A Travel Guide to Upper Mustang: Permit and Routes

A Travel Guide to Upper Mustang: Permit and Routes. Have you ever wished to explore a historical kingdom with vibrant festivals, secret caves, and Himalayan cliffs as the backdrop? The Upper Mustang travel guide can help make that dream come true. Traveling to Mustang is at an altitude of around 4000 meters.

The problem is that organizing a trip to Upper Mustang, Nepal, can be confusing. Upper Mustang trekking permits and hidden attractions are available, as are challenging Upper Mustang trekking routes. However, the most incredible experiences, such as the Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang or the attractions in Lo Manthang, could be lost if you’re unsure of what to do.

This is why we created this easy-to-use travel guide to Upper Mustang. We’ll cover everything from Upper Mustang travel advice to the best routes and permits, whether you’re traveling alone, with family, or with friends.

Are you ready? Let’s travel to Upper Mustang, Nepal, the hidden kingdom!

What Makes Upper Mustang So Special?

The Upper Mustang region is one of the world’s most unusual locations in Nepal. This region, called the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” is tucked away in the Annapurna range’s rain shadow. This Upper Mustang travel guide will teach you why this area is so enchanted.

Previously, Upper Mustang was a closed kingdom. Until 1992, foreigners were not allowed. Visitors still require special Upper Mustang trekking permits to visit its flawless beauty. Therefore, an Upper Mustang tour is similar to a journey through time.

Nepal’s Upper Mustang culture is strongly influenced by Tibetan culture (Tour). The traditionally dressed locals speak Tibetan dialects and celebrate the ancient Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang, which features old cave entrances carved into cliffs, prayer flags, and prayer wheels.

The rest of Nepal is very different from this region. Geographically, Upper Mustang is a dry region, characterized by desert hills and red canyons. Trekkers seeking peace, culture, and breathtaking landscapes will find it to be the ideal location.

Every corner of Upper Mustang, Nepal, from palace cities to cliff-edge caverns, has a story to tell. Understanding this location is the most crucial step in the entire Travel Guide to Upper Mustang.

Learn More About: Mustang of Nepal

Permit Requirements for Upper Mustang

If you’re planning to explore Upper Mustang, Nepal, getting your Upper Mustang trek permits is the first big step. Since Upper Mustang is restricted, you need more than just a simple trekking pass. In this Travel Guide to Upper Mustang, let’s break down the Upper Mustang trekking cost:

Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

• This is the most important one.
• The cost is USD 500 for 10 days and USD 50 for each additional day.
• You must travel with a registered guide and at least one other person.
• Solo trekking isn’t allowed in Upper Mustang, Nepal.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

• Required to enter the Annapurna region.
• It costs USD 30.

Good Upper Mustang travel tips include applying for your permits through a licensed agency. They’ll help with forms, passport photos, and the process.

You don’t need a TIMS card if you already have the RAP. Always carry a copy of your permits while trekking the Upper Mustang Trekking Routes.

Understanding permits is a must for any traveler reading this Travel Guide to Upper Mustang.

Trekking Routes in Upper Mustang

Trekking through Upper Mustang, Nepal, is like stepping into another world. The Upper Mustang Trekking Routes, whether off-road or on-road, are filled with dramatic cliffs, wind-blown valleys, and quiet villages that appear frozen in time. This Travel Guide to Upper Mustang covers the main routes that take you to the region’s heart.

Classic Route:

• Start in Jomsom, then trek through Kagbeni, Chhusang, and Ghami before reaching Lo Manthang.
• This route takes about 12 to 14 days.
• It includes most of Lo Manthang’s attractions and beautiful views of the Upper Mustang landscape.

Alternative: Jeep-Assisted Trek

• Some people prefer to drive part of the route and trek in short sections.
• This is a good choice if you’re short on time or want a more relaxed trip.

Boundless Adventure also provides an Upper Mustang Helicopter Tour for you.

Festival Route:

• Time your trek during the Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang in May.
• This cultural route adds excitement to the already stunning Upper Mustang Trekking Routes.

Regardless of the path, you will need the Upper Mustang trek permits we mentioned earlier. Each route offers its version of peace, culture, and breathtaking adventure. These Upper Mustang travel tips will help you choose the right path.

Recommended Read: Off-Road Guided Trekking in Upper Mustang

Top Attractions in Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang, Nepal, is full of incredible vistas and historic landmarks. This travel guide to the Upper Mustang section covers the top attractions that you must see.

Attractions in Lo Manthang

• The jewel in the crown is the walled city of Lo Manthang.
• Explore historic monasteries, including Thubchen Gompa and Jampa Gompa.
• Discover history everywhere you go as you meander through the tiny lanes.

Caves of Chhoser

• These caverns are set into high cliff faces.
• They served as residences and places for meditation.
• One of Upper Mustang’s most

Tsarang Monastery and Ghar Gompa

• Sacred monuments and ancient manuscripts abound in these monasteries.
• They represent the rich spiritual culture of Nepal’s Upper Mustang.

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival

• Lo Manthang’s three-day festival is full of color, dance, and spiritual significance.
• Every May, it draws tourists from all around the world.

These Upper Mustang attractions each highlight a distinct aspect of this enchanted region. Everything from spirituality to history can be found in Upper Mustang, one of Nepal’s distinctive attractions.

