Kathmandu
Kathmandu
Accommodation: Hotel & Lodge (Tea House)
3 Course Meals
Moderate to fairly challenging
3730m
Ancient Buddhist cave art
Monasteries and Buddhist architecture
Traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture
Trekking & Sightseeing
A trek that takes you along the Kali Gandaki Valley to the ancient Himalayan Kingdom of Mustang
The word ‘Mustang’ conjures up ideas of remoteness and seclusion, a region lost amongst the mountains. This was an independent country until it was closely consolidated into Nepal just a few decades ago. The region of Mustang lies north of the main Himalayan range in the area known as the Trans-Himalaya. A vast, dry and arid high valley, it has a barren desert-like appearance similar to the Tibetan Plateau and is characterized by eroded canyons and colorful stratified rock formations. It was once an important route for crossing the Himalaya between Tibet and Nepal, and many of the old salt caravans passed through Mustang.
Known to its inhabitants as Lo, Mustang was only opened to trekkers in March 1992 and you will be part of a small privileged minority to visit this remote outpost of Nepal. The capital of the Mustang district is actually Jomsom but the Tibetan influenced area, north of Kagbeni is known as Upper Mustang. It is the area which we will explore fully, discovering the wonders of the architecture, language, culture and traditions which are almost purely Tibetan in this once-upon-a-time mystical kingdom.
The kingdom of Mustang lies in the rain shadow formed by the Annapurna & Nilgiri Himalayas and thus gets very little rain which fortunately, makes the area ideal for trekking even in the mid monsoon while the other areas of Nepal remain unsuitable for trekking due to heavy monsoon rains. The Trek to this mystique kingdom which requires a special permit that costs US$ 500 per person (valid for 10 Days) begins at the airstrip of Jomsom after flying up early from Pokhara. Mustang Trek is rather easy as most of the route goes along the bank of Kali Gandaki River and eventually leads you to Lo Manthang, the capital of Mustang at 3840 meter, which is the highest point on this trip.
Fascinating areas, culturally and historically picturesque villages, monasteries, unique landscapes with easy access and very few trekkers going to this area are the major highlights of Mustang Trek. This is among the very few adventure trips in Nepal which can be done throughout the year.
You will be greeted by a panoramic view of snow-capped mountain peaks sprawling down below once you fly in the sky of Kathmandu. A representative and driver from our office will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The representative will help you check into your designated hotel. At the hotel you will be briefed about your daily activities. .
Kathmandu is the historical and cultural heart of Nepal and has been a popular destination for tourists ever since Nepal opened its doors to visitors. The city presents a wonderful mix of Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism and Western influence. There will be a guided tour to UNESCO World Heritage Sites namely Boudhanath- the largest Buddhist Stupa in Nepal, Pashupatinath- most popular Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and Patan or Lalitpur (the City of Artisans), which is 5km away from Kathmandu. At Patan Durbar Square, you will delight in the architectural wonders of Malla era. Mahaboudha Temple, Kumbeshwor Temple, Krishna Temple and Golden Temple are the major attractions at the square. Overnight at Hotel. .
You drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara for 6/7 hrs along the scenic highway. After reaching Pokhara you will be transferred to your hotel. If time avails, you may go for a boat ride in the tranquil Fewa Lake in the evening..
We take a spectacular early morning flight to Jomsom (famous for its apples) where we meet our trek crew at a tiny airstrip. After some initial preparation of loads, we begin our trek to the pretty village of Kagbeni. Just out of Jomsom we cross a small suspension bridge and then walk along the riverbank of the Kali Gandaki. The trail is flat and quite barren, with craggy rocks and sand littering the trail. This makes it very easy going. We will get magnificent views of huge peaks such as Dhaulagiri, Tukuche and Nilgiri, whilst to the south can be seen the entire Annapurna massif. Kagbeni with its narrow alleyways and tunnels, irrigation canals, fields of wheat and barley and a large red Gompa, give us a preview of scenes that we would come across in Upper Mustang. At the north end of the village is the police check-post. Here we will complete our paperwork before entering this long forbidden region of Nepal..
It is possible to trek right up the river valley, but we use a combination of the high trail and the riverbank pathways. The trail then widens significantly revealing an endless stretch of sand but the path is kept interesting by the passing of mule trains bearing goods from Mustang and Tibet. On the west bank of the river are some caves and Gompa Kang. Unlike most monasteries in Upper Mustang which are of the Sakyapa sect, Gompa Kang is of the Nyingmapa sect. We stop for lunch at the village of Tangbe, where we come across the first black, white and red Chortens that typify Upper Mustang. The little town is a labyrinth of narrow alleys among white washed houses, fields of buck wheat and barley and apple orchards. Nilgiri Peak continues to dominate the southern skyline. Chhuksang village is only about 2 hrs’ walk beyond Tangbe at the confluence of the Narshing Khola and the Kali Gandaki. There are three separate parts to this village and some ruined castle walls on the surrounding cliffs. Across the river from Chhuksang are some spectacular red eroded cliffs above the mouths of some inaccessible caves..
