Quick Questions? Email Us
Unraveling the Mysteries of Upper Mustang Trek
Mustang region is a gem locale of Nepal having wonders of Mother Nature and grandeurs of Culture! The region is divided into two major regions because of the sensitivity of the location as it is in the border between Nepal and Tibet. The Lower Region is habituated mainly by Thakali people whereas Upper Mustang region is mainly habituated by Tibetan origin people. Nepal Government has placed Upper region as the restricted region due to its unique culture, natural resources (that includes Uranium), and political ties with Tibet! The place is very unique because the region still practices monarchy while the country is already a Republican state abolishing monarchy.
Therefore, the region is also known as the last forbidden kingdom of Nepal. The Everest Trekking Routes Pvt. Ltd. has knitted an ideal Upper Mustang Trek that includes exploration of ancient caves and monasteries of region. Additionally, the trek also features walking on the shores of holy Kaligandaki River (sacred river of both Hindus and Buddhists).
Lo Manthang (3840 m)
The capital city of Upper Mustang region is the city of Lo Manthang. The meaning of Lo Manthang means the walled city. The city is surrounded by man-made walls built in ancient times. There are many monasteries and ancient houses inside the town. The place is also called as the “Himal Paariko Gaon” which means the village beyond mountains. The Lo Manthang area of Upper Mustang is in the rain shadow area of Nepal. Therefore, Upper Mustang Trek is also possible to do during monsoon season. Normally, monsoon season is considered as the low and unfavorable time to do trekking in Nepal. If you have allocated holiday during the months of monsoon season in Nepal then the Upper Mustang Trek is an ideal trekking activity to do in Nepal.
Chhosar Caves
The Upper Mustang region of Nepal is the mythical trekking destination where lots of Buddhists monasteries and chhortens are present. On this trekking trail there are many mystical caves on the walls of hills. These caves are huge inside with many sections. In the place called Chhosar, you can find these caves. In ancient times people used to spend quality time to avoid war and famine in these caves. As a foreign traveler visiting these caves will provide the mystical feeling and idea of how life used to be in these parts of Nepal.
Kaligandaki Gorge and Shaligrams (Fossils)
Do you know that Kaligandaki Gorge is the deepest gorge of the world? Yes, in the natural landscape scenario the gorge of Kaligandaki is the deepest among all the gorges of the world. The gorge is not only significant in terms of natural setting but also in terms of Hindu and Buddhists followers! The river is sacred place where you can find lots of fossils. These fossils are believed that the inscription is of Lord Vishnu. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu was cursed to be a stone. Therefore, he chose shores of Kaligandaki River as his place. The rare fossil found on the shores of Kaligandaki River resembles various Lord Vishnu Avatars.
Besides the Upper Mustang Trekking, trekkers can explore the Kaligandaki periphery to understand the geological importance; we can knit an ideal geological itinerary. Please feel free to contact our travel planners to customize the fossil research trekking or tour itinerary for trekkers from scientific research background.
Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Dates for 2025
Tiji Festival is the major festival of the Upper Mustang People. This festival is celebrated for three days. According to mythology, Dorje Jono defeated the monster who was about to destroy the region. To protect the people and region from collapse and destruction, Dorje Jono didn’t spare his own father as well. Therefore, to celebrate his victory and to worship his heroics people of the region celebrate this festival.
It is highly recommended to people across the globe who is wishing to do the Upper Mustang Trek to plan their trekking trip during the months of Tiji Festival. Normally, the Tiji Festival falls in the month of May.
TIJI Festival Dates for 2025
The Tiji Festival Dates for 2025 are as follows:
- Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang in 2025 1st Day = 24th May, 2025
- Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang in 2025 2nd Day = 25th May, 2025
- Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang in 2025 3rd Day = 26th May, 2025
People who are willing to do voluntary donations are requested to consult with the travel planners of the Everest Trekking Routes Pvt. Ltd. We can arrange proper donations and special prayers for these people who wish to do something for the monks of the monasteries of the place. Even more, trekkers can indulge in cultural excursions while doing trekking in the region. Many people prefer to immerse into the culture and traditions of people as well besides natural settings. Make sure that you are well prepared before finalizing the trek to Upper Mustang.
Can I do Jeep Tour instead of Upper Mustang Trek?
