Upper Mustang and Upper Dolpo, an Alternative of Mainstream Trekking Destination (Everest, Annapurna and Langtang)

In recent times, Nepal has been famous as the place for trekking. Nepal is rich in mountains and people have finally begun to enjoy these vast landscapes through trekking. Some of the most famous trekking destinations in Nepal are Everest Region Trek, Annapurna Region Trek, and Langtang Region Trek.

Hundreds and thousands of trekkers choose these destinations every year. And this has now led these destinations to become mainstream. Even amidst the tall mountains and days’ worth of trekking routes, you will come across hundreds of fellow trekkers. While that’s not exactly a bad thing, there are other alternative trekking destinations if you’re someone like me who prefers quieter routes. Upper Mustang and Upper Dolpo are two amazing trekking destinations that are not as mainstream as other places.

Upper Mustang Trek

This trans-Himalayan region of Nepal offers a mesmerizing trekking experience. Your upper mustang trekking begins from Jomsom from where you will trek to Kagbeni>Chele> Lo Manthang>Chhuksang making all the way back to Jomsom. The trek is about 2 weeks long, and while exhausting it will be mesmerizing. The entire Upper Mustang is Tree-Less and you will enjoy the rocky trails while soaking in the breath taking view of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and other himalayas.

The trip to the Upper Mustang is definitely one to remember. Upper Mustang is also regarded as one of the last forbidden kingdom as the entire region was forbidden for outsiders until 1990.

Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo Trekking is another fascinating trekking route which requires you to go to Nepalgunj and travel to Dolpo from there. Dolpo is one of the most remote locations in Nepal. Due to this you will find the villages here to be isolated from the modernization and thus hinting the sense of purity. Like Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo also offers vast never ending landscapes that will definitely make an impression on you.

Upper Dolpo was only opened for trekkers after 1989, and the region has seen enthusiastic trekkers every year since that time. You will also witness gigantic mountain ranges such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Kanjirowa via your trekking route. Another mesmerizing scene you will enjoy via this route is the SheyPhoksundolake. At one of the remotest locations on the earth, this lake is as beautiful as they come.

Combined Trek of Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang

If you’re looking for something truly adventurous, you could even trek the entire upper dolpo and upper mustang in one go. You will travel to Nepalgunj and then to Dolpo from where you will start your trekking. Starting from Dolpo, you will end your trek in Jomsom trekking via Ghami La pass and Lomanthang.

These are the places where Bon and Tibetian Buddhism prospered side by side many years ago. You will witness culture and experience spirituality in the purest form. This trek will adventurous, thrilling, and definitely not crowded. You should definitely step away from the mainstream and experience true trekking in Nepal.