There is a distinct change here, not only in the topography, but also in the culture, lifestyle and people, and the settlements become more scattered, smaller and more basic. The people of Lo or Mustang practice agriculture. But due to lack of rain and fertile soil, cultivation is limited to sheltered plots of land. This spots the brown landscape with patches of green. Continuing north, we reach the river. A steel bridge spans the river just in front of a tunnel and north from here the Kali Gandaki becomes impassable on foot. The trek now leaves the valley and climbs steeply up a rocky gully to the village of Chele. Watch out for the ferocious Tibetan mastiffs here, which are chained to many of the houses. From Chele you climb a steep spur and then continue ascending along the side of a spectacular steep canyon to a pass. Beyond the pass we descend on a pleasant trail to Samar, situated in a grove of poplar trees. This is a major place to stop for horse and mule caravans..
We climb above Samar to a ridge and then descend into a large gorge past a Chorten before entering another valley filled with juniper trees. We then cross a stream and after climbing to a pass, we descend along a ridge to Shyangmochen, a tiny settlement with a few tea shops. Nearby is Rangbyung, a cave containing stalagmites which have formed in the shape of Chorten and one of the holiest places in Mustang. The trail climbs gently from Shyangmochen and we enter another huge valley before descending to Geling, with its extensive fields of barley. Like in all settlements of Mustang, the white and ochre-painted houses in Geling are constructed using mud and stones. The roofs are made of twigs, straw and a mixture of mud and pebbles..
From Geling, the trail climbs gently through fields, up the center of the valley, passing above the settlement of Tama Gun and an imposing Chorten. We then begin a taxing climb across the head of the valley to the Nyi La (3840m). The descent from the pass is quite gentle and about half an hour further on we come to a trail junction; the right trail is the direct route to Charang, the left trail leads to Ghami. Ghami is a large white-washed village sheltered by overhanging cliffs. .
Today’s walk is through perhaps the driest part of Mustang, and much of our energy will be spent negotiating the loose, dry soil. However, the magnificent views of the countryside, from the gentle contours of the north to the rugged mountains in the east and west, more than compensates for the hard climb. Finally, we come to Charang, a large spread-out village at the top of the Charang Chu canyon. At the eastern end of the village are a huge dzong [fortress] and a red gompa which houses an excellent collection of statues and thangkas..
We spend part of the morning exploring the interesting village of Charang and its large monastery, before setting out for Lo Manthang. We climb gently above the valley to a large isolated Chorten that marks the boundary between Charang and Lo Manthang. The trail then broadens and eventually we get our first view of the walled city of Lo Manthang. The city has only one entrance so we circumambulate the wall to the gate on the north-east corner..
Today, you are free to explore the fascinating city of Lo Manthang. The city contains about 150 houses, as well as residences for its many lamas. There are four major temples within the city and one of these, Champa Lhakang, contains a huge clay statue of Buddha as well as elaborates mandalas painted on the walls. The king's palace is an imposing building in the center of the city and is occupied by the current King and Queen. Although his duties are largely ceremonial, the King is respected by the people. Throughout the kingdom, the villagers continue to seek his advice regarding many issues. It is possible to hire horses to visit these valleys, but this short tour will incur extra costs. .
We begin our return journey from Lo Manthang, taking the upper highland route. This highland route offers dramatic views of Lo Manthang and the Charang Valley, with snow clad peaks in the background. Just past the settlement of Lo Gekar, we reach the oldest monastery in Mustang, the Ghar Gompa. .
We continue our journey on the highland route, crossing alpine meadows before dropping down a steep eroded gully to Dhakmar for lunch. After lunch, we walk through the pretty valley, climb to a ridge and descend from there back to Ghami. .
Now we must retrace our route back to Jomsom, where we end our trek. In the evening, we celebrate with the Sherpas and porters, whom we have come to know so well over the last 2 weeks. .
You take a spectacular early morning flight along the Kali Gandaki gorge to Pokhara. After reaching Pokhara you will have city tour and boating in Phewa lake..
You take a thirty-minute flight to Kathmandu from Pokhara airport. During the flight, you get to savor the most mesmerizing views of glorious Manaslu and the snow-capped Annapurna Mountain range.
Our Nepali support team will take you to the airport for your flight home. If you prefer to stay longer, you can go on short tours such as game drives at national parks, rafting, Tibet tours, mountain biking, etc..
This is a long trek that goes right into remotest corner of high mountain country and over high pass. Physically quite tiring, it involves approx 6-8 hours trekking along rocky ridges. No previous experience is required, you should be moderately fit, used to some regular exercise and enjoy walking in the high altitude conditions.
We offer several options regarding the organization of your trek:
1) Guide, Accommodation and Porter trek (GAP trek)
Includes: Accommodation, guide and porters
Excludes: Food
This is an abbreviation of Guide Accommodation and Porters (GAP). This option of the trek is for those who want basic support from us. This is the most economic way to do trekking in Nepal. We provide an English speaking local Sherpa guide, book and pay for the accommodation in local lodges during trek and arrange required porters. Trekkers pay for meals directly to the local lodge owner. Expect to spend around 2000-2500 Rupees a day for food. Guide, accommodation and porters are covered in the price.
