Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

Additional Information

Pokhara – Jomsom Flight 

Jomsom Airport is one of the world’s most exciting airports, offering thrilling flights over the Himalayan ranges. During peak trekking seasons, it becomes bustling with flights connecting Pokhara to Jomsom. However, the unpredictable mountain weather, often affected by strong winds, can cause flight delays or cancellations. 

In case of flight disruptions, an alternative 9-10 hour Jeep drive from Pokhara to Jomsom ensures travelers can continue their journey. For the best experience, early morning flights are scheduled when the weather is typically clearer, promising a safe and scenic trip. 

Tour Difficulty 

While touring Upper Mustang by Jeep is adventurous and less physically demanding than trekking, it's remote, rugged environment requires good preparation, a sturdy vehicle, and an experienced driver. With these in place, it’s an incredible way to explore the region's stunning landscapes and rich culture. 

Drink plenty of water, enjoying nature, avoiding cold, eating a balanced died and mentally daring to reach Upper mustang with happy mood are the hallmarks of your successful journey to destination. 

High Altitude Sickness 

If the tourists have symptoms of headache, loss of appetite, diarrhea, shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, rapid pulse with sleeping problem, he/she is suffered by high altitude sickness. The other factors such as changing weather, cold, sun, wind, low oxygen and bad foods are the key component of high altitude sickness. 

Tourists visiting Lo Manthang (elevation 3,840m) in Upper Mustang may experience high altitude sickness due to the area's high altitude and rugged terrain. Though the trek is less physically intense compared to some Himalayan routes, the thin air and reduced oxygen can still cause altitude-related problems. 

So need to warm while tour to Upper Mustang with proper clothes and equipment due to cold in morning and evening time and windy in day time too. It can affect people of any age, sex and physical conditions. So, we suggest our clients, do not drink alcohol and smoke, drink plenty of water while hiking to Annapurna, train your body and strength up before trekking, eat energy food, and mentally be happy during your journey. 

The most common medicine for preventing high altitude sickness is Diamox or Acetazolamide. Even our guide takes Diamox on the route which is easily purchased in Kathmandu. Ascending down is the solution to avoid high altitude as the altitude sickness affects people from the elevation of 2600 meters above sea level. For normal high altitude sickness our guide helps to control by providing medicine and good food and he takes to medication center where available. If the trekkers feel bad, need to drive immediately to lower part such as in Jomsom or kagbeni.
 

Best Time to Go 

The best time to visit Upper Mustang is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. Here's why: 

Spring (March – May) 

• Weather: The days are warmer, with longer daylight hours and clear skies. 
• Highlights: The lower regions, including Kagbeni and Jomsom, enjoy mild weather with the beautiful flowers blooming. 
• Considerations: Higher altitudes might experience some snowfall, but the weather is generally favorable for trekking. 

Autumn (September – November)

• Weather: Crisp, clear skies with moderate temperatures, making it ideal for trekking. The days are shorter, but the atmosphere is very pleasant. 
• Highlights: The Himalayan views are at their best, with clear, stunning vistas. It’s a popular time for trekkers, especially in October and November. 
• Considerations: This is the peak trekking season, so trails can be busier, but the weather is fantastic. 

Avoid visiting during the winter (December – February), as it can be very cold and challenging, and during the monsoon (June – August), when heavy rains can make the trails slippery and difficult. 

In summary, spring and autumn are the ideal seasons for trekking in Upper Mustang, with autumn being particularly popular due to the excellent weather conditions and clear mountain views.
 

Accommodation 

During a tour to Upper Mustang, trekkers typically stay in tea houses along the driving route. These tea houses offer basic yet comfortable accommodations and provide a warm meal and drinks to keep you energized for the journey. 

Facilities: Tea houses are basic, featuring simple rooms with beds and blankets. Some tea houses offer attached bathrooms, while others provide only the room with beds. 

Cleanliness: Despite being basic, the tea houses are generally neat and clean, ensuring a comfortable stay. 

Temperature Considerations: While tea houses provide blankets, the cold at higher altitudes can be harsh, especially at night. Sleeping bags are recommended to ensure warmth and comfort. Meal Options: Tea houses serve simple, nutritious meals to trekkers, such as rice, lentils, and soup, and offer a variety of drinks including tea and coffee. 

