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Upper Mustang Circuit Trek with Yara Ghara
Kathmandu, Pokhara, Kagbeni, Lomanthang, Yara Gaun, Ghara, Tengbe, Tetang, Muktinath, Jomsom
Travel Styles -
Eco-Friendly
Active Adventures
Country
Nepal
Duration
16 Days
Best Season
Mar - June / Oct-Nov
Group
Private
Max Altitude
12,467 ft./ 3,800 m.
Accommodation
Hotel and Lodge
Transportation
Flight / Private Vehicle
Grade
Moderate
Overview
Discovering the secrets of Tibetan village of upper mustang.
Somewhere in the Midwestern Himalayas of Nepal exist two small villages that feels so mysterious so out of this world. The ultimate gateway to the mysterious world of the vanishing mountains, while discovering the mysterious culture of Yara and Ghara village. The place where matriarch is still in practice. This may be the last generation of Yara and Ghara village who run through matriarch. In today’s modern world were we search for sophisticated luxury, this trek take you behind the times.
Once forbidden and isolated from the rest of the world for decades, the area was able to evolve within its own distinctive culture and rich traditions closely tied to Tibet. This moderate, lesser-known trek passes through one of the driest regions of Nepal. This trek offers spectacular mountain scenery vanishing cultures while discovering the mystery of Tibetan village at Himalayas of Upper Mustang.
The hidden village of Yara Ghara is home to 200 people where they have their small world. Hiking through such region of Upper Mustang you will discover how simple and limited things are needed for human survival. This inaccessible trans-Himalayan mountain region in the past, which borders Tibet, has a distinctly Tibetan feel to it in terms of both its people and culture as well as its arid landscape of cliffs and unusual shape and color of rocks.
The trek starts at Kagbeni, the entrance to Upper Mustang, before continuing through a desolate landscape of the forbidden kingdom of Lo with the view of Dhaulagiri massif. Lo-Manthang, the seat of previous kings of the Kingdom of Lo. Explore the caves, natural rock art, monasteries, and Gompas to learn more about the local culture. The multi storey caves of Yara were chiseled by hand, by the very first settlers of the region thousand years ago. Gyakar Gompa the renowned Gompa, is a short distance from Lo Manthang. But now that there are roads connecting the areas of Lo Manthang, trekkers have recently had to navigate numerous jeep trails.
General idea about trek
The regions of upper mustang holds lots of monasteries and many chortens reflecting a lot about culture and tradition of Buddhism. While on trek you will come across many monks and monasteries. Your day starts at one of the best available guest house followed by magnificent views. After breakfast you will start your day. There are many caves which are manmade any you will visit few of them during your trekking.
Walking through arid and dry landscape a small surprise of greenery will always be there to welcome you. The green farms of apple, pears will amaze you as stated above the dry land holding such greenery. Despite of trail being pristine you will see the dependency on smart phones of the locals. You will be surprised that payments can be made through QR code only in some places though. Some days in trek you won’t even cross path with single individuals other than your group. Whereas the other days you will have plenty of time and local people to interact with while trekking.
However this trekking experience will take you to one of the ancient salt trade route via Yara, Ghara, Tangbe and other places.
Trekking to village of Yara and Ghara is more like off beaten trail. The pristine land has a lot to offer. The beautiful landscapes, the influenced Tibetan culture of the place. The land feels like piece of heaven on earth. The trekking in this unspoiled land is offers the vibes of peace and tranquility. The desert kind of land is unmarked and people can get lost too. The marking is sort of long standing flags and the trail itself. The rocky mountain dessert trail is not that difficult yet mentally challenging as you ascend and descend and it’s on loop. You can see less amount of cultivated land in small and scattered village where traditional Chortens and Mani walls which reflect faith in Buddhism.
During evening you will enjoy the amazing views with hot beverages. You can interact with locals and get some insight of their life style. You can try some locally brewed alcohol, local dress and even buy some locally made scarfs (from wools made of sheep, yaks and other livestock) and some small souvenirs made by locals with locally available materials.
Required Permit:-
- Restricted area permit that cost you around $50 per person per day.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP).
