Mustang Region Nepal – The Hidden Kingdom of the Himalayas
Nestled in the northern reaches of Nepal and bordering Tibet, the Mustang Region is a land of stark beauty, ancient culture, and dramatic contrasts. Often referred to as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” Mustang offers a unique journey into a Tibetan-influenced world that has remained largely untouched by time.
A region of windswept plateaus, colorful rock formations, and medieval villages, Mustang is divided into two distinct parts: Lower Mustang and Upper Mustang, each offering a different experience for travelers.
Lower Mustang: Gateway to Mustang’s Wonders
Lower Mustang, part of the Annapurna Conservation Area, is more accessible and does not require a restricted area permit. The region stretches from the lush valleys of Jomsom and Marpha up to Kagbeni, where the Kali Gandaki River carves one of the world’s deepest gorges.
Highlights of Lower Mustang include:
- Jomsom – a windy mountain town and gateway for treks and flights.
- Marpha – known for its charming stone-lined alleys and apple orchards.
- Kagbeni – a medieval village with mud-brick houses and a centuries-old monastery, serving as the checkpoint and border for Upper Mustang entry.
- Muktinath – a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, known for its eternal flame and 108 water spouts believed to purify the soul.
- Lower Mustang combines Himalayan landscapes with Tibetan culture and is ideal for those seeking shorter day hikes and less demanding treks without special permits.
Upper Mustang: The Forbidden Kingdom
Upper Mustang is the culturally rich, remote portion of the region that was off-limits to foreigners until 1992. Access still requires a special permit, preserving its unique heritage. The landscape here is arid and otherworldly, resembling the high plateaus of Tibet more than lush Nepalese hills.
Trekking through Upper Mustang offers a journey through timeless Buddhist villages, ancient monasteries, and dramatic desert-like landscapes.
Key highlights of Upper Mustang include:
- Chele – the first major settlement after crossing into Upper Mustang, with distinct chortens and stone walls.
- Samar – a charming village surrounded by poplar trees, known for its peaceful atmosphere and gateway to cave explorations.
- Syangboche – a small settlement offering panoramic views and a traditional way of life.
- Ghilling – a beautiful village with barley fields and whitewashed houses beneath ochre cliffs.
- Ghami – one of the largest villages in Upper Mustang, known for its ancient mani walls and surrounding red cliffs.
- Chosang – a less-visited but culturally rich village, home to cave dwellings and traditional Mustang architecture.
- Ghar Gompa – one of the oldest active monasteries in Mustang, associated with the 8th-century saint Padmasambhava and considered a powerful spiritual site for the fulfillment of wishes.
- Lo Manthang – the ancient walled capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang, home to centuries-old monasteries, royal palaces, and vibrant festivals.
- Chhoser Caves – mysterious man-made cave dwellings carved into towering cliffs, believed to have been used for meditation, burial, and shelter.
Each village along the Upper Mustang offers a glimpse into the region’s unique Tibetan-influenced culture, where life remains rooted in age-old traditions.
Best time to visit Mustang, Nepal
Upper Mustang is ideal from April to June and October to November, when it’s dry and perfect for trekking. It stays relatively dry even in summer due to its location in the rain shadow, but Lower Mustang can be wet from July to September.
Lower Mustang is best in spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November). Lower Mustang is also accessible in winter (December–February) if you don’t mind the cold, though Upper Mustang sees heavy snow and most lodges close.
Why Visit Mustang with Wind Horse Tours?
At Wind Horse Tours, we know Mustang like few others. Some of our team members are locals from the region, and we visit Mustang regularly to stay connected with its communities and landscapes. This deep-rooted knowledge allows us to craft journeys that are authentic, culturally rich, and always up to date.
With us, you’re guided by people who consider Mustang home — or a second home — ensuring your experience is both meaningful and immersive.
With century-old tradition and culture, ancient caves, historically rich archeological sites, and magnificent landscape make Upper Mustang Tour a...
