2026/27 Route, Permit and Safety Updates
2026/27 route update. Upper Mustang is the high-desert landscape beyond Kagbeni, with the former walled capital of Lo Manthang, ancient monasteries and villages reflecting long-standing Tibetan cultural connections. Our 16-day Upper Mustang Trek currently starts at US$1,695 per person, with an illustrative approach from Jomsom through Kagbeni, Chele, Geling and Tsarang to Lo Manthang. This article remains a quick route overview; read the comprehensive Upper Mustang guide for more detailed cultural information.
Important permit correction: The Department of Immigration now publishes US$50 per foreign visitor per day for the specified Upper Mustang restricted-area wards. The historical US$500 minimum for the first ten days is outdated. Travelers still need the appropriate agency and entry arrangements. The former two-foreign-visitor minimum was relaxed in 2026, but do not interpret that as permission to disregard local guiding or protected-area rules.
Jomsom flight services are particularly sensitive to wind and weather. Jeep access northward along the Kali Gandaki is also affected by road repairs and seasonal damage. Your itinerary should specify whether it is a walking trek, a 4WD tour or a helicopter itinerary: each offers different time in Lo Manthang and different operational requirements.
| Stage | Route-planning note |
|---|---|
| Pokhara to Jomsom | Fly when flights operate, or use confirmed land transport |
| Kagbeni to Chele | Enter the restricted area with appropriate approvals |
| Geling and Tsarang | Village walking, monasteries, high-desert terrain |
| Lo Manthang | Allow adequate time for walking and respectful cultural visits |
| Return | Walking stages and road or flight connections depend on schedule |
Upper Mustang Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you through the hidden kingdom of Mustang. Located in the remote Annapurna region, this trek offers a unique opportunity to explore the ancient Tibetan culture and visit the former capital city of the Kingdom of Lo.
The trek starts from the town of Jomsom, which a short flight from Pokhara can reach. From Jomsom, the trail follows the Kali Gandaki River and passes through the villages of Kagbeni, Chele, Geling, and Tsarang. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit the ancient monasteries and caves that dot the landscape.
One of the highlights of the Upper Mustang Trek is a visit to the city of Lo Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Lo. This ancient city is still surrounded by its original walls and offers a glimpse into the rich history of the region. Here, you can visit the four major temples of the city, which are said to hold the remains of the kingdom’s past rulers.
The trek also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the Annapurna range and Dhaulagiri. As you go through the high-altitude desert of Mustang, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks.
To complete the Upper Mustang Trek, you will need to be in good physical shape and have some experience with high-altitude trekking. It is also important to properly acclimatize to the altitude before starting the trek.
The Upper Mustang Trek offers a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone looking to explore the hidden gems of Nepal. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, this trek is a must-do for any adventure seeker.
How difficult is the upper mustang trek?
The Upper Mustang Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek, depending on your level of fitness and experience. The trek involves long days of hiking at high altitudes and can be physically demanding. However, with proper preparation and acclimatization, most fit individuals should be able to complete the trek.
Another challenge of the Upper Mustang Trek is the remote location of the region. The trek passes through a high-altitude desert, and there are long stretches where you will not have access to basic amenities like food, water, and medical facilities. It is important to properly prepare and carry all the necessary supplies for the trek.
The Upper Mustang Trek is a challenging but rewarding trek that offers unique experiences and stunning views. With proper preparation and a positive attitude, anyone can enjoy this trek and make it to the end.
Upper Mustang Tour by Jeep
The Upper Mustang Trek can also be done by jeep, rather than on foot. This allows you to explore the region and visit the major attractions without having to do the physically demanding hike.
A jeep tour to Upper Mustang typically starts from the town of Jomsom, which a short flight from Pokhara can reach. From Jomsom, you will travel by jeep along the Kali Gandaki River and pass through the villages of Kagbeni, Chele, Geling, and Tsarang. Along the way, you can visit the ancient monasteries and caves, and learn about the rich history of the region.
The highlight of the jeep tour is a visit to the city of Lo Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Lo. Here, you can explore the ancient streets and visit the four major temples of the city.
A jeep tour to Upper Mustang is a great option for those who want to explore the region but are not able to do the trek on foot. It is also a good option for those who have limited time and want to see as much of the region as possible. However, it is important to note that the jeep trek does not offer the same level of immersion and adventure as the trek on foot.
upper mustang trekking route
The Upper Mustang Trek follows a well-defined route that takes you through the hidden kingdom of Mustang in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek starts from the town of Jomsom, which a short flight from Pokhara can reach. From Jomsom, the trail follows the Kali Gandaki River and passes through the villages of Kagbeni, Chele, Geling, and Tsarang. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit the ancient monasteries and caves that dot the landscape.
The trek then continues to the city of Lo Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Lo. Here, you can explore the ancient streets and visit the four major temples of the city. From Lo Manthang, the trail heads back to Jomsom, completing the loop.
The total length of the Upper Mustang Trek is approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles), and can be completed in 10 to 12 days. However, the exact length and duration of the trek may vary depending on your pace and the itinerary you choose.
Important Planning Questions
How many days should I allow for Upper Mustang?
Amigo’s current trek is listed as 16 days including Kathmandu and Pokhara logistics; shorter jeep arrangements are a different product.
Is the Upper Mustang permit US$500?
The current restricted-area permit is US$50 per person per day for eligible foreign visitors; confirm exact duration.
Can I visit Lo Manthang without trekking?
A separate jeep tour may be possible with the required permissions and current road access.
Is Upper Mustang dry in the monsoon?
It is rain-shadow terrain, but road damage and travel disruption elsewhere in Nepal may still affect access.
