Lower Mustang Trek: 12 Days

Booking Process: 

Welcome to Himalayan Trekking Path Pvt. Ltd, specializing in the Lower Mustang trek in Nepal. We are local experts for this trek, which is one of the most beautiful in the Annapurna region, offering numerous sights to see and experiences to enjoy. To book your trip, please click on the package and select the 'Book Now' option, where you will need to fill in all the required details for the official documentation. This form requires a 10% deposit and your information. Rest assured, your data will be 100% secure and kept safe. While there are various platforms to book your trip via email, WhatsApp, and social media, we must confirm the trip with a 10% deposit and a copy of your passport to process the booking. Please choose the best method to confirm your trip with Himalayan Trekking Path Pvt. Ltd.

How to pay for the Lower Mustang Trek Package? 

For payment, you can select the method that is most convenient for you to settle the outstanding amount. At the time of booking, a 10% deposit is required, and the remaining 90% must be paid before the trip begins in Kathmandu. There are several options available for paying the package, including bank transfer, online gateway, Wise transfer, cash, and card payments. If you choose to pay by card, an additional 3.5% will be applied to cover bank fees.

Airport Transports 

Airport Transports: The 12 Days Lower Mustang Trek package provides a complete service that includes both airport pickup and drop-off. To arrange for your pickup, please provide your flight number along with your arrival date and time. Our representative will be waiting at the arrival gate, holding a sign with your name and our company pamphlet. You will be greeted with a Khada or flower garland as a welcoming gesture. Afterward, you will be transported to your hotel via private transportation. Similarly, at the end of your trip, we will take you back to the airport, where we will present you with a Khada for good luck and a safe flight.

Kathmandu Accommodation:

The lower Mustang trek package includes one night's accommodation at a hotel on the day of arrival and another night at the end of the trip in Kathmandu. This package features a deluxe hotel, such as Surya Heritage Hotel, Hotel Thamel, and other comparable hotels in Kathmandu, all offering complimentary breakfast. If you are interested in upgrading your hotel, please let us know, and we will assist you in finding the best price.

Pokhara Accommodation

As you journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the package includes two nights' stay at a hotel. You will enjoy one night at Hotel Middle Path in Pokhara before the trek and another night after the trek, both with complimentary breakfast.

Mountain Accommodation

You will stay in Ghorepani at Hungry Eyes, where you may have an attached bathroom if available. Afterward, in Tatopani, you will be accommodated at the Himalayan Lodge, which also features an attached bathroom. In Kalopani village, you will find the Kalopani Guest House, again with an attached bathroom. In Marpha Valley, you will stay at the Sunrise Hotel or a similar establishment, while in Kagbeni, you will be at a guest house in Kagbeni village. In Muktinath, you will stay at Hotel Buddha or a comparable hotel, and for Jomsom, you will be at Dancing Yak or a similar category of hotel. There are also luxury hotels available if you wish to upgrade, but this will incur an additional cost.

Meals in the Mountain 

Mountain meals are part of the package, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast and dinner must be consumed at the lodge where you stay overnight, while lunch is provided during the journey to the destination. There are numerous options for meal choices, such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free foods. However, please be aware that meat and cheese are the primary causes of food poisoning, which is advisable to avoid in the mountains.

Trekking Guide

This trek is truly stunning and is led by a professional, English-speaking, and ethical guide who is licensed by the government and trained by NATHAM. Our guides are highly skilled, youthful, and energetic, possessing extensive knowledge of safety as well as a deep understanding of the culture and nature of the Lower Mustang region. The package includes all guide-related expenses such as food, insurance, gear, salary, accommodation, and transportation. We assign guides based on the size of the group. For groups of up to 6 people, there will be one guide, and for groups of 7 to 10 people, we will provide two guides to ensure your journey is comfortable. 

Trekking Porter

The package includes porter support to ensure your utmost comfort during this journey. Typically, one porter can be shared between two trekkers, with a maximum weight limit of 18 to 20 kg. If you are traveling solo, the package can only accommodate either a porter guide or a guide. If you require both a guide and a porter, you will need to pay for the porter support at a rate of $22 per day. We provide local porters who are economically disadvantaged, strong, honest, and friendly. While porters can speak English, their fluency is not as high as that of a guide. Today, porters are the future's guides. The cost covers the porter’s salary, insurance, meals, accommodation, gear, and transportation. Hiring a porter means making your trip more comfortable and allowing you to fully enjoy nature, while also supporting the local community by creating job opportunities for them. 

Trekking Permits 

The Lower Mustang Trek necessitates two separate permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area permit and the TIMS Card. To acquire these permits, you will need a copy of your passport and a passport-sized photograph. The conservation area permit is aimed at preserving nature and ensuring the upkeep of the trails. Conversely, the TIMS card is focused on safety. The fee for the Annapurna Conservation Area permit is Rs3000 per person, while the TIMS card costs Rs2000 per trekker.

The Best time for the Lower Mustang Trek

The optimal times for the Lower Mustang Trek mirror those of other regions in Nepal, specifically during Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May). Typically, during these seasons, the weather remains stable, offering clear skies and stunning views of both the mountains and the valleys. This trek can also be classified as a winter trek in Nepal, occurring from December to February, due to its lower elevation and the absence of high elevation passes. In winter, while the weather is stable, it can be quite cold, with shorter days but generally clear skies. Undertaking this trek in the winter season provides an excellent experience with fewer crowds, allowing for a deeper immersion into the nature and culture of these beautiful Himalayan regions. The rainy season is not advisable for the lower part of the trek, although the tour can still be considered. Heavy rainfall poses risks such as landslides and wet paths, making the journey more hazardous. Overall, the Lower Mustang Trek can be enjoyed in three seasons: Autumn, Spring, and Winter. If you are in search of a reputable local company, be sure to consider Himalayan Trekking Path Pvt. Ltd.

