How to Travel to Mustang in Nepal?

Mustang is a high, dry valley in northern Nepal, on the Tibetan border. It has red cliffs, a walled capital and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. Most people get there by flying Kathmandu → Pokhara → Jomsom, then going north by jeep or on foot.

Lower Mustang (Jomsom, Marpha, Muktinath) needs an ACAP permit. Upper Mustang, beyond Kagbeni, also needs a Restricted Area Permit (US$50 per person per day) and a licensed guide, booked through a registered agency. Since March 22, 2026, solo travellers can hold the permit in their own name.

This guide covers the routes, permits and guides, cost, best season and practical information on how to travel Mustang. We’ve run Mustang trips since 2005, and where the rules have changed, we say so.

What Is Mustang?

Mustang is a district in northern Nepal, on the Tibetan border. It has two parts, and they make very different trips.

Lower Mustang is the southern part, around Jomsom, Marpha and Muktinath. The culture blends Tibetan and Nepali influences, and Muktinath is a pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is easy to reach. Lower Mustang is part of the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you need an ACAP permit.

Upper Mustang begins north of Kagbeni. It was the independent Kingdom of Lo, a Tibetan-speaking kingdom on the old salt trade route between Tibet and Nepal. Its capital, Lo Manthang, was founded in 1380 and is still enclosed by a mud-brick wall. Most people there speak a Tibetan dialect and follow Tibetan Buddhism. Foreigners were not allowed in until 1992, and it is still a restricted area, so you need a permit and a licensed guide.

Roads and some development have reached Upper Mustang, but the monasteries, villages and festivals are still Tibetan in character.

The next section puts the two side by side so you can decide.

Lower Mustang vs Upper Mustang Comparison

Lower and Upper Mustang are different trips. They differ in permits, effort, comfort and what you see.

Lower Mustang is the easier trip. You walk through villages like Marpha, known for its apple orchards, and visit Muktinath, where Hindus and Buddhists pray at the same temple. At the end of the day, you can watch the sunset over the Kali Gandaki Gorge, often described as one of the deepest in the world. Jomsom sits at about 2,800 m, so the first days also help you get used to altitude.

Explore Lower Mustang tour options, learn about longer Upper Mustang journeys or understand the differences between Upper and Lower Mustang.

Upper Mustang is remote and restricted. The trip takes more days, and facilities are simpler, but you reach places few travellers go. Lo Manthang, founded in 1380, is still enclosed by a wall, with 15th-century monasteries inside and the Chhoser caves cut into the cliffs nearby. You can walk for hours without meeting other trekkers.

Discover Upper Mustang by trekking or see it on a jeep tour, a shorter and less strenuous option.

Lower Mustang vs Upper Mustang at a Glance

Want the full breakdown? Read our complete Lower Mustang vs Upper Mustang comparison.

How to Get to Mustang?

There are three ways to reach Mustang: fly to Jomsom, drive from Pokhara, or take a helicopter. Almost every trip starts in Pokhara, because there are no direct flights from Kathmandu to Jomsom. So the real choice is how you cover the last stretch from Pokhara.

Route 1: Fly to Jomsom (Fastest)

Most travellers fly. Kathmandu to Pokhara takes about 25 minutes by air, or 6 to 8 hours by road. From Pokhara, a flight of about 25 minutes takes you to Jomsom. The flight passes through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, often called one of the deepest in the world, and on clear days you see Annapurna and Dhaulagiri on either side. The runway at Jomsom is short and sits in a narrow valley.

The wind is the reason flights leave early, usually between 6 and 9 a.m. By late morning, it is too strong to land safely. For this reason, plan to spend the night before in Pokhara, and do not try to connect from a Kathmandu flight the same morning.

Cost: US$ 180 one way

Weather risk: high. Wind closures happen, and flights are cancelled or delayed, so add one buffer day to your itinerary. Airlines have also paused the Pokhara to Jomsom service for several months during the monsoon in recent years, so check current schedules before you book.

Why we like it: it is fast and scenic, and it puts you in Jomsom by mid-morning. That leaves the rest of the day to drive to Kagbeni, where the Upper Mustang restricted area begins, or to get used to the altitude. 

From Jomsom, you can trek or hire a jeep to Kagbeni, or take a jeep straight on to Lo Manthang, usually with overnight stops on the way.

Here’s the guide for how to reach Mustang from Kathmandu.

Route 2: Drive from Pokhara (Most Scenic)

The drive from Pokhara to Jomsom takes about 7 to 9 hours, depending on road conditions and stops. The road follows the Kali Gandaki valley, the old salt trade route between Tibet and Nepal. From Pokhara, you pass through Beni, Tatopani, Ghasa, Marpha and Jomsom, and Kagbeni is the last stop. Marpha is known for its apples and cider.

