Ultimate Luxury Nepal & Mustang Escape: 12-Day Journey with Everest Scenic Flight & Shinta Mani Mustang Stay

Flight Information

International Flights: Guests must book their own international flights to and from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu. Direct flights to Nepal are available from major international hubs in the Middle East, India, China, and Southeast Asia.

Domestic Flights: This itinerary includes scenic domestic flights from:

• Kathmandu to Pokhara (Approx. 25 mins)
• Pokhara to Jomsom (Approx. 20 mins, for Option 2)
• Jomsom to Pokhara (Return flight for Option 2)
• Pokhara to Kathmandu (Approx. 25 mins)

Private Helicopter Option: Guests choosing Option 3 will have a luxury helicopter transfer between Pokhara and Shinta Mani Mustang.
Flight Delays & Cancellations: Flights to/from Jomsom are weather-dependent and may experience delays. A buffer day is recommended for travelers with strict schedules.

Nepal Visa Information

Visa on Arrival: Most travelers can obtain a Nepal visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.
Visa Fees: USD 30 for 15 days / USD 50 for 30 days / USD 125 for 90 days
Requirements:

• A valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity
• A recent passport-size photo (digital or printed)
• Payment in USD cash (other major currencies are also accepted)

E-Visa Option: Travelers can apply online for a Nepal visa via the Nepal Immigration website before arrival to speed up the process.
Visa Extensions: Can be arranged at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu if required.

Travel Insurance

Mandatory: Travel insurance is required for all travelers and should cover:

• High-altitude trekking (above 3,000m)
• Medical emergencies & hospitalization
• Trip cancellations & flight delays
• Emergency evacuation by helicopter (recommended minimum coverage of USD 100,000)

Helicopter Evacuation: Since Mustang is a remote Himalayan region, helicopter rescue may be necessary in case of altitude sickness or medical emergencies.
Insurance Providers: Ensure that your insurance explicitly covers high-altitude travel in Nepal. Popular insurers include World Nomads, Allianz, and Travel Guard.

Health & Physical Fitness

This luxury itinerary is designed for all fitness levels, but some activities require moderate physical endurance.

Altitude Considerations:

• The highest altitude reached is Muktinath (3,760m) during an optional excursion.
• Mustang is in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, so altitude sickness is less common than in Everest or Annapurna regions.

Preparation Tips:

• Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol in high-altitude areas.
• Walk at a slow, steady pace during hikes.
• Carry personal medication and consult a doctor before traveling if you have pre-existing conditions.

Spa & Wellness: Guests staying at Shinta Mani Mustang can enjoy tailored wellness treatments, massages, and traditional Tibetan medicine consultations to support relaxation and recovery.

Weather Conditions

Nepal has four distinct seasons, and Mustang has a unique trans-Himalayan climate with dry, arid landscapes.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (March–May) – Pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and vibrant landscapes.
• Autumn (September–November) – Stable weather, excellent visibility, and perfect trekking conditions.

Weather by Region:

• Kathmandu (1,400m): Temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F).
• Pokhara (822m): Warm and humid, with temperatures between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F).
• Mustang (2,800m – 3,800m): Cooler and dry, with daytime temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F). Nights can be chilly, dropping to below freezing in winter.

Rain & Snow: Mustang is in a rain shadow, meaning very little rainfall even in monsoon season (June–August). However, winter months (December–February) bring cold temperatures and occasional snowfall in higher regions.

Cultural Considerations

Nepal is a country rich in culture, traditions, and religious diversity, blending Hinduism, Buddhism, and indigenous practices. Travelers should be mindful of local customs to ensure a respectful and immersive experience.

Temple & Monastery Etiquette

• Remove shoes before entering temples and monasteries.
• Walk clockwise around Buddhist stupas and prayer wheels.
• Avoid touching religious artifacts or statues.
• Some Hindu temples, like Pashupatinath, may not allow non-Hindus inside the inner sanctum.

Dress Code

• Nepal is conservative, so dress modestly, especially in rural areas.
• Avoid revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.

Respect for Locals

• "Namaste" (with hands pressed together) is the traditional greeting.
• Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially monks or rural villagers.
• Avoid public displays of affection, as they are not common in Nepali culture.

Dining & Social Norms

• Use your right hand when eating or giving items (the left hand is considered unclean).
• Do not point feet at people or religious objects.
• Accept food or drinks with both hands as a sign of respect.