How difficult is the Lower Mustang Trek?

The Lower Mustang trek is one of the most exhilarating trekking routes, offering an exceptional experience of nature, culture, and history. This trek is moderately difficult, requiring a certain level of physical fitness, but no prior trekking experience is necessary. Each day, participants will walk between 10 and 20 kilometers, reaching a maximum elevation of 3,800 meters, with a daily elevation gain of approximately 600 to 700 meters. This trek is suitable for everyone, from beginners to experienced trekkers, including families with children, couples, solo adventurers, small groups, and large groups. If you are searching for the best trekking trail in Nepal, the Lower Mustang Trek is an excellent choice, showcasing Tibetan and Thakali cultural villages, stunning topography, and breathtaking mountain views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Why Lower Mustang Trek?

• A moderately challenging hike is ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers.
• The Lower Mustang Trek offers tranquility and a less crowded trail in the Annapurna region.
• Experience the breathtaking sunrise views on the trek to Ghorepani and Poon Hill.
• Immerse yourself in the natural hot springs located in Tatopani Village.
• Discover the deep valley filled with dense forests, terraced fields, and numerous impressions.
• Marvel at the Dhaulagiri Ranges, including icefalls, glaciers, glacial rivers, and cascading waterfalls.
• Stay in Kalopani Village, which provides stunning mountain views and is nestled in a lush valley of pine and oak trees.
• Trek to Marpha Village, an ancient historical and cultural Thakali village situated beneath Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
• Uncover the beauty of Jomsom, the windiest valley located along the banks of the Kaligandaki.
• Hike to Kagbeni along the Kaligandaki River through the sandy and arid valley.
• Kagbeni Village is an ancient settlement rich with Tibetan culture and monasteries.
• Muktinath Village is home to the revered Muktinath Temple and its monastery.
• Visit Lupra Village, where the Bon culture has been practiced for centuries.
• Explore the world's deepest Kaligandaki Valley.

Trekking Gears

Clothing

• Moisture-wicking T-shirts
• Fleece jacket
• Lightweight down jacket
• Waterproof jacket
• Trekking pants
• Warm hat and sun hat

Footwear

• Comfortable trekking boots
• Light sandals or camp shoes
• Trekking socks

Backpack & Sleeping

• Daypack (20–30L)
• Duffel bag (if using a porter)
• Sleeping bag (recommended for colder seasons)

Sun & Weather Protection

• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen (SPF 30–50)
• Lip balm
• Buff or scarf

Personal Items

• Water bottle
• Water purification tablets
• Personal toiletries
• Basic first-aid kit

Electronics

• Headlamp
• Power bank
• Phone/camera and chargers

Documents

• Passport copy
• Travel insurance

Most Important:Comfortable trekking boots, layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Lower Mustang has varied weather, strong sun, and occasional wind.

How to Prepare for AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) 

• Ascend gradually and avoid gaining too much altitude in one day.
• Spend an extra acclimatization day at higher elevations.
• Drink plenty of water and stay well hydrated.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking during the trek.
• Eat nutritious, high-carbohydrate meals for energy.
• Walk at a slow and steady pace; do not overexert yourself.
• Learn the symptoms of AMS, such as headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue.
• Carry essential medications and consult a doctor about preventive medicine if needed.
• Inform your guide immediately if you experience AMS symptoms.
• Descend to a lower altitude without delay if symptoms become severe.

Cancellation Policy:

Typically, Himalayan Trekking Path Pvt. Ltd offers significant flexibility; however, cancellations are not a frequent occurrence in the trekking sector. A 10% deposit is non-refundable once a reservation is confirmed. After the reservation, we initiate the trip arrangements with utmost seriousness because we aim to provide the best possible setup. Trekking involves numerous interconnected elements. If you cancel your trip, it impacts many aspects, including the guide, porter, hotel, transportation, and more. We can consider various circumstances, but cancellations are generally not accepted. You may postpone your trip to future dates if you encounter personal issues or other concerns. If you do cancel, we will face challenges with our guides and porters who work on a seasonal basis, and it could harm our reputation in the market. Please understand that we are willing to accommodate your preferences, but we regret to inform you that cancellations cannot be accepted. While you are on the trek and unable to continue due to health issues, weather conditions, or other reasons, we will refund the amount that has not been utilized; however, please note that permits, guides, and porters are non-refundable. Only your food and accommodation expenses can be refunded, or you may choose an alternative option. Himalayan Trekking Path is a genuine team, ensuring you do not have to worry about inflated prices, subpar service, safety, or security.

Understanding the Tipping Culture

In the Nepali tourism sector, it is customary to give tips to guides, porters, and divers. Guides and porters, in particular, spend a significant amount of time with you, ensuring your comfort. They strive to deliver the best possible service, making your experience enjoyable and safe, while also acting as guardians throughout your journey. Tips are typically given on the final day of the trek, based on your satisfaction with their services. Generally, it is common to tip around 10-20% of your package cost for both the guide and porter. Typically, tips for guides are slightly higher than those for porters, but ultimately, the decision is yours.

How much local currency should we bring for the mountain?

Yes, certain services like drinks, Wi-Fi, extra meals, and showers are not part of the package. Therefore, you will need to carry some local money to purchase additional services that are not included in the package. You should have at least $100 in Nepali currency per person. Credit card payments are not widely accepted in the mountains, and ATMs are not available in every location. For tips, you can give in USD or Euros.