Upper Mustang Trek – Cost And 17 Days Itinerary

Can We Do the Upper Mustang Trek During the Tiji Festival?

Yes, it is possible to do the Upper Mustang trek during Tiji time, which falls in the second week of May every year. This time is accompanied by a colorful Tiji festival celebrated in Lo Manthang. However, during the festival, it is rather busy with more tourists and local activities.

Exploring during the Tiji Festival is recommended to be done flexibly to maximize the trekking experience. Some changes may be required for the festivals to occur when you are within the regions to enable you to have the best experience of festivals without missing the trek. Thus, when planning your trek and choosing your trekking agency, it is possible to include the festival quickly.

How to get to Mustang Trek?

To reach the Upper Mustang trek, start your journey in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital. After arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport, you must travel to Pokhara. You can take a 25-minute flight or a 6-7 hour drive covering 200 km by ground transportation.

You will continue your journey from Pokhara to Jomsom, the gateway to Upper Mustang. During the dry season, you can do this via a direct morning flight or jeep.

Once in Jomsom, begin your trek towards Kagbeni, the starting point for exploring the Upper Mustang. You’ll pass through the villages of Chele, Syanbochen, Ghami, Tsarang, and Lo Manthang before returning through Drakmar, Ghilling, and Chhuksang to Jomsom.

Mustang Trekking via Jomsom and Kagbeni

Jomsom is a gateway to the Upper Mustang trekking and Muktinath temple, which takes a flight option from Pokhara. The Jomsom (2743 meters) is the snow-capped Himalayas surrounding the district center of Mustang, located along the sandy cliffs. Trekkers can use banking services along with ATM services.

The trail from Jomsom is flat on the bank of the widely spread Kali Gandaki River. Kagbeni is an ancient settlement of Tibetan Buddhist-influenced indigenous people. It is located at the juncture of the Rivers, and people go there on special occasions to take a holy bath as part of their religion. Hindu devotees believe their dead ancestors can go to heaven if they take a sacred bath.

Navigating the Upper Mustang Trailhead: Your Starting Point

The Mustang trailhead has been inaugurated as the main entrance to this stunning part of the world. Most of the trails start from Jomsom, a village that can be reached by a 25 minutes scenic flight from Pokhara. Alternatively, trekkers can reach Jomsom via an off-road jeep ride through Beni and Tatopani, though this takes longer. Once in Jomsom, the journey continues along the Kali Gandaki River towards Kagbeni, the official entry point into Upper Mustang. Since Mustang is in a high-altitude desert, proper acclimatization is crucial—spending a night in Kagbeni before ascending further helps adjust to the altitude. Before starting, make sure you are allowed to be there, have the necessary gear and remember to bring enough water, as some part of the trail will have limited facilities.

Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang Trek: Important Suggestions For Trekkers

Trekking to Lo Manthang in Mustang is a dream for many adventurers, but it’s not like your typical trekking routes in Nepal. Since Upper Mustang is a restricted area, there are specific rules and guidelines that trekkers must follow. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Trekking Without Good Footwear – A Big No

Runners and hikers who dare consider doing it in sandals or bare foot may be prohibited. The Upper Mustang trek consist of long walk on rocky, loose gravel and steep ridges. The wrong footwear can result in a myriad of the injuries, discomfort and blisters and because there is no sturdy hiking boots. Proper trekking shoes with good ankle support must be worn at all times to have a safe & enjoytful trek.

Trekking Without a Licensed Guide – Is It Possible?

No, you can’t. Upper Mustang is a restricted area, and the Nepal government requires all trekkers to have a licensed guide to get a permit. Even for experienced trekkers, the region is remote, with unpredictable weather and limited facilities. A guide ensures safety and helps you understand the rich culture along the way.

Independent Trekking – Can You Explore Mustang Alone?

If you want to trek solo, Lower Mustang is your best bet. Jomsom, Muktinath, and Marpha are open to independent trekkers. But for Upper Mustang, you need at least two people in your group to obtain permits. If you’re traveling alone, you can join a group or hire a guide to meet the permit requirement.

Trekking Without Proper Footwear – A Big No!

Trekking in sandals or even barefoot may be thought of by some adventurous spirits, but is extremely not recommended. Upper Mustang trek is a long trek to cross rocky trails, loose rocky stones and steep ridges. Without correct hiking shoes you obtain hurts, blisters, as well as nice pain. Always put on appropriate trekking shoes with high ankle support to avoid a safe walk.

