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Upper Mustang Trek

5 - Excellent
Based on 2 Reviews | More reviews on TripAdvisor

Upper Mustang Trek 10 Days, Difficult

Upper Mustang Trek journeys you through the region of Nepal that is also familiar as Mustang Bhot, i.e. Mustang Tibet, Nepal. The reason is that this area falls beyond the mighty Himalayan range, isolating it from the rest of the nation and making it closer to Tibet. The Mustang has developed its own distinct cultural and geographical traits. It is an attraction not just for ordinary visitors but also for anthropologists, archeologists, and geologists.


Trip Facts

Physical Grading: Difficult

mental A difficult-graded trek that demands trekkers/travelers to have a top level of physical and fitness to trek daily for long hours at high altitudes.

Max Elevation: 4,320 m (Chogo La Pass)

The highest point of the trek offers stunning views of the Upper Mustang Valley.

Accommodation: Hotel, Teahouse

Basic and comfortable accommodation with basic services during the trek and a standard hotel in a city.

Meals: Full Board

3-course Healthy and Hygienic meals during the trek, and only breakfast in a city.

Best Season: Autumn & Spring

Clear views and comfortable trekking trails due to stable weather and temperature.

Trip Route:

Jomsom – Kagbeni – Samar – Ghami – Tsarang – Lo Manthang – Dhakmar – Syangboche – Chhusang - Jomsom


Trip Highlights

  • Hidden Kingdom of Lo Manthang
  • Deepest Kaligandaki Gorge
  • Stunning dry landscapes
  • Traverse through beautiful villages (Tsarang, Marpha, Kagbeni)
  • Ancient monasteries and century-old caves
  • Immerse yourself in the Himalayan lifestyle and culture of locals
  • Panoramic views of snow-capped peaks

Trip Overview

Upper Mustang Trek journeys you through the region of Nepal that is also familiar as Mustang Bhot, i.e. Mustang Tibet, Nepal. The reason is that this area falls beyond the mighty Himalayan range, isolating it from the rest of the nation and making it closer to Tibet. Mustang have developed their own distinct cultural and geographical traits. It is an attraction not just for ordinary visitors but also for anthropologists, archeologists, and geologists.

During this trek to Mustang, you will find that the mysterious aura of the place also owes a lot to its geography. Its earth has red, yellow, and brown colors. And also dominated by mysterious caves and strange figures eroded into the sandstone that composes its land. You will discover this region like a replica of the desert-like Trans-Himalayan plateau of Tibet. Because it remains as in the rain shadow area. The mountains here are barren and treeless.

Upper Mustang Trek, is a journey into this enigmatic enclave of Nepal. It allows you to see and experience all these distinct geographical and cultural features. This Mustang trek moves through the deepest Kaligandaki gorge of the earth made by the Kaligandaki River to Lo Manthang. It is the cultural capital of Upper Manang. You will also see numerous ancient monasteries. You will move through high passes, peaks, glaciers, and alpine valleys. All in all, the entire trek is a superb combination of unique cultures in Nepal and natural landscapes. Bounded by the Himalayas from the north and south, the panoramic views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri make your trip scenically unforgettable.

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Upper Mustang Trek Gallery

Trip Outline

Day 01: Kathmandu arrival (1400 m)
Arrive in Kathmandu, get welcomed by the representative, and transfer to the hotel.

Day 02: Drive to Pokhara via tourist bus (822 m)
Adoring the surrounding scenery drive to Pokhara which takes 7-8 hours.

Day 03: Fly to Jomsom (2743 m), trek to Kagbeni (2804 m)
A 30-minute scenic flight to Jomsom and start trek to Kagbeni.

Day 04: Trek to Samar (3600 m)
Follow the Kaligandaki River and walk past Chele to Samar.

Day 05: Trek to Ghami (3510 m)
Adoring Nilgiri, Thorang Peak, Muktinath Himal, Damodar Himal, trek to Ghami.

