Upper Mustang Trek - 19 Days

Why Upper Mustang Trek?

The Upper Mustang Trek is a culturally rich Himalayan trekking experience into the forbidden kingdom of Nepal. The famous Upper Mustang was a restricted kingdom until 1992. Trekking here into the restricted kingdom gives trekkers access to one of the most preserved Tibetan cultures in the world, almost untouched by modern innovations and development.

During the Upper Mustang Trek, trekkers get the chance to witness centuries-old monasteries, mani walls, chortens, and sky caves. The legendary walled city of Lo Manthang, even today, still follows traditional ways of life, providing for a culturally rich and significant journey for the trekkers.

What truly separates the Upper Mustang trek is unlike the green hills in most of Nepal, the Upper Mustang trek offers a unique desert-like landscape, making it a sight-worth journey. Another major attraction is the ancient capital of Mustang, Lo Manthang, which is also considered a living museum. The city’s medieval fortifications, narrow alleys, royal palace, and monasteries offer a unique glimpse into the past Himalayan era.

Upper Mustang Trek Difficulty

The Upper Mustang Trek is considered a moderate-level trek and is suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. The Upper Mustang Trek, unlike the other Everest region treks such as the Everest Base Camp or the Everest Three Passes, is not that challenging, making for a beginner/family-friendly trek.

Here are some of the potential difficulties trekkers may face during the Upper Mustang Trek

1. Altitude

The Upper Mustang Trek takes you to about 3,810 meters in Lo Manthang, which is the highest point of the trek. Although not as high as the other famous treks, such as the Everest Base Camp, trekking at such altitudes still requires caution and acclimatization to avoid any risks of Altitude Sickness.

2. Trail Conditions

The Upper Mustang Trek takes trekkers on a diverse trail conditions. Usually, the treks are well-established but can be dry, dusty, and windy in the Upper Mustang region. The trails on some sections involve a rocky and uneven path, requiring caution during the trek. The unique desert-like terrain can pose a challenge and can be tiring for some trekkers under the sun and wind exposure.

3. Trek Duration

The Upper Mustang Trek is usually a bit longer in duration than other typical treks. The trek typically takes about 14 to 18 days to complete, with daily walking of 5-7 hours on average. While the elevation gain during the Upper Mustang Trek is not that drastic, the long days and constant exposure to the heat and wind can make it a physically demanding trek.

4. Weather and Climate

Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow area of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, meaning it receives little to no rain in comparison to other trekking regions of Nepal. This is both beneficial and has its disadvantages, as with no rain, the Upper Mustang area gets quite dry and windy, especially in the afternoons. Strong and harsh winds and exposure to the heat can add to the fatigue of trekkers.

5. Remoteness and Lack of Facilities

The Upper Mustang Trek takes trekkers to the remote regions of the Northwestern part of Nepal. While there are lodges and teahouses available in most villages during the trek, these teahouses are more basic than those in the other popular trekking routes. Facilities such as wi-fi, electricity for charging devices often come with extra charges due to the remote location.

Passport & Visa requirements

Regarding passport requirements, all visitors’ passports must have validity for at least six months from your arrival in Nepal. Also, in the passport, you must have at least one blank page for your visa stamp. We recommend that you carry photocopies of your passport in case of any emergencies or permit requirements. We would like to point out that it is mandatory to carry your passport with you at all times during the trek, as it is required for internal flights.

For visitors all around the world (except Indian citizens), you will require an entry visa. Most visitors can easily get a Tourist visa for Nepal. However, some Asian and African nationalities are required to apply for their visa in advance.

On-Arrival Visa Fee:

• 15 Days – USD 30
• 30 Days  – USD 50
• 90 Days – USD 125

Note: Regarding multiple entries, if you’re planning to leave and re-enter Nepal (side trips to Tibet or Bhutan), you’ll need a multiple-entry visa that costs USD 25 extra. And we advise you to carry some cash (US or other major currencies) to pay for the visa fee. Traveler’s cheques are not accepted.

