Mustang Nepal

• The region was once covered by the Tethys Sea millions of years ago.
• Mountain formations resulted from the collision of tectonic plates.
• Fossils (saligrams) from the Tethys Sea can be found embedded in rocks.

• Early humans inhabited the area and used caves within the mountains as shelters.

• Glacial snow melts and flows down the mountains, providing a water source in an otherwise desert-like environment.

• Various mud sculptures resembling pots can be found in the landscape.

• Located at an altitude of 3,770 meters (12,368 ft.).
• Features a few hotels and shops.
• Offers refreshments and fuel.

• Unique geography in the Himalayan district of Mustang.
• Windy region with strong winds.

• Stallion Rock (Ghode Dhunga) near the stress
• Free Tower offers a horseback riding experience on a cliff.
• Marpha Distillery utilizes apples for alcohol production.
• The region’s roadway to Mustang can be challenging, especially during the rainy season.

• The road is carved onto a massive rock face.
• Tato Pani, a pond along the way with believed medicinal properties.
• Rupse Jharana (Rupse Waterfall) is a challenging section with a narrow road allowing only single-vehicle passage.

• Rupse Jharana (Rupse Waterfall) is a popular waterfall in Myagdi, cascading from a height of 75 meters.

• Main attraction: Mud and stone houses.
• Resistant to earthquakes due to the region’s arid and dry climate.
• Located in the rain shadow region of Mustang.

• Known as the “capital of apples.”
• Produces a variety of tasty and juicy apples.
• Marpha juices and liquors are famous.

• Often unnoticed from the main road by travelers heading to Muktinath or upper Mustang via Jomsom.
• Several hotels and curio shops are available for tourists.

• Pra Gumba, Bhir Gumba, and Mamti Gufa.
• Beautiful orchards, topography, and alleyways to explore.
• A clean and pollution-free village.

• Narrow alleyways are accessible only by motorbikes.
• Unique alleyway names, like “Jerry Galli,” named after the movie “Jerry.”
•  An exclusive spot for elderly residents.

• Main walking trail to Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
• Used by tourists returning from Dolpa.

• Interior of the Gumba (monastery) is exquisite.
• A religious site with a painted rock.
• Visited by the late king and queen of Mustang.

• Appears to cling to the cliff in a fascinating way.
• Resistant to strong earthquakes.
• It’s actually a cave with an upper floor.
• Associated with a myth involving the queen falling ill on the way to Muktinath.
• The queen constructed the monastery for a Lama who helped her.

• Inside the cave, there is a statue of great religious importance.
• It requires a specific tool to be revealed.
• It’s advised not to be scared upon first sight of the statue.
• The belief is that one may lose their senses if spooked by the statue.

• The important statue is located at the far right inside the cave.
• There are other statues as well.

• From the highest floor, there’s an exit leading out into the open.

• A very historical cave where Guru Rinpoche himself meditated.
• Situated high up on a hill on a mud cliff.

• The belief that wishes made at this cave will be fulfilled.
• The cave has a circular and vibrating interior.
• The tradition of writing wishes on stones and placing them in wall cavities inside the cave.

• Kagbeni serves as a starting point with two roads: one to Muktinath and the other to Lo Manthang, Korala, and Upper Mustang.
• Lo Manthang is approximately 90 km from Jomsom, and the Korala border is around 20-22 km from Lo Manthang.

• The road from Kagbeni to Lo Manthang offers scenic views, making it a captivating journey.
• Returning from Lower Mustang means missing out on these mesmerizing vistas.

• Upper Mustang falls under a rain shadow region, resulting in minimal rainfall.
• Southern mountains block clouds from the Bay of Bengal, causing rain to divert to other areas like the Kaski district.

• The region experiences arid conditions, resembling a desert due to the lack of rain.
• Houses are constructed from mud due to the scarcity of rainfall and vegetation.

• Roads may remain

• Situated in a valley at an altitude of approximately 3600 meters.
• Known for its green vegetation, with a distinct green area after a short downhill from Syangmochen.
• Characterized by Tibetan traditions and a predominantly Tibetan dialect.

• Primary occupation: Agriculture, with agricultural land holding significant value.

• Numerous interesting caves and monasteries, with a significant presence of the Mustang Gurung community.

• The village comprises approximately 60-70 houses.
• Crops produced include wheat, buckwheat, and potatoes.
• Agricultural lands are enclosed with walls; farming is primarily within walled areas.

• The village has a designated leader known as the Mukhiya (chief).
• Mukhiya’s responsibilities: Managing farming activities and resolving minor disputes.
• Festival decisions are made by the chief (Mukhiya).

• Abundance of Bhote Pipal trees with yellow leaves.
• Resilient species thrive even in dry regions.
• Utilized for construction purposes in the area.

• Upper Mustang region of Nepal

• Kheku Chowk with traditional architecture
• Protective castle-like wall
• Buddhist monasteries
• Tashi Gephel Palace
• Unique mud architecture

• Constructed in the 15th century by King Amad Pal
• Five-sided palace made of mud, timber, and rocks

• Built to safeguard the people
• Gates closed around 5 PM for security

• Founded by King Amad Pal in the 14th century
• The mud-based architecture reflects the cultural heritage

• Over 600 years old
• Exemplifies Tibetan craftsmanship

• Elevation of 3,800 meters (12,467 ft.)
• Moon-like, rugged terrain

• An integral part of local culture and spirituality

• Lo Manthang trail is considered one of the best treks in the world

• Various stony ruins of castles along the way, potentially ancient
• Possible historical significance

• The presence of offerings and religious significance observed

• A few small settlements were found along the route

• Near Chhoser village, there’s a trail to Damodar Lake
• Requires several days of walking to reach

• The terrain is relatively flat with no mountains, resembling the Terai region
• Electric poles along the road

Korala Border Structures

• Impressive structures at the Korala border
• Pillar on Nepal’s side and one in China
• Barricaded building with a gate in the middle
• Altitude: 4,650 meters (15,256 ft.)

• Two big buildings on the China border equipped with solar panels and CCTV cameras
• Nepal side lacks such infrastructure