Month: May 2024

The Nepal tour to Soti Khola—it’s where your 14 days of trekking in Manaslu begin. Are you excited to travel with us to where your Soti Khola destination arrives? Grab your refreshing drink and wait for a while to catch up, because the upcoming journey is a bit tiresome and will take a toll on you in the Manaslu trekking region. 

If you have a knack for exploring the most remote villages in Manaslu, which are now commercializing due to an increase in trekking, sure, you are welcome! And Soti Khola is the landmark of the beginning of the wild adventure gaze while chasing the Mansiri Himalayan range. 

Why Soti Khola? 

Soti Khola is the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, located around 145 km away from Kathmandu. The secret getaway and the attractions are all behind you when you take an exhilarating jeep or bus ride to Arughat and continue the drive to the most exciting beginning, Soti Khola. 

Let me tell you, the adventure is daring, taking you to exotic scenery following a bumpy ride from Kathmandu to Sotikhola. Some driving routes are still remote and are prone to landslides. 

The reason is very clear, it rests in natural landscapes with hills and trees, and commercialization is not properly executed in terms of infrastructure. 

But the good part is that the remoteness of Soti Khola, its traditional charm, and the endless beauty beckon of Manaslu continue to sing their way out on the pine and oak forests of the Manaslu trekking route. Start your trekking in Manaslu at the terraced field in Sotikhola with a friendly trekking guide, who can ground you to the core of the adventure itself.   

Soti Khola: The Journey to trekking routes in Manaslu starts here

Soti Khola, the starting point for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, can be reached via an 8-hour jeep ride from Kathmandu. While the road distance is only 87 miles (around 145 km) from Kathmandu, the bumpy roads can be a little challenging and serve as a fitting start to a great adventure that awaits in the Mansiri Himalayan range. 

Choose a reputed trekking company that will book all your transfers, arrange the necessary facilities, and help you have a better trekking experience on the Manaslu Circuit trek. If you are looking for an affordable option, booking online bus tickets for local buses from Kathmandu to SotiKhola with basic facilities can minimize extra expenses on your part.  

1.  By private transfer of 6+ hours, you reach Arughat, from which the distance is just a few kilometers. 
2. One can take locally operated jeeps or small vans from Arughat if opting for a public bus, (around 2 hours to reach). Off-road and the cheapest mode of travel, along with the silent noise of the running water current. 
3. If you have a group, you can hire private vehicles like the Totoyo Hilux Jeep to take you to Soti Khola. 
4. crossing of wooden suspension bridges, the local buses, and friendly locals help you know about the ideal road conditions for the trek. 

You can ride on a local bus from Kathmandu to Sotikhola for a more safe and comfortable option. By slightly moving over the budget, your destination can be planned based on your comfort with the Manaslu Guide team. We arrange your porter and top guide for you and give you an anthem of your own with a first-hand encounter with the promising landscapes of Manaslu.  

Briefly describe the drive from Kathmandu to Soti khola 

It’s exciting to be a part of the journey from Kathmandu to the entry point of the Manaslu trekking region. A drive to Soti khola starts as you follow the Prithivi Highway, a road that connects Kathmandu and Pokhara. The drive is speculated to take between 8 and 10 hours, again subject to traffic conditions. 

During festivity time, Dashain-Tihar, the traffic is real, especially, in October and November. The road starts to be well-maintained up until Dhading, and some progressively deteriorating road conditions are seen in the rural and remote part when you come close to Gorkha district. The bumpy roads give you the ancient tale of how people used to struggle for infrastructure in the Manaslu region and still do. 

But what is explored best with feet in SotiKhola and the Manaslu villages, like Jagat, Samdo, and Samagaun, is not possible with a ride. The Nubri Valley, the heart of Manaslu, is popular for its ethnic villages, Ribum monastery, and stress-buster accommodation stops for trekkers who come to chase Manaslu, Naike Peak, and Himalchuli on the left. These views make up for the lack of comfort on the driving route from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, where you approach a more remote part. 

Soti khola to Machha Khola trek distance & altitude

Whether you are on a Mustang or Manaslu adventure, you are through this essential beginning trekking point, Soti Khola. It takes about 200 meters of elevation gain and 14.1 km/8.7 miles to reach the uphills of Machha Khola, crossing the Budhi Gandaki River. 