Solo Trekkers – Is It Allowed?

Solo trekking is not allowed in Upper Mustang as the area is restricted. However, if true solo trek is of your interest, then you can trek to Lower Mustang including places like Muktinath, Kagbeni and Jomsom. If you are solo trekker and want to go to Upper Mustang then you can join a group or hire a guide to obtain permit.

Who Should Avoid Trekking in Mustang And Why? 

Not everyone is physically fit for this trek. The high-altitude terrain, long walking hours, and limited medical facilities make it unsuitable for certain individuals. You should avoid trekking in Mustang if you fall into any of these categories:

• Pregnant Women – The trek involves long days of walking at high altitude, which can be risky. Medical facilities are very basic in Mustang, so it’s best to avoid it during pregnancy.
• Individuals with Severe Back or Knee Problems – If you have a history of back injuries, knee surgeries, or joint pain, the uneven trails and steep ascents can cause serious strain.
• People with Drug or Alcohol Addiction – Trekking requires mental clarity and physical stamina. The remote location and altitude make it dangerous for anyone struggling with substance addiction.
• People Under Mental Health Treatment – The isolation, altitude, and physical exhaustion can be overwhelming for those dealing with severe anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions.
• Those with History of Open-Heart Surgery – Summit altitude puts a strain on the heart, and hence is risky for people with previous open-heart surgery or serious heart complications.

If you have any pre-existing medical condition, it is always recommend to consult with your doctor before trekking in Mustang.

Major Attractions of the Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang is one of the unmissable destinations of the Mustang region. The Upper Mustang has a unique mixture of cultural diversity and natural beauty. Thus, the region’s cultural and natural beauty attracts many tourists worldwide. Some of the major attractions of Upper Mustang are:

T-Sarang and Lo-Manthang

T-Sarang (Charang) is a Gallup sect people-dominated village with a 400-year-old monastery. Lo-Manthang is the capital of the Upper Mustang region. It is located at 3700 meters from sea level.

Lo-Manthang is populated by Tibetan Buddhist devotees and is a culturally rewarded destination. The ancient sandy caves and colorful monasteries (400-year-old monasteries) are the attractions of the trip. However, you need to pay the entrance fees separately).

Shortens and the prayer wheels offer the cultural delights in the stone-walled town. This hidden kingdom’s surroundings are located with seasonal crops like barley and buckwheat fields.

Tibetan Buddhist Culture

Upper Mustang was once part of Tibet, so it deeply connects with Tibetan Buddhist culture. The region’s unique Tibetan Buddhist culture and history provide a major attraction and attract many trekkers who want to learn more about the region’s culture. Being a restricted region, Upper Mustang keeps its cultural identity and attracts several tourists with its unique Tibetan Buddhist culture.

Shaligram (Fossils) in the Kali Gandaki River

Shaligram is a fossilized shell that is an iconic symbol of the god Visnu. Hindu devotees who believe in spirituality prefer to take this stone in their homes. It is collected from the Kali Gandaki River, the trail of the Upper Mustang Trekking, and the Muktinath temple.

Most Indian travelers prefer to roam around the Riverbank, searching for Shaligram stones along the way to Upper Mustang trekking and the Muktinath tour.

Tiji Festival

Tiji is the short form of the ‘Tempa Chhirim,’ which means ‘Prayer for World Peace’ in the Mustang people’s language. The festival falls during the second week of May. May is an ideal month for the spring season in Nepal. Due to failing at a favorable time, many travelers worldwide come to participate in the Tiji festival. The festival is celebrated at the Lo Mangtang village to symbolize the victory of good above evil. The festival is significant to Tibetan Buddhist culture and attracts several travelers worldwide.

Historical Caves

Many historical caves of the Upper Mustang are the region’s major attraction. The caves are famous for their design on the cliffs. Chosar Cave, Chussang Cave, Nuri Gompa Cave, and Yara Caves are the significant compelling caves of Upper Mustang that hold a particular cultural and historical importance to the region. Each historical cave has its importance; however, the Chosar cave holds great significance. And Nuri Gompa is at the side of the trip.

Typical local People

The typical local people of the Upper Mustang are referred to as the Mustangis or Lo Pa. Most of the people speak the Tibetan language as they are Tibetan-influenced. The majority of the people follow Buddhism. The warm hospitality of the Mustangis people adds to the attraction of trekking in Upper Mustang. The typical locals are friendly and ready to share their culture with trekkers.

