Discover Mustang: Nepal’s Forbidden Kingdom Beyond the Himalayas

The Mustang region of Nepal is where time stands still and adventure roars to life. Imagine yourself walking through ancient villages, racing across rugged trails on a Mountain Biking in Lower Mustang adventure, pushing your limits with Mountain Biking in Upper Mustang, hiking to the famous walled city on the Lo Manthang trek, celebrating the vibrant Tiji Festival, and visiting ancient temples nestled in the shadows of the mighty Himalayas. Mustang isn’t just a destination; it is a hidden kingdom filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, unmatched spiritual energy, and thrilling adventures. From the dusty trails of Lower Mustang to the lost cliffs of the Lomanthang Upper Mustang Trek, the untamed beauty of Mustang is ready to explore.

Where is Mustang?

The Mustang region of Nepal lies in north-central Nepal, bordering the Tibetan Plateau. Tucked away in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Mustang is a mythical land known for its ancient culture and dramatic landscapes. Here, you'll find wind-carved cliffs, ochre canyons, ancient caves, and an untouched Tibetan tradition.

Lower Mustang

Lower Mustang is home to charming villages like Jomsom, Kagbeni, and Marpha. It’s more accessible and famous for its apple orchards, scenic trails, and exciting activities like Mountain Biking in Lower Mustang.

Upper Mustang

 A restricted area, Upper Mustang features a desert-like landscape and sacred towns such as Lo Manthang. Entry requires a special permit and a licensed guide. Here, you can embark on unforgettable journeys like the Lomanthang Upper Mustang Trek and Mountain Biking in Upper Mustang.

The Mustang region is like a living museum — a place where history, culture, and adventure all come together in the wild beauty of the Himalayas. Reasons that truly sets Mustang apart

1. A Land Lost in Time

Imagine walking through medieval walled cities, old mud-brick houses, and ancient cliffside monasteries. Mustang feels like a Tibetan kingdom frozen in time, where traditions and ways of life have remained untouched for centuries. Every stone, prayer flag, and monastery tells a story of an ancient world still alive today. 

2. Tiji Festival : Dance of the Gods

Held every May, this three-day Tibetan Buddhist celebration of the victory of good over evil with masked dances, rituals, and  music in Lo Manthang. 

3.  Dreamy landscape

Mustang’s high-altitude deserts, wind-carved cliffs, and red-rock canyons are like the American Southwest but with towering 8,000-meter Himalayan peaks rising in the backdrop.

4. Sacred Temples and  Monasteries

Mustang is a spiritual powerhouse attracting  pilgrims, trekkers, and spiritual seekers from around the world. Some of its sacred highlights include :

• Muktinath Temple : Important pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists, where natural flame and sacred water springs symbolize the unity of earth, fire, and water.
• Ghar Gompa : A famous 8th-century cave monastery linked to Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava),  the saint who introduced Buddhism to Tibet.
• Choser Monastery : Located near the famous sky caves and yak herder settlements, this hidden monastery offers a glimpse into Mustang's spiritual traditions and rugged life.
• Thubchen and Jampa Monasteries : Located inside Lo Manthang, these ancient Buddhist monasteries are famous for their beautiful murals, towering statues, and centuries-old prayer halls that echo with chants of devotion.

Explore Marpha Village : Nepal’s Apple Capital

Nestled in Nepal’s Mustang District, Marpha Village is a peaceful Himalayan gem, famous for its sweet apple orchards and iconic Marpha brandy. Wander through narrow stone-paved alleys, ancient whitewashed houses, and fluttering prayer flags, and soak in the village’s calm charm.

Nearby, the historic Chhairo Monastery offers a glimpse into Mustang’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. With its sunny climate, welcoming locals, and breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri ranges, Marpha is an unforgettable stop on the Annapurna Circuit—or the perfect peaceful getaway.

Things to Do in Mustang

1. Visit the Muktinath Temple

Standing at 3,800 meters, Muktinath Temple is one of Nepal’s most sacred pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists. Pilgrims from all over South Asia come to bathe under its 108 holy water spouts and to witness the eternal flame that burns naturally at the temple. Beyond the temple’s spiritual power, the views of Dhaulagiri and the surrounding mountains are breathtaking.

2.  Mountain Biking in Lower Mustang

Mustang is a mountain biker’s dream, offering two unforgettable journeys. Lower Mustang is perfect for beginners  — race through apple orchards, cobblestone villages, and open desert trails from Jomsom to Muktinath. 

If you crave more challenge, Upper Mustang calls true adventurers to tackle windy passes, cliffside trails, and hidden Himalayan valleys. With every ride, Mustang promises culture, scenery, and pure adrenaline.

3. Lo Manthang Trek: The Path to the Forbidden Kingdom

The Lo Manthang Upper Mustang Trek is a journey through myth and moonlight. The Lo Manthang Upper Mustang Trek is like stepping into a lost world. This 10-14 day trek takes you from Kagbeni up to the fabled walled city of Lo Manthang, through barren valleys, mystical caves, and colorful Tibetan villages. A licensed guide is mandatory, and independent trekking is not allowed for the Lo Manthang Upper Mustang Trek.

4. Experience Tiji Festival

The Tiji Festival is a rare Mustang’s spiritual prayer to protect the kingdom from evil spirits and natural disasters, and trekking during Tiji offers an unforgettable glimpse into Mustang’s deep-rooted traditions with colorful masked dance.

5. Try Local Cuisine

Cozy teahouses serve hearty local meals like thukpa and homemade apple pie, perfect for refueling after a day of exploration. Don’t miss Thakali dal bhat, dried yak meat, buckwheat pancakes, and Chhyang (millet beer).

Mustang Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List

Mustang is not just a place — it’s an experience. Whether you're biking through ancient villages, trekking in the shadows of majestic peaks, or experiencing vibrant cultural festivals, Mustang offers an unforgettable journey. Its unique landscapes, rich heritage, and spiritual energy make it a must-visit destination for those seeking both adventure and spirituality.

Embark on your Mustang region adventure, and let the mountains and culture of this hidden gem captivate your soul.