Upper Mustang Trek Cost is the most fundamental question searched by people. Now, we are clearing about this. Depending on the services and itinerary, the cost of the trek ranges from USD 1500 to USD 3500 per person.

Booking through a local agency is less expensive. When you reserve a full board package, the cost includes many amenities and services, including lodging, transportation, meals, and more.

The price of trekking varies according to where you start and how you get there. If you purchase the packages in bulk, it might be a little less expensive for you. 

You can also choose the Private Upper Mustang Trek if you want to spend your time in luxury, but the upper mustang trek cost is quite expensive.

All About -Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang Trek to Mustang’s hidden paradise is a fantastic tour that visitors experience as their best holiday trip in Nepal. Upper Mustang is described as a mysterious valley and Nepal’s last forbidden kingdom. The Upper Mustang landscape is similar to the Tibetan plateau, with its endless expanses of yellow and gray rolling hills eroded by the wind.

The trek to Upper Mustang takes you through a treeless and barren landscape, with a rocky trail up and down the hill passing through high peaks, passes, glaciers, and alpine valleys that provide a very distinct and unique experience for everyone.

Trekking to Mustang allows travelers to see the heavenly beautiful Trans-Himalaya landscape, ancient Tibetan Buddhist shrines such as Stupas, Chhortens, Kaanis, Prayer walls, centuries-old monasteries, and interact with Tibetan people, making the trip one of a lifetime.

Note: Book the Offer package of Upper Mustang Trek.

Highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek:

1. Explore King Lo’s historical Royal Palace at Lo Manthang.

2. The Upper Mustang’s mountainous desert landscape is matched by patches of lush greenery.

3. There is no need to be concerned about the rain because the upper Mustang region is located in the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges’ rain shadow.

4. A chance to catch a glimpse of the local people’s culture and traditions, which are heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism.

5. Beautiful views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, colorful barren hills, swinging fields of barley, etc.

How to Get There?

There are several ways to get to Upper Mustang from Kathmandu. You can choose between an overland tour, a flight, walking, or a combination of all three. In any case, you can choose different modes of transportation based on your time, preferences, and budget. Upper Mustang can be reached in three ways, as detailed below:

1. Jeep from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Upper Mustang

Overland tours from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then to Upper Mustang are available. The overland tour is done in a jeep and takes about eight days. It is one of the simplest and shortest options. Views of the plateaus and mountains can be seen from the comfort of the four-wheeler. It is best suited for adults with limited time and physical fitness to complete the entire trek.

The only disadvantage is that you will spend the majority of the day inside the Jeep, not getting out much to walk on the dusty roads and interact with the locals. Furthermore, rides in 4WD jeeps are costly.

2. Flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then drive to Upper Mustang

Another option is to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then to Jomsom, and then drive to Upper Mustang. It is yet another pricey but comfortable option. The flights are more expensive than taking a jeep ride, but they are much shorter in duration.

After arriving in Jomsom, the drive to Upper Mustang is both pleasant and interesting. It is designed for tourists with limited time, a tight budget, and a desire for maximum comfort and luxury. Furthermore, all of your flights will provide you with a bird’s-eye view of the mountain ranges.

3. Flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then trek to Upper Mustang.

This is your best option if you’re looking for a balance between comfort, adventure, and completing the tour quickly. The flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara will only take 30 minutes, compared to the additional 20 minutes required for the flight to Jomsom. It means that you can fly from Kathmandu to Mustang in less than a day.

The real adventure starts when you walk from Jomsom to the historic Lo Manthang. The trek stretches your muscles, introduces you to the surroundings, provides breathtaking mountain views, and gives you a chance to mingle with the locals and learn about their customs.

The perspectives and knowledge gained on the journey to Upper Mustang are different from those gained during the flights. Therefore, this option is the ideal combination of all the experiences.

Best time to visit Upper Mustang Trek: Weather and Seasons

Upper Mustang is located in the Himalayan rain shadow, making it a great monsoon trek that is open throughout the year. This trek is best done between mid-February and late November. Due to the extreme cold and heavy snowfalls in December and January, trekking is impossible.

The Tiji Monsoon Festival is also highly recommended. The festival is sure to be one of the Upper Mustang’s most memorable treks.

Many places in Nepal are best visited and trekked during the pre-monsoon / spring season (March to May) and post-monsoon / autumn season (October to November). However, unlike many other destinations in Nepal, Upper Mustang is the best during the Tiji festival.

It has a breathtakingly beautiful location that transports you to another world. In every corner, you can find a different culture, tradition, language, lifestyle, and natural diversity. 

Upper Mustang Trek Difficulty -Is it possible?

The Upper Mustang Trek Difficulty is classified as a moderate-difficulty trek. This trek is a fantastic adventure for explorers because it offers spectacular mountain views and breathtaking scenery. It has a vast culture that has not been altered by modernization.