Manaslu adventure is a ticked-off bucket list once you follow Soti Khola up to the Manaslu base camp, sightseeing the remote Narphu Valley, Samagaun, and the lesser-known Manaslu village. The blue river with its views is worth starting as you continue your journey to the eighth highest peak, Manaslu, and discover its unusual magic in the villages in the base area. 

The trek following Soti Khola passes through rough and steep mule tracks; it also includes crossing of several long metal suspension bridges, oak and rhododendron forests, ethnic villages, green hills, glaciers, and the dramatic trekking route of Manaslu, concurrently passing the high glacial saddles and the Larkya La pass (5100m).

Accommodation options in Soti Khola Nepal

The overall experience of staying in Soti Khola Nepal is good, with some pluses and minuses. Let’s list some of the accommodation options in Soti Khola which I prefer, 

1. Satkar Guest House
2. Tsum Valley Guest House
3. Hotel Fulbari Lodge and Restaurants
4. Green Valley Guest House
5. ABC Guest House

The homestays, lodges, and hotels in SotiKhola are over a dozen, operated by locals, and even commercialized in partnership with the best trekking companies in Nepal. You are served hot soups on cold days; savor delicacies of Magar and Gurung cuisines like Tarul (yam) with spices, sekuwa, raksi, batuk roti, and Nepali thali with the fusions of western cuisines. 

Final words on Soti Khola and Manaslu Trek (Nepal)

The government of Nepal requires a special permit to visit the Manaslu trekking area, i.e., a Manaslu Restricted Area permit. There is other necessary paperwork, like a TIMS card and a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, which the trekking guide helps you arrange. 

Contact the Manaslu guide team for ground transportation for the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek and circuit trek updates for 2024–2025. The next thing we talk more about is other famous stops at the Manaslu trekking route: Larke Bazaar, Lokpa, Nepal, Bumthang, Nyak, Chumling, Mu Gompa, Samdo, Samagaun , Lho, and Machhakhola. 

The monsoon in Nepal brings colors and greenery and paints the landscapes with green, grey, and yellow hues, with the iconic sun and rainbow after the water just stops. The pleasing smell of wet mud, enchanting rivers, luscious landscapes, and incredible waterfalls offer a unique experience.

Though the path can be slippery, the demand for monsoon adventure in nature strolling is beyond explanation. Love blossoms in the monsoon and when you can have a cozy night with lush greenery on the balcony of your favorite resort, that’s a vacation time to stay with your beau in mild rain during the monsoon. With cocktails and our favorite wine, fine dining can also be couples’ best experience in the monsoon in Nepal. 

What are the best places to visit in the monsoon in Nepal? 

If you are looking for the monsoon rain to set off, here are some top visit-worthy places. Even though leeches could be present, by simply avoiding them, you can make the most of the greenery in the nearby hill station, like Nagarkot, located 32 km east of Nagarkot. 

We have prepared a list of top Monsoon-friendly tour places in Nepal. Let’s see why the after-rain time makes these the best places to visit in the monsoon in Nepal. 

1. Nagarkot 

Nagarkot is the nearby hill station from Kathmandu, which offers panoramic views of mountains like Mount Annapurna, Ganesh Himal, and Mount Everest. Visitors can relax in the ambiance of a cozy resort, such as Hotel Mystic Himalaya or Club Himalaya Nagarkot Resort, and make the most of their visit during the monsoon in Nepal. 

With its closer proximity to Kathmandu, just 32 km from the heart of the city, you can enjoy hiking, short treks, and outdoor adventures in a serene environment after rain with slight precipitation in Nagarkot. Chisapani Nagarkot hiking takes you to the traditional villages, ancient temples, and beautiful sunrise and sunset destinations in Nepal. 

What will be alluring is the earthy scent of damp soil and vibrant green life. It is an interesting combination of raindrops on the blades of grass that just helps you celebrate the aftermath of the rain. Nagarkot Geodetic Survey Tower is the highest point where you can sightsee the whole Kathmandu valley.

The winter season can bring snow to Nagarkot and people come here to see the snow and spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas. The top choice for Nagarkot is its beautiful location, making it suitable to trek, explore the waterfalls, and take you to the greener side of city life, with views of Langtang, Rolwaling, Everest, Numbur, and Jugal Himalayas. 

