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Upper Mustang Trek

Upper part (Northern area) of Mustang District
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Tour snapshot

Duration:
22 Days
Min Group Size:
2 persons
Location:
Nepal
Tour Type:
Trekking in Nepal

Overview

Nestled among the high peaks of the Himalayas, there exists a pocket of land that had barely been touched by the outer world until recent times. This section, called the Jomsom-Mustang area in the high Himalayas, retains many ancient treasures in its 16th-century monasteries as if time stood still for an unadulterated view of Tibetan culture.



The Upper Mustang region, with its breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage, is a testament to the resilience of its people and the beauty of its landscape. Known as the Buddhist Kingdom of Mustang, or Lo, this area is situated in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, shielded by the towering Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs.



A trek into Upper Mustang is a journey back in time, where ancient monasteries and royal palaces punctuate the landscape, each with a story to tell of centuries gone by. It follows the ancient trading route along the Kali Gandaki River and offers peeks into the active culture and traditions of the area.

From the dry, desert-like plateau of Tibet, it drastically shifts to lush hills near Pokhara for a perfect contrast that offers thrilling trekking experiences. Great, breathtaking views of the path start unfolding one after another from the gigantic peaks of Mount Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and several other towering Himalayas.


But that is not all that makes Upper Mustang special, for it is also home to many people who are native to this part of the world. This has a combination of the local culture and nature, thus offering different ecosystems of flora and fauna that add to the region's appeal.



This trek route of the Upper Mustang offers a chance for both the thrill-seeker and one who wants to immerse themselves in culture. Whether one takes in ancient monasteries, treks over craggy terrain, or simply stares out at awing vistas, this little gem amidst the Himalayas will leave marks on anyone visiting here.

 

Highlights

  • Explore ancient 16th-century monasteries frozen in time.

 

  • Immerse yourself in the Tibetan culture of the Buddhist Kingdom of Mustang.

 

  • Trek through a rain-shadow region behind the towering Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs.

 

  • Witness breathtaking landscapes, from desert-like terrain to lush Himalayan peaks.

 

  • Follow the historic trading route along the scenic Kali Gandaki River.

 

  • Get up close and personal with Mount Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri, among other majestic peaks.

 

  • Encounter diverse flora and fauna in a pristine natural setting.

 