Alternative Luxury Lodging 

In some areas, there are more luxurious lodges available, which offer higher-quality accommodation, though they are comparatively more expensive than the standard tea houses. If you prefer more comfort, luxury lodges can be arranged, depending on availability and your preferences. 

5-Star Hotels 

Luxury Options: In certain locations, there are a few 5-star standard hotels, but these are generally quite rare and come with a much higher cost than tea houses. They provide premium services but are not as common along the trekking route. 

Food and water

During a tour to Upper Mustang, it's essential to stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet. Tea houses in the region provide a variety of meals, including: Nepali food (Dal Bhat, a traditional rice and lentil dish) Soups Snacks (such as momos, fried rice, and spring rolls) Continental and American breakfast (eggs, porridge, bread with jam and honey) Noodles, spaghetti 
 

Fried potatoes, steak 

Regarding water safety, it's important to avoid drinking water directly from rivers or waterfalls, even though locals may do so. Foreigners should stick to bottled water or boiled water to avoid waterborne diseases. Additionally, trekkers often carry purification tablets to ensure the water is safe, as these tablets kill 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Due to the high altitude, it's recommended to drink 2-3 liters of water per day to stay properly hydrated and maintain good health throughout the trek. 
 

Hire a Guide 

A guide, also known as a Leader, is a licensed professional recognized by the Nepal government who is responsible for leading visitors on trekking expeditions. Beyond simply guiding the way, a trekking guide plays a multifaceted role in ensuring a successful and enjoyable journey. Their duties include: 
 

Interpretation: Explaining the local culture, history, geography, and religious practices to visitors. 
 

Leadership: Ensuring trekkers stay on the correct trail and reach their destination safely. 
 

Logistics: Managing arrangements such as booking tea houses, ordering food, and organizing porters for the trek. 
 

Companionship: Acting as a friend who keeps trekkers entertained, making the trek enjoyable with fun and laughter. 

The trekking guide is an ambassador of Nepal, providing visitors with valuable insights and contributing to the sustainability of the local environment. A good guide not only educates trekkers but also ensures the safety and well-being of the group. 

The trekking agency is responsible for choosing qualified guides who have undergone suitable training, even though they hold government licenses. These guides are expected to deliver excellent customer service, maintain a good reputation for their company, and ensure the success of the trip. Essential qualities for a trekking guide include: 

Strong communication skills 

Problem-solving ability 

Decision-making skills 

Self-motivation Physical fitness and strength

Whether the trek takes place in regions like Everest, Annapurna, or Upper Mustang, a well-trained trekking guide is crucial to the success of the journey, ensuring that visitors have a safe and enriching experience. 

Telephone and Internet 

In Upper Mustang, both internet and mobile phone services are available, with the main mobile networks being NTC (Nepal Telecom) and NCELL. These networks are generally reliable along trekking trails and in Kathmandu, though signal quality can degrade during bad weather or snow. 

While NTC and NCELL offer affordable services, there may be some areas where connectivity is intermittent due to the region's challenging geography and weather conditions. Tourists can also buy Wi-Fi access in local tea houses, though it is usually a paid service. Both NTC and NCELL SIM cards are readily available for purchase at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and from vendors in the popular tourist district of Thamel. 

Toilet and Shower 

During a tour to Upper Mustang, toilet and shower facilities depend on the type of lodge you stay in: 

Normal Lodges: Toilets and showers are usually shared. These lodges provide basic facilities, and hot showers may be available for an additional fee. 
Toilets: Basic squat-style toilets are common, though some tea houses have Western-style toilets. 
Showers: Most lodges offer bucket showers with hot water for an extra fee (around $2-$5). Some higher-end lodges may have attached bathrooms with running hot water. 

Good Lodges: Rooms come with attached bathrooms, offering private toilets and showers. These lodges provide more comfort and better amenities. 
Toilets & Showers: These lodges have modern facilities with en-suite bathrooms, flush toilets, and hot showers, though they are limited in number. 

Since Upper Mustang is a remote area, the availability of such facilities may base on the location and lodge quality. 

