Upper Mustang Trek Difficulty: Is This Trek Right for You?

The Upper Mustang Trek is one of the most exciting treks in the rugged, desert-like landscapes in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Trekkers get to experience ancient, Tibetan-influenced culture along with some of the stunning views of the Annapurna massif. However, with the iconic beauty and experience comes the Upper Mustang Trek difficulty.

Upper Mustang has a unique, rugged terrain with extreme weather. The trek takes the trekkers to a significant elevation of 4230 meters (13,878 ft) at Marang (Chogo) La Pass. So, they get to experience the low-elevation villages, rivers, farmland, etc., as well as high-elevation villages, passes (Bhanjyang), cliffs, etc.

So, how difficult is the Upper Mustang Trek? Let’s discuss it in detail.

Can anyone do the Upper Mustang Trek?

The Upper Mustang Trek can be completed by anyone with decent physical fitness, prior high-altitude trekking experience, and strong determination. This trek is ideal for those looking for a remote setting, peace, and cultural experiences.

However, if you have any illness, especially related to the heart, lungs or breathing, this trek can be really challenging for them. However, with proper planning, preparedness, and acclimatization methods, the Upper Mustang Trek difficulty can be compensated for.

What Makes the Upper Mustang Trek Difficult

There are several factors that increase the Upper Mustang Trek difficulty. Some factors are the long, enduring walk, altitude, remote location, unpredictable weather, rugged terrain, and many more.

Besides these factors, your physical and mental preparedness is equally important. Likewise, it is crucial that you pack trekking gear for the Upper Mustang trek consciously. Overpacking or underpacking can further increase the trek’s difficulty.

Here are some of the factors that can make the Upper Mustang Trek difficult.

Risks Due to Altitude

The highest elevation of the Upper Mustang Trek is 4230 meters at Marang (Chogo) La Pass. This is a significant altitude where suffering from altitude sickness is common.

Above 2500 meters (8200 ft), trekkers can show symptoms like headaches, nausea, loss of breath and sleep, dizziness, etc. Even the fittest can fall victim to altitude sickness.

So, it is vital that you include acclimatization days in your trek itinerary.

Long Distance and Trekking Hours

Upper Mustang Trek with Himalayan Masters is a 14-day long trek, with 10 days of trekking and 4 days of driving.

Each trekking day is normally a 5-7 hours long hike on the remote and bumpy Upper Mustang trail. These long days really test your physical and mental endurance.

Rugged Upper Mustang Landscapes

Upper Mustang has some of the unique, unseen landscapes in Nepal. Far from the green, tropical forests of Nepal, this region presents itself with desert-like landscapes.

The Annapurna region falls in the rain shadow zone, due to which the region receives limited rain. Apart from this, there are some steep ascents and descents, especially around Chele and Marang La Pass.

Harsh Weather and Temperature

The weather in Upper Mustang trek is unpredictable. Afternoons are usually warmer, with strong winds, approximately 50 km/h (31 mph), and intense sunlight. At the same time, the nights are cold, especially at higher elevations.

The dry air, wind and dust make the trek difficult.  We suggest you find a safe place or a ditch to avoid dust blowing along with strong winds.

Accessibility

Almost every part of the Upper Mustang region can be accessed on foot or by vehicle. There are roadways up to Lo Manthang and beyond to the Korala Border. This might be a downside for trekkers looking for solitude and an off-the-beaten trek route.

Additionally, due to vehicles passing by, the trek route could get really dusty. For this, we suggest you pack face masks and a gaiter to be safe from this dust. Or, you can opt for the alternative trekking route.

Permit and Cost Challenges

The Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang, is a restricted area. So, trekkers will need a special permit to roam around here. Apart from this Restricted Area Permit (RAP), you need to obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) in your Upper Mustang Trek permit. Solo trekking is not allowed.

Furthermore, to visit some of the iconic sites inside Lo Manthang, like Thubchen Gompa, Jampa Gompa, and Chode Gompa, you will need to pay around $10 around as an entry fee.

These restrictions and permits increase the overall cost of the trek. Not only this, but also, due to its remote location, the food and accommodation in the Upper Mustang Trek are comparatively expensive to other treks in the Annapurna region.

Further, you need to consider guide and porter fees, transportation, and additional expense constraints.

How do you comprehend the difficulty of the Upper Mustang Trek?

To ensure your safety and make the trek as comfortable and memorable as possible, you need to plan your trek way ahead. This trek is not just about packing your bag and setting out. You will need to have some sort of training and preparation.

From the experts’ suggestions at Himalayan Masters, we have prepared some tips to comprehend the Upper Mustang Trek difficulty.

• Start training at least 2-3 months before the trek. Focus on hiking, cardio and strength training.
• Allow your body to acclimate properly. Include a few rest days in your trek itinerary.
• Wear a scarf, face mask, balaclava, sunglasses, etc., to protect yourself from dust and wind.
• Drink at least 3 litres of water daily. It is essential to purify your water before drinking in the mountains.
• Carry extra Nepali cash for the trek, as no ATMs are en route. You might be spending additional money on snacks, donations to monasteries, tips, and additional services in teahouses, etc.
• Pack according to the season you are trekking in. You might want to pack some light clothes if you are trekking in spring or autumn, whereas some thick, warm winter gear for winter trekking. Likewise, packing some rain gear for monsoon trekking is wise.
• For more personal insights on the route and villages on the way, hire a local guide and porter. This helps generate income for the locals and promotes sustainable tourism.
• We suggest starting trekking as early as possible. The weather in the mountains can change in a matter of time; a bright morning can change to a gloomy evening. And a windy afternoon is another persistent difficult factor.
• Using a trekking pole helps in reducing strain on your knees.
• Do not miss any meals, keep yourself energized, and eat healthily. Having Dal Bhat is our best suggestion.

How Does It Compare to Other Treks in Nepal

Nepal is a paradise for trekkers. Everest Base Camp Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, etc., are some of the most popular and awe-inspiring treks in Nepal.

Let’s compare how these treks differ in difficulty from other treks in Nepal.

Why trek with Himalayan Masters?

Himalayan Masters is the best trekking organizing company in Nepal. With 5-star ratings in both Google Reviews and TripAdvisor, we have built a reputation as a top-rated trekking agency for several treks in Nepal. From the easy Upper Mustang Trek to the challenging Everest Three Passes Trek and the unique, exciting Everest Helicopter Tour, we organize all sorts of treks in the Himalayas.

So, what is it that is stopping you from experiencing the stunning landscapes, unique, unexplored villages, and rich culture of Upper Mustang? Book your Upper Mustang Trek with Himalayan Masters.

To book your trek with us, you can contact us through our email (info@[email protected]), WhatsApp (+977-9823636377), or you can fill out an online application from our official website.

Despite all the desert-like, rough, steep terrains, the Upper Mustang Trek difficulty is considered easy, along with its ancient cultural experience.