Upper Mustang Trek Cost, Itinerary, Permits & Best Time to Visit the Hidden Kingdom
Find Your Tour
search
Upper Mustang Trek Cost, Itinerary, Permits & Best Time to Visit the Hidden Kingdom
3rd Sep, 2025

Upper Mustang Trek Cost, Itinerary, Permits & Best Time to Visit the Hidden Kingdom

- soleencounters

The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal’s most exclusive trekking experiences, often called a journey into the “Last Forbidden Kingdom.” Unlike the more crowded trekking regions of Everest and Annapurna, Upper Mustang offers a rare combination of ancient Tibetan culture, dramatic desert-like landscapes, walled cities, and centuries-old monasteries.

Table of Contents

Trekking in Upper Mustang feels like stepping back in time. From the red cliffs and deep canyons of the Kali Gandaki Valley to the ancient capital of Lo Manthang, this trek offers adventure, history, and cultural immersion. As the region lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, it is also one of the few treks in Nepal suitable even during the monsoon season.

If you are planning your adventure in 2025/2026, this guide covers everything you need to know—cost, itinerary, permits, best time, and tips—to make your journey unforgettable.

Why Choose the Upper Mustang Trek?

Upper Mustang is often described as a “kingdom within a kingdom.” Until 1992, it was restricted to outsiders, preserving its unique Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Even today, access requires special permits, ensuring fewer trekkers compared to other popular routes.

What makes this trek special:

  • A chance to explore Lo Manthang, the walled city and cultural capital of Mustang.

  • Stunning desert-like terrain with colorful cliffs, caves, and canyons.

  • Visits to centuries-old monasteries such as Thubchen and Jampa Lhakhang.

  • Rich Tibetan-influenced culture with festivals like Tiji Festival.

  • A trek in Nepal’s rain-shadow area, allowing for year-round travel.

For travelers seeking a remote, culturally immersive, and adventurous journey, Upper Mustang Trek is the perfect choice.

Best Time to Visit Upper Mustang

Unlike other trekking regions, Upper Mustang lies in the trans-Himalayan rain shadow, meaning it is dry and arid throughout most of the year.

  • Spring (March to May): Clear skies, moderate temperatures, and colorful wildflowers at lower altitudes. An excellent season for photography.

  • Summer/Monsoon (June to August): Surprisingly one of the best times, as Upper Mustang receives very little rain. This is also when the vibrant Tiji Festival is celebrated in Lo Manthang.

  • Autumn (September to November): Popular trekking season with crisp weather, clear views, and pleasant walking conditions.

  • Winter (December to February): Very cold, especially in Lo Manthang, but offers complete solitude. Only recommended for experienced trekkers.

For most trekkers, the ideal seasons are spring and autumn, though the monsoon period is equally rewarding.

Upper Mustang Trek Permits

Trekking in Upper Mustang requires special permits, as it is a restricted region.

  1. Restricted Area Permit (RAP):

    • USD 500 per person for the first 10 days

    • USD 50 for each additional day

  2. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):

    • NPR 3,000 per person (approx. USD 25)

  3. Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS Card):

    • USD 20 per person

Important notes:

  • Trekkers must travel with a registered trekking company like Sole Encounters Trekking. Independent trekking is not allowed.

  • Minimum of two trekkers required for RAP.

Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary (15 Days Example)

While itineraries can vary, here is a classic 15-day Upper Mustang Trek plan starting from Kathmandu:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m) – Transfer to hotel
Day 2: Drive or fly to Pokhara (827m)
Day 3: Fly to Jomsom (2,720m), trek to Kagbeni (2,810m)
Day 4: Trek to Chele (3,050m)
Day 5: Trek to Syanbochen (3,800m)
Day 6: Trek to Ghami (3,520m)
Day 7: Trek to Tsarang (3,620m)
Day 8: Trek to Lo Manthang (3,840m) – Explore walled city
Day 9: Excursion around Lo Manthang (monasteries, caves, and Chhoser village)
Day 10: Trek back to Dhakmar (3,820m)
Day 11: Trek to Ghiling (3,570m)
Day 12: Trek to Chhuksang (3,050m)
Day 13: Trek to Jomsom (2,720m)
Day 14: Fly to Pokhara and relax by the lakeside
Day 15: Drive/fly back to Kathmandu – Departure

This itinerary balances cultural exploration with steady acclimatization, ensuring both safety and enjoyment.

Cost of Upper Mustang Trek

The cost of the trek depends on group size, duration, and services. On average, the Upper Mustang Trek cost ranges between USD 2,000 – USD 3,500 per person for a 15-day trip.

What’s included in the cost:

  • Restricted Area Permits & ACAP fees

  • Domestic flights (Pokhara – Jomsom – Pokhara)

  • Accommodation in teahouses/lodges

  • Professional trekking guide & porter support

  • Meals during the trek

  • Ground transfers and logistics

What’s excluded:

  • International flights

  • Travel insurance

  • Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, tips)

For detailed cost breakdown and customization, you can talk to our trekking experts.

Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek

  • Explore the ancient capital Lo Manthang with its royal palace and monasteries.

  • Witness the mystical Tiji Festival, celebrated with colorful dances and rituals.

  • Enjoy panoramic views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri ranges.

  • Trek across unique barren landscapes unlike anywhere else in Nepal.

  • Visit ancient cave dwellings carved into red cliffs.

  • Experience authentic Tibetan-influenced hospitality and culture.

Tips for Upper Mustang Trekking

  • Physical preparation: Moderate fitness is required as you’ll be walking 5–7 hours daily.

  • Acclimatization: The trek reaches nearly 4,000m, so ascend gradually.

  • Packing: Warm layers, windproof jackets, good trekking boots, and sun protection are essential.

  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi and phone signals are limited in Upper Mustang.

  • Cultural respect: Mustang is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism—dress modestly and ask before taking photos in monasteries.

Conclusion

The Upper Mustang Trek 2025/2026 is more than just a trek—it’s an expedition into Nepal’s ancient Himalayan heritage. With its untouched landscapes, timeless culture, and spiritual richness, it remains one of the most rewarding trekking experiences in the world.

If you’re ready to explore this hidden kingdom, check out our detailed package for the Upper Mustang Trek or contact us to start planning your journey today.

Recent Posts

ASSOCIATED WITH
  • Associated With
  • Associated With
  • Associated With
Find & Follow Us on
WE ACCEPT
  • We Accept
  • We Accept
  • We Accept

© 2011 - 2025 All rights reserved. Sole Encounters Trekking Pvt. Ltd.

This site uses cookies to optimize your user experience. By using this site, you are consenting to our use of these cookies. Check out our Privacy policy

Accept Cookies