Kathmandu and Lo Manthang is connected via road nowadays. Therefore, it is possible to do Upper Mustang Jeep Tour instead of Upper Mustang Trek. The total road distance between Kathmandu and Lo Manthang Upper Mustang is approximately 440 kilometers. This is not the actual distance as the road depends upon the travel patterns. If you wish to reach the Lo Manthang Rural Municipality this is an actual road distance. However, people doing the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour often include trip to Korala Pass. This is the border between China (Tibet the autonomous region of Republic China) and consists of Nepal’s lowest Himalayan pass which is about 4300 m from sea level.
Book the Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal package with the Everest Trekking Routes Pvt. Ltd. High altitude trekking and customized trekking activities in Nepal is best organized by us. We employ only locals in any kinds of trekking and tour activities in Nepal. Therefore, our trekking or tour trips ensure that trekkers or travelers get full worth of every penny spent for the trip.
Relatate Picture Gallery
Trip Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
- DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU (1,400M)
- DAY 02: EXPLORE DAY IN KATHMANDU AND PREPARATION SPECIAL PERMIT
- DAY 03: KATHMANDU TO POKHARA BY TOURIST BUS/ 6 TO 7 HOURS DRIVE
- DAY 04: MORNING FLIGHT TO JOMSOM (2,715 M) AND TREK TO KAGBENI – 04 HRS.
- DAY 05: TREK TO CHHUSANG (2800 M) 6 HRS.
- DAY 06: TREK TO SOMARE (3,340 M) 6 HRS.
- DAY 07: TREK TO GHELING (3,540 M) 5 HRS.
- DAY 08: TREK TO TSARANG (3,560 M) 6 HRS.
- DAY 09: TREK TO LO-MANTHANG (3700M) 5 HRS.
- DAY 10: AT LO-MANTHANG REST DAY FOR EXPLORATION AROUND ITS VILLAGE AND MONASTERIES.
- DAY 11: TREK TO DHAKMAR (3,810 M) 6 HRS.
- DAY 12: TREK TO SYANGBOCHE (3,540M) 6 HRS.
- DAY 13: TREK TO CHHUSANG (2,800M) 6 HRS.
- DAY 14: TREK TO KAGBENI (2,830 M) 5 HRS.
- DAY 15: TREK TO JOMSOM (2, 715 M) 4 HOURS.
- DAY 16: FLY FROM JOMSOM TO POKHARA (820M) 25 MIN FLIGHT
- DAY 17: POKHARA TO KATHMANDU BY TOURIST BUS 6 TO 7 HOUR
- DAY 18: FINAL INTERNATIONAL DEPARTURE
Details Itinerary
DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU (1,400M)
We will excitedly welcome in the International Airport in Kathmandu. You will be transferred to hotel in Kathmandu. We will discuss about our travel details and the agency will collect all documents required to get the restricted permit.
In the evening, the agency will host a welcome dinner and you will be introduced to your trekking guide for this trip. Overnight in a hotel
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
DAY 02: EXPLORE DAY IN KATHMANDU AND PREPARATION SPECIAL PERMIT
If you want, we can arrange a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley in the various UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES like Swyambhunath, Bouddhanath, Pashupatinath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Patan Durbar Square. Travelers can choose to roam the valley themselves or do the shopping in Thamel area. Today is the exploration and trip preparation day. It is the restricted area trek. Therefore, our office staff will prepare the special restricted permit for you from the immigration office in Dillibazaar. In the evening we will again meet and discuss about itinerary that begins from tomorrow. Overnight in a tea house
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 03: KATHMANDU TO POKHARA BY TOURIST BUS/ 6 TO 7 HOURS DRIVE
We will take the tourist bus to Pokhara along the Prithivi Highway. The road trip of about 6 to 7 hours or more may be tiring but the scenery of highway towns and rivers make the journey joyous. In the evening, you can stroll around the clamor of Lakeside Pokhara.
The Lakeside area of Pokhara is the most touristic place to be as you can enjoy the eateries and bars located at the shores of Phewa Lake. Overnight in a hotel
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 04: MORNING FLIGHT TO JOMSOM (2,715 M) AND TREK TO KAGBENI – 04 HRS.
We will take the morning flight to Jomsom. Please note that most of the flights to Jomsom or from Jomsom to Pokhara are in the morning because of the strong wind waves in the afternoon in the Jomsom Airport. The flight is joyous as it is over the hills and river valleys of Kaligandaki River. Upon arriving at the airport, we will start the trek along the banks of Kali Gandaki River to Kagbeni Village.