2) Camping trek
On camping trek you will be sleeping and eating on tents. A trekking crew contains one Sirdar, one cook and the numbers of kitchen crew, Sherpa assistants and porters depending on the size of the group. Under the leadership of the Sirdar (the local trek leader) the crew will ensure you take the right path. The kitchen crew will keep you well fed with delicious and nutritious meals. The porters shall transport the gear from camp to camp. Our main aim is to make the trek as hassle-free and enjoyable as possible. Sirdar and his assistants speak basic English, good enough to explain to you about the places, local culture or any sight that catches your eyes.
Includes: Guide, Porters, Cook, All meals and tents
3) Lodge or tea house trek
Although simple, the teahouses or lodges do provide shelter and warmth and are normally run by friendly local families. The lodge or tea house treks are less expensive than camping trek and are largely suitable for small groups.
Includes: Accommodation in Lodge, guide, porters and all meals
YOUR TREK CAN BE ORGANIZED IN ALL THE 3 WAYS AS MENTIONED ABOVE.
Trekking in the Annapurna region does not need tremendous logistics in terms of accommodation as you will find plenty of clean and friendly lodges along the trail. We stay in single rooms where possible, but often you will have to share. Rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow and blankets. All lodges have spacious dining room-lounge. We will accommodate you and your group in local lodge available each day. We send a porter ahead of us to book the required rooms for the group (rooms cannot be booked in advance). Please remember that some of them are very basic and a sense of adventure is necessary.
It is cheaper to stay in lodge rather than organizing a camping trek. Camping trek means sleeping in tents. On a camping trek, the tents provided are ‘Two men dome’ or ‘A’ shaped. Foam mattress with insulation underneath is provided for sleeping. Clients need to have their own sleeping bag. Bags or cloth packs are used as pillows. If you wish, you can bring your own ‘Air pillow’.
We have a pool of hotels in Kathmandu with 3 Star categories which we provide to clients in connection to this itinerary, unless it is mentioned otherwise or clients have a special choice.
Lodge Trek:
Meals are included in our price and are taken in Lodges available along the trail. You can find a considerable variety of Nepali and Western food as well as drinks (coffee, tea, milk, soft drinks, and beer).
Camping Trek:
Meals are prepared by our cook. We provide three tasty and nutritious meals daily along with drinks.
GAP Trek:
You will have to make your own eating arrangements in the Lodges available along the trail. Expect to spend around 2000-2500 Rupees a day for food. Guide, accommodation and porters are covered in the price.
WATER
On camping trek, our staff will boil water and cook meals treated by potassium permanganate or iodine. On GAP trek and Lodge trek, you will be able to buy bottled water in tea houses.
We recommend you to bring water purification pills.
During trek your main luggage will be carried by porters or pack animals (usually yaks or cross breeds). You simply carry a day pack with water bottle, camera, sun-screen, spare jacket, etc. – a small load that allows full enjoyment of the trek. A trek bag is ideal for your main luggage, plus a small lockable bag for travel clothes or anything that you do not need during trek which you can leave at hotel’s locker room/safe deposit box in Kathmandu for free of charge. Weight allowance at Nepal’s domestic airlines is 15kgs, excess weight is chargeable at about USD 1.5 or more per Kilo depending on sectors.
We provide different options concerning leadership in order to match your requirements:
1) Western leader
2) Trained Nepali Trek leader (experienced and knowledgeable)
3) Sherpa Guide (handles the logistics and guides you and your team on the trek)
The Sherpa guide (commonly called Sirdar) will be accompanied by a crew of porters. On camping trek, there will be 2/3 porters for each members while on GAP and Lodge trek 1 porter for 2 members.
Our trips are available on both fixed departure and private basis. If you are looking for a group to join this trip please check our ‘2018 departures’ link for availability, dates and price. If you would like to travel independently, or with your friends, families & colleagues you are invited to choose any of the trips at your convenient timeframe for any number of people (minimum 1 & maximum 100 at a time).
If you want to do something that is not included in our trip list we are ready to tailor a trip to suit your exact requirements. In short, we will make every effort to get you on the trip you want, when you want.
If you opt to join our ‘fixed departure trip’, you are likely to be joining people from different countries of any age group except minors. The size of group varies: minimum no of persons required to operate a trip is 2, the maximum is 12 people
Personal expenses depend largely on the type of trek, duration and the trekking region.
If you are on Camping or Tea house trek all meals will be provided. You only need money for table drinks (alcoholic/non alcoholic beverages), snacks while walking (a few smaller shops are available along the trail in some areas) tips, souvenirs, hot shower (available in some places).
If you are on ‘GAP’ trek style you need to pay for all your meals. NPR 2000-2500 a day should be enough to cover your meals. We pay for your accommodation at mountain hut (tea house) along the trail and bear all the expenses of staff assigned by us.
Tips are appreciated by your support team after the trip. The amount depends on your budget and appreciation of their work. As a suggestion, we advise you to allocate 5 – 10% of the total tour cost as tips.
You will fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara and from Pokhara you further take a flight to Jomsom. The starting point of the trek is Jomsom. On your return, you shall fly from Jomsom to Pokhara. You can choose between flying or driving back from Pokhara to Kathmandu. We will arrange the transportation from your hotel to the airport (Kathmandu). There will be price reduction if you chose to travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara by private car or tourist bus.
