Monasteries in Upper Mustang Trek, Names of Buddhist Monastery in Upper Mustang

Trip Overview

Upper Mustang, located in the remote region of north-central Nepal, is a fascinating destination known for its unique culture, stark landscapes, and historical significance. Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, bordering Tibet (China) to the north. The region is characterized by its arid, desert-like landscape with deep gorges, towering cliffs, and unique rock formations.

The area ranges from 3,000 meters (9,842 feet) to over 5,000 meters (16,404 feet) above sea level, with the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang at an elevation of around 3,840 meters (12,600 feet). Upper Mustang was once part of the ancient Kingdom of Lo, established in 1380 by Ame Pal. Lo Manthang, the capital, still retains its medieval charm with its walled city, palaces, and monasteries.

The culture, language, and traditions of Upper Mustang are closely tied to Tibetan Buddhism. The region’s isolation has helped preserve its unique Tibetan culture, with many monasteries, festivals, and traditional practices still in place.

Upper Mustang was restricted to outsiders until 1992. Even today, it requires a special permit for entry, helping to protect its cultural heritage and limit tourism impact.

The Upper Mustang Trek is a unique adventure that takes you through one of the most remote and culturally preserved regions of Nepal. The Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal offers a unique experience with its stark landscapes, rich Tibetan culture, and ancient monasteries.

Here are the names of the famous monasteries you can visit along the Upper Mustang trek:

1. Lo Gekar Monastery
Location: Near Lo Manthang
Significance: One of the oldest Tibetan monasteries in the world, built in the 8th century by the famous Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava). It is said to predate the famous Samye Monastery in Tibet.

2. Chhoser Cave Monastery
Location: Chhoser, near Lo Manthang
Significance: These ancient caves were used as dwellings and later transformed into monasteries. The site offers a glimpse into the unique living style of ancient Tibetan communities.

3. Thubchen Monastery
Location: Lo Manthang
Significance: Built in the 15th century, this monastery is renowned for its large assembly hall and ancient frescoes. It is an important center for the Sakya sect of Tibetan Buddhism.

4. Jampa Lhakhang (Jampa Gompa)
Location: Lo Manthang
Significance: Also known as the “God House,” it dates back to the 15th century and is dedicated to Maitreya, the future Buddha. The monastery houses a large statue of Maitreya and is known for its intricate murals.

5. Ghar Gompa
Location: Near the village of Ghami
Significance: Also known as Lo Gekar Monastery, it is one of the oldest monasteries in Nepal, dating back to the 8th century. It is an important pilgrimage site, believed to fulfill the wishes of those who visit.

6. Chodey Monastery
Location: Lo Manthang
Significance: The main monastery of Lo Manthang, serves as a central hub for religious activities. It is known for its vibrant festivals and rich collection of religious artifacts.

7. Tsarang Monastery (Charang Monastery)
Location: Tsarang
Significance: Built-in 1378, it is one of the largest monasteries in Upper Mustang. It features a five-story building with an extensive library of Buddhist scriptures and beautifully painted mandalas.

These monasteries are not just places of worship but also hold historical, cultural, and architectural significance, providing trekkers with a deep insight into the Tibetan Buddhist culture of the region.

ITINERARY OF UPPER MUSTANG TREK INCLUDING MONASTERY VISIT

Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu International Airport. You will be met by our Tour officer and he will escort you to the hotel. Orientation of the trip at the hotel. Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Guided Sightseeing tour of Two World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. Preparation of the trekking. Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu. Meal: Breakfast.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, 200 km west of Kathmandu by Tourist Bus. Driving 7/8 hours. Evening stroll around Lake Street Market. Overnight at Hotel in Pokhara. Meal: Breakfast.
Day 4: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (Alt. 2720 meters). Flight 30 minutes. Trekking from Jomsom to Kagbeni (2804 meters). Walking 3 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 5: Trekking from Kagbeni to Chele (Alt. 3050 meters). Average of Walking 6 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 6: Trekking from Chele to Syangbochen (Alt. 3800 meters). Average of Walking 6 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 7: Trekking from Syangbochen to Ghami (Alt. 3520 meters). Average of Walking 5 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 8: Trekking from Ghami to Tsarang (Also called Charang) (Alt. 3560 meters). Average of Walking 4 hours. Sightseeing in Tsarang. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 9: Trekking from Tsarang to Lo Manthang (Alt. 3840 meters). Average of Walking 5 hours. Evening explores Lo Manthang city. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 10: Day trip to Chhoser Cave. Visit the Cave and Monastery. Then back to Lo Manthang. Average of walking 6 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 11: Trekking from Lo Manthang to Dhakmar to Ghami (Alt. 3520 meters). Average of Walking 7 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 12: Trekking from Ghami to Chungsi Cave to Samar (Alt. 3650 meters). Average of walking 7 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 13: Trekking from Samar to Kagbeni (Alt. 2720 meters). Average of Walking is 6 to 7 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 14: Trekking from Kagbeni to Jomsom. Average of walking 3 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 15: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara. Rest of the day at leisure in Pokhara. Overnight at Hotel in Pokhara. Meal: Breakfast
Day 16: Drive back from Pokhara to Kathmandu by Tourist Bus. In the evening complimentary farewell dinner at an authentic Nepalese Restaurant in Kathmandu with cultural dances of different communities of Nepal. Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu. Meal: Breakfast & Dinner.
Day 17: Departure to your home country. Our tour officer will drop you at the Kathmandu International Airport and see you off. End of Service.

Please contact us by email at [email protected] or WhatsApp at +977 9851203181 for any further information about Upper Mustang Trek, its cost, or if any questions. Once we receive your message, we get back to you within 24 hours.

Excellent Himalaya Trek and Expedition: Leading Operator of Upper Mustang Trek 

Excellent Himalaya Trek is the leading trekking operator of Nepal authorized by the Tourism Ministry, Nepal Government. It is run by local tourism experts and Sherpas of Nepal. We have been handling many tourists from around the world trekking to the Himalayas of Nepal as their ground-handling operator. Should you require further information about  Upper Mustang Trek, or for booking this trip please feel free to contact us.

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