Against the backdrop, the miraculous Himalayan peaks of Mt. Annapurna, Fishtail, and Dhaulagiri shine. With three giant Lakes, the city holds various caves, waterfalls, a river gorge, and cultural sites like peace pagodas and monasteries.

Pokhara offers a pleasant reminiscence of an outstanding holiday with activities like boating in the Phewa Lake, Paragliding, a Sarangkot sunrise tour, exploring David’s Fall, Mahendra Cave, and the Seti River gorge.

High Passes in the Mustang Trek – A True Himalayan Adventure!

The Upper Mustang Trek is a adventure trekking to one of the most inaccessible lands of Nepal. Trekking the route, travelers cross several high mountain passes, every single pass boasting spectacular views of the Himalayas and all the arid Mustang landscape. These are not only tough on you physically but also give you breathtaking views of towering mountain peaks, deep valleys and old villages.

Here’s a closer look at some of the key high passes along the Upper Mustang trek:

Bhena-La Pass (3,860m) – A Tranquil Viewpoint

Bhena-La Pass is at mild height at which you grasp the solitary stop with panoramic valley views and surrounding towering cliffs. The trail at this point is easy to gentle, and scenic, and great spot to enjoy the unique desert-like landscape of Mustang.

Yamda-La Pass (3,860m) – Panoramic Dry Hills & Rugged Beauty

This pass is vast expanse of landscape w ith views across Mustang’s rock &, (colorful) desert background. The earth-toned cliffs and boulders create a potion of a world that seems like it is something from another planet.

Shyangbouche-La Pass (3,850m) – A Photographer’s Paradise

This pass offers one of the best panoramic views of Mustang’s mixed land. Trekkers generally halt for taking pictures of the nice deep gorges, eroded cliffs and far distant peaks.

Nyi-La Pass (4,025m) – The Gateway to Upper Mustang

Located at 4,025 meters, Nyi-La Pass is one of the tallest and significant pass on the Upper Mustang trek. While climbing up, you will have a view on transforming from lower Mustang’s vegetation to dry & rough habitat of Upper Mustang. The panoramic views from the top include snow-capped peaks and the dry valleys of Mustang.

Ghami-La Pass (3,765m) – A Historic Route to Ghami

This pass ends to the ancient village Ghami, one of the oldest village at Upper Mustang. Down, you will travel past Mani walls (Tibetan prayer walls), Old Monasteries and the popular Red Cliffs of Ghami.

Sungda-La Pass (3,910m) – A Challenging But Rewarding Ascent

This pass offers a mix of steep ascents and open ridges, providing incredible views of the Kali Gandaki Valley and surrounding snow-covered peaks. Proper acclimatization is recommended before crossing Sungda-La, as its altitude can be demanding for trekkers.

Lolai-La Pass (3,950m) – Dramatic Cliffs & High-Altitude Terrain

Exotic red sandstone cliffs and deep canyons of the grades of Lolai-La Pass in scenic as well. The pass provides an excellent mix of adventure and breathtaking scenery, with Mustang’s characteristic desert landscape, going as far as can see.

Gyu-La Pass (4,077m) – The Highest Point of the Trek

Highest point of Upper Mustang trek Gyu-La Pass is 4,077m. Standing here with the trekkers is awarded with milestone curvaceous view of towering Himalayan ranges with Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Tukuche. This is a fittingly memorable base for anyone walking across the area.

What to Expect When Crossing These Passes?

• Stunning Himalayan views – Witness panoramic sights of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Mustang’s unique rock formations.
• Changing landscapes – Trek through dry valleys, high ridges, deep canyons, and ancient villages.
• Physical challenge – These passes require good fitness levels, slow and steady pacing, and proper acclimatization.
• Strong winds and dry conditions – Due to Mustang’s high-altitude desert climate, expect cold winds, dry air, and sudden weather changes.

Unique Landscapes and Scenery During Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang region is unlike all the others in Nepal. Known as the ‘Last Forbidden Kingdom’, this rugged and out-of-the-way place is a hidden gem with dramatic landscapes, traditional Tibetan culture and Namche Bazaar Himalayan views. As you travel across this magical place, you will see an extraordinary contrast of arid desert landscape to the rugged snow-capped mountains.

