Upper Mustang Trek - The Last Forbidden Kingdom

Journey to Nepal's hidden Tibetan kingdom with its ancient monasteries, cave dwellings, and dramatic desert landscapes.

Why Trek to Upper Mustang?

  • Explore the last preserved Tibetan kingdom outside Tibet
  • Witness stunning desert landscapes in the Himalayas
  • Visit the medieval walled city of Lo Manthang
  • See ancient cave dwellings carved into cliffs
  • Experience the vibrant Tiji Festival (if trekking in May)
  • Enjoy less crowded trails compared to other popular treks

Trek Itinerary (14 Days)

Day Route Altitude Highlights
1 Kathmandu to Pokhara 820m Scenic flight or drive
2 Pokhara to Jomsom to Kagbeni 2,810m Thrilling mountain flight to Jomsom
3 Kagbeni to Chele 3,050m Enter restricted Mustang area
4 Chele to Syanboche 3,475m First views of Mustang's desert landscape
5 Syanboche to Ghami 3,520m Ancient monasteries and red cliffs
6 Ghami to Tsarang 3,620m Tsarang Monastery and royal palace
7 Tsarang to Lo Manthang 3,840m Arrive at walled capital city
8 Lo Manthang Exploration 3,840m Royal palace, ancient monasteries, local villages
9-13 Return trek via different route Visit more monasteries and villages
14 Jomsom to Pokhara to Kathmandu 1,400m Flight back to civilization

Permit Requirements

Permit Cost Validity Notes
Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit $500 (first 10 days)
$50/day thereafter		 For trek duration Minimum 2 trekkers required
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) $30 Single entry Required for entire Annapurna region
TIMS Card $20 Single trek Required for all treks in Nepal

Important Notice:

Upper Mustang is a restricted area requiring a licensed guide. Independent trekking is not permitted. You must obtain permits through a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu.

Best Time to Visit

  • May: Best for Tiji Festival but can be windy
  • September-November: Stable weather, clear skies
  • March-April: Pleasant temperatures
  • June-August: Monsoon season but Upper Mustang is in rain shadow
  • December-February: Very cold, some passes may be snowed

Trek Difficulty & Preparation

Factor Details
Difficulty Level Moderate
Maximum Altitude 4,200m (Lo La Pass)
Daily Walking 5-7 hours
Trail Conditions Good trails but can be dusty and windy
Physical Preparation 2-3 months of cardio and strength training recommended

Cultural Highlights

  • Lo Manthang: Walled capital city with royal palace
  • Thubchen Monastery: 15th century monastery with beautiful murals
  • Jampa Gompa: Oldest monastery in Lo Manthang
  • Chhoser Cave Dwellings: Ancient human-made caves
  • Tiji Festival: Three-day religious festival (usually May)

What Makes Upper Mustang Unique?

[Map of Upper Mustang Trek Route]
  • One of the last places with preserved Tibetan culture
  • Dramatic contrast of Himalayan peaks and desert landscapes
  • Ancient trade route between Tibet and Nepal
  • Unique architecture with whitewashed houses and colorful woodwork
  • Home to the former Kingdom of Lo with its own royal family

Essential Packing List

Category Items
Clothing Thermal layers, down jacket, windproof shell, trekking pants, warm hat, sunglasses
Footwear Sturdy trekking boots, camp shoes, wool socks
Gear Backpack (40-50L), sleeping bag (-10 degree celsius), headlamp, water purification
Health First aid kit, sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm, altitude medication

Important Considerations

  • ATMs are unavailable - bring enough cash for entire trek
  • Accommodation is basic teahouses with shared facilities
  • Electricity may be limited - bring power banks
  • Respect local customs - ask before photographing people or religious sites
  • Weather can change rapidly - be prepared for cold nights and windy days