Upper Mustang Permit Guide 2026: Costs, Process & Requirements

Upper Mustang is not your typical Nepal trek. This is a journey into one of the last preserved Tibetan Buddhist kingdoms on Earth—a place where ancient cave monasteries cling to rust-colored cliffs, where the walled city of Lo Manthang has stood for over five centuries, and where the landscape shifts from lush valleys to an arid, wind-sculpted moonscape that feels more like the Tibetan Plateau than the Nepal most trekkers know. Accessing this extraordinary region requires a special restricted area permit, and understanding the process, costs, and requirements before you plan your trek is essential.

This guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining the Upper Mustang restricted area permit in 2026, from the current fee structure and application process to required documents, checkpoints along the route, and common mistakes that can delay or derail your plans. Whether you're working with a trekking agency or still in the early planning stages, this comprehensive breakdown will ensure you have accurate, current information.

Table of Contents

1. What Is Upper Mustang?
2. Why Is Upper Mustang a Restricted Area?
3. Upper Mustang Permit Cost Breakdown
4. Who Can Apply for the Permit?
5. Required Documents
6. Step-by-Step Application Process
7. Processing Time and Planning Lead Times
8. Combining with ACAP and TIMS
9. Checkpoints on the Upper Mustang Route
10. Seasonal Considerations
11. What the Permit Fees Support
12. Common Mistakes to Avoid
13. Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Upper Mustang?

Upper Mustang, also known as the Kingdom of Lo, is a remote region in the north-central part of Nepal's Mustang District, bordering Tibet (China). For centuries, this area functioned as an independent kingdom with its own king (the Raja of Mustang), its own laws, and its own deeply Tibetan cultural identity. The kingdom was only formally absorbed into Nepal in the late 18th century, and even then it retained significant autonomy until the Nepali monarchy's abolition in 2008.

The region's capital, Lo Manthang, is a medieval walled city that remains one of the best-preserved examples of traditional Tibetan urban planning. Within its mud-brick walls stand four major monasteries, a royal palace, and a labyrinth of narrow lanes where daily life proceeds much as it has for centuries.

A Brief History of Access

• Before 1992: Upper Mustang was completely closed to foreign visitors. No tourism whatsoever was permitted.
• 1992: The Nepali government opened Upper Mustang to foreign trekkers for the first time, but with strict regulations—a high permit fee, mandatory group travel, and required agency involvement.
• 1992-2007: Tourism remained extremely limited, with only a few hundred visitors annually. The high cost served as an effective deterrent against mass tourism.
• 2008-Present: The permit system has continued with periodic fee adjustments, but the fundamental structure remains the same. Upper Mustang remains one of Nepal's most exclusive trekking destinations.

The trek to Upper Mustang typically follows the Kali Gandaki valley north from Jomsom, passing through Kagbeni (the gateway to Upper Mustang), and continuing through a dramatically different landscape to Lo Manthang. The standard trek takes 10-14 days, and most trekkers fly to Jomsom from Pokhara to begin the journey.

Why Is Upper Mustang a Restricted Area?

Nepal designates certain regions as "restricted areas" for compelling reasons, and Upper Mustang meets nearly all the criteria. Understanding why the restriction exists helps explain the permit's high cost and strict requirements.

Cultural Preservation

Upper Mustang contains some of the world's most significant Tibetan Buddhist heritage sites. The monasteries of Lo Manthang—Jampa Lhakhang (15th century), Thubchen Gompa (15th century), and Choede Monastery—house priceless wall paintings, manuscripts, and religious artifacts. The living culture of the Lo people, who maintain ancient Tibetan customs, ceremonies, and social structures, is considered irreplaceable.

Unrestricted tourism would almost certainly erode these traditions, as has happened in more accessible regions. The permit system limits visitor numbers to a level that the community can absorb without losing its cultural identity.

Geopolitical Sensitivity

Upper Mustang shares a long border with Tibet (China's Tibet Autonomous Region). The area has historical connections to Tibetan resistance movements, and Nepal's relationship with China makes border areas politically sensitive. Restricted area permits allow the government to monitor and control who enters these border zones.

