Upper Mustang Trek 2025 – Cost, Itinerary, and Permits Guide

Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal’s most unique and thrilling trekking experiences. It takes you deep into a restricted area known as the Kingdom of Lo. It is famous for beautiful Himalayan desert landscapes, rich Tibetan culture, and ancient trails that not many travelers have gotten to experience.

Overview

Many adventure seekers are drawn to the Upper Mustang Trek for its rare mix of dramatic landscapes, deep cultural heritage, and exclusivity, but planning it is not always easy. With tricky permit rules, limited access, and concerns about altitude and terrain, it can feel a bit overwhelming to figure it all out.

If you do not have the right info, it is easy to miss key things, like getting the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), understanding how challenging the trek actually is, or picking a season that could make the journey tougher than it needs to be. On top of that, solo trekking is not allowed in Upper Mustang, so you will need a licensed guide and a solid plan.

That is where this guide comes in. We have laid out everything you need: a full Upper Mustang Trek itinerary, up-to-date permit costs, when to go for the best experience, what the trek is really like, where you will stay, how to stay safe, and how to book through Visit Mustang Nepal.

With all this, you will be ready to explore Nepal’s legendary “Forbidden Kingdom” with confidence and actually enjoy every step of it.

Highlights

Visit the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the heart of the former Kingdom of Lo.
Explore sacred Tibetan Buddhist monasteries like Chhairo Gompa.
Witness vibrant traditions, including the Tiji Festival and the Bon religion.
Learn about ancient Amchi (Tibetan healing) practices.
See deep canyons, the Kali Gandaki River gorge, and sky caves.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri mountain ranges.
Travel in a restricted area with limited access and fewer tourists.
Walk ancient trade routes connecting remote villages like Kagbeni, Ghami, and Tsarang.
Explore mystical caves, narrow gorges, and centuries-old trails.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel

When you land at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), our friendly representative from Visit Mustang Nepal will be there to welcome you. We will transfer you to your hotel, and in the evening, our guide will meet you to discuss the exciting Upper Mustang trek over a delicious dinner.

Day 02 :

Drive to Pokhara by Tourist Bus (810 m) – 8/9 Hours

Your journey begins with a scenic drive of about 202 km to Pokhara. If you prefer, there is also a short 35-minute flight. Along the way, you will enjoy beautiful roadside scenery, forests, and quaint villages. Once in Pokhara, you can spend some leisure time exploring Lakeside and soaking in the serene surroundings.

Day 03 :

Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2700 m) and Trek to Kagbeni (2858 m) – 4 Hours

We take a morning flight to Jomsom. During the flight you will see the stunning views of snow-capped peaks. From Jomsom, you will begin the trek to Kagbeni. It s a desert-like village with a unique charm. Walking along traditional trails, you will start to feel the magic of Upper Mustang.

Day 04 :

Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3050 m) – 6/7 Hours

After checking your special permit in Kagbeni, we continue trekking to Chele. The desert valleys here are strikingly beautiful. Walking along sandy, slightly windy trails with gentle ups and downs, you’ll reach Chele village for a peaceful overnight stay.

Day 05 :

Trek from Chele to Syangboche (3475 m) – 7/8 Hours

Today you will trek through Ekle Bhatti and cross Taklam La Pass (3624 m). Along the way, you will be treated to incredible views of Tilicho Peak, Damodar Danda, and Yakwakang. You will experience the mix of plateaus and narrow trails.

Day 06 :

Trek from Syangboche to Ghaymi (3520 m) – 6/7 Hours

After breakfast, we head toward Ghaymi, climbing Yamada La (3850 m) and passing Nyi Pass (4010 m). Along the way, you’ll encounter local villages and Tibetan traditions, giving you a true feel of Mustang culture. The evening brings a warm stay in Ghaymi village.

Day 07 :

Trek from Ghaymi to Charang (3500 m) – 6/7 Hours

Today you will start early, crossing Ghaymi Khola and walking along a plateau. Passing a long Mani wall, you reach Charang. It is a charming village with fields and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing evening.

Day 08 :

Trek from Charang to Lo-Manthang (3700 m) – 4/5 Hours

Today’s walk takes you to the heart of Upper Mustang, Lo-Manthang. Enjoy beautiful views of Tilicho, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Bhrikuti Peak along the way. Arriving in Lo-Manthang, you will be captivated by the amazing beauty of the valley.

Day 09 :

Acclimatization and Exploration at Lo-Manthang – 4/5 Hours

You take a rest day to explore Lo-Manthang at a leisurely pace. Here you will visit Namgyal Gompa. It is an important hilltop monastery, and explore Tingkhar. It is the last main village to the northwest. Today, you will fully experience the local culture and surroundings.

