TheUpper Mustang Trek Cost is higher than a lot of other treks in Nepal. However, you will realize that it is worth every penny once you get there.Upper Mustang is one of the popular destinations for trekking in Nepal. Unlike the more popular Everest and Annapurna, it is located in the rain shadow of the Himalayas. Upper Mustang is located far away in the northern part of Mustang District in Gandaki Province, Nepal. It is one of the most unique and preserved regions in the world. It is also known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom” because it was off-limits to international visitors until 1992. Only a small number of people trek there every year as compared to other popular routes.
Upper Mustang is not like other trekking routes with green forests and snow-capped peaks. It is a dry, windy land of rocky cliffs, red canyons, and open valleys. Compared to what most people think about Nepal, the scenery looks more like Tibet. This area was once part of the ancient Tibetan Kingdom and its influence is still seen today. There are centuries-old monasteries, whitewashed villages, and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
Lo Manthang, the capital of the region, is a walled city that resembles a living museum. It is serene and calm with various tales. You might meet people who still live in an age-old mountain community or see a monastery that is more than 600 years old. Every view causes you to pause and take another look, and every step feels like time travel.
Why Upper Mustang Trek Costs is Expensive then other trek?
The Upper Mustang Trek costs more because of government rules. Since it’s a restricted area, you require a special permit. It costs USD 500 for the first 10 days and USD 50 for each additional day. This helps towards the protection of culture and environment. It also limits the number of trekkers from overcrowding or damaging the area.
You cannot trek to Upper Mustang on your own. According to the government rules, you should go through a registered trekking agency and hire a licensed guide. This increases the cost but ensures that you will be guided by a local expert. They are familiar with the history, people, and the trails.
Just traveling to Upper Mustang is an adventure because it is from Kathmandu and Pokhara. Most people go to Jomsom, the trailhead of the trek, by jeep or airplane. Jeeps are more expensive and take longer through the rough road. Food and accommodation are also costly in this remote area that in the Annapurna or Everest regions. Everything must be transported by mule or truck from a great distance.
The Upper Mustang trek offers more than it takes. You won’t be thinking about how much you spent while passing through a quiet valley with red cliffs and ancient caves. You will be enjoying the incredible experience.
You will meet people who continue to live according to a centuries-old way of life. You may go to a yak herder’s house, have tea in a small village, or see a traditional Buddhist celebration. These moments are invaluable.
Some trekkers find this trek as a spiritual journey. It is spiritually calm with a space to reflect, breathe and connect deeply. It is more than just a trek. It offers a unique blend of culture, history, and nature.
Therefore, the Mustang Trek is more expensive than other Nepal treks. It also gives more such as stories, beauty, memories, and peace even after the trek is over. If you want something unique and unforgettable, Upper Mustang is well worth the visit.
Breakdown Cost for Upper Mustang Trek
Understand where your money is going while planning the Upper Mustang Trek. This trek is in the restricted region of Nepal offering stunning landscape and culture. High permit fees and certain rules apply to the trek. Here is the breakdown of all the major costs so that you can plan your budget wisely.
Permits cost for Upper Mustang Trek
The Upper Mustang Trek permit is issued by Government of Nepal,which require special Restricted Area Permit as the Mustang lies close to the Tibetan border and hold strategic and cultural significance. Solo traveler are not alowed to travel in this region.Trekkers must travel in a group of at least two through registered trekking agency. The Cost of Upper mustang trek permit is USD 500 Per person for first 10 days and for other additional USD 50 per day thereafter. Annapurna Conservation area permit is also mandatory. The aim to help preserve the unique Tibetan influenced culture and fragile environment of this region.
Restricted Area Permit
The Upper Mustang is a protected area which lies near the Tibetan border. The government of Nepal has made it a restricted trekking zone. The special permit is one of the biggest cost of this trek.
It costs USD 500 per person for 10 days. After 10 days, it costs USD 50 for each additional day. This permit is mandatory for entering Upper Mustang. You cannot get the permit on your own either. You must apply for it through a registered trekking agency.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
- ACAP is needed because Upper Mustang lies inside the Annapurna region.
- Cost for foreigners: NPR 3,000 (around USD 25)
- Cost for SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000
Trekking Agency Fees
Solo trekking is not allowed in Upper mustang. According to Nepali rules, your group should have at least two trekkers without including guides. Also, you should go with a registered trekking agency. This rule makes the trek more costly.
Most of the trekking packages for Upper Mustang include all required permits (ACAP, RAP), a certified trekking guide, porter to carry your bag, accommodation in guesthouses, three meals a day during the trek, transportation, trekking rental gear and sleeping bag.
