Accommodation during Upper Mustang Trek
- In kathmandu and pokhara we provide comfortable accommodation in 3-star hotels with breakfast on a twin-sharing basis.(Private room accommodation can be arrange at an extra cost)
- During the trek, we provide comfortable teahouse accommodation on a twin-sharing basis. Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging are available at an additional cost
Meals and Drinking water on Upper Mustang Trek
On the Upper Mustang Trek, you’ll enjoy three wholesome meals daily,breakfast, lunch, and dinner served at cozy local teahouses along the trail. Expect fresh, locally sourced dishes like hearty dal bhat, Tibetan bread, momos, noodles, fried rice, soups, pasta, pancakes, and eggs. These simple yet nourishing meals keep you energized for the high-altitude adventure through Mustang’s rugged landscapes.
Staying hydrated is crucial in the dry, desert-like terrain. While bottled water is available at teahouses, we recommend bringing a reusable bottle to reduce plastic waste. Your Aarohi Holiday guide will provide water purification tablets or drops, ensuring safe drinking water throughout the trek. With proper nutrition and hydration, you’ll feel ready to embrace the ancient culture and stunning vistas of the Kingdom of Mustang, making your journey both comfortable and unforgettable.
Required Permits for the The Upper Mustang Trek
For the Upper Mustang Trek, you’ll need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for the Mustang region. No stress—Aarohi Holiday has you covered! All permit fees are included in your booking, and we’ll take care of the paperwork, so you can focus on exploring the mystical Kingdom of Mustang hassle-free.
- The special trekking permit costs USD 500 per person for the first 10 days, with an additional USD 50 per person for each extra day.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $ 30 per person.
Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek
Autumn, from September to November, brings crisp air, stable weather, and moderate temperatures, perfect for the Upper Mustang Trek. Clear skies offer stunning, unobstructed views of the dramatic desert landscapes and ancient monasteries. Dry trails ensure safe passage from Jomsom to Lo Manthang, while vibrant festivals like Tiji add cultural richness. Comfortable guesthouse stays make exploring Mustang’s unique heritage a joy.
The Upper Mustang Trek stands out due to its Trans-Himalayan location in a rain-shadow zone, receiving minimal rainfall even during the monsoon (June to August). Unlike other Nepali trekking routes soaked by heavy rains, Mustang stays mostly dry, with only occasional light showers. Spring (March to May) is also ideal, with mild weather and blooming landscapes. However, winter (December to February) is not recommended due to harsh cold and limited teahouse availability in higher elevations.
Upper Mustang Trek Difficulty
The Upper Mustang Trek with Aarohi Holiday is considered a moderately challenging adventure into the hidden kingdom of Mustang. This journey spans 17 days, covering high-altitude and arid landscapes, with trekking days averaging 4–6 hours and reaching a maximum elevation of 3,930m. The trek requires good physical fitness and proper acclimatization to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. You will navigate through rugged trails, dry valleys, and remote villages, making the journey adventurous yet highly rewarding. Weather in the region can be unpredictable and often windy at higher elevations, so being well-prepared is essential for a successful trek.
Altitude Sickness and Prevention on the Upper Mustang Trek
The Upper Mustang Trek reaches a maximum altitude of 3,930m, which brings the possibility of altitude sickness due to reduced oxygen levels. While considered a moderate trek, symptoms such as headaches, nausea, or dizziness may occur if proper acclimatization is not followed. Risks typically become noticeable after Kagbeni, as the trail gradually ascends above 3,000m.
To minimize these risks, our itinerary is designed with a steady pace and adequate rest days to allow your body to adjust. Drinking at least 4 liters of water daily, maintaining a balanced diet, and avoiding alcohol are strongly recommended. Should you feel unwell, the best approach is to take rest or descend with the guidance of our experienced team. With proper precautions, most trekkers can complete the journey safely while enjoying the unique landscapes and cultural richness of Mustang.
Travel Insurance for Upper Mustang Trek
Travel insurance is always essential for the high-altitude terrain of the Upper Mustang Trek. It helps cover costs in case of emergencies, such as medical treatment or helicopter evacuation. Make sure your policy includes coverage for high-altitude trekking, as medical expenses in remote areas can be very high.
To avoid unexpected costs, we strongly recommend arranging travel insurance from your home country, as local options may not always be reliable or cover everything needed. Always check the policy details carefully before your trek to ensure you are fully protected.
Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary
The Upper Mustang Trek begins in Kathmandu, where you’ll explore cultural and historical landmarks before traveling to Pokhara, Nepal’s picturesque lake city. From Pokhara, a short scenic flight takes you to Jomsom, the starting point of your trek. The journey begins with a walk to Kagbeni, the gateway to the restricted Upper Mustang region.