Your Visa can be obtained at Nepalese Embassies or Consulates in your home country or on arrival in Kathmandu. But we strongly advise you to fill out an online visa application for faster visa processing and avoid delays. You can apply through the Nepal Immigration Website before your arrival to save time at the airport.

Regarding Visa Extension:

You always have the option to extend your visa at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. A 30-day visa sufficiently covers the trip duration for most of our packages available.

For more information regarding the Visa and Passport requirements, stay updated on any new changes in rules and regulations from the Department of Immigration site.

Upper Mustang Trek Permits

Access Nepal Tour and Trekking would obtain all required permits for trekking on your behalf. Also, the costs of permits are already included in your package cost. No extra payment is required to obtain them.

To embark on a trek in the Annapurna region, you need to secure two key permits: an Annapurna Conservation Area entry permit and a Restricted Area Permit. A TIMS Card may not be strictly mandatory for the Upper Mustang Trek if you have a Restricted Area Permit (RAP).

Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit

Upper Mustang falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is why the Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit is necessary for trekking in this region. The permit fee contributes to the conservation efforts and community development in the Annapurna region.

Here is a breakdown of the cost for the Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit (ACAP):

• For Foreigners: USD 24-30/NPR 3,000
• For SAARC Nationals: USD 7-8/NPR 1,000
• For Nepali Nationals: NPR 100

Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

The Restricted Area Permit or RAP is the most significant and expensive permit for the Upper Msutang Trek. Upper Mustang is a restricted area, and to enter Upper Mustang, a Restricted Area Permit is a must-have.

The cost to obtain the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Upper Mustang is USD 500 per person for the first 10 days. If your stay exceeds 10 days, an additional USD 50 per person per day is charged.

The permits must be obtained through a local, government-registered trekking company in Nepal, which Access Nepal Tour and Trekking does for you.

A Typical Day on the Upper Mustang Trek

Trekking in the remote region of Nepal, a typical day on the Upper Mustang Trek offers a balance of rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and manageable walking hours. Trekkers can expect their typical day on the Upper Mustang Trek to begin by waking early and enjoying a warm drink.

After a hearty breakfast at the teahouse in your accommodation, you begin trekking through the dry valleys, canyons, and ancient villages. Trekkers then stop for lunch at the teahouse along the trekking route. Then, continue trekking toward the next overnight stop. In the evening, you rest and explore the village, and engage in various activities such as exploring monasteries and interacting with the locals.

Following this, you will be welcomed with a warm, filling dinner (typically Nepali Dal Bhat with unlimited refills) and end the day with a good night’s rest. The average trekking duration on your typical day on the Upper Mustang Trek is 5 to 7 hours. The terrain is mostly dry, dusty, and windy, with Tibetan-influenced villages and prayer flags surrounding the region. Throughout the days of your Upper Mustang Trek, trekkers walk at a steady pace to gradually get used to the altitude.

What to expect at the teahouse during the Upper Mustang Trek?

Teahouse offers some of the most basic services available in the Upper Mustang region. Such teahouses/guesthouses provide a simple yet memorable way to experience local life. The rooms in the teahouses are very basic on a twin-sharing basis with wooden beds, blankets, pillows, and mattresses. Attached bathroom facilities are quite rare, with most rooms having shared toilets.

Hot showers are available in most teahouses; however, they come at an additional charge. The dining area is often warm and heated in teahouses, and the food is prepared fresh with organic vegetables. Some of the popular meals include the Nepali Dal Bhat (unlimited refills) with Rice, Lentil soup, vegetables, pickles, and some protein. Other popular dishes include Momo, Fried Rice, Chowmein, and Thukpa.

Services such as wifi and electricity for charging devices are quite limited and can cost an additional fee in remote regions. Wi-Fi is available in select villages like Kagbeni and Lo Manthang. However, the signal is not quite reliable due to the remoteness. In the Upper Mustang Trek, trekkers can expect very basic accommodation and meal service during the trek.

