The FORBIDDEN KINGDOM of MUSTANG - CONTACT US
16 days - A superb trek into a fascinating Tibetan Buddhist enclave - The spectacular fortified city of Lo Manthang - Uniquely colourful landscape - Easy-paced itinerary at modest altitude
Situated at the head of the Kali Gandaki in north central Nepal, the little-known district of Mustang is physically and culturally a part of Tibet. Accessed via the airstrip at Jomsom, the strangely eroded landscape of this remote territory presents a vibrant mosaic of earth colours - reds, yellows, browns and blues. Set within this riot of colour and with a back-drop of distant snowy peaks, the numerous picturesque, white painted villages and monasteries are a visual delight. Mustang prospered at the height of the salt trade between Tibet and Nepal, a fact which is borne out by the impressive and still functioning inns that we encounter on our route. Following the drovers' trail through the heart of the kingdom and crossing passes of up to 4000 metres, we visit many of the principal villages and have a day to explore the ancient capital, the distinctive walled town of Lo Manthang.
DURATION: 4 nights hotels & lodges, 10 nights camping, 10 days MODERATE trekking, max. altitude - 4000m. All meals included.
Brief Trip Outline & Notes
Day 1. Depart UK.
Day 2. Arrive Kathmandu. Transfer to Vaishali Hotel in Thamel. (Land only clients join at hotel).
Day 3. Fly to Lukla (2800m). Trek to Phakding our first camping spot. 2 hours.
Days 4-5. Trek to and rest day in Namche Bazaar (3400m).
Days 6-8. Trek to Thyangboche and onto Dingboche. Rest day at Dingboche.
Day 9. Trek up to a wild campsite high above the Imja Valley at an altitude of 5030 metres.
Day 10. A short day today as we trek to our base camp for Pokalde Peak.
Day 11. Climb Pokalde and descend to Lobuche.
Day 12. Trek to Gorak Shep. Option to ascend Kala Patar (5600m) or continue up to Everest Basecamp (5200m).
Days 13. Early start, especially for those who want make a sunrise ascent of Kala Patar. Retrace steps back down Khumbu Valley to Pangboche.
Day 14-15. Continue down Khumbu Valley to Monjo where we camp and then onto Lukla.
Day 16. Fly to Kathmandu. Check into Vaishali Hotel. Rest of day free to relax.
Day 17. Free day in Kathmandu. Optional sightseeing tour of Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple), the Buddhist stupa Bodnath and the Hindu temple complex of Pashupatinath.
Day 18. Depart Kathmandu and arrive UK later same day. (Land only clients depart).