Environmental Protection

The Trans-Himalayan ecosystem of Upper Mustang is fragile. The arid landscape, similar to the Tibetan Plateau, is vulnerable to erosion, and vegetation grows slowly in this harsh environment. Limiting visitor numbers helps control the environmental impact of tourism, including waste management, trail erosion, and resource consumption.

Revenue Generation for Local Communities

The high permit fee is explicitly designed to generate revenue for the Mustang region. A portion of permit fees is directed to local development projects, conservation efforts, and cultural preservation initiatives. The philosophy is straightforward: fewer visitors paying more, rather than mass tourism paying less.

Upper Mustang Permit Cost Breakdown

The Upper Mustang permit is one of the most expensive trekking permits in Nepal, but the cost structure is straightforward once you understand it.

Permit Fees for Foreign Nationals (Non-SAARC)

| Duration | Cost | |----------|------| | First 10 days | $500 USD | | Each additional day | $50 USD per day |

Permit Fees for SAARC Nationals

| Duration | Cost | |----------|------| | First 10 days | $250 USD | | Each additional day | $25 USD per day |

SAARC nations include India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Maldives, and Afghanistan. Nepali citizens do not need a permit.

Total Permit Costs for a Typical Upper Mustang Trek

The restricted area permit is not the only permit you need. Here is the complete cost picture:

| Permit | Cost (Foreign) | Notes | |--------|---------------|-------| | Restricted Area Permit (10 days) | $500 USD | Core Upper Mustang permit | | Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | NPR 3,000 (~$22 USD) | Required for the entire Annapurna region | | TIMS Card | NPR 2,000 (~$15 USD) | May be arranged through agency | | Total | ~$537 USD | For a standard 10-day trek |

Payment Details

• The restricted area permit fee must be paid in US dollars (cash) or the equivalent in Nepali Rupees at the prevailing exchange rate.
• Some agencies include the permit cost in their trek package, while others list it as an additional fee. Always clarify this before booking.
• The fee is non-refundable once the permit is issued, even if you cancel the trek or cut it short.

Who Can Apply for the Permit?

The Upper Mustang permit has specific eligibility requirements that differ from standard trekking permits in Nepal.

Mandatory Agency Involvement

You cannot apply for the Upper Mustang restricted area permit as an independent trekker. The permit must be arranged through a government-registered trekking agency licensed by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN).

Your agency handles the application process, submits documents on your behalf, and coordinates with the Department of Immigration. This is not optional—there is no provision for individual applications.

For guidance on selecting a trustworthy agency, see our guide to choosing a trekking agency and the best trekking agencies for Upper Mustang.

Minimum Group Size

The regulation requires a minimum of two trekkers to apply for the Upper Mustang restricted area permit. Solo travelers cannot obtain the permit on their own. However, this requirement is easier to meet than it sounds:

• Agencies can pair solo travelers with another trekker or group heading to Upper Mustang on similar dates.
• Two friends or family members meet the requirement automatically.
• Some agencies will register a solo trekker alongside a staff member to technically meet the two-person minimum, though this practice varies and depends on the agency's relationship with immigration officials.

Licensed Guide Requirement

A licensed trekking guide must accompany your group throughout the Upper Mustang trek. This is part of the restricted area regulations, not just the general 2024 solo trekking policy. Your agency will provide the guide as part of the trek package.

Age and Health Requirements

There is no official age restriction for the Upper Mustang permit, but trekkers should be physically fit enough for multi-day trekking at altitudes reaching approximately 3,800 meters (Lo Manthang). The trek is considered moderate in difficulty compared to high-altitude treks like Everest Base Camp, but the remoteness requires self-sufficiency and good general health.

Required Documents

Preparing the correct documents before your agency submits the application avoids delays. Here is what you need:

For the Restricted Area Permit Application

1. Valid passport — Must have at least 6 months validity beyond your planned trek dates. Your agency will need a clear photocopy of the photo/information page.

2. Passport-sized photos — Two recent passport photos (standard 35mm x 45mm). Some agencies accept digital photos, but it's best to have physical copies ready.