Accommodation During the Upper Mustang Trek

Throughout the Upper Mustang Trek, we provide accommodation facilities in teahouses and mountain lodges during the trek. The rooms in the teahouses will primarily be on a twin-sharing basis. The accommodation offers basic comforts, including a cozy place to rest after each day’s trek. However, you can also customize your preferred accommodation for an additional cost.

Private attached bathrooms are available in the lower regions; however, in the upper remote regions, the services and facilities start to get very limited. Electricity for charging devices, Wi-Fi access, and hot shower facilities are available in most teahouses/lodges along the trekking route. However, these services often come with additional charges.

Food During the Upper Mustang Trek

One of the essential parts of the trek is taking proper nutrition. Supporting your body during high-altitude ascent is crucial. Meals rich in carbohydrates and proteins are highly recommended. Local delicacies are not only more hygienic but also nutritionally beneficial. The meals during the trek are served on a full-board (main course) basis. Seasonal fruits, tea, and coffee are also included.

Teahouses provide hygienic meals made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. A staple dish is the Nepali dish (daal bhat), which includes lentil soup, rice, seasonal vegetables, pickles, meat, and other side dishes.  In addition to traditional meals, teahouses also have other options like porridge, macaroni, spaghetti, pizza, lasagna, curry dishes, fried rice, momo (dumplings), sandwiches, Noodles (Chowmein), oats, and bakery items.

The traditional Nepali Dal Bhat comes with an unlimited refill option, making it one of the most popular dishes to consume on the trek.

Due to the location and accommodation type, food and drink prices may vary. We recommend carrying protein bars and dried fruits for extra energy.

Note: You can pre-inform us about any dietary preferences or allergies.

Drinking Water During the Upper Mustang Trek

While on trek, keeping your body hydrated is crucial for your day’s journey. Without proper hydration, there is a high chance you may feel unwell and unmotivated on your trekking journey. We strongly advise you to drink plenty of water during the trek and keep yourself hydrated. You should drink at least 5-6 liters of water daily during the trek. Keep your water bottle with you at all times and keep on hydrating your body in short intervals. You may refill your water bottles at the lodge or natural water sources along the way, which your guide recommends as safe for drinking.

We strongly advise you to purify the water before drinking it. We provide you with water purifiers so you can drink safe water. You can also buy bottled water in various shops and lodges along the way. But please note that the cost of bottled water rises as you reach higher altitudes. A liter of bottled water may cost you from USD 1 to up to USD 4, depending on the location.

We strongly advise you to carry two water bottles with you at all times. As the water purification process can take a bit of time, you can use one water bottle until the other water gets purified and is safe for drinking.

Nepalese Currency for Extra (personal) Expenses

We highly advise you to carry extra cash for your expenses. It is recommended that you carry the cash in Nepalese rupees from Kathmandu itself, so that you get a fair exchange rate. The amount of money to carry with you depends on your spending habits. However, we suggest you carry cash in Nepalese rupees equivalent to USD 15 to 20 per person, per day.

During the trek in high altitudes, ATMs are not reliable for withdrawing cash. That is why you should come prepared and carry some Nepalese currency for any emergencies or personal expenses during the trek.

Health and Safety Concerns during the Upper Mustang Trek

Our top priority during the whole trek, starting from your arrival in Kathmandu up until your departure, is your safety. Our trek plans and packages that we offer are carefully prepared by experts and experienced guides who know the routes very well and all the dangers along the journey.

In terms of first-aid and emergency check-ups, our well-trained guides are very capable of performing basic first aid and have over decades of experience and training for any emergencies and health concerns one can face during such adventurous treks.

