Upper Mustang Trek Cost – 2025 Packages & Options

August 23, 2025

If you are planning a trek in Nepal and searching for a destination that is both adventurous and culturally rich, then the Upper Mustang Trek should be at the top of your list. Known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” Upper Mustang is a restricted area that still preserves ancient Tibetan culture, unique desert-like landscapes, and centuries-old monasteries. But one question every trekker asks before booking is: How much does the Upper Mustang Trek cost?

In this long and detailed article, we will give you a complete breakdown of the Upper Mustang Trek cost in 2025, including permits, accommodation, meals, guide/porter services, transportation, and package details. We will also compare it with other popular trekking routes such as the Annapurna Circuit Trek, Mustang Trek, Jomsom Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, and Muktinath Tour so you can choose the best trek for your budget.

If you are searching for keywords like Upper Mustang Trek cost, Upper Mustang trek price, Nepal restricted area trekking cost, Mustang trek 2025, and best trekking packages in Nepal, you are in the right place. Let’s explore everything you need to know.

Why Choose the Upper Mustang Trek?

Mustang Trek

Before we get into the cost details, let’s understand why so many adventure seekers and cultural travelers dream of trekking to Upper Mustang:

Restricted Area – Experience a special region of Nepal with limited permits, fewer tourists.
Unique Desert Landscape – Dramatic cliffs, caves, and colorful rock formations unlike other treks.
Ancient Tibetan Culture – Visit centuries-old monasteries, chortens, and local villages.
Lo Manthang (Walled City) – Explore the former kingdom with its royal palace and old streets.
Buddhist Traditions – Witness age-old rituals, prayer flags, and festivals like Tiji.
Hidden Kingdom History – Learn about Mustang’s role as part of the old salt trade route.
Local Lifestyle – Meet Mustang people, known for horse culture and warm hospitality.
Best Weather in Monsoon – Lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, making it ideal in summer.
Adventure & Remote Feel – A trek that feels wild, isolated, and very different from busy routes.
Stunning Views – Panoramas of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and barren high plateaus.

All these factors make Upper Mustang special, but also more expensive due to restricted permits and remoteness.

Key Factors That Affect Upper Mustang Trek Cost

The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal’s most exclusive adventures, offering unique landscapes, ancient caves, and vibrant Tibetan-influenced culture. The cost of this trek can vary significantly depending on several important factors. Understanding these can help you plan better and choose the best experience within your budget.

1. Permits & Government Fees

Upper Mustang is a restricted area, which means special permits are mandatory. These permits are the largest part of the trek’s cost. They ensure safety, conservation, and regulated travel. Working with a reliable trekking agency like Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd. helps you secure all permits hassle-free.

2. Duration of the Trek

The longer you trek, the more you will spend on accommodation, food, and staff support. Most itineraries range from 10–14 days, depending on whether you want to explore Lo Manthang fully or include side valleys. Shorter treks reduce costs, but longer treks offer a richer experience.

3. Guide & Porter Services

Hiring a licensed guide is mandatory for Upper Mustang. Guides provide cultural insights, ensure safety, and make your trek smoother. Porters are optional but highly recommended, as they carry your luggage and let you enjoy the scenery without strain.

4. Accommodation & Meals

In remote Mustang villages, tea house accommodation and food are limited and slightly more expensive than in popular trekking regions. Staying in clean, comfortable tea houses ensures a safe and cozy experience but adds to the overall cost.

5. Transport Options

Most treks start from Jomsom, which you can reach by flight or jeep. Flights are faster but cost more, while jeep rides are cheaper but longer and less comfortable. Choosing your transport affects the total budget significantly.

6. Group Size

Traveling with a group can reduce costs per person for guides, porters, and sometimes transportation. Solo trekking or small private groups generally cost more because the expenses for staff and logistics are divided among fewer people.

7. Season

Upper Mustang is most popular in spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). During these peak seasons, prices for flights, accommodation, and permits may slightly increase due to high demand. Off-season trekking can be cheaper but may have unpredictable weather.

8. Independent vs. Package Tour

Independent trekking may seem cheaper, but package tours offered by agencies like Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd. provide all-inclusive services—permits, transport, guides, porters, accommodation, and meals—making the journey stress-free and safe.

Pro Tip: Choosing a reputable agency ensures not only cost transparency but also a rich, safe, and unforgettable Upper Mustang adventure.

Permit Costs for Upper Mustang Trek

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

The Upper Mustang region is a restricted area of Nepal, so special permits are required to enter. These rules are set by the Government of Nepal to protect its unique culture, history, and environment.

Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Cost: USD 500 per person for the first 10 days.
- Each extra day after 10 days: USD 50 per person per day.
- This permit is compulsory for all foreigners entering Upper Mustang.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Cost: NPR 3,000 (around USD 25) per person.
- This is needed because the trek route also goes through the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Conditions & Rules
- Trekkers must be at least two people in a group to get the RAP (solo permits are not issued).
- The permit is only issued through a registered trekking agency in Nepal like Safe Holiday Adventure.
- You must carry your original passport and valid Nepal visa for the permit process.
- Once issued, the permit is non-transferable and non-refundable.
Where to Get It
- Permits are arranged in Kathmandu or Pokhara by your trekking agency.
- Independent trekkers cannot apply directly.
Why So Expensive?
- The fee helps preserve local culture, monasteries, and the environment, and it limits the number of trekkers, keeping Upper Mustang authentic and less crowded.

In short, for the Upper Mustang Trek, every trekker needs RAP ($500+) and ACAP ($25), arranged only through a licensed trekking agency, with a minimum of two people in the group.

Cost Breakdown of a 12-Day Upper Mustang Trek

Festival in Upper Mustang

Here’s a realistic estimate of how much you will spend:

1. Permits

$630 per person

2. Transportation

Pokhara–Jomsom Flight (round trip): $299
Jeep (cheaper option, 2-day drive one way): $80–100 per person

3. Accommodation

Teahouses: $6–10 per night
For 11 nights: $70–100

4. Meals

$20–30 per day
For 12 days: $240–360

5. Guide & Porter

Guide: $25–30 per day = $300–360 for 12 days
Porter: $20–25 per day = $240–300 for 12 days

6. Miscellaneous

Showers, charging, Wi-Fi: $2–5 each
Tips: $80–100 total

Total Estimated Cost:

Budget trek: $1,300 – $1,500
Standard trek with agency: $1,700 – $2,000
Luxury trek: $2,500+

Why Book a Trekking Package with a Local Agency?

Booking with a trusted local agency such as Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd. gives you peace of mind and professional support. Our packages generally include:

✔ All trekking permits (RAP & ACAP)
✔ Licensed English-speaking guide & porter
✔ Accommodation in teahouses
✔ All meals during trek
✔ Domestic flights or jeep transport
✔ Insurance for guide & porter
✔ Airport transfers in Kathmandu & Pokhara

❌ Exclusions: International flights, Nepal visa, insurance, meals in cities, drinks, tips.

👉 Average Package Price: $1,800 – $2,200 per person.

Comparison with Other Popular Treks in Nepal

Mustang trek

1. Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost

Duration: 12–18 days
Permit: ACAP ($30)
Total Cost: $900 – $1,400

👉 Cheaper than Upper Mustang because no restricted permit is needed.

2. Jomsom Trek Cost

Duration: 6–8 days
Permit: ACAP ($30)
Total Cost: $600 – $900

👉 Budget-friendly, culturally rich, and short.

3. Muktinath Tour Cost

Duration: 4–6 days
Cost: $400 – $600

👉 Perfect for pilgrims.

4. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Cost

Duration: 3–5 days
Cost: $350 – $550

👉 The best budget trek with sunrise views.

5. Everest Base Camp Trek Cost

Duration: 12–14 days
Cost: $1,300 – $1,800

👉 Similar cost to Upper Mustang but a very different experience.

Best Season for Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang region of Nepal is renowned for its distinctive desert-like landscapes, rich Tibetan culture, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery. Choosing the right season is crucial for enjoying the trek safely and comfortably. Here is a detailed guide to help you plan your trip.

Traditionally Tibetan Stupa and Prayer Flags

Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the best times to trek in Upper Mustang. During these months:

Weather: Day temperatures are usually mild (13°C–20°C), while nights can be cold (-5°C to -3°C).
Trail Conditions: The trails are mostly dry and easy to walk.
Highlights: Flowers bloom, and the valleys look colorful. You can also enjoy clear mountain views.
Tip: Spring showers may occur in lower areas, but they are usually short and not a problem.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is considered the peak trekking season in Upper Mustang.

Weather: Days are comfortable, and nights are cold but manageable. Skies are mostly clear.
Trail Conditions: Dry and safe, with stunning visibility of mountains and landscapes.
Highlights: You can see golden fields during harvest time and experience local festivals.
Tip: This is the busiest season, so book accommodations and permits in advance.

Monsoon (June to August)

Upper Mustang is in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, so it receives very little rainfall during the monsoon.

Weather: Generally dry and sunny, unlike other parts of Nepal that get heavy rain.
Trail Conditions: Trails remain mostly dry, so trekking is possible.
Highlights: The green valleys look fresh and alive after the rains.
Tip: Some lodges may be closed, as it is off-peak season.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is the coldest season, and trekking is more challenging.

Weather: Day temperatures rarely go above 10°C; nights can drop below -10°C.
Trail Conditions: Snow may cover the higher trails, making them slippery and difficult.
Highlights: The region is quiet and peaceful, with very few trekkers.
Tip: Only experienced trekkers with proper winter gear should attempt the trek in this season.