3. Nepal visa — You must have a valid Nepal tourist visa. The permit cannot be processed without an active visa.

4. Agency confirmation letter — Your trekking agency provides this, confirming your booking, trek dates, group composition, and their TAAN registration.

5. Trekking itinerary — A day-by-day itinerary submitted by the agency. The permit duration should match or exceed the itinerary length.

6. Emergency contact information — Name, phone number, and email of an emergency contact outside Nepal.

7. Travel insurance details — Proof of travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation up to at least 4,000 meters. For comprehensive insurance guidance, see our travel insurance guide.

For ACAP

• Passport photocopy
• Two passport-sized photos
• ACAP application form (available at the NTB counter or through your agency)

For TIMS Card

• Passport photocopy
• Two passport-sized photos
• TIMS application form
• Agency letter (for group TIMS)

Step-by-Step Application Process

Here is the complete process from initial booking to permit in hand:

Step 1: Book with a Registered Trekking Agency

Contact and book your Upper Mustang trek through a TAAN-registered agency. Confirm that the agency will handle the permit process (virtually all do for restricted area treks). Provide all required documents to the agency.

Step 2: Agency Prepares the Application

Your agency compiles the permit application package, including:

• Completed application forms
• Your passport copies and photos
• Your agency's TAAN registration documents
• The trek itinerary
• Group member details

Step 3: Submission to the Department of Immigration

The agency submits the application in person at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu (located in Kalikasthan, near the Thamel tourist district). This cannot be done online—physical submission is required.

Step 4: Fee Payment

The permit fee ($500 USD for 10 days for foreign nationals) is paid at the time of application. Payment is accepted in USD cash or equivalent Nepali Rupees. The agency typically collects the fee from you beforehand and makes the payment on your behalf.

Step 5: Processing Period

The Department of Immigration processes the application, which typically takes 1 to 3 working days. During peak season, processing may take slightly longer. The permit is processed and printed at the Department's office.

Step 6: Permit Collection

Your agency collects the completed permit from the Department of Immigration. The permit document includes your photo, passport details, trek dates, and the agency's information.

Step 7: Carry the Permit on the Trek

You must carry the physical permit with you throughout the trek. It will be checked at multiple checkpoints between Kagbeni and Lo Manthang.

Step 8: Obtain ACAP and TIMS Simultaneously

While the restricted area permit is being processed, your agency should also arrange the ACAP and TIMS card. These can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board counter in Kathmandu or Pokhara. For details on these permits, see our TIMS card guide and ACAP permit guide.

Processing Time and Planning Lead Times

Application Processing

• Standard processing: 1-3 working days at the Department of Immigration
• Peak season (Oct-Nov, Mar-May): Allow 2-3 working days minimum
• Off-season: Often processed within 1 working day

Recommended Planning Timeline

| Timeframe | Action | |-----------|--------| | 3-6 months before | Book with agency, confirm dates, pay deposit | | 2-3 months before | Send all documents to agency, confirm insurance | | 1-2 weeks before arrival | Agency prepares application package | | Day 1-2 in Kathmandu | Agency submits application, pays fee | | Day 2-4 in Kathmandu | Permit processed and collected | | Day 3-5 | Depart for Pokhara/Jomsom and begin trek |

Can You Get a Permit at the Last Minute?

Technically, yes—if your agency submits the application and all documents are in order, the permit can sometimes be processed in a single day. However, this is risky:

• Department offices may be closed on weekends and public holidays (Nepal follows the Nepali calendar, and holidays can be unexpected for foreign visitors).
• Staff shortages or high volumes during peak season can cause delays.
• Any document issues require additional time to resolve.

We recommend building in at least 2-3 buffer days in Kathmandu before your planned trek departure.

Combining with ACAP and TIMS

The Upper Mustang trek passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you need the ACAP permit in addition to the restricted area permit. You also need a TIMS card for safety registration.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

The ACAP permit costs NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals and covers your entry into the entire Annapurna Conservation Area, which includes the trail from Jomsom through Kagbeni and into Upper Mustang. This permit also covers any side trips within the Annapurna region, such as visiting Muktinath, exploring Marpha, or the apple orchards around Jomsom.

