Explore the dry Himalayan rain-shadow region rich in culture, cliffs, and ancient heritage
Upper Mustang lies in the north of Nepal, beyond the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Unlike the green valleys in most treks, Mustang’s dry, barren hills resemble the high deserts of Tibet. This region remained a restricted kingdom until 1992 and still requires special permits today.
The trek offers a rare look at a place that has preserved its ancient lifestyle and beliefs. From cave monasteries to walled cities like Lo Manthang, every part of the route reflects a culture that feels unchanged for centuries. The trail is not physically difficult in terms of elevation gain, but the strong winds, dry terrain, and long days on foot make preparation essential.
Cultural Exposure over Altitude Challenge Unlike high-altitude treks like the Everest Three Passes or Annapurna Circuit, the Upper Mustang Trek does not go above 4000 meters. The focus here is more on cultural depth and geographic uniqueness than snowy peaks.
Lo Manthang and Tibetan Influence The capital of Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang, is a medieval walled city filled with prayer flags, narrow alleys, and ancient monasteries. The region practices Tibetan Buddhism, and you’ll find unique chortens, mani walls, and cliffside caves used for meditation or burial.
As Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna range, it gets very little rainfall. The result is a dry, dusty trail with eroded cliffs, layered canyons, and red and brown hills that stretch to the horizon.
Permits and Restrictions Upper Mustang is a restricted area, and you need two permits:
Restricted Area Permit (RAP): USD 500 for 10 days, with USD 50 per additional day
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Trekkers must go through a registered agency and hire a licensed guide. Independent trekking is not allowed in this region.
There is no road to Lo Manthang beyond what connects from Jomsom, and walking through this landscape allows you to truly absorb the region's stillness and remoteness.
Most treks start with a flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. From there, you walk north through the Kali Gandaki valley, passing through villages like Kagbeni, Chele, and Ghami before reaching Lo Manthang. On the way back, you may take a different route through Dhakmar or Yara depending on your itinerary.
The walk is dusty, exposed, and often windy by the afternoon. Mornings are the best time to trek. The villages are spaced apart with teahouses offering basic but clean accommodation. Most places serve Tibetan-style food like noodle soups, bread, and simple rice dishes.
The landscape changes constantly. Some sections feel like lunar terrain, while others pass through cultivated barley fields and whitewashed settlements. Each stop adds another layer to your understanding of the local culture and beliefs.
The best time for the Upper Mustang Trek is between April and November. Since the area is in the rain shadow, it is possible to trek during the monsoon (June to August), unlike other trails in Nepal.
Spring and autumn offer cooler temperatures and clearer skies. Winter is extremely cold, and many lodges close as locals migrate to lower areas.
As per the rule, a guide is mandatory for this trek. But beyond that, hiring a knowledgeable guide enhances the experience. They explain the religious importance of caves, introduce you to locals, and help you navigate this culturally rich trail with sensitivity.
A porter can help carry your load, especially useful in this dry and windy environment where long walks under a strong sun can exhaust you faster than expected.
Choose guides and porters who are familiar with the Mustang region, not just general trekking routes.
For this dry and open trail, good sun protection and wind resistance are more important than snow gear. Pack
Most villages offer simple teahouses with wooden beds, blankets, and basic washrooms. The food is similar to other Himalayan treks but has Tibetan influence. Expect thukpa (noodle soup), tsampa (roasted flour), and momos.
Dal Bhat is always an option and is a filling choice for trekkers. Drinking warm Tibetan butter tea with locals is often part of the experience.
The Upper Mustang Trek is not about physical extremes but about walking into a part of the Himalayas that feels locked in time. Its landscapes are otherworldly, but the true beauty lies in the cultural depth, the quiet of its valleys, and the stories etched into its cliffs and monasteries.
This trek gives more than scenery. It offers a chance to understand a part of Nepal that once remained hidden and still feels like a world apart. With the right preparation, guidance, and mindset, Upper Mustang becomes a journey of discovery that goes far beyond the trail.