Day 06: Trek to Tsarang (3560 m)
Admiring the views of Red Cliffs trek to Tsarang.

Day 07: Trek to Lo Manthang (3840 m)
Trek to Lo Manthang and get rewarded with picturesque scenery.

Day 08: Acclimatization Day
Explore ChosserCave and visit the Gharpu, Niphu, and Nyamdu monasteries.

Day 09: Trek to Dhakmar (3820 m)
Trek to Dhakmar via Chogo La, the highest point of the trek relishing the surrounding beauty.

Day 10: Trek to Syangboche (3800 m)
Pass beautiful villages and scenic passes to Syangboche.

Day 11: Trek to Chhusang (3000 m)
Pass through Bhena La and Samar to arrive at Chhusang.

Day 12: Trek to Jomsom (2743 m)
Trek to Jomsom which has a windy atmosphere.

Day 13: Fly to Pokhara (822 m)
Take a short scenic flight to Pokhara and complimentary sightseeing in the afternoon.

Day 14: Drive to Kathmandu (1400 m)
Drive to Kathmandu after completing the Jomsom Muktinath trek.

Day 15: International departure
Transfer to the airport for an international departure.

Essential Information

Accommodation:

Teahouses or Lodges are accommodation types during the Upper Mustang trek that provide basic facilities but are comfortable to stay in. Generally, bathrooms are outside the teahouses. Pay additional costs for facilities like Wi-Fi, laundry, hot bucket water, and charging devices. Internet and phone networks are mostly stable in the lower regions.

Meals:

3-course full board meals are served during the Upper Mustangtrek which are healthy and hygienic. Breakfast and dinner are served from the teahouses and lunch is served at the stopovers during the trek. Only breakfast is provided in cities.

Drinking water:

Drinking water during the Upper Mustangtrek is easily available. Trekkers can buy Mineral Water, fill tap water, or boiled water at teahouses as their preference. Always carry a water bottle to minimize plastic pollution. Travelers can also use a water purification solution or buy mineral water which costs USD 1-2 per bottle.

Public vehicles or airways are the means of transportation during the Annapurna CircuitTrek in this Annapurna region. Private vehicle options are also there.

  • Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu by tourist bus
  • Pokhara – Jomsom – Pokhara by air (domestic flight)
  • Flight options and private vehicle options from Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu areavailable at an applicable cost.

 

The ideal seasons for the Upper Mustang trek are Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) as the weather and temperature are stable and offer incredible vistas. Monsoon season (Jun-Aug) is also best for the Upper Mustang trek as it is a rain-shadow area and receives less or no rainfall. The winter season is riskier to trek due to the unstable weather and temperature, slippery trails, and limited availability of accommodation and services. Still, it is possible to trek with proper planning and preparation.

Upper Mustang Trek requires compulsory three permits i.e. Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS).

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Foreigners- NPR 3000/person
SAARC- NPR 1000/person

Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

USD 500 per person (10 days) + extra USD 50 per person per day (beyond 10 days)

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)

Foreigners- NPR 2000/person
SAARC- NPR 1000/person
Diplomats/Foreign Officials & their families- NPR 500/person

Documents required

  • Scanned copies of passport-sized photos and passports of each participant
  • Travel Insurance
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
  • TIMS

Difficulty:

The Upper Mustang trek is a difficult-graded trek with a maximum elevation of 4,320 m. Walking daily long hours on the steep ascending and descending rough trails can be challenging for trekkers. This trek is suitable for trekkers with an average level of physical fitness as it does not involve any technicality. Previous experience is preferable.Our support is always there throughout your journey from the start to the end.

Fitness:

Upper Mustang trek demands trekkers to have a high level of fitness. Trekkers should be physically and mentally sound to join this trek. With proper preparation, physical fitness, and acclimatization, it is achievable. Your familiarity with the mountainous terrain and previous trekking experience will be plus points. Besides, maintaining good health and necessary check-ups before the trek proves to be fruitful. Some physical exercises and mental exercises to carry out before the treks are as follows:

Physical Exercises

Cardiovascular Exercises, Leg Strength Exercises, Core Strength Exercises, Upper Body Strengthening, Foot and ankle Strengthening, Flexibility and Stability Exercises, and Hiking Specific Training.