This is the clustered village located at the foothill of Muktinath Temple mainly habituated by the Tibetan Nepalese people. Overnight in a tea house
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 05: TREK TO CHHUSANG (2800 M) 6 HRS.
We will begin our trekking after breakfast. The first section of our trekking is on the road to Lo Manthang. Note that you can take the four – wheel jeep to Lo Manthang too. The journey is easy until we reach lunch place. After the lunch we will leave the road and start the gentle uphill then again meet the road continuing our walking trip through small villages, few green fields and small streams. Overnight in a tea house
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 06: TREK TO SOMARE (3,340 M) 6 HRS.
The terrain of the Upper Mustang Trek is similar for almost 3 days of the trek. It is in the rain shadow area. Therefore, we will be walking in a barren land which seems like changed due to soil erosion. In several places we will have to cross streams without using the suspension bridge if we choose to walk on the classical trail rather than the road to Lo Manthang. Somare is a small village where you can find about 20 houses built close to each other with two small and three small chortens.
The hill behind the village has a small memorial place where you can visit in the evening. The scenery of mountains like Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna make your trek worthwhile so far. Overnight in a tea house
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 07: TREK TO GHELING (3,540 M) 5 HRS.
From today, our trekking starts to feel like we are walking in a completely different world full of mythical sceneries. Yes, today we will walk on the wilderness trail for most of the times as we do lots of uphill and downhill. However, the prayer flags and resting places built at the top of the ridges make our trekking less boring.
The scenery is almost similar with the same Tibetan barren landscape. Overnight in a tea house
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 08: TREK TO TSARANG (3,560 M) 6 HRS.
Today’s trek is divided into two distinct sections. The first part takes you through a more remote and wilderness area, where you’ll hike along riverbanks and deep valleys, surrounded by the majestic landscape of the Himalayas. This serene setting gives you an opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of the region. The second part of the trek brings you to a few small villages, offering a chance to interact with the local people.
You will learn about their unique lifestyle and their strong cultural ties to the Tibetan way of life. In the evening, you’ll have the chance to visit a local home and share a traditional cup of Himalayan Tibetan tea, a perfect way to connect with the locals. Overnight in a tea house
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 09: TREK TO LO-MANTHANG (3700M) 5 HRS.
Today marks the arrival at Lo-Mantang, the historic and culturally rich capital of Upper Mustang. Before reaching this iconic village, you will pass several caves along the trail, which have historical significance. Many of these caves were once used as shelters by people fleeing famine and war, making the hike not only physically rewarding but also deeply steeped in history. As you trek, you will also encounter pre-historic monasteries and chortens (Buddhist shrines), which are scattered throughout the trail, giving you a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural life of this ancient land.
Upon arrival at Lo-Mantang, you’ll have time for a short exploration around the village and the tea house where you will be staying. Don’t worry; tomorrow, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the village and its famous monasteries in more depth. Overnight in a tea house
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 10: AT LO-MANTHANG REST DAY FOR EXPLORATION AROUND ITS VILLAGE AND MONASTERIES.
Today is dedicated to a much-needed rest day, giving you a chance to explore Lo-Mantang and its surroundings. Lo-Mantang is renowned for its well-preserved Tibetan culture and history. You can visit ancient monasteries, such as the Jampa Lhakhang (also known as the “Chimney Monastery”) and the Thubchen Monastery, where you can witness traditional Buddhist rituals and learn about the history of this mystical kingdom.
Strolling through the narrow alleys of Lo-Mantang, you can also observe the traditional architecture, featuring whitewashed buildings with distinctive Tibetan designs. This day allows you to soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the village and explore at a leisurely pace, giving you a deeper understanding of the Upper Mustang’s cultural heritage. If our trip is in the time of Tiji Festival then we will have to spend three days attending the whole festival.
We can also choose to spend a day participating in the festival. Please note that 24th, 25th, and 26th May are the dates of the 2025 Tiji Festival. Overnight in a tea house
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 11: TREK TO DHAKMAR (3,810 M) 6 HRS.
After a day of rest, you’ll continue your trek by heading toward Dhakmar, located at a higher altitude. The trail will take you through a variety of terrains, offering sweeping views of the landscape. As you ascend, you’ll pass through villages and smaller settlements, gradually adjusting to the higher altitude. Dhakmar is known for its spectacular views and the fascinating red cliffs that dominate the area. You’ll spend the night in a tea house, where the views of the surrounding mountains will be unforgettable. Overnight in a tea house
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 12: TREK TO SYANGBOCHE (3,540M) 6 HRS.