The scene of Upper Mustang is mainly composed of deep canyons, high mountain cliffs and rock formations worn out to colors of red, orange and brown. The area redesignated stable hills and upper heavy currents shift into Tibet, a peculiar and narrative tramping filename. The Kali Gandaki River Gorge one of the deepest gorge of the world which pass by these rugged landscapes alongwith lovely and dramatic views. The villages that can be found along the journey from Kagbeni, Ghami and Lo Manthang to name a few, are full of Tibetan culture and set in a totally stunning naturalistic environment.

The scenery of the Upper Mustang is unmatched in Nepal. With its arid landscape, vibrant rock formations, and rough, unearthly vibe, Upper Mustang resembles Tibet more than the verdant, lush routes of the Everest or Annapurna regions.

The Trans-Himalayan Landscape

The area receives extremely little rainfall because it is in the Himalayan rain shadow. This produces a landscape reminiscent of a desert with deep valleys, wind-eroded hills, and striking red cliffs. The majestic Himalayan ranges in the background frequently liken the landscape to the Grand Canyon. Trekkers will traverse historic trade routes and elevated plateaus and pass through aesthetically pleasing communities.

Panoramic Mountain Views

Despite the region’s dryness, the neighboring peaks are anything but dry. During the journey, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and other Himalayan giants. The contrast between the snow-capped mountains in the distance and the bleak, desert-like foreground is seldom seen elsewhere.

Ancient Cave Complexes

Thousands of man-made caverns carved into the cliff walls can also be seen in Upper Mustang. More than 2,000 years ago, some of these tunnels were used as dwellings, places of meditation, or even places of burial. Archaeologists have found old murals, artifacts, and even human bones, adding to the region’s mystery past. By exploring these caves, you can learn more about an ancient society that thrived in this remote area of the world.

Himalayan Scenery on the Upper Mustang Trek

Although Upper Mustang is known for its dry and desert like countries, the upper mustang is surrounded by some of the loosers Himalayan countries of Nepal. The trail comes under the Annapurna Conservation Area, Trekkers get advance view of Himalaya Range, Annapurna range with number of peak in over 8,000 metre.

Here are some of the famous Himalayan peaks visible during the trek:

• Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167m) – The seventh highest mountain of the world situated in west of Mustang with huge snow crowned walls.
• Annapurna I (8,091m) – the tenth highest mountain globally, placed in the Annapurna arrangement, offering impressive sightseers.
• Annapurna II, III, and IV – These peaks add to the majestic skyline, forming a continuous snowy ridge visible throughout the trek.
• Machhapuchhre (6,993m) – Also known as Fishtail Peak, this sacred and uniquely shaped mountain is one of Nepal’s most iconic summits.
• Annapurna South & Hiunchuli – These stunning peaks dominate the horizon and add to the trek’s scenic beauty.
• Nilgiri (North & South) – These mountains tower over the Kali Gandaki Valley and are visible along most of the route.
• Tukuche Peak (6,920m) – Placed at the border of Dhaulagiri series gives divine mountain spectacle.

Mustang’s arid landscapes and the majestic white peaks together give an unforgettable trekking experience. The sky is visible and the wide valleys of panorama views provide especially at sunrise and sunset, the mountains in the golden hue of the appearance. The Upper Mustang trek is not just about reaching Lo Manthang—it’s about experiencing the untouched beauty of Nepal’s unique landscapes and the grandeur of the Himalayas.

Monasteries, Caves & Temples in Upper Mustang – A Spiritual & Cultural Journey

Upper Mustang trek is far more than just a travel to the great beauty land it is a journey in the midst of Buddhism in the land of Tibet. This land is rich with centuries old monasteries, holy meditation caves, valuable Hindu temples, the trekkers here can feel the deep sense of history and tradition. The mix of Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism in Mustang gives it a special trekking destination.

Here’s a closer look at the monasteries, caves, and temples you’ll encounter on the trail:

Jomsom, Kagbeni & Muktinath – A Sacred Convergence of Faiths

These towns serve as important religious and cultural hubs in Mustang, where both Hinduism and Buddhism coexist peacefully.

• Jomsom is the gateway to Upper Mustang, known for its Tibetan-style monasteries and stunning mountain views.
• Kagbeni is a historic village with a famous Buddhist monastery that guards the entrance to Upper Mustang.
• Muktinath Temple (3,710m) is one of Nepal’s most sacred Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Hindu devotees worship Lord Vishnu here, while Buddhists associate it with Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), who is believed to have meditated in the area. The temple features 108 water spouts, where pilgrims take ritual baths, believing it cleanses their sins.

