Nepal is a trekking paradise. With the top 10 highest summits in the world, vast natural beauty, and spectacular landscapes, Trekking in Nepal is on a wish list for many trekkers.
Trek to Mustang is a popular destination for national and international trekkers. Mustang lies in the altitude of 3,840 meters in the North-West part of Nepal. This beautiful land has two sections ie. Upper Mustang and lower Mustang. Upper Mustang is popular for adventurous trekking while lower Mustang is famous for natural scenery.
Upper Mustang is a remote arid area of trans-Himalayan mountains. Bordering Tibet, this region has a distinct Tibetan feel – both in its people and culture, and in the landscape. High rocky cliffs of unusual formation and colour, caves, rock paintings, monasteries, and, of course, high snow mountains, are a feature of this region.
- Weather of Mustang in Spring Time
This is a great time to visit Upper Mustang, particularly if trekking in from Lower Mustang as the weather will be warmer and the rivers full with snow melt in the lower regions. Along with the great natural beauty, this time will also give you an opportunity to experience and be a part of the unique spiritual “Tiji Festival”.
The major attraction of Lo Manthang is the Tiji Festival. You can take part in the festival. Tiji Festival lasts for three days in May. Enjoy the traditional Tibetan songs, their colorful traditional dress and the sword dance. Temperatures at this time of year are generally between 16 and 22 degrees Celsius.
This is a very good time to trek, but remember Upper Mustang is considered a ‘demanding’ trek and a good level of fitness is required, with the arid air making the average (for Nepal!) altitude seem higher.
- Weather of Mustang in Summer
There is no monsoon in Upper Mustang, which makes it a very good trekking area for those who have to take their annual leave during the summer months. Upper Mustang trek is safe during this period. While trekking on the trail, you don’t have to worry about slippery and muddy road with leeches, and unclear mountain views.
The full moon in August during the full moon marks the horse festival or the local Yartung Mela. This festival lasts for three days consisting of a horse race, archery, and dance. The warm and clear weather serves great for trekking during this time.
Again this is a good time for trekking in Upper Mustang but do remember that the dry air makes the altitude seem higher than it is, and good fitness is a must. If trekking in from the lower altitudes which are in monsoon mode, you will need gear for wet days.
- Weather of Mustang in Autumn
As across the whole of Nepal, the autumn is the time with the bluest skies and clearest mountain views. Afternoons can be windy though so be prepared! In general temperatures range from 12 to 20 degrees Celsius. The weather becomes dry offering great visibility making way for great trekking condition. During this time you can trek with ease and comfort. Since the weather is stable, you will enjoy the spectacular view of Mt.Annapurna, Mt.Dhaulagiri, Mt.Nilgiri, and other peaks along the trail. These months are also great to see animals and birds of the region.
This is really the end of the trekking season in Upper Mustang as lodges close and villagers migrate to Pokhara and Kathmandu to wait out the harsh winters. Trails disappear under snow and heavy duty winter gear is required after November.
However, during this period you need to be aware that the trail remains crowded with trekkers. As such you are likely to face difficulties regarding room and flight tickets.
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