Upper Mustang is dry, windy and sunny by day and cold at night. Your packing list should lean toward sun and dust protection and warm layers rather than heavy rain gear, although a waterproof shell is still wise.
Clothing
- Light base layers and a long-sleeved sun shirt.
- A fleece and a warm down jacket for evenings.
- A windproof shell, which is the single most useful outer layer here.
- Comfortable trekking trousers and thermal leggings.
- Wide-brimmed hat plus a warm beanie.
- Light and warm gloves.
Face and eyes
A buff or scarf protects your nose and mouth from dust and cold wind. Sunglasses with good UV protection are essential, and goggles can help on windy days. Bring high-factor sunscreen and a lip balm with sun protection, and reapply often.
Feet
Sturdy boots, broken in before the trip, along with several pairs of socks. Dust gets into everything, so gaiters can help. Pack blister protection.
Sleeping
A warm sleeping bag and a liner. Evenings can be cold even in warmer months.
Small but useful
- Moisturiser and lip balm for the dry air.
- Nasal saline spray or throat lozenges to ease dryness.
- Water bottles and purification tablets.
- Headlamp, power bank and a small first-aid kit.
- Reusable bag for dusty items.
- Some small notes and coins for monastery entries and tips.
Leave behind
Bulky rain gear and cotton clothing. Leave extra luggage in your hotel in Pokhara.
Protection from wind and dust
The wind lifts fine dust, which gets into eyes, noses and cameras. Bring a buff, a wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap and sunglasses with side protection. Consider a dust mask for jeep sections and a protective cover for your camera. Keep spare contact lens solution or glasses if you wear them.
Skin and lips
Low humidity and strong sun call for a good moisturiser, sunscreen with a high protection factor and lip balm. Nasal spray and throat lozenges help with dryness. Carry a small bottle of hand sanitiser and wipes for washing when water is limited.
Electronics and documents
Keep your phone, power bank and camera in padded pouches and protect them from dust. Carry copies of your permits and passport, plus a pen for forms. A waterproof pouch protects documents from sudden rain or snow.
Packing check
- Warm layers and a windproof jacket.
- Sturdy boots and warm socks.
- A sleeping bag suited to cold nights.
- A refillable bottle and a way to purify water.
Dust and wind protection
Bring a buff or scarf, sunglasses with side shields, a wide-brimmed hat and a light jacket for wind. Protect cameras with covers and bring lens-cleaning supplies. A small dry bag helps keep dust away from electronics.
Cold nights and warm days
Daytime can be warm while nights are cold. Layering is essential, and a good sleeping bag adds comfort. Bring thermal layers and a warm hat for evenings.
