Mustang Coffee: Nepal’s Unexpected Trekking Treat
Have you ever imagined sipping a warm, boozy coffee while trekking in the Himalayas?
Probably not. And yet, tucked away in Nepal’s mountains, there’s a drink that’s been surprising trekkers for decades – the Mustang Coffee.
I first came across it in the Langtang Valley, when a fellow trekker ordered one after a long, chilly day. The name alone piqued my curiosity. What arrived was a steaming mug of rich, aromatic coffee… with a twist. A generous splash of local rakshi (a traditional Nepali spirit) swirled through it, sweetened with honey and topped with a hint of butter or ghee.
A drink with a story
Mustang Coffee is said to have originated in the remote Mustang region of Nepal, where cold winds sweep through high-altitude villages. Locals began mixing coffee with rakshi for warmth and energy, adding butter and honey for richness and a touch of luxury. The result? A drink that’s equal parts comforting, invigorating, and just a little bit mischievous.
The flavour
Imagine the deep bitterness of freshly brewed coffee, softened by the smooth warmth of alcohol, with a creamy, slightly nutty undertone from the butter. The honey lifts it with a mellow sweetness, making each sip a perfect antidote to mountain chill.
Why you should try it
Whether you’re in Langtang, Annapurna, or Mustang itself, this is more than just a drink – it’s part of the trekking culture. It’s a fireside companion after a day on the trails, a story you’ll tell when you’re back home, and a taste of Nepal you won’t find anywhere else.
So, next time you’re in the Himalayas, skip the regular black coffee for once. Order a Mustang Coffee, settle into a warm teahouse, and let the mountains work their magic.
Have a cuppa – Himalayan style.
