Upper Mustang Jeep Tour - 14 Days

The Rhythm of the Mountains: Best Seasons for Upper Mustang Jeep Tour

• Spring (March-May) & Autumn (September-October): Stable weather, moderate temperatures, and clear skies for optimal mountain views.
• The Monsoon Advantage (June-August): Upper Mustang lies in the Himalayan rain shadow. This makes it an excellent destination during the monsoon months when other regions are inaccessible. This period also often coincides with major cultural events like the Tiji Festival (typically in May), a vibrant, multi-day Buddhist ritual in Lo Manthang.

Forging Your Strength: Physical Fitness and Preparation

• Endurance is Key: Even if you don't trek for extended period, its important that your cardiovascular endurance is in excellent shape. The altitude can make it difficult, hence we recommend exercises that focus on building stamina and improved lung health like long-distance hiking, running, cycling, or stair-climbing.

Keys to the Kingdom: Permits and Fees

Trekking in Upper Mustang is a privilege, regulated by the Government of Nepal to preserve its unique culture and fragile ecosystem. The permit process is strict and non-negotiable.

• Mandatory Permits: All foreign trekkers require two permits:
  1. Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP): This is the primary permit, costing USD $500 per person for the first 10 days. Any additional days spent within the restricted zone (north of Kagbeni) cost an extra USD $50 per day.
  2. Group Requirement: A minimum of two trekkers is strictly required to obtain the RAP permit. Even if you plan on traveling solo, you will still need to hire two valid passports (with valid Nepali visas) to meet the mandatory group size for the permit application.
  3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): As the trek begins and ends within the Annapurna Conservation Area, this permit is also required. The cost is USD $30 per person.

• The Process: Permits can only be obtained through a government-registered trekking agency in Nepal. Independent trekking is strictly forbidden. A minimum group size of two trekkers, accompanied by a licensed Nepali guide, is required to secure the permits.46 This regulation underscores the necessity of booking through an accredited operator.

Himalayan Hospitality: Accommodation, Food, and Water

• Accommodation: Lodging on the tour is in teahouses—simple, family-run guesthouses. Rooms are typically twin-bedded with basic furnishings. While clean and comfortable, trekkers should expect shared bathroom facilities and limited heating, which is usually confined to a stove in the main dining hall during the evenings. Extras such as charging electronic devices and hot showers are available for a small fee.
• Food: Teahouse menus offer a surprising variety of dishes, but the staple is Dal Bhat—a nutritious and energy-rich meal of rice, lentil soup, and vegetables, which often comes with free refills. It is advisable to stick to vegetarian options at higher altitudes, as meat is not always fresh.
• Water: Tap water is not safe to drink. To stay hydrated and avoid gastrointestinal issues, all water must be treated. The most environmentally friendly options are using water purification tablets/drops, a UV sterilizer, or a filter bottle. Boiled water can also be purchased at teahouses. Drinking 3-4 liters of water per day is crucial for proper acclimatization.

Your Mountain Companions: Guide and Porter Support

• Guide (Mandatory): The Upper Mustang region is highly regulated, and solo travelling isn't permitted, Hence a licensed guide is required by law. Beyond regulation, the guide is your most critical asset for safety, navigation, cultural interpretation, and logistical management. They bridge the language gap and provide invaluable insights into the Lo-pa culture.

Gearing Up: Essential Equipment Highlights

Key items specific to the challenges of Upper Mustang include:

• Layered Clothing System: A combination of moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers (fleece/down), and a windproof/waterproof outer shell.
• Footwear: Broken-in, sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support are essential.
• Face Protection: A buff, balaclava, or face mask is non-negotiable to protect against the persistent wind and dust.
• Sun Protection: High-altitude sun is intense. High SPF sunscreen, lip balm, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-rated sunglasses are mandatory.
• Trekking Poles: Highly recommended for stability on rocky trails and to reduce stress on knees during long descents.

For more specific details, please check our gear list section.

While this itinerary is a proven path, it can be customized to suit your specific interests or time constraints, including add-ons for the Tiji festival or more days in Lo Manthang.