Much of the road is now blacktopped, including the 13 km from Jomsom to Kagbeni, and several sections between Beni and Jomsom have been upgraded. Other parts are still rough, and landslides can close the road at any time of year, especially in the monsoon. Beyond Kagbeni, jeeps continue to Lo Manthang on a mostly unpaved road.

Cost: US$100 to 250 per day, depending on the vehicle.

Why choose it: you can stop where you like and break the trip into days, so you see the valley at ground level. Some riders also do the route by motorcycle. It takes skill because of strong winds and gravel sections, and the same permits and licensed guide are required beyond Kagbeni.

Experience Mustang by jeep and road for maximum flexibility.

If time matters more than the journey, there is a third option.

Route 3: Helicopter (Premium)

Helicopters fly from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Lo Manthang, usually stopping at Jomsom on the way. They fly only in clear weather. A private charter from Pokhara costs about US$4,000. Also, the Restricted Area Permit still applies.

For most travellers, Route 1 or Route 2 is the better choice, because the road or trek lets your body adjust to the altitude. A helicopter takes you from low altitude to about 3,840 m in a few hours, so altitude sickness is a real risk.

If you are considering it, ask us about acclimatisation before you book.

Best Time to Travel to Mustang

The best time to visit Mustang depends on what you want from the trip: the clearest weather, a festival, fewer people or a lower price. Here is how the seasons compare, starting with the most popular.

Autumn (September to November) is the standard choice. Skies are clear, the weather is stable, and the apple harvest in Marpha runs from late September into October. It is also peak season, so expect more trekkers, more jeep groups and higher lodge prices. To avoid the rush, we run departures at the edges of the season, in early September and late November, and keep groups small. Nights are colder in late November, so pack for it.

Spring (March to May) is the next best option. The weather warms up, and the peaks are clear. Spring is also when the Tiji Festival is usually held in Lo Manthang. Tiji is a three-day festival of masked dances performed by the monks of Choede Monastery, and it marks the victory of good over evil. The alleys fill with pilgrims, monks and local families in traditional dress. It follows the Tibetan lunar calendar, so the dates move each year. 

In 2026, it was held from 14 to 16 May, and in 2027 it is expected to be held from 1 to 3 June, to be confirmed by the monastery. Lodging in Lo Manthang is limited during the festival, so book early. 

Book your Tiji Festival trek

If autumn and spring don’t fit your dates, summer (June to August) is still a good time for Upper Mustang, even though it is monsoon season in the rest of Nepal. Upper Mustang sits in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, so it stays mostly dry, and there are fewer trekkers on the trails. 

The problem is getting there, not the trek itself. The Pokhara to Jomsom route gets monsoon rain, flights to Jomsom are often cancelled, and landslides can close the road. Add at least one extra day to your plan to allow for delays. For more on what to expect, see our guide to Mustang in June and July.

In August, the Yartung Festival takes place around the full moon, in Lo Manthang and around Muktinath. It has horse races, archery and dancing, and it begins with prayers at the local monastery.

Best Seasons to go to Mustang Summary

What are the Permits Needed for Mustang Travel?

The permits you need for Mustang depend on where you plan to travel and whether you are trekking or travelling by road.

Lower Mustang requires an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). If you are trekking through the region, you also need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card.

Upper Mustang requires an ACAP and a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). If you are trekking, a TIMS Card is also required under the applicable trekking rules. You must travel with a licensed guide and arrange the restricted-area permit before entering Upper Mustang.

Mustang Permit Costs

The RAP applies to Upper Mustang, not Lower Mustang. Your total permit cost therefore depends on your route and the number of days covered by your restricted-area permit.

How to Arrange Mustang Permits

At Himalayan Scenery Treks, we help arrange the required permits before your journey.

For Lower Mustang, we can organise the necessary conservation-area permit and TIMS Card if your itinerary requires one.

For Upper Mustang, we prepare the application in advance and process the RAP as soon as you arrive in Nepal. The application requires your passport number and Nepal visa number, which are available after you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Once we receive these details and confirm your guide information, the permit is normally processed within 24 hours.

If you are travelling to Upper Mustang, send us your passport and visa details as soon as you land in Nepal. This allows us to begin the application promptly and helps avoid delays to your itinerary.

For more information about restricted-area permit arrangements and solo-travel requirements, see our Upper Mustang permit guide.

