The upper Mustang trek is categorized as a moderately difficult trek. The trek offers a breathtaking view of the snow-capped Himalayas, deep valleys, and rich culture and heritage along the route. The upper Mustang trek is perfect for anyone searching for an amazing experience in Nepal.
The upper Mustang trek caters to adventurers of all skill levels, including families with young children and elderly people. Trekking gets difficult for novices elderly and children since it requires extended walking distances, sharp elevation changes, and erratic weather. hence the trek pushes the boundaries and demands mental fortitude, physical stamina, and high-altitude acclimation.
The trail and route to the Upper Mustang are wide enough for vehicles like jeeps and trucks to pass but some routes are very narrow only allowing a single human to pass. on this route. since this desert-like terrain is mostly on level ground, there are no significant hills to climb or descend.
The upper Mustang trek might be a strenuous journey at times but the beautiful natural scenery of tall and beautiful mountains, beautiful deep valleys, and rich culture and tradition make it up to the challenge. Since the upper Mustang region borders Tibet the culture and tradition of this region are highly influenced by Tibetan cultural heritage which further broadens the horizon of your knowledge on religion and culture as you can experience Tibetan artwork, culture, and way of life of the Himalayan mountain people which will relieve your fatigue and create a pleasant environment.
Challenges of Upper Mustang Trek
We’ve listed some challenges you might face on the upper Mustang trek. so make sure you read until the end to know more!
High altitude
Although the Upper Mustang trek is a moderately steep ascend the altitude might still be an obstacle to some individuals. The fairly easy altitude which is below 4000m is an easy trek than its counterparts. Even the highest altitude one has to ascend is 3800 meters above sea level at Lo man thang. But even such elevation can trigger the illness known as altitude sickness. Altitude sickness can happen at elevations higher than 2500 meters above sea level. As altitude rises, the amount of oxygen decreases, making breathing more difficult which will leave a bitter trekking experience.
Nonetheless, symptoms of altitude sickness are visible above 2500 meters. You won’t experience altitude sickness while hiking through its lower regions as it isn’t that challenging from a height standpoint. However, the same thing cannot be said about the Upper Mustang region.
Terrain and trails
Like other treks in the Himalayas, the Upper Mustang Trek has its challenges and terrain is one of them. However, compared to other trekking regions in Nepal, the Upper Mustang region’s ascends and descends are not as steep. Most hiking paths are fairly spacious except for some paths which are narrow and difficult. You will travel across the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge along the route which is one of the narrow and difficult paths. Visibility might be a problem at certain times as the path is dusty and the windy weather makes it impossible to see the path. In addition, the paths may become blocked by snow throughout the winter when temperatures drop below freezing during which the upper Mustang trek route is nearly impossible and not advisable to trek.
If you’ve done similar journeys before the upper Mustang this route will be a piece of cake for you because trekking in the Mardi Himal, Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani Poonhill, Bhimtang Valley, and any other trekking below 4000 meters are somewhat similar to the Upper Mustang trek. Furthermore, adventure freaks can ask your guide to take you down uncharted territory for more thrill and adventure but make sure your guide is qualified and licensed. For less strenuous treks, planning for the journey is highly recommended.
Walking hours
Upper Mustang is about three thousand meters above sea level, so you’ll be trekking a good distance on a challenging uphill and downhill route. Trekkers may find the walking hours challenging as they might have to walk five to seven hours a day which will vary depending on the distance you have to cover. However, Walking five to seven hours a day for several days slowly starts to take a toll on the body. This might be easy for seasoned trekkers but novices will have a tough journey through this lengthy route.
Physical discomfort may make you want to give up, but once the suffering is over, you will be rewarded with the breathtaking beauty of the majestic Himalayas, deep valleys, and rich culture and tradition making the journey there worthwhile. Also, trekkers wishing to intensify their Upper Mustang trek may choose routes that incorporate passes such as Mesokanto La Pass, Marang La, or the Annapurna Circuit Thorong Pass.
Remoteness
Remoteness might be a problem but it is not a big issue or a primary problem on the upper Mustang trek. Despite the area’s remoteness, basic amenities such as accommodation with hygienic rooms and dining facilities, tea shops, and other services are present. In addition, restaurants and bars are also present in a number of the communities along the route. Hence, services offered in these locations are satisfactory when altitude is considered. In the majority of the Upper Mustang, your mobile networking service would function properly. Whereas some locations even provide wifi. However, you shouldn’t anticipate any lavish experiences or luxuries here, as the locals value and uphold their culture and customs without any mixture of Western cultural aspects because their genuine way of life has not changed.
Seasons and weather conditions
Weather is another challenge of the upper Mustang trek. But geographically since Mustang is situated in a rain shadow area the rainfall is minimal and it stays dry for the majority of the year. Furthermore, typical windy conditions are what you should expect whenever you visit Mustang; the windiest months are April and May. The constant wind might make the journey to the Upper Mustang challenging for trekkers. But some people might find the windy weather soothing and exciting.
The Upper Mustang trek is best enjoyed in the autumn and spring whereas the Trek to Upper Mustang during the monsoon season is also considered ideal due to fewer tourists trekking the region. But one must prepare well as the weather might get unfavorable during the monsoon season and most of the Nepal Himalayas are covered in clouds during the monsoon, especially in lower regions. Traveling into upper Mustang during the winter will be more difficult and is not advisable. The temperature might drop down to as low as minus ten degrees Celsius during the daytime and minus twenty-five degrees Celsius during the nighttime. Due to the snowfall during the winter season, the route is filled with snow and the visibility is also compromised making navigation near to impossible.
Bonus tip to conquer the Upper Mustang trek
Upper Mustang is a trek of intermediate difficulty. Unlike other high-altitude climbs, this one is not as challenging or strenuous. Therefore, both rookie and experienced trekkers can complete it. However, it is crucial to be in good health and physical condition to trek any location beyond 2500 meters. When trekking, your level of physical and mental fitness is the most important thing to watch out for. In case you are not in good physical or mental health, the trek might be more hazardous. Likewise, it’s advised to engage in early physical activity and training to improve your cardiovascular ability. Trekkers must engage in physical activities like running, jogging, swimming, and cycling. But at least a minimum of 5 km walk in 30 minutes or less is recommended before you begin your Upper Mustang trek.
The Upper Mustang trek might not be a difficult journey but it surely is a challenging one. Hence, any individual with a pre-existing medical condition related to your heart, blood pressure, lungs, or anything else must consult your doctor and do accordingly. This trek will be much easier for you if you are in good physical and mental condition.
Conclusion
Upper Mustang Trek is a must-travel destination for everyone all around the world. Anyone interested in learning more about Nepal’s rich natural and cultural heritage should choose the Upper Mustang trek. It is one of the most unique and captivating experiences that one will experience in their whole life. Although there are always risks associated with any lengthy journey Upper Mustang is less risky and difficult in comparison to other treks.
A few important things to consider for an easy journey with less difficulty are your level of physical fitness, the length of the walk, the season you choose, and your level of preparation. This is an easy trek for anyone wanting to trek in the Upper Mustang. But preparation is a must because any journey can go sideways with a lack of preparation and poor execution. so, pack your bags and get ready for the upper Mustang trek where adventure and peace coexist in the ancient kingdom of Mustang.
Read More: https://zenexplorenepal.com/trip/upper-mustang-trek/