Dreaming of windswept landscapes, ancient monasteries clinging to cliffsides, and a taste of Tibetan culture without the hassle of a Chinese visa? Look no further than Upper Mustang, Nepal. This restricted region, once a kingdom in its own right, offers a unique trekking experience unlike anywhere else in the Himalayas. But navigating this remote area requires careful planning, especially when it comes to accommodation. Forget luxurious hotels; Upper Mustang is all about the charm and simplicity of tea houses. This guide, updated for July 20, 2025, will give you the inside scoop on the best tea houses along the Upper Mustang trek, helping you plan an unforgettable adventure, even on a budget trekking trip.
Planning a trip to Upper Mustang, especially during the summer/monsoon season, requires careful consideration of the weather and trail conditions. While the monsoon brings greenery to the valleys, it can also make some trails slippery and challenging. Therefore, choosing the right tea houses for your overnight stays becomes even more crucial. This guide will help you find comfortable and reliable accommodation options, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trek even if you’re looking for an affordable hiking experience.
Essential Tea House Information for Upper Mustang Trekking
Tea houses are the lifeblood of the Upper Mustang trekking route. These family-run establishments provide basic but comfortable accommodation, hearty meals, and a chance to connect with the local culture. Don’t expect frills – think simple rooms with twin beds, shared bathrooms (often squat toilets), and warm, home-cooked food. Electricity is usually available (sometimes solar-powered), so you can charge your devices, but it’s always wise to bring a power bank. Wi-Fi is increasingly common, but don’t rely on it, especially further north. Embrace the digital detox!
Understanding Tea House Etiquette
Before diving into specific tea houses, let’s cover some essential etiquette. Remember that these are homes first and businesses second. Be respectful of the family, remove your shoes before entering common areas, and always ask before taking photos of people. Bargaining for room rates is generally not acceptable, but you can sometimes negotiate slightly on meal prices if you’re staying for an extended period. Most importantly, be patient and understanding; things move at a different pace in Upper Mustang.
Recommended Tea Houses Along the Classic Upper Mustang Route
The classic Upper Mustang trek typically takes 10-12 days, starting in Jomsom and ending in Lo Manthang (the capital). Here’s a breakdown of some recommended tea houses along the most common route, keeping cheap Nepal trek options in mind.
Kagbeni: Gateway to Upper Mustang
Kagbeni, the last village before entering the restricted area, is a good place to acclimatize and prepare for the trek ahead. Here are a couple of options:
- Yac Donald Hotel: Despite the quirky name, this tea house offers clean rooms, hot showers (a rarity!), and a good selection of food. Expect to pay around NPR 1000-1500 per night for a double room.
- Red House Lodge: Located near the iconic Red Monastery, this lodge has a more traditional feel and offers stunning views. Prices are similar to Yac Donald.
Pro Tip: Kagbeni is known for its apple orchards. Don’t miss the chance to try fresh apple pie or apple cider!
Chele: Entering the High Desert
Chele marks the beginning of the truly dramatic landscapes of Upper Mustang. The accommodation options are more basic here.
- Chele View Hotel: This is one of the better options in Chele, offering decent rooms and a pleasant courtyard. Expect to pay around NPR 800-1200 per night.
- Local Tea Houses: Several smaller tea houses are available, often run by local families. These are typically the most budget trekking friendly options, with room rates around NPR 500-800 per night.
Pro Tip: The climb from Kagbeni to Chele is steep. Pace yourself and drink plenty of water. The views are worth it!
Ghyami: The Longest Mani Wall
Ghyami is a small village known for its incredibly long mani wall. Accommodation is simple but adequate.
- Ghyami Guest House: A reliable option with basic rooms and good food. Expect to pay around NPR 600-1000 per night.
- Local Tea Houses: Similar to Chele, smaller family-run tea houses offer more affordable hiking alternatives.
Pro Tip: Take your time to explore the mani wall and the small monastery in Ghyami. It’s a great opportunity to experience the local culture.
Tsarang: Ancient Palace and Monastery
Tsarang boasts a crumbling but fascinating palace and a beautiful monastery. The tea houses here are generally well-maintained.
- Tsarang Guest House: One of the more popular options in Tsarang, offering comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. Prices are around NPR 1000-1500 per night.
- Loftang Guest House: Another good option with clean rooms and a restaurant.