  • Experience the perfect blend of local culture and nature in this remote corner of the world.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu (1,400 m.)
1,400 m.
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First of all, you have to come to Nepal. Representatives from our hotel, the Holy Himalaya Hotel, will come to pick you up at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. We’ll give you orientation about the trek after you have settled in the hotel.
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Day 2: Free Day at Kathmandu (1,400 m.)
1,400 m.
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On the second day, you will be taken on a sightseeing tour to Kathmandu Valley, a place that includes Boudha Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. If you have not enrolled for sightseeing, you can roam around by yourself and explore ancient Kathmandu. You can also go shopping for the necessary trekking equipment and rest before the long trek starts.
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Day 3: Flight from Kathmandu (1,400 m.) to Pokhara (822 m.)
1,400 m.
30 mins flight
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We take a thrilling short flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, about 30 minutes in length. If the window is clear, this flight will present you with grand mountain peaks to the north, like Annapurna I (8,019 m) and Langtang (7,205 m), besides the lush green Mahabharat range to the south (4,000 m). After landing at Pokhara, we’ll have a free day to explore Pokhara, immerse ourselves in the place’s lifestyle, and appreciate the natural beauty of the place.
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Day 4: Fly from Pokhara (822 m.) to Jomsom (2,743 m.) and trek to Kagbeni (2,804 m.)
2,804 m.
20 mins flight
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After breakfast in Pokhara, we take a short 30-minute mountain flight above the picturesque landscape to Jomsom, a small village nestled amidst stunning vistas. Jomsom, the windiest place in the country, awaits with its charm and adventure possibilities. Continuing our journey on foot from Jomsom into varied landscapes and then over the mighty Kali Gandaki, eventually down to Kagbeni village beside the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Nilgiri rivers, presents a difficult trip but a panorama hardly surpassed. Having come to know about the historic importance of Kagbeni, a vital point on the Trans-Himalayan salt trade route, we explore and then rest for the night to continue the journey.
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Day 5: Trek from Kagbeni (2,804 m.)to Chhuksang (2,950 m.)
2,950 m.
7 hours
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From Kagbeni, the trek heads towards Chhuksang, a quaint village bisected by the tranquil Narsing River. This village is nestled in an environment full of fields that grow varieties of barley, wheat, buckwheat, and other crops. In due course, the route turns through arid landscapes to reveal some of the most ancient monasteries and sacred mani walls that stand testament to the region's spiritual heritage. As we trek along this route, the scent of apple orchards and apricot groves greets us on the way, further enriching the sensory tapestry of our journey. Every step through Mustang is like being dunked into timeless beauty, where tradition and tranquility meet to give us one of the most unforgettable experiences of trekking.
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Day 6: Trek from Chhuksang (2,950 m.) to Samar (3,650 m.) via Ghyakar (3,650 m.)
3,650 m.
6-7 Hours
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Chhuksang our starting point for the day, follows a path into the strange and wonderful landscape of Samar Village. This is where the new road bypasses this ancient town, making it still feel quite remote from civilization. Samar offers two trek options to reach Sangbochen: the upper way via Bhena and Yamda and the lower route, which is filled with surprises like Chungshi Rangjung Cave. Plying along the patchy, dusty roads, we travel through this ancient land where every step reveals a new face of Mustang's alluring beauty. We start our journey of exploration and discovery amidst the arid beauty of Samar, where the spirit of adventure meets the tranquility of the Himalayas.
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Day 7: Trek from Samar (3,650 m.)to Ghiling (3,570 m.)
3,570 m.
6-7 Hours
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We bid adieu to the village of Samar and proceed on our journey ahead to Ghiling, an active settlement of Upper Mustang. Ghiling has a fair amount of significance due to the presence of its sacred monastery and a school, making it almost the heart of this mountain community. This town is situated at the base of big cliffs and is separated into two divisions: the school is on one side and the houses and a monastery are on the other. At one time, Ghiling had problems due to water shortages, but now everything has been well arranged. As we walk through this village, we are overwhelmed with a sense of resilience and life, a reflection of the enduring spirit of the Mustang region.
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Day 8: Trek from Ghiling (3,570 m.) to Ghemi (3,560 m.)
3,570 m.
6-7 Hours
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From Ghiling, the journey ahead takes us to the beautiful village of Ghemi, which is well-known for its good weather conditions and suitable cultivation. It is just two hours of easy trekking from here via the Karki La pass at 4020 meters or three hours a bit longer route via Nyi La at 4000 meters. Add to it the tea houses and the local building scatters, and one realizes the rustic charm of Ghemi, nestled amidst lush, green fields shaded with leafy trees. During summers, buckwheat and flowering mustard add beauty to nature around them. Prayer walls and colorful chortens set amidst ancient monasteries on quaint village alleys, the striking cliffs in hues of gray, ochre, and red set the stage for an unforgettable exploration.