TIMS Card

The TIMS card costs NPR 2,000 for individual trekkers or NPR 1,000 for those trekking through an agency. Since Upper Mustang requires agency involvement, you'll likely get the group rate. Some agencies include the TIMS card in their package, while others list it separately.

Where to Get All Three Permits

• Restricted Area Permit: Department of Immigration, Kathmandu only
• ACAP: Nepal Tourism Board counter (Kathmandu or Pokhara) or ACAP checkpoint at Birethanti/Besi Sahar
• TIMS: Nepal Tourism Board counter (Kathmandu or Pokhara)

Your agency can typically handle all three permits simultaneously. The restricted area permit is the only one that must be obtained in Kathmandu—ACAP and TIMS can technically be obtained in Pokhara as well.

Checkpoints on the Upper Mustang Route

Your permits will be checked at multiple points along the trek. Understanding where these checkpoints are helps you keep your documents accessible.

Kagbeni Checkpoint

Location: Kagbeni village (2,810m), at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Jhong Khola rivers.

This is the primary checkpoint marking the boundary of the Upper Mustang restricted area. All trekkers heading north of Kagbeni must present their restricted area permit, ACAP, and TIMS card. Officers record your name, passport number, permit number, and the date. This is the most thorough check on the route.

Samar/Chhusang Area

A secondary checkpoint exists in the area around Samar or Chhusang (the exact location may vary). This check is typically quicker—officers verify your permit and may record your passage. Keep your permits in a waterproof pouch that's easily accessible.

Lo Manthang Checkpoint

Upon arrival in Lo Manthang, you'll check in with local authorities who verify your permit and record your arrival date. This checkpoint also serves as a registration point for the Lo Manthang municipality.

Return Checkpoint

When you pass back through Kagbeni on your return journey, officers check your permit again and record your exit from the restricted area. This helps authorities track that all trekkers who entered have also exited safely.

Seasonal Considerations

The time of year you trek Upper Mustang affects not just weather and conditions but also the permit experience.

Best Seasons for Upper Mustang

Spring (March-May): Excellent conditions with wildflowers blooming in the lower sections, moderate temperatures in Lo Manthang, and generally clear skies. This is peak season, and permit applications may take slightly longer due to volume.

Monsoon (June-August): Surprisingly, Upper Mustang lies in the Himalayan rain shadow and receives very little monsoon rainfall. This makes it one of the few treks in Nepal that works well during monsoon season. Permits are easier and faster to obtain due to lower demand.

Autumn (September-November): Crystal-clear skies, excellent visibility, and comfortable temperatures make this the other peak season. The Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang (usually May) draws additional visitors. Permit processing can be busy.

Winter (December-February): Cold but possible. Temperatures in Lo Manthang can drop well below freezing. Permit processing is quick due to very few applicants. Some tea houses may be closed, so confirm availability with your agency. See our winter trekking guide for more on cold-season trekking.

Seasonal Impact on Permit Processing

| Season | Demand Level | Processing Time | Notes | |--------|-------------|-----------------|-------| | Spring (Mar-May) | High | 2-3 days | Book agency well in advance | | Monsoon (Jun-Aug) | Low | 1 day | Good for Upper Mustang specifically | | Autumn (Sep-Nov) | High | 2-3 days | Busiest period | | Winter (Dec-Feb) | Very Low | 1 day | Confirm tea house availability |

What the Permit Fees Support

Understanding where your $500 goes can help contextualize what feels like a steep fee.

Conservation and Heritage Preservation

A significant portion of Upper Mustang permit revenue funds cultural preservation projects. The monasteries of Lo Manthang, some dating back to the 15th century, require ongoing restoration. Wall paintings, manuscripts, and architectural structures deteriorate in the harsh climate and need expert conservation. International organizations like the American Himalayan Foundation have partnered with local communities on restoration projects, supplemented by permit revenue.

Local Community Development

Permit fees contribute to community development in the Mustang District, including:

• Education: Support for schools and teacher salaries in remote villages
• Healthcare: Funding for health posts and medical supplies
• Infrastructure: Trail maintenance, bridge repair, and water systems
• Cultural programs: Support for traditional festivals, arts, and language preservation

Visitor Management

A portion of fees covers the administrative cost of the permit system itself: staffing checkpoints, processing applications, monitoring compliance, and coordinating with security forces in the border region.

