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Upper Mustang Trek
Trip Type
Trekking In Nepal
Accomodation
Tea House
Destination
Nepal
Start Point
Kathmandu
Region
Restricted Region
Duration
14 Days
The Upper Mustang Trek invites you into one of Nepal’s most mystical regions—an ancient Tibetan kingdom hidden beyond the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Often called the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” Upper Mustang opens the door to unique Tibetan culture, timeless villages, rugged landscapes, and dramatic cliffs. If you dream of stepping into a remote world untouched by modernity, this trek is for you.
Following a well-crafted Upper Mustang trek itinerary, you’ll journey through Lo Manthang, explore ancient monasteries, and witness the colorful prayer flags fluttering in the high mountain winds. Whether you're planning for the full Upper Mustang trek 14 days or a custom plan, the adventure offers unmatched cultural immersion and desert-like Himalayan beauty.
Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek
The best seasons for the Upper Mustang Trek are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when skies are clear, temperatures are moderate, and landscapes are vibrant. The region lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, so even during the monsoon (June-August), trekking is possible with minimal rain — a unique advantage compared to other Nepal treks.
If you're looking for less crowded options, you might also explore off-seasons or check our Short Manaslu Circuit Trek package.
Permits for Upper Mustang Trek
Due to its restricted status, trekkers must obtain:
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Upper Mustang
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Nepal Outdoor Expeditions arranges all necessary permits, saving you time and hassle.
Why Choose Nepal Outdoor Expeditions for the Upper Mustang Trek?
At Nepal Outdoor Expeditions, we understand that trekking in a restricted area like Upper Mustang requires trust, experience, and careful planning. We ensure your trek is safe, culturally respectful, and genuinely enriching — handling all permits, guides, accommodations, and route management with personalized care. Whether it’s your first high-altitude adventure or you’re a seasoned traveler, we’re committed to making your Upper Mustang Trek seamless and unforgettable.
Upper Mustang Trek Cost
Nepal Outdoor Expeditions offers the Upper Mustang trek package starting at USD 1750 per person (based on a group of two trekkers). This cost includes permits, accommodations, meals during the trek, guides, and transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and onward to Jomsom.
For detailed pricing, see our Manaslu Circuit Trek and Langtang Valley Trek packages too!
Preparation Guide:
For Physical fitness:
- This trek is suitable for beginners also with many ascents and descents . So you need to be physically fit to walk for long hours.
For packing list:
- For clothes, you need layered clothing like thermal, jackets, base layer, fleece.
- For footwear, waterproof trekking boots with good grip is needed.
- For gear, you need trekking poles, headlamp, and a day pack.
- Sunscreen, power banks, sunglasses, water purification tablets are required.
Sustainability and Responsibility:
The ecosystem of Everest region has been significantly impacted by increasing tourism. Trekkers have some responsibilities towards the environment to preserve the beauty of the Himalayas for our own good and for the future generation. Here are some ways to practice environmental responsibility:
- You can carry garbage bags with you or dispose of trash in designated areas.
- Avoid using single use plastic water bottles.
- Choose accommodation that follows sustainable practice.
- You can purchase local goods to uplift/ support the local economy.
- Avoid picking rare plants that take long to grow and respect wildlife and their habitat.
- Travel in groups to reduce ecological strain.
Modern Travel Expectation:
Now trekkers seek balance between adventure and the outside world while in trek to be connected. Here are some expectation of modern traveller that we try to meet:
- Internet access as wifi is available at teahouses.
- Comfortable accommodation due to upgraded teahouses and hygiene facilities.
- Available expanded menu of options including pizza, pancakes, and vegetarian dishes.
- Sustainable and ethical practices as sustainable practice of waste management and using renewable energy.
- Customizable trekking experience for solo travellers or groups for more fun in adventure.
Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek
- Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang
- Visit centuries-old monasteries and caves along the Upper Mustang trek map route
- Experience authentic Tibetan culture and traditions
- Cross high-altitude desert landscapes with dramatic cliffs and colorful canyons
- Enjoy stunning views of Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri ranges
- Walk through remote villages untouched by modernization
Short Itinerary ( 14 days )
You’ll have a scenic flight to Pokhara. After you reach Pokhara you can rest or explore the city for the rest of the day. Distance: 200km(flight), altitude loss: 1126m.
You’ll take a morning flight to Jomsom. It is a gateway to Upper Mustang. Your trek begins with a walk through a river valley to reach Kagbeni, it is a historic Tibetan-style village. Distance: 10km, walking hours:L 3-4, altitude gain: 90m.
You’ll trek through Kali Gandaki river, passing medieval villages and cliffs to reach Chele. Distance: 13km, walking hours: 5-6, altitude gain: 240 m.
You’ll ascend and descend for a while and cross the Taklam La Pass(3624 m) and Dajori La Pass(3735 m) before reaching Syanboche. Distance: 12km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 750m.
Through the mix of uphill and downhill, you’ll pass through famous Chungsi Cave to reach Dhakmar which is a red cliff. Distance: 14km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 20m.
You’ll trek through Ghar Gompa which is the oldest monastery in Mustang. Then you’ll gradually ascend to reach the ancient Kingdom of Lo. Distance: 16km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 120 m
It is the rest day to explore the walled city of Lo Manthang. You can visit ancient monasteries, and hike to the famous Chhoser Sky Caves. Distance: 6-7 km, walking hours: 4-5, altitude gain and loss: 60m.
You’ll exit Lo Manthang via a less travelled route. You can witness the stunning views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri peaks. Distance: 15km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude loss: 190m.
You’ll face a challenging day with multiple river crossings and a climb to a scenic village. Distance: 17km, walking hours: 7-8, altitude loss: 410m.
You’ll descend through arid landscapes, crossing several ridges before arriving at Chhusang. Distance: 19km, walking hours: 7-8, altitude loss: 260m.
It is the final trekking day that follows the Kali Gandaki river back to Jomsom. Distance: 16km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude loss: 260m.
You’ll take an early morning flight to Pokhara from Jomsom and rest for the day. Distance: 160km, altitude loss: 1898m.
You’ll have a short flight back to Kathmandu and rest for the day or you can explore Kathmandu City. Distance: 200km, altitude gain: 526m.
This concludes your journey with a final day. You’ll be transferred to the International Airport for your departure.
Cost Includes
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Cost of Domestic flights
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Cost of Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
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Standard meals during the trek
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Accommodation in Teahouses.
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First aid and medical service
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Cost of Guide or porters.
Cost Excludes
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International Airfare
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Nepal Visa Fees
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Cost of Travel Insurance
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Cost of personal expenses
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Extra accommodation in Kathmandu
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Tips for guide or porters
Trip FAQS
More Trip Informations
Health, Safety, and Altitude Sickness
The Upper Mustang Trek reaches an altitude of up to 3,810 meters at Lo Manthang. While the risk of altitude sickness is relatively low compared to higher treks, proper acclimatization is still important. Our carefully designed Upper Mustang trek itinerary allows gradual altitude gain to help minimize risks.
Internet, Drinking Water, and Other Essentials
- Internet Connectivity: Basic WiFi is available in larger villages like Lo Manthang but expect limited connectivity overall.
- Drinking Water: Safe drinking water stations are available; we recommend bringing purification tablets or reusable bottles.
- Packing Essentials: Light layers, warm jackets, trekking boots, sun protection, and essentials for dry weather trekking.
Check our detailed checklist also used for Upper Mustang Trek.
