What Does the Upper Mustang Permit Cost in 2026?
Upper Mustang — the medieval, Tibetan-Buddhist kingdom of Lo behind the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs — changed its permit structure in late 2025. The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is now USD 50 per person per day, replacing the old flat USD 500 for 10 days. And as of March 2026, the long-standing 2-trekker minimum has been lifted, so solo trekkers can now obtain the permit. This is one of Nepal's most exclusive and culturally rich treks, and because it sits in the Himalayan rain shadow, it's also the country's premier monsoon-season trek.
The walled capital of Lo Manthang sits at 3,840m, with passes up to around 4,200m — moderate altitude compared to EBC or Manaslu — making this a culturally intense rather than physically extreme trek.
Upper Mustang Permits and Costs (2026)
| Permit | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restricted Area Permit (RAP) | USD 50/person/day | Changed from flat USD 500/10 days in late 2025 |
| ACAP | NPR 3,000 (~USD 25) | Annapurna Conservation Area |
| TIMS | ~USD 20 | Issued in Kathmandu/Pokhara |
| Guide | Mandatory | Restricted area — registered agency required |
The Korala border with Tibet opened in November 2025, increasing access and interest in the region.
How Long Is the Upper Mustang Trek?
- Full trek: 12–17 days on foot from Jomsom
- Jeep option: 6–10 days using the rough road that now reaches Lo Manthang
- Max altitude: Lo Manthang 3,840m; passes up to ~4,200m
- Population: ~6,000, living in one of the last intact Tibetan Buddhist cultures
Why Upper Mustang Is the Best Monsoon Trek in Nepal
While the rest of Nepal drowns under monsoon rain (June–August), Upper Mustang stays dry because the high Himalaya block the rain clouds. This makes it the one classic Nepal trek you can do in summer.
- Dry climate: Arid, high-desert landscape of ochre cliffs and eroded canyons
- Tiji Festival: A 3-day masked-dance festival at Lo Manthang, typically in May (exact date follows the Tibetan calendar)
- Best months: March–November, plus the unique monsoon window
What to Pack for the Upper Mustang Trek
Mustang is dry, windy, and dusty by day, cold at night, with intense high-altitude sun.
Clothing
- Down jacket: 650 FP is sufficient for the moderate altitude — see our down jackets
- Windproof shell — Mustang's afternoon winds are fierce; a windcheater is essential
- Buff/face covering for dust, sun hat, high-SPF sunscreen
- Base layers and a fleece mid layer
Sleeping and Carrying
- Sleeping bag rated -5 to -10°C comfort
- Insulated water bottle — the dry air dehydrates you fast
- 30L daypack + duffel with porter, or 50L self-carry — see our trekking bags
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Upper Mustang permit in 2026?
The Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit is USD 50 per person per day in 2026, changed from the old flat USD 500 for 10 days. You also need an ACAP permit (NPR 3,000) and TIMS card.
Can you trek Upper Mustang solo now?
As of March 2026, the 2-trekker minimum has been lifted, so solo trekkers can obtain the permit. However, you must still trek with a licensed guide through a registered agency, as it remains a restricted area.
Is Upper Mustang worth the cost?
For travellers drawn to living Tibetan Buddhist culture, the walled city of Lo Manthang, and otherworldly high-desert scenery, Upper Mustang is one of Nepal's most rewarding treks — and the only classic route you can do in monsoon.
Can you trek Upper Mustang in monsoon?
Yes. Upper Mustang lies in the Himalayan rain shadow and stays dry during the June–August monsoon, making it Nepal's premier summer trek when other routes are washed out.
Gear Up for Upper Mustang at Himalayan Hardwear, Thamel
Windcheaters, down jackets, insulated water bottles and dust-season essentials — all in stock at our store in Jyatha, Thamel, Kathmandu. Open daily 9am–8pm, or contact us on +977-1-5362200.
