hiring in Jomsom saves you 50% approximately USD $20 a day with handler.

Altitude first day you hit 3000M, 2nd day 3900M (Chele) panadol for sure Diamox likely, we also carried oxygen – but did not use it.

Accommodation and meals very simple as only a few hundred tourists get permits investment in tourism is nominal carry some of your own provisions although a tent is not really required the homestays and basic lodges are OK Just need a good sleeping bag/pillow.

KING
yes you get to meet the King unfortunately he speaks Nepali and Tibetan only, book on arrival at Lo Manthang Guest house he sees foreigners between 11-1 each day.

An unforgettable experience, totally different views – and much more remote than I expected. The Mustang trek is not easy as some people state and is certainly on par with EBC, can be made easier if you hire a pony. There is news that the tourism authority is dropping the permit from USD700 to USD500 that would help but this is NOT a cheap trip allow $2500pp for the trip.