Mental Exercises

Meditation, Breathing Exercises, Stress Management, Solo Reflection, Focus and Concentration Improvement, Setting a goal, Practicing problem-solving skills, Staying Calm and Positive, Enjoying every activity, etc.

The maximum elevation during the Upper Mustang trek is 4,320 m (Chogo La Pass). Altitude sickness is common above 2500 m. As the elevation gains, there is a high chance of getting altitude sickness. Thus, acclimatization rest is essential to prevent it. Take an acclimatization rest as suggested in the itinerary during the trek.

Common symptoms of Altitude Sickness 

Headache, nausea, dizziness, uneasiness, appetite, and sleep loss, and on extreme some can experience unconsciousness and hallucination.

Preventions for Altitude Sickness 

  • Take an acclimatization rest
  • Inform the guide
  • Climb slowly and gradually
  • Keep yourself Hydrated
  • Avoid alcohol and salty foods
  • Know your body limit
  • Take a complete rest and sleep
  • Take medicine consulting a guide

It acts as a safety net and is essential for trekking. We recommend getting travel insurance from a reputed company.

  • Make sure that you are insured against cancellations, accidents, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of, or damage to, baggage, and personal effects.

In emergencies, we will arrange for a helicopter rescue, medical treatment, and aftercare for you. All these costs shall be borne by your travel insurance company

The Upper Mustang trek is a difficult graded trek. Since there is no technical climbing involved, only basic equipment and gear are required that trekkers can hire or bring on their own.

Clothes: Windcheater jacket, Thermals, Insulating Down Jacket, Fleece, Long sleeve shirts, Gloves, Towels, Inner garments, Trekking pants, Trousers, Shorts, Socks, Raincoat, Balaclava, Bandana, Gaiters

Shoes: Camp shoes, Pair of hiking boots, Rubber sandals

Essential Documents: Passport, Travel Permits, Visa Photocopy, Passport size photos

Food: Light snacks, Energy bars, and drink mix

Accessories: Sunglasses, Hats/Caps, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Water bottles, Pocket Knife, Solar chargers, Batteries, Head Lamps, Torch, Umbrella, Sewing kit, Water Purifying solution kits, reusable bags to deposit waste, separate clean/dirty clothes

Equipment: Warm Sleeping bags, Map, Trekking poles, Duffel bag

STANDARD SERVICE INCLUSION

  • Accommodation: Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek; Deluxe accommodation for 2 nights in Kathmandu and Pokhara on a twin-sharing basis
  • Meals: 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which you can choose from the menu) during the trek; breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Transportation: Airport-hotel-airport transfers and sightseeing by Private Transportation; Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu by tourist bus; Pokhara – Jomsom – Pokhara by air (domestic flight tickets)
    (Optional: Flight and Private Vehicle options from Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu are available at an applicable cost.)
  • Documentation: Trekking permits (ACAP, Upper Mustang RAP, and TIMS)
  • Equipment/Accessories: Down jacket, sleeping bags, a waterproof duffel bag, first-aid kit, water purifying solution (iodine-based) for Complimentary use (Use if Required)
  • Human resource: A professional and experienced trekking guide (English-speaking); a porter per trekker (carrying up to 15 kg/person); all the expenses for the guide and porter(s) are covered (wages, accommodation, meals, transportation, insurance, flight tickets, etc.)
  • Tax/Service Charge: All applicable taxes, service charges, or fees. We hereby guarantee you no ‘hidden charges’ afterward
  • Complimentary: Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (authentic Nepalese cuisines with live cultural show)
  • Trip Achievement Certificate: After returning from the trip, we will present you with a certificate of achievement
  • Emergency Rescue Service: Should any emergency arise during your trek, we will provide prompt and professional rescue and medical services. We carry a Supplementary oxygen tank with a mask and regulator for emergencies.However, you must be already insured for such emergencies, and your insurance policy must cover helicopter evacuation. Moreover, you should provide your policy details and authorize us to deal directly with your insurance company on your behalf. Please make sure that your insurance will cover helicopter evacuation up to 5650 meters.

