An incredible hike with an amazing group of people. Badri managed to get us in and out of Lukla on days when we thought flights may not be possible and he tried his very best to accommodate the needs of the group. The team of porters supporting Karen Darke were out of this world and did an incredible job, with big smiles. Wonderful people. The trek itself was incredible and we had fantastic weather during the whole trip. Although the ‘B Team’ snail ed it, we had an excellent adventure thanks to Badri and his very supportive team.
Travel Nepal
Himalayas Treks Pvt. Ltd.
Upper Mustang: Trekking Nepal’s Last Forbidden Kingdom – 15 Days
The Upper Mustang Trek is a unique 15-day restricted-area trekking package in Nepal that takes you into the ancient Kingdom of Lo, a remote Himalayan land of desert cliffs, cave settlements, Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, and the famous walled city of Lo Manthang.
Known as “Trekking Nepal’s Last Forbidden Kingdom,” this journey is very different from green forest treks in the Annapurna region. Upper Mustang lies in the Himalayan rain-shadow area, so the landscape is dry, windy, colorful, and dramatic. Nepal Tourism Board describes Upper Mustang as geographically close to the Tibetan plateau, culturally preserved, opened to non-Nepali trekkers in 1994, and suitable even during the monsoon because of its rain-shadow location.
This 15-day Upper Mustang Trek begins in Kathmandu, continues to Pokhara, and then follows the classic route from Jomsom to Kagbeni, Chele, Syangboche, Ghami, Tsarang, and Lo Manthang. The route passes through old salt-trade trails, whitewashed villages, prayer flags, chortens, mani walls, sky caves, monasteries, and colorful canyons before reaching the ancient walled capital of Lo Manthang.
The Upper Mustang Trek – 15 Days is suitable for trekkers, cultural travelers, photographers, history lovers, adventure seekers, and international travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide who want a guided restricted-area trekking package with local experts.
Why Choose Upper Mustang Trek?
The Upper Mustang Trek is one of the best cultural treks in Nepal for travelers who want to experience a remote Himalayan kingdom with strong Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Unlike many popular trekking routes, Upper Mustang is not only about mountain views; it is also about ancient culture, history, monasteries, caves, desert landscapes, and preserved village life.
The main highlight of the trek is Lo Manthang, the old walled capital of Upper Mustang. Nepal Tourism Board recommends spending at least one extra day in Lo Manthang to explore the sights and sounds of this unique walled settlement.
This trek is ideal for travelers looking for:
• A 15-day Upper Mustang Trek package in Nepal
• A restricted-area trek to Nepal’s Last Forbidden Kingdom
• A guided trek to Lo Manthang and ancient Mustang villages
• A cultural trekking experience with Tibetan Buddhist influence
• A dry Himalayan desert landscape with colorful cliffs and caves
• A less-crowded alternative to classic Annapurna trekking routes
• A trek suitable for spring, autumn, and even monsoon season
• A tea house trekking experience with local lodges
• A journey through Kagbeni, Chele, Ghami, Tsarang, and Lo Manthang
• A Nepal trekking package for travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide
Upper Mustang Trek Highlights
• Explore Upper Mustang, one of Nepal’s most culturally preserved trekking regions
• Visit Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of the former Kingdom of Lo
• Walk through Kagbeni, Chele, Syangboche, Ghami, Tsarang, Lo Manthang, Drakmar, and Jomsom
• Discover Tibetan-influenced culture, monasteries, chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags
• Enjoy desert-like landscapes, colorful cliffs, deep canyons, and cave settlements
• Visit ancient monasteries and traditional Mustang villages
• Experience the rain-shadow region of Nepal, suitable even during monsoon months
• Enjoy views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Tukuche Peak, and surrounding Mustang landscapes
• Follow old salt-trade routes near the Nepal–Tibet border region
• Stay in local tea houses and mountain lodges
• Explore Pokhara, the beautiful lake city and gateway to the Annapurna region
• Enjoy a guided restricted-area trekking experience with local experts
Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek
The best time for the Upper Mustang Trek is spring, autumn, and monsoon season.
Spring, from March to May, is one of the best times for this trek. The weather is generally comfortable, the skies are often clear, and the dry landscapes of Mustang look beautiful under strong Himalayan light.
Autumn, from September to November, is another excellent season. The sky is usually clearer after the monsoon, mountain views are sharp, and walking conditions are generally stable.