Upper Mustang Trekking Package Cost
Prices for a 12-15 day trek with Nepal-based firms range from USD 1,700 to USD 2,500 per person.
Prices for the same trekking package with international agencies is between USD 2,800 and USD 4,000, depending on their service quality.
Trekking Companies in Nepal are more affordable and offer personalized services.
Guide and Porter Cost
During the trek, your guide is the main support. They support you in an emergency, handle your permits, show you the way, and explain local culture. Porters can be a huge help when it comes to carrying your bags.
Guide Cost: $30 - $35 USD per day including food, accommodation, and insurance.
Porter Cost: $20-$25 USD per day including lodging, food, and insurance.
A porter can carry up to 20-25 kg, often shared by two trekkers.
If you give tips to your guide and porter at the end of the trek, they will appreciate it.
Transportation Cost
Getting to the Upper Mustang region takes some work. Most trekkers start their journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then continue towards Jomsom, where the trek starts.
Options:
Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom (and back): $120 - $140 one way. It is the quickest and most scenic option. It depends on the weather. In case of cancellation, have an extra buffer day in your schedule.
Jeep from Jomsom to Pokhara: $50-$70 one way. The road can be bumpy and rough and take 10-12 hours each way.
Tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara: $10-$30. It is the cheapest option and takes around 6-7 hours.
Accommodation and Food
You will stay in simple tea houses run by local families while trekking to Upper Mustang. These places provide basic rooms and shared bathrooms. Due to lack of road and transportation, it gets more basic and costly as you go up.
Cost of accommodation: $5-$10 per night which is included in your package.
Cost of Food: $5-$8 for typical meal such as dal bhat. Compared to lower elevations, meals are more costly as you go higher. It could cost more for other options like momo, noodles, or snacks. You can bring snacks from Kathmandu which can be cheaper.
Gear and Equipment
Trekking gear can be purchased or rented, if this is your first high-altitude adventure.
Rentable gear:
There are a lot of rental stores in Thamel, Kathmandu. Renting can save money if you are trekking only once.
Sleeping bag: $1-$2 per day
Down Jacket: $1-$2 per day
Trekking poles, crampons: similar price
To Buy:
Trekking boots: $50-$150
Backpack: $40-$100
Hats, gloves, sunglasses, and thermal layers
Finally, the total estimated cost ranges from $1,800 to $3,200 depending on your preferences. Of course, the cost of the Upper Mustang trek is higher than most other treks in Nepal. It is well worth the money if you plan ahead and choose our agency, Nepal Trekking Routes for an affordable package.
Total Estimated Cost for Different Trekking Styles
Upper Mustang trek is one of the most unique trekking in Nepal. It is more costly than many others as it is a restricted area. You need to obtain special permits and travel with a licensed guide. The total cost of the trek also depends on your travel style. Let’s look at three types of trekking packages: Budget, standard, and luxury.
Budget Trekking Package:
A budget trekking package is an option if you wish to keep expenses down. Solo treks are not allowed. So, you should travel with a registered company while choosing the basic option.
Permits: $550 for 10 days
Guide and Porter: Give each group a single guide. This lowers expenses. The cost of a shared guide could be between $20 and $25.
Transport: Take a jeep ride to Jomsom rather than flying there. Although it takes longer, this saves money. A shared Jeep cost can be around $80 to $100 per person.
Food and lodging: Eat simple meals and stay in modest teahouses.
Trekking agency: Local companies offer budget group packages. The 12-day trek costs between $1,200 and $1,400. This is the cheapest way to trek Upper Mustang, but it still offers amazing views and culture.
Standard Trekking Package
Most trekkers choose a standard package. It offers proper planning, good service and comfortable journey.
Permits: $550 per person for 10 days
Guide and porter: Private guide and porter for a personal service. Guide costs about $25-$30 and porter costs $20-$25.
Transportation: Flights from Pokhara to Jomsom are easier and faster. The round trip flight can cost between $250 and $300 per person.
Accommodation and Food: Better teahouses with more food options. It costs $30-$40 each day. It is included in most standard trekking packages.
Trekking agency: A trusted company will handle everything from permits to planning. The price for 12-14 days package is $1,800 - $2,200.
You will feel more at ease with this package. It keeps things practical and cultural.
Luxury Trekking Package
A luxury trekking package is ideal if you want greater comfort, privacy, and flexibility.
Permits: $550 per person for 10 days.
Private Guide, porter, and possibly an assistant. The cost is included in the package.
Transportation: You may fly or even take a helicopter to Jomsom, which can cost up to $1,000 per person.
Accommodation and meals: The best teahouses with private rooms and attached bathrooms. Meals can be personalized.
