The Mustang Region of Nepal offers one of the most culturally and geographically unique trekking experiences in the country. Once a restricted kingdom, the Upper Mustang was opened to foreign travelers only in 1992, preserving its ancient Tibetan-influenced culture and stark Trans-Himalayan landscapes. Today, trekking in Mustang offers a rare chance to explore a once-forbidden land where time seems to stand still. At Hiking Paradise Pvt. Ltd., we provide well-organized treks and jeep tours in the Mustang Region that immerse you in its spiritual richness, natural beauty, and living history.
Trekking in Upper Mustang takes you through arid valleys, dramatic cliffs, and ancient settlements set against the backdrop of Mount Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri. The journey begins with a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, the gateway to the region, and continues along centuries-old trade routes that lead to the walled city of Lo-Manthang—the cultural and political heart of Mustang. Here, you’ll explore the Mustang King’s Palace, centuries-old Buddhist monasteries, and a maze of narrow alleys that reveal daily life in this high-altitude desert.
One of the most captivating experiences in Upper Mustang is witnessing the vibrant Tiji Festival in Lo-Manthang, a three-day celebration filled with ritual dances, masked performances, and deep-rooted spiritual meaning. For art and culture lovers, the region offers a treasure trove of ancient murals, frescoes, chortens, and Thangka paintings, as well as sky caves—manmade chambers carved into cliffs believed to be thousands of years old. The landscape is equally mesmerizing, with barley fields, pasture lands, and panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas creating a dramatic contrast to the dry terrain.
Trekking in Mustang is considered moderately challenging, with trails passing through elevations ranging from 2,800 to over 4,000 meters. It’s ideal for trekkers looking for an adventure that combines natural beauty with profound cultural insights. A special Upper Mustang trekking permit is required to enter the region, which costs USD 500 for 10 days (with an additional USD 50 per day thereafter), along with the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card. Government regulations also require at least two trekkers traveling with a registered Nepal trekking agency—which Hiking Paradise Pvt. Ltd. fully manages on your behalf.
In addition to classic trekking itineraries, we also offer jeep tours for those who prefer a less physically demanding way to explore Mustang’s highlights. Whether you choose to hike or drive, you’ll have the chance to visit Kagbeni, a charming medieval village at the entrance to Upper Mustang, Marpha, famous for its apple orchards and stone-paved lanes, and Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The Mustang trail can also be extended to connect with other trekking routes, including Thorong La Pass, the Annapurna Circuit, or even the Ghorepani–Poon Hill trail for more flexibility and scenic diversity.
With Hiking Paradise Pvt. Ltd., every Mustang adventure is thoughtfully curated, culturally immersive, and logistically seamless. Whether you're drawn to Mustang for its spiritual sites, its untouched landscapes, or its living history, this trek promises a once-in-a-lifetime journey through one of Nepal's most remarkable regions.