Pro Tip: Allocate at least a couple of hours to explore the palace and monastery in Tsarang. The views from the palace rooftop are spectacular.
Lo Manthang: The Walled City
Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang, offers a wider range of accommodation options, though still within the tea house category.
- Hotel Mustang Holiday Inn: Despite the name, this is still a tea house, but it’s one of the more comfortable options in Lo Manthang. Prices are around NPR 1500-2500 per night.
- Momo House: A popular choice with trekkers, known for its delicious momos and friendly atmosphere. Expect to pay around NPR 1000-1800 per night.
- Sunrise Hotel: Offers good views and comfortable rooms. Prices are similar to Momo House.
Pro Tip: Lo Manthang is the highlight of the trek. Take your time to explore the walled city, visit the monasteries, and soak up the atmosphere. Consider a day trip to the Chhoser caves.
Budgeting for Tea House Accommodation and Food
Upper Mustang trekking isn’t the cheapest trek in Nepal, primarily due to the permit fees. However, tea house accommodation and food are relatively affordable. Here’s a breakdown of estimated costs:
- Accommodation: NPR 500-2500 per night, depending on the location and quality of the tea house. Aim for an average of NPR 1000-1500 per night.
- Food: NPR 400-800 per meal. Dal bhat (rice and lentils) is the most common and cheap Nepal trek-friendly option.
- Drinks: Water (boiled) is usually free. Bottled water costs around NPR 100-200. Tea and coffee are around NPR 100-150.
Total Daily Budget (excluding permit fees and transport): NPR 2500-4000 per person. This allows for comfortable accommodation, three meals a day, and some snacks and drinks. You can definitely do it cheaper if you opt for the most basic accommodation and stick to dal bhat.
Safety Considerations During the Summer/Monsoon Season
Trekking in Upper Mustang during the summer/monsoon season presents some unique challenges:
- Trail Conditions: Trails can become slippery and muddy due to rain. Wear sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support.
- Landslides: Landslides are more common during the monsoon. Check with locals about trail conditions before setting out.
- River Crossings: River crossings can become more difficult due to increased water levels. Consider hiring a porter to help you cross safely.
- Leeches: Leeches can be a nuisance in the lower altitudes. Wear long sleeves and pants and use insect repellent.
- Altitude Sickness: Altitude sickness is always a risk in Upper Mustang. Acclimatize properly and descend immediately if you experience symptoms.
Pro Tip: Carry a comprehensive first-aid kit and know how to use it. Consider hiring a local guide, especially if you’re trekking during the monsoon season.
Packing Essentials for Upper Mustang Tea House Trekking
Packing light is crucial for comfortable trekking. Here’s a list of essentials:
- Trekking Boots: Sturdy and waterproof.
- Warm Layers: Fleece jacket, down jacket, thermal underwear.
- Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket and pants.
- Sleeping Bag: Even in summer, nights can be cold.
- Headlamp: Essential for navigating tea houses at night.
- Water Bottle or Hydration Pack: Stay hydrated!
- Sunscreen, Hat, and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the strong sun.
- Toiletries: Soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper.
- First-Aid Kit: Blister treatment, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, diarrhea medication.
- Power Bank: For charging your devices.
- Cash: Credit cards are not widely accepted.
- Passport and Permits: Keep them safe and readily accessible.
Cultural Immersion and Responsible Tourism
Upper Mustang is a region rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture. Take the time to learn about the local customs and traditions. Visit monasteries, attend local festivals (if possible), and interact with the local people respectfully. Support the local economy by purchasing souvenirs and eating at local restaurants.
Practice responsible tourism by minimizing your environmental impact. Pack out all your trash, use biodegradable soap, and avoid disturbing the local wildlife. Be mindful of water usage, as water is a precious resource in this arid region.
Conclusion: Your Upper Mustang Adventure Awaits
Upper Mustang offers a unique and unforgettable trekking experience, combining stunning landscapes with rich cultural immersion. By carefully planning your accommodation, budgeting wisely, and being mindful of safety and cultural etiquette, you can have an incredible adventure, even on a budget trekking trip. Remember to check for updated information before your trip, especially regarding permit requirements and trail conditions. What are you waiting for? Start planning your Upper Mustang adventure today!
Ready to experience the magic of Upper Mustang? Contact a reputable trekking agency to book your trip and secure your permits. And don’t forget to share your experiences with us in the comments below!