While trekking in the remote parts, you may not have an access to telephone facility for some days or weeks. However, on your route there are few places where telephone facilities are likely to be working but sometimes they seem to be out of order. If it is crucial for you to keep in contact with your family or others, we can provide you a sim card or rental satellite phones if necessary.
You will need walking boots, sleeping bag (4 seasons/ -20C rated), waterproof jacket and trousers, fleece jacket, warm hat and gloves, sunglasses, water bottle, sun-screen and day pack.
Comprehensive list of gears will be provided once you book your trip or check CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT LIST LINK.
It’s not necessary to spend a lot of money buying extra equipment and clothing before your trip. Majority of these gears can be bought or hired at reasonable rates in Kathmandu.
TYPICAL DAY ON TREK
Each morning after packing our bags and having a good breakfast, we set off on the day’s walk. After walking for 3-4 hours we stop for lunch at around midday. Post-lunch walk is generally shorter and we usually arrive at our destination in time for afternoon tea. The remainder of the afternoon can be spent exploring the village, doing a bit of washing or simply relaxing with a good book. On some days we will arrive at our destination by lunchtime and the entire afternoon will be free. After dinner, the evening will often be spent playing cards and reliving the day’s adventures, before heading off to bed for a well-earned sleep.
However, on a camping trek, you begin your day with a hot cup of tea which will be served to you in the tent at 6 am, followed by a bowl of hot water for washing. Other day activities are the same as mentioned above.
The best seasons to trek in the Mustang region are Autumn (from mid-September till November end) and Spring (from the beginning of March until mid-May). Temperatures will drop considerably as you trek higher every day. The nights are cold (between -10 C to 5C) but the days are sunny and hot (between 10C to 30C) at high elevation area. The mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up during the afternoon, disappearing at night. March, April, October and November are the most popular and favored months for traveling. Mustang being located in the rain shadow area, it is possible to trek during early monsoon but flights between Pokhara and Jomsom are usually disturbed by heavy monsoon cloud. Trekking during the winter is also possible; however, it is much colder than Autumn and Spring.
Upper Mustang consists of two distinct regions: the south region with five villages inhabited by people related to the Mananges; and the northern region (the ancient kingdom of Lo), where the language, culture and traditions are almost purely Tibetan. Despite their isolation, the people of Lo are worldly, well traveled and resourceful. They are essentially Tibetans and are skillful traders, travelers and merchants. One hopes that they can retain their traditions under an influx of tourists, but they are by no means a primitive tribe that must be protected from outside influence. The people of Mustang are peace loving and generous. Buddhism has flourished here for a thousand years and has been the main religion of the people of Mustang ever since.
The main festival celebrated by the people of Mustang is the Tiji festival. It is a three-day ritual known as “The chasing of the Demons” that centers on the Tiji myth. The myth tells of a deity named Dorje Jono who defeats his demon father to save the Kingdom of Mustang from destruction. Tiji is a celebration and reaffirmation of this ancient myth. It also signifies the end of the dry winter/spring season and welcomes the monsoon season (the growing season for Mustang). Tiji comes from the word “ten che” meaing ‘the hope of Buddha Dharma prevailing in all worlds’ and is effectively a spring renewal festival.
The itineraries for each trip should be taken as a guideline only. Depending on the prevailing situation, you can modify it to some extent after consulting with your guide. However, the date of trek completion should always coincide with the original itinerary. You should keep in mind that this is an adventure trip into the remotest region, where many unforeseen events may contribute to the need for a change in itinerary. In such cases, we or your guide will suggest the best alternative similar to your original.
We ensure liability as per indicated itinerary and list of services. If the holiday is cut short or completed earlier than the projected period upon client’s wish, we shall not be responsible or make refund against unutilized days or services. Clients need to pay extra for hotels/services incurred in Kathmandu or elsewhere in such cases.
All visitors except the Indian nationals must hold passport and valid visa. Visa can be obtained at the Nepalese diplomatic missions and consulates abroad. Visa is also issued at the entry points. It can be extended at the Department of Immigration, Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu. Children under 10 years need not pay any visa fee. People willing to get entry Visa at the air port or any of the land entry points are required to fill a visa form with passport photograph. So, please download form from the link below (visa form) and get ready while you are passing through the immigration Point.
Gratis visa for 30 days available only for tourists of SAARC countries
Multiple entry 15 days – US$ 25 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 30 days – US$ 40 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 90 days – US$ 100 or equivalent convertible currency
Tourist Visa Extension
* Visa extension fee for 15 days or less is US $ 30 or equivalent convertible currency and visa extension fee for more than 15 days is US$ 2 per day
* Tourist visa can be extended for a maximum period of 150 days in a single visa year (January – December).
HEALTH ISSUES
VACCINATIONS
As vaccination requirements change frequently, we suggest you to consult your doctor at least 2 months prior to the beginning of your trip. We recommend protection against malaria, tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis and polio.
FIRST AID KIT
We supply a medical bag with standard medicines prescribed by trekking doctors. Since our staffs/guides are not qualified for suggesting medications to western clients, we would request you to use the medicines upon your own risk. It is safer and more reliable if you have your own medicine kit and not depend on what we have. We suggest that you take some pain-killing pills with you and enough medicine for cold, diarrhea, nausea and fever. Some nasal ointment and throat-moistening pills will greatly be of help for those who are sensitive to chilly or freezing weather conditions.
