Shinta Mani Mustang | Nepal
A MYSTICAL RETREAT IN ANCIENT LAND
5 NIGHTS SHINTA MANI MUSTANG PROGRAM
ARRIVAL TO SHINTA MANI MUSTANG
Upon arrival in Jomsom, our BENSLEY guide will escort you to Shinta Mani Mustang. At 2,800m/9186ft, the resort is among the few places in Nepal where giant Himalayan peaks can be admired at such close proximity. About 500 feet below the resort is the Kali Gandaki River which flows downstream to form the deepest gorge in the world. You will be warmly welcomed to the resort, where you can check in and settle into your suite. After your journey to Mustang, take some time to unwind and rejuvenate by pampering in the resort’s spa treatments, leaving you refreshed and ready for your adventures ahead. For traditional healing practices, explore wellness sessions offered by Amchi, the Tibetan and Himalayan medicine practitioners. The resort’s serene surroundings offer the perfect opportunity to take a leisurely walk, enjoying the magnificent views and discovering the facilities the resort has to offer. As the day unfolds, begin your hike to Thini Village, known for its off-beaten hiking trails, providing a glimpse into the local lifestyle and culture while surrounded by awe-inspiring mountain landscapes. As the sun sets, return to the resort and relish a delightful dinner, savoring the tranquil ambiance and perhaps engaging in any entertainment activities available, making your first day at Shinta Mani Mustang truly unforgettable.
MARPHA VILLAGE
Marpha Village Nestled at the southern edge of Nepal’s stunning Mustang region, Marpha Village is a hidden gem that captivates every traveler with its timeless charm. Famous for its apple orchards and traditional stone houses, this picturesque village offers an authentic encounter with Nepalese rural life. The narrow flagstone streets, beautifully painted Buddhist monasteries, and the unforgettable taste of local apple brandy and cider gives a special character to this place. Surrounded by majestic mountains, Marpha Village is not only a perfect spot for trekkers seeking tranquility after the Annapurna Circuit but also for those who crave cultural immersion and tranquility amidst nature’s grandeur. Your Marpha excursion begins in the morning with a refreshing 2-hour trek from our lodge to Dumba Lake and the iconic Khutsab Terenga Monastery. This route offers stunning views of the Kali Gandaki Valley, the deepest valley in the world. You have the option to either drive, trek, or mountain bike to the picturesque Marpha Village. Spend your day strolling through the stone streets, shopping for local handicrafts, and immersing in the sights and sounds of this quaint village. For lunch, you’ll be hosted by Mrs. Kamala, a renowned Thakali Chef and civic leader, at her kitchen table. She will prepare a classic Thakali meal for you, offering an authentic taste of the local cuisine. After lunch, continue your exploration of Marpha Village, delving deeper into its fascinating history and traditions. From the apple orchards to the Buddhist monasteries, every corner of this village has a story to tell, making your Marpha excursion a truly enriching experience.
WILDERNESS TREKKING
Embark on a trek in the Jomsom Valley, journeying through carefully selected sites based on conditions for an optimal outdoor experience. Traverse rugged landscapes, cross streams, and navigate forests, while marveling at the breathtaking views of the snowcapped Himalaya and lush surroundings. Stop at vantage points to capture the panoramic views and take memorable photographs. Midway through the trek, pause for a mountaineer-inspired picnic to rest and refuel amidst the valley’s beauty. Enjoy high-energy foods, a glass of chilled Rosé and the unique experience of dining in the wilderness. Continue your exploration post-lunch, appreciating the serenity and solitude of untouched areas. Conclude your trek back at the starting point, carrying with you a sense of accomplishment and unforgettable memories. Absolutely, one of the key aspects of our trekking programs is its flexibility. We understand that every guest is unique in terms of skill, experience, and fitness level. Therefore, all our treks can be customized to match the capabilities and requirements of our guests. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking a challenging route or a novice trekker preferring a more relaxed pace, we can adjust the itinerary, length, and difficulty of the trek to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. We place great emphasis on safety and enjoyment, so rest assured, your trek will be tailored to suit your individual needs, making your journey through Mustang not only memorable but also within your comfort zone.
JHONG, JHARKOT & KAGBENI WITH OPTION TO VISIT MUKTINATH
Begin your journey from the resort after breakfast with a leisurely 1-hour drive to the historical gem of Jharkot, famous for its notable gompa. Revel in the tranquility and beauty of this Tibetan village, seemingly untouched by time. From Jharkot, embark on a serene hike into the valley, through ancient orchards, crossing suspension bridges and ascending the opposite side to ancient Jhong village. Tour a traditional home and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch by the Shinta Mani culinary team at the monastery, set against the backdrop of 360-degree breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and majestic mountains.
After the meal, choose between an exhilarating mountain biking adventure down a less traveled trail or a comfortable jeep ride towards Kagbeni village, the gateway to Upper Mustang. Here, visit the Kag Chode Thupten Samphel Ling Monastery, an important Buddhist site, attracting visitors interested in Buddhism and its teachings. This tour is a blend of history, culture, adventure, and natural beauty, providing an immersive experience of the Nepal countryside.
For those seeking an even more enriching cultural experience, we offer an optional tour of the revered Muktinath Hindu pilgrimage site. By departing from the resort two hours earlier, you can visit this sacred location nestled in the heart of the Himalayas. Muktinath is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists from around the world, offering a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the spiritual traditions of Nepal.
The highlight of the Muktinath visit is the sacred 108 fountains, also known as Mukti Dhara. According to Hindu belief, bathing in these fountains washes away one’s sins and brings salvation. Hence, we recommend bringing your bathing suit to partake in this unique spiritual ritual. This optional tour adds an additional layer of depth to your Nepalese journey, combining the thrill of adventure with profound spiritual experiences.
Lubra, Bon Buddhist Village
Bon, one of Mustang’s hidden treasures, is a Tibet-born culture that flourished alongside Buddhism and primarily practiced shamanism. As a result, its adherents have been persecuted and sometimes forced to convert to Buddhism. The culture, known for rituals such as the Sky Burial, has never completely vanished from the Himalayas.
Lubra, which is thought to have been founded in the late 12th century in Lower Mustang, is one of Nepal’s few fully Bon villages. Situated almost an hour’s drive from Shinta Mani Mustang, you can visit a well-kept ancient Bon monastery, “Yungdung Phuntsok Ling” and a small bon temple, “Gon Phuk” on the mountainside above the village that leads to the ancient meditation caves on the village’s rock cliffs.
Guests will drive to the Bon Village Valley and trek the last kilometer to the village after crossing a bog suspension bridge. Will meet local guide from the village who will take the guests on a village tour including the old gompa. After visiting the gompa guests will trek up the mountain to the cave monastery to learn about the 800-year history of the Bon Village and Monastery. Guests will then trek back to the village for a local Bon lunch in a local teashop. After lunch guests will trek to the fortress ruins and lookout spot for amazing views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Stop at the village Apple Orchard to drink fresh apple juice.
Guests can then drive or ride mountain bikes back to the village