If in any case, you start to feel unwell with Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or any other health concerns and need to get to a lower altitude, an assistant guide will go along with you to check up on you. If your health improves and you start to feel better, you can rejoin the trek, but if not, we will arrange for you to be escorted back for proper medical care and treatment.

Your health and safety are always our main concerns that we look out for.

Pre-trek check-up

We urge you to get yourself medically examined before taking on the trekking challenge. Please make sure you are cleared by your doctor to make this trip, which involves flying, hiking, and trekking. If you are given a conditional clearance or have a special medical condition (asthma, and others) or allergy that may be induced in specific conditions, be sure to let us know in full detail so that we can plan accordingly.

What kind of physical fitness is needed for the Upper Mustang Trek?

Although the trek is not technically challenging, prior experience of an altitude hike/trek is preferred. A good level of mental and physical fitness needs to be developed and maintained. It is advisable to train your body at least two months before the trek with cardiovascular workouts. Practice hikes with a pack of weight roughly equivalent to your actual pack would be helpful. While on trek, do not let your determination wither, and maintain a positive attitude at all times.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness can be triggered in high altitudes (generally higher than 2400m/7874ft) where there is less oxygen than in lower altitudes. It happens when you ascend to a great height in a short time before your body can adjust to the change. Symptoms that take anywhere between 6 hours to a few days to develop include severe, persistent headache, coughing, pressure in the chest, shortness of breath even while at rest, dizziness, tiredness, loss of appetite, and others. The illness may cause a medical emergency, especially when the condition worsens to high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) or High-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE).

AMS DO’s

• Stay hydrated. Drink frequently in small quantities before the onset of common symptoms of dehydration, which include thirst, dry lips, nose, or mouth, headache, and fatigue.
• Make sure you eat well, ensuring at least a light meal (soup or others) when you lose your appetite, which is a common occurrence in high-altitude regions.
• Follow your guide’s instructions and monitor your body’s responses to the cold and altitude.
• Acclimatize properly and take rest days when necessary.
• Stay clear of smoking and alcohol consumption at all costs.
• Avoid strenuous exercise.
• Take a first aid kit containing medication for altitude sickness and other common illnesses.
• Medication like Diamox may be taken before the trek upon consultation with your physician.

AMS DON’Ts

• Do not climb up too high, too quickly. Avoid walking at a hurried pace, and do not ignore your rhythm of breathing. Slow and steady with calm breathing is the way to go.
• Do not overcommit yourself, which might risk altitude sickness or injury.
• Do not wander away without your guide’s knowledge.
• Do not skip your meals.

Electricity and Charging of your devices on trek

Some of the lodges (in more remote areas) are powered by solar panels, and the energy supply is limited. You may be required to pay a minimum price (USD 1 to 3 per full charge) for charging cell phones and other electronic devices, which will be directly collected by the lodge owner.

Internet

Local mobile network operators like Ncell and NTC offer limited coverage along the ABC trek. You can avail of a local sim for as low as NRs. 100 (less than 1 USD) with limited validity and internet data volume. On average NRs. 100 to 500 would take care of your internet usage for the duration of the trip.

Additional/Special gears

A good quality sleeping bag and down jacket would be required to withstand the drop in temperature at the high altitude on the trek. A minimum rating of -15°C (5°F) would be advisable for the gears. Access Nepal offers the option of free borrowing of a decent quality sleeping bag and down jacket. These are rated up to -20°C (68°F). The gears are checked thoroughly for quality and cleaned after each usage. Please let us know in advance once you have booked your trip with us to enable us to arrange one for you. Also, please remember to return them once you are back from your trek.

Travel Insurance for the Upper Mustang Trek

Our team highly recommends getting your travel insurance before taking on the Upper Mustang Trek. Your insurance will cover any medical evacuation and other travel issues that may occur during the trek.

Nothing is certain when it comes to nature. Nature can get quite unforgiving at times, and while you will have the best of the guides with the best pieces of training along with you, there are always risks and dangers of nature lurking around. For these reasons, travel insurance can be a lifesaver.