What to Expect
- Isolated old Kingdom of Lo.
- Breathtaking region offering unique combination of nature, culture reflecting Tibetan Buddhism.
- Well experienced guide and porters for visitors.
- Best of available accommodation
- Abundant flora and fauna of unique region
- Beautiful community that values Buddhist culture and faith.
- Peace and serenity of the magnificent place.
Best Season
Mustang is a destination that have favorable conditions for visiting year-round. However, if you wish to experience the most breathtaking views and explore the local towns in ideal weather, the best months to visit Mustang are from March to May and September to November. Interestingly, thanks to its location in the rain shadow area of the Himalayas, Mustang also presents a unique and appealing opportunity for travelers during the monsoon season.
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Itinerary
Daily Schedule
Show detailed Itinerary
Day
1
Arrival at Kathmandu (Elevation 1350 m.)
Accomodation:
Hotel
Transport:
Private Vehicle
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu you will be greeted by representative from our company who will then escort you to your hotel. During evening a short briefing will be done and some insights about the trip will be provided.
Day
2
Flight to Pokhara (Elevation 820m).
Accomodation:
Hotel
Meals:
Breakfast.
Transport:
Private Vehicle / Flight
The day is set aside for obtaining the permits as once all paperwork is completed you will catch a 30 minutes flight to Pokhara. The rest of the day will be spent by either relaxing by the lake or hotel at Pokhara.
Day
3
Fly Jomsom and trek to Kagbeni (Elevation 2804 m.) - 4 hours walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
Transport:
Flight
A breathtaking 16-minutes flight over towering peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains takes you to Jomsom, the district headquarter of Jomsom. Jomsom once was hub for the Trans-Himalayan salt trade route from Tibet. The small town is situated alongside of Kaligandaki River. Despite of having windy afternoon we will continue the path leading to Kagbeni.
Day
4
Trek from Kagbeni to Chele ( Elevation 3070m) - 5 hours walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
Today's journey begins with a special permit checkup and a stroll along the Kaligandaki River with scenic rest stops along the sand- and wind-filled trails. This path goes uphill and downhill. First, we arrive in Tangbe village, a place of whitewashed houses, buckwheat, barley, and wheat fields, as well as apple orchards. We continue our trek to Chhusang from there. After easy hike for hour we reach Chele.
Day
5
Trek from Chele to Syangboche (Elevation 3475m.) - 6 hours walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, we travel to Eklo Bhatti via Taklam La Pass (3,624m/11,923 ft.), traversing plateaus and confined passageways with views of Yakawa Kang and Damodar Danda. Continue descending a little more to reach Samar village. The same route takes us to Syangboche in another three hours. We unwind as we travel along the cool streams and juniper trees in the area. Dried juniper leaves are used by locals as incense to call on deities and begin any auspicious work. We also pass by Ramchung Cave, a well-known cave.
Day
6
Trek from Syangboche to Ghami (Elevation 3520m) - 5/6 hours walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
We hike uphill to the Yamda La (3,850m/12,667ft) after breakfast, passing a few teahouses, chortens, and local villages with Tibetan-style homes and open Verandas. We travel through barley fields, a poplar tree avenue, and mountain passes. It would take a little longer to ascend to Nyi Pass (4,010m/13,193ft), though. Descend to Ghami, where we will spend the night. Ghami, the third-largest village in the Lo region, is encircled by sizable fields, the majority of which are bare.
Day
7
Trek from Ghami to Ghar Gompa to Lo Manthang (Elevation 3800m.) - 5/6 hours walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast Lunch and Dinner
We hike to the breathtaking Lo Manthang today. The oldest monastery in Nepal is Ghar Ghompa. We encounter the remote village of Dhakmar while hiking. The trail ascends steeply after crossing the river and features stunning scenery. It is more of an off-the-beaten-path descent to Charang. The trail continues to gently ascend to the windy Lo Pass at 3,850 meters, where you can see the Lo Manthang Valley. Views of the walled city on the Tibetan Border with its hills look magnificent as you descend to Lo Manthang. For the duration of the stop, we stay in a hotel.
