Inside Shinta Mani Mustang, a New Design-Forward Destination Hotel in the Heart of the Himalayas
A Unique Wellness Experience
I had three fingers pressed to my head when Tsewang Gyurme Gurung told me I needed to stop thinking so much. This was around 10 minutes into my amchi consultation with Gurung, an 11th-generation Tibetan doctor skilled in the Sowa-Rigpa method of healing. He began the session by taking my pulse, asking about my recent meals, and examining my tongue, eyes, and ears. With just that information, he provided insights into my well-being and personalized recommendations for my health.
Exploring the Unexplored
Shinta Mani Mustang, a recently refurbished 29-suite hotel and spa located in lower Mustang, Nepal, offers a unique travel experience. Set on a hillside overlooking Jomsom, the hotel provides personalized excursions that showcase the local way of life. With the region still relatively unexplored and permits needed for tourists to enter, Shinta Mani Mustang introduces luxury travelers to the beauty of the Annapurna Mountain Range and the Kali Gandaki River.
Getting There
Obtaining a visitor’s permit is just the beginning of the journey to Shinta Mani Mustang. Travel involves flights to Kathmandu and Pokhara, followed by a scenic yet challenging car ride to Jomsom. Alternatively, chartered helicopters are available from Kathmandu for a more direct route. The effort to reach the hotel is rewarded by its plush accommodations and breathtaking surroundings.
Design and Hospitality
Luxuriously redesigned by renowned designer Bill Bensley, Shinta Mani Mustang showcases local textiles and materials, integrating traditional elements like decorative yak fur and conch shell doors into its modern design. Each guest is assigned a personal butler to enhance their stay, ensuring a seamless and luxurious experience.
Wellness and Relaxation
The hotel’s SoRig Spa offers personalized wellness consultations with on-site amchi practitioners, combining scientific and traditional healing methods. Guests can enjoy customized massages and treatments in a serene environment, including hot pools, steam rooms, and saunas.
Exploring the Region
Shinta Mani Mustang’s curated excursions take guests to nearby villages, monasteries, and temples, providing insights into the local culture and history. Visits to ancient Buddhist monasteries, meditation caves, and traditional eateries offer a well-rounded experience of the region’s heritage.
Culinary Delights
The hotel’s dining experiences range from bespoke meals in scenic locations to themed dinners featuring local and international cuisine. Guests can savor traditional Thakkali thalis, local produce, and unique dishes prepared by talented chefs. The Aara bar offers a selection of beverages to unwind after a day of exploration.
Memorable Experiences
After a five-day stay at Shinta Mani Mustang, guests leave with a deeper connection to the region and its people. The hotel’s emphasis on cultural immersion and unique experiences ensures a transformative journey for every traveler. From stunning landscapes to warm hospitality, Shinta Mani Mustang offers a memorable retreat in the heart of the Himalayas.