Upper Mustang Trekking

Trip Overview

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Trip Facts

Total Duration 18 days
Trip Grade Moderate
Max Altitude 4110m.
Start From Jomsom
End From Jomsom
Min Size 2 Pax
Max Size 10 Pax
Trip Mode Trekking
Accommodation Tea House
Best Season: Late March to November

Trip Highlights

Witness remote and spectacular landscapes in the Upper Mustang region.
Discover ancient Tibetan culture during your trek.
Explore ancient Buddhist and Bon monasteries, stupas, and mani walls.
Enjoy an exclusive trekking adventure experience in the Upper Mustang.
Let Blossom Expeditions handle the logistics and create a personalized itinerary for your unforgettable Upper Mustang adventure.

Discover the Mystique of Upper Mustang

The Upper Mustang Region, famously known as the Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal, is a land deeply shaped by Tibetan culture and ancient traditions. Located north of Kagbeni, Upper Mustang was once an independent kingdom with Lo Manthang as its capital. Although historically connected to Tibet in the 14th century, it retained its own royal dynasty and cultural identity. Today, Lo Manthang remains a fascinating walled city, where daily life is still guided by Tibetan customs, rituals, and beliefs.

Journey Through an Arid Trans-Himalayan Landscape

Trekking in Upper Mustang to Lo Manthang (3,730 m) requires a special permit, as the region is classified as a restricted area. The trail leads through the arid, wind-sculpted landscapes of the Trans-Himalayan zone, at the northern end of the Kali Gandaki Valley. This Tibet-like terrain features dramatic cliffs, deep canyons, and colorful rock formations, creating a striking contrast to the snow-capped peaks visible to the south.

Although Upper Mustang was annexed by Nepal in the 17th century, it has remained largely isolated from modern influences. The region is home to active 14th-century monasteries, ancient Buddhist shrines, cliff-hanging meditation caves, sacred thangkas, mandalas, and traditional Tibetan Buddhist communities. The vast barren ridges, surreal colors, and open horizons evoke a powerful sense of timelessness and spiritual depth.

A Rare and Exclusive Trekking Experience

The Upper Mustang Trek was opened to foreign trekkers only in 1992 and continues to be strictly regulated. As a result, trekking traffic remains low, offering a rare opportunity to explore a society that has preserved its traditions for centuries. The restricted area permit costs USD 500 per person for 10 days, reflecting the exclusivity and cultural value of this journey. Most Upper Mustang treks begin from Jomsom, which is accessible by flight or road from Pokhara.

Best Time and Trekking Conditions

Upper Mustang lies in a rain-shadow region, making it suitable for trekking throughout much of the year. However, the best seasons for clear skies and comfortable temperatures are from mid-spring to autumn, when the landscapes and cultural sites are at their finest.

Join Blossom Expeditions for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Upper Mustang. We offer carefully designed and tailor-made Upper Mustang Trek itineraries, handle all required permits, and ensure a smooth and enriching trekking experience. Contact us today to plan your adventure and discover one of Nepal’s most culturally rich and visually stunning regions.

Itinerary

Trip Itinerary

Days	Program
01	Arriving in KTM and transfer to Hotel (1300m)
02	City sightseeing (Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Patan Darbar Square)
03	Early morning, fly to Pokhara and half-day sightseeing (International Mountain Museum and boating in Fewa Lake)
04	Fly early morning to Jomsom (2729m) and trek to Kagbeni (2800m) 3-4 hours
05	Trek to Chhuksang (restricted area permit starts from Kagbeni) (3050m) 7-8 hours
06	Trek to Samar (3660m) 3-4 hours
07	Trek to Ghiling (3710m) 6-7 hours
08	Trek to Dhakmar (3840m) 5-6 hours
09	Trek to Lo-mangthang vie Lo gekar (3840m) 7-8 hours
10-11	Rest days and visit some of the oldest and religiously important monastery nearest villages of Lo-manthang
12	Trek to Yara village (3800m) 6-7 hours
13	Day excursion to Luri Gompa and Caves
14	Trek to Charang (3560m) and Drive to Jomsom (2729m) (restricted area permit ends from Kagbeni) 8-9 hours
15	Fly back to Pokhara and Rest
16	Sightseeing Pokhara (Peace Pagoda, Gupteswar Mahadeve Cave and Dave’s Fall) and late afternoon fly to Kathmandu
17	Departure to Home

Trip Gallery

FAQs

Trip FAQs

What permits are required for the Upper Mustang Trek?
You need two permits for the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Trek: Restricted Area Permit (RAP), is required for entering the Forbidden Kingdom north of Kagbeni. An Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), is required as the trek lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area. Blossom Expeditions arranges all necessary permits in advance.

How much does the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit cost?
The Upper Mustang RAP costs USD 50 per person per day (2026 rate). The permit is mandatory for all foreign trekkers entering the restricted area.

Can I trek Upper Mustang solo?
No. Solo trekking in Upper Mustang is not permitted. You must trek with a licensed Nepali guide and have a minimum of two trekkers in your permit application.

What is the minimum group size for Upper Mustang?
The minimum group size is two foreign trekkers. If you are traveling alone, a registered trekking agency can arrange a permit pairing.

What is the best time for the Upper Mustang Trek?
The best seasons are:
Spring (March–May), stable weather, and clear mountain views. Autumn (September–November), Crisp skies and ideal trekking conditions.
Because Upper Mustang lies in a rain-shadow region, it is also excellent during June, July, and August, when other regions of Nepal receive heavy monsoon rain.
Winter (December–February) is not recommended due to extreme cold and the seasonal migration of local villagers.

How difficult is the Upper Mustang Trek?
The trek is rated moderate. The highest point is around 4,110 meters near Lo Manthang, which is lower than many high-altitude treks in Nepal. The main challenges are strong winds, dry terrain, and daily walking distances rather than technical climbing.

Is Upper Mustang a teahouse trek or camping trek?
The Upper Mustang Trek is primarily a teahouse trek. Local lodges provide simple rooms, blankets, and dining areas. Camping is only necessary for remote extensions such as Saribung La Pass.

Is there Wi-Fi or Mobile network in Upper Mustang?
Most villages offer basic Wi-Fi and mobile coverage (NTC/Ncell) for a small fee. However, connections can be unstable due to deep valleys and weather conditions.

Are there ATMs on the Upper Mustang trail?
No. There are no reliable ATMs beyond Jomsom. Trekkers should carry sufficient Nepalese Rupees for personal expenses such as snacks, charging, and tips.

Can I charge my devices during the trek?
Yes. Most teahouses provide charging facilities, usually powered by solar energy or local hydro systems. A small fee per device is common.

Is drinking water safe on the Upper Mustang Trek?
Tap water is not safe to drink without treatment. Trekkers should use purification tablets, a UV filter, or a reusable filtration system. Plastic bottled water is discouraged to protect the fragile environment.

The region offers a rare opportunity to experience the living culture of Nepal’s Forbidden Kingdom.

Trip Highlights

Witness remote and spectacular landscapes in the Upper Mustang region.
Discover ancient Tibetan culture during your trek.
Explore ancient Buddhist and Bon monasteries, stupas, and mani walls.
Enjoy an exclusive trekking adventure experience in the Upper Mustang.
Let Blossom Expeditions handle the logistics and create a personalized itinerary for your unforgettable Upper Mustang adventure.

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