Mustang
Mustang is one of the seventy-seven districts of Nepal. The name "Mustang" is derived from the Tibetan word meaning "Plain of Aspiration".
It covers an area of 3,573 sq. Km. (1,380 sq mi). The district headquarter is Jomsom. The elevation ranges from 1,372 to 8,167 meters (Mount Dhaulagiri, the 7th highest mountain in the world), with several peaks above 7,000 meters.
Mustang has been often considered as an ancient forbidden kingdom. The Kingdom of Mustang was a dependency of the Kingdom of Nepal since 1975. Strict regulations of tourists here have aided in maintaining Tibetan traditions. Upper Mustang was a restricted demilitarized area until 1992, which makes it one of the most preserved regions in the world due to its relative isolation from the outside world, with the majority of the population still speaking traditional Tibetic languages. Upper Mustang was opened to foreigners in 1992. The monarchy is Mustang ceased to exist on October 7, 2008, by order of the Government of Nepal, after Nepal became a federal democratic republic.
Geographically, Mustang is divided into two sub-regions, Lower and Upper. It is a vast arid valley, distinguished by eroded canyons, vividly colored stratified rock formations, and barren high-altitude deserts. The mean minimum monthly air temperature falls to -2.7 degree Celsius in winter while the maximum monthly air temperature reaches 23.1 degrees Celsius in summer.
How to get to Mustang
The best way to discover the rugged beauty of Mustang is with a four-wheel-drive (4WD) adventure. Trithunga Adventure provides a four-wheel-drive power-packed package for an adventurer to explore the culture, nature, and heritage of the most scenic parts of Mustang via road.
Why Trighunga Adventure?
Trithunga Adventure - is led by people who know the mountainous region of Mustang inside-out. Run and managed by a family that has been in hospitality for over seven decades, a team with decades of experience, diversity, and credibility, ensuring experience in 4WD Adventure. Having more than 12 years of experience, Trithunga adventure allows you to create your adventure crafted especially for you through tailor-made holiday packages with great accommodation and experiences guaranteed.
You get to sit back and enjoy the cultural scenic landscape as one of our highly experienced and certified guides drives you to the location and leads you on an adventure. Whether you want to go on mountains, festivals, ride a horse, explore cultural heritage, or hike we've got you covered.
Must-visit areas
Kali Gandaki Gorge
Kali Gandaki Gorge is the deepest gorge in the world. The gorge separates the major peaks of Dhaulagiri (8,167m or 26,795 ft) on the west and Annapurna (8,091m or 26,545 ft) on the east. The Kali Gandaki Gorge has been used as a trade route between India and Tibet for centuries. Today, it is part of a popular trekking route from Pokhara to Muktinath, part of the Annapurna Circuit. The gorge is within the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Lo Manthang
Lo Manthang lies at the northernmost part of the Mustang. The village is noted for its tall whitewashed mud-brick walls, gompas, and the Royal Palace. Even though foreign visitors have been allowed since 1992, tourism to Upper Mustang remains limited. The Nepalese Department of Immigration requires foreign visitors to obtain a special permit, which costs $50 per day per person, and liaison (guide) to protect local traditions from outside influence as well as to protect their environment.
Jomsom
Jomsom is the district headquarters of Mustang. It is the main hub for onward travel to Upper Mustang and Muktinath. Regular flights to Pokhara are operated from Jomsom Airport. The strong winds that blow up the valley prevent flights from taking off from Jomsom after 11 am. Apart from being commercial as well as the administrative hub for Mustang, Jomsom is a beautiful scenic town where beautiful mountain peaks of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri forms a backdrop to the town. The famous Kali Gandaki river flows right through the center of Jomsom.
Kagbeni
Kagbeni is a village in the Upper Mustang located in the valley of the Kali Gandaki River. It lies on the trail from Jomsom to the Lo Manthang, near the junction with the trail to Muktinath.
Muktinath
Muktinath is a Vishnu temple, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. It is located in Muktinath valley at the foot of the Thorong La mountain pass in Mustang, Nepal. It is one of the world's highest temples at an altitude of 3,800m.
Marpha
Marpha is a tourist village lying near the Jomsom. It is famous for its apple plantation, along with Marpha brandy and apple jams. It is also a common overnight halt on the Annapurna circuit trek.
Tukuche
The village is located in the Kali Gandaki Gorge. It is the center of the Thakali people. These residing Thakali people brand the Thakali tradition, especially Thakali food items (Thakali Khana set and Thakali Khaja set). Besides food, other attractions lie on the white plastered, wooden houses, dusty and dry land, and also the unique culture and lifestyle of people.
Lete
A scenic village surrounded by Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Nilgiri.
Conclusion
Mustang is a place at the crossroads connecting two ancient civilizations of Asia. From ancient trading routes between India and Tibet, it has been gradually opening towards tourism. Mustang has a lot to offer to tourists from ancient forts, stupas, Tibetan culture to majestic views of the high Himalayan peak of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Nilgiri, and many more. Tourists can visit the place by the trek or 4WD adventure based on their preferences. Trithunga Adventure is a perfect adventure partner for anyone wishing to discover the rugged beauty of Nepal with a 4WD adventure.