Today, you’ll head toward Syangboche, a beautiful village that offers a peaceful atmosphere, situated amidst the grandeur of the mountains. The trek will take you through varied landscapes, including remote villages, and the trail will wind through rugged terrain, providing an authentic experience of Upper Mustang. This day will be slightly easier in terms of altitude gain, giving you a chance to acclimatize and enjoy the stunning views around you.
Syangboche provides a quiet setting to reflect on the incredible journey so far. Overnight in a tea house
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 13: TREK TO CHHUSANG (2,800M) 6 HRS.
The trek today will bring you down to Chhusang, a village known for its natural beauty and friendly inhabitants. As you descend, you’ll notice the landscape gradually change, with more greenery and less barren terrain. Chhusang is located along the Kali Gandaki River, a perfect spot to rest and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. This village is also a gateway to the more populated regions of Lower Mustang, so you can start to feel a slight change in the environment.
After another rewarding day of trekking, you’ll spend the night at a tea house. Overnight in a tea house
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 14: TREK TO KAGBENI (2,830 M) 5 HRS.
Today’s trek will bring you to Kagbeni, a vibrant village located at the junction of the Kali Gandaki River and the Jhong Khola Valley. Kagbeni is a historical settlement and often referred to as the “Gateway to Mustang.” The village has retained its traditional Tibetan culture and architecture, with narrow alleys and stone-built houses. This will be a great day to explore the village’s old monastery and the impressive views of the surrounding mountains.
Kagbeni also holds spiritual significance for pilgrims, who pass through the village on their way to sacred destinations. After a fulfilling day of trekking, you’ll settle in at a tea house for the night. Overnight in a tea house
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 15: TREK TO JOMSOM (2, 715 M) 4 HOURS.
On your final day of trekking, you’ll head toward Jomsom, the administrative center of the Mustang district. The trek will take you through picturesque valleys and open landscapes, offering stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. As you arrive in Jomsom, you’ll notice a more developed town with modern amenities, making it a stark contrast to the isolated villages you’ve passed through during your trek.
You’ll have time to explore the town, enjoy the local cuisine, and reflect on the incredible adventure you’ve just completed. After the trek, you can either relax or prepare for your onward journey. Overnight in a tea house
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 16: FLY FROM JOMSOM TO POKHARA (820M) 25 MIN FLIGHT
We can choose to either do the drive to Pokhara or flight to Pokhara. The flight is about 25 minutes long and it saves lot of time for us. This is also the meeting point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the town is famous among travelers across the globe as the windiest town. If our flight is cancelled due to the bad weather then we can choose to use jeep drive to Pokhara.
Upon reaching Pokhara, we will enjoy with our crew members and experience nightlife of Lakeside Pokhara. Overnight in a hotel
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 17: POKHARA TO KATHMANDU BY TOURIST BUS 6 TO 7 HOUR
Early in the morning after breakfast, we will take the tourist bus from the bus park and head back to Kathmandu through Prithivi Highway. Once we are at Kathmandu, our agency leader will treat us the cultural Nepalese traditional meal in a restaurant where we can enjoy folk dances and songs. We will also discuss and do the reviews about the trip. Overnight in a hotel
Accommodation: Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
DAY 18: FINAL INTERNATIONAL DEPARTURE
Our airport representative will take you to the International Airport for the final departure. If you wish to do any other trips after the trek then you can contact us. We will knit the beautiful tour packages. The best tour to do after Upper Mustang is the Bhaktapur Tour or Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour. If you are not doing any trips then we will promise to meet again and bid farewell in the international airport. Our private vehicle will take you to the airport. You will be given the trip completion certificate before departing to your country.
Accommodation: Guest House
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up and Drop by private car/van/bus.
- Hotel In Kathmandu: 3 Nights of ***3-star accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Hotel in Pokhara: 2 Nights Accinidation in Pokhara with Breakfast.
- Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist Bus.
- Pokhara to Jomsom and Jomsom to Pokhara by Domestic air ticket.
- Trekking Permit (ACAP) Annapurna Conservation Area of Project.
- Special Upper Mustang Permit USD 500 Per Person for 10 Days.
- Your Meal During the Trekking as Your standard meals (3 times a day Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with a cup of tea or coffee).