Chele Monastery – A Hidden Gem Along the Trail

Found in the Hamlet of Chele is tiny, yet history-rich monastary for Buddhist Monks come here for spiritual retreat. Tibetan Buddhist architectural style, prayer wheels and religious murals are voiced to be found in this place.

Chungsi Cave (Near Shyangbouche) – A Sacred Meditation Site

Chungsi Cave is said to be a sacred meditation cave that this meditation place Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated on during his journey in the years 8th into Tibet. The cave is situated on a steep hillside and can be accessed by a short branch from the main trekking path, but it is worth the visit. Inside you will discover prayer flags, cherished ancient statues and symbols of worship that turn that sacred place right away.

Ghiling & Ghami Monasteries – Rich in History & Tradition

• Ghiling Monastery is one of the oldest in Mustang, housing ancient scriptures, Buddhist murals, and prayer wheels.
• Ghami Monastery is another historic site, surrounded by the longest Mani wall in Nepal—a stunning 305-meter-long prayer wall with intricately carved Tibetan mantras. The monastery offers insight into the ancient Tibetan Buddhist practices still preserved in Mustang.

Tcharang & Lo Manthang Monasteries – The Spiritual Heart of Upper Mustang

These are some of the most significant and ancient Buddhist monasteries in Mustang, filled with centuries-old murals, scriptures, and sacred relics.

• Tcharang Monastery is located near the historic Tcharang Palace and is famous for its vibrant murals depicting Buddhist deities and teachings.
• Lo Manthang Monasteries include Thubchen, Jampa, and Chode Gompas, which are over 500 years old. These monasteries are still active and serve as important spiritual centers for the Mustang community.

Hidden Festivals in Mustang – Witness the Vibrant Tiji Festival

Mustang has several classic Tibetan Buddhist festivals and traditional Tiji Festival, the most famous is.

• Held in Lo Manthang, this three-day festival features masked dances, colorful rituals, and ancient storytelling performances that celebrate the victory of good over evil.
• Monks dressed in intricate costumes perform sacred dances, reenacting Buddhist legends.
• The festival is an essential spiritual occasion for the locals and a chance to indulge in an extremely rare cultural experience for visitors.

Why These Sites Make Upper Mustang Special?

• Deeply spiritual experience – Feel connected to Nepal’s rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage.
• Ancient history & architecture – Explore centuries-old monasteries, caves, and sacred relics.
• Cultural immersion – Witness unique festivals, Tibetan rituals, and prayer ceremonies.
• Spectacular locations – Monasteries and temples are set against stunning Himalayan backdrops, making every visit a breathtaking experience.

Mustang’s Forbidden Kingdom: A Cultural & Historical Trekking Experience

Upper Mustang is a mystery area that was off-limits to outsiders until 1992 and is known as Nepal’s Hidden Kingdom. Requiring a special permit, it remains one of Nepal’s most exclusive hiking destinations.

Culture Influenced by Tibet

Unlike other hiking routes in Nepal, Upper Mustang provides an in-depth look at Tibetan culture. Tibetan Buddhism is practiced by the Lobas, the inhabitants of Mustang, whose customs haven’t altered in generations.

The Lo Manthang Walled City

Lo Manthang, a walled city from the 15th century with whitewashed mud-brick homes, medieval monasteries, and a palace that remains a historic landmark, is the trek’s high point. Trekkers feel they are traveling through time in this city.

Festivals and Monasteries

• The Monasteries of Thubchen and Jampa: The more than 500-year-old monasteries of Thubchen and Jampa are home to prayer wheels, vibrant murals, and artifacts documenting Mustang’s religious past.
• Tiji celebration: A sight to behold, the Tiji celebration is a three-day Buddhist event held in May. Through masked dances, it tells the tale of good overcoming evil.

Ancient Cave Systems

The secret of Mustang’s sky caverns, some almost 2,000 years old, is just waiting to be discovered. These cliffside caverns were formerly utilized as dwellings, places of worship, and places to bury people. The old texts and wall murals in several caverns increase Mustang’s appeal.

Annapurna Conservation Area

At the beginning of the Upper Mustang Trekking, you take a scenic flight above the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) in northwest Nepal. The conservation area was established in 1986 and covered an area of 7629 sq. km.