Day
8
Trek from Explore Kingdom of Lo Manthang (Elevation 3800m).
Accomodation:
Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast Lunch and Dinner.
After breakfast today, we will stroll back to the hotel after visiting three monasteries, including Chode Gompa, Jampa Monastery, and Thupchen Gompa of Lo-Mangthang. The Tall Champed Lakhang "God house," the red Thugchen Gompa, Chyodi Gompa, and the Entrance Hall, which are this town's main attractions, may be another choice for you to make. The four-story royal palace building and the surrounding panoramic views of the Himalaya are additional draws. One of upper Mustang Nepal's most incredible caves is the Jhong cave in Chooser. Archaeologists from all over the world are interested in learning more about the secrets of the sky caves in Nepal. They are very interested in learning more about the upper Mustang region's mysterious caves. There are many man-made caves with multiple stories. The practice of sky burial is still prevalent here. (Recommended: You either take a jeep or horse while exploring areas of Chooser as you won’t miss a lot and taking jeep is more economical and safe.)
Day
9
Trek to Yara (Elevation 3607m.) - 5-6 hours walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast Lunch and Dinner.
Today’s trail leads to long forbidden kingdom in remote land of spectacular Tibetan influenced monasteries, canyons, gorges that boarders Tibet. The six hour journey by foot crossing bridge and Dhigaun and Surkhang village. After lunch stop and some rest at Dhi village which is full of farming fields we go along path on the bank of river and reach Yara.
Day
10
Trek to Tengbe (Elevation 3240m) - 6-7 hours walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast Lunch and Dinner.
The trek today starts from descending from Yara in arid landscape with amazing scenery. The Tibetan culture and some ancient monastery can be some of the attraction of the area. After crossing Dhechyang khola with eye popping views you could find Shaligram (Ammonoid Fossil) black colored stone. The fossil has important importance on Hindu religion as people pray and worship the stone reflecting lord Shiva. Trek in this restricted area of Nepal really gives you an amazing experience.
Day
11
Trek to Tetang (Elevation 3067m.) - 9 hours walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast Lunch and Dinner.
Today after breakfast we will be climbing some step and after crossing suspension bridge we soon reach Yak River. The trail is accompanied by breathtaking views and different shapes of cloud. We then reach terraced hill at 4310m, which is one of the highest point in trail. We are now go along with the views of Damador Himal and Saribung peak both at tentative elevation of 6346m. Descending the hill with view of Chusang village we will be staying at Tetang.
Day
12
Trek to Muktinath (Elevation 3800m) - 8 hours walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge.
Meals:
Breakfast Lunch and Dinner.
Today will be the one of the most beautiful days of your trek as we cross the peaceful pass of Gyu la at elevation of 4077m. The trail is easy and has lovely view and the place is very peaceful and you might feel like stopping for a while. You can do that remembering the glorious trekking days of past at restricted areas of Nepal. Today we are accompanied by panoramic views of Thorong peak, Nigiri, Tukuche peak and amazing Muktinath temple and its valley. The temple has different vibe as Buddhist people along with Hindu people pray at same place. This shows religious harmony amongst two religion.
Day
13
Trek to Jomsom (Elevation 2720m.) - 5 hours walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast Lunch and Dinner.
Today following the downhill trail beside Kaligandagi River we reach Jomsom. The place is very windy strong breeze hitting your face while reaching Jomsom. You can chill at hotel or stroll around streets later in evening.
Day
14
Fly/ Drive back Pokhara (Elevation 820m).
Accomodation:
Hotel
Meals:
Breakfast
Transport:
16 minutes /6-7 hours drive.
Today, after gathering all of our trek memories at the Jomsom airport, we fly back to Pokhara. If there are any difficulties, such as weather problems, we return to Pokhara while enjoying the winding roads that lead there.
Day
15
Fly back Kathmandu (Elevation 1350 m.)
Accomodation:
Hotel
Meals:
Breakfast
Transport:
Flight/Private Vehicle
You can return to Kathmandu after a 30-minute flight from Pokhara. You can make the most of your remaining time in Kathmandu by shopping for gifts or other items for yourself and your loved ones back home.