ALTITUDE
Altitude Sickness has the potential to affect all travelers from 2500m and higher, our itinerary is planned in such a way that you make very gradual ascent, spending some days at a low elevation to build necessary acclimatization before walking up to Nyi La (3840m), the highest point on this trek. If you have ever suffered from altitude sickness, or have a heart or breathing complaint, we highly recommend you consult your doctor about your suitability for trekking in high altitude areas before booking.
In case of a serious sickness or a casualty, which we believe will not happen; we will do everything to transfer you to the nearest hospital. Since you are entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in evacuation please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before assigning for it or be prepared to pay on your own after getting back to Kathmandu.
Before joining a tour, we recommend you to take a travel insurance which should cover cancellation, medical expenses, helicopter evacuation and emergency repatriation.
Environmental Responsibility
Wonderful environment of the Himalayas is also an extremely fragile one. Increasing population density and numbers of trekkers threaten the very beauty of Nepal. At Explore Himalaya, we are extremely conscious about the environment and aim to minimize our impact as much as possible.
As deforestation is one of the greatest environmental threats, we do not have camp fires and use kerosene for cooking as an alternative fuel to wood. We also discourage trekkers from using wood-fuelled hot showers in lodges along the way. Many lodges, however, now provide solar hot showers, a far more eco-friendly alternative.
Garbage disposal is another major problem and some of the busier trails can, at times, appear strewn with litter. Our staff members are well motivated towards eco-friendly practices. We carry out all our garbage, apart from that which can be safely and easily burnt at the campsite. Our aim is to help protect and preserve this beautiful environment for future generations of trekkers to enjoy.
Social Responsibility
Explore Himalaya works with the motto ‘Development through Tourism’. Keeping in line with this motto, Explore Himalaya Community Service Project (EHCSP) has been conceived to empower underprivileged, marginalized, poor and minority segments of Nepal.
Since its inception, EHCSP has been incessantly facilitating and advocating for school education, health, community development, forest conservation, agriculture, culture preservation and fund raising. Explore Himalaya encourages its clients to contribute for the development of Nepal.
In addition to your trek, we can organize extensions both within Nepal and other neighboring countries. You may want to try water rafting or a jungle safari in Nepal or Nepal Cultural Tour. You may as well take a trip to Tibet, India or Bhutan, whichever seems more appealing to you. Since the trek ends in Pokhara, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal, it would be nice and relaxing for you to spend a day or two taking in the sights and sounds of this scenic city.
Explore Himalaya works with the motto ‘Development through Tourism’. Keeping in line with this motto, Explore Himalaya Community Service Project (EHCSP) was conceived to empower underprivileged, marginalized, poor and minority segments of Nepal.
Since its inception, EHCSP has been incessantly facilitating and advocating for school education, health, community development, forest conservation, agriculture, culture preservation and fund raising. Explore Himalaya encourages its clients to contribute for the development of Nepal.
We ensure that all the porters and other staffs going into high altitude conditions are provided with adequate clothing and equipment. We are the first ever company to supply high-altitude porters with crampons.
We run the trek according to the guidelines of the International Porter Protection group (IPPG – www.ippg.net).
For more details on our responsible initiatives, please visit https://www.explorehimalaya.com/csr/
You need to pass on your International flight details to us for a ‘meeting and greeting’ service at the Airport. You just pass on the Customs and come out of the Terminal building where you will see someone standing with a placard with either ‘Explore Himalaya’ or your name written on it. Our airport representative or tour officer will greet you and welcome you with a floral garland.
1) It is fundamental you acknowledge that this is an adventure tour. This requires some flexibility. The day to day itinerary is taken only as a guideline. We cannot be held responsible for any delays caused by International or domestic flights, strikes, Government regulations, weather or natural casualties etc. In such cases, Explore Himalaya shall provide suitable alternatives which could be decided upon mutual agreement. If an agreement cannot be made, Explore Himalaya shall only be responsible for refunds after deducting the expenses already incurred.
2) Your booking will be confirmed by email once we receive your deposit of USD 500 and the signed copy of booking form and contract.
The balance is due no later than two months prior to departure. If you book a tour less than 2 months prior to departure, you must send the full payment within 7 days of confirmation by us.
3) If you cancel, the following scale of charges will apply:
2 months before departure – Loss of deposit (US$ 500)
29 days to 2 months before departure – 30% of total trip cost
10 to 28 days before departure – 60% of total trip cost
Less than 10 days before departure – 100% of total trip cost
BOOKING PROCEDURE
If you still have any questions regarding this trip, please feel free to contact us. We answer all enquiries within 24 hours. If you want to book a trip, you can e-mail us at enquiry@explorehimalaya.com or contact us directly by phone: 977-1-4518100.
