The upper Mustang is a hidden kingdom located behind the great Himalayan rain shadow in the northern part of Nepal. This remote and mystical area of Nepal sees very few travellers who come to explore this wonderful place. The upper mustang is referred to as the Last Forbidden Kingdom, and it shares its culture, architecture, and many aspects of daily life with the country of Tibet, providing travellers with an experience of a culture that is very different to their own. For adventurers, culture enthusiasts or history buffs, trekking in the Upper Mustang is going to be an experience you will carry with you forever.
Unlike the crowded trails of the ABC trek or the famous treks to the Everest base camp, the Upper Mustang remains completely off the beaten path. From the vast desert valleys with their ancient cave monasteries to the unique mud-brick villages, the Upper Mustang trek is among the most incredible Himalayan trekking experiences available today.
Tibetan monastery nestled among eroded cliffs in Upper Mustang
In this blog, you will discover everything you need to know about the Upper Mustang, the hidden kingdom of Nepal— including where it is located, why it carries the title of a hidden kingdom, the day-by-day itinerary, permit requirements, trek cost, difficulty level, best travel season, and essential tips to make your journey unforgettable.
Where is Upper Mustang the hidden kingdom of Nepal, located?
Geography and Landscape of Upper Mustang
The Upper Mustang area of the Mustang District in Nepal is situated at an altitude between 2750m (Kagbeni) and 3840m (Lo Manthang), adjacent to the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China. Due to its position within the dry zone created by the rain shadow of both the Annapurna and the Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, this region does not receive much rainfall during the monsoon season. As a result, this area is heavily eroded and has deep gorges and wind-blown formations throughout its entire landscape.
Because of the extreme aridity, Upper Mustang has a much more barren appearance than other parts of Nepal that have lush valleys. The numerous red, brown and ochre brown rock formations give the area the visual appearance of both the American Southwest and the Tibetan Plateau compared to the green hills found throughout South Asia.
The Cultural Connection with Tibet
Upper Mustang, previously known as the Kingdom of Lo, once existed as an independent kingdom. Tibetan Buddhism is embedded within its culture, religion and language. Nowadays, the Loba people of Upper Mustang continue to speak dialects of Tibet, uphold traditional Tibetan customs, and conduct age-old practices in regard to their faith, which have been designated “living practices” that no longer exist in Tibet but have been adversely affected through modernisation. Trekking through Upper Mustang can provide not only the adventure of a physical trek, but also an incredible opportunity to experience the cultural and spiritual heritage of this area.
Why is Upper Mustang called the Hidden Kingdom of Nepal?
Terraced fields and a village perched on the canyon edge with a mountain backdrop
There are several reasons why Upper Mustang has earned the name of being the Hidden Kingdom of Nepal. Up until 1992, the area was closed off from foreign tourists, making it one of the last areas of the Himalayas with restrictions on visitor access. The ancient kingdom of Lo had its own King (Raja of Mustang) and was also politically and geographically isolated from the rest of Nepal and the world for many decades.
Even after the area opened, the Nepali government has imposed strict limitations on the number of visitors. In order to trek as a foreign tourist in the region, you must first obtain what is called an Upper Mustang restricted area permit. The cost of this permit is USD 500 per person for the first ten days.
This restriction on visas has intentionally limited the number of tourists travelling to Upper Mustang to help preserve the region’s unique cultural heritage. With the combination of geographic isolation, a lack of political history, and intentional restrictions on visitors, Upper Mustang is truly a hidden kingdom and reveals its mystery only to those who are willing to make an extra effort to get there.
Himalaya have some of the most impressive holy places in the world, including major landmarks on your Upper Mustang Trek route. The cave-dwelling Sky Caves of Mustang, found set into sheer rock at the top of the Himalayas, are among the most startling archaeological discoveries ever made in Nepal. That’s right; they were created as dwellings by cliff dwellers from centuries past! You can also see numerous monasteries, some dating back more than 600 years, such as Thubchen Gompa and Jampa Lhakhang, in the majestic town of Lo Manthang; many contain priceless Buddhist murals and thangka paintings.
Unique Desert Landscape of the Himalayas
Upper Mustang provides an alternative to the standard trekking experiences throughout the Himalaya on routes such as the Langtang Valley Trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek, with its desert-like environment. Trekking through narrow, wind-swept gorges, eroded badlands, and high passes that afford panoramic views of the Nilgiri and Annapurna peaks creates a unique experience off the beaten path. The beauty of the landscape is humbling and awe-inspiring.
Traditional Tibetan Culture
The villages of Upper Mustang give the impression that they are like active museums. When you visit each village, you will see by what people wear as traditional chubas (Tibetan-style robes) that they live an ancient festival (Tiji) style of life. The way they live has not changed much from hundreds of years ago. Staying in a local teahouse and experiencing the hospitality of the Loba people offers a personal connection to your trek.
