Best Hotel Near Point Mugu: Where to Stay in Mugu, Nepal

Mugu, the pearl of Nepal, is renowned for its untouched terrain, the lovely Rara Lake, and inaccessible trekking trails. If you are planning to go on a trip to this lovely place, it is imperative to reserve the appropriate accommodation for a comfortable stay.

As a trekker, nature enthusiast, or adventure traveler, in this article, we will take you through the process of choosing the best hotels near Point Mugu.

Why Visit Mugu, Nepal?

Mugu which is one of the most distant and unvisited regions of Nepal, provides a unique natural and cultural experience. Some of the reasons to visit Mugu are listed below:

1. Breathtaking Natural Beauty

Mugu has Rara Lake, Nepal's largest and most pristine lake. Nestled in the midst of dense pine forests and the snow-white Himalayan mountains, Rara Lake offers breathtaking scenery and a serene ambiance perfect for relaxation and photography. The mirror-like reflection of the mountains in the blue waters of Rara Lake makes it one of Nepal's most picturesque spots.

2. Adventure & Trekking Opportunities

For hiking explorers, Mugu has some of the most distant treks in Nepal. Rara Lake Trek and Mugu Dolpo Trek present sweeping scenery, varied landscapes, and glimpses into far-flung villages. The difficult treks repay explorers with amazing views and more intimate encounters with Nepal's pristine wilds.

3. Rich Cultural Heritage

Mugu has native settlements like the Mugali, Thakuri, and Tibetan-influenced communities. Visitors can experience traditional rural life, see exclusive festivals, and interact with the local people who retain traditional modes of living. Historic Buddhist monasteries, wooden houses, and cultural rituals enhance the beauty of Mugu.

4. Remote & Peaceful Environment

Compared to Nepal's more well-developed tourism areas, Mugu is a paradise.  The rural landscape is not littered with travelers, so it is a peaceful haven from city life.  The peace and quiet of nature and the freshness of the mountain air make it a perfect spot for meditation, reflection, and recuperation.

5. Wildlife & Biodiversity

Mugu lies inside Rara National Park, which is characterized by diverse fauna and flora. Among the vulnerable species like red panda, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and others like different birds are seen in the park. Nature admirers and birdwatchers will enjoy a fantastic location in Mugu.

6. Scenic Flights & Road Journeys

Arriving at Mugu is an adventure in itself. The flight from Nepalgunj to Talcha Airport provides scintillating views of the Himalayas. For the lovers of road travel, the drive through the hilly landscape of western Nepal provides a travel experience one would never forget.

What Are The Types of Accommodation in Mugu?

Mugu, being a remote destination, has varied accommodations for various travelers. This is a straightforward explanation of the accommodations:

1. Hotels & Lodges

Hotels and lodges within Mugu have basic but clean facilities. They are concentrated in Gamgadhi (district headquarters Mugu) and in Rara Lake. Although they are not luxurious, they consist of basic amenities including clean rooms, warm bed blankets, and Nepali cuisine.

• Best For: Travelers who prefer a mix of comfort and affordability
• Facilities: Basic rooms, attached toilets in some, traditional food

Examples: Rara View Lodge, Danphe Hotel & Lodge

2. Teahouses & Guesthouses

Teahouses and guesthouses are usually found on trekking routes and in villages. They are small, family-run establishments that offer sleeping accommodations and simple meals. Trekkers and backpackers visit these accommodations due to their affordability and welcoming hospitality.

• Best For: Backpackers, trekkers, and budget travelers
• Facilities: Basic dormitory rooms, shared dining, home cooking

Examples: Teahouses on the Rara Lake trek

3. Homestays

For those visitors interested in knowing local culture, homestays in Mugu villages provide a unique experience. Staying with a local family, guests have the opportunity to eat traditional Nepali and Tibetan-style meals, witness rural life firsthand, and interact with locals.

• Best For: Cultural tourists and experience seekers
• Facilities: Simple rooms, local cuisine, cultural interaction

Examples: Mugali and Thakuri village homestay experiences

4. Camping

For adventure enthusiasts and trekkers who are interested in exploring the raw beauty of Mugu, camping is an ideal choice. Trekkers either carry their own tents and camping gear or arrange for a guided tour that also offers gear and assistance.