Lodge trek with guide, accommodation & porters only (Standard rooms on sharing)
All meals during Teahouse trek only
Transfer from Kathmandu to Pokhara by private vehicles
Pokhara/Kathmandu Airfares
Pokhara/Jomsom/Pokhara Airfares
English speaking local expert guide, porters (2 members= 1 porter: 15 kg only per member)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit fees (ACAP)
Upper Mustang restricted area permit
3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (3*) on twin sharing with breakfast
2 night hotel accommodation in Pokhara (3*) on twin sharing with breakfast
Sightseeing tour with English Speaking local guide
Entrance fees to sightseeing monuments
Airport transfers and tour transfers in private vehicle
Insurance for all staff & porters
Equipment & clothing for all staff & porters
First aid kit (carried by guide)
For more information, please contact us at enquiry@explorehimalaya.com
Your Booking Of This Upper Mustang Trek Will Be Confirmed By Email Once We Receive Your Deposit Of $500 And The Signed Copy Of Booking Form And Contract. The Balance Is Due No Later Than Two Months Prior To Departure. If You Book A Tour Less Than 2 Months Prior To Departure, You Must Send The Full Payment Within 7 Days Of Confirmation By Us.
If You Cancel Your Booking, The Following Scale Of Charges Will Apply: 1. 2 Months Before Departure – Loss Of Deposit (US$ 500) 2. 29 Days To 2 Months Before Departure – 30% Of Total Trip Cost 3. 10 To 28 Days Before Departure – 60% Of Total Trip Cost 4. Less Than 10 Days Before Departure – 100% Of Total Trip Cost
In Addition To Your Upper Mustang Trek, We Can Organize Extensions Both Within Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan Etc. You May Want To Try Water Rafting Or A Jungle Safari In Nepal Or Nepal Cultural Tour. You May As Well Take A Trip To Tibet Or Bhutan, Whichever Seems More Appealing To You.
It Is Fundamental To Acknowledge That This Is An Adventure Tour. This Requires Some Flexibility. The Day To Day Itinerary Is Taken Only As A Guideline. We Cannot Be Held Responsible For Any Delays Caused By International Or Domestic Flights, Strikes, Government Regulations, Weather Or Natural Casualties Etc. In Such Cases, Explore Himalaya Shall Provide Suitable Alternatives Which Could Be Decided Upon Mutual Agreement. If An Agreement Cannot Be Made, Explore Himalaya Shall Only Be Responsible For Refunds After Deducting The Expenses Already Incurred. If You Have Any Questions Regarding This Trip, Please Feel Free To Contact Us At Enquiry@Explorehimalaya.Com Or Directly By Phone: 977-1-4518100. We Answer All Enquiries Within 24 Hours.
Moderate to fairly challenging
This is a long trek that goes right into remotest corner of high mountain country and over high
pass. Physically quite tiring, it involves approx 6-8 hours trekking along rocky ridges. No
previous experience is required, you should be moderately fit, used to some regular exercise and
enjoy walking in the high altitude conditions.
We offer several options regarding the organization of your trek:
1) Guide, Accommodation and Porter trek (GAP trek)
This is an abbreviation of Guide Accommodation and Porters (GAP). This option of the trek is
for those who want basic support from us. This is the most economic way to do trekking in
Nepal. We provide an English speaking local Sherpa guide, book and pay for the accommodation
in local lodges during trek and arrange required porters and trekkers pay for meals directly to the
local lodge owner. Expect to spend around $25 a day for food. Guide, accommodation and
porters are covered in the price.
Includes: Accommodation, guide and porters
Excludes: Food
2) Camping trek
On camping trek you will be sleeping and eating on tents. A trekking crew contains one sirdar,
one cook and a numbers of kitchen crew, Sherpa assistants and porters depending on the size of
the group. Under the leadership of the Sirdar (the local trek leader) the crew will ensure you take
the right path. The kitchen crew will keep you well fed with delicious and nutritious meals. The
porters shall transport the gear from camp to camp. Our main aim is to make the trek as hassle-
free and enjoyable as possible. Sirdar and his assistants speak basic English, good enough to
explain to you about the places, local culture or any sight that catches your eyes.
Includes: Guide, Porters, Cook, All meals and tents
3) Lodge or tea house trek
Although simple, the teahouses or lodges do provide shelter and warmth and are normally run by
friendly local families. The lodge or tea house treks are less expensive then camping trek and are
largely suitable for small group.
Includes: Accommodation in Lodge, guide, porters and all meals
YOUR TREK CAN BE ORGANIZED IN ALL THE 3 WAYS AS MENTIONED ABOVE.
ACCOMMODATION
Trekking in the Annapurna region does not need tremendous logistics in terms of
accommodation as you will find plenty of clean and friendly lodges along the trail. We stay in
single rooms where possible, but often you will have to share. Rooms are basic, normally just a
bed with a pillow and blankets. All lodges have spacious dining room-lounge. We will
accommodate you and your group in local lodge available each day. We send a porter ahead of
us to book the required rooms for the group (rooms cannot be booked in advance). Please
remember that some of them are very basic and a sense of adventure is necessary.
It is cheaper to stay in lodge rather than organizing a camping trek. Camping trek means sleeping
in tents. On a camping trek, the tents provided are ‘Two men dome’ or ‘A’ shaped. Foam
mattress with insulation underneath is provided for sleeping. Clients need to have their own
sleeping bag. Bags or cloth packs are used as pillows. If you wish, you can bring your own ‘Air
pillow’.