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Day 9: Trek from Ghemi (3,560 m.) to Tsarang (3,971 m.) via Lo Gekhar Monastery
3,971 m.
6.5 Hours
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After a hearty breakfast at Ghemi, the journey continues toward the beautiful village of Tsarang via the inspiring Lo Gekhar Monastery, which testifies to the rich tapestry of Mustang's cultural heritage. Founded in the 8th century, this sacred site, otherwise known as Ghar Gonpa, is a monumental complex adorned with chorten and blessed by natural springs. Its restoration in the 17th century has preserved its historical significance. After a few hours of trekking, we ascend on steep and gentle paths to reach Tsarang village, which boasts an ancient monastery, regal forts, and white-washed houses with panoramic Himalayan views. This part of the journey is not only easy but also highly rewarding, as it provides one with breathtaking landscapes, sacred Mani walls, chortens, and other historical treasures.
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Day 10: Trek from Tsarang (3,630 m.) to Lo Manthang (3,840 m.)
3,840 m.
7 hours
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Early in the morning, we set our sights on the crowning jewel of our journey: the ancient city of Lo Manthang. Following the classic salt trading trail, we wind our way through the otherworldly landscapes of Upper Mustang to the former kingdom's capital. Now is the high time to get immersed in the rich history of this city, wandering its fortified walls and ancient monasteries, and beholding the regal forts. Gain an insight into the intimacy of the locals and the culture brought about by Tibetan Buddhism; enjoy local cuisine; and browse the very colorfully present local market to hunt for some unique keepsakes or handicrafts. Also, amidst the richness of such cultural exposures, never leave behind exploring Lo Manthang's outskirts, complete with beauty, adventure, and mystery.
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Day 11: Trek to the Eastern Valley and back to Lo Manthang (3,840 m.)
3,840 m.
6 hours
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During our stay in Lo Manthang, we will make exploration trips into the eastern valley to discover the ancient wonders nestled in the valley. We take an exciting tour to discover the Niphuk cave monastery, Gharphuk cave monastery, Zong cave, and beyond. These mystique caves carved into rugged mountains possess a beauty of their own, with narrow openings and passages leading us inside them. In a realm of towering desert mountains, where every step is a discovery of ancient craftsmanship and spiritual sanctity, each new marvel rises. At the end of the day, we return to the warmth and comfort of Lo Manthang, our hearts filled with memories of our day-long expedition into the heart of Mustang's eastern valley.
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Day 12: Trek to the western valley and back to Lo Manthang (3,840 m.)
3,840 m.
6 hours
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Leaving the city of Lo Manthang, our journey starts in the west valley of Upper Mustang for rugged beauty. The Namgyal Monastery, also known as Pal Ewam Namgyal Choedhe Thupten Dhargyeling Monastery, is a highly regarded monastery that has long been a focus of devoted pilgrims and traditional ritual performances. Smoky hallways of prayer at an elevation of 3,850 meters near the Tibet border tell a history of spirituality that has reverberated within its sacred halls. The timeless appeal of this area unfolds before us, scattered with bushes dotting arid landscapes as a testimony to a timeless past left behind by Mustang's ancient heritage. With every step, we breathe in the rich tapestry of history and spirituality that defines this enchanting corner of the Himalayas. Overnight at Lo Manthang.
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Day 13: Trek from Lo Mangthang (3,840 m.)to Yara (3,607 m.)
3,840 m.
7-8 hours
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The course of events now takes us to Yara, a hilltop village, after leaving the mythical boundaries of Lo Manthang. It sits on the left bank of a dry river that arises from the Luri Gompa area and has a rather warm climate than its peers in Upper Mustang. Geographers believe that there is a hidden lake beneath the village, and that is why single-story ground-floor houses have to be built in case of instability. However, it is not only the geological secrets that attract travelers but also a remarkable sandy cliff standing opposite the village, a natural wonder that has always surprised visitors with its exceptional beauty.
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Day 14: Hike to Luri Gompa (4,000 m.)and trek to Dhi Gaon (3,940 m.)
4,000 m.
6 hours
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From Yara, the trek leads to Dhi Gaon, but en-route stops at Luri Gompa are most fascinating. Located on a ridge with impressive developments of Upper Mustang's wilderness, Luri Gompa is a haven of spiritual peace and serenity where beautiful arts and architecture chiseled into the sandstone cliffs draw visitors from everywhere. Soaking ourselves into the serenity of this hidden gem, our further travel progresses towards Dhi Gaon. Situated in the eastern parts of Upper Mustang, Dhi Gaon lies in tranquility with the smooth river flowing beside the village, its source located right below the sacred lands of Lo Manthang and forming part of the mighty Kali Gandaki. With every step, we come into the eternal beauty of the landscapes of Mustang, where ancient traditions and natural beauty meet to give an experience incomparable to any other.
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Day 15: Trek from Dhi Gaon (3,940 m.) to Ghemi (3,560 m.)
3,940 m.
6-7 hours
