Upper Mustang Is Now More Affordable: New $50 Per Day Permit Opens the Door for More Trekkers
02, Dec 2025 | Khilak Budhathoki
Upper Mustang is now easier and cheaper to visit than ever before!
More travellers can now get to Upper Mustang, which is known as "Nepal's Last Forbidden Kingdom." You can now visit Lo Manthang, old monasteries, and beautiful desert landscapes without spending a lot of money thanks to Nepal's new $50-per-day permit.
But for a long time, its high permit fees kept a lot of people from going.
Things are different now. In 2025, Nepal made one of the biggest changes to its tourism policies ever: Upper Mustang permits now cost only $50 a day.
This one change makes Upper Mustang easier to get to than ever and a great place for trekkers, photographers, jeep travellers, and people who want to learn about the culture.
Nepal Introduces a New Upper Mustang Permit System in 2025
Following a recent policy reform, Upper Mustang permits now cost only $50 per day.
Before this change, every foreigner who wanted to visit Upper Mustang had to pay a $500 Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for the first 10 days. Everyone had to pay the full price, no matter how long they stayed.
But now, the government of Nepal has set up a system that is flexible and easy for travellers to use:
New Rules for the Upper Mustang Permit (starting in 2025)
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$50 for each person each day
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No minimum number of days
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You only have to pay for the days you spend in Upper Mustang.
This new, flexible policy is meant to bring more tourists to Upper Mustang while still protecting its culture and fragile environment.
Old vs New Cost for Upper Mustang Permits
The new system reduces the cost of short trips dramatically. Here’s a clear comparison:
| Days in Upper Mustang | Old Cost (Flat Fee) | New Cost ($50/day) | Total Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Days | $500 | $150 | Save $350 |
| 5 Days | $500 | $250 | Save $250 |
| 7 Days | $500 | $350 | Save $150 |
| 10 Days | $500 | $500 | Same |
This is especially good who want:
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Short Upper Mustang jeep tours
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A quick Lo Manthang photography trip
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A 5-day Upper Mustang trek
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A cultural visit without committing to 10 days
More flexibility means more visitors can finally experience this incredible region.
Important Rules That Still Apply in Upper Mustang
Even though the price is lower now, Upper Mustang is still off-limits because of its historical importance and delicate ecosystem. A few rules stay the same to protect this important heritage:
1. You can't go on a trek by yourself; at least two other people must go with you.
2. You can't get a permit on your own; you have to book your trip through a registered Nepali trekking agency like Himalaya Trekking Nepal.
3. You need to hire a licensed government trekking guide. This makes sure that the trip is safe, respectful, and culturally aware.
4. You still need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP). Each one costs $50 per day.
These rules help keep tourism in the Upper Mustang area going for a long time.
Who Will Benefit From the New $50 Permit System?
This new permit rule is a huge advantage for:
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Short-term travellers
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Adventure bikers and jeep tour groups
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Photographers
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Travellers with a limited budget
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Hikers who prefer shorter treks
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Cultural tourists interested in Tibetan traditions
With no minimum days required, you can design exactly the trip you want.
Best Time to Visit Upper Mustang
Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, meaning it stays dry even during Nepal’s monsoon.
Best travel seasons:
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Spring (March–May): Mild weather, clear skies
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Autumn (September–November): Best visibility, ideal temperatures
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Monsoon (June–August): Still great weather due to the desert climate
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Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold but peaceful
Upper Mustang is one of Nepal’s only year-round trekking destinations.
Plan Your Upper Mustang Adventure With Himalaya Trekking Nepal
With the new $50 per day permit, there has never been a better time to explore Upper Mustang. Whether you're planning:
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A 4–5 day Jeep Tour to Lo Manthang
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A classic 10-day Upper Mustang Trek
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A photography-focused cultural tour
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A custom itinerary
We can help you craft a safe, smooth, and fully supported journey.
Book your Upper Mustang adventure now! Secure your $50/day permit and enjoy a tailor-made trek or jeep tour with Himalaya Trekking Nepal before slots fill for 2026.
FAQs
How much is the entry fee for Upper Mustang?
The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) now costs $50 per day, plus the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). You pay only for the days you spend inside Upper Mustang.
How much does the Upper Mustang trek cost?
Costs vary depending on duration, guide, porter, accommodation, and meals. With the $50/day permit, short treks are much more affordable. Typical 5–10 day treks range from $600–$1,500, excluding flights.
Do I need a guide to trek in Upper Mustang?
Yes, a licensed government guide is mandatory. Solo trekking is not allowed, and a minimum of two foreign trekkers is required to enter.
What is the best time to visit Upper Mustang?
Upper Mustang can be trekked year-round, but the best seasons are spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Sep–Nov) for clear skies, good visibility, and comfortable temperatures.
Can I do a jeep tour instead of trekking?
Yes, Upper Mustang is ideal for 4–5 day jeep tours, allowing exploration of Lo Manthang and the desert landscapes without trekking long distances.
Are permits included in tour packages?
Reputable trekking agencies include both RAP and ACAP permits in their package prices.
Why is Upper Mustang now more affordable?
Previously, the RAP was a flat $500 for the first 10 days regardless of length. The 2026 reform introduced $50 per day, with no minimum days, making short trips and budget travel much easier.
How do I book my Upper Mustang permit online?
You cannot book it yourself. Permits must be arranged through a licensed Nepali trekking agency like Himalaya Trekking Nepal, which will handle both RAP ($50/day) and ACAP for you.