From Kagbeni, the trail follows the Kali Gandaki River through arid valleys, ancient caves, and traditional Tibetan-influenced villages. You’ll pass through settlements like Chele, Syangbochen, and Charang, each offering unique cultural and spiritual insights. The highlight of the trek is reaching Lo-Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Mustang, where you’ll have time to explore monasteries, royal palaces, and centuries-old traditions.
On the return journey, you’ll trek back through Drakmar, Ghiling, and Chhuksang, enjoying different scenic landscapes before arriving in Jomsom. A flight back to Pokhara and a drive to Kathmandu concludes this extraordinary adventure. This itinerary perfectly balances adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, making it one of Nepal’s most unique and unforgettable trekking experiences.
Upper Mustang Trek Cost
The cost of the Upper Mustang Trek varies depending on the season, group size, and service preferences. Our 17-day trek is priced at USD 1,750 per person, which includes all essential services from arrival in Kathmandu to the completion of the trek. This package ensures a safe, comfortable, and well-organized experience while exploring the unique landscapes and culture of Upper Mustang.
This price is based on a minimum of two person. For group bookings, we offer attractive discounts ranging from 5% to 10%, and the group leader can join the trek free of cost. With transparent pricing and no hidden fees, Aarohi Holiday provides excellent value for an unforgettable journey to the hidden kingdom of Mustang.
Important Notes for Upper Mustang Trek
- This itinerary includes round-trip flights Pokhar to Jomsom
- During certain seasons, when weather conditions are not favorable, flights to Mustang from Pokhara may not operate. In such cases, you can enjoy a scenic drive from Pokhara to Mustang, which takes around 8 hours.
- Porters can carry up to 20kg, but we recommend packing under 10kg since we provide one porter per two trekkers. A duffle bag for your gear will be provided.
- There are no ATMs on the Upper Mustang Trek , so carry enough cash from the city before starting your trek.
- Meals are included throughout the trek, while services like hot showers and device charging at teahouses or lodges are available for an additional fee.
- Meals and entry fees for sightseeing in Kathmandu are not included in the trek package.
- Drones require hard-to-get permits, so it’s best not to bring.
Fitness Preparation for the Trek
The Upper Mustang Trek is a moderate to high-altitude journey that requires a good level of physical fitness. While it does not reach extremely high altitudes like Everest, the trek involves long walking days through rugged and arid terrain, which can be physically demanding. Regular walking, hiking on uneven trails, and cardio exercises such as jogging, cycling, or swimming will help build the stamina needed for this adventure.
With proper preparation and the guidance of our experienced local team, most healthy trekkers can complete the Upper Mustang Trek successfully while fully enjoying the unique landscapes, remote villages, and rich cultural experiences along the way.
A Typical Day on the Trail
A typical day on the Upper Mustang Trek involves 5 to 7 hours of trekking through arid valleys, rugged trails, and remote villages. The day begins with a hearty breakfast, followed by a journey through unique landscapes featuring desert-like cliffs, ancient caves, and traditional Tibetan-style settlements. The trail gradually ascends as you move deeper into the hidden kingdom, offering stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and Mustang’s dramatic terrain.
Along the way, you’ll take rest breaks and enjoy lunch in local teahouses or picnic spots. Evenings are spent in cozy lodges, allowing you to relax, enjoy local cuisine, and prepare for the next day’s trek. The combination of cultural immersion and breathtaking scenery makes each day on this trail both adventurous and rewarding.
Arrival Instruction
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our company representatives are stationed to welcome you to the country. We request you to carefully look for your name being held by our representatives following the events upon landing. The representatives are responsible to escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. You will see men offering you to carry luggage and take you to your destination as you exit the airport. We request you pay no attention to these people and follow the designated representatives and follow their instructions. You will also need to keep an eye on your luggage and belongings to avoid any complications.
Nepal Visa Entry Procedure
For entry into Nepal, there are visa requirements everyone (except Indian nationals) must complete before being allowed to pass through immigration. This is for air travel as well as overland transportation. Most visitors may obtain a visa to enter Nepal, however, there are exceptions. Three options are available for entry
- 15-day single entry: US $30
- 30-day single entry: US $50
- 90-day multiple entries: US $125
Please have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the time of entry, and have cash ready, preferably in US dollars, though there are other currencies Nepal Immigration accepts. If you are entering via overland, you must have US cash and 3 passport photos. For arrival by air, the kiosks at the airport take your picture for you.For the most up to date list of exceptions for visa on arrival or to obtain the most current visa information, visit the Nepal Department of Immigration website.