What's not included?

  • Beverage (Cold/Alcoholic drinks, Bottled Mineral Water, extra tea/coffee, etc.)
  • Any other expenses of a personal nature (extra meals/Snacks/Dessert, Wi-Fi, battery charging fees, photography charges, Hot Shower, etc.)
  • Tips for Guide and Porters (Expected) and any Donations
  • Your travel insurance, and International Air Fares
  • Nepal Visa (You can apply and obtain the visa on arrival at the Immigration desk, apply visa https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/
  • Activities (Sightseeing/tours) cost in Kathmandu (available at extra cost)
  • Costs arise due to unforeseen weather conditions, natural disasters, political issues, incomplete trips because of personal problems, mountain sickness, physical status, early return from the trek, late departure & any costs other than those mentioned in the inclusion section

GROUP JOINING DATES & PRICES

At present, the group joining dates are not available, but we are happy to create a private trip for you with the flexibility to customize. Simply, let us know your preferences so that our travel experts will assist you in planning a trip to your dream destination.

Customers Reviews

5 - Excellent Based on 2 Reviews


Jaime Rubio
Spain

Fantastic experience

Dec 2019

I cannot recommend Outdoors and its amazing team highly enough. They provide absolutely everything with the highest standards. They have good and fast communication at the planning stage and while en-route, very competitive prices without hidden fees, an excellent team supporting at every stage (pick-ups, office, guides, porters), a great capacity to solve any unexpected problem you can come across (eg flight delays or personal requests), the ability to tailor-design your experience, plus an excellent personal touch which makes you feel among friends. Our guide, Subba, and our porter, Hari, were certainly one more member of our team, very experienced, with high leadership and management skills, and formidable travel companions with their excellent humour. They didn’t hesitate to act as guide, cook, porter, or anything the situation required. From the office, Raj and team were absolutely fantastic. They managed everything to our highest expectations. Will certainly repeat with each and everyone of them!


trekking period of mustang

Marian D
Presov, Slovakia

Upper Mustang trek Sep-Oct

December, 2014

It was a first-time trek in Nepal for my friend and me and I have to say that both of us were highly satisfied. From the beginning, the communication with the agency was very fast and efficient. When we arrived in Kathmandu everything was arranged, so the very next day we kick off on the trip. Our guide Mr Gokarna took care virtually about everything and managed the whole trek excellently. We started in Pokhara and in spite of bad weather and cancelled flight we managed to finish the whole 12 day trip on time. The trip itself felt really like an experience from past times even thou the Mustang area is being developed and modernised quite quickly. Our guide apart from being a guide and manager of the trip was also a very good companion for the whole day and explained us many topics from the local area and many details about life in Nepal.

I must say that so far I have been travelling on my own and this was the first time I went with an agency but from the beginning to the end of the trip everything was really professional.
If I go to Nepal next time surely Outdoor Himalayan Treks will be my choice.


Detail Itinerary

Day 01 Kathmandu arrival

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m) 30-minute hotel drive

Outdoor Himalayan Treks representative welcomes you at the Tribhuvan International Airport of Kathmandu and transfers you to the hotel. Later, meet our team and guide for a brief trek discussion. If time allows, walk around the Thamel tourist area on your own in the evening. Overnight in a hotel.

Hotel

Day 02 Drive to Pokhara via tourist bus

Elevation: Pokhara (822 m) 7-8 hours’ drive.

