Upper Mustang Trek is one of the most beautiful places to trek in Nepal, which lies in the Annapurna Trekking Region. You can enjoy magnificent views of many mountains.
You can experience ancient cultures, traditions of high-altitude places, and their down-to-earth way of living. For trekking in the Upper Mustang, you must have permits.

This trek takes you to an altitude of 3850 m. The route passes through Kali Gandaki River, leading to a beautiful place, Mustang. This place lies in the rainshadow area, making it possible to trek anytime throughout the year. Experience this great adventure in 14 days, walking 127 km.

Before you start your trekking, permits are mandatory to enter this region. You will need two permits to complete this trekking. The upper Mustang lies in the restricted area of Nepal. So, you need an Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit. It lies in the Annapurna Conservation area. That’s why you also need an Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit.

Let’s learn about the details of these permits, including the documents required and the price of the permits.

Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit

Upper Mustang comes under a restricted area of Nepal. So, you need a special permit called the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit. This permit is required due to security reasons for control of tourism.

This permit can be obtained only through the government-registered trekking agency of Nepal. The agency will apply for the online form on the immigration website for the restricted area permit with the provided documents and receive it from the Trekking Department of Nepal Immigration Office. It takes at least 2-3 hours to make this permit.

Cost

This permit costs 500 USD for the first 10 days and 50 USD per person for each additional day in the restricted area.

Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit

Upper Mustang is located in the Annapurna Region. So, an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit is needed to enter this valley. The budget is used for the welfare and protection of wildlife in the Annapurna Conservation Area.

You can apply for this permit in Kathmandu and Pokhara’s National Tourism Board office. You must complete a form with your details and attach the required documents for this permit. Getting this entry license takes only half an hour after the form is filled out.

The cost of this permit depends on your Nationality.

If you are from a SAARC country, it costs 1000 NRP per person.
If you are from a foreign country, then it costs 3000 NRP per person.

You have to pay in Nepali currency cash.

Required Documents for Upper Mustang Trek

  • Photocopy of passport
  • 1 passport-sized photograph
  • 1 scanned photograph for online form filled by agency
  • Travel insurance papers
  • Nepal tourist visa with a validity of at least 6 months

Terms and Conditions for Upper Mustang Trek

The permit fee is free for children under 10 years old.
The cost is nonrefundable and valid for single entry only.
Issue from designated office in Kathmandu, not from checkpoints of the trail.
You must carry it with you every time.
You cannot enter an area beyond permissions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Permits

How do you obtain permits for the Upper Mustang?

You can obtain a restricted area permit from a government-licensed agency, and for a conservation area permit, you can apply from the Tourism office in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Is a TIMS permit card necessary?

No, it is unnecessary, as the report’s required details are already mentioned in the restricted area permit.

Is a Guide necessary to trek the Upper Mustang?

Yes, you will need a licensed guide for the Upper Mustang trek because the trail is difficult to surpass.

Is a solo trek possible?

No, a solo trek is not possible. It is the rule of the government to have at least two trekkers in your group and a guide as well.

Conclusion

To conclude, Upper Mustang Trek will provide the best trekking experience. This trek takes you to a mysterious region like a mini Tibet. You also get to see the most religious temple of Mustang, Muktinath Temple, which gives peaceful, serene vibes.

You can experience this heart-wrenching journey with two permits. You can get these permits from an authorized government-registered local travel agency. All you have to do is provide them with the required documents. All the best!