Best Time to Visit Upper Mustang: Quick Answer
The best time to visit Upper Mustang is from March to November, with May and September to October being the top choices. Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, so it stays dry even during the monsoon. For that reason, the region can be visited when most other Nepal treks are closed by rain.
The best month for you depends on what you want:
| Your goal | Best time |
|---|---|
| Witness the Tiji Festival | May (dates vary; see below) |
| Clear skies and stable weather | September to October |
| Fewer trekkers and a rain-free trip | June to August |
| Spring colours and moderate temperatures | April to May |
| Avoid the cold | Do not go from December to February |
Below, each season is explained so your trip can be planned with confidence.
Upper Mustang Weather and Seasons at a Glance
Lo Manthang, the walled capital, sits at about 3,840 m. Even in the best season, nights are cold, and strong afternoon winds blow through the Kali Gandaki valley. Warm layers should always be packed, whatever month is chosen.
Spring (March to May): A Strong Choice for the Upper Mustang Trek
Spring is considered one of the best times to visit Upper Mustang. Days are mild, skies are mostly clear, and the barren landscape is lit by warm light. Temperatures rise steadily from March, although early spring nights can still fall below freezing.
May is the most popular month because the Tiji Festival is usually held then. Lodges in Lo Manthang are booked months ahead, so early reservation is strongly advised.
Summer and Monsoon (June to August): Upper Mustang in the Rain Shadow
Monsoon clouds are blocked by the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, so rain is light in Upper Mustang. Quiet trails, green barley fields and lower prices are enjoyed by those who travel in this season.
The challenges are mostly outside the region. Flights to Jomsom can be delayed or cancelled by weather, and landslides can close roads on the way from Pokhara. A buffer of two extra days is recommended in any itinerary.
Autumn (September to November): The Peak Season
Autumn is when the clearest mountain views are offered. Dry air, stable weather and golden fields make September and October ideal for photographers and first-time visitors. Daytime temperatures are comfortable, but cold nights should be expected, especially in November.
Because this is peak season, permits, jeeps and lodges should be booked early.
Winter (December to February): Not Recommended
Temperatures in Lo Manthang drop far below freezing, and many lodges are closed because local families move to lower altitudes. Winter travel is generally not advised, and a standard trek cannot be guaranteed to run.
Upper Mustang in May: Tiji Festival Dates 2026-2027
The Tiji Festival is a three-day Buddhist ritual held in Lo Manthang. It is known as “Prayer for World Peace,” and the victory of good over evil is dramatized through masked monk dances.
The festival dates are set each year by the lamas of Choede Monastery using the Tibetan lunar calendar, so they change annually. In 2026 the festival was held on May 14 to 16. For 2027, the tiji festival is from June 1 to 3. The dates should be confirmed with your trip operator before flights are booked.
If the festival is your priority, reserve your Tiji Festival trek as early as possible. Rooms in Lo Manthang are limited.
Upper Mustang Permit Cost and Rules
Upper Mustang is a restricted area, so a special permit is required. As widely published, the fee has been US$500 per person for the first 10 days, with an extra US$50 charged for each additional day. Trekkers must travel with a licensed guide and in a group of at least two. Permits are arranged through registered agencies, and current fees should be verified on the official Nepal Tourism Board and Department of Immigration websites before payment is made.
Your permit and itinerary can be handled by our team. Get a free quote for your Upper Mustang trek.
How to Choose the Best Time to Visit Upper Mustang for Your Trip
For first-time visitors: September to October is recommended. Weather is stable and views are the clearest.
For culture lovers: The Tiji Festival in May is unmatched. Monasteries, cave dwellings and royal heritage in Lo Manthang can also be explored in any season. More background can be found on Wikipedia’s Upper Mustang page.
For budget travellers: June to August is usually cheaper, since fewer tourists are present. Flexibility must be allowed for flight delays.
For photographers: Late April to May and late September to October offer the best light.
For comfort seekers: Jeep or mixed jeep-and-trek options can be chosen, because a road now reaches Lo Manthang. Choose your route in our Upper Mustang trek packages page.
Upper Mustang Trek Preparation Tips
- Acclimatize properly. Altitude sickness is possible above 3,500 m, so rest days are built into good itineraries.
- Pack for wind and cold. A windproof jacket, sun protection and a warm sleeping bag are essential.
- Book early. Permits, guides, jeeps and lodges are secured faster when requests are made 3 to 6 months ahead for peak months.
- Carry insurance. Coverage for high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation should be arranged before departure.
- Respect local culture. Walk clockwise around chortens and mani walls, and ask before photographing people or monastery interiors.
Read our related guides: Upper Mustang trek itinerary, Upper Mustang permit guide and Tiji Festival tour.
Plan Your Upper Mustang Trip With Local Experts
The best time to visit Upper Mustang depends on your priorities, but March to November works well for most travellers. Your dates, route and budget can be matched by our Kathmandu-based team. Contact Mustang Trekking today to check availability, secure your permits and book your trip.
