Mustang in Nepal

Mustang is one of the most beautiful districts of Nepal that lies in 28.998507° N and 83.847302° E in Gandaki province Nepal. It is the driest part of the country commonly known as desert in Nepal.  This district is spread in an area of 3573 square kilometers from 1372 m to 8167 m. The richest culture and amazing natural beauty of Mustang Nepal is great to explore. It is the best holiday destination for both Upper Mustang trek and Muktinath tour.

Mustang was the ancient forbidden kingdom and the last state of Nepal ruled by separate King even after unification in 1769 AD. It is divided into two subregions: 

• Upper Mustang
• Lower Mustang

Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang bordered with Tibet is the restricted area which requires special area permit for trekking. It was independent sovereign state from (1380 – 1964) AD and monarchy system exist till 2008 AD even after unification. It is also called as the Kingdom of Lo due to being ruled by different dynesty.

Naturally the Upper Mustang is most beautiful place where we can enjoy the arid trans Himalayan landscape. The high-altitude desert plateaus are unique than the green hills and mountains of Nepal. It is the best place for trekking on the monsoon due to being a rain shadow area behind the mountain. 

Attractions of Upper Mustang

Sky caves

Sky caves are the historical landmarks in the cliffs of Upper Mustang. The caves include around 10,000 man-made burrows decorated with Buddhist painting and sculptures. Mustang caves are 2000 – 3000 years old architecture believed to design for storing mummified human bodies. The sky cave in Mustang lies on the steep valley with mystery on its purpose and foundation. Tourist can visit the cave as the unique and amazing place of Mustang.

Lo Manthang (walled city)

Lo Manthang was the capital of forbidden kingdom. It is a rural Municipality of Mustang enriched with Tibetan and Thakali culture. The walled village with mud – brick and white colored houses built in 15th century is one of the beautiful sites to visit in Upper Mustang. Similarly, 4 stored Royal palace of last king is also the attraction of Lomanthang. 

The ancient Jampa Lhakang (gold house) monastery with giant Buddha statue and murals built 15th century, Thubchen monastery with amazing halls and colorful painting and Chode monastery are culturally important sites reflecting Buddhism in Lomanthang.

Tiji festival

Tiji festival is one of the most popular festivals of upper Mustang which is celebrated for three days. The cultural dance by experts wearing mask symbolizing the victory of god over evil.