Upper Mustang is a special and remote part of Nepal that is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life. The area is commonly associated with desert landscapes, but life struggles to keep going despite the tough conditions.
The snow leopard is a notable creature that inhabits Upper Mustang. Sightings of this secretive big cat, classified as critically endangered, are extremely rare but have been documented in the area. The Tibetan wolf, the blue sheep, and the Himalayan black bear are some of the other huge species that live in the region.
Over 200 kinds of birds were recorded in Upper Mustang, claiming to the richness of the region's avian life. Larger birds, such as the Himalayan griffon vulture, lammergeier, and golden eagle, may often be seen soaring over the mountains. The Tibetan snowfinch, Himalayan snowcock, and stunning fire-tailed sunbird are just few of the smaller species that may be seen in the woods and scrublands.
The flora of Upper Mustang includes several species well-suited to the region's dry, arid climate. Some of the most frequent flora in the area are juniper, rhododendron, and the Himalayan cedar. Medicinal plants native to the area have been utilized by residents for healthcare purposes for generations.
Upper Mustang is also home to a wide variety of insects and other tiny animals. Flying about are butterflies like the Common Peacock and Dark Clouded Yellow, while the grasslands and scrublands are home to praying mantises, grasshoppers, and spiders.
Traveling to Upper Mustang is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see plants and animals that have adapted to the hard climate and stunning landscape.