Economic Perspective

While $500 seems expensive compared to other Nepal trekking permits, consider the context: this fee, combined with the spending of each trekker on accommodation, food, and services over 10-14 days, provides significant economic benefit to one of Nepal's most remote and economically marginalized regions. The restricted access model ensures this benefit is sustainable rather than overwhelming.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Based on years of reports from trekkers and agencies, these are the most frequent errors that cause problems with Upper Mustang permits:

Mistake 1: Trying to Apply Independently

The permit must go through a registered agency. Every year, trekkers arrive at the Department of Immigration hoping to apply individually and are turned away. There are no exceptions to this rule.

Mistake 2: Insufficient Passport Validity

Your passport must have at least 6 months of validity beyond your trek dates. Passports expiring within this window will cause the application to be rejected.

Mistake 3: Arriving in Kathmandu Without Buffer Days

Flying into Kathmandu and expecting to depart for Upper Mustang the next day leaves zero margin for permit processing, flight delays, or document issues. Build in at least 2-3 days.

Mistake 4: Not Carrying Physical Permits

Digital copies on your phone are useful backups, but checkpoints require physical permits. Forgetting your permits at the lodge or having them buried in your duffel bag creates unnecessary stress.

Mistake 5: Confusing Lower and Upper Mustang

Some trekkers book treks labeled "Mustang" without realizing the itinerary only covers Lower Mustang (Jomsom to Kagbeni area), which doesn't require the $500 restricted area permit. Confirm your itinerary explicitly includes travel north of Kagbeni if you want the Upper Mustang experience.

Mistake 6: Not Confirming What's Included in the Agency Price

Some agencies quote an all-inclusive price that covers the restricted area permit, ACAP, and TIMS. Others quote a base price with permits listed as extras. Clarify before booking to avoid budget surprises.

Mistake 7: Planning Too Few Days

The standard 10-day permit is sufficient for most itineraries, but some trekkers want to explore side valleys, spend extra time in Lo Manthang, or visit the sky caves of Chhoser. If your itinerary needs more than 10 days, arrange the additional days ($50/day) at the time of initial application.

Mistake 8: Ignoring the Minimum Group Requirement

Solo travelers sometimes arrive thinking they can sort out the group requirement on the ground. Contact your agency well in advance to arrange a trekking partner or group pairing.

Tips for a Smooth Permit Process

Beyond avoiding mistakes, these proactive strategies ensure your permit experience goes smoothly:

Work with a Reputable Agency

Choose an agency with specific Upper Mustang experience. They'll know the current requirements, have established relationships with immigration officials, and handle the paperwork efficiently. See our Upper Mustang agency guide and the TAAN verification guide for help choosing.

Provide Documents Early

Send your passport copy, photos, and insurance details to your agency as soon as you book—ideally weeks before arrival. This allows them to prepare the application package so it's ready for submission the moment you arrive in Kathmandu.

Carry Extra Passport Photos

Bring 6-8 passport photos to Nepal. You'll need them for the restricted area permit, ACAP, TIMS, and potentially for your Nepal visa on arrival. Having extras avoids scrambling for a photo shop.

Have USD Cash Available

The restricted area permit fee is denominated in USD. While it can technically be paid in Nepali Rupees at the prevailing rate, having $500 USD in clean, undamaged bills simplifies the process. ATMs in Kathmandu dispense Nepali Rupees, and money changers in Thamel can provide USD if needed.

Keep a Permit Checklist

Before leaving Kathmandu, verify you have:

• Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (physical copy)
• ACAP permit (physical copy)
• TIMS card (physical copy)
• Passport (original)
• Photocopies of all documents (backup)
• Digital photos of all permits (stored on phone and cloud)

Planning Your Upper Mustang Trek

With the permit secured, you're ready to plan the trek itself. Upper Mustang is one of the most rewarding treks in Nepal, offering a cultural and landscape experience unlike anything else in the Himalaya.