Extras: Travel insurance, a satellite phone, food, extra acclimatization days, and cultural trips to Lo Manthang.
Trekking agency: Luxury trekking agencies offer full support and personalized service. The total cost may range from $3,000 to $5,000 or more.
Travelers who want a hassle free journey and great service will enjoy this package.
Each trekking package has its unique charm. Whatever your budget, the Upper Mustang Trek offers an unforgettable experience.
Hidden Costs on the Upper Mustang Trek
When organizing your Upper Mustang trek, you should know that your package might not cover some little but important expenses. The following are some typical additional expenses to consider:
Tips for Guides and Porters: Tipping is customary while trekking in Nepal. Many trekkers give a guide $5-$10 per day and a porter $3 to $7 per day. It is a way to thank them for their hard work.
Snacks and Drinks: Your meals may be covered, but tea or coffee in between meals, snacks, and bottled drinks are not. Because of transportation expenses, prices are higher in remote places like Upper Mustang.
Device Charging: Some tea shops take a fee for letting you charge your camera or phone. The price is $1-$3 per hour.
Wi-fi or Mobile Data: Internet access is limited and often not free with Wi-Fi or mobile data. If you want to stay connected, you can buy a local SIM with data.
Hot Showers: Not all teahouses include hot showers in the price. The cost of each shower may range $2-$5.
Emergency Costs: Always have extra cash on hand in case your flight is delayed. If you need to be evacuated by helicopter, it can be covered by travel insurance.
If you are ready for these small expenses, you can avoid surprises on the trail.
Tips to reduce the Upper Mustang Trek Costs
Trekking to Upper Mustang can be costly because it is a restricted area. However, there are clever methods to make the trip more affordable without missing out. Here are some helpful tips to help you save money on the Upper Mustang Trek:
Join a Group Trek
Trekking alone can be more expensive. You have to pay for permits, guide, and transportation. If you join a group, you can share costs like guide and porter wages and jeep rental. Group treks are organized by most trekking companies in Nepal during spring and fall. A group of 4 – 8 persons is perfect for sharing costs and having a great experience.
Choose a trekking company based in Nepal
It is more expensive to book with international travel agency. Local trekking companies in Nepal provide the same high-quality services at lower prices. They hire local guides who are more familiar with the area. This helps the local economy. Always make sure the company is registered and has positive ratings.
Travel during the Shoulder seasons
Upper Mustang trekking is popular in spring and fall. Prices are higher during the peak seasons. Due to rain shadow, you may visit during monsoon as it is dry in the region. You might be able to save money on flight, lodging, and trekking packages if you avoid peak season. The trails are less crowded and weather is pleasant.
Ride a Jeep rather than Fly
To begin the journey, many trekkers take flights from Pokhara to Jomsom. These flights can be costly and occasionally delayed by bad weather. Taking a shared jeep ride from Pokhara is less expensive. However, the ride takes longer and may be bumpier. You can save money and still enjoy the views if you choose one way flight and a jeep the other way.
Keep your Itinerary short and simple
The cost of food, accommodation, guide and porter increases with the number of days on the trek. Lo Manthang is one of the main highlights of 12 days Upper Mustang Trek. Avoid adding too many side trips or rest days unless essential. To avoid unforeseen costs, plan your itinerary in advance with our agency, Nepal Trekking Routes.
Rent Trekking Gear rather than buying
It can be expensive to buy trekking poles, sleeping bags, and jackets. You can rent all the trekking gear in Kathmandu or Pokhara at a reduced cost. Make a list of your needs and only rent what you really need.
Bring your own water purifier and snacks
Food and bottled water are costly in remote areas like Upper Mustang. Bring dry fruits, energy bars, and instant noodles from Kathmandu. Avoid buying plastic water bottles by carrying your own reusable water bottle and water purification tablet or filter.
Avoid unnecessary Extras
Teahouses don’t provide free Wi-fi, hot showers, or charging electronics. Use Wi-Fi only when needed, bring a power bank, and limit device use. These little expenses add up over many days.
The Upper Mustang Trek will not be costly if you prepare carefully. You may enjoy this journey while staying within your budget. You can choose a local trekking agency, join a group, and be aware of your spending on the trail.
Conclusion
Upper Mustang Trek offers a truly unique experience, so it is more expensive than other treks in Nepal. The cost is high due to special permit requirements, transportation, guide, and remote location. Still, many trekkers think it’s well worth the investment. You can see Tibetan-influenced cultures, ancient villages, and breathtaking scenery. You can effectively manage your budget if you plan ahead and choose the right trekking company. The memories from Upper Mustang will last a lifetime. It is a unique experience whether you travel on a budget or spend generously.