• Best For: Trekkers, adventure seekers, and nature lovers
• Facilities: Self-catering arrangement, carried or rented tents, outdoor cooking

Examples: Typical for long treks like the Mugu-Karnali trek

What Are The Best Budget-Friendly Hotels Near Point Mugu, Nepal?

Mugu is a popular tourist attraction however it is located in a rural part of Nepal. Reaching Mugu is challenging, but the natural splendor makes the effort worthwhile. Because of the difficult terrain and distant location, there few well-facilated hotels are available. Here are some of the best hotels for your visit in Mugu:

1. Rara View Lodge

• Location: Near Rara Lake
• Facilities: This hotel or lodge offers a beautiful lake view, cozy rooms, and local food
• Best For: Travelers in search of a peaceful nature retreat

2. Danphe Hotel & Lodge

• Location: Gamgadhi, Mugu
• Facilities: It has cozy room, local food, and easy access to Mugu's trekking routes
• Best For: Budget travelers and hikers

3. Hotel Khasar Mugu

• Location: Near Rara National Park
• Features: Wooden traditional buildings, Wi-Fi, and warm hospitality
• Best For: Families and adventure seekers

4. Homestay Experience in Mugu Villages

• Location: Various villages near Point Mugu
• Features: Experience of local culture, home-made food, and rural stay
• Best For: Cultural visit tourists

5. Rara Eco Resort

• Location: Near Rara Lake.
• Facilities: Private rooms, camping tents, hot showers, and traditional Nepali meals.
• Best For: Nature lovers and trekkers seeking eco-friendly lodging near Rara Lake.

How to Choose the Best Accommodation in Mugu?

Selecting the best lodging in Mugu demands careful thought regarding several factors to make your stay comfortable and according to your preferences. Below are some points to consider in helping you:

1. Accessibility to Trekking Routes

• Strategic Location: If you intend to trek, say, to Rara Lake or somewhere else in the district, it is essential to stay close to trek routes. It keeps your journeying time at its least and offers you additional flexibility and trekking time.
• Access to Popular Trails: To start your hike early and have easy access to Mugu's natural features, make sure you stay near well-traveled routes.

2. Comfort & Facilities

• Basic Amenities: Mugu is a rural area, and basic amenities will not be readily available. However, look for guesthouses or lodges that offer the bare necessities of clean bedding, hot water (especially at higher altitudes), and electricity (solar-powered in most places).
• Enhanced Comfort: For enhanced comfort, look for accommodations that offer heated rooms, in-room bathrooms, additional services such as charging points, Wi-Fi (available in limited regions), and shared dining facilities.

3. Food & Eating Choices

• Nepali & Tibetan Traditional Food: Local food such as dal bhat, momos, and thukpa is available at most accommodations in Mugu. Enjoy authentic taste with an attitude that mirrors the culture of the region.
• Special Dietary Requirements: If you need special dietary (e.g., vegetarian or gluten-free) options, it would be best to let your accommodation know in advance since choices may be limited at places far from tourist hubs.

4. Financial Considerations

• Affordable Guesthouses: Mugu has budget guesthouses. They are simple in facilities but perfect for low-budget backpackers.
  Mid-Range Lodges: For more comfort, consider mid-range lodges, which may have private rooms, attached bathrooms, and hot showers. 
• Luxury Lodges: While not plentiful, a few luxury lodges in Mugu offer a degree of comfort and services higher than the average lodge. These may have more sophisticated rooms, added facilities, and higher prices. 

5. Health and Safety

• Hygiene Standards: As Mugu is remote, see to it that your lodge provides basic hygiene and safety standards. Check reviews or ask locals about cleanliness and the maintenance of the lodge.
• Access to Healthcare: You need to know where the nearest health facility is in the event of an emergency. Ensure your accommodation has any medical assistance you might require or can refer you to a local hospital or clinic.

6. Seasonal Considerations

• Peak Seasons: The best time to visit Mugu is during trekking time, from March to May and September to November. Lodgings are overcrowded during the peak season months and more expensive. Advance booking is advisable.
• Off-Peak Seasons: For fewer visitors and a less crowded stay, travel during the off-season (June to August or December to February), but be cautious of potential weather-related problems.

