From Chhusang the path follows the Narshing Khola upstream between walls of eroded conglomerate. In about 30–40 minutes Tetang appears, its houses rising three and four storeys high and joined so closely that the lanes run as tunnels beneath them. The design kept out the wind and, in older times, raiders. Prayer flags and juniper bundles mark the doorways.
Tetang has a small gompa, irrigated fields of barley and buckwheat and a handful of lodges used by trekkers heading over the Gyu La to Muktinath. Because it is off the main road, life here is quiet: women weave in courtyards, children walk to school along the stream and old men turn prayer wheels on the sunny side of the lanes. Your guide can introduce you to families and arrange tea.
The walk there and back takes 2–3 hours with about 100 m of height gain. It works as an afternoon excursion for trekkers sleeping in Chhusang, or as the start of the eastern route to Muktinath. Ask before photographing people, and keep to the paths through the fields.
Good for
- Photographers
- Couples
- Solo
- Families
Questions travellers ask
Where is Tetang in Upper Mustang?
Tetang is a village about 30–40 minutes' walk east of Chhusang, up the Narshing Khola valley, at roughly 3,040 m. It lies inside the Upper Mustang restricted area. From Tetang a trail climbs over the Gyu La to Muktinath, making it an alternative start or finish for Upper Mustang treks.
Can I trek from Tetang to Muktinath?
Yes. A trail climbs from Tetang over the Gyu La pass, roughly 4,000 m or a little higher, to Muktinath in one long day of 7–9 hours. It is quiet and scenic but has no water or lodges on the way. Treks often use it to finish Upper Mustang at Muktinath instead of Jomsom.
Do I need the Upper Mustang permit for Tetang?
Yes. Tetang and Chhusang are north of Kagbeni and inside the Upper Mustang restricted area, so you need the restricted area permit, the ACAP permit and a licensed guide in a group of at least two. Check current status before you travel.