Best Time to Visit Upper Mustang

Trying to figure out when to visit the hidden kingdom? You’re in good hands with this Upper Mustang travel guide! Knowing when to visit Upper Mustang, Nepal, is crucial, as it can make the trip more enjoyable, comfortable, and filled with breathtaking vistas.

Spring (March to May):

Spring is your time of year if you enjoy warm weather, blossoming flowers, and sunny skies! The Upper Mustang Trekking Routes are dry and secure in the spring, making them ideal for tourists. The high point? Every May, Lo Manthang hosts the renowned Tiji Festival in the Upper Mustang region. It is vibrant, cultural, and lively. Upper Mustang, Nepal, comes to life in the spring.

Autumn (September to November): 

The busiest season for travel is autumn. Why? The vistas of the mountains will amaze you, the weather is steady, and the skies are clear. Autumn is ideal for exploring the top attractions in Lo Manthang and other breathtaking sights in Upper Mustang. Autumn is a winner if you’re all about stunning pictures and easy hiking.

June to August Monsoon:

Despite popular belief, rain won’t hamper your journey in Upper Mustang. This area receives very little rain because it is in a rain-shadow zone. Upper Mustang, Nepal, remains dry and dramatic, while the rest of Nepal gets rainfall. The journey becomes even more amazing as the scenery becomes even more vibrant.

Winter (December to February):

Due to the extreme cold and snowfall, winter is not for everyone.  Some guesthouses closed, and many residents moved to lower altitudes.  However, it can be the kind of trip you’re looking for if you like quiet and fewer tourists.  Just be sure you have everything ready!

Recommended Read: Exploring The Mustang Himalaya, Nepal

Accommodation and Facilities in Upper Mustang

You don’t have to sacrifice comfort for adventure in Upper Mustang, Nepal. This section of our Travel Guide to Upper Mustang explains what to expect in terms of lodging and dining options along the Upper Mustang Trekking Routes.

Lodges and Teahouses

• Most settlements feature teahouses with hot food, blankets, and mattresses.
• Although they aren’t luxurious, they are clean and comfortable.

Food Selections

• You will be served local dishes, including Tibetan bread, yak cheese, and dal bhat— a traditional dish consisting of rice, lentils, and vegetables.
• Some locations also serve Western cuisine, such as pancakes and pasta.

Toilets and Water

• It is essential to use boiled or purified water. Keep pills for purifying water with you.
• Basic restrooms are occasionally shared.

Electricity and Wi-Fi

• In certain villages, Wi-Fi and electricity are available, but not everywhere.
• Always have a power bank with you.

Good Upper Mustang travel tips include bringing snacks, backup chargers, and warm sleeping gear. Lodging in Upper Mustang, Nepal, is simple but adds to the charm.

Culture, Etiquette, and Responsible Travel

One of Nepal’s most outstanding features is its rich cultural heritage. This Upper Mustang travel guide explains how to appreciate the area’s natural beauty and culture while traveling responsibly and respectfully.

Clothes and Conduct

• Wear modest clothing.  When visiting monasteries, it is customary to cover one’s knees and shoulders.
• Smile and say “Namaste” to the natives; it makes a big impression!

Photography

• Before snapping pictures of people or places of worship, get permission.
• Flash and video are restricted at specific points of Lo Manthang’s attractions.

Environmental Protection

• Stay away from plastic. Don’t forget to bring reusable bottles.
• To preserve the land, use designated trails.

Encourages the Local Economy

• Eat at neighborhood teahouses and purchase handcrafted goods.
• Using local tour guides benefits the neighborhood.

Be an observer and learner at the Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang, an excellent illustration of cultural beauty. Following these travel recommendations can preserve the area’s charm for future tourists. 

Packing Essentials for Upper Mustang

Pack wisely if you want to get the most out of this Upper Mustang trip. The paths in Upper Mustang, Nepal, can be difficult, and the weather can change suddenly.

Clothes

• Clothes layered: raincoat, down jacket, fleece, and t-shirts.
• For the freezing nights, wear a thick cap and thermal underwear.

Equipment:

• Good hiking boots (they’re broken in!).
• Trekking poles are required for the steep Upper Mustang Trekking Routes.
• Sleeping bag with a -10°C or lower rating.

Altitude medication and a first aid kit.

• It’s hot up there, so be sure to wear sunscreen and lip balm.
• Extras: food, a water filter, a power bank, and a headlamp.

Use this Upper Mustang travel advice from the Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang to the historic Lo Manthang sites to be warm and safe. A little preparation makes a big difference! 

Recommended Read: Must-Have Gear for Manaslu Circuit Trek

Summing Up

From exploring the charm of Lo Manthang sights to taking in the Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang, Mustang Trek permits allow you to stroll along the picturesque Upper Mustang Trekking Routes.

Every traveler is in for a memorable experience, whether it is the serene scenery or the rich cultural heritage of Upper Mustang, Nepal. Pack carefully and follow this travel guide to Upper Mustang to explore one of Nepal’s most fascinating areas.

More than just a hike, your trip to Upper Mustang will leave you with lifelong memories. Contact Boundless Adventure now to customize your trip. 

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