Discovering the Hidden Kingdom of Upper Mustang
Embarking on the trek to Upper Mustang is like stepping into a world untouched by time. Situated in the northern part of Nepal, this remote region was once part of the ancient Lo Kingdom and is considered the “Forbidden Kingdom”. For many years, this place remained closed to foreigners until 1992. Because of that, it has managed to preserve the unique Tibetan culture along with its impressive, unspoiled natural beauty that continues to be explored.
If you want an adventure with stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and friendly locals away from the crowds, Upper Mustang is a great choice for you. This guide covers everything you need to know about trekking in Upper Mustang, helping you prepare, getting permits, picking routes, and finding out the ideal season to visit. Plus, it offers practical advice on packing, accommodation options, and meals to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
Now, let’s begin our adventure and explore this captivating Himalayan region carefully, step by step, uncovering all its wonders along the way.
Why Trek to Upper Mustang?
Trekking to Upper Mustang is a journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich places. Located in the rain shadow of the Annapurna range, its dry, rugged landscapes look very different from the usual green scenery in the Himalayas. Rather than the usual green mountains, trekkers can encounter a harsh, desert-like landscape marked by dramatic red cliffs rising sharply above the trail and deep canyons. This raw and powerful striking landscape provides a captivating backdrop for those seeking adventures in lesser-known places.
One of the fascinating aspects of Upper Mustang is its culture, which is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism. This place was once known as a forbidden kingdom, where the region has preserved its identity, including language, spiritual traditions, and lifestyle. Travelers can explore historic villages with walls, ancient monasteries, and sacred caves covered in Buddhist paintings and writings that are hundreds of years old. The locals of Mustang are friendly and welcoming, as trekking here lets you witness the traditional way of life that has stayed mostly the same for generations, making it an enriching and authentic travel experience.
Along with cultural and natural attractions, the trek gives breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, making the journey even more unforgettable. Thanks to its remote location and limited permits, the area is less crowded. This helps travelers enjoy a serene, intimate journey away from the usual tourist spots. For anyone looking for adventure, spiritual connection, and amazing views, trekking to Upper Mustang offers a truly memorable experience that seems like stepping into the past.
Why is Upper Mustang called the “Forbidden Kingdom”?
Upper Mustang is known as the “Forbidden Kingdom” because it has long been closed to foreigners. The Nepalese government did not allow people to visit this remote area until the early 1990s, which helped to preserve its unique culture, traditions, and landscapes. Access was limited to a few people, mainly those with special permits or permission to visit.
Because Upper Mustang was an isolated area for so many years, it managed to preserve its traditional way of life, remaining untouched by modern influences that have transformed much of the surrounding region. The locals of Upper Mustang preserved their traditional Tibetan lifestyle, including their language, customs, and daily practices, making the area feel like a forgotten chapter of history.
Today, Upper Mustang is open to travelers, but often called the “Forbidden Kingdom,” a name that reflects its mysterious and isolated history. This also highlights the unique and rare experience that travelers enjoy when visiting this hidden gem in the Himalayas.
Places to Explore During the Upper Mustang Trek
During your Upper Mustang Trek, there is a variety of things to explore, making your journey rewarding and full of unforgettable memories. Some of the major highlights to explore are given below.
Lo Manthang
Lo Manthang, the ancient walled city of Upper Mustang, is a unique place where Tibetan culture continues to flourish. Here, traditions, language, and spiritual practices have endured through centuries, offering visitors a rare glimpse into a vibrant cultural heritage preserved. This place is surrounded by impressive high walls, where you can witness traditional mud-brick houses alongside beautiful monasteries.
Chooser Village and Caves
Chooser village is renowned for the impressive caves carved into the striking rock cliffs that encircle the area. These caves were used for many purposes by local people in the past, including meditation and shelter. Exploring Chooser Village and Caves provides a unique insight into the spiritual and historical heritage of Mustang.
Geling Village
Geling village is a peaceful and charming spot to stop for trekkers making their way to the ancient city of Lo Manthang. Situated in the heart of Mustang valley, Geling village provides spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding red cliffs and deep canyons, creating a peaceful backdrop during the trek. Known for its traditional stone houses and warm hospitality, the village is a welcoming stop to rest and experience authentic Mustang culture.
Dhakar village
Dhakar is the major spiritual highlight of Upper Mustang, famous for its historic Buddhist monasteries and wall paintings. The village reflects the deep spiritual heritage of the region, with well-preserved religious artwork and holy places.
Upper Mustang Trek Itinerary from High Camp Adventure
High Camp Adventure’s Upper Mustang Trek is a journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich regions, where travelers can explore ancient monasteries, Tibetan-influenced villages, impressive desert landscapes, and the raw beauty of the Himalayas. The itinerary provided by High Camp Adventure includes rest days and wraps up with a return to Kathmandu via Pokhara.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m). Pickup and Transfer to the hotel)
Day 02: Trek preparation and Sightseeing in Kathmandu.
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (822 m), 7 hours.
Day 04: Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,721 m) and Trek to Kagbeni (2,802 m), 4 hours.