ACAP has made it famous. It is rich in biodiversity and is home to 1,226 species of flowering plants, 105 mammals, 518 birds, 40 reptiles, and 23 amphibians. ACAP permits are necessary for Mustang Trek.

AMS in Mustang Trekking

Mountain Sickness (AMS) is acutely known as high altitude sickness. If possible, we should follow the following steps.

• Trek high, sleep low.
• Have warm meals.
• Drink clean water.
• Have energy bars.
• If you are still not feeling well, you must get lower soon. The cases are more severe than necessary, so you should go to the Hospital by helicopter as soon as possible.

Upper Mustang Trek Permit

There are two critical permits required for the Upper Mustang trek:

1) Annapurna Conservation Permit Area (ACAP) permit:

The Annapurna Conservation area covers 7,629 sq. km area. The Upper Mustang also falls within the border of the Annapurna Conservation area. So, obtaining the ACAP is mandatory for the upper Mustang trek. On your behalf, the company will manage your ACAP for the trek to Upper Mustang.

2) Upper Mustang restricted area permit (RAP)

The Upper Mustang is a restricted area of Nepal. So, trekking in the Upper Mustang requires a special RAP permit to enter the region. The upper Mustang is situated within reach of the Tibetan border. Therefore, the government of Nepal has declared the Upper Mustang a restricted area for security purposes and tourism management. The authorized trekking agency can only issue the RAP, so if you are with us, you needn’t worry about RAP.

Restricted Area in between Upper Mustang Trek

The restricted area of Upper Mustang begins and ends at the village of Kagbeni, situated at 2810m. Kagbeni lies in the Muktinath district, in the village of Baragubg Muktikshestra, a rural municipality. The village is the oldest in the region, in the valley of the Kali Gandaki River. Kagbeni is the central point of the Muktinath district as the village’s trail takes you to the Muktinath Temple, and another trail takes you to the upper Mustang, up to the capital, Lo Manthang.

You’ll be checked in at the Kagbeni checkpoint and checked out from the same checkpoint. It would be best to show your restricted permit at KagbenKagbeni’s point. As you enter Kagbeni, MustanMustang’s is a very mysterious area.

Group Size For Upper Mustang Trek

Solo trekking is not allowed for the Upper Mustang trek, and the minimum group size is two people. Trekking agencies can accommodate various group sizes, with some able to manage groups of up to 16 people at once due to limitations on the small aircraft used for travel between Pokhara and Jomsom. However, groups of up to 30 can be arranged, though the larger group size requires careful coordination to ensure all members can fly together. Solo travelers can join existing groups, which helps lower costs and enhances safety. For more details or to arrange your trek, contact WhatsApp at +977 9851033819.

Culture and Custom in Mustang

The Upper Mustang trek is famous for combining the gorgeous prospects of nature with spectacular historical sights. Trekking has a beautiful and enchanting face with the definitive cultural rite of the region, more so in terms of its art. The patrons of this typical Nepali architectural structure are the Gurung, Thakali, and Lopa ethnic groups of the region, primarily Buddhist by their faith. The significant attractions of tourism are local festivals like Tiji and Duk Chu, and monasteries, chortens, and caves are present in this area.

The older buildings are white-washed wooden houses with carved wooden ceilings and houses with flags inscribed with mantras of Buddhism, Jainism, Hinduism & other religions. People dress according to the style of Tibet to withstand the climate, where women wear numerous layers of warmers and have very rich ornamentation, men wear thick, multicolored tunics, and everybody has turquoise on their neck and wrists. Males usually wear long Chubas gowns, while females cover their bodies in layered dresses and aprons for warmth. Tourism is embraced because people are encouraged to interact with the native culture and maybe even gain knowledge.

Weather and temperature in Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang is dry because it is in the rain shadow of the Himalayas. Due to its location in the rain shadow, the Upper Mustang trek can be done even during the monsoon season. The region’s average temperature every season is 11°C, and rainfall occurs 307 mm annually.

Weather and Temperature during Spring

Spring is one of the finest seasons in Nepal, including at the Upper Mustang. The weather is pleasant, neither too hot nor too cold. The sky and mountain views are clear at this time of the year. The temperature ranges from 14°C to 22°C during the day and drops from -6 °C to 1 °C at night.

