Accomodation and Food option Along the Upper Mustang Trek?
Accommodation and food options along the Upper Mustang trek vary depending on the specific route and the villages you visit. Here's what you can generally expect:
Accommodation:
Tea Houses/Lodges: Along the main trekking routes, there are tea houses or Lodges available for accommodation. These are basic lodges offering simple rooms with beds and blankets. Facilities may include shared bathrooms with squat toilets, and sometimes hot showers (though not always reliable). While basic, tea houses provide a warm and comfortable place to rest after a day of trekking.
Camping: In some remote areas or less frequented parts of the trek, camping may be necessary. Trekkers can arrange camping equipment and support staff through trekking agencies. Camping allows for more flexibility in terms of itinerary and offers a chance to experience the wilderness of Upper Mustang under the starry sky.
Food:
Local Guesthouse Meals: Most tea houses along the Upper Mustang trek offer meals to trekkers. The menu typically includes a variety of Nepali and Tibetan dishes such as dal Bhat (rice and lentils), momos (dumplings), noodles, fried rice, and Tibetan bread. These meals are simple but hearty and provide essential energy for trekking.
Packed Lunches: Some tea houses can arrange packed lunches for trekkers to take with them on the trail. Packed lunches usually consist of sandwiches, fruits, boiled eggs, energy bars, and snacks.
Bring Snacks: It's a good idea to bring along some of your favorite snacks such as energy bars, nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate to supplement meals and provide extra energy during long days of trekking.
It's essential to be flexible with your expectations regarding accommodation and food while trekking in Upper Mustang, as facilities can be basic and limited due to the remote nature of the region. Additionally, it's advisable to carry some cash in Nepali Rupees as credit card facilities may not be available in remote villages.
Best time to Trek to Upper Mustang Trek?
The best time for the Upper Mustang Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, providing ideal conditions for trekking and enjoying the stunning landscapes of the Mustang region.
Difficulty level
The Upper Mustang trek presents a moderate level of difficulty due to its high altitude, rugged terrain, and remote location. Trekkers should be prepared for altitude sickness, long days of trekking, and basic accommodations. Proper acclimatization, physical fitness, and appropriate gear are essential for a successful and enjoyable trek.
Necessary Permits:
To trek in the Upper Mustang region of Nepal, you'll need to obtain specific permits due to its restricted area status. Here are the permits required:
ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit): This permit is required for all treks in the Annapurna region, which includes Upper Mustang. It's obtained through the Nepal Tourism Board or the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) office in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System): While not always strictly enforced in the Upper Mustang region, it's still recommended to have a TIMS card.
Restricted Area Permit: This is the most crucial permit for trekking in Upper Mustang. Since it's considered a restricted area, you need a special permit issued by the Nepal Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. This permit is more expensive compared to other trekking permits in Nepal, and you're required to have a minimum of two trekkers in a group accompanied by a registered guide.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a concern for trekkers in Upper Mustang due to the high altitudes involved. Here are some tips to help prevent altitude sickness during the Upper Mustang trek:
Ascend slowly and gradually to higher altitudes, allowing your body time to acclimatize to the reduced oxygen levels. Take rest days as needed to acclimatize properly. Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water, to stay hydrated. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they can contribute to dehydration.
Maintain a balanced diet with sufficient calories to provide your body with the energy it needs for trekking at high altitudes. Consider taking acetazolamide (Diamox) under the guidance of a healthcare professional. This medication can help prevent altitude sickness by speeding up acclimatization. However, it's essential to discuss potential side effects and dosage with a doctor.
Guide and porter
Guide:
Guide is licensed by the Nepal Tourism Board and has experience in the Mustang region.. Negotiate the cost, which typically includes the guide's salary, meals, accommodation, and insurance.
Porter:
Ensure fair treatment, proper equipment, and clear communication with your porter. Discuss the weight limit with your porter to avoid overburdening them. It's customary to tip your guide and porter at the end of the trek as a token of appreciation for their services.
Having a guide and porter can enhance safety, provide local insights, and make your Upper Mustang trek more enjoyable.
Packing List:
Here's a concise packing list for the Upper Mustang Trek:
Clothing:
- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking t-shirts and long sleeves.
- Insulating Layer: Fleece or down jacket.
- Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.
- Trekking Pants: Lightweight and comfortable.
- Trekking Shirts: Long-sleeve and short-sleeve.
- Underwear: Moisture-wicking.
- Socks: Wool or synthetic.
- Hat: Warm hat for cold weather and a sun hat or cap.
- Gloves: Warm, waterproof gloves.
- Buff/Scarf: For warmth and dust protection.
Footwear:
- Trekking Boots: Sturdy and well-broken-in.
- Camp Shoes: Lightweight sandals or slippers.
Gear:
- Backpack: 40-50 liters with a rain cover.
- Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C (14°F).
- Trekking Poles: Adjustable.
- Headlamp: With extra batteries.
- Water Bottles/Bladder: 2-3 liters capacity.
- Water Purification: Tablets, filter, or UV purifier.
Personal First Aid Kit: Including any personal medications.
- Sunglasses: UV protection.
- Sunscreen: SPF 30 or higher.
- Lip Balm: With SPF.
- Toiletries and Personal Items:
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste
- Soap and Shampoo: Biodegradable.
- Towel: Quick-dry.
- Wet Wipes: For hygiene.
- Toilet Paper: And a lighter to burn used paper.
- Hand Sanitizer
Miscellaneous:
- Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit.
- Cash: In small denominations.
- Passport and Permits: Copies of important documents.
- Notebook and Pen
- Ziplock Bags: For waterproofing important items.
This list ensures you're prepared for the varied conditions of the Upper Mustang Trek while keeping your pack as light as possible.