Recommended Resources

• Route overview: Upper Mustang Trek route guide
• Understanding all Nepal permits: Nepal trekking permits explained
• ACAP details: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
• TIMS details: TIMS card guide
• Cultural preparation: Nepal trekking cultural etiquette

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get the Upper Mustang permit in Pokhara or at the trailhead?

No. The Upper Mustang restricted area permit can only be obtained from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. It cannot be issued in Pokhara, Jomsom, or at the Kagbeni checkpoint. Plan your itinerary to include time in Kathmandu for permit processing.

What happens if my trek takes fewer than 10 days?

The permit fee for the first 10 days is a flat rate regardless of how many days you actually spend in the restricted area. If you complete your trek in 8 days, you still pay $500. There are no partial refunds.

Can I extend my permit if I want to stay longer?

Extensions beyond the initial 10 days must be arranged at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu before entering the restricted area. You cannot extend the permit once you're on the trek. If you think you might want extra days, add them during the initial application.

Is the $500 fee per person or per group?

The fee is per person. Each trekker in the group pays $500 individually. A group of two trekkers pays $1,000 total in restricted area permit fees.

Do children pay the same permit fee?

Yes, all foreign nationals regardless of age pay the standard permit fee. There is no child discount for the Upper Mustang restricted area permit.

Can I visit Upper Mustang and then continue to other restricted areas?

Each restricted area requires its own separate permit. If you plan to combine Upper Mustang with another restricted area trek, you need separate permits and applications for each.

What if my flight to Jomsom is delayed?

Flight delays on the Pokhara-Jomsom route are common due to weather. Your permit validity starts on the date specified in the application, not the date you actually arrive in the restricted area. If significant delays consume your permit days, your agency may need to arrange a modification—though this can be complicated once the permit is issued. Building buffer days into your itinerary is the best protection.

Are drone permits required separately?

If you plan to fly a drone in Upper Mustang, you need a separate drone permit from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN). Drone regulations in Nepal are strict and evolving—check current requirements with your agency and CAAN directly.

Can I leave and re-enter the restricted area on the same permit?

The permit is valid for continuous travel within the restricted area during the specified dates. Leaving and re-entering on the same permit is generally acceptable as long as it's within the validity period, but this is an unusual situation. Discuss specific plans with your agency.

What proof of travel insurance do I need?

You need documentation showing your travel insurance covers emergency helicopter evacuation in the Himalaya (coverage up to at least 4,000 meters altitude). A printed insurance certificate or policy summary showing the relevant coverage is sufficient. For recommendations, see our travel insurance guide.

Is the Upper Mustang permit worth the cost?

This is subjective, but most trekkers who complete the Upper Mustang trek consider the $500 well spent. The cultural experience of Lo Manthang, the dramatic Trans-Himalayan landscape, the lack of crowds (compared to Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp), and the sense of entering a truly remote and preserved region create an experience that most trekkers describe as transformative. The permit fee is also a one-time cost within a trek that will already cost $1,500-3,000+ including agency fees, flights, and expenses.

How do I verify that my agency has actually obtained the permit?

Ask your agency to show you the physical permit before you depart Kathmandu. The permit is a printed document with your photo, passport details, permit number, and validity dates. If your agency is reluctant to show you the permit, that's a serious red flag.

Has the permit cost changed recently?

The $500 USD rate for 10 days has been stable for several years. Nepal's Department of Immigration reviews permit fees periodically, and changes are typically announced months in advance. Your agency should notify you of any fee changes between booking and departure.

Final Thoughts

The Upper Mustang restricted area permit represents both a financial commitment and a bureaucratic process, but neither should deter you from this extraordinary trek. The system exists for good reason—protecting one of the last intact Tibetan Buddhist kingdoms—and the investment provides access to experiences unavailable anywhere else in the trekking world.

By working with a reputable agency, preparing your documents in advance, building buffer days into your Kathmandu schedule, and understanding the checkpoint system, the permit process becomes a manageable administrative step rather than an obstacle. The real challenge of Upper Mustang isn't the paperwork—it's choosing which of the kingdom's countless wonders to explore during your days in this remarkable corner of Nepal.

For a complete overview of all permits needed for trekking in Nepal, see our comprehensive Nepal trekking permits guide.