Monsoon, from June to August, is also possible for Upper Mustang because the region lies in the Himalayan rain shadow. Nepal Tourism Board notes that Upper Mustang is one of the few regions in Nepal suitable for trekking even during monsoon because of its rain-shadow location.
Winter, from December to February, is very cold and windy. Many local people move to lower areas during the coldest months, so winter trekking is less recommended unless you are well-prepared and traveling with experienced local support.
Upper Mustang Trek Difficulty
The Upper Mustang Trek is a moderate trek. It does not require technical climbing skills, but trekkers should be ready for dry climate, strong wind, long walking days, uneven trails, high altitude, and basic tea house accommodation.
Nepal Tourism Board describes the Mustang trek as not particularly difficult, with the highest point around 3,800m, but it also notes that the conditions can be difficult because Mustang is cold in winter and always windy. Some trekking routes also cross passes around 4,000m, such as Nyi La Pass, depending on the exact route used.
Good fitness, proper clothing, sun protection, hydration, and a slow walking pace are important. The trek is suitable for active beginners with preparation, but previous hiking experience is helpful.
Upper Mustang Trek Permits
Upper Mustang is a restricted trekking area, so trekkers need special permits and must travel through proper guided arrangements. Nepal Tourism Board states that Upper Mustang requires a special permit, and Nepal’s Department of Immigration states that trekkers in restricted areas should contact authorized trekking agencies, must be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide, and individual trekkers cannot apply directly for the permit.
The trek also lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, so trekkers need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit / ACAP. NTNC’s official e-permit page lists the entry fee as NRs. 3,000 for foreigners and NRs. 1,000 for SAARC nationals, tax included, and says the permit must be carried during the entire trip.
Important permit note for website accuracy: official and industry sources may show different Upper Mustang restricted-area fee information during the 2025–2026 transition. The Department of Immigration service page result still shows the older USD 500 for the first 10 days, then USD 50 per day system, while several recent 2026 trekking-industry updates report a newer USD 50 per person per day model. For your website, the safest wording is: “Upper Mustang restricted-area permit fee is subject to the latest Government of Nepal / Department of Immigration rules at the time of booking.”
Your trekking agency should arrange the restricted-area permit, ACAP permit, guide, transportation, accommodation, and full logistics before the trek begins.
Trip Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
• Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
• Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing, Permit Preparation and Trek Briefing
• Day 03: Drive or Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara
• Day 04: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom and Trek to Kagbeni
• Day 05: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele
• Day 06: Trek from Chele to Syangboche
• Day 07: Trek from Syangboche to Ghami
• Day 08: Trek from Ghami to Tsarang
• Day 09: Trek from Tsarang to Lo Manthang
• Day 10: Explore Lo Manthang and Chhoser Caves
• Day 11: Trek from Lo Manthang to Drakmar via Ghar Gompa
• Day 12: Trek from Drakmar to Ghiling / Syangboche
• Day 13: Trek from Ghiling / Syangboche to Chhusang
• Day 14: Trek from Chhusang to Jomsom via Kagbeni
• Day 15: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara and Return to Kathmandu / Final Departure
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
After your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. You can rest after your international flight and prepare for your Upper Mustang Trek.
In the evening, there will be a short trip briefing. Your guide will explain the trekking route, walking hours, restricted-area permit rules, accommodation, meals, weather conditions, packing list, and important safety information.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Transfer Time: Approx. 30–45 minutes
- Lodging: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Inclusions: Welcome Dinner
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing, Permit Preparation and Trek Briefing
Today is a preparation day in Kathmandu. After breakfast, you can visit famous cultural sites such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, or Boudhanath depending on time and interest.
This day is also important for restricted-area permit preparation. Your trekking agency will check your passport, visa, insurance details, photographs, and trekking documents. Your guide will also help check your trekking gear. If anything is missing, you can buy or rent trekking equipment in Kathmandu.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Activity Time: Approx. 4–5 hours sightseeing and preparation
- Lodging: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Inclusions: Breakfast
Day 03: Drive or Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara
After breakfast, you will travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Pokhara is a beautiful lake city and the main gateway to the Annapurna and Mustang trekking regions.
If you travel by road, the journey follows rivers, hills, local towns, terraced fields, and countryside landscapes. If you choose a flight, you will reach Pokhara quickly and enjoy extra time around Lakeside. After arrival, you can rest and prepare for the early morning journey to Jomsom.