The trail leads to the Trans-Himalayan region. The Upper Mustang trek offers an exciting itinerary that includes spectacular trekking through the amazing desert with colorful rock formations, deep ravines, and snow-capped peaks all around you.

The trail is a combination of paved and unpaved paths that occasionally cross small rivers. Overall, the journey follows a path of rolling hills. Even though it is a simple path, the Upper Mustang Trek retains its difficulty factors due to its high altitude.

All Upper Mustang Trek Cost

Upper mustang trek-Permits and Requirements

Because the Upper Mustang Trek is a restricted area, it is subject to additional regulations and permit fees. A restricted area permit, or ACAP Permit, must be obtained. Individual trekkers are not permitted, and Naples’ government only allows permits to be issued through registered businesses.

Cost of a Restricted Area Permit

For ten days, a Restricted Area permit costs USD 500 per person. After that, you will need to pay USD 50 per person per day if you stay in this area for an extended period. Keeping the area protected and reducing the number of hikers who visit is expensive. Additionally, a guide and a porter are not thought to be at least two trekkers for the purposes of this permit.

Cost of  Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

Since a portion of the trek is within the Annapurna Conservation Area, you will also need to obtain an ACAP in addition to the special permit. Each person must pay USD 30 (NPR 3000) for this permit.

The permit has unlimited days but is only good for one use. You are only permitted one entry and exit, and it cannot be shared.

Upper Mustang Trek Cost of Transportation

You can either travel slowly and cheaply or quickly and expensively to get to Upper Mustang. Your time and financial constraints will determine the mode of transportation you use to get to Upper Mustang.

If time is of the essence, you can turn the entire journey into an adventure in and of itself. If not, you can travel more quickly. The journey starts in Kathmandu and continues through Pokhara and Jomsom.

A. Transportation from Kathmandu – Pokhara

To get to Pokhara from Kathmandu, there are several options, including public or tourist buses, daily flights, and private jeeps or cars.

1. Tourist Buses

Daily flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara are available. However, keep in mind that it may be delayed due to inclement weather during the monsoon and winter. The flight takes about 15 to 20 minutes, so you can leave early and relax by the lake. The total cost of the flight is approximately USD 121.

2. Buses

The bus ride takes about 7 to 8 hours, so take the first one to get there faster. Public buses cost approximately USD 8 to 9 per person, while tourist buses cost approximately USD 15 to 25 per person. Every day, numerous public and tourist buses travel to Pokhara. If you are on a tight budget, public transportation is an excellent option. However, if you want to travel in comfort and luxury, the tourist bus is the way to go.

3. Private jeep/ car

If you are traveling in a small group or a small car, you can also hire a private car or jeep. A car is an excellent mode of transportation for two to four people, while a jeep is ideal for six to seven people. The travel time is comparable to that of a bus, but you can start and stop at any point you want. A car costs approximately USD 100, while a jeep costs approximately USD 120.

B. Transportation from Pokhara – Jomsom

To get to Pokhara from Jomsom, you can take one of three modes of transportation: a flight, a local bus, or a jeep. Flights are much faster and safer, but they are more expensive than the other two options.

1.  Flight

Flights from Pokhara to Jomsom are only available in the early mornings. It’s because the winds are strong in the afternoon, making flying difficult. The flight takes about 20 minutes and costs about USD 125 one way.

2. Local Bus

The road to Jomsom is rough and off-trail, so you must take a local bus. The local driver has years of experience driving on these trails; new or inexperienced road drivers cannot. The journey takes approximately 8 to 10 hours and costs approximately USD 15.

3. Jeep Costs

If you dislike crowded vehicles, you can hire a private jeep to get to Jomsom. They are much faster than the bus. The drive to Jomsom takes about 6 to 7 hours and costs about USD 30 to 40 per person.

Local Trekking Staff Cost 

Upper Mustang is a restricted area for trekking in Nepal. The government of Nepal strictly prohibits solo trekking in areas such as Upper Mustang. You will have to travel with one or more other people as well as local trekking staff. Hiring a guide costs and offers similar benefits to treks to Lower Mustang. They are available for hire for USD 35 per day. 

You will have to travel with one or more other people as well as local trekking staff. Hiring a guide costs and offers similar benefits to treks to Lower Mustang. They are available for hire for USD 35 per day. If you don’t think a guide is the best option for you, you can hire a porter or a porter-guide for your Upper Mustang Trek. Hiring a porter costs USD 30 per day. A porter will assist you with your luggage. A porter will transport your luggage up to 20kg. It can also reduce the upper mustang trek cost.

For your Upper Mustang Trek, you can hire a porter or a porter-guide if a guide doesn’t seem like the best option for you. A porter will set you back USD 30 per day. Your luggage will be carried by a porter. Your luggage up to 20 kg will be carried by a porter.

