A
kingdom within a kingdom. The previously forbidden
kingdom of Mustang lies on the leeward side of
Himalayan range, jutting out into the Tibetian
highland plateau, to the north of Pokhara and
Jomsom. This isolated arid region has remained
untouched for centuries.
The
capital is Lo-Monthang (which in Tibetan means
"plain of aspiration"). In the Land of Lo
life goes on as it has for centuries. The culture
of Mustang is distinctly Tibetan. With numerous
Gompas (monasteries) and omnipresent prayer
flags performing their eternal ritual, a trip
into Mustang is bound to be one of self-realization,
inspired by the ancient Buddhist cultures. This
area can be trekked all year round regardless
of season. August is perhaps the mildest month
of all for Mustang. However, there is usually
30cm to 40cm of snow in winter. This, of course,
adds challenge to the adventure.
Visiting
Mustang involves a reasonable bit of trekking,
starting with a flight from Kathmandu to Jomsom
via Pokhara. This trek is for those in reasonable
good physical condition. People who wish to include
the Annapurna region in their trek into Mustang
can start their trek from Pokhara to Jomsom or
the south passes along the bank of the Kaligandaki
river towards Kagbeni. On the route, the trail
crosses the villages of Tangbe, Samar, Geling
and reach Tsarang that is considered as one of
the most interesting palce of the trip.
In
ancient (about 800yrs old) Tsarang, a set of human
hands remain, said to belong to the site’s
master builder. According to the legends, the
king cut the builder’s hands off to prevent
them from constructing another master piece to
rival it.
The
walled capital, Lo-Monthang (situated at 12,
400 feet) is dominated by old Buddhist monasteries.
On the return journey, visit Muktinath, one of
the holiest temples for Hindus. From there trek
to Jomsom from where fly to Pokhara on the way
back to Kathmandu. |
