The shorter version of the Mustang Trek starts in Jomsom and heads along the right bank of the Kali Gandaki River up to Lo Manthang, and then back down the left bank to Jomsom again (either on foot or by bus). Allow 6 to 10 days. Day stages range between 7 km and 19 km. The section between Jomsom and Lo Manthang is exceptionally varied in terms of nature and beauty. There are many gems along the way, including deep gorges and unusual rock formations. Covering shorter distances each day is advisable in order to acclimatize properly and be able to enjoy the culture and geological features, such as the oldest known cave temple in the Himalayas and even older cave settlements.

Walking through the isolated villages, you’ll experience the hard mountain life these people lead, ancient cultural practices, and the mix of Buddhism and pre-Buddhist religions that exist in the Mustang region. This can be seen in the beautifully painted houses, some with animistic influences. The town of Lo Manthang, which although small, is the biggest in the Mustang Valley, is home to no less than three temples and monasteries, with beautiful wood carvings and wall paintings. The terrible earthquake that struck in spring 2015 caused some serious damage to these and they are currently being restored with the support of European funding. Lo Manthang is an inviting place to spend a day or two exploring the town and its surroundings. If walking back to Jomsom, this will take a further 4 days. By bus or jeep is naturally much faster.

Anyone walking further, and over the Seribung Pass (6,020 m) into the Naar Phu Valley, need to be fit for altitude and factor in 21 days in total (with 3 rest days included). The rest days are for acclimatization and essential for the body to adjust. For 9 of these days this section is very remote and at altitude. It also requires mountaineering equipment and staying in a tent as there are no villages, and therefore no accommodation or food provisions through this section of the trek. Being well organized in advance is therefore a must. 

The trail over Seribung Pass takes you through exceptionally rugged terrain. On the way to the glacier, it takes in two passes over 5,000 meters, before reaching an open high-alpine plateau. Then, it’s two stunningly beautiful days along the glacier and into the Naar Phu Valley. Here, you’re treated to a whole new geological makeup, a different climate, and also different architecture and farming practices. From Phu (3,990 m) onwards it’s slowly back into civilization. Until this trek meets up with the popular Annapurna trail in Meta or Ghermu it is very remote and very wild.