Upper Mustang Trek is a journey of your dreams to one of the most isolated and ethnically unique regions of Nepal. Known as the "Forbidden Kingdom," Upper Mustang is a destination that offers an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, ancient traditions, and spiritual depth. The trek takes you directly to the walled village of Lomanthang, a place with a deep history where old monasteries and antic houses offer a feeling of mystery. The trekkers can experience the unique lifestyle of the locals who still follow their beloved king and celebrate a vibrant festival such as Tiji, which symbolizes the victory of good over darkness.
This journey presents trekkers spectacular views of the Himalayas deserts and the peaks to the north and south of the trail including Mt. Annapurna (8,091), Nilgiri (7,061m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Lamjung Himal, Chulu West, Chulu East, Tukuche Peak, Thorung Peak, Annapurna II, andAnnapurna IV. The trekkers will witness the historical hill caves in which locals previously sought shelter and spiritual monks practiced meditation. It also runs along the banks of the holy Kali Gandaki, flowing through the world’s deepest gorge and the holograms, black stones considered to be a manifestation of Lord Vishnu.
Upper Mustang Trek is perfect for trekking throughout the year, even in the monsoon season, because the area lies in the rain shadow of the Himal. Regardless of whether one desires thrill or spirituality, this trek is definitely not one that you will ever forget. You can even combine it with the famous Annapurna circuit for a longer adventure through Nepal’s diverse landscapes. Join Touch Planet Treks for the Upper Mustang Trek, a journey beyond the trek, into the culture of the Himalayas.
Upper Mustang Trek - Highlights
- Witness panoramic views of Annapurna (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m), and other towering Himalayan peaks.
- Trek through the diverse terrains of Annapurna Conservation Area, including yak pastures, stunning lakes, glaciers, and thundering waterfalls.
- Explore the sacred Muktinath temple, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
- Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, which is rich in cultural history and Tibetan heritage.
- Interact with the local people of the Mustang area with a view to understanding their way of life.
- Tour through monasteries, which are one of the ancient religious sites in South Asia.
- Explore Jomsom a scenic headquarter town of Mustang at an altitude of 2,720m which has unimaginable mountain views.
- Relax in the city of Lake, Pokhara and enjoy the spectacular views of the mountain peaks.
Upper Mustang Trek – Overview
Embark on an exciting 17-day trek to Upper Mustang, one of the most isolated and mystical regions in Nepal, well known for its extraordinary landscape, ancient Tibetan culture, and spiritual importance. The forbidden kingdom of Mustang, remote and once off-limits to outsiders, now offers trekkers a rare glimpse into a lifestyle, that has been well-preserved for centuries.
The fascinating trek starts from Kathmandu, covering the scenic drive to Pokhara followed by a flight to Jomsom, the gateway to Upper Mustang. From Jomsom, you will be trekking through the ancient trading route of the Kali Gandaki Valley. You will be passing through some villages, including Kagbeni and Chele. Every day is different, you will see breathtaking views of iconic mountain peaks including Annapurna I (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m), and Tukuche Peak (6,920 m).
Trekking along the magnificent landscape of Annapurna Conservation Area offers an opportunity to have a glimpse of diverse wildlife from the elusive Snow Leopard, and Himalayan tahr to several bird species including Lammergeier and Golden Eagle, which flourish in these elevations. The major highlight of this journey is the arrival at Lo-Manthang, a ‘walled’ town, which was the capital of the Mustang Kingdom, in which you will visit monasteries and interact with the locals.
It is not only a physical journey but through a soul too. Considering the stops in the journey make at sacred sites such as Muktinath Temple and enjoy the views of arid and desert-like landscape that too in the Himalayas. The Muktinath Pilgrimage Trek is popular in this region. Next day you will be returning to Jomsom for your flight to Pokhara. It will be memories of Mustang's beauty and richness in culture that shall stay in your memories, consequently making this a trek of a lifetime.
Benefits of Booking Upper Mustang Trek with Touch Planet Treks
- Free airport arrival and departure transfers from/to the hotel are available on private transport.