• Altitude: Pokhara – 820m / 2,690ft
• Travel Time: Drive approx. 6–7 hours or flight approx. 25–30 minutes
- Lodging: Hotel in Pokhara
- Inclusions: Breakfast
Day 04: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom and Trek to Kagbeni
Early in the morning, you will take a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, weather permitting. The flight follows the Kali Gandaki Valley and offers views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and the Mustang landscape.
After landing in Jomsom, you will begin trekking toward Kagbeni. The trail follows the windy Kali Gandaki valley through dry landscapes and traditional settlements. Kagbeni is the gateway to Upper Mustang and has old houses, narrow lanes, monasteries, and a strong Tibetan cultural atmosphere.
• Altitude: Jomsom – approx. 2,720m / 8,923ft; Kagbeni – approx. 2,800m / 9,186ft
• Flight/Trek Time: Flight approx. 20 minutes; trek approx. 3–4 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 05: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele
After permit checking at Kagbeni, you will officially enter the restricted Upper Mustang region. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River valley through dry cliffs, open landscapes, and small settlements.
You will pass through villages such as Tangbe and Chhusang before climbing toward Chele. The scenery becomes more dramatic as the trail enters the desert-like Mustang landscape with colorful rock formations and wind-carved cliffs.
• Altitude: Chele – approx. 3,050m / 10,006ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 06: Trek from Chele to Syangboche
Today, the trail climbs through dry valleys, high ridges, and small passes. You will pass through places such as Samar and Bhena before reaching Syangboche.
This section gives excellent views of Mustang’s rugged landscape, deep canyons, and barren cliffs. The walking can feel challenging because of dry air, wind, and uphill sections, but the cultural atmosphere and scenery are very rewarding.
• Altitude: Syangboche – approx. 3,800m / 12,467ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 07: Trek from Syangboche to Ghami
After breakfast, you will continue trekking through open Mustang landscapes. The route crosses high passes and dry valleys before descending toward Ghami.
Ghami is one of the important villages on the Upper Mustang route. It is known for traditional houses, agricultural fields, old chortens, and a long mani wall nearby. The village gives a peaceful cultural experience in the middle of Mustang’s desert-like terrain.
• Altitude: Ghami – approx. 3,520m / 11,548ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 08: Trek from Ghami to Tsarang
Today’s walk takes you from Ghami toward Tsarang, also written as Charang. The trail passes the famous Ghami mani wall, red cliffs, chortens, and dry Mustang valleys.
Tsarang is a beautiful old village with a large monastery and the remains of a historic palace. The village is an important cultural stop before reaching Lo Manthang. The landscape around Tsarang is wide, dry, colorful, and peaceful.
• Altitude: Tsarang – approx. 3,560m / 11,680ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 09: Trek from Tsarang to Lo Manthang
After breakfast, you will trek toward Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Upper Mustang. The trail climbs gradually through dry landscapes and high viewpoints before the walled city appears in the distance.
Lo Manthang is the main highlight of the Upper Mustang Trek. This historic settlement is known for its ancient walls, monasteries, royal palace area, narrow lanes, whitewashed houses, and preserved Tibetan Buddhist culture. Reaching Lo Manthang feels like entering a living museum of Himalayan history.
• Altitude: Lo Manthang – approx. 3,810m–3,840m / 12,500ft–12,598ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Explore Lo Manthang and Chhoser Caves
Today is a full exploration day in Lo Manthang. After breakfast, you can visit local monasteries, traditional houses, narrow lanes, and the ancient palace area. This day allows you to experience the heart of Mustang’s culture more deeply.
Depending on time, weather, and local conditions, you may also visit the Chhoser area, famous for sky caves, cave monasteries, and old settlements near the northern side of Lo Manthang. This side trip gives a special look into Upper Mustang’s ancient cave culture and remote Himalayan lifestyle.
• Altitude: Lo Manthang – approx. 3,810m–3,840m / 12,500ft–12,598ft
• Activity Time: Approx. 4–6 hours exploration
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Trek from Lo Manthang to Drakmar via Ghar Gompa
After breakfast, you will begin the return journey by following a different route through Ghar Gompa if weather and trail conditions allow. Ghar Gompa, also known as Lo Gekar Monastery, is one of the most important monasteries in the Mustang region.