Solo Travel Rule in Upper Mustang

Until March 2026, the Department of Immigration required at least two foreign travellers to apply together for an Upper Mustang permit. Many older guides still say this, but it is outdated information.

On March 22, 2026, that rule was removed. A single traveller can now get the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) in their own name. But only through a licensed trekking agency. Also, any restricted permit in Nepal can be issued only after your arrival in Nepal.

What you still need:

• A licensed guide for the whole trip beyond Kagbeni

• A booking through a registered trekking agency, because individuals cannot apply for the RAP directly

• The RAP, at US$50 per person per day

“Solo” means one traveller on the permit. You still walk or travel with a guide.

What it means for you: If you were told you can’t go to Upper Mustang on your own, that advice is now outdated.

Cost: The RAP is per person, so it costs the same as in a group. The guide and vehicle are not shared, so the price per person is higher than on a group trip.

Why some people choose it: You set your own pace, and your guide’s attention is on you, not on a group.

For full details, see our guides to solo Upper Mustang trekking and the Mustang permit guide.

Solo Upper Mustang treks are now fully available

Sample Mustang Itineraries: What's Actually Possible

These aren't rigid. We adjust based on your pace, weather, and what calls you.

Upper Mustang Trek: 10 Days (The Full Experience)

This is the classic route. You trek through villages that tourists rarely see. You visit ancient monasteries. You end at Lo Manthang, the walled city.

Day 1: Arrive in Jomsom by flight or drive. Trek to Kagbeni (2.3 hours). First taste of Mustang culture. Overnight in Kagbeni.

Day 2: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (4 hours). Cross the Kali Gandaki River. Overnight Chele.

Day 3: Trek from Chele to Geling (5 hours). Enter the red-cliffed desert landscape. Overnight Geling.

Day 4: Trek from Geling to Charang (4 hours). Visit Charang Gompa (ancient monastery). Overnight in Charang.

Day 5: Trek from Charang to Lo Pass and Lo Manthang (6 hours). Arrive at the walled city at a high altitude. Overnight in Lo Manthang.

Day 6: Full day in Lo Manthang. Visit Thubchen, Jampa, and other monasteries. Explore the walled city. Sit with monks if possible. Overnight in Lo Manthang.

Day 7: Trek from Lo Manthang to Namgyal Village (3 hours). Visit Milarepa Caves. Overnight in Namgyal.

Day 8: Trek from Namgyal to Ghar Gompa, then Dakmar (5 hours). Visit ancient caves and monasteries. Overnight in Ghami or Dakmar.

Day 9: Trek from Ghami to Chele (reverse of Day 2). Overnight in Chele.

Day 10: Trek from Chele to Kagbeni, then fly/drive back to Pokhara.

What you experience: The full Upper Mustang circuit. Every major village. Multiple ancient monasteries. The walled city. Tibetan culture unfiltered.

Physical demand: Moderate. Altitude is the main challenge (Lo Pass: 3,980m, Lo Manthang: 3,840m).

Best for: Serious trekkers wanting the full experience.  

See the full 10-day Upper Mustang trek itinerary and book for the complete circuit experience.

Upper Mustang Jeep Tour: 7 Days (The Comfort Route)

Jeep tours follow the same trans-Himalayan highway that connects Nepal to Tibet. You hit the main sites without trekking every day.

Day 1: Arrive in Jomsom. Drive to Marpha (1 hour), explore apple orchards. Overnight in Marpha.

Day 2: Drive from Marpha to Kagbeni (1 hour). Visit the village. Overnight in Kagbeni.

Day 3: Drive from Kagbeni to Ghami (3 hours through high passes). Visit Ghami village and gompa. Overnight in Ghami.

Day 4: Drive from Ghami to Tsarang (3 hours). Visit Sky Caves and Tsarang Gompa. Overnight in Tsarang.

Day 5: Drive from Tsarang to Lo Manthang (3 hours). Full day exploring the walled city, monasteries, and the local market. Overnight in Lo Manthang.

Day 6: Drive from Lo Manthang to Kagbeni (via Muktinath). Visit a sacred Hindu-Buddhist pilgrimage site. Overnight in Kagbeni or Marpha.

Day 7: Return to Pokhara by flight or drive.

What you experience: The main Upper Mustang sites. Tibetan villages. Monasteries. Sky caves. Walled city. Physical comfort (jeeps, not tents).

Physical demand: Minimal. You're driving, making short walks to sites.

Best for: Families, older travellers, anyone wanting to see Mustang without high-altitude trekking. 

Book the 7-day Mustang jeep tour for a balance of comfort and authentic sites.