Summary Table

Season	Best For	Weather Highlights
Spring (Mar–May)	Fewer crowds, flowers in bloom	Mild days, colorful landscapes
Autumn (Sep–Nov)	Clear skies, cultural experience	Comfortable temperatures, festivals
Monsoon (Jun–Aug)	Quiet trekking, unique scenery	Dry trails, green landscapes
Winter (Dec–Feb)	Adventure seekers only	Very cold, snow at high altitude

For most trekkers, autumn (September–November) is the best season, with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and cultural experiences. Spring (March–May) is also ideal for fewer crowds and blooming landscapes. Monsoon can be considered if you want a quieter trek, while winter should only be attempted by well-prepared, experienced trekkers.

No matter which season you choose, make sure you have all necessary permits, dress in layers, and travel with a local guide for a safe and unforgettable Upper Mustang adventure.

Upper Mustang Trek – Gear List & Estimated Costs

The Upper Mustang trek is a beautiful adventure in the remote Himalayan region. You need proper preparation because it’s high altitude and dry, desert-like terrain. Below is a complete guide for gear and cost estimates.

Gear List

Clothing

Base Layers: Comfortable, moisture-wicking T-shirts, thermal tops, and long underwear.
Mid Layers: Fleece jacket or light insulated jacket.
Outer Layers: Windproof and waterproof jacket and pants.
Down Jacket: Warm jacket for cold nights (good to have -10°C to -15°C rating).
Headwear: Warm hat for cold, sun hat for day, buff or scarf for dust.
Gloves: Warm gloves plus light liner gloves.
Footwear: Waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support, camp shoes, thick socks.
Gaiters: Protect legs from dust, sand, and small stones.

Backpacks

Main Bag: 60–80L bag (can be carried by porter).
Day Pack: 25–35L bag for daily essentials.
Dry Bags: For keeping clothes and electronics safe from dust and water.

Trekking Essentials

Trekking poles (foldable, lightweight)
Water bottles (2 × 1L)
Water purifier or purification tablets
Headlamp with extra batteries
Sunglasses (UV protection)
Sunscreen and lip balm
Small first-aid kit (include altitude sickness tablets)
Multi-tool or pocket knife
Personal items (toothbrush, camera, ID, etc.)

Sleeping Equipment

Sleeping bag (-10°C to -15°C recommended)
Sleeping bag liner (for extra warmth and hygiene)
Inflatable or foam sleeping pad

Estimated Costs

Permits

Restricted Area Permit (RAP): ~$500 for 10 days, ~$50 extra per additional day
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): ~$30

Guide & Porter

Guide: $30–$35 per day (includes food, lodging, insurance)
Porter: $25–$30 per day (includes food, lodging, insurance)

Accommodation & Food

Teahouse/Guesthouse: $10–$15 per night
Meals: $5–$10 per meal

Transportation

Kathmandu → Pokhara (flight or bus): $100–$150
Pokhara → Jomsom (flight): $120–$150
Jeep from Jomsom → Kagbeni: $10–$20

Estimated Total Cost

Budget Trek: $1,800–$2,200 per person
Standard Trek: $2,500–$3,000 per person
Luxury Trek: $3,500–$4,500 per person

Extra Tips

Guided Trek Required: Upper Mustang is a restricted area; you must hire a licensed guide.
Altitude: Take a day or two to adjust along the trek.
Insurance: Make sure your travel insurance covers high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation.
Water: Drink often and purify water before drinking.

Tips to Lower Trekking Costs

Travel in groups to share costs.
Take jeeps instead of flights.
Carry water purification tablets.
Book with a local agency for value packages.
Shorten the itinerary to save on permit days.

Suggested Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary

Colorful Upper Mustang

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)

Your Upper Mustang adventure begins in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, you can enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner while receiving a short briefing about the trek. Kathmandu’s vibrant streets, cultural sites, and warm hospitality set the tone for the journey ahead.

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparation

Today is dedicated to exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Valley, including Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square. In the afternoon, your trekking permits for Upper Mustang (a restricted area requiring a special permit) will be arranged. This day also allows you to shop for last-minute trekking essentials in Thamel.

Day 3: Drive/Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m)

You can either take a scenic 25-minute flight or a 6–7 hour drive along the Prithvi Highway to Pokhara, a lakeside city surrounded by the Annapurna range. In the evening, stroll around Phewa Lake and enjoy Pokhara’s lively atmosphere before beginning the trek.

Day 4: Fly to Jomsom (2,720m), Trek to Kagbeni (2,810m)

A thrilling early-morning flight takes you to Jomsom, the gateway to Mustang. The flight offers breathtaking views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks. From Jomsom, you start trekking along the Kali Gandaki River valley towards Kagbeni, a medieval village with Tibetan-style houses and narrow alleyways. This marks your first step into the restricted Upper Mustang region.

