10 Fascinating Reasons Why Mustang Is So Unique and it made it to the New York Times 2024 List. Mustang is an interesting place that combines natural and cultural features. Situated in the Himalayas of northern Nepal, it is a part of the Gandaki Province and shares borders with Tibet to the north. Rich culture, historic monasteries, stunning scenery, and the Upper Mustang Region’s capital, Lo Manthang, a protected city, are all well-known highlights of Mustang. The region is often referred to as Nepal’s “Forbidden Kingdom.”
Similarly, the New York Times recently ranked Mustang 37th out of 52 attractive locations for 2024. Because of its alluring geographic distribution and natural consistency, it is also one of the most popular travel destinations for people of all ages worldwide. Mustang is an exciting trip for individuals who are curious about history, culture, and adventure.
The following reasons may help you understand why Mustang is so unique and why it is one of the New York Times’ top 2024 travel destinations:
Mustang Region’s Unique Terrain
The Mustang region of Nepal is a geographically varied region with a distinctive topography that varies from lush river valleys to high-altitude deserts. The Upper Mustang and Lower Mustang are its two primary divisions. With the world’s deepest valley formed by the Kali Gandaki River, Lower Mustang is an enchanting natural environment. The Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges can be seen in this region.
Upper Mustang is a magical, once-forbidden kingdom. The Lo people continue to practice their old customs and culture. High-altitude desert Upper Mustang has red cliffs, sandy dunes, dry plateaus, and narrow valleys around majesty valleys. In addition, this area’s landscape differs greatly from that of other well-known hiking routes, such as Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, and Manaslu Base Camp.
Diverse Culture
Mustang is a region rich in culture, with a long history of Buddhism and a significant Tibetan influence. The region’s numerous historic monasteries, temples, and caverns display distinctive artwork and architectural design. This region’s inhabitants also celebrate several holidays and traditions that are indicative of their unique culture and perspective. A few of the celebrations are Yartung, Lhosar, and Tiji. The region’s distinctive food, attire, and handicrafts are influenced by its major surroundings and topography. Additionally, one of the major celebrations that the people of Mustang celebrate every year is the Tiji Festival.
The Walled City of Lo Manthang
Upper Mustang’s capital city is Lo Manthang. The city is fortified and has a lengthy past. The region’s numerous historic monasteries, temples, and caverns display distinctive artwork and architectural design. Furthermore, Lo Manthang is the last forbidden kingdom in Nepal since it preserves the old customs and culture of the Lo people. Tibetans are closely linked to the Lo people.
The region boasts breathtaking scenery, including steep gorges, high-altitude deserts, and Himalayan vistas. The most vivid and colorful festivals, such as Tiji and Yartung, are also observed by the inhabitants here. It’s also a fascinating place to go hiking with a variety of routes and exciting experiences.
Upper Mustang – A Restricted Area
The Mustang region has been designated as a restricted area by authorities in order to provide protection, in recognition of its rich cultural history, distinctive traditions, and diversified topography. The Mustang region is recognized as a restricted area in order to preserve its varied topography, rich cultural legacy, and distinctive customs. Due to the presence of approximately 10,000 artificial sky caves, including sky tombs, monasteries, shelters, and more, Mustang has significant archeological importance. Similarly, enormous antique artifacts and works of art require preservation.
Additionally, the Lo people’s customs and culture are preserved by Mustang’s unique and rich cultural legacy. The management of tourism in Upper Mustang is crucial for preserving and honoring these cultural components and keeping outside influences and changes at bay.
Upper Mustang is the place with the greatest restrictions. Similarly, international visitors require permission and a guide from the Nepali government to access Mustang Valley, Upper Mustang.
Ancient Monasteries
The Mustang Valley has a long history of Buddhism and is heavily influenced by Tibet. The art and architecture of several old monasteries, or gompas, are in sight. The following are a few well-known monasteries in Mustang Valley:
Dragkar Thegchen Ling Gompa
Dragkar Thegchen Ling Gompa, constructed in the thirteenth century, is the biggest and most well-known monastery in the Lo Manthang area. Nevertheless, the monastery is home to a few of the strong lamas.
Jampa Monastery
Among the three monasteries situated in the heart of Lo Manthang, Jampa Monastery is one of the principal gompas. Built in the fourteenth century, it is embellished with 109 mandalas painted in turquoise, silver, and gold.
Thubchen Gompa:
The monastery was built in the fifteenth century, and its enormous assembly hall, which has a gilded dome and a 45-foot-tall statue of Lord Buddha, was one of its main features. It also has a library with several antiquated manuscripts.