7. Cultural Experience

• Homestays & Local Lodgings: For a richer cultural experience, attempt to stay in local homestays or stay with families. This gives a chance to interact with locals and learn their culture and be hospitably received by them.
• Interaction with Locals: Staying in more locally-oriented lodgings is generally to offer more individualized service and a richer cultural experience, and an opportunity to learn local customs and traditions.

8. Reviews and Recommendations

• Check Reviews: Check reviews from previous visitors to validate the quality of the accommodation. Websites like TripAdvisor, Booking.com, or Google reviews can offer information about the experiences of other visitors.
• Ask for Local Recommendations: If you are already in Mugu or Nepal, inquire from locals or fellow travelers. They typically have the best knowledge of where to stay.

By keeping these aspects in mind, you can choose the most appropriate accommodation in Mugu as per your needs, whether you prefer basic comfort, cultural stay, or otherwise. Pre-booking and the proper accommodation will ensure that your journey remains enjoyable and trouble-free in this remote yet picturesque region of Nepal.

What Is The Best Time to Visit Mugu?

The best time to visit Mugu, Nepal, also differs significantly depending on the activities you intend to undertake, such as trekking or enjoying the natural scenery of the area. Below is a detailed analysis of the best times to go to Mugu:

• Autumn (September to November) – Ideal for Trekking

Weather: It is the ideal time to visit Mugu. The weather is clear and dry, with temperate weather during the day and cold nights.

Advantages:

• Clear Skies: The weather is usually clear, and the snow-capped mountains, including the ones surrounding Rara Lake, can be seen.
• Butterfly Facts: It's the best time to trek to the Rara Lake region as the trails are not wet and the weather is not erratic.
• Festivals: Nepal celebrates its major festivals like Dashain and Tihar at this time, offering a cultural experience as well as trekking.
• Temperature: The daytime temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C, and the nights range from 5°C to 10°C.

• Spring (March to May) – Best for Adventure and Scenic Appeal

Weather: Spring is another best time to visit Mugu. In this season, weather remains pleasant.

Advantages:

• Trekking: Like autumn, spring is also a good time for trekking. The trails are dry, and the weather is nice, so it is good for long treks to Rara Lake.
• Floral Bloom: The area is covered with rhododendrons and other wildflowers in bloom, adding colorful shades to the landscape.
• Temperature: The daytime temperature is 12°C to 22°C , and at night it is around 8°C to 12°C.

Winter (December to February) – For a calm and tranquil experience

• Weather: It is cold winter in Mugu with snow at high altitudes. The climate is good but extremely cold, especially at high altitudes.

Advantages:

• Less Crowded: There are fewer tourists who visit during this time of season, and you have a calm and tranquil experience.
• Snowy Landscape: If you enjoy winter sports or the beauty of snow landscapes, Mugu's landscape can be magical during winter.
• Challenges: Certain trekking routes might be more difficult due to snowfall, and certain lodges could be shut down or offer restricted services.
• Temperature: At higher elevations, nighttime lows typically fall between -5°C and -10°C (23°F and 14°F), which is quite close to freezing. Daytime highs can range from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F).

Monsoon (June to August) – Avoid for Trekking

• Weather: Mugu receives a lot of rain during the monsoon season, especially at the lower elevations. The paths are slippery and muddy, making trekking challenging.

Advantages:

• Greenery: The environment becomes incredibly vivid, especially in the vicinity of Rara Lake, and the soil turns lush and fertile.
• Fewer Tourists: You'll have a more private experience during the monsoon season because there are less tourists, albeit some services could be less available.
• Challenges: It is less suitable for trekking because it might result in leeches, slick paths, and possible landslides.
• Temperature: Day temperatures are between 12°C to 20°C, with humid weather.

Conclusion:

Mugu, Nepal, offers a unique and remote travel experience with limited but satisfactory accommodations. Whether you choose a simple lodge near Rara Lake or plunge into a homestay, your journey in Mugu will be an experience to never forget. For a seamless experience, book ahead and choose accommodations that suit your kind of travel and budget.

Looking for a led trek with a boarding facility? Dolpo Caravan Treks is here to help you plan the perfect trip to Mugu.