Lower Mustang Tour: 4 Days (The Accessible Path)

Lower Mustang is easier to access and doesn't require the complex permit system.

Day 1: Arrive in Jomsom by flight or drive. Explore Marpha (apple orchards, cider, local life). Overnight in Marpha.

Day 2: Drive to Muktinath (a sacred Hindu-Buddhist pilgrimage site with natural gas flames). Visit an ancient temple. Overnight in Jomsom or Marpha.

Day 3: Trek or drive to ancient villages (Jharkot, Jhong). Visit caves and old settlements. Return to Marpha or Jomsom. Optional: Visit Dhumba Lake. Overnight.

Day 4: Return to Pokhara by flight or drive.

What you experience: Sacred sites. Local culture. Mountain beauty. No extreme altitude.

Physical demand: Minimal to easy.

Best for: First-time visitors, families, short-trip travellers.

Book the Lower Mustang tour — perfect for first-time visitors and shorter trips.

Practical Information for Mustang Travel 

Let's be real. Mustang might not be easy for everybody, and here's how we want you to be prepared:

What to Pack

• Layers (temperature swings are dramatic)

• Warm jacket (essential at altitude)

• Rain gear (afternoon clouds can move fast)

• Trekking poles (helpful for knees on descents)

• Good boots (worn in, not new)

• Sleeping bag (we recommend; lodges provide blankets, but high altitude gets cold)

• Sunscreen and sunglasses (intense sun at altitude)

• Medications (pharmacy access is limited)

• Camera (you'll want to capture this)

• Journal (you'll want to process this)

Money & Logistics

• ATM access: Only in Pokhara/Kathmandu. Bring cash to Mustang (lodges take Nepali rupees or dollars)

• Phone signal: Limited above Kagbeni. Plan accordingly.

• What's included in our costs: Guide, permits (RAP + ACAP), lodge accommodation, guide meals, logistics

• What's not: Flights, meals (though we can arrange), activities beyond the itinerary

Altitude Awareness

Mustang goes high. Lo Manthang sits at 3,840m. Lo Pass reaches 3,980m. That's thin air.

Symptoms of altitude sickness: Headache, nausea, shortness of breath, fatigue.

Prevention: Arrive in Kathmandu a day before departing for Mustang. Give your body time to adjust. Drink water constantly. Move slowly.

Our approach: We monitor you daily. If altitude sickness appears, we adjust. Sometimes that means descending. Sometimes it means spending an extra day at elevation to acclimatise. We listen to your body.

Best Seasons Summary

FAQs

Q: Can I trek Upper Mustang solo?

A: As of 2026, yes. You need a guide and permits, but the solo traveller restriction has been lifted. Solo treks + a guide are powerful experiences.

Q: What if I have altitude sickness?

A: We descend and acclimatise. Mustang isn't worth your health. We listen to your body.

Q: Do I need previous trekking experience?

A: For jeep tours, no. For trekking, some experience helps, but it's not required if you're fit and prepared.

Q: Can I visit during the Tiji Festival?

A: Yes, and you should if possible. May-June is magical. Festival pilgrims + monks + ceremonies + foreigners = unique spiritual gathering. Book early.

Q: How physical is the Mustang trek?

A: Moderate. It's not technical or extreme. It's sustained hiking at altitude. Fitness matters. Determination matters more.

Q: What if the flight is cancelled?

A: We have contingency plans. Extra days budgeted. Alternative routes. It's why we start from Pokhara (never direct from Kathmandu).

Q: Are guides trained properly?

A: Yes. Our guides are licensed, experienced, and briefed specifically for you weeks in advance. Most have 5+ years of Mustang experience.

Before You Book

Mustang offers more than one way to travel. You can explore Lower Mustang by road, stay at a luxury lodge, trek between villages, or travel deeper into Upper Mustang to discover its historic settlements and Tibetan Buddhist heritage. Your experience depends on the route you choose, the time you have, and the places you want to see.

Things to consider before booking:

• Accommodation: Mustang has options for different travel styles and budgets. Shinta Mani Mustang in Lower Mustang offers a high-end luxury experience, while other parts of the region have comfortable lodges, local guesthouses, and simpler accommodation. Options become more limited in remote areas of Upper Mustang, so choose your itinerary with accommodation in mind.

• Road travel: Journeys can be long, and some roads are rough, particularly beyond Jomsom. Allow enough time for travel and possible changes to plans.

• Altitude: Some parts of Mustang are above 3,000 metres. Plan your itinerary carefully and allow time to adjust to the altitude.

• Season: The best time to visit depends on your route and interests. Weather, road conditions, and trekking conditions vary throughout the year.

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