Day 5: Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m)

Today, you follow the Kali Gandaki River upstream, crossing sandy trails and passing caves carved into the cliffs. The landscapes turn barren and desert-like, resembling the Tibetan plateau. The trek continues through Tangbe village before reaching Chele, a small settlement with beautiful stone houses and apple orchards.

Day 6: Chele to Syanboche (3,475m)

This day involves steep climbs over passes such as Taklam La (3,624m) and Dajori La (3,735m). You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Nilgiri, Tilicho, and Damodar peaks. The trail descends to Samar, a picturesque village, and continues through groves of juniper trees and red canyons until you reach Syanboche.

Day 7: Syanboche to Ghami (3,520m)

The path today is adventurous with several ups and downs. After crossing Yamda La (3,850m) and Nyi La (4,010m), the highest point so far, you descend into Ghami, one of the largest villages in Upper Mustang. Ghami is known for its long Mani walls, whitewashed houses, and breathtaking landscapes.

Day 8: Ghami to Tsarang (3,560m)

A shorter day of trekking takes you across suspension bridges and dry terrain. You’ll see red cliffs and ancient chortens along the way. Tsarang is famous for its 5-story white Dzong (fortress) and a massive red monastery perched dramatically on the cliffs, showcasing Mustang’s unique Tibetan culture.

Day 9: Tsarang to Lo Manthang (3,840m)

The trail leads to Lo Manthang, the walled capital of the Kingdom of Mustang. Passing through arid landscapes and crossing the Lo La Pass (3,950m), you enter Lo Manthang, a historic city of mud-brick houses, monasteries, and palaces. Once the royal seat of Mustang’s kings, Lo Manthang is the cultural highlight of this trek.

Day 10: Explore Lo Manthang

A full day is reserved for exploring Lo Manthang. You can visit Thubchen Monastery, Chhoser Cave, Jampa Lhakhang, and the former King’s Palace. Optional hikes or horse rides to nearby valleys and caves reveal Mustang’s unique Buddhist traditions and mysterious landscapes.

Day 11: Lo Manthang to Drakmar (3,810m)

Leaving Lo Manthang, the trail passes through highland deserts and colorful cliffs. You trek past the oldest monastery in Mustang, Ghar Gompa, which is linked to Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava). The trail then descends into Drakmar, surrounded by red cliffs dotted with cave dwellings.

Day 12: Drakmar to Ghiling (3,570m)

Today’s trek is slightly longer, with trails that may get windy in the afternoon. You’ll pass through traditional villages, terraced fields, and barley farms. The night is spent in Ghiling, where you can witness local lifestyle and enjoy a quiet evening in this beautiful village.

Day 13: Ghiling to Chhuksang (3,050m)

The trail descends gradually as you leave the heart of Upper Mustang. Passing through ridges and valleys, you arrive in Chhuksang, where you’ll see the transition from the Tibetan plateau back to the Kali Gandaki region.

Day 14: Chhuksang to Jomsom (2,700m)

The final trekking day takes you back to Jomsom. The familiar Kali Gandaki gorge offers stunning views as you complete your Upper Mustang trekking loop. Jomsom offers comfortable lodges and a chance to celebrate the completion of your trek.

Day 15: Fly to Pokhara, Explore Pokhara

A morning flight takes you back to Pokhara. You can relax by Phewa Lake, enjoy boating, or visit Davis Falls and the Peace Pagoda. This is a perfect day to rest and reflect on the unforgettable Mustang journey.

Day 16: Drive/Fly Back to Kathmandu

Return to Kathmandu either by a short flight or scenic drive. In the evening, you may enjoy a farewell Nepali dinner with cultural performances.

Day 17: Departure from Kathmandu

Your journey ends with a transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. With memories of Mustang’s mystical landscapes, Tibetan culture, and ancient traditions, you’ll take home an experience of a lifetime.

Final Thoughts – Is the Upper Mustang Trek Worth the Cost?

Yes, absolutely. The Upper Mustang Trek is more expensive than other treks in Nepal, but it offers something that no other trekking region can: a journey back in time to a preserved Tibetan kingdom, breathtaking landscapes, and deep cultural immersion.

If you want to explore this magical region with expert guidance and fair pricing, Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd. is here to make it possible.

📧 Email: safeholidayadventure@gmail.com
📞 WhatsApp: +977 9849116284

Book your adventure today and discover why Upper Mustang is called the Hidden Kingdom of Nepal.

Related Treks You May Consider

Annapurna Circuit Trek – The most popular long-distance trek in Nepal.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – Best sunrise trek in Nepal.
Everest Base Camp Trek – Legendary trek to the world’s highest mountain.
Manaslu Circuit Trek – A remote, adventurous alternative.

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