We have a pool of hotels in Kathmandu with 3 Star categories which we provide to clients in
connection to this itinerary, unless it is mentioned otherwise or clients have a special choice.
FOOD
Lodge Trek:
Meals are included in our price and are taken in Lodges available along the trail. You can find a
considerable variety of Nepali and Western food as well as drinks (coffee, tea, milk, soft drinks,
and beer).
Camping Trek:
Meals are prepared by our cook. We provide three tasty and nutritious meals daily along with
drinks.
GAP Trek:
You will have to make your own eating arrangements in the many Lodges available along the
trail. Expect to spend around $25 a day for food. Guide, accommodation and porters are covered
in the price.
WATER
On camping trek, our staff will boil water and cook meals treated by potassium permanganate or
iodine. On GAP trek and Lodge trek, you will be able to buy safe hot drinks in the tea house.
We recommend you to bring water purification pills.
LUGGAGE WHILE TREKKING
During trek your main luggage will be carried by porters or pack animals (usually yaks or cross
breeds). You simply carry a day pack with water bottle, camera, sun-screen, spare jacket, etc. – a
small load that allows full enjoyment of the trek. A trek bag is ideal for your main luggage, plus
a small lockable bag for travel clothes or anything that you do not need during trek which you
can leave at hotel’s locker room/safe deposit box in Kathmandu. Weight allowance at Nepal’s
domestic airlines is 15kgs, excess weight is chargeable at about USD 1.5 or more per Kilo
depending on sectors.
GROUP LEADER AND CREW
We provide different options concerning leadership in order to match your requirements:
1) Western leader
2) Trained Nepali Trek leader (experienced and knowledgeable)
3) Sherpa Guide (handles the logistics and guides you and your team on the trek)
The Sherpa guide (commonly called Sirdar) will be accompanied by a crew of porters. On
camping trek, there will be 2/3 porters for each members while on GAP and Lodge trek 1 porter
for 2 members.
JOIN A GROUP OR PRIVATE TRIP
Our trips are available on both fixed departure and private basis. If you are looking for a group to
join this trip please check our ‘2023/24 departures’ link for availability, dates and price. If you
would like to travel independently, or with your friends, families & colleagues you are invited to
choose any of the trips at your convenient timeframe for any number of people (minimum 1 &
maximum 100 at a time).
If you want to do something that is not included in our trip list we are ready to tailor a trip to suit
your exact requirements. In short, we will make every effort to get you on the trip you want,
when you want.
GROUP SIZE ON FIXED DEPARTURE TRIP
If you opt to join our ‘fixed departure trip’, you are likely to be joining people from different
countries of any age group except minors. The size of group varies, minimum no of persons
required to operate a trip is 2 and the maximum is 12 people.
PERSONAL EXPENSES
Lodge trek and Camping trek:
You only need money for table drinks (alcoholic/nonalcoholic beverages), snacks while walking,
tips, souvenirs, hot shower (available in some places).
GAP trek:
You need to pay for your meals and should expect to spend around $25 a day for your food and
snacks.
Tips are appreciated by your support team after the trip. The amount depends on your budget and
appreciation of their work. As a suggestion, we advise that you can allocate 5- 10 % of the total
tour cost as tips.
LAND TRANSFERS
You will fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara and take further flight to Jomsom. The starting point of
the trek is Jomsom. On your return, you shall fly from Jomsom to Pokhara. You can choose
between flying or driving back from Pokhara to Kathmandu. We will arrange the transportation
from your hotel to the airport (Kathmandu). There will be price reduction if you chose to travel
between Kathmandu and Pokhara by private car or tourist bus.
COMMUNICATION
For using internet, Wifi service is available in lower altitudes. You can also use Ncell and NTC
network (both for internet and mobile network) but they don’t work properly in some places as
you go higher. If it is crucial for you to keep in contact with your family or others, we can
provide you a mobile satellite phone (rental charge on request).
TREKKING GEARS & EQUIPMENT
You will need walking boots, sleeping bag (4 seasons/ -20C rated), waterproof jacket and
trousers, fleece jacket, warm hat and gloves, sunglasses, water bottle, sun-screen and day
pack. Comprehensive list of equipment will be provided once you book your trip. It's not
necessary to spend a lot of money buying extra equipment and clothing before your trip.
Majority of these gears can be bought or hired at reasonable rates in Kathmandu.
TYPICAL DAY ON TREK
Lodge/ Tea House Trek, GAP Trek & Camping Trek
Each morning after packing our bags and having a good breakfast, we set off on the day walk.
After walking for 3-4 hours we stop for lunch at around midday. The afternoon walk is
generally shorter and we usually arrive at our destination in time for afternoon tea. The
remainder of the afternoon can be spent exploring the village, doing a bit of washing or simply
relaxing with a good book. On some days we will arrive at our destination by lunchtime and the
entire afternoon will be free. After dinner, the evening will often be spent playing cards and
reliving the day’s adventures, before heading off to bed for a well-earned sleep.
However, on a camping trek, you begin your day with a hot cup of tea which will be served to
you in the tent at 6 am, followed by a bowl of hot water for washing. Other day activities are the
same as mentioned above.