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is not mandatory in Nepal, but it is highly appreciated for good service, especially in the tourism and hospitality industry.

• Hotels & Resorts: Most luxury hotels include a service charge, but an additional 5–10% tip for excellent service is appreciated.
• Guides & Drivers: Tour Guide: USD 10–15 per day. Driver: USD 5–10 per day
  Porters (for treks & luggage assistance at hotels): USD 5–8 per day.
• Restaurants & Cafés: 5–10% of the total bill, unless a service charge is already included.
• Spa & Wellness Staff: USD 5–10 per treatment, based on service quality.

Tip in Nepalese Rupees (NPR) or USD, but small denominations in NPR are preferred.

Safety & Security

Nepal is a generally safe country for travelers, but it’s important to take basic precautions.

Personal Safety

• Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas.
• Keep valuables secure and avoid showing large sums of cash in public.
• Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas like Thamel (Kathmandu) and Lakeside (Pokhara).

Trekking & Altitude Safety

• Mustang is at high altitude (2,800m–3,800m), so acclimatize properly.
• Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and ascend gradually.
• Carry basic first aid and altitude sickness medication.
• If any signs of altitude sickness occur, descend immediately or seek help.

Transportation Safety

• Domestic flights, especially to Jomsom, can be weather-dependent. Expect possible delays.
• If traveling by Jeep, expect bumpy mountain roads—seat belts are recommended.
• Helicopter travel is the safest and most comfortable option for Mustang.

Natural Hazards

• Mustang has minimal risk of landslides or earthquakes, but Kathmandu may experience mild tremors.
• During monsoon (June–August), flights may be delayed due to heavy rain.

Luxury Holidays Nepal prioritizes guest safety and provides 24/7 support for any emergencies.

Currency and Money Matters

The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR).

Exchange Rate:

• 1 USD ≈ 135 NPR (subject to fluctuations).
• Exchange currency at banks, ATMs, or licensed money exchangers in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Cash vs. Card

• Credit & debit cards are accepted at luxury hotels, restaurants, and major shops in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
• In Mustang, cash is required, as ATMs are limited, and card payments are rare.
• Carry small denominations (NPR 100, 500) for local expenses and tips.

ATMs & Withdrawals

• ATMs are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara but may have withdrawal limits (NPR 35,000–50,000 per transaction).
• ATM fees may range from USD 3–5 per transaction.

Currency Exchange Tips

• Avoid exchanging money at airports, as rates are lower.
• Always count cash and ask for receipts when exchanging money.
• USD, EUR, and GBP are widely accepted for exchange.

Language and Communication

Official Language: Nepali
English Proficiency: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
Common Nepali Phrases:

• Namaste – Hello / Greetings
• Dhanyabad – Thank you
• Ramro cha – It’s good / Beautiful
• Kati ho? – How much is this?
• Shuva Yatra! – Have a good journey!

Mobile & Internet

• Wi-Fi: Available in hotels, cafés, and Shinta Mani Mustang.
• SIM Cards: Travelers can buy a Ncell or Nepal Telecom (NTC) SIM for local calls and data.
• Roaming: International roaming is available but expensive—purchasing a local SIM is more cost-effective.

Transportation

Luxury Holidays Nepal ensures comfortable, private, and high-end transportation throughout your journey.

International Arrival & Departure: Private luxury vehicle for airport transfers to and from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu.

Domestic Flights & Helicopter Transfers

Kathmandu to Pokhara (25 mins) – A scenic domestic flight.
Pokhara to Jomsom (20 mins) – Available for Option 2 (flights may be subject to weather conditions).
Pokhara to Shinta Mani Mustang (Helicopter) – Available for Option 3, offering a direct VIP experience.
Pokhara to Kathmandu (25 mins) – A return flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Luxury Private Vehicle Transfers

• Private Jeep Transfer from Pokhara – Jomsom – Mustang (For Option 1).
• Comfortable air-conditioned vehicles for all sightseeing tours in Kathmandu & Pokhara.

Alternative Travel Arrangements

• Flight Delays to/from Jomsom: Due to weather dependency, alternative Jeep travel may be arranged in case of cancellations.
• Helicopter Upgrade: Available on request for travelers preferring luxury and time efficiency.

Electricity & Charging

Nepal operates on 220V – 240V electricity supply with Type C, D, and M plugs.