2. Ilam 

Ilam is located in the Mahabharata hilly range in the eastern region of Nepal. This hill district lies at an altitude of 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) to 3,636 meters (11,929 feet) above sea level. Ilam was one of the ten self-ruling states of Limbuwan before Nepal’s reunification. The tea cultivation in Ilam was initiated in 1863 as the Ilam Tea Estate. 

It was only in 1982 that the five districts of Ilam, Jhapa, Dhankuta, Panchthar, and Terhathum were combined, known as the tea zones of Nepal. Ilam is best known for its sightseeing and attractions like Mai Pokhari Lake, sites like Gajur Mukhi ( Bhagwati temple), and Antu Danda, an outstanding vantage point in Ilam. 

From the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, the regular bus also operates to Ilam. You can also hire a private vehicle, while an air ticket can take you to the nearest airport to Ilam, Bhadrapur Airport, which is 92 kilometers away from Kanyam, Ilam Tea Garden. 

Take a day tour of the tea garden and enjoy the rain while reading a book at your hotel on a rainy evening—a perfect monsoon activity served with a hot cup of tea. It’s up to you to make your day fruitful when the weather forecast shows minimalistic rain predictions in the monsoon in Nepal.

3. Pokhara 

The monsoon rain does pose a challenge to outdoor activities in Pokhara but one can find a peaceful retreat in a less-crowded season in Pokhara. Visitors can savor traditional Nepali dishes, explore the Pokhara Regional Museum and Gurkha Memorial Park, and enjoy the backdrop of greenery in Pokhara. The Seti River George is one of the city’s natural beauties. It is among the best places to visit in the monsoon when the temples have risen in water level with extra green and extra magic in this lakeside city. 

Mountain Glory Forest Resort and Spa, Waterfront Resort, Temple Tree Resort, and Pokhara Lodge are some of the top places to visit during the monsoon in Pokhara, Nepal. You can choose to stay at a lakeside location with a terrace, lounge, room service, and even a spa on the hotel premises when the outside is running. 

These resorts are suitable for families with children and dining options also include multinational cuisines, still inspired by Nepali taste buds. The prices in high-rated resorts can range from  $105 per night. But you can also have a deal at mid-range stay places in Monsoon in Nepal, starting at $10 (Nepali rupees 1300 to 1500) per night. 

4. Suburb area in Monsoon 

If you are still confused about the monsoon attractions in Nepal, the Lumbini, Upper Mustang, and Annapurna circuit regions can bring the colors you knew never existed. Farmers are more than happy to welcome monsoon rain in Nepal. Planning a trip to the monsoon means being prepared for mild to huge rainfall in Nepal during this season. 

The visitors can be part of the harvest season of the year and watch the traditional methods of ploughing, farming, and rice planting on their trip. Wander around the suburbs region where the wet streets have an earthy scent for you to lose your senses( obviously in a good way) as you feel this smell dear and “home”! Olfactophilia is when you love the smell of something that your emotions arouse. 

Why monsoon can be a unique time to explore Nepal? 

The monsoon season can be a unique time when vibrant colors paint the landscapes with coats of green. You can see the waterfall and rivers dancing out and coming alive, making it a cleaner and more refreshing time of the year. 

There are fewer crowds, spectacular sunrises, and rainbows in the clouds, with the play of light and colors in the surroundings. Temples, shrines, and historic monuments remain open and are even safer to visit during the monsoon in Nepal. So, the best places to visit in the monsoon in Nepal are the Hindu God/Goddess temple, parks, Patan Durbar Square, Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. 

Tips to consider when visiting places in Monsoon 

When visiting the shortlisted places during monsoon season in Nepal, you need to be cautious about them to have a hassle-free experience. The first thing is to check the weather forecast, as heavy rain conditions are not ideal for you to plan a destination trip in Nepal. Choosing a four-wheeler is better than taking your bike, as potential risks arise during the monsoon season. 

Pack light and include rain gear. Even have insect repellent, and medications against fever, flu, and indigestion during this season. Monsoon can bring waterborne disease so be mindful about what you eat and drink to prevent food poisoning and check hygienic local restaurants to stay safe. Avoid drinking water from unreliable sources and carry water purification tablets to mitigate the risk that monsoons invite. 