MEETING AND GREETING IN KATHMANDU
You need to pass on your International flight details to us for a “meeting and greeting” service at
airport. You just pass on the Customs and come out of the Terminal building where you will see
someone standing with a placard with either ‘Explore Himalaya’ or your name written on it. Our
airport representative or tour officer will greet you and welcome you with a garland.
ITINERARY CHANGES
The itineraries for each trip should be taken as a guideline only. Depending on the prevailing
situation, you can modify it to some extent after consulting with your guide. However, the date
of trek completion should always coincide with the original itinerary. You should keep in mind
that this is an adventure trip into the remotest region, where many unforeseen events may
contribute to the need for a change in itinerary. In such cases, we or your guide will suggest the
best alternative similar to your original.
TREK DURATION
We ensure liability as indicated in itinerary and list of services. If the holiday is cut short or
completed earlier than the projected period upon client’s wish, we shall not be responsible or
make refund against un-utilized days or services. Clients need to pay for Hotels/services incurred
in Kathmandu or elsewhere in such cases.
TRIP EXTENSIONS
In addition to your trek, we can organize extensions both within Nepal and other neighboring
countries. You may want to try water rafting or a jungle safari in Nepal or Nepal Cultural Tour.
You may as well take a trip to Tibet, India or Bhutan, whichever seems more appealing to you..
VISA
All visitors except the Indian nationals must hold passport and valid visa. Visa can be obtained at
the Nepalese diplomatic missions and consulates abroad. You can also get “On Arrival Visa” at
entry points. Some countries’ nationals need to get visa prior their arrival. Please check
http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/page/tourist-visa for detailed information.
Visa can be extended at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Children
under 10 years need not pay any visa fee.
HEALTH ISSUES AND VACCINATIONS
As vaccination requirements change frequently, we suggest you to consult your doctor at least 2
months prior to the beginning of your trip. We recommend protection against malaria, tetanus,
typhoid, hepatitis and polio.
The main health consideration in high altitude is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Altitude
Sickness has the potential to affect all travelers from 2500m and higher. However, our itinerary
is planned in such a way that you make very gradual ascent, spending some days at a low
elevation to build necessary acclimatization before walking up. Initially you may experience
some mild symptoms initially, such as headache, lethargy, nausea and difficulty sleeping, but
these should lessen within a few days. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), people take
pills called ‘Diamox’. You can also use these pills after consulting with your doctor and purchase
them in Kathmandu. Our itinerary will allow your body to acclimatize properly and handle the
low oxygen rate.
If you have ever suffered from altitude sickness, or have a heart or breathing complaint, we
highly recommend you consult your doctor about your suitability for trekking in high altitude
areas before booking. We suggest that you take some pain-killing pills with you and enough
medicine for cold, diarrhea, nausea and fever. Some nasal ointment and throat-moistening pills
will greatly help for those who are sensitive to chilly or freezing weather conditions.
FIRST AID KIT
We supply a medical bag with standard medicines prescribed by trekking doctors and a user’s
manual. Since our staffs/guides are not qualified for suggesting medications to western clients,
we would request you to use the medicines upon your own risk. It is safer and more reliable if
you have your own medicine kit and not depend on what we have.
RESCUE / EVACUATIONS
In case of a serious sickness or a casualty, which we believe will not happen; we will do
everything to transfer you to the nearest hospital. Since you are entirely liable for all the
expenses incurred in evacuation, please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before
assigning for it or be prepared to pay on your own after getting back to Kathmandu
INSURANCE
Before joining a tour, we recommend you to take a travel insurance which should cover
cancellation, medical expenses, helicopter evacuation and emergency repatriation.
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
Environmental Responsibility
Wonderful environment of the Himalayas is also an extremely fragile one. Increasing population
density and numbers of trekkers threaten the very beauty of Nepal. At Explore Himalaya, we are
extremely conscious about the environment and aim to minimize our impact as much as possible.
As deforestation is one of the greatest environmental threats, we do not have camp fires and use
kerosene for cooking as an alternative fuel to wood. We also discourage trekkers from using
wood-fueled hot showers in lodges along the way. Many lodges, however, now provide solar
hot showers, a far more eco-friendly alternative.
Garbage disposal is another major problem and some of the busier trails can, at times, appear
strewn with litter. Our staff members are well motivated towards eco-friendly practices. We
carry out all our garbage, apart from that which can be safely and easily burnt at the campsite.
Our aim is to help protect and preserve this beautiful environment for future generations of
trekkers to enjoy.
Social Responsibility
Explore Himalaya works with the motto ‘Development through Tourism’. Keeping in line with
this motto, Explore Himalaya Community Service Project (EHCSP) has been conceived to
empower underprivileged, marginalized, poor and minority segments of Nepal.
Since its inception, EHCSP has been incessantly facilitating and advocating for school education,
health, community development, forest conservation, agriculture and culture preservation.
Explore Himalaya encourages its clients to contribute for the development of Nepal.
Care for Porters and Staff
We ensure that all the porters and other staffs going into high altitude conditions are provided
with adequate clothing and equipment. We are the first ever company to supply high-altitude
porters with crampons. We run the trek according to the guidelines of the International Porter
Protection group (IPPG – www.ippg.net).
For more details on our responsible initiatives, please visit
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