Your trekking guide will receive you from your hotel in Kathmandu at 6:30 AM and take you to the Tourist Bus Station at Kantipath. At 7:00 AM the bus will leave for Pokhara, exiting the valley of Kathmandu at Thankot and then descending through the winding highway. During the fascinating drive, you will be allowed to make two shortstops for tea and breakfast at some convenient locations. After arriving in Pokhara at around 2:00 PM, you check in at your hotel, freshen up and have lunch. Walking along the Lakeside would be a good idea for the evening. You are advised to get some good sleep to begin trekking the next day. Overnight in a hotel.

Hotel Breakfast

Day 03 Fly to Jomsom, trek to Kagbeni

Elevation: Jomsom (2743 m), Kagbeni (2804 m) 25-minute flight, 3-4 hours trek. Elevation gain: 61 m

Leave the hotel early to Pokhara airport, and take the morning flight to Jomsom which takes about 25 minutes. The weather conditions may apply to the timely manner of flight. Start trekking to Kagbeni following the Kaligandaki River, the windy valley. The river is very famous for its holy Saligram stone. The walk to Kagbeni takes about 3-4 Hours. Visit around old monasteries in the village. Night in a local lodge in Kagbeni.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 04 Trek to Samar

Elevation: Samar (3600 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 796 m

The walk to Samar will be followed by the Kaligandaki River until Chele, We will have lunch at Khuksang. The walk toChele is gradually flat while the rest walking to Samar takes us uphill. Night in a local lodge in Samar.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 05 Trek to Ghami

Elevation: Ghami (3510 m) 6-7 hours trek. Elevation loss: 90 m

On this day our trek, most of the day is uphill. We will have lunch at Syangboche, and visit Chusngsi Cave/Monastery on the way. We will be welcomed by Nilgiri, Thorang Peak, Muktinath Himal, Damodar Himal, Purkung Himal, Mustang Himal, etc. on this day. Night in a local lodge in Ghami.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 06 Trek to Tsarang

Elevation: Tsarang (3560 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 50 m

After having breakfast we started counting our destination Tsarang, measuring Nyila Pass (4010m). We will be delighted to see the view of Mustang Valley, Annapurna, and Nilgiri mountains. On the way, we will see Red cliffs crossing the blue steeps. We will visit an old palace with a Buddhist Library and night in the local tea house

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 07 Trek to Lo Manthang

Elevation: Lo Manthang (3840 m) 4-5 hours trek. Elevation gain: 280 m

This is our final day to get to our destination, Lo Manthang. The walk from Tsarang starts with the downhill then gradually flat and some uphill on this day. On the way, we will see Sungda Chorten, one of the old Chortens on our way. We will enjoy seeing the Lo Manthang Valley from the windy pass. We will get to Lo Manthang for our lunch.  After having lunch we may visit some monasteries nearby or take a rest. Night in the tea house

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 08 Acclimatization Day

Elevation: Chosser Cave (4000 m), Lo Manthang (3840 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain/loss: 160 m

After breakfast, we will make a side trip to Chosser (2 Hours), and visit Gharpu, Niphu, Nyamdu, etc. monasteries, and caves. Niphu has got a very old history of human civilization, the 5 story cave represents how the civilization was established in the Himalayan kingdom. If time allows and you have interest we may take the local ride to visit Korala (Nepal/Tibet border). Back to lodge in Lo Manthang. Visit the palace in the evening (Entry into the main palace is prohibited). Night in the tea house.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 09 Trek to Dhakmar

Elevation: Dhakmar (3820 m) 6-7 hours trek. Elevation loss: 20 m

After breakfast, we start to trek to Dhakmar. At the beginning of the day, we start ascending to Chogo La (4320) which 2 hours is walking from Lo Manthang. Then descend to GharGumba (3950 m) where we will see the scriptures of Padmasambhava, have lunch then continue walking to Dhakmar via Miu La Pass (4100 m). After the pass descending to Dhakmar takes about an hour, on the way we will see the red cliff. Night in a tea house.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 10 Trek to Syangboche

Elevation: Syangboche (3800 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation loss: 20 m

The walk from Dhakmar to Syangboche follows the same route that we made on our way to Lo Manthang. It takes 5-6 Hours walking. Night in a tea house.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 11 Trek to Chhusang