The trail passes through open landscapes, high ridges, red cliffs, and traditional Mustang scenery before reaching Drakmar. This alternative return route makes the trek more interesting than simply repeating the same trail.
• Altitude: Drakmar – approx. 3,810m / 12,500ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12: Trek from Drakmar to Ghiling / Syangboche
Today, you will continue descending through dry valleys, ridges, and village trails. The route passes beautiful Mustang landscapes with colorful cliffs, prayer flags, and wide views of the surrounding hills.
Depending on the final route, accommodation availability, and group pace, you may stay at Ghiling or continue toward Syangboche. This day gives another chance to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Mustang villages.
• Altitude: Ghiling – approx. 3,570m / 11,713ft; Syangboche – approx. 3,800m / 12,467ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13: Trek from Ghiling / Syangboche to Chhusang
After breakfast, you will trek back toward the lower Mustang section. The trail passes through familiar villages, ridges, dry valleys, and windy landscapes.
As you descend toward Chhusang, the scenery slowly changes and the walking becomes easier. Chhusang is a traditional village near the Kali Gandaki valley and is a good overnight stop before returning to Jomsom.
• Altitude: Chhusang – approx. 2,980m / 9,777ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14: Trek from Chhusang to Jomsom via Kagbeni
Today is the final walking day of the Upper Mustang Trek. You will walk from Chhusang toward Kagbeni and then continue to Jomsom.
After leaving the restricted Upper Mustang area, the trail follows the Kali Gandaki valley back to Jomsom. This day gives the final views of Mustang’s desert valleys, windy riverbeds, and mountain scenery. In Jomsom, you can rest and celebrate the completion of the trekking route.
• Altitude: Jomsom – approx. 2,720m / 8,923ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 15: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara and Return to Kathmandu / Final Departure
Early in the morning, you will take a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, weather permitting. After arriving in Pokhara, you can connect to Kathmandu by flight or road depending on your travel plan.
If your international flight is late in the evening, airport transfer can be arranged after arrival in Kathmandu. If you prefer a relaxed ending, one extra night in Pokhara or Kathmandu is recommended.
Your Upper Mustang Trek – 15 Days ends with unforgettable memories of Lo Manthang, ancient caves, monasteries, desert cliffs, Tibetan culture, and Nepal’s Last Forbidden Kingdom.
• Altitude: Pokhara – 820m / 2,690ft; Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Travel Time: Jomsom–Pokhara flight approx. 20 minutes; Pokhara–Kathmandu flight approx. 25–30 minutes or drive approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Not Included unless extra night is booked
- Inclusions: Breakfast
Cost Details
Cost Includes
• Airport arrival and departure transfer
• Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
• Hotel accommodation in Pokhara
• Kathmandu sightseeing assistance as per itinerary
• Restricted-area permit assistance for Upper Mustang
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit assistance
• Tea house / lodge accommodation during the trek
• Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking days
• Licensed trekking guide
• Trekking staff support as per group size
• Porter support as per package policy
• Ground transportation as per itinerary
• Kathmandu to Pokhara transfer
• Pokhara to Jomsom flight assistance
• Jomsom to Pokhara flight assistance
• Basic first aid support
• Restricted-area trekking support
• Farewell or completion dinner as per package policy
• Government taxes and official service charges as per package policy
Cost Excludes
• International airfare
• Nepal visa fee
• Travel insurance
• Personal trekking equipment
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara unless mentioned
• Drinks, snacks, hot shower, Wi-Fi, battery charging, and personal expenses during trek
• Tips for guide, porter, and trekking staff
• Extra hotel nights caused by early arrival, late departure, road delay, flight delay, weather condition, or itinerary change
• Extra cost caused by Jomsom flight cancellation or rerouting by road
• Additional cost caused by landslide, political strike, road blockage, natural disaster, or weather condition
• Emergency rescue, medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, or insurance claim cost
• Extra restricted-area permit cost caused by itinerary extension
• Any cost not mentioned in the Cost Includes section
FAQ
Upper Mustang Trek
Is Upper Mustang Trek good for beginners?
Yes, the Upper Mustang Trek can be suitable for active beginners with good fitness and preparation. It is not a technical climb, but trekkers should be ready for long walking days, dry climate, wind, high altitude, and basic mountain accommodation.
How many days is this Upper Mustang Trek package?