Day 05: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,058 m), 6 hours.
Day 06: Trek from Chele to Syanboche (3,480 m), 7 hours.
Day 07: Trek from Syanboche to Ghami (3,520 m), 4-5 hours.
Day 08: Trek from Ghami to Tsarang (3,580 m), 5 hours.
Day 09: Trek from Tsarang to Lo Manthang (3,840 m), 5-6 hours.
Day 10: Rest day at Lo Manthang.
Day 11: Trek from Lo Manthang to Dhakmar (3,820 m), 7 hours.
Day 12: Trek from Dhakmar to Ghiling (3,565 m), 4-5 hours.
Day 13: Trek from Ghiling to Chuksang (2,985 m), 7 hours.
Day 14: Trek from Chuksang to Muktinath (3,720 m), 6-7 hours.
Day 15: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,721 m), 5 hours.
Day 16: Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (822 m), 20-25 minutes.
Day 17: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400 m), 7-8 hours.
Day 18: Final Departure from International Airport.
Upper Mustang Trek Permits: What You Need to Know
Trekking in Upper Mustang requires special permits, which are strictly regulated than in most other regions of Nepal because it is a restricted area. Below are the essential permits you need to obtain for the Upper Mustang Trek.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is required for anyone trekking in the Annapurna region. This permit helps preserve the region’s environment, wildlife, and cultural heritage. The main objective of this permit is to help take care of the trails and support local projects in the area. Trekkers are required to carry the ACAP with them at all times as they pass through different checkpoints along the trail.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit Fees
- NPR 3,000 for Foreigners
- NPR 1,000 for SAARC Nationals
- NPR 100 for Nepali Citizens
Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is mandatory for trekking in Upper Mustang, as the government of Nepal controls the region. Because Upper Mustang lies near the border of Tibet and is home to a well-preserved Tibetan Buddhist culture, the Nepalese government imposes strict access control. If you want to explore Upper Mustang, you need to get your RAP through a registered agency and trek alongside a licensed guide. This RAP permit helps control the number of visitors and protect Upper Mustang’s special culture and nature.
Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit Fees
- USD 500 FOR Foreign trekkers (10 Days) and USD 50 Extra (per day)
Best Time to Trek Upper Mustang
Trekking in Upper Mustang is possible throughout the year, but the weather, views, and trail conditions change with each season. Whether you are chasing blossoms or clear skies, here’s what each season in Upper Mustang has to offer you.
Spring season (March to May)
Spring is considered one of the best seasons for trekking in Upper Mustang. During this time weather is mild and stable, the trails are dry and easy to navigate, and the skies are clear. Blooming wildflowers add bursts of color to the arid landscape, and the region feels particularly vibrant, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural discovery.
Summer season (June to August)
Although the summer season brings heavy rain in most of Nepal, Upper Mustang remains mostly dry because it is located in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, which blocks the monsoon clouds. As a result, this makes it a good time to trek, rewarding with green, peaceful, and few tourists in the area.
Autumn season (September to November)
Autumn is one of the best times to trek in Upper Mustang, offering good weather, clear skies, and great mountain views. Because of the ideal conditions, this season is known to be the peak trekking season. Some festivals like Dashain and Tihar happen in the month, making the trip even more special.
Winter season (December to February)
Winter trekking in Upper Mustang is possible but challenging due to temperatures often below freezing point, and snow covering some parts of the trail. During this time, most of the tea houses are closed, requiring careful planning. Despite the harsh conditions, winter offers complete solitude, untouched landscapes, and the raw beauty of Mustang that only a few can experience.
Accommodation and Meals During the Upper Mustang Trek
During the Upper Mustang Trek, accommodation is usually in basic teahouses or lodges with simple rooms. The rooms are cozy, with shared or private bathrooms, depending on where you stay. Though the facilities are basic, these places offer a warm and welcoming environment to trekkers, where they get ready for the next day's adventure. The area is cold at times, so bring a warm sleeping bag. Along the way, some places might have electricity and Wi-Fi facilities, but they aren’t always reliable.
Meals at the time of Upper Mustang Trek include Nepali and Tibetan dishes such as Dal Bhat, noodles, MoMo, and vegetables, depending on the area you reach. The meals are fresh and help give you energy for long walks. Along the way, you often get traditional local butter tea, helping trekkers to stay hydrated under the mountain skies.
Tips for a Successful Trek to Upper Mustang
Here are some essential tips for a successful trek to Upper Mustang:
- To prevent altitude sickness, make sure to include a rest day to adjust to the high altitude.
- Wear layered clothes to handle cold, windy, and dry conditions. Also, pack a good sleeping bag to stay warm, and sun protection is are must-have for your trek.
- Stay hydrated and make sure the water is purified before you drink.
- Mustang is deeply rooted in Tibetan culture, so be respectful of local customs, monasteries, and traditions.
- Before beginning the Upper Mustang Trek, make sure to obtain all the required permits, as they make your trip better and contribute to supporting the local community.
- In remote areas, accommodation is basic with simple rooms and unreliable internet.
- Flight may be delayed or canceled, so be mentally prepared for the change in plans.