Conclusion 

Monsoon travel can be confusing; you want to sit in bed and even have soothing views of greenery far away from you. That’s when a resort serves a purpose. You can also have budget travel with your better half and family, with pre-planning, and make the most of the offers during less-crowded monsoon season (getting wet and wild). 

Embrace spontaneity, prepare to be safe, and even participate in vibrant celebrations of the local community during the monsoon. There are prospects that this will become a more popular time to connect with nature ( with ounces of love oozing from the sky), except for the part where the unprecedented rain might trigger safety concerns. Inquire with Manaslu guide for more such interesting adventures, treks, and tourism throughout the season in Nepal. 

Summer is approaching. On this hot, warm day, do you also want to swim in a cold swimming pool, but something natural suits your taste? Well, here is what we have come across, the best natural swimming pools in Nepal.

In the true sense, the below-mentioned swimming spots (natural ones) can just be the pipelined summer adventure for all Nepalese. Even foreigners coming to experience the remote beauty and local lifestyle of Nepal want something cool, like a pool in the middle of the jungle with no polluted crowd that disturbs their peace.

There is a yin and yan side to the swimming pool in Nepal. The natural pool is exploited due to a lack of commercialization and conservation efforts, while these are the ones to cherish in their natural setting, the green water.

1. Kogate Sisneri Natural Swimming Pool in Nepal

The Sisneri Natural Swimming Pool in Nepal (Kogate, Makwanpur) is a real natural pool located about 35 km from Kathmandu. It’s hard to be unhappy when you have a sight of the green and natural surroundings in Sisneri, which is the best natural swimming spot near Kathmandu.

People describe it as a perfect place to spend a day away from Kathmandu Valley and Hetauda, with its natural pool, where memories and laughter echo. The crystal-clear flowing water in Sisneri has a sufficient depth for swimming. Noteworthy to mention, the sound of the natural swimming pool is healing, and it rests near a huge rock with an adventure, with beautiful landscapes and off-road rides.

An entrance fee of NPR 50 is charged at the natural pool. Here you get facilities like life jackets, vendor shops for snacks, and changing rooms that have been set up. 

While commercialization has its benefits, visitors need to be mindful of their impact and consume natural resources responsibly, without contributing to the degradation of the environment. The visitors may also face issues getting a safe parking space. 

If you want to go there, grab a Sisneri Route Map so you do not get lost ( well, you eventually get lost in the beauty! ) 

2. Bhootmul natural swimming pool in Nepal (Lele)

Bhootmul Natural Swimming Pool is located about 17 km from Gwarko, Lalitpur, following the Satdobato-Tikabhairab road. It’s briefly a 2.5-kilometer drive and about 45 minutes of hiking from the Lele Bus stop to reach there. This TikTok viral swimming pool in its natural location got hype on social media, on the banks of the Nakkhu River. 

On the tarmac hot weather, the shadow of trees is reflected by the pond, the natural spring, which gives untouched beauty to the natural world. Bhootmul is a natural swimming pool with a height of 10–12 feet, and one can dive from the top of the 8-meter tree for an amazing swimming experience. 

The chilled water can be dangerous, as one person has died here previously, and it is not suitable for beginners without a life jacket. In addition, the current state can be a concern, as this cleanest and coolest water source near Kathmandu has started to pollute over the years. 

Greenery is exploited early, but you can still visit here for a one-time experience. This small open pond can attract tourists if the concerned authority draws attention to its preservation, or else it will be a tale of extinct beauty. 

3. Pangdure Kurintar Natural Swimming Pool in Nepal

Pangdure Kurintar is a natural water slide and river spring associated with the waterfall. It’s a beautiful hiking spot near Kurintar, other than worshipping at Manakamana Temple. It takes you to Barsinghe Chitwan, where you hike to Pangdure Khola. You can have a picnic lunch in Kurintar, a small village located on the sandy banks of the Trisuli River, and visit the Manakamana temple. 

