Mustang
Entering this remote and restricted area to reach the ancient walled
city of Lo Monthang is the trip of a lifetime. Opened to tourists only
in 1991, Mustang is one of the last vestiges of traditional Tibetan
culture - even more so than Tibet itself.
The high altitude desert area north of Jomsom boasts
startling rock formations and deep canyons that are home to equally
unique Tibetan villages built into the rock faces and caves that surround
them. Huge monasteries painted in the traditional earth colors of black,
red, and white welcome visitors to view their 500 year old frescoes,
reminiscent of high Western religious art like the Sistine Chapel. Every
day in the restricted area is chock full of unique cultural experiences
and some of the most breathtaking vistas in the world.
Trekking to Mustang begins with a flight into Jomsom,
and then a short walk to Kagbeni, the last village before entering the
restricted area. From there, it takes a minimum of ten days to reach
the capital city of Lo Monthang and return.
On the way, you pass through the villages of Chuksang,
Tsele, and Tsarang, crossing many 3000-4000 meter passes on the way.
Once in Lo Monthang, you can visit the cave-dwelling villages of Chosyer
and the historic Namgyal Gompa north of the city. Upon your return,
you may choose to visit Luri Gompa, a spectacular temple built inside
a cave.
You may return via the same route to Kagbeni or detour
to Muktinath. Whatever your route, one of the special features of trekking
in Mustang is the opportunity to ride horses - sturdy Tibetan mountain
steeds - along much of the trail. |