Transportation

Access Nepal arranges for your transportation to the trek start and end points as part of the package services. A private car with a professional driver is generally arranged for the transfers. However, for transfers along the trekking trail and depending upon the circumstances, a shared vehicle would be utilized due to ease of availability.

The transfer from Kathmandu to Pokhara and vice versa would be in a deluxe tourist bus with an option of private car or flight transfers, subject to additional costs.

When is the best time to do the Upper Mustang Trek?

The best time to do the Upper Mustang Trek is during the Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November). The Summer/Monsoon (June-September) is also one of the few good seasons for trekking in Nepal, as the Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas.

• Spring (March to May): The weather is mild and dry with clear skies during the Spring season. The temperature is quite comfortable during this time, making it ideal conditions for trekking. During the Spring season, wildflowers bloom at lower altitudes with stunning Himalayan views. Also, the Tiji festival (a major cultural highlight) sometimes falls in May, making the Spring season one of the best times to do the Upper Mustang Trek for scenic adventure and cultural experiences.
• Autumn (September to November): The Autumn season is considered the most famous trekking season. The weather is dry and stable during the Autumn season with crystal-clear skies. The temperatures during the Autumn get quite cool and pleasant for trekking.
• Summer/Monsoon (June to Early September): Upper Mustang lies in the rain-shadow area of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. During this time, while most of Nepal is wet due to excessive rain, Upper Mustang still remains dry and accessible due to this unique feature. The Upper Mustang trek is one of the few treks in Nepal where the Monsoon is still a great time to do the trek.
• Winter (December to February): The weather during the Winter season at the Upper Mustang is quite cold, and there are high possibilities of heavy snow. Many teahouses during the Winter season shut down due to the extreme weather. Major areas like Lo Manthang and other high villages can be inaccessible, making trekking during this time quite difficult.

Book the Upper Mustang Trek

To book your Upper Mustang Trek, we request you to pay a 10% deposit of the total trip cost to confirm your booking. This is to help us arrange your accommodation, guides, permits, transportation, and other services in advance and confirm your seat at the table.

For the remaining amount, you can pay after your arrival, either in cash or with a credit card, before the start of your trek. After booking a trip, send us a copy of your passport and travel insurance.

To book a package, select the desired trek date on the calendar to the right of your screen and click the “Book Now“ option. You will then be taken to a page to fill out the rest of the details, such as contact information, number of travelers, extra services, and more. After filling out the details, press “Confirm Booking”. We will then receive an automatic email about your booking details and inquiry.

We’re excited to help you plan your trek and welcome you to our Access Nepal family!

Benefits of Booking Early with Access Nepal Tour and Trekking

Book the Upper Mustang Trek with Access Nepal Tour and Trekking early, and enjoy the many benefits of your trekking journey. We recommend you to book at least 6 to 12 months prior to the trek date to avoid any last-minute planning stress, ensure flight availability, and confirm your seat at the table for the Upper Mustang Trek.

Book the trek to Upper Mustang with us and make memories that last for a lifetime!

Here are some of the many benefits trekkers get to enjoy with early bookings:

• Guaranteed availability by securing your spot and avoiding last-minute booking hassle.
• Enjoy early booking discounts and offers.
• More time to prepare, plan, and train for your dream trek.
• Get the best rooms available and preferred accommodation.
• More flexibility in choosing the exact trek dates.
• More flexibility in customizing your trek itinerary and including special requests or upgrades.

Make your Upper Mustang Trek Special with Our Team

Celebrate your special moments like Birthdays, Anniversaries, or a Surprise proposal while taking on the Upper Mustang trek. Whether it’s exchanging wedding rings and proposing to your loved ones, celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, or any other accomplishments, our team at Access Nepal Tour and Trekking will help make your adventure more memorable with a surprise cake or any other personalized celebrations to deliver you a trek worth remembering for a lifetime.