The standard Upper Mustang Trek itinerary spans approximately 14 to 16 days from Pokhara and covers a round trip from Jomsom to Lo Manthang and back. Below is a typical overview:
Day
Route
Elevation
Day 1
Fly Pokhara → Jomsom, trek to Kagbeni
2,810 m
Day 2
Kagbeni → Chele
3,050 m
Day 3
Chele → Syangboche
3,800 m
Day 4
Syangboche → Ghami
3,520 m
Day 5
Ghami → Tsarang
3,640 m
Day 6
Tsarang → Lo Manthang
3,840 m
Day 7-8
Explore Lo Manthang & surroundings
3,840 m
Day 9
Lo Manthang → Drakmar
3,810 m
Day 10
Drakmar → Tangbe (via Ghami)
3,080 m
Day 11
Tangbe → Jomsom
2,720 m
Day 12
Fly Jomsom → Pokhara
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Upper Mustang Trek Permit Requirements
Restricted Area Permit
The Upper Mustang restricted area permit is the most important piece of documentation for this trek! The Nepali government issues this special permit for USD 500 per person for the first 10 days and USD 50 per day thereafter. The permit must be obtained through a government-registered trekking agency – there is no independent trekking with or without a guide in this restricted area.
ACAP Permit for Trekking
In addition to the restricted area permit, trekkers also need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 23) per person. A valid TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card may also be required,d depending on the season and current regulations.
Upper Mustang Trek Cost Breakdown
Understanding the Upper Mustang Trek cost helps you plan your budget effectively. Here is a general breakdown:
Restricted Area Permit: USD 500 for 10 days
ACAP Permit: approx. USD 23
Kathmandu–Pokhara flight or bus: USD 70–150
Pokhara–Jomsom round-trip flight: USD 250–300
Teahouse accommodation (per night): USD 8–20
Meals per day: USD 15–25
Licensed trekking guide fee: USD 25–35/day
Porter fee: USD 18–25/day
Total estimated cost: USD 2,000–3,500 (all inclusive)
Costs vary depending on your group size, duration of stay, and the services you book through your trekking agency.
Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek
White horse grazing on green grass against dramatic red rock formations
Trekking in Upper Mustang is great because it’s accessible all year long; due to the Himalayan rain shadow, it doesn’t get much rain compared to other treks, like EBC (Everest Base Camp), and hence it remains dry throughout the monsoon season (June – Aug).
The best seasons are:
March to May (Spring): Mild temperatures, clear skies, and blooming rhododendrons in lower valleys. The Tiji Festival takes place in May, making this the most vibrant time to visit.
June to August (Monsoon): Unlike elsewhere in Nepal, Upper Mustang stays dry. A great off-season window.
September to November (Autumn): Post-monsoon clarity with stunning mountain views and comfortable walking temperatures.
December to February (Winter): Very cold, especially at night, but possible for well-equipped trekkers. Some teahouses may close.
Upper Mustang Trek Difficulty Level
The Upper Mustang Trek difficulty is rated as moderate. The terrain is mostly dry and relatively stable compared to rainforest trails. Daily walking distances range from 12 to 22 km on well-worn paths. The highest point of the trek is Lo Manthang at 3,840 metres — well below the altitudes reached on high-altitude treks like the Manaslu Circuit Trek or the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. However, strong winds, cold nights, and the occasional steep ascent make it essential to maintain a good fitness level and acclimatise properly.
How to Reach Upper Mustang
Travel Route via Pokhara
The trek to Upper Mustang starts in Pokhara, also referred to as the adventure capital of Nepal. From Pokhara, you can either fly from Pokhara to Jomsom Airport (a scenic flight of 20 to 25 minutes) or drive from Pokhara to Beni, then trek or take a jeep to Jomsom, which can take 1 to 2 days.
Gateway Town: Jomsom
The Mustang District has its administrative centre at Jomsom and provides access to Upper Mustang. The start of the trek into Upper Mustang commences at Jomsom, with a walk north to Kagbeni, which is the last village before entering the restricted area. Trekkers entering this area will need to present their permits at Kagbeni as they transition into the hidden kingdom.
Explore Lo Manthang: The Ancient Capital
Woman and child crossing rocky riverbed below towering red cliffs
The conclusion of any conversation about the Lo Manthang trek would not be complete without mentioning the final stop, Lo Manthang (the old capital of the Kingdom of Lo). This gorgeous medieval city rises on a plateau like a castle right out of a fantasy story. The city is enclosed by walls made of mud, and it contains a labyrinth of whitewashed homes, narrow streets, and ancient temples.
There are many things to see in Lo Manthang, such as the four-story palace of the king of Lo, the monasteries of Thubchen Gompa and Jampa Lhakhang, the Namgyal Gompa seated high on a hill above town, and multiple systems of sky caves located within the surrounding cliff walls. You can take your time and explore the beautiful Himalayan heritage of Lo Manthang during a 2-3 day visit.
