Travel the places beyond the mountains! Witness the snowy mountains in the unusual direction of southern side rather than the normal northern side. Moreover, explore the place that looks mythical and mystical away from the bustling and hustling of today’s world! From ancient caves to monasteries and from deepest gorges to the Himalayan desert valleys; explore the magnificent rain shadow region of Nepal. Book the Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal and immerse into the unique traditional Tibetan culture of Lhopa people of Lomanthang! In addition, relish the chance to walk inside the Himalayan plateau landscape of Nepal.
Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal
Nepal abolished the monarchy and established the Republic system in 2008. Until this year, the Upper Mustang region used to follow the monarchial system under the Shah dynasty monarchy of Nepal. The last king of the region is Late Jigme Palbar Bista. The region is listed as the restricted region of Nepal because of the various things. The major reasons behind the provision of this region kept under the restricted region are the border with the Tibet and unique cultural heritages of the region. Even if the monarchy is no longer in existence, the people still believe and follow the trend culturally. Therefore, it is also called as the forbidden kingdom of Nepal.
What are the requirements to do Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal?
Trekkers have to follow certain guidelines in order to do any kinds of touring and trekking activities inside the restricted regions of Nepal. Some of the popular restricted regions of Nepal are Upper Mustang, Nar Phu Valley, Upper Dolpo, Manaslu, and Kanchenjunga regions. All these regions require special permits along with the trekking permits. A special restricted permit must be issued by the Nepal Immigration Department. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is needed for the trek to Upper Mustang along with the restricted area permit.
Can I do Jeep Tour to Upper Mustang?
The road network is connected with the Upper Mustang Region and Lower Mustang region. However, the road condition is not well maintained and it is off – road. The road condition from Jomsom to Lo Manthang is bumpy but equally scenic. The biggest risk factor about doing the Jeep Tour to Upper Mustang is the risk of altitude sickness. If you travel to the higher altitude places quickly without proper acclimatization then you may be victim of the altitude sickness. Therefore, many travelers prefer to do the trek rather than tour. Please note that lots of people choose to do the Motorbike, Cycling, and Four – Wheel Jeep tour to Upper Mustang. The Mountain Watch Trek can also provide you the best itinerary of the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour operated by the experienced locals!
What is Tiji Festival of Upper Mustang? Tiji Festival 2025 Dates
The Tiji Festival is the most important and major festival of the Lhopa people of the Upper Mustang region who follow the traditional Tibetan culture and Tibetan Buddhism. For three days, the people of the region celebrate this festival inside the various monasteries of the region. It is celebrated to mark the victory of the truth over sin. The dates of the 2025 Tiji Festival are 24th, 25th, & 26th May. If you are planning to visit the Upper Mustang region of Nepal then make sure that you coincide the trek during the time of May. Every year, the dates of the festival change but it doesn’t change the month. Therefore, May month is the most suitable time to do the trek in order to understand the culture, traditions, and rituals of the Lhopa people of the Upper Mustang region.
Chhosar Caves & Monasteries of Upper Mustang
Do you know that the Jampa Lakhang Monastery, Chhode Monastery, and Thupchen Monastery are the major religious places of Upper Mustang? Yes, these are the major monasteries of the region. Jampa was constructed in 14th century, Chhode Monastery was built in 13th century, and Thupchen Monastery was built in 15th century. All these monasteries are iconic but remember that there are numerous small to big monasteries in the region. Yara Ghara civilization and Chhoser Caves are the highlights of the region. Besides Chhoser Caves, you can find lots of shelter able caves in the trail. These caves used to be the place where people used to take shelter during the time of famine and war.
When is the best time to do Upper Mustang Trekking? Is it possible to trek in monsoon season?
The best time to do Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal is during the time of the spring and the autumn season. However, the region is also the rain shadow area and it is also ideal to do trek during the monsoon season unlike in other trekking regions of Nepal.
What is an average cost of trekking to Upper Mustang?
The average cost of the Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal starts from 1400 $ per person to 3100 $ per person depending upon the type of the services you require.
Can I customize the Upper Mustang Trekking Itinerary?
Please let us know about your preferences! We will knit a magnificent trekking trip for you! Our travel planners can create a travel and holiday activities of your liking at the most competitive cost.
Details Itinerary
Day 1: Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara (approx. 30-minute flight), then fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (approx. 20-minute flight).
Day 2: Trek from Jomsom to Kagbeni (approx. 3-4 hours).
