LO MANTHANG MUSTANG

Lying beyond the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massif in central Nepal is the hidden Kingdom of Mustan, an intriguing parched region, forming part of the Tibetan plateau. Untouched by the outside world, 16th century monasteries remain active, adorned with unrivalled frescoes, thankas and status of gigantic deities, preserving ancient traditions. Mustang is the land of Barley field's pastures for grazing herds. These upper reaches of the Kali Gandaki river which has tantalized a generation of trekkers - have recently been opened in 1992. Mustang being a restricted area, there are certain formalities required by the government of Nepal in obtaining a special permit.The journey to Mustang begins with a flight to Jomsom via Pokhara. Two days walking from Jomsom we cross the traditional boundary into the wild lunar landscape of Mustang. Our itinerary allows plenty of time to explore the main town of Lo Manthang, the impressive walled capital. Mustang trek is scheduled during the summer months when the people are most active in the fields, villages and monasteries. The trek ends at Jomsom and from here we fly back to Kathmandu via Pokhara.

Mustang, "The Forbidden Kingdom" is situated north of the Himalayas and juts out onto the Tibetan Plateau. The region of Mustang has more in common culturally and geographically with Tibet than it does with the rest of Nepal.

A journey into Mustang is like travelling back in time for a glimpse of what Tibet might have been before the Chinese occupation. Mustang retains much of its cultural autonomy and is administered by its own King or Raja, the 25th successor of his lineage. It is no wonder why it was opened for western visitors only after 1992.This magical journey in time begins with a short flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which on a clear day reveals splendid views from Langtang (7234m) to Dhaulagiri (8163m), an unforgettable experience. The actual trek begins from the rive side town of Birethanti, a short drive from Pokhara. From Birethanti here 2 days of gentle ascent will take you over terraced hills and through rhododendron forests, no mountain views unfortunately. There are, however glimpses of snow-capped splendour of Annapurna South (7219m). Soon the forests thin out and more vistas of the world’s highest peaks of Dhaulagiri I (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m), Nilgiri (7061m), Fish Tail (6993m) and numerous other peaks reveal themselves. A relaxing day is spent on the way in Tatopani where refreshing natural hot springs welcome you. The world’s deepest gorge can be seen on your way up to Kagbeni carved out by the mighty Kaligandaki River.

From here on you follow an ancient trade route through numerous villages along the windy river. This harsh and arid landscape offers its own imposing, rugged beauty. The hills are reminiscent of intricately coloured hues of blue, grey, white and yellow of Mandalas. Natural pigments from these hills are used to paint the Chortens and Gompas of this region forming a distinctive style. The village of Tangbe boasts an impressive Chorten striped by eight connected spirals. Across the river from Chusang eroded cliffs can be seen which resemble the pipes of a cathedral organ. You then climb to the valley of Nye La (12956), the highest pass on this trek. The descent from this point on takes you past one of the longest and most impressive Mani walls in Nepal while the walled city of Lo- Manthang can be seen shimmering over the horizon. The capital of the kingdom of Mustang, this city contains the richest surviving collection of 15th century Buddhist Mandalas in the world. Due to the destruction of temples in Tibet, the values of these Mandalas are immeasurable. The city and the surrounding valley can be explored on horseback the following day before you turn back to the flowing Kaligandaki.

OUTLINE ITINERARY

Day 1 7 hours drive to Pokhara
Day 2 Drive to Nayapul and commence trek Birethanti
Day 3 Trek to Ghorepani
Day 4 Trek to Tatopani
Day 5 Trek to Lete
Day 6 Trek to Marpha
Day 7 Trek to Kagbeni
Day 8 Trek to Chusang
Day 9 Trek to Geling
Day 10-11 Trek to Lo Manthang
Day 12-13 Lo Manang, the ancient capital.
Day 13-17 Trek to Tsarang
Day 14 Trek to Tsarang
Day 15 Trek to Geling
Day 16 Trek to Tsele
Day 17 Trek to Kagbeni,
Day 18 Trek to Jomsomx
Day 19 Morning flight to Pokhara trek concludes.

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