This is a 15-day Upper Mustang Trek package including arrival in Kathmandu, permit preparation, travel to Pokhara and Jomsom, trekking to Lo Manthang, exploration day, return to Jomsom, and return to Kathmandu.
What is the highest point of Upper Mustang Trek?
The main overnight highlight, Lo Manthang, is around 3,810m–3,840m / 12,500ft–12,598ft. Some trail passes on Upper Mustang routes may reach around 4,000m, depending on the route used.
What is the best time for Upper Mustang Trek?
The best time for Upper Mustang Trek is spring from March to May, autumn from September to November, and monsoon from June to August. Because Upper Mustang lies in the rain-shadow region, it is one of Nepal’s best monsoon trekking destinations.
Is Upper Mustang Trek possible during monsoon?
Yes. Upper Mustang is one of the few trekking regions in Nepal suitable during monsoon because it lies in the Himalayan rain-shadow area. However, flights and road access to Pokhara or Jomsom can still be affected by weather.
Do I need a special permit for Upper Mustang Trek?
Yes. Upper Mustang is a restricted area, so trekkers need a special restricted-area permit arranged through an authorized trekking agency. Nepal’s Department of Immigration states that trekkers should contact authorized trekking agencies for restricted-area permits and should be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide.
Do I need ACAP for Upper Mustang Trek?
Yes. Upper Mustang lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, so trekkers need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit / ACAP. NTNC lists the ACAP entry fee as NRs. 3,000 for foreigners and NRs. 1,000 for SAARC nationals, tax included.
What mountains can I see during Upper Mustang Trek?
You can see Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Tukuche Peak, and other Himalayan peaks depending on the route section and weather. The trek is also famous for desert cliffs, caves, canyons, and Tibetan-style villages.
Is Upper Mustang Trek difficult?
The trek is moderate. The trail is not as physically demanding as very high-pass treks like Thorong La or Everest Three Passes, but the dry climate, wind, altitude, and long walking days can make it challenging.
What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
Accommodation during the trek is mainly in local tea houses and mountain lodges. Facilities are basic but comfortable. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, accommodation is arranged in hotels.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Your insurance should cover trekking, medical treatment, emergency rescue, flight delays, and helicopter evacuation if needed.
Can travelers from USA, Australia, Canada, and Europe book this trek?
Yes. Travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide can book this Upper Mustang Trek as a private guided package or group joining package depending on travel dates and permit rules.
Can I book a private Upper Mustang Trek?
Yes. This package can be arranged as a private guided trek depending on your travel date, budget, and group size. Because Upper Mustang is a restricted area, your agency must arrange the required permits and licensed guide.
Can I customize this 15-day Upper Mustang Trek?
Yes. The itinerary can be customized. You can add extra days in Lo Manthang, visit more caves and monasteries, combine the trek with Muktinath, add a jeep return, or include Pokhara and Kathmandu sightseeing.
Cost & Date
| Departure Date | Duration | Availability | Cost | Booking |
|---|
Route Map
Client Reviews
Mitchedberg
Vicky S
Date of experience: March 2025
Clare B
Date of experience: March 2025
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USD 2090Per Person
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An amazing experience – went trekking with 14 others in March / April 2025 and had a wonderful time. A big thank you to Badri and his crew for taking care of every logistical detail; flights, hotels, transportation in Kathmandu, transportation to and from the airport, money exchanges, restaurant reservations, sightseeing, optimal route pacing, gear transportation, and 100 other small details that would have left me flummoxed.
He and his team allow for a trek that’s as simplified as possible, you can focus your energy on getting to base camp, and they do everything else. They even bring you hot towels and lemon ginger tea at the end of each day (every morning too). I can’t say enough good things about the porters / guides, they were unbelievable, true heroes of our trip. We had some very unique challenges in our group, and without expert guides and porters we would absolutely not have had the same high quality experience. When I go back to Nepal for a second trek, I’m calling Badri. Badri is the guide you want – generous, personal, and you can tell he and his team deeply care about the well-being of their clients.
One more thing: Not once, but twice, Badri got our entire group flown from Kathmandu to Lukla (and back) on days when the weather was uncooperative. Both times, there was only a brief window when the clouds cleared — just enough for a single plane to make the journey — and guess whose plane was first in line? Even more impressive: while we were waiting at the airport, Badri already had a backup helicopter option lined up, just in case the planes didn’t fly. This kind of foresight and preparation gave us total peace of mind.