Ranchung Chungsi Cave of Upper Mustang

Table of Contents

Best Recommended Chungsi Cave Jeep Tour Itinerary- 07 Days
Common Faqs about Chungsi Cave Monastery- Upper Mustang

The 8^th Century Ranchung Chungsi Cave of Upper Mustang is the epitome of the Buddhist cultural heritage. It is located on the way to Lomanthang, in between Summer and Syangboche villages. The cave is similar to the Maratika Cave of Halesi, Khotang, located in eastern Nepal.

The Chungsi Cave is related to both Hindu and Buddhist devotees. Hindu devotees believe that Lord Shiva meditated in this cave while traveling to the most sacred peak of the world. Kailash, which is an abode of him. If you relate it to Buddhism, it is the cave of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), who meditated and spent his spiritual life while he was chasing a demon from Tibet.

Among an abundant number of caves in the Mustang region, Ranchung Chungsi Cave is one of the sky caves, built naturally that entices thousands of travelers around the globe. This cave is truly magic and is adored by the travelers and trekkers in Upper Mustang. This cave has become an unavoidable cave during your tour of the Upper Mustang.

The surroundings of the Chungsi Cave look dramatic, especially the canyon sand rock formations. You usually see people worshipping, lightening incense, and offering prayer flags. Even the local people around Samar, Syangbochen, Ghami, Tsarang, and Lomanthang pay homage at the Chungsi Cave, worship, and spend time with meditation.

One of the local beliefs is also that, if you use the stone of the cave, you will be free from back pain. In many parts of Upper Mustang, Himalayan pink salt can be found.

In short, the Ranchung Chungsi Cave of Upper Mustang Tour gives you a new insight into the Buddhist culture, traditions, lifestyles, and the rewarding landscape in its vicinity. If you see the rock formations, Himalayan views, amazing monasteries, and sacred destinations all along the way, visiting the Ranchung Chungsi Cave of Upper Mustang is worthy and far more exciting.

Best Recommended Chungsi Cave Jeep Tour Itinerary- 07 Days

Day 01: Drive Pokhara to Jomsom.

Day 02: Drive Jomsom-Muktinath and drive further to Samar.

Day 03: Drive to Chhuksang to Syangbochen, Chungsi Cave.

Day 04: Syangbochen to Lomanthang, drive further to Jhong Cave Choser, and explore around.

Day 05: Drive to Yara/Ghara Luri Gumba and Lo Ghekar Monastery-Ghar Gumba.

Day 06: Drive back to Tatopani via Kagbeni and Dhumba Lake.

Day 07: Drive back to Pokhara.

Common Faqs about Chungsi Cave Monastery- Upper Mustang

Where is Chungsi Cave Monastery- located?

Chungsi Cave is located between Samar and Syangbochen village, Upper Mustang. However, it is not on the main driving route.

What is the altitude of Chungsi Cave in Upper Mustang?

The plateau, where the Chungsi Cave is located is 3700 meters above sea level. Samar village is located at an altitude of 3660 meters and Syangbochen at 3800 meters.

When was Chungsi Cave monastery built?

In the 8^th Century, Chungsi Cave Monastery was between the Samar and Syangbochen villages. Guru Rinpoche who was chasing the devil from the Samyak monastery in Tibet meditated there.

What is There Inside the Chungsi Cave Monastery?

The interior is outstanding and elite inside the Chungsi Cave Monastery. There are various decorations of the Holy books of Buddhism, manuscripts, murals, and statues. People prefer to sit and meditate in the cave lighting candles and paying homage.

Is it Possible to Overland- Tour to the Chungsi Cave Monastery by Jeep from Pokhara?

No confusion. Many hidden parts of Upper Mustang are accessible by road and jeep tour from Pokhara. However, you still need to walk or take a horse ride to reach the cave monastery. The tour will be organized by a 4WD jeep, driven by professional drivers. You may go through the Upper Mustang Tour Videos.

Special Permits to Upper Mustang and Cost

As you know, Upper Mustang is a controlled region of Nepal, which is also known as a restricted zone without such permits. You need to obtain special permits from the Immigration Department. Another permit you need to have is an ACAP permit, which is obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board's Office.

The cost for the Upper Mustang Special Permit is 500 USD per person. To obtain the permit, you should be in a group, of at least 2 people as per the rule set by the Nepal government.