4. Dhodeni Chitwan Nawalparasi 

Dhodeni is a dam that is more sea green in color. It is a natural swimming pool located on the border of Chitwan and Nawalparasi. This natural swimming pool is located about 6 km away from the Maula Kalika Mandir of Gaindakot, Chitwan, via the Kalika Mandir Trail and the way to Dhodeni. The Dhodeni Natural Swimming Pool has limited hype and is untouched by urban eyes, but it is worth it to have a relaxing day out around Chitwan. 

5. Furse khola in Pokhara

Furse Khola to Chisapani Gaun—that is yet another adventure. On the tributary of the Seti Gandaki River, you find the best place to hang out and chill. This is a tributary of the Seti Gandaki River suitable for friends getting together and swimming dun. The best part is that it is a real natural pool. 

Furse Khola Natural Swimming in Kaski is a great place to bathe and swim when you navigate it with the locals. It is 5.6 km from Lakeside Pokhara to Furse Khola via the Siddhartha highway. The natural swimming pool is also known by its alternative bank name, Dovilla. It is about 11.6 kilometers from Phewa Taal Pokhara, accessible via Bagmara Road. You can take Panchase Marga and Baidam Rd./Lakeside Rd. to Thado Pasal Path and continue to Pardi Bazaar to reach Dovilla Pokhara. Dovilla Pokhara is one of the best natural swimming pool in Nepal (Pokhara).  

Besides swimming, you can enjoy activities like rock climbing, natural views of the scenery, and a refreshing dip at the pool, all surrounded by authentic beauty. Some boulders might interest you for wilder and wetter adventures in Nepal’s beautiful landscapes. 

You can also have staycations at Hotel Himalayan Inn, Sunshine Resort Pokhara, and a day excursion at Dovilla Khola, the natural swimming spot. Additionally, Ghatichhina- Harpan Khola and Madiwang Khola are other popular refreshing natural swimming spots in Pokhara, Nepal. 

Final words to protect Natural Swimming Pool in Nepal 

The best perk about swimming in a natural swimming pool in Nepal is that it is cooler than a chlorinated pool. These ponds help you relax, unlike the crowded pools. You can sunbathe for natural tanning on the banks of this swimming pool and have a rare glimpse at the protected beauty of this pool, located in tranquility on the urban side. 

The increasing number of visitors has raised some concerns about the preservation of natural swimming pools in Nepal. Moreover, there is a risk of the place being littered with waste, and during peak seasons like summer, it can get overcrowded, making it difficult to find parking. It’s an appeal for visitors to take responsibility for disposing of their waste properly and respecting the natural beauty of the place.

Conclusion 

Manaslu Guide is one of the best trekking companies and tour guides In Nepal. Do catch up for more such interesting blogs on waterfall day trips, best place for trekking shopping, and relaxing nature getaways. We cover food blogs, and travel, and also guide you to the best trekking experience in Nepal. For more such inquiries and requests, contact the Manaslu guide. 

Renting trekking gear in Kathmandu? We help you find a shopping facility with friendly staff and proper sports essentials at reasonable prices. From a Google search, we have jotted down some of the useful renting options and how you can get there. 

Trekking, shopping, and renting in the busy streets of Kathmandu can be a daunting task if you are new. You might not be aware of the renting culture and norms of this bustling street in Thamel. When it comes to shopping, choosing a reliable partner and researching in advance can save you time in Kathmandu and help you make a budget-friendly purchase. 

Where can I rent trekking gear in Kathmandu? 

Today in this blog, we discuss how trekking gear can be rented in Nepal, especially Kathmandu. We consider different outlets to be some of the best places to rent trekking gear—some of Kathmandu’s top-rated trekking gear rental stations.  

1. Himalayan Trekking Gear

Himalayan trekking gear located at Mandala Street, Kathmandu, is rated 4.7 stars and this is reviewed as one of the most noteworthy in terms of friendly staff. You can get similar ranges of trekking gear at outlets in Nepal, and the Himalayan trekking gear is relevantly affordable. 

You can rent sleeping bags suitable for different temperatures, from normal quality bags for -5°C to -10°C weather to high-quality, waterproof bags with fur lining for -10°C to -15°C conditions.

2. Himal Outdoor

Himal Outdoors Private Limited is located at two outlets. One is Thamel JP Road, and the other is Patan, Lalitpur, with the best facilities, which offers to rent trekking gear in Nepal. It has various sportswear and trekking essentials at convenient pricing and is rated 4.9 in terms of customers.

