Enjoy a range of guided treks across Mustang's desert and snow-capped peaks, fertile farmlands, glacier lakes, remote villages and Buddhist monasteries. Encounter wild horses, yaks and a wide range of wildlife while walking along the Kali Gandaki River with views of glaciers at every turn. From short daily hikes starting from our Lodge to neighboring villages and surrounding mountains to multiday excursions, staying at local guest houses, or camping in style all the way up to the Tibet border.
SHINTA MANI MUSTANG – A BENSLEY COLLECTION
A bespoke, luxurious, cultural and spiritual adventure in the remote, magical Kingdom of Mustang awaits with the opening of the all-inclusive Shinta Mani Mustang – A Bensley Collection in Nepal, in August 2023.
A bespoke, luxurious, cultural and spiritual adventure in the remote, magical Kingdom of Mustang awaits with the opening of the all-inclusive Shinta Mani Mustang – A Bensley Collection in Nepal, in August 2023.
Magical Retreat in the Kingdom of Mustang
With just 29 suites, Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection, is perched high above the town of Jomsom at the gateway of Upper Mustang, an isolated land which was previously forbidden to outsiders for centuries. This almost mythical region with its dramatic landscapes is hidden in the Kali Gandaki valley between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges. It is one of the deepest valleys in the region and one of the most unique and preserved regions in the world.
"Mustang" in Tibetan, translates to "Plain of Aspiration". It is bordered by the Tibetan plateau with an elevation that rises from 1,372 to 8,167 meters above sea level. Shinta Mani Mustang – A Bensley Collection is the perfect base for trekking and adventures in the surrounding area, exploring Buddhist monasteries and culture, or just enjoying the awe-inspiring vistas of some of the highest snow-capped peaks in the world, including the formidable Mount Nilgiri Himal.
Food & Drink
Dining options include the 60-seat Nilgiri Restaurant, named after the majestic mountain it overlooks, and a spacious outdoor dining patio where modern Nepalese and western cuisine are served, using locally sourced and foraged produce. The Aara Bar is named after an exotic local Tibetan/Sherpa liquor. The mixed-use activity room which can be used for meetings, presentations or yoga and exercise classes.
Wellness
The Wellness Center has two exquisite treatment suites with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the mountains; each with a hot plunge pool, steam room, sauna, shower and two massage beds. The Tibetan wellness programme will be developed by a local 11th generation doctor using traditional herbal medicine.
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"This is perhaps one of the most exciting projects we have ever had,” said Bill Bensley via press release. “I have never seen such wildly dramatic landscapes as the mountains and valleys of Mustang, and I am thrilled that Shinta Mani can be the first to introduce this forbidden kingdom to international adventurers.”
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“We are very excited to be pushing the boundaries and creating a new and exciting project that will position Nepal as a quality, luxury destination and not just for budget travellers.”
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..... inclusive experience, with the guests’ journey curated to provide an immersive, luxury experience in the Himalayas in one of the most untouched and preserved regions in the world.
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Award-winning designer Bill Bensley, the creative genius behind leading luxury resorts around the world, is behind the project. He’s bringing his usual art, upcycling and flare to the project, to connect the dramatic landscapes from outside within.
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In keeping with Shinta Mani’s philosophy of giving back to the communities in which they operate, the Lodge will work closely with the Psang Lhamu Foundation which was founded by the owning family after their Mother became the first Nepalese woman to blaze a trail to the summit of Mt Everest in 1993.
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“Our group has been promoting experiential travel in remote areas of Nepal for many years now. It was our dream to create world class, luxury hotel experiences in the Himalayas and we couldn’t find a better partner than Shinta Mani Hotels to collaborate with on this vision as we share similar values. We are very excited to be pushing the boundaries and creating a new and exciting project that will position Nepal as a quality, luxury destination and not just for budget traveller.”
Experiences
A highly personalised privately guided guest experience programme honours the traditions of Sherpa hospitality and has been curated exclusively for our guests. These include unique cultural excursions, trekking, horse riding, rock climbing, cycling, archery, hiking, helicopter tours and wellness.
Bon Villages and Tradition
Bon Villages and Tradition
One of the hidden treasures of Mustang, Bon is a Tibetborn culture that flourished parallel to Buddhism and mainly practices Shamanism. This has led to its followers being persecuted out of Tibet and sometimes forced to convert to Buddhism. Known for rituals such as the Sky Burial, the culture has never entirely vanished from the Himalayas.
Yoga, Movement Therapy & Meditation
Yoga, Movement Therapy & Meditation
Each morning starts with a Yoga Asana (posture) sequence session. This is aligned with breathing practices and guided meditations to relax, strengthen and energize your body and mind. Our wellness experts are available for individual yoga and physical therapy programs to work on specific areas or to learn and deepen your personal practice. The Lodge's exclusive experiences include wellbeing retreats led by industry professionals and Buddhist monks or nuns from local monasteries.
Muktinath Temple Visit
Muktinath Temple Visit
This is one of the highest temples in the world and one of the holiest places of pilgrimage for Hindus and Buddhists. Followers believe that taking a bath in its natural cold springs filled by 108 cow head spigots, guarantees salvation after death. The temple is also widely recognized for its natural gas eternal flame and majestic views of the Himalayas.
Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking
Experience the adventure mountain biking through the beautiful Himalayan landscapes. All riders are supported by a jeep carrying all guest supplies, technicians and tools necessary to enjoy the ride. From short daily drives to the neighboring villages in the lower Mustang up to long multi-day excursions to Upper Mustang.
Horse Riding
Horse Riding
Ride a Mustang horse (small, strong pony) alongside a local Sherpa and experience the rhythm and lifestyle of the Mustang Kingdom. Until the 21st century, horses have been the only way to traverse the Himalayas other than by foot. Locals have domesticated and mastered the art of horse-riding in order to source goods and travel to exchange these with other villages; from short daily rides to the neighboring villages in Lower Mustang up to long multi-day excursions to Upper Mustang.
Design and Sustainability
Prior to opening, design genius - Bill Bensley will add his creative magic to the resort. Interiors will incorporate warm coloured fabrics and materials to reflect the rich tones of the surrounding landscape, which can be viewed from every window of the property. Huge fire pits on the outdoor terrace will allow guests to admire millions of stars in the night sky in warmth as the temperatures dip. Inside, every area will be complemented by the artwork of the late artist Robert Powell, a friend of Bill’s who drew the region’s vernacular architecture in incredible detail.
In his typical upcycling style and with his sustainable mindset, Bill has used recycled materials that he has repurposed into unique new furniture.
In his typical upcycling style and with his sustainable mindset, Bill has used recycled materials that he has repurposed into unique new furniture.
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