Costs of Meal

A very basic menu will be offered at the majority of the tea houses, cafes, restaurants, and lodges in the area. Typically, this menu includes Dal, Bhat, and Tarkari, which are regional favorites. Steamed rice, lentil soup, and fresh seasonal vegetables make up this dish.

A variety of noodle dishes, fried rice, and dumplings are also offered. Some of the more upscale lodges have menus that feature Indian, Tibetan, Continental, and Italian cuisine. Basic meals can cost between US$3 and US$5. You might be required to pay more if you choose from the more upscale menu.

Insurance Cost 

When visiting the Himalayan or high altitudes, insurance is a requirement. Making insurance that includes all the necessary specifications is a must because nothing can be predicted during the trek.

They should be able to conduct rescue operations and emergency rescues. Additionally, they must pay for your medical bills. The insurance may cost as little as $5,000.

Cost of Supplies, Clothing, and Equipment

Having the appropriate gear, clothing, and supplies is crucial for a comfortable and secure trek when going to Nepal. Depending on the season you choose to trek, you may need to pack different items for your Upper and Lower Mustang trek.

Having the appropriate gear, clothing, and supplies is crucial for a comfortable and secure trek when going to Nepal. Depending on the season you choose to trek, you may need to pack different items for your Upper and Lower Mustang trek.

Depending on what you already own and the level of talent of the product you decide to purchase, the cost of your equipment, clothing, and supplies will differ. You can also choose to rent your clothing and equipment in Pokhara and Kathmandu.

Costs of Drinks 

Both the treks to Lower and Upper Mustang offer a limited selection of drinks. Here are some options for drinks along with their prices:

Cup of Tea: USD 1.5-4

Cup of Coffee: USD 2-4

Bottle of beer: USD 2-5

Bottle of water/soda: USD 0.5-4

You can refill your reusable bottles instead of purchasing bottled water. This saves money and is better for the environment. Bring water-purifying tabs, gels, and steripens for these.

How to reduce upper mustang trek cost?

Exploring the beautiful and remote Upper Mustang region of Nepal can be an expensive undertaking, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. With careful planning and research, you can significantly reduce the upper mustang trek price and still have a wonderful experience. In this blog post, we will discuss various tips and tricks that can help you save money on your Upper Mustang Trek cost.

1. To save money on food and drinks, it is always a good idea to carry some tea bags with you.

2. You can take this trek almost all year round because it is in a rain shadow area. So look for discounts and take advantage of the savings.

3. For water on the go, a water bottle with water filters is essential.

4. Tipping is optional, and only 10% of the total is considered appropriate.

5. Renting trekking gear is yet another wise choice.

6. Booking in advance or on the offer of the upper mustang trek can reduce the upper mustang trek price.

7. Choose to trek with the group on the upper mustang trek.

8. Doing some research can reduce the upper mustang trek price.

So, you can save the upper mustang trek cost by following these tips while you are traveling.

Itinerary of Upper Mustang Trek

We will follow this itinerary as closely as we can, but it is merely a guide. However, for your own safety, your guide may decide to modify or omit the schedule in response to bad weather, health issues, natural disasters, or other unpleasant events. Anytime you need assistance, your guide will be there to provide details about the safety and conditions of the trek.

Day 1:  ARRIVAL AT TRIBHUVAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, KATHMANDU

Day 2:  FREE DAY IN KATHMANDU & PERMIT ARRANGEMENT

Day 3:  KATHMANDU TO POKHARA BY BUS/CAR

Day 4:  FLY FROM POKHARA TO JOMSOM, TREK TO KAGBENI (2780M, 3-4 HRS WALK)

Day 5:  KAGBENI TO CHALE (3050M 4-5 HRS WALK)

Day 6: CHALE TO SYANGBOCHE (3480M, 6-7 HRS WALK)

Day 7: SYANGBOCHE TO GHAMI (3520M, 5-6 HRS WALK)

Day 8: GHAMI TO CHARANG (3600M, 4-5 HRS WALK)

Day 9: CHARANG TO LOMANTHANG (3700M, 5-6 HRS WALK)

Day 10: TREK TO JHOSER CAVE

Day 11:  VISIT MONASTERY

Day 12: DRIVE LOMANTHANG TO JOMSOM 

Day 13: JOMSOM TO POKHARA

Day 14: POKHARA TO KATHMANDU

Day 15: DEPARTURE TO RESPECTIVE DESTINATION

Final Words:

The Upper Mustang Trek Cost is not as expensive as you might think, but most hikers are put off by the cost of a permit. However, the isolation from the rest of the nation has allowed them to preserve their strong ethical heritage.

The tranquility and isolation of the area make the cost entirely worthwhile. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, the Upper Mustang Trek is definitely worth the cost. Every year, more hikers come to Mustang to enjoy its unspoiled natural beauty and unique culture. Therefore, we strongly urge you to visit Mustang and partake in an experience unlike any other. Please don’t be afraid to contact us.