You can also find high-end North Face jackets, which can be provided for rental options. Renting trekking poles for support on the trekking trails is just the perfect way.

3. Kalapatthar Trekking Store

Kalapatthar Trekking Store is located at Satghumti Marga, Thamel, where you can get a range of trekking equipment on rent based on your needs.

They offer you high-quality sleeping bags, with minimum prices starting from $1 to $3 per day. It is best rated for down jackets, trekking poles, and hiking boots (almost all sizes available), catering to the needs of our trekking (from a few days to a longer trek).

If you are not a frequent trekker, then this can just be a savior for you to trust a reliable shop to get properly cleaned rental gear at a bargain price. While you can buy it back home too. 

4. Weather Trekking Gears

Weather Trekking Gear is one of the highest-rated trekking gear brands (5 stars with 57 reviews) in Nepal. It is a cloth and fabric manufacturer, allowing both buying, selling, and renting trekking gear options. Located in Chhusya Galli, Kathmandu, you can inquire with them about the rental policies, deposit amount, and return policies, while they also accept bargains respectfully.

5. Guide Himalaya Trekking gear

Guide Himalaya Trekking Gear is yet another trekking shop that sells and rents trekking gear for climbing expeditions, peak climbing, ice and rock climbing, and a desired adventure of your choice. From protective gear to technical equipment, you can find the gear in the vicinity of Kathmandu.

What is the cost of renting trekking gear in Kathmandu? 

If you want to rent trekking gear in Kathmandu, the higher the ratings and positive reviews, the better the reliability and quality of service. Have a closer look and list all the essential trekking items crucial for comfortable and safe treks in the higher altitudes of Nepal. Regarding the cost and budgeting part of trekking essentials, these are, 

Trekking items on rental	Approximate Rental Cost (NRs) per Day
Jackets and Clothing	300 – 1000
Trekking accessories (Hat, Buff)	50-150
Trekking Poles	100 – 200
Backpack	200- 300
Trekking shoes	200- 300 (but not recommended due to hygiene and fit concerns)
Sleeping Bag	200 – 500
Down jacket ( for mountain expeditions and high-altitude treks)	400 – 800

Top suggestions for renting trekking gear in Kathmandu

Renting trekking gear allows you to explore what’s on the Kathmandu market without having to pay the excess price for something you do not like to take back home. So, here are some key suggestions when you are on rental.

1. Explore a wide range of options before renting the final one

Visiting popular rental stores can be highly beneficial for tourists looking to rent trekking gear in Kathmandu, Nepal. These allow you to explore a wide range of trekking gear and also find something specific that could be necessary on the trek. 

2. Flexibility to choose rental items from reputed trekking stores

Reasons for visiting reputed stores are that rental items are usually well-maintained, cleaned, and high-quality ( also with premium rentals) at such outlets. This means you can conveniently find the ready rental gear and have an enjoyable experience, with the flexibility to choose a specific item of your preference on the trek without having to carry it from home.

3. Minimize out-of-pocket expenses

Renting trekking gear is no doubt a cost-effective option for budget travelers. You can also use expensive equipment on a rental basis; this will give you a smooth trekking experience without having to worry about out-of-pocket expenses. 

4. Space for Extra Trekking essentials

There are several other trekking essentials you might need, such as personal accessories, battery backup, sunscreen, toilet paper, a first aid kit, and permit documents, all of which you can manage by yourself when you have no hassle in trekking shopping. Just try and rent without worrying, if you are investing much in trekking gear, which you might or might not preserve for another travel adventure in life, in case you have doubts. 

What are the benefits of renting trekking gear in Kathmandu?

Renting trekking gear offers numerous benefits for those who are short on space and budget. But again, the decision ultimately varies based on trekking frequency, personal preferences, and personal comfort with the gear. 

• Renting trekking gear is more reasonable, especially for gear needed for a specific trip or one-time purpose. 
• Kathmandu has outdoor gear shops that offer rental services with well-maintained, cleaned, and even some premium trekking options. 
• If you are planning a multi-day trek with limited luggage options, renting can be a good way. 
• Reputable rental shops inspect the quality of the trekking gear with post-trek cleaning and maintenance, making it the best.
• Renting allows you to use trekking gear that you might not use frequently. 

