The once forbidden kingdom of Mustang lies in the north-west region of Nepal. Owing to an old treaty between Nepal and China, Mustang was saved from being a part of the People's Republic when their forces invaded Tibet in 1959. To-day this windswept mountain realm harbors one of the last authentic remnants of Tibetan culture.
Two distinct regions, northern and southern, forms the Upper Mustang area. Five villages inhabited by people of Managi origin dominate the southern area. The Managi people call themselves Gurung people though they are geographically and culturally very different from the majority Gurungs who dwell the Annapurna foothills in the mid western Nepal. Where as the ancient kingdom with its capital Lo lies in the northern area - where the language, traditions are purely Tibetan. Lo maintained its status as a separate principality until 1951. The king of Lo still retains his title and he has been given the honorary rank of Colonel in the Nepal Army.
Our trek to this land of magic and mystery begins at Jomsom, following the swift flowing Thak Khola to Kaagbeni, a ruined citadel town that guards the entrance into Mustang. Entering Mustang, we visit the 16th century monastery at Charang and the fortress city of Lhomathangang. Here we observe the splendour and traditions of old Tibet that have suffered extinction in Tibet due to the Chinese takeover of its sovereignty. On our return from Mustang we visit the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath and end our trek in Jomsom.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Kathmandu
Day 2: Bus to Pokhara
Day 3-12: Fly Jomsom and trek
Day 13: Fly Jonsom Pokhara and bus to Kathmandu
Day 14: Free day in Kathmandu
Day 15: International Departure-Trip ends |