- Accommodation in Trekking: All accommodations in lodge/tea houses during the trek.
- Trekking Guide: Government License Holder An experienced, helpful, friendly, and English-speaking Trekking Guide. His well-paid salary, meals, accommodation insurance, etc.
- Trekking Porter: porters (1 porter for 2 people). Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transportation.
- After the successful trip, Everest Trekking Routes will Provide an Adventure Certificate.
- Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid for by your Travel insurance company.
- Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- All government taxes and service charges.
Cost Excludes
- Meal in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Extra Days Restricted area USD 50 days
- Private Car, Jeep, Van, or Helicopter
- personal expenses (bar bills, beer, coke, a bottle of water, hot water, phone call, laundry service, Helicopter rescue, Electronic device recharge such as Mobile, Camera, etc.)
- Tips for guide, porters, and driver.
Trip Map
FAQ
Where is Upper Mustang?
Upper Mustang is located in the Mustang district of Gandaki Province in Western Nepal. It is in the border with Tibet (Autonomous region of People’s Republic of China). The road distance between Kathmandu and Upper Mustang (Lo Manthang Rural Municipality) is about 462 kilometres.
What is Upper Mustang Trek?
The Upper Mustang Trek is the beautiful trekking trip to do in Nepal inside the restricted region. This walking journey takes trekkers to the place beyond mountains. Therefore, the Upper Mustang region is also referred as the “Himal Paariko Gaon” that means village behind mountains. Usually, mountains are seen in the northern side but travellers get to see mountains in the south while trekking in the trail.
How to reach Upper Mustang?
You can reach Upper Mustang either by flight or by road. There are regular flights to Jomsom and then travellers can either travel on a jeep or by walking they can enter Upper Mustang. It takes about 7 to 8 hours of drive from Pokhara to reach Upper Mustang by road.
Where does the Upper Mustang region start?
The Upper Mustang region starts from Kagbeni Village. The village is about 10 to 11 kilometres away from Jomsom. Please note that Jomsom and Muktinath temple is in the Lower Mustang region of Nepal. The Lower Mustang region doesn’t require you to get the restricted permit unlike Upper Mustang region.
Why Upper Mustang is called as the Forbidden Kingdom?
The region was restricted for foreigners up until 1992 and the region still practices the monarchy system. The country Nepal has abolished the Monarchy system and adopted the Republic system of governance but the region is still practising the local monarchical system. However, the latest children of king no longer live in the region.
Who is the king of Upper Mustang?
The monarchical system was abolished in Upper Mustang region back in 2008 but the local community still holds this tradition. As of 2025, the current king regarded by the locals is Jigme Dorje Palbar Bista. He doesn’t have any political power but culturally people still regard him as a king. Therefore, he is the last official king of Upper Mustang.
Is Upper Mustang similar to Tibet?
The region is in the border of Tibet. Therefore, people as well as their language and culture have the Tibetan heritage. The landscape is also similar as both these places are in rain shadow areas.
Why Upper Mustang is the restricted region?
Nepal Government has kept this region as restricted region because of strategic position as it is in the border of Tibet. Our country has the One China Policy and the country officially doesn’t recognize Tibet as a country but the nation recognizes it as a part of China. Therefore, all the places bordering Tibet are under the restricted zones barring few places. In addition, this region is kept as a restricted region of Nepal to protect the unique natural and cultural heritages.
How much does it cost to do Upper Mustang Trek?
All – inclusive, Upper Mustang Trek cost starts from 1840 $ per person. However, the cost to do Upper Mustang Trek depends upon the kind of services that you need on the trek. The cost increases if you prefer to add more items other than mentioned in includes section. Our trip cost is carefully quoted as you can get all the basic amenities as well as facilities required during the trip.
When is the best time to trek to Upper Mustang?
The best time to do the Upper Mustang Trek is during the months of spring and autumn season but interestingly the trek is possible during monsoon season as well. Usually, monsoon season is not the best time to do trek in Nepal but it is ideal time to do the Upper Mustang Trek as the region is in the rain shadow region of Nepal. The place experiences little rainfall and it is easy for trekkers to trek during the monsoon season as well.
What are the dates of Tiji Festival?
