Upper Mustang is the high, rain-shadow kingdom north of the Annapurna range — often called the Forbidden Kingdom. This guide covers where the journey starts, permits and fees, and the places that define a trip into Lo Manthang and beyond.
Where Upper Mustang starts
Most journeys begin in Jomsom (or nearby Kagbeni), reached by flight from Pokhara or by road along the Kali Gandaki. From Kagbeni the restricted zone begins. Trekking or jeep routes then climb into the arid valleys toward Chele, Ghami, Tsarang and finally Lo Manthang, the walled capital of the old Kingdom of Lo.
Overland travellers follow the same corridor by 4WD; the scenery shifts quickly from green mid-hills to wind-carved cliffs, prayer flags and Tibetan-style villages.
Restricted area permit & ACAP
Upper Mustang is a restricted area. Independent travel is not allowed — you must travel with a registered agency. Typical paperwork includes:
- Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP) — issued via the Department of Immigration through a licensed operator. Fees are set by the government and change periodically; your operator handles the application.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) — required for the approach through the Annapurna region.
- TIMS — may apply depending on route and current rules.
Budget for permit costs separately from your package price; we arrange all permits as part of every Upper Mustang trek or overland tour.
Places not to miss
- Lo Manthang — the medieval walled city, royal palace, and monasteries of the old kingdom.
- Chhoser caves — ancient sky caves cut into soft cliffs north of Lo Manthang.
- Tsarang & Ghami — classic villages, chortens and red-cliff landscapes.
- Muktinath — sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists, often combined on the way in or out.
- Kali Gandaki gorge — among the deepest river valleys on earth, the gateway from the south.
Best time to go
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the clearest skies. The Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang (usually May) is a highlight if your dates align. Winter is cold and some lodges close; monsoon is drier here than in the mid-hills but roads can still be rough.
How we travel Upper Mustang
Mustang Trekking runs guided treks, overland jeep journeys, motorbike tours and festival itineraries. We handle RAP, ACAP and logistics so you focus on the trail and the culture. Browse Upper Mustang packages or write to us with your dates and group size.