Recommend a local guide for an Upper Mustang Trek during the Tiji Festival this May?

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katyfoster
katyfoster

Hi,

My husband and I are hoping to trek the Upper Mustang this May during the Tiji Festival (I know we are late in planning this but it seems worth investigating at least). We don't want to go with one of the big trekking companies and an organized trek, and are instead interested in getting permits when we arrive in Kathmandu, and hiring a local guide to both keep costs down and better enjoy the experience. Has anyone done this recently? If so, could you possibly recommend or share contact info (via PM) for a good local guide?

When it comes to permits I have frequently read that you must arrange your permits in Kathmandu through one of the authorized local trekking companies. Is that correct? Can anyone recommend a trekking company for this part of the process?

Also - anyone have experience with trying to arrange a local guide during the Tiji Festival? We have read how busy it can be and are curious how challenging it can be to find somewhere to sleep during the Festival...

Thank you very much! Any help, tips, and info is greatly appreciated!!!

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rdccomments
rdccomments

I have not been to Upper Mustang - I have been 4 times in "lower" Mustang, as part of doing Annapurna Circuit (I like Kagbeni and that area in particular).

My last 8 treks in Nepal have been with one or other of 2 brothers that I now trek with (my previous 6 treks in Nepal were indy style). I engage and pay them directly, and trek with them on a "daily rate" basis - I essentially get the same freedom as an indy trekker, but the benefits, and costs, of a guide. The older of the two did Upper Mustang again at the beginiing of last season (about Oct 2016, I think). Please PM me if you want their contact details, and some info on how we go trekking on a "daily rate" basis.

Be aware that U Mustang requires special permits, which I think are about US$500 per person. From what I read online, it does appear to be becoming more popular with trekkers and tourists, but has not yet been spoilt...

I have not experienced the Tiji festival, but have attended a number of (real) local festivals (Tihar and Mange Sangritti) when staying in my guides' village, which is off the tourist trail. Their festivals are completely authentic (ie not Disneyfied for tourists) - it is very much a cultural experience, not just a visual and auditory experience, if that makes sense. Nepal is culturally very rich, and festivals are a major part of Nepalis' cultural activities - they really help bring local people together (lots of people have headed back to my guides' village for their festivals).

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katyfoster
katyfoster
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Thanks for the info! I will message you for contacts...

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