Most importantly, renting gear allows you to test out higher-end gear to see if it is worth investing in in the future. You can get a more convenient way out where you do not need to check bulky gear on international flights; simply rent what you need for trekking in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Also, you can return it with rental charges once the trek is over, simply without the baggage. 

Conclusion 

Manaslu Guide helps you stay updated about real-time updates on trekking, brings out good deals on trekking packages, and does the research on your behalf. Likewise, today we explored renting gear essentials, budget, and the average rental price per day per item on trekking gear.

Manaslu Guide makes sure you get opportunities to see Nepal from different perspectives as you tune in to our blogs. We are here for you to arrange the most-awaited trekking in Nepal in terms of exceptional navigation services, the best-planned itinerary on Manaslu Circuit, and the most-awaited outdoor adventure. Inquire with us today for additional queries. 

Mustang Nepal, by god Grace, is a beautiful kingdom where history, culture, and natural grandeur speak like no other. Visitors, both domestic and international, come to visit here, but no word of mouth can ever explain what the divine beauty of Mustang looks like. 

1. Dhumba Lake in Mustang Nepal

Dhumba Lake is a serene and sacred lake located in the Thini Village of the Mustang district of Nepal. It rises as high as around 2,900 meters (9,500 feet) above sea level, making it an endeavoring high-altitude glacial lake. This unique “Heart-Shaped Lake,” Dhumba Taal, rests at the base of Mount Nilgiri.

The local Tibetan Buddhist community considers the lake a holy site. Even the locals shared a story about how the lake’s water once turned red for a long time. It was only after the Tibetan Buddhist ceremonies they conducted that it returned to its original color.

It will be unique on its own to explore and there are various legends and stories surrounding its origins and significance. Mustang Nepal has beautiful apple orchards and traditional mud houses in Thini village, and you can explore Leopard Cave, Jomsom View Tower, and the Mustang Eco Museum on the journey that awaits in Mustang.

Visitors can also visit the Kuchup Terenga Gompa, a monastery located about 15 minutes uphill from the lake. If you are someone who would not want to miss out on a beautiful 360-degree view of the area, this is a must-do.

2. Chhairo Gompa (Monastery) in Mustang 

Visit the Chhairo Gompa, a 16th-century monastery with beautiful murals, wooden carvings, and a serene ambiance. This monastery is steeped in history and offers insights into the spiritual practices of the region

The Chhairo region was once a crucial part of the salt trading route between Tibet and southern Nepal. Chhairo region, starting from nearby towns like Marpha or Tukuche, to explore the rugged terrain, hidden caves, and ancient monasteries that dot the landscape. If you are here, the must-try dish is the Yak burger, which gives you an amazing taste.

Chhairo Gompa is located at 2680 meters, about a 20-minute walk south of Marpha town in Mustang Nepal. It lies on the left bank of the Kali Gandaki River. You encounter this on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, and the holy monastery has been here since the 16th century, with the statues of Shakyamuni Buddha, his disciples Ananda and Sariputra, and the founder, Kusyo Chhiwang Thielen. 

Chhairo Monastery reflects the culture of Upper Mustang, with a traditional flat roof architecture that has a two-story gallery as the devotees and believers like it to have. The main shrine room, adjacent Padmasambhava chapel (Sanga Choling), and natural lighting in the gompa make it a suitable place to meditate. 

3. Chhema Lake

Chhema Lake rests serenely at 3,690 meters above sea level, a shimmering azure mirror reflecting the snow-covered Mount Nilgiri and Tilicho peaks. Formed with glacial meltwater, this crystalline lake water gives a good contrast to the deserted scenery of Mustang in Nepal. 

With the eternal glow of the lake and the secrets of each breeze, the picture comes out quite vibrant. It is surrounded by oak and pine forests with evergreen hues, adding to the epic composition of these natural landscapes. From here, the one trek to Shinta Mani Mustang is a must-trip in the 2024–2025 session.

4. Less explored trekking in Upper Mustang

Trekking in Mustang takes you to Upper Mustang and Lower Mustang treks. The key highlights of Upper Mustang take you from Jomsom to Muktinath, crossing the Gyu La Pass or taking an alternative trekking path from Kagbeni to Chungsi Cave. There are several places worth admiring the beauty of in the Mustang region, which includes Syanbochen. 