Day 3: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (approx. 5-6 hours).
Day 4: Trek from Chele to Syangboche (approx. 6-7 hours).
Day 5: Trek from Syangboche to Ghami (approx. 6-7 hours).
Day 6: Trek from Ghami to Tsarang (approx. 5-6 hours).
Day 7: Trek from Tsarang to Lo-Manthang (approx. 3-4 hours).
Day 8: Acclimatization and exploration of Lo-Manthang.
Day 9: Trek from Lo-Manthang to Yara (approx. 4-5 hours).
Day 10: Trek from Yara to Tangye (approx. 5-6 hours).
Day 11: Trek from Tangye to Chhusang (approx. 5-6 hours).
Day 12: Trek from Chhusang to Muktinath (approx. 5-6 hours).
Day 13: Trek from Muktinath to Kagbeni (approx. 6-7 hours).
Day 14: Drive from Kagbeni to Jomsom, then fly from Jomsom to Pokhara
Day 15: Fly to Kathmandu or Drive to Kathmandu
Day 16: International Departure
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit ($500 per person for 10 days, +$50 per additional day).
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – $30 per person.
- Round-trip flight: Kathmandu – Pokhara – Jomsom (or alternative transport like a jeep).
- Private or public transportation to and from the trekking start point.
- Tea house/lodge stays along the trekking route.
- Hotel stays in Kathmandu and Pokhara (depending on the package).
- Three meals per day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
- Hot drinks (tea/coffee) during meals.
- Professional English-speaking guide.
- Porter for luggage (1 porter for 2 trekkers, carrying up to 15kg per person).
- Salary, accommodation, food, and insurance for guides and porters.
- Sleeping bag and down jacket (refundable after the trek).
- First-aid kit and oxygen cylinder for emergencies.
- Government taxes and trekking agency service charges.
- Emergency evacuation arrangement (helicopter rescue is at extra cost).
Cost Includes
- International Flights & Nepal Visa:
- Flights to/from Nepal.
- Nepal visa fee ($30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days).
- Snacks, drinks, and bottled water.
- Hot showers and charging electronic devices in lodges.
- Additional hotel stays in Kathmandu or Pokhara beyond the itinerary.
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Mandatory high-altitude insurance covering emergency rescue.
- Tips for guides and porters (recommended $100-$150 per person for the trek).
- Extra days beyond the itinerary.
- Personal trekking gear (boots, clothing, poles, etc.).
- Costs due to unforeseen circumstances (flight delays, weather, political issues).
FAQ
Route Map
Client Reviews
Zhang Wei
USA: 22/Jan/2025
Kathy Selli
Canada: 25/Jan/2025
An Unforgettable Adventure to Annapurna Base Camp
I recently completed the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek, and it was nothing short of spectacular! From start to finish, the experience exceeded all expectations.
The trek takes you through such a diverse range of landscapes—starting with lush forests, quaint villages, and terraced fields, and ascending to breathtaking alpine vistas surrounded by towering peaks. Every day offered something new and awe-inspiring.
The highlight, of course, was reaching the base camp itself at 4,130m. Standing amidst the majestic Annapurna range with the sunrise lighting up the peaks was an emotional and humbling experience. It felt like stepping into another world.
Our guides and porters were incredible—knowledgeable, friendly, and always ensuring we were safe and comfortable. They shared stories about the region, explained cultural nuances, and even taught us a few Nepali phrases. The teahouses along the trail were cozy, offering hearty meals, warm hospitality, and a chance to connect with fellow trekkers.
While the trek is challenging at times, especially with the uphill climbs and altitude, it’s entirely doable with proper preparation and pacing. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for an adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a sense of personal achievement.
I’ll carry the memories of this trek with me forever and can’t wait to return to the Himalayas for another adventure. If you’re considering the Annapurna Base Camp trek—do it. You won’t regret it!
John Marta
Australia: 19/Mar/2025
Lantang Trekking in Nepal
The Langtang Valley Trek is one of the most rewarding trekking experiences in Nepal, and my journey with Mountain Watch Trek made it even more special. From the breathtaking landscapes to the warm hospitality of the locals, every moment of this adventure was unforgettable.
The Langtang Trek with Mountain Watch Trek was an incredible experience. The combination of stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, and excellent service made this journey truly unforgettable. If you’re looking for a short yet rewarding trek in Nepal, I highly recommend the Langtang Valley Trek with Mountain Watch Trek!
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