Tips: 

• Carry toilet paper, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer. 
• Be prepared for limited water availability in remote areas, especially during winter. 
• Solar-heated showers are common but depend on weather conditions. 

Tour Insurance 

Why Tour Insurance is Important:

 Emergency Evacuation: If trekkers feel unwell or unable to continue their journey, helicopter rescue may be needed. 

Medical Treatment: Coverage for hospital stays and medical expenses ensures proper care. 

Trip Interruptions: Delays or cancellations due to weather, landslides, or other unforeseen circumstances can disrupt travel plans. 

Accidents & Injuries: Trekking involves physical risks, so having insurance provides financial protection. 

Key Coverage to Look For: Altitude Sickness: Ensure coverage extends above 4,000 meters. 

Helicopter Rescue & Evacuation: Must be included due to the remote nature of Upper Mustang. 

Medical Expenses & Hospitalization: In case of severe illness or injury. 

Flight Cancellations & Delays: Especially for flights between Pokhara and Jomsom. 

Personal Belongings: Coverage for lost or damaged items. 

Finding the Right Insurance: 

Search online for reputable insurance providers specializing in adventure travel. Compare policies carefully to ensure they meet all necessary criteria for high-altitude tour in Nepal. 

Upper Mustang Permit 

Upper Mustang is situated inside the territory of Annapurna Conservation Area which is the first conservation area of Nepal. Foreign Trekkers are required to obtain permit to entry Annapurna Circuit Trek such as ACAP Permit and TIMS. 

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): 

Cost: USD 30 per person 

Where to Obtain: Nepal Tourism Board and associated trekking company of Nepal (Adventure Planner Pvt. Ltd) 

Requirements: Passport copy and passport-size photos. 

Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Upper Mustang special Permit Cost: USD 500 per person for the first 10 days, then USD 50 per day for additional days. 

Where to Obtain: Through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. (Adventure Planner Pvt. Ltd.) 

Requirements: Passport copy, visa, itinerary, and travel agency coordination. 

Note: Trekking must be done with a licensed guide, and a minimum of two trekkers is required. 
 

Important Notes: 

• Independent trekking is not allowed; you must hire a guide through a licensed trekking agency.
•  Permits are checked at several points along the route, especially at Kagbeni, the entry point to Upper Mustang.
   

Tour Equipment List 

Carrying the right gear is essential for a safe and successful journey to Upper Mustang. Proper equipment not only ensures comfort but also helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness and enhances the tour experience. Here’s a detailed list of essential items: 

Clothing: 

Base Layers: Lightweight thermal tops and bottoms 

Insulation Layer: Fleece jacket/pants 

Outer Layer: Waterproof jacket with hood (breathable) and waterproof hiking pants 

Down Jacket: Suitable for temperatures as low as -20°C 

Rain Gear: Raincoat/poncho 

Trekking Pants: Comfortable and durable pants 

Hiking Shorts: For lower altitudes and warm days 

Underwear: Comfortable and quick-drying 

Socks: Warm and thin trekking socks
 

Footwear: 

Waterproof Hiking Boots: Sturdy and comfortable 

Sport Shoes: For campsites or easy walks 

Trekking Poles: Adjustable and lightweight 
 

Head & Hand Gear:

 Warm Cap & Sun Cap: For warmth and sun protection 

Sunglasses: UV-protected for high-altitude glare 

Waterproof Warm Gloves: Insulated and weather-resistant 

Neck Gaiter: For wind and sun protection 

Sleeping & Carrying Gear: 

Sleeping Bag (-20°C rated): Essential for cold nights 

Duffel Bag (90L): For gear storage (porters usually carry this) 

Hand Carry Bag: Daypack for personal items 

Travel Towel: Lightweight and quick-drying 

Accessories: Water Bottle/Hydration Bladder: 2-3 liters capacity 

Headlamp with Extra Batteries: For nighttime visibility 

Sun Cream & Lip Balm: SPF 30+ for UV protection 

Personal First Aid Kit: Include essentials like pain relievers, bandages, and altitude sickness medication (guides also carry a kit) 

Camera: For capturing memories
 

Additional Tips: 

Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying clothing. 

Bring extra batteries or a portable charger, as electricity may be limited. 

Carry personal items like snacks, travel documents, and trekking permits.