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Our track follows the distant Ghemi village, which is way deep from Dhi Gaon in the District of Mustang in Nepal. Famous for its roots that date back into the 'land before time' era and its vibrant culture, Ghemi exhibits timeless beauty carved by unique architecture and striking landscapes. This village appears stunningly beautiful, full of white-washed houses with detailed carvings on doors and windows. Houses are a mixture of stone, raw mud brick, straw, and wood, demonstrating the traditional structure for which the village is proud. Holy carvings and sacred motifs adorn each corner of Ghemi in holy belief and tradition. It is a stroll through narrow alleys, with fluttering prayer flags, sacred mani walls, and ancient chortens that create an aura so captivatingly beautiful, with history and pulchritude combined in an enchanting harmony.
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Day 16: Trek from Ghemi (3,560 m.) to Tsile (3,100 m.)
3,560 m.
6 hours
From Ghemi, the route begins in the beautiful village of Tsele, situated on the bank of a calm river. Tsele or Chele is a small, beautiful village situated in the Upper Mustang region of Nepal. Renowned for its awe-inspiring vistas of the Himalayan Mountain Range, Tsele beckons travelers with its panoramic beauty. Traditional village architecture with buildings of mud and stone crowned with flat roofs gives this village an ageless charm. The rustic charm and serenity of Tsele strike the soul as we walk through its narrow lanes, inviting us to fall deep into its tranquil embrace and savor the wonders of the hidden gem of Mustang.
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Day 17: Trek from Tsile (3,100 m.)to Kagbeni (2,850 m.)
3,100 m.
6 hours
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From Tsele, the trek goes back to the beautiful Kagbeni village, a quintessential Tibetan settlement and the only getaway to Upper Mustang, placed in the Kali Gandaki River Valley. It is a timeless testimony to Himalayan heritage and has a standing history of several millennia. A walk down its narrow lanes, lined with centuries-old mud houses and colored prayer flags, gives one the feeling of having stepped into a time capsule of the medieval period preserved over time. Tucked within the rain shadow of the Greater Himalayas, Kagbeni's climate and landscape echo the vast, harsh splendor of the Tibetan Plateau: cool winds and arid landscape. We meander through this ancient village and are transported to a world where time stands still amidst the timeless charm of Himalayan antiquity.
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Day 18: Trek from Kagbeni (2,850 m.)to Jomsom (2,743 m.)
2,850 m.
4 hours
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As our trek draws to a close, we embark on the final leg from Kagbeni to Jomsom, savoring the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the traditional village life of this vibrant region. Amidst the picturesque landscapes, we take strolls through the quaint streets of Jomsom, soaking in the essence of Mustang's timeless charm. As the sun sets on our adventure, we seize the moment to indulge in the delights of this developed enclave, exploring bustling markets for souvenirs and relishing the flavors of local cuisine in cozy restaurants. With each encounter, we catch glimpses of daily life in this Himalayan oasis, cherishing the memories of our journey through the rugged grandeur of Mustang's majestic landscapes.
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Day 19: Fly from Jomsom (2,743 m.)to Pokhara (822 m.)
2,743 m.
20 mins
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By the time we are nearing the end of our days in the Mustang region, we wake up early in preparation for our flight to Pokhara. We are eager to board the plane that will take us above this stunning landscape. Reaching Pokhara, we immediately immerse ourselves in the excitement and energy of a town alive with trekkers and tourists alike. In a while, just 30 minutes, we are taken away from the rugged grandeur of Mustang to the vibrant energy of Pokhara as the next chapter of our journey unfolds.
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Day 20: Free day at Pokhara (822 m.)
822 m.
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After days of continuous and tiring treks over the rugged terrain, today is a well-deserved free day in Pokhara. This is the time to relax and rebuild our exhausted bodies and minds. We have a host of options before us: either a relaxing boat ride on the tranquil waters of Phewa Lake, a visit to the serene Peace Pagoda, or an exhilarating paragliding adventure from Sarangkot. We could also see the panoramic views of the Pokhara Valley from Pumdikot Hills. In our mouth, as a feast to our taste buds, wander around at local cafes and taste food items. Lastly, to rejuvenate thoroughly from our tired bodies and feel rejuvenated, take a rest in spas and massage centers. Let our relaxed mood today be making the best of each day.
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Day 21: Fly back to Kathmandu (1,400 m.)
1,400 m.
30 mins flight
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We will start our final day with an early morning flight from Pokhara back to Kathmandu, going on a scenic flight that will offer us a bird's-eye view of the majestic mountain peaks. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we can either take our time to rest or summon what little energy remains and hit the streets to take in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling city. And then, after ten days of trekking, the rich culture and lively atmosphere of Kathmandu call just what we need before bidding farewell to this epic adventure.
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Day 22: International Departure
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Depending on our flight schedule, you may choose to explore the local cultural and heritage sites or shop for souvenirs for your friends and family back home. You may choose to end your trip at this point or extend it further by joining for another adventure that might take you on an elephant’s back, exploring Chitwan National Park, paragliding in Pokhara, or even a trek to the base of Mount Everest.