Elevation: Chhusang (3000 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation loss: 800 m

On this day our destination is Chhusang. On our way, we will make Bhena La (3860 m), and down to Samar which takes about 4 hours. After having lunch at Samar we will continue to Chhusang which takes another 3 Hours. Night in a tea house.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 12 Trek to Jomsom

Elevation: Jomsom (2743 m) 6-7 hours trek. Elevation loss:257 m

This is our last day of walking. Following the Kaligandaki River, we exit from the Upper Mustang restricted area. The walk to Jomsom takes about 6-7 hours passing through Tangbe, Kagbeni, Ekle Bhatti, etc. Lunch atop at Kagbeni then final step to Jomsom following windy valley. Night in a hotel in Jomsom.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 13 Fly to Pokhara

Elevation: Pokhara (822 m) 25-minute flight, 30-minute hotel drive.

Fly back to Pokhara on a 25-minute short but exciting domestic flight. After checking in at your hotel and having lunch, you can enjoy a complimentary sightseeing tour of Pokhara Valley

Hotel Pokhara

Day 14 Drive to Kathmandu

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m) 7-8 hours’ drive.

The standard scheme is to provide you with a tourist coach to Kathmandu. However, if you wish to spend some extra days by yourself in Pokhara, the return ticket can be issued for your desired date. Join the farewell dinner offered by Outdoor Himalayan Treks at an authentic Nepali restaurant where you can enjoy the live cultural show. Back to the hotel, overnight.

Hotel Breakfast

Day 15 International departure

Airport transfer will be provided at your required time, if you intend to extend your stay in Kathmandu we will arrange the airport transfer on your required day.

Upper Mustang Trek FAQs

The special attractions of the Upper Mustang Trek are unique landscapes, ancient Tibetan culture, the ancient kingdom Lo-Manthang, and hidden caves.

The trek duration of the Upper MustangTrek is 10 days.

The Upper Mustang Trek usually takes around 12-14 days but may vary depending on the itinerary and trekking pace.

Yes, you can do the Upper Mustang trek in the monsoon season besides the Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) seasons as this region gets less rainfall.

Yes, you need a special permit called the ‘Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit’ to trek in the Upper Mustang. Additionally, you also need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card.

The Upper Mustang Trek is considered a difficult-graded trek. It does not involve technical climbing but trekkers should have a good level of fitness and be prepared for long hours of walking each day.

The maximum altitude reached during the Upper Mustang Trek is at Chogo La, which is situated at an elevation of 4,320 m.

Altitude sickness can be a concern during the Upper Mustang Trek, especially as you reach higher altitudes. It is important to acclimatize properly, drink plenty of fluids, and listen to your guide’s instructions.

Along the trekking route, you can find teahouses and guesthouses that offer basic accommodation facilities. The facilities may vary in terms of comfort and facilities as you reach a higher region.

Yes, you can find bottled water and boiled water for drinking at teahouses along the trekking route. It is advisable to carry water purification tablets or a water filter to ensure safe drinking water.

Some essential items to pack for the Upper Mustang Trek include strong trekking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a first aid kit, and a good backpack.

Yes, it is possible to extend the Upper Mustang Trek to other regions such as Annapurna Circuit or Tilicho Lake Trek. However, you need to acquire the necessary permits for the additional regions.

Yes, the Upper Mustang region is known for its rich Tibetan Buddhist culture. There are several monasteries, such as Lo Gekar Monastery and Namgyal Gompa, and cultural sites, including the walled city of Lo Manthang.

Yes, while the Upper Mustang Trek is not primarily focused on mountain views, you can catch glimpses of prominent peaks like Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri during the trek.

Yes, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergency medical expenses, evacuation, and trip cancellation for the duration of the trek.

To book the Upper MustangTrek with Outdoor Himalayan, visit the website and fill out the booking form, or contact us directly via email or phone. We will provide you with the necessary details and assistance for your trekking experience.