- Easy booking and reservation system.
- Online trip briefing after booking confirmation with experts.
- Map of Upper Mustang Trek.
- Free Medical Kits for emergencies
- Free Excess Luggage Stored at Touch Planet Treks during the Trek.
- 24/7 phone communication at +977 9841774591
- Touch Planet Treks T-Shirt (to keep) and a Duffle Bag (for trekking Duration).
How Challenging is the Upper Mustang Trek?
The Upper Mustang Trek is a moderately hard trek, best suited to those having at least some experience with trekking. It is neither very difficult nor very easy, which makes it suitable for trekkers from beginner to seasoned. Generally, trekkers go on this trek for about 17 to 18 days, walking 6 to 7 hours each day. This period also covers the very important acclimatization days, which help to neutralize possible risks of altitude sickness, as the trek height goes over 3,000 meters above sea level.
For experienced trekkers, the itinerary can be customized within 12 to 14 days. However, such an itinerary requires a good understanding of the effects of altitude. These well-marked trails trace ancient trading routes. However, trekkers should expect variable conditions such as steep ascents and descents. The remoteness of the area itself is an added challenge, facilities may be limited in the far more remote areas. One has to get sufficient training through physical exercises and psychological preparation for any such expedition. This relates to choosing the best season, staying fit, and probably hiring a guide through the beautiful yet harsh landscape of the Upper Mustang Trek.
Permits for Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang Trek requires three essential permits (Restricted Area permit, ACAP, and TIMS). This permit helps in maintaining the exclusivity of both the culture and environment of this wonderful region. A trekker would require a couple of passport-size photos and a photocopy of the passport to obtain these permits. Touch Planet Treks will obtain all the permits hassle-free for you after your booking confirmation.
Cost of Upper Mustang Trek Permit
Restricted Area Permit: USD 500 per person for a 10-day permit + USD 50 per day
TIMS Card: NPR 2000 per person
ACAP Permit: NPR 3000 per person
Restricted Area Permit
Upper Mustang is famous for its culture and nature, which are well preserved. For this reason, it requires a Restricted Area Permit to enter. Trekkers need to form groups in a number of at least two to obtain this permit. You can obtain the permit from the Immigration Office in Kalikasthan, Kathmandu, at 500 USD per trekkers for 10 days. And an extra 50 USD per day, per head. The application process requires your original passport, visa, and photos.
TIMS Card in Upper Mustang Trekking
The TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System), is important to all trekkers visiting the Upper Mustang area. This card is important in gathering proper information about the trekkers, the weather, as well as the routes to trek, besides being an emergency tool generally used in cases involving trekkers, local porters, and guides. A TIMS Card costs NPR 2000 (approx. $16) per trekker. To obtain the card, the trekkers have to submit a photocopy of their passport and a passport-sized photo. Here in Touch Planet Treks, we will help you obtain the TIMS Card. The fee is included in your package for trekking.
Annapurna Conversation Area Project, ACAP Permit
Upper Mustang falls under the Annapurna Conservation Area, for which the trekkers need an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit). This permit is very vital in terms of conservation, waste management, and offering essential infrastructure in the region. The ACAP charges NPR 3000 (approx. $24) per trekker, providing a one-time entry similar to the TIMS Card. Trekkers have to produce a photocopy of their passport along with a passport-sized photo while applying for ACAP. Touch Planet Treks will help facilitate this process, and the cost is included in your trekking package.
Upper Mustang Trek Cost in 2025
Upper Mustang Trek Cost starts from USD 2300 to USD 3000 in 2025 depending on group size at the time of booking. The Upper Mustang Trek package generally covers accommodation, meals, an experienced guide and porters, and necessary permits.
- For 2 trekkers, the Package Cost Per Person USD 2,645.
- If you are in a group of 3 to 8 trekkers, the Package costs USD 2,585 per person.
- For the trekkers in a group of 9 to 14, the package costs USD 2,420 per person.
- For a group of 15 to 20 trekkers, the package costs USD 2,390 per person.