Overview
The Upper Mustang Trek takes you to the legendary "Forbidden Kingdom," a remote and restricted region near the Tibetan border that was closed to outsiders until 1992. This unique trek offers a journey through a high-altitude desert landscape of dramatic red cliffs, deep canyons, and ancient cave dwellings carved into sheer rock faces.
The cultural heart of the trek is Lo Manthang, the walled capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang, where Tibetan Buddhist culture has remained remarkably preserved for centuries. Here you'll explore ancient monasteries with stunning murals, visit the four-story royal palace where the king still resides, and wander through narrow streets that feel frozen in time.
Unlike any other trek in Nepal, Upper Mustang lies in the Himalayan rain shadow, offering dry trails even during monsoon season. The landscape resembles the Tibetan plateau - barren yet stunningly beautiful, with colorful rock formations, the world's deepest gorge (Kali Gandaki), and panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri. This trek requires a special permit ($500 for 10 days) and must be arranged through a registered trekking agency.
Trek Highlights
Best Time to Trek
Spring (Mar - May)
Pleasant temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and clear skies. The famous Tiji Festival takes place in May - a three-day Buddhist festival with masked dances and rituals in Lo Manthang.
ExcellentAutumn (Sep - Nov)
The most popular season with crystal-clear skies, stable weather, and perfect trekking conditions. Excellent visibility for mountain photography.
Best SeasonNote: Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow and can be trekked year-round, though winter (Dec-Feb) is very cold with possible snow.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Early morning departure from your hotel in Kathmandu for the scenic drive to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region and the starting point for the Upper Mustang Trek. The journey follows the Prithvi Highway along the winding Trishuli River through beautiful rural landscapes, terraced farmlands, and traditional villages. You'll pass through charming towns and witness daily Nepali rural life along the way, with occasional views of Manaslu and Ganesh Himal on clear days. Arrive in Pokhara (820m), Nepal's second-largest city and the beautiful lake city. Check into your lakeside hotel and enjoy free time to explore Phewa Lake - take a boat ride, visit the Tal Barahi Temple in the middle of the lake, or simply relax with stunning views of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) reflecting on the water. In the evening, explore Lakeside's vibrant restaurants, bars, and shops, and prepare your gear for the adventure ahead. Evening briefing on the Upper Mustang restricted area regulations and permit requirements.
What's Included
Cost Includes
- All airport/hotel transfers in private vehicle
- 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (3-star with breakfast)
- 1 night hotel accommodation in Pokhara (3-star with breakfast)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Best available teahouse/lodge accommodation during trek
- Experienced English-speaking trekking guide (government licensed)
- Assistant guide for groups of 4 or more
- Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers, max 20kg per person)
- Round-trip flights Pokhara - Jomsom - Pokhara
- Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit ($500 for first 10 days)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- All ground transportation as per itinerary (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu)
- First aid medical kit including pulse oximeter
- Sleeping bag and down jacket (can be returned after trek)
- Duffle bag for porter to carry your belongings
- Trekking map of Upper Mustang region
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
- All government taxes and official expenses
- Emergency evacuation arrangement assistance (cost covered by insurance)
- Welcome dinner in Kathmandu
Cost Excludes
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal visa fee ($30 USD for 15 days, $50 for 30 days - available on arrival)
- Travel insurance (mandatory - must cover high altitude trekking up to 4,000m & helicopter evacuation)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except welcome dinner and breakfasts)
- Bottled/mineral water during trek (purification tablets provided)
- Hot showers and battery charging at lodges ($3-5 per use)
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (including famous local apple brandy)
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, souvenirs)
- Tips and gratuities for guides and porters (recommended)
- Emergency evacuation/helicopter rescue costs (covered by insurance)
- Jeep rental for optional Chhoser cave excursion in Lo Manthang
- Any costs arising from unforeseen circumstances (weather, flight delays, political unrest)
Important Information
- • Special Permit Required: Upper Mustang is a restricted area requiring a permit costing $500 per person for the first 10 days, then $50 per additional day.
- • Travel Insurance is Mandatory and must cover high altitude trekking up to 4,000m and emergency helicopter evacuation.
- • Guide Required: You must trek with a licensed guide in this restricted region - independent trekking is not permitted.
- • Wind & Dust: Afternoon winds are strong - bring a good quality dust mask/buff and windproof jacket.
- • Flight Delays: Jomsom flights can be delayed due to weather - we recommend keeping buffer days in your schedule.
Photo Gallery
Lo Manthang - The Walled Capital
High-Altitude Desert of Mustang
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Upper Mustang called the 'Forbidden Kingdom'?
Upper Mustang was a restricted kingdom closed to outsiders until 1992 to preserve its unique Tibetan Buddhist culture. The capital, Lo Manthang, was never conquered by neighboring kingdoms and maintained its independence, with its own king, until recently.
How much does the Upper Mustang permit cost?
The restricted area permit costs $500 per person for the first 10 days, then $50 per additional day. This is set by the Nepali government and must be arranged through a registered trekking agency.
Is Upper Mustang difficult to trek?
The trek is rated as moderate. Altitudes are lower than Everest or Annapurna (max 3,950m), so altitude risk is minimal. The main challenges are strong afternoon winds, dusty trails, and long walking days.
What is the accommodation like?
Teahouses in Upper Mustang are basic but comfortable, with twin-sharing rooms and shared bathrooms. Facilities are simpler than in Everest or Annapurna but clean and welcoming. Hot showers are available at most lodges for an extra fee.
Can I trek Upper Mustang during monsoon?
Yes! Upper Mustang lies in the Himalayan rain shadow, so it receives minimal rainfall even during monsoon (June-August). This makes it one of the few treks in Nepal that's viable during the rainy season, though clouds may obscure mountain views.