Included/Excluded

Airport Pick up and Drop Off
Accommodation in Kathmandu at Holy Himalaya Eco Trek, or similar standard
Domestic Transportation during the trek
Accommodation on twin sharing basis
Necessary equipment during trek
Experienced trekking guide
All expenses of the trekking staffs
Necessary permits for the trek
Personal Expenses
Travel Insurance
Sightseeing entry fees in Kathmandu
Cost incidental to any change in the itinerary
Anything else not mentioned in the inclusion list

Service Fee Only, Explore Nepal Fully!

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FAQs about Upper Mustang Trek

What is Upper Mustang and why is it called the Forbidden Kingdom?

Upper Mustang is a remote Himalayan region in northern Nepal that was once an independent kingdom known as the Kingdom of Lo. It remained closed to foreign visitors until 1992, which earned it the nickname "The Forbidden Kingdom." The region preserves ancient Tibetan culture, centuries-old monasteries, cave dwellings, and traditional villages largely unchanged by modern development.

Which trekking agency is best for Upper Mustang Trek in Nepal?

A reliable trekking agency for the Upper Mustang Trek should provide experienced guides, permit arrangements, safety support, and customized itineraries. Holy Himalaya Eco Trek Nepal specializes in responsible and eco-friendly trekking experiences, offering professionally guided Upper Mustang treks with cultural insights and personalized service.

How can I book an Upper Mustang Trek with Holy Himalaya Eco Trek Nepal?

You can book the Upper Mustang Trek by contacting Holy Himalaya Eco Trek through its website, email, or WhatsApp. Once your travel dates are confirmed, the team will assist with permits, domestic flights, accommodation, guides, and all trek logistics.

What is the price of Upper Mustang Trek?

The cost of the Upper Mustang Trek depends on group size, itinerary length, transportation, accommodation, and services included. The trek is generally more expensive than standard Nepal treks because of the restricted area permit fee and remote location. Contact Holy Himalaya Eco Trek for the latest customized pricing.

How many days does the Upper Mustang Trek take?

Most Upper Mustang Trek itineraries take between 12 and 17 days, depending on the route and pace. A standard itinerary includes travel between Kathmandu, Pokhara, Jomsom, and Lo Manthang, along with sufficient time for acclimatization and cultural exploration.

What is the full Upper Mustang Trek route?

The classic Upper Mustang Trek begins with a flight to Jomsom and follows the route through Kagbeni, Chele, Syangboche, Ghami, Tsarang, and Lo Manthang before returning via a similar trail. The journey follows ancient trade routes connecting Nepal and Tibet.

What is Lo Manthang and what can I see there?Lo Manthang is the historic walled capital of Upper Mustang and the cultural heart of the former Kingdom of Lo. Visitors can explore royal palaces, ancient monasteries, traditional Tibetan houses, narrow alleyways, and centuries-old Buddhist heritage sites.

Lo Manthang is the historic walled capital of Upper Mustang and the cultural heart of the former Kingdom of Lo. Visitors can explore royal palaces, ancient monasteries, traditional Tibetan houses, narrow alleyways, and centuries-old Buddhist heritage sites.

What makes Upper Mustang Trek unique compared to other treks in Nepal?

Unlike Nepal's greener trekking regions, Upper Mustang features dramatic desert-like landscapes, colorful cliffs, Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient cave settlements, and medieval villages. Its combination of history, spirituality, and unique geography makes it one of Nepal's most distinctive trekking destinations.

What permits are required for Upper Mustang Trek?

Trekkers need an Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits are mandatory for all foreign visitors entering the restricted region. Holy Himalaya Eco Trek Nepal arranges all required permits before the trek begins.

What is the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit and how much does it cost?

The Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit is a special government permit required to enter the restricted region north of Kagbeni. The permit currently costs USD 500 per person for the first 10 days, with an additional daily fee for extended stays. The permit must be obtained through a registered trekking agency.

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