Day 10 :

Trek from Lo-Manthang to Drakmar (3810 m) – 7 Hours

Our return trek begins through Gyakar, visiting the ancient Ghar Gompa with its rich spiritual history. Explore the village surroundings and end the day in Drakmar for an overnight stay.

Day 11 :

Trek from Drakmar to Ghiling (3806 m) – 6/7 Hours

We continue trekking toward Ghiling. Afternoon winds can be strong, so it’s ideal to rest and enjoy the village’s calm atmosphere once we arrive. Overnight stay is at a cozy local lodge.

Day 12 :

Trek from Ghiling to Chhuksang (3050 m) – 6/7 Hours

Walk along scenic trails and enjoy the dramatic landscapes as we descend toward Chhuksang. The Humpty Dumpty path makes for an interesting trek, ending with a comfortable night in Chhuksang.

Day 13 :

Trek from Chhuksang to Jomsom (2700 m) – 7 Hours

Today we descend further to Jomsom. Along the way, enjoy sweeping mountain views and the peaceful valley. Reach Jomsom by afternoon and rest after a rewarding trek.

Day 14 :

Fly to Pokhara and Transfer/Flight to Kathmandu

Today you will catch an early morning flight to Pokhara. After experiencing the beautiful views of the Himalayas. You can return to Kathmandu by flight or tourist bus. Enjoy your final evening in Nepal, shopping, sightseeing, or relaxing at your hotel before departure.

Travellers' Question

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How long does the Upper Mustang Trek take?

The Upper Mustang Trek usually takes about 14 days. That includes flying to Jomsom and walking through the beautiful Mustang area, as well as getting used to the high altitude and seeing cool places like Lo Manthang without rushing.

What is the difficulty level of the Upper Mustang Trek?

The trek is moderately hard. The paths aren’t super steep, but you’ll go up to about 3,800 meters high, like in Lo Manthang. You’ll need to be reasonably fit and take your time to get used to the altitude so you don’t get sick. The trails can be rocky or dry like a desert, and the weather might get cold and windy sometimes.

Do I need a special permit to trek in Upper Mustang?

Yes, you need a special permit called the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to trek in Upper Mustang. It costs about $500 for the first 10 days, plus extra if you stay longer. You’ll also need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card. Do not worry, we at Visit Mustang Nepal can help you get all these permits before your trip.

Can I trek Upper Mustang independently, or do I need a guide?

You can’t trek in Upper Mustang on your own because it’s a restricted area. You have to be part of a group with a registered local guide. This helps keep you safe, respect local rules, and follow the permit requirements.

When is the best time to trek Upper Mustang?

If you want to trek in Upper Mustang at the best time, then plan your trek in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). Those months are great for walking and enjoying the views. And if you’re lucky enough to go in May, you might catch the Tiji Festival. It is a colorful, fun celebration you would not want to miss. Plus, because Upper Mustang is tucked behind the mountains, it doesn’t get a lot of rain, even when most of Nepal is wet.

What kind of accommodation is available on the Upper Mustang Trek?

Along the trek, you will mostly stay in teahouses and simple lodges. They are pretty basic but comfortable enough to rest after a long day. Some places have hot showers (usually for an extra fee), electricity, and even limited Wi-Fi. You will get to try tasty local food like Tibetan and Nepali dishes, and there are usually some Western options too. Staying in teahouses is a great way to meet other trekkers and chat with the locals.

What cultural experiences can I expect on the Upper Mustang Trek?

And in the very middle of the Upper Mustang Trek, you are going to set foot into the Kingdom of Lo, which was an ancient Tibetan Buddhist community with the Buddhist practice in everyday life preserved to the present day. During the trek, you have an opportunity to visit some of the holy monasteries, such as Chhairo Gompa, watch a traditional Bon ceremony, and even participate in the rich Tiji Festival, provided the date is right.

Is altitude sickness a concern on the Upper Mustang Trek?

Yes, some people can get altitude sickness because the trek goes up to about 3,800 meters. It’s important to take it slow, drink plenty of water, and watch for symptoms like headaches or dizziness. Many trekkers use medicine like Diamox to help prevent it. Having experienced guides with you makes the trek safer, too.

How do I get to the starting point of the Upper Mustang Trek?

Most trekkers fly from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Jomsom Airport, the gateway to Mustang. From Jomsom, you begin trekking, typically starting in the village of Kagbeni. Some may choose a jeep ride from Jomsom to Kagbeni if preferred. Flights to Jomsom are weather-dependent, so allow buffer days in your travel plan.

Upper Mustang Trek

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