Power Availability

• Kathmandu & Pokhara: Reliable electricity with minimal power cuts.
• Shinta Mani Mustang: A luxury resort with full-time electricity and charging facilities.
• Mustang Region: Some rural areas may experience power fluctuations.

Charging Devices

• Bring a universal travel adapter (Type C, D, or M).
• Luxury hotels and Shinta Mani Mustang provide multiple charging outlets.
• Power banks are recommended for long excursions and treks.

Festivals & Public Holidays in Nepal

Nepal is home to rich cultural and religious celebrations, which may impact travel plans.

Major Festivals to Experience

• Dashain (September – October) – Nepal’s biggest Hindu festival with grand celebrations.
• Tihar (October – November) – The festival of lights, similar to Diwali.
• Holi (March) – A colorful festival where people throw powders and water balloons.
• Buddha Jayanti (April – May) – Celebration of Buddha’s birth.
• Teej (August – September) – A Hindu women’s festival with dancing and fasting.
• Indra Jatra (September) – A Kathmandu-based festival with chariot processions and masked dances.

Food & Dining

Nepal offers a diverse culinary experience, from traditional Nepali cuisine to international gourmet dining at luxury resorts and hotels.

Luxury Dining at Shinta Mani Mustang

• All meals & beverages included, featuring locally inspired fine dining.
• A fusion of Nepali, Tibetan, and international cuisine, paired with premium wines & handcrafted cocktails.
• Private dining experiences available upon request.

Food Options in Kathmandu & Pokhara

• 5-star restaurants & boutique cafés serving continental, Nepali, Indian, and Asian cuisine.
• Traditional Thakali meal experience in Pokhara.
• International chains and rooftop fine-dining restaurants are available.

Dietary Preferences & Restrictions

• Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal meals are available upon request.
• Avoid tap water; drink only bottled or filtered water.

Must-Try Nepali Dishes

• Dal Bhat – Traditional lentil soup with rice and curries.
• Momo – Nepali-style dumplings with dipping sauces.
• Thakali Set – A complete meal with dal, rice, vegetables, and meat.
• Gundruk – Fermented leafy greens, a unique Nepali specialty.

Cancellations & Weather-Related Changes

Domestic Flight Delays

• Flights to Jomsom (Mustang region) are highly weather-dependent. In case of cancellations, a private Jeep transfer will be arranged as an alternative.
• Helicopter upgrades are available at an additional cost for time-sensitive travelers.

Weather-Related Route Adjustments

• Mustang is in a rain-shadow area, so it is mostly dry, but winter snowfall (December – February) may impact accessibility.
• If extreme weather conditions prevent a planned excursion, Luxury Holidays Nepal will arrange an alternative experience in the region.

Cancellation Policy

• Cancellations made 30+ days before departure may qualify for partial refunds, subject to supplier policies.
• Last-minute cancellations (less than 7 days) may be non-refundable, except in emergencies.
• Travel insurance covering cancellations is highly recommended.

Packing List & Travel Essentials

A mix of luxury and adventure requires strategic packing.

Clothing

• Lightweight clothing for Kathmandu & Pokhara (T-shirts, casual wear).
• Warm layers for Mustang (2,800m+ altitude).
• Down jacket, gloves, thermal layers (especially for winter months).
• Comfortable trekking shoes for excursions.
• Sun protection (sunglasses, hat, SPF sunscreen).

Travel Gear

• Backpack or daypack for daily excursions.
• Power bank and universal travel adapter.
• Personal medications & first-aid kit (including altitude sickness tablets if needed).
• Reusable water bottle (hot & cold) to stay hydrated.

Luxury & Entertainment

• Smart casual outfits for fine dining experiences.
• Camera or smartphone with extra storage for breathtaking photos.

Shopping & Souvenirs

Luxury travelers may want to bring home authentic Nepali handicrafts.

Best Shopping Areas

• Thamel (Kathmandu) – Handicrafts, trekking gear, souvenirs.
• Patan & Bhaktapur – Handmade ceramics, Thanka paintings, silver jewelry.
• Pokhara Lakeside – Pashmina, arts & crafts, Buddhist artifacts.

Recommended Souvenirs

• Pashmina & Cashmere shawls (high-quality in Kathmandu).
• Handmade Tibetan singing bowls (used in meditation and therapy).
• Thangka paintings (traditional Buddhist artwork).
• Organic Nepali tea & coffee from Himalayan farms.
• Authentic Gurkha knives (Khukuri) for collectors.