Day
16
Final Departure.
Meals:
Breakfast
Transport:
Private Vehicle
You will be driven in a private vehicle by one of our representatives to the international terminal.
Availability
Inclusions
- International & domestic airport transfers as per the itinerary.
- 2 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis on BB plan.
- 2 nights hotel accommodation in Pokhara on twin sharing basis on BB plan.
- Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu flight.
- Pokhara - Jomsom - Pokhara flight.
- 3 meals a day during the trekking (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) as mention in itinerary.
- Accommodation while trekking in twin sharing basis in tea houses.
- Annapurna conservation area permit and TIMS card.
- Upper Mustang Restricated area permit fee.
- Professional government lisence holder trekking guide.
- The required number of porters to carry the luggage during the trek (We assign one porter for every two guests).
- Sleeping bag and duffel bag during the trek. (Refundable after finish trekking)
- A comprehensive medical kits.
Excludes
- International air fare to/ from Nepal.
- Entry Visa fees - at present $30 for 15 day, US$ 50 for 30 day, and US$ 125 for three month visa on entry into Nepal.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Insurance which covers, medical, emergency evacuation, lost, etc.
- Beverages, alcoholic drinks, mineral water, boiled water during the trekking.
- All food and beverages other than on the itinerary.
- Local monastery entrance fees in Mustang.
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
- Personal gear and expenses.
- Tips and gratitude provided to staff.
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Foods
Within urban areas, you'll encounter place, offering choices from local to continental, Asian, and beyond. Various restaurants are accessible. However, it's crucial to be aware that the flavors may differ from what you're accustomed to. Conversely, when journeying through mountain regions, your dining options will be more limited. You'll find yourself pampering with local foods such as momo, dal bhat, parathas, fried rice, and more. These dishes are made using locally sourced ingredients and skillfully prepared by the hands of local. In villages like Yara and Ghara you will have very limited choice or no choice at all. However you will love local food whatever they offer.
Accommodation
Typically our offering in urban areas includes bed and breakfast accommodations. During the tour, we extend our services to a full board plan, including both lodging and meals. We make an effort to provide rooms with attached baths in most locations. However, the specific room allocated is contingent on your group size, budget, and availability in each area.
For families traveling with you, we prioritize family-friendly rooms. In urban settings, we ensure stays in three-star category hotels, while in rural areas, we secure the best available lodging options. Nevertheless, you uphold the authority to select your preferred accommodations, though it's important to note that pricing may vary accordingly.
Trek Route
Well starting from Kathmandu, by air or by road you will start you trekking from a place called Jomsom, a small town of Mustang. The place also holds domestic airport. First few days your route navigates through both jeep trails and trekking trails. Upon reaching Lo Manthang, trail leading to Yara and Ghara is off the beaten path. You won’t find many settlements or teahouses as well as shed of the herders.
Most days you will be trekking through both jeep as well as trekking trails. Along the way you will come across many chortens, Mani walls, caves as well as monasteries. You will visit many monasteries that come across your way. While trekking through this route, some days are very interesting, some days are lively, some days you have to walk long hours as well.
Tangbe village, a place where you come across whitewashed houses, fields of buckwheat, barley, and wheat. More interesting is apple orchards a small area of green garden in such dry and arid landscape. You will see dried junipers leaves as incense used to call deities on auspicious work. You will also visit Ramchung cave on the way.
Faqs
What is the Physical requirement for Upper Mustang Trek?
Upper Mustang Trek is suitable for all kind of people who are moderately fit, not any previous adventures experience is required. Some physical fitness activities such as running, swimming and walking are recommended before your Mustang trek. Persons suffering from a pre-existing medical flaws must seek medical advice before considering the trek. Whilst on the trek, it is common to experience some discomfort before being fully acclimatized.
How is the shower facilities during the trek?
Normally there are hot water shower services in various teahouses and lodges. In the absence of such facility, the teahouse/lodges will provide you hot water bucket. The payment for the shower has to be made by yourself and the cost varies with the places.