Luri Gompa:
Located in the center of Yara, Luri Gompa is a 13th-century cave monastery. The monastery is home to a distinctive 13-ring stupa. It also features a large number of god statues and paintings.
Ghar Gompa:
Dating back to the eighth century, Ghar Gompa is one of Mustang’s oldest monasteries. The footprint of the Tibetan Buddhist founder, Guru Rinpoche, is thought to have mediated here in the past.
In addition to being places of prayer, these monasteries serve as important historical and cultural reminders of the Lo people. These monasteries combine spirituality, culture, history, and scenic beauty to provide an exciting experience.
Trekking in the Upper Mustang
Through the Mustang Valley’s forbidden kingdom, the Upper Mustang Trek offers an unforgettable experience. Offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas, the Kali Gandaki River, and the valley, this walk is a secluded and culturally rich trekking path in Nepal that highlights the significance of Tibetan Buddhist culture. The Mustang District’s headquarters, Jomsom, is where the journey starts. You may see historic caverns and monasteries as well as a variety of scenic vistas throughout the trek. In addition, you may take part in vibrant celebrations and festivities and get a taste of the warmth and way of life of the Lo people.
Isolated Region
Behind the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan peaks is Mustang, which is located in the nation’s north-central region. Because of its harsh terrain, historical significance, and geographic location, it is one of the most isolated regions. It is isolated from the outside world as it is also one of the least inhabited areas of the Himalayas.
Yartung Festival and Tiji
Two of Upper Mustang’s most well-known and vibrant festivals are Tiji and Yartung. Tiji is a three-day celebration that includes mask dancers honoring the triumph of virtue over evil, drumming, and the chanting of Buddhist monks. The Upper Mustang Tiji Festival is thought to have started about 500 years ago to commemorate Buddha’s triumph over local demons that caused droughts while he was a manifestation of Dorje Sonnu.
Similarly, Yartung, which heralds the end of summer and the harvest season, is a celebration of the horsemanship of the people. This celebration features drinking, dancing, horse racing, and praying. On the August full moon, the Yartung celebration is held in several Mustang locations, including Lo Manthang, Khimkar, Jharkot, and Ranipauwa.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Trekking across Nepal’s varied landscapes is an exciting and fulfilling cultural experience, particularly the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The journey leads to the magnificent Thorong La Pass by round the magnificent Annapurna ranges. The journey will cross the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge, through the Mustang Valley in addition to the Annapurna Circuit journey. The valley is encircled by the majestic peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. Along with experiencing other cultures, you’ll get to know Gurungs, Thakalis, and Lopas. In addition, you may take in the rich Tibetan Buddhist culture of Manang Village and see the revered Muktinath Temple.
Muktinath Temple
For Buddhists and Hindus, the Muktinath Temple in the Mustang area is a sacred place. At 3,800 meters (12467.19 feet) above sea level, it is one of the tallest temples in the world. The temple is also devoted to Vishnu, who is revered as the lord of freedom, Muktinath. The temple has a 45-foot figure of Vishnu and a pagoda-style building, complete with a golden roof. To atone for their sins and find salvation, travelers bathe at the 108 water spouts. In addition, it is surrounded by the Kali Gandaki River and the Himalayan Mountains. It is also the historic route used for salt commerce between India and Tibet.
Ten Must-See Sites During the Mustang Tour
The Mustang region is well-known for its striking scenery, historic monasteries, and dynamic Tibetan culture. On the other hand, the following are a few of the attractions you really shouldn’t miss while on the Mustang tour:
Choser Cave, Ghar Gompa, Lo Manthang, Jomsom, Kagbeni, Muktinath Temple, Dhakmar, Tsarang, Mustang Eco Museum, Sky Cave
Mustang is the place you should go if you want an experience that transports you back in time. Discover its breathtaking vistas, historic monasteries, and vibrant celebrations. Although Mustang is not easily accessible, the effort is worthwhile. This journey will test you, motivate you, and provide you with opportunities to create priceless memories once you finish it. Thus, don’t miss this chance to see one of Nepal’s most fascinating historical sites.
Mustang is a part of Dhaulagiri Zone is one of the seventy-five districts of Nepal, a landlocked country of South Asia. Jomsom as its headquarters covers an area of 3,573 km² and has a population of 14,981 according to 2001 census. Mustang straddles the Himalayas and extends northward onto the Tibetan plateau.