Usually, the Tiji festival takes place in the month of May every year. This festival is the biggest festival for the people of Upper Mustang region of Nepal. In this festival, people celebrate the victory of truth over sin and there are multiple ceremonies inside the monasteries of Lo Manthang with colourful dances as well as chanting mantras by the monks. The festival lasts for more than 3 days. However, major events take place for three days. The dates of Tiji Festival 2025 are 24th, 25th, and 26th May. If you wish to experience the festival then book the trek during this time of the year.
What happens in case of emergencies?
The Everest Trekking Routes Pvt. Ltd. is the only trekking agency in Nepal that employs the locals for any kinds of trekking and tour activities. We don’t send non locals as a trekking guide or porters for the trek or tour in any destinations. Our major aim is to provide the authentic experiences to our valued clients. Almost all our trips are operated by the locals. Therefore, in case of emergencies, our experienced local guides know what to do. In addition, these guides are in continuous contact with the agency throughout the trip. You are safe as we will do our utmost best to take care of you. We will do the needful in these circumstances including the helicopter rescue or emergency jeep drive to the nearest medical aids.
Are there any hospitals and health posts in Upper Mustang route?
Yes, there are many medical health posts along the Upper Mustang Trek route. The accessibility of road network means that you can easily reach the nearest health care establishment without any hiccups in case of emergencies. You can find the proper hospital in Lo Manthang and Jomsom. Besides these places, there are small healths posts located in the villages that are in the Upper Mustang Trekking route.
How long does it take to do Upper Mustang Trek?
It takes about 18 days to do the Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal including arrival and departure. This is one of the most scenic and culturally significant long detour trekking routes of Nepal. In 18 days, you get to know about the unique culture and traditions of the Nepalese people living in the Upper Mustang region who follow the traditional Tibetan culture as well as rituals. If you wish to reduce the number of days to explore the region then you can book our Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. The itinerary of Upper Mustang Jeep Tour is about 13 Days.
Do I need to get restricted area permit to visit Muktinath Temple and Jomsom?
No, you don’t need to get the restricted area permit to visit the Muktinath Temple and Jomsom. You can simply buy the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and do the exploration of Muktinath area including a sacred nunnery. Beyond Kagbeni Village, you require the special restricted area permit issued by the Immigration Department of Nepal.
What kind of accommodation and meal facilities are there in Upper Mustang?
Before 2019, trekking in the Upper Mustang region required tent accommodation and cooking crew members. But now, there are enough tea houses and lodges. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about lodging and food. After the completion of road network from Jomsom to Lo Manthang, there are many eateries and lodges. The number of tourists visiting the place also increased rapidly. This resulted in the opening of lots of eateries and lodges. You can get good and comfortable room to sleep and healthy meal to enjoy. Almost every lodges offer similar menu with items ranging from local Nepalese dishes to Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Our recommendation is that you take the local Dal Bhat for more energy and better digestion in high – altitude places.
How much does an Upper Mustang Permit cost?
The restricted area permit issued by Nepal Immigration Department costs 500 $ per person for 10 Days. Please note that you need at least two persons to visit the restricted regions of Nepal. Therefore, the 10 days’ permit costs 1000 $ minimum! If you wish to add more days then you have to pay 50 $ per person per day. Besides this, trekkers must get Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) that costs Nepalese currency 3000 rupees.
Can I do Upper Mustang Jeep Tour instead of trekking?
Yes, you can do Upper Mustang Jeep Tour instead of Upper Mustang Trek. The road network is there and the road is off – road but it is accessible to four wheel jeep. Therefore, lots of domestic as well as foreigners are doing the jeep tours to Lo Manthang. Please note that doing a jeep tour is risky in terms of altitude sickness as well. Driving takes you high – altitude places faster risking the chance of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour costs less than trek as you can complete the tour in 13 days with the cost of 1780 $ per person.
Join Upcoming Trips 2024
| Departure Date | Duration | Availability | Cost | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07/04/2025 | 15 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person | |
| 17/04/2025 | 12 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person | |
| 30/04/2025 | 15 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person | |
| 05/05/2025 | 15 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person | |
| 15/05/2025 | 15 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person | |
| 29/05/2025 | 15 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person | |
| 05/09/2025 | 15 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person | |
| 15/09/2025 | 15 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person | |
| 27/09/2025 | 15 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person | |
| 07/10/2025 | 15 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person | |
| 25/10/2025 | 15 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person | |
| 05/11/2025 | 15 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person | |
| 15/03/2025 | 15 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person | |
| 25/11/2025 | 15 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person | |
| 05/12/2025 | 15 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person | |
| 13/12/2025 | 15 Days | Available | USD 1840 Per Person |
Latest Customer Reviews
Falk Naumann
Germany,
Excellent Verified Purchase
Garriga Maestro
Barcelona, Spain,
Excellent Verified PurchaseExperiencia alucinante Upper Mustang
Viajar al Mustang es trasladarse a un mundo distinto, fuera del espacio y el tiempo al que
estamos acostumbrados. Paisajes alucinantes, muy poco concurridos y bastante polvo.