Culture and Lifestyle in Upper Mustang
The Loba community in Upper Mustang has maintained their traditional lifestyle, now very similar to pre-modern Tibetan society. One traditional custom that is no longer practised on a large scale but was common during pre-colonial times is polyandrous marriages (multiple brothers married to the same woman). Agriculture in Mustang is primarily based on growing barley, buckwheat and apples (the famous Mustang apple), which are grown throughout Nepal. Various festivals take place throughout the year in Mustang, including Tiji (also known as Tenchi), Yartung (the horse festival) and Lhosar (the New Year of Tibet). Trekkers who time their trip to coincide with these festivals will witness some amazing culture.
Upper Mustang Jeep Tour vs Trekking
A growing number of travellers are taking the Upper Mustang trek by jeep as opposed to hiking the route. The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour uses 4-wheel drive vehicles and takes between five and seven days. This type of trip may work better for families, older travellers and those on a short schedule.
The experience of trekking provides a much richer and deeper experience than jeep-tour-based travel. While trekking, you will have the time to enjoy how beautiful the mountains are, and even have the opportunity to spend some time with the locals and experience the smaller villages that the jeep tours generally do not visit. If you enjoy trekking in Nepal and would like a real wilderness experience, consider trekking the route.
Accommodation and Food During the Trek
Over the last 10 years, the tea house and guesthouse culture in Upper Mustang has improved dramatically. Most of the villages along this path (including Chele, Ghami, Tsarang, and Lo Manthang) now have decent guesthouses that offer basic but clean accommodations, with some having en suite bathrooms. The food menu will include traditional Nepali dal bhat, noodles and pasta, fried rice, soup, and the regional specialities; Mustang apple pie and Mustang apple brandy are delicious! You must try both after walking for a long day.
Important Trekking Tips for Upper Mustang
Always hire a licensed guide — solo trekking is prohibited in the restricted area.
Carry sufficient cash, as ATMs are not available beyond Jomsom.
Pack layers: temperatures swing dramatically between day and night.
Bring a good quality down jacket, UV-protection sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Stay well hydrated and ascend slowly to avoid altitude sickness.
Carry a water purification tablet or filter to reduce plastic waste.
Respect local customs: always walk clockwise around mani walls and monasteries.
Responsible Tourism and Cultural Respect
Winding mountain road cutting through a vast eroded canyon with snow-capped peaks
Because Upper Mustang has fragile ecosystems and living cultural heritage, every trekker needs to actively minimise their impact on the area. Do not buy ancient artefacts, do not disturb or interrupt religious ceremonies without permission, and ask before taking pictures of residents. Trekkers should support local teahouses and local guides rather than large commercial tour operators so that the tourism dollars benefit the Loba communities. Sustainable trekking will help keep the unique beauty of the protected areas in Nepal for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Upper Mustang Trek
Do I need a special permit for Upper Mustang?
The Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (USD 500 for 10 days) is required for you to obtain, in addition to the ACAP permit, through a registered trekking agency.
Is it possible to trek Upper Mustang independently?
As independent trekkers cannot trek alone in the restricted areas of Upper Mustang, you will need to hire a licensed guide/porter from a registered trekking company in Nepal.
Is the Upper Mustang trekking route appropriate for beginner trekkers?
The level of difficulty of the trek is moderate; however, physically fit novice trekkers who go through appropriate acclimatisation and have a competent guide will be able to complete the trek successfully.
What is the duration of the Upper Mustang Trek?
The total duration of the Upper Mustang trek from Jomsom is 10 to 14 days (not including the time needed to travel between Kathmandu or Pokhara and get to Jomsom); hence, you should budget for 14 to 16 days for the whole trip.
What are the best months to travel to Upper Mustang?
The best months to travel to Upper Mustang are during the spring (March – May) and fall (September – November), but due to the rain shadow effect, the monsoon months (June – August) can also be a good time for trekking in Upper Mustang.
Conclusion: Why You Should Explore Upper Mustang
Nepal’s Upper Mustang, the hidden kingdom of Nepal, is unlike any other place on earth. It’s a beautiful land with stunning views of the Himalayas, desert -like scenery, ancient monasteries and the living culture of Tibetans; all combined into one incredible experience. You may want to visit for the amazing Lo Manthang trek, to see the intriguing sky caves, to take advantage of the great hospitality from the people of Loba, or just for the excitement of entering a once restricted kingdom.
Whatever it is that brings you here, you will find that Upper Mustang is beyond what you could have expected or imagined! With the proper permits, a knowledgeable guide and a sense of adventure, this is one trek that should be on every serious traveller’s list of things to do. To plan your Nepal trek, contact us at Family Adventure Treks and Expedition now so that our professional staff can help you create the perfect trip.