Are there porters or yaks carrying the luggage or should we carry it on our own?
Whilst on the trek, our porters who are honest and experienced, will take care of your luggage. All you need to carry is your small day bag for your personal belongings like camera, water bottle, sun cream, money etc. Normally, we assign one porters to carry the luggage of two trekkers.
How much additional money do I need per day?
In Kathmandu, you can allocate $ 10-15 for lunch and dinner. It all depends on your spending habits. $. 15- 20 a day will be enough to buy bottles of water, chocolate and few drinks in Trekking.
How is the drinking water facility during the trek? Should I bring water purifiers?
In most places bottled water is readily available. If you wish to drink normal water, you need to use purifying aid, better if you have some for yourself.
What are the facilities available in case of emergencies during the trek?
In case you suffer from altitude sickness or any other problems, we will offer you the doctor’s prescribed medicines according to the type of problem facing you. We will descend you and incase of extreme cases, you will get rescued by the helicopter.
Why is the travel insurance compulsory?
In case of any casualties, travel insurance will be a boon to recover the incurred expenses. In case of helicopter rescue, the helicopter charge, which is little expensive, can also be recovered by your insurance. So it a good act to check you insurance validity and policy, whether it recovers the rescue charges or not.
Are Global Holidays Adventure's staffs insured?
Yes, all the staffs of Global Holidays Adventure including guides and porters are insured to recover any kinds of casualties.
How tough is Yara Ghara trek?
Usually, the trek considered as moderate level of trekking. Hiking through regions of Upper Mustang is not that tough but in some areas you will have to walk long hours and hike through few passes.
What are the chances of AMS during the trekking?
There is a risk of AMS during trekking but ensuring proper acclimatization AMS can be avoided. However we provide you an experienced guide who knows how to handle emergency situation in mountain region.
What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?
Symptoms of AMS usually become noticeable at altitudes exceeding 3000 meters. These symptoms encompass headaches, fatigue, dizziness, sleep difficulties, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath, a rapid heartbeat, and loss of appetite. AMS is a condition that should not be taken lightly, and in certain instances, it can even prove fatal. If you happen to experience any of these symptoms associated with AMS, it is crucial to promptly descend to a lower altitude for your safety.
Are there facility to use ATM or credit cards?
There are facility of ATM at Jomsom but do not rely on them. You can find very few places accepting QR payments. We suggest to carry some cash in order to pay for your personal expenses.
What kind of temperature and weather can be expected during the trip?
Weather in the mountains is notoriously difficult to predict. Generally, nights are chillingly cold, whereas, the days are warmer. The temperature inside the teahouses/lodges are fairly maintained. You can always sit beside a fire to keep yourself warmer. The temperature could be as high as 20 degree c to 15 degree c low during the day time
Travellers Reviews
N
Neil B
sydney, Australia
Best experience possible !
Every step with Global Holidays was professional, courteous and friendly. We chatted and spoke on WhatsApp many times before the trek and had a huge degree of comfort with all arrangements. Our guide was delightful and is now someone we love and count as a friend. An ex-monk, he knows the Upper Mustang area like the back of his hand. When trek details had to be varied (for illness or other reasons), it was always easy and we always felt fully supported. I sincerely doubt there is any better team to attempt a hard, remote trek with than Global Holidays. They’re awesome and always have your best interests in mind. Book them!
P
Paolo
Brussels, Belgium
UPPER MUSTANG TREK & TIJI FESTIVAL
In June we came back from our unforgettable trip to Nepal. It was my second trek in this amazing country. Our trek was organized by Global Holidays Adventure. We found them through google search and from the very first email exchange with Samsher we were convinced that we picked the right company. We always had very fast answer to all our multiple questions and all organizational problems have been solved brilliantly. The Trek was quite hard, very well organized and everything was perfect, also the weather. Special Thanks to our 2 brothers Sherpas, Dorchi and Chopel , always smiling and very collaborative: they also gave us a lot of information about the places, the monasteries and Buddhism in general. Thank you all. We will turn to Global Holidays Adventure again for an upcoming trek in Nepal !
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$2,150 /person
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