La organización del trek fue perfecta y muy amigable
Source by: Tripadvisor
Guided by: Bal Bahadur Ghale
Josep Sagarra
Barcelona, Spain,
Excellent Verified PurchaseTrekking diferente y, de momento, poco masificado
Un trekking muy interesante. No es de alta montaña pero los lowa, los paisajes y el patrimonio son únicos.
Tanto la agencia como el guía y el porter han sido solícitos, amables y pacientes.
Contactamos con la agencia desde España y al llegar a Katmandú no hubo ningún problema. Todo lo contrario. Se adaptaron a nuestras peticiones.
Source by: Tripadvisor
Guided by: Bal Bahadur Ghale
Moreno Rondriguez
Barcelona, Spain,
Excellent Verified PurchaseUn trekking distinto y único
El trekking del Upper Mustang es espectacular: poco masificado, soberbios paisajes y
patrimonio. Ha estado bien organizado. Tanto el guía como el poter han sido amables y
solícitos, pero también discretos. Hemos disfrutado un montón.
Source by: TripAdvisor
Guided by: Bal Bahadur Ghale
Drumetu
Bucharest, Romania,
Excellent Verified PurchaseAmazing trip in Upper Mustang and Tiji Festival
Hello! We have been with the agency in the Upper Mustang area for 15 days and the Tiji Festival. We are using the services of the agency for the second time, the first time was in 2019. We are so grateful to find them. They are taking care of everything we need …permits for accessing the area, accommodation, our trail, transportation. Dansingh our guide is a very special person, fluent in English and easy to talk and joke with him. We discussed every single part of our trial. They are flexible and ready to make changes when is possible to visit other places, and detour to the normal route. Resuming in just a few words: everything was perfectly organized for us and we were able to enjoy the beauty around us, and, yes there is so much beauty and views and plenty of other things to enjoy! We especially say thanks to our guide Dansingh, to our porter Pal, and to the agency for making this mesmerizing trip happen! For sure we will come back again and we will have another trip with them . Thanks a lot!
Source by: TripAdvisor
Guided by: Dhansingh Gurung
Gabriela Das
London, UK,
Excellent Verified PurchaseAmazing trek in Upper Mustang during Tiji festival
Upper Mustang was for a while on our bucket list but it did surpass our expectations – it was simply jaw-dropping – the beauty of the scenery, the richness of the culture, the experience of the Tiji festival, and meeting and spending time with all the people living in this special part of the world – all contributed to a memorable life experience. It has been the second time when we have been to Nepal for trekking and the second time with Everest Trekking Routes. As before, we felt safe and well cared for in the hands of Dansingh Gurung and his team. He arranged everything smoothly for us from the permits including the extra days needed as well and was very accommodating with the suggestions of adding extra points of interest out of the classic Upper Mustang trekking route. We just got home with all these rich memories but we already started dreaming of our new destination – Upper Dolpo – it will be for sure with Everest Trekking Routes. Thank you Dhansingh to you and your team! Till next time!
Source by: TripAdvisor
Guided by: Dhansingh Gurung
Fantastic landscape and authentic native Upper Mustang lifestyle
In April 2024 we travelled first-time to the Himalayas and chose Upper Mustang for the well-preserved lifestyle and landscape. Also, elevation rarely exceeded 4000m. High peaks can be seen from the trek all the time, although at a distance. The trek is mainly through sandy and rocky terrain and is easy to walk once we adopt walking distances and techniques compared to our normal sea-level hikes. Great cultural experience in the monasteries, temples, and villages on the way. Accommodation in simple teahouses with one central room with a fireplace was part of the journey.
Special thanks to the greatly inspiring and caretaking Everest Trekking Routes team – Rabin as an agent, Karna as a guide, and Madan as support.
We are looking forward to the next travel to the Himalayas and will happily return to Rabin, Karna, and Madan.
Source by: TripAdvisor