Upper Mustang Trek

1. Physical fitness
Physical fitness is an important part of any outdoor activity. It is probably less of an issue at the start than you might think. Trek is about taking your time settling your own pace and enjoying the experience to its fullest. Basically, there are three components of Nepal trek preparation: Aerobic, strength, and mental. Aerobic conditioning is important primarily because you will trek in thinner air, up to 40 percent less than at sea level. With good aerobic conditioning, you will be able to better metabolize whatever oxygen is available to you.

Before your arrival in Nepal, you should plan on doing at least one hour of aerobic exercise 3-4 times per week for 1 month. Jogging, hiking, cycling, and walking on alley floors to ridgeline ascents with a day pack are excellent forms of exercise, as long as you're strengthening leg muscles and building stamina. Speed is not the essence; confidence, stamina, and continuity are.


2. Trekking Seasons in Nepal
Nepal experiences peak tourist seasons primarily in two periods: fall (September to November), which is the most popular, and spring (March to May), which follows closely behind. The summer months (June to August) coincide with the monsoon season, resulting in washed-out trails and, at times, impassable roads due to landslides. Additionally, scenic views are often obscured. However, some regions lie within rain shadow areas, receiving little to no rain, making summer a viable option for visiting these places despite the season.

Winter in Nepal is characterized by dry weather, with nights at higher altitudes seeing temperatures drop as low as -20°C. Despite the cold nights, the days are generally sunny and pleasant. One of the perks of this season is the reduced crowd on the trails. In Kathmandu, daytime temperatures can reach a comfortable 20°C.

Fall is the most popular season in Nepal as it follows the monsoons, bringing dry air, sunny days, and lush green landscapes in the lower valleys due to the heavy rains. Spring is also a favored time to visit.


3. Trekking Day
A typical trekking day in Nepal starts with a cup of tea around 6 AM. It's recommended to pack your trekking gear into a duffel bag and keep essential items in your day pack during the early morning. After breakfast, the trek begins around 8 AM. The morning trek is longer, taking advantage of your refreshed energy and enthusiasm. Around 11:30 AM, the group stops for lunch, where you can enjoy a meal and explore the area or relax at your own pace. After an hour or two of rest, the trek resumes, aiming to reach the teahouse or campsite by 3-4 PM. The afternoon trek is shorter and may include activities like games or side trips arranged by the guides. Along the way, you can take breaks to relax, read, explore, or engage with locals to observe their lifestyle. Dinner is served around 7 PM, marking the end of the day.


4. Meals and Accommodation
During the length of the trek, the accommodation style is commonly referred to as a teahouse. These are family-run basic lodges that fill the role of a restaurant, meeting place, and boarding house for tourists. Electricity can be found in the rooms, which means one light bulb, and one or two outlets for charging electronics. The common areas are also lit by electricity. Teahouses may use solar, hydroelectric, or have electrical lines running into the village, so the commonality and availability of electricity may vary.

Most teahouses have private rooms, though if the trek is in a more remote or high-altitude place, dormitories are the norm. Each room has 1 or 2 single beds with basic bedding, and the bathroom is shared. Expect a mix of western and squat-style toilets in the bathrooms.

Breakfast and dinner are taken at the teahouse, and these lodges have large family-style dining rooms centered on a stove to provide heat. The menu will have Nepali-style western foods such as pasta, pizza, pancakes, burgers, and fries. Also on the menu is the traditional Dal Bhat meal, a lentil soup with rice and vegetable or meat curry. Most menus will also offer a smattering of local cuisine.


5. Internal Flight Delays
Nepal is a stunning country of mountains, valleys, rivers, and lush hills, but this diverse landscape makes road travel time-consuming. As a result, domestic flights are often essential for reaching popular trekking destinations. However, the mountainous terrain also increases the likelihood of inclement weather, and during peak seasons, the high number of visitors can lead to frequent internal flight delays. To manage this, it’s wise to plan for a few extra days on either side of your tour.

Flight delays, especially between Kathmandu and Lukla (the gateway to the Everest region), are common. To stay on schedule, we offer services to arrange helicopter transfers if needed, adhering to Nepal's Civil Aviation Rules, which allow helicopters to fly with 1500m of visibility. The cost for this service ranges from USD 350 to USD 650, depending on the number of passengers. Payment can be made directly to the helicopter company or to us, by cash or credit card.

It's also helpful to review your travel insurance, as some policies may cover alternative travel arrangements in the event of delays or cancellations. Flight insurance may also cover changes to your international flights if necessary.


6. Travel Insurances
Many expeditions and tours require purchasing travel insurance before arriving in Nepal, though some treks and tours may not. Nevertheless, travel insurance is a crucial consideration. First, check if the company you're booking with mandates it. Since Nepal is a landlocked country with limited direct flights, disruptions can occur. Make sure your insurance covers flight delays and cancellations. Additionally, despite all precautions, unforeseen accidents can happen. Ensure your policy covers trekking or other activities, as some insurers may exclude coverage for certain areas. Having the right insurance ensures peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your trip without worry. Take the time to research and select a plan that meets your needs.


7. Nepal Visa Entry Procedures
For entry into Nepal, visitors (except Indian nationals) must hold a passport and valid visa. The Nepal visa entry procedure can be completed at the Nepalese embassies or consulates abroad. A Nepal visa can also be obtained at entry points like Kathmandu international airport upon arrival. No visa fee is required for children under 10 years of age. To get a Nepal visa, you must fill out a form with truthful information, passport details, and a photograph.

Visa on Arrival Tourist Visa
Visa Facility Duration Fee
Three options are available for entry:
Single entry 15 days: US $30
Single entry 30 days: US $50
Multiple entry 90 days: US $125

Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the time of entry. Have cash ready in US dollars. For more information and an up-to-date list of visa exemptions or to obtain the most current visa details, visit the Nepal Department of Immigration website.


8. Acute Mountain Sickness
Acute mountain sickness is common at high altitudes and depends on the elevation, the rate of ascent, and individual susceptibility. Symptoms tend to be worse at night and include headache, loss of appetite, lethargy, nausea, breathlessness, hopelessness, and irritability. An altitude over 3000 meters (9843 feet) is usually defined as high altitude. Treks are designed to properly acclimatize you to changes in high-altitude climates, and sufficient precautionary measures are taken. Our staff is equipped with cell phones and satellite phones for emergencies. The safety and security of our clients are always our foremost concern.


9. Drinking Water
Water is essential for life, and clean water is imperative while on holiday. When choosing to visit less-developed countries, all travelers should consider safe drinking options. Tap water should not be ingested, even for brushing your teeth. Most travelers buy bottled water, but ensure the cap has not been tampered with. Since plastic waste is an issue, consider using alternatives like water filters or purification tablets. Your guide can help steer you to safe drinking options.


10. Arrival Instructions
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our company representatives will welcome you to the country. Look for your name being held by our representatives as you exit. They will escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Be cautious of people offering to carry your luggage. Pay attention to your belongings to avoid complications.


11. Can We Customize a Private Trek?
Depending on the situation, you can modify your trek slightly after consulting your guide. However, the trek completion date must coincide with the original itinerary. In the remote Himalayan regions, unforeseen events may require changes to the itinerary. In such cases, our team or your senior guide will suggest the best alternative plan that closely matches the original itinerary.