Beginning on a journey through the Upper Mustang during the monsoon season turned out to be an adventure filled with unexpected challenges, breathtaking landscapes, and a deep connection with the local culture. While the road to Kagbeni was rough and unpredictable, the rewards of this unique trek was more than worth it.
Our journey began with a twist as we learned that no flights were operating between Pokhara and Jomsom due to changes in the flying protocol by the Nepal government. This meant that we had only one option to travel by road. The road conditions were far from ideal even in the best of times, and the monsoon season had made worse the situation with numerous landslides. But our determination and a stroke of luck moved us forward, and we safely reached Kagbeni in just one day.
The most challenging leg of our journey was undoubtedly the stretch between Pokhara and Kagbeni. The narrow, bumpy, and muddy roads were constantly interrupted by landslides, leaving us with barely enough space to navigate our Jeep. One wrong move and we could have crashed at least a hundred feet down into the roaring Kaligandaki River. However, with favorable weather on our side that day, we managed to make it to Kagbeni safely, allowing us to continue our journey further ahead.
As we left Kagbeni behind, our true adventure in Upper Mustang began. Here’s a glimpse of what we experienced.
Scenic Beauty Beyond Imagination
The scenery along the Kaligandaki Valley was nothing short of amazing. Towering cliffs, surging waterfalls, and charming villages decorated the landscape on both sides of the river. The colors of the cliffs, ranging from vivid red, grey, and pristine white, created a dramatic setting against the lush greenery brought to life by the monsoon rains.
A Plenty of Wildflowers
The desert plateau, normally brown and grey, transformed into a vibrant green color, dotted with varieties of wildflowers in full bloom. The sight of beautiful buckwheat blossoms along our path left us in awe, as the landscape seemed to shift magically from one hue to another providing plenty of opportunities for photography and getting lost in its beauty.
Spiritual Oasis
Upper Mustang is a treasure trove of historical Buddhist monasteries and dwelling caves, some dating back hundreds of centuries. The complex crafts, ancient paintings, and sheer beauty of these monasteries left us captivated. Stupas, with their calm presence, marked our path and graced the villages we encountered. Two cave stupas, Tashi Kabun near Yara village, and one at Luri Cave Monastery, were enchanting and breathtaking. Upper Mustang is an area of the Heritage Himalayan Buddhist Community and the history of human civilization.
A Closer Bond with Locals
Traveling during the monsoon season brought delightful surprises. This meant less competition for accommodation, allowing us to make a deeper connection with both the locals and lodge owners. The warmth of their hospitality enclosed us, as we engaged in meaningful interactions to dive into their culture and daily routines. The locals’ friendliness and hospitality were truly heartwarming. Their smiles were like a remedy, erasing the fatigue of the day and replenishing our energy. This unique experience lit our journey, reminding us that sometimes, the off-peak seasons offer the most authentic and heartwarming travel memories.
Delighted Food
Food preparation along our route had improved significantly; the meals were consistently delicious, well-cooked, and accompanied by great service. Influenced by Tibetan flavors, the local cuisine added a unique and satisfying element to our journey. In every single place we stopped, we relished tasty dishes that left us craving for more. This culinary experience elevated our trekking adventure and made it even more memorable.
Dwelling Caves and Traditional Tibetan Villages
Exploring Upper Mustang’s ancient Dwelling Caves and traditional Tibetan villages was an awe-inspiring experience. These remarkable places offer a glimpse into the flexibility of the locals who have adapted to these challenging living conditions over generations. The villages felt like time capsules, preserving unique stories and histories. Visiting Jong Cave and Cave Museum in Chhosar was a highlight, where we could witness the enduring legacy of Upper Mustang’s human civilization. Some of these caves are still accessible, while others remain not, adding an intriguing layer to our journey. It’s a must-visit site for anyone seeking a deeper connection with history and culture.
Explore Lesser-Visited Areas: Naurikot, Gurusangbo, and Thini Village/Kutsab Ternga Monastery.
At the end of the Upper Mustang Trek, we explored the lesser-visited areas of Naurikot, Gurusangbo, and Thini Village/Kutsab Ternga Monastery in the lower Mustang area. It was nothing short of a magical journey. These hidden treasures left a permanent mark on our hearts, and here’s why.
Naurikot village, located on the west side of the Kaligandaki River, is a little paradise that offers stunning scenes of farmland against an environment of majestic Mt. Dhaulagiri and Tukuche Peak. A leisurely one-hour stroll from Naurikot to Gurusangbo is like stepping into another world that can only be described as charming, where beautiful waterfalls and plentiful wildflowers blossoming add to the attraction of this natural wonder.
Thini Village, a “Thakali” Village, is a world of its own. Apple orchards and lush farms greeted us as we explored this picturesque settlement. Our timing couldn’t have been better, as we were treated to the mesmerizing sight of buckwheat blossoms in full glory. But the crowning jewel of our visit was undoubtedly the Kutsab Ternga Monastery, a repository of precious treasures.
Kutsab Ternga Monastery, or the “House of Guru Rinpoche’s Precious 5 Treasures,” as it translates, is a haven of spirituality and artistry. We were lucky to witness the five precious Jewels. The monastery is well-decorated and preserves beautifully crafted statues and magnificent paintings. The name itself carries a profound meaning, representing the embodiment of Guru Rinpoche’s teachings. We felt very fortunate to have the opportunity to visit that religiously important century-old Buddhist Monastery and witness the five treasures preserved in it.
Our journey to these lesser-visited areas left us in admiration. The natural beauty and cultural richness that often go unnoticed. Naurikot, Gurusangbo, and Thini Village/Kutsab Ternga Monastery are true hidden gems, offering an authentic experience for those willing to venture off the beaten path. This expedition has certainly enriched our lives, and we wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a glimpse into the untouched wonders of the Lower Mustang Region.
Overall, an Unforgettable Trek
In hindsight, the challenging road trips between Pokhara and Kagbeni and back only added to the richness of our adventure. The feeling of accomplishment as we navigated treacherous terrain and overcame unexpected obstacles made every moment worthwhile. The Upper Mustang trek in the monsoon season was nothing short of fantastic. The breathtaking landscapes, cultural treasures, and genuine interactions with the locals made this journey an experience that will stay with us forever. While the road to Kagbeni may have been tough, it was a journey of resilience that we wouldn’t trade for anything.
Please join with Blossom Expeditions to explore these wonderful places “Upper Mustang” and discover the wonderlands of Nepal yourself.
Blossom Expeditions
P.O. Box No. 21101, Kathmandu, Nepal.
blossomexpeditions@gmail.com
info@blossomexpeditions.com
www.blossomexpeditions.com
Whatsapp/Viber. 977-9841454462
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