Weather and Temperature during Summer

Even though summer is a monsoon season in Nepal, the upper Mustang is set in the rain shadow, so trekking in the upper Mustang during summer is also the best time. The weather in Summer at the upper Mustang is warmer, and the region is dry during this time. The daytime temperature at the Upper Mustang during the summer is 19-29 °C, whereas at night, the temperature ranges from -3°C to 0°C.

Weather and Temperature during Autumn

Autumn is the well-liked season for Upper Mustang trekking. Moderate temperatures and clear weather make the trekking conditions pleasant in Autumn. With clear skies, magnificent mountain peaks are visible during Autumn. The temperature ranges from 11°C to 20°C during the daytime at Upper Mustang, and at night, it ranges from -7°C to -3°C.

Weather and Temperature during Winter

Winter is generally the unfavorable time to trek on the Upper Mustang. Due to the harsh weather conditions, the region is inactive in the winter. Some locals even descend to lower regions to avoid extreme cold. As the day goes on, the weather slowly freezes, and snowfall occurs. The temperature is 0-4°C in Autumn and -25°C to -20°C at night.

Best Time for Upper Mustang Trekking

Trekking in the Upper Mustang is possible all over the year. However, some seasons involve busy trekking conditions, and some involve pleasant trekking conditions. Among the four seasons and twelve months faced by the Upper Mustang, the Summer season from June to August is the ideal season for trekking in the Upper Mustang.

Most trekking destinations have ideal trekking seasons in Spring and Autumn, but Upper Mustang is different. Although trekking during Autumn and Spring is also a favorable time for Upper Mustang, summer is the most desired season. While every area of Nepal experiences the monsoon, Upper Mustang has warm and pleasant summer weather. June and July are the best months for the Upper Mustang trek. During summer, you can witness the second big festival, Yarlung Mela, making your trekking journey more memorable.

Note: if you want to witness the Tiji festival, consider trekking during Spring(March-May).

Trekking Guide For Upper Mustang Trek

Hiring a guide for trekking in a restricted area is mandatory, so you must hire a guide for Upper Mustang, listed in Annapurna Conservation. While hiring a guide is necessary, choosing an experienced and licensed guide to provide the required information is equally important. You don’t have to worry about what kind of guide you should hire, as we provide a guide who has spent more than half a life in the guiding field.

We assure you that with our guide, you can trek in the upper Mustang without any worries. Our guide has a deep knowledge of the culture, history, and geography of the Mustang and can provide you with all the information. Our guides are licensed and certified with the required training.

We have a guide who can speak fluent English and your desired language for communication. We have provided our trek with all the necessary first aid training and knowledge of handling emergency cases. Specifically, each quality you need in a well-experienced guide is in our guide.

Training Plan for Upper Mustang Trek

While the Upper Mustang trek is moderately complex, proper preparation can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s how you can train effectively for this adventure:

Cardio Exercise

Engaging in cardiovascular workouts helps improve your stamina and endurance, which is essential for trekking in high-altitude regions. Aim for:

• The development of strength coupled with distorted terrain knowledge occurs through weekly hikes of three to five days.
• You should run or cycle to acquire better aerobic capacity and improve overall endurance.

Strength Training

The lower body, together with core strength, needs development because it helps tackle challenging trekking paths, steep slopes, and descending terrains. Focus on:

• Leg workouts like lunges, squats, and step-ups to improve stability and endurance.
• Core strengthening with planks, sit-ups, and crunches for better balance and posture on the trail.

Tips for Acclimatization

People visiting Upper Mustang must acclimate slowly because this area holds a high elevation that produces the risk of altitude sickness. Follow these tips:

• Take it slow and allow your body time to adjust. Walk at a steady pace and avoid overexertion.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the trek.
• Plan an extra acclimatization day in Lo Manthang to help your body adjust to the higher elevation.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking at high altitudes, as they can lead to dehydration and worsen altitude sickness.

Follow these guidelines to prepare before facing the stunning natural views and the cultural highlights of the Upper Mustang trek with complete self-assurance.

Inquiry and Booking

Boundless Adventure provides a trekking package for the Upper Mustang trek and a group discount. As the Upper Mustang trek can be undertaken throughout the year, it is recommended that you pre-book. If you want extra information regarding the trek, you can get an inquiry by messaging us on WhatsApp at +977 9851033819.

You can book the trip online with us. You can book this trip on the right side by opening our website. You can easily book the Upper Mustang trekking package by clicking that option. When booking, you need to pay 20% advance of the total cost, and the remaining balance can be paid once you arrive in Nepal and before the trek.