Ghiuling, Ghami, Drakmar, Ghar Gumba, Tsarang, and finally reaching the forbidden kingdom of Lho- Manathang at an altitude of 3840 m above sea level. The exciting part is that you get closer to Choser Cave, near the Tibetan border, if you take a different return route. There is Luri Gumba, Yara Ghara, Tange, Tetanbg, and another major stop point at the villages in Mustang that one cannot miss out on for the ultimate fun.

The temperature in Mustang varies; the Upper Mustang, located at high altitudes, has a relatively cold temperature compared to the Lower Mustang. Meanwhile, the temperature can drop to as low as -25°C in the winter in Mustang. The average daytime temperature can range from about  8 to 10 °C; if it’s a hot, sunny day, the temperature can get to a maximum of 20 °C unless global warming shows its extra weather conditions.

5. Jharkot Village in Mustang Nepal

Trek to Jharkot; visit Red Gompa (3,519 m); all these are involved in the Lower Mustang Trek. Far away from the city of chaos, you reach the peaceful villages of Mustang, but the Jomsom area could be crowded due to people who want to visit Muktinath temple. 

Jharkot (झारकोट) is one of the most-explored villages in Mustang district, at an elevation of 3519m between Kagbeni. It is quite popular because it has the Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site of Muktinath, meaning the temple of Moksha. A soul gets blessings and freedom from the eternal life cycle after taking a bath at the 108 taps of this temple. 

Interacting with the local session includes culturally Tibetan (Bhotias), Gurung, and Thakuri ethnic groups living in this region. The traditional form of agro-pastoralism is seen where one cultivates seasonal vegetables, buckwheat, and barley and keeps livestock like goats, sheep, and horses. 

The semi-arid Mustang Valley can only sustain itself for 6 months with its local production, as the farming system depends on meltwater from snow and ice-covered peaks for irrigation. Seasonal migration, tourism, and apple orchards are major livelihoods for the people of Mustang, as these are more flexible than less fruitful agricultural production in this deserted landscape.

6. Lubra, the Hidden Bon Village of Lower Mustang Nepal

There is a secret village called Lubra in the Lower Mustang region of Nepal. It’s like the name itself suggests the dramatic cliffs that look great when frozen like a snake coiled around the valley. Pretty interesting, ain’t it?

Lubra is one of nineteen villages in the Baragaon area, underneath the Lo Manathang. It rests above the Thak Khola valley, and there is more to Lubra. Yungdung Phuntsok Ling Monastery, the Masked Dancing Festival, and meditation caves and temples can all be explored when you sign up for the trekking route in the Mustang region. 

The Mustang region is experiencing a rise in tourism, all thanks to a special project called the Mustang Bon Homestay Village, where the whole community works together to show visitors their unique culture and traditions, all while keeping tourism sustainable.

More interesting facts on Lubra village in Mustang Nepal

One can take a short hike along the Panda Khola River to the hidden Tibetan Khampa army camp used by rebels in the 1960s. It needs the crossing of Lubra Pass, about 2 hours north of Lubra village. It’s interesting as the valley in itself has this huge Thorong La Pass and some less challenging local passes that differentiate the villages. 

That’s not just it Lubra village has a secret connecting path to the stunning Tilicho Lake, a little dangerous but perfect for those who seek more magic and adventure on the unexplored trekking routes. Let’s not spoil but obviously in a group for safety concerns. 

There is a small Bon temple in the periphery of the Lubra village, known as Gon Phuk, which is also known by its other name, “winter cave.” The name is more popular than the original one; there is surely a mystery, which we will unveil later in further interactions with the locals in the Mustang region. However, it’s such a retro theme that we cannot afford to miss it.

Conclusion 

Today we discussed some unheard, unseen, and lesser-known places in the Mustang region. It is just beautiful and Kagbeni and Muktinath temples are its ultimate jewels, but we tried to include some interesting extended side trips that you want to explore beyond the mundane, which is what all visitors strive for. 

Mustang is not just a one-time thing; it unveils beauty in its every facet, so try to uncover an exciting and lesser-known Mustang adventure with the Manaslu guide in Nepal. Inquire with us; as we have the most amazing blogs and packages, that might just be the one for you.