Mustang; a land rich in culture and natural beauty

Upper mustang - Kingdom of Lo.

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Mustang, which is located in the Himalayas and stretches north to the Tibetan plateau, meaning “fertile plain.” It is a place of ancient civilizations and breathtaking beauty. Beyond the Annapurna Massif, the Mustang area continues out onto the enormous Tibetan Plateau. Although Mustang has been a part of Nepal since the 18th century, its remote location and imposed position as a “forbidden kingdom” has shielded it from western influences. Moreover, it was Nepal’s best-kept secret until 1992, when it reopened its doors to tourists. Mustang is rich in history and heritage, and the Upper Mustang is among the finest preserved places in the world, with the majority of people still speaking Tibetan. There is no other location on the planet that can match the adventures you’ll have in Mustang.

A Brief History

In terms of history, the Mustang region delivers a punch despite its modest size. It was previously a prohibited kingdom, isolated from China and with the Nepali government prohibiting international entrance. When Dalai Lama departed Tibet in 1959 as the Chinese administration became more brutal, the exclusion began. In the early 1960s, the Khampa people’s famed warriors joined forces with other local groups in the Mustang region to oppose the Chinese government. As a result, China urged that the Nepali government prohibit any foreigners from entering the Mustang area, which serves as a conduit to Tibet. Foreigners were forbidden to visit the site from 1962 to 1992, after which the visitors were finally permitted to enter the Mustang region.

Mustang was formerly an autonomous country with its own ruler, occupying a crucial location on the supply line between the Mountains and India’s plains. The monarchy was dismantled in 2008 by a decree of the Nepali government, implying that the Mustang Region forfeited its designation as a ‘kingdom,’ yet many in the region still acknowledge the monarchy today. However, in recent times Mustang has been somewhat influenced by modern trends as the roadway has been made making the site more accessible to visitors.

A Destination Worth Every Penny

The Mustang region of Nepal is considered a sacred place by Buddhists and Hindus alike. It is located in the Muktinath Valley in Nepal’s northern region. It is divided into two halves, known as the Upper Mustang and Lower Mustang Valleys. Sherpa people’s lifestyle and culture, as well as historic settlements, may be found. The former kingdom of the Upper Mustang Region may be explored by trekkers. The Mustang area has a thriving Buddhist culture that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the Tibetan people’s nature and culture. The trek to Mustang brings you to a mystery portion of Nepal, particularly in the high reaches of the nation. Mustang Trekking allows you to take hikers into the secret realm of Lo, an ancient Buddhist kingdom.

Muktinath
Photo by Abinash Paudel

Trekking in the Mustang Region is an excellent choice for energetic trekkers visiting Nepal from all over the world. The walk offers a great deal of religious and cultural variety. Trekking in the Mustang Region allows you to discover the country’s second-deepest gorge. Other attractions include the upper Mustang area known as Lomangthang, Muktinath Temple, several old and famous monasteries, and many more. Aside from that, you’ll be able to see apple orchards and rhododendron (national flower of Nepal) woods, as well as the visual wonders of the Himalayan area.

Upper Mustang

The village of Kagbeni, Upper Mustang, Nepal
Small village Kagbeni in the valley of the Kali Gandaki with green terraces on the background of the ridge of Annapurna in Tibet. Upper Mustang, Nepal.

Upper Mustang Journey is a moderately difficult trek that may be done at any time of year without failing to have a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. Upper Mustang Trip is also known as Lo-Manthang Trekking, which is recognized amongst hardcore adventure enthusiasts in Nepal as an arid desert trek. The Upper Mustang trip is unique in that it takes place in a remote hiking environment. Upper Mustang Trek allows you to visit monasteries that date back thousands of years in Nepal’s Himalayan deserts. The scenery is quite breathtaking, with several little caverns dating back thousands of years. Because the Upper Mustang region is a rain gumshoe area, the hike is best done during the monsoon season. Thus, Mustang is also renowned as Nepal’s “secret gem.”

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