Upper Mustang permit fee

Upper mustang permit information

Mustang has been a great attraction for experiencing the way of leading a true life with the mountainous people. Upper Mustang trekking permit fee start from US$50 per person per day (The most significant update for 2026 is old mandatory $500 for 10-days base fee has been replaced by a flat $50 per person per day rate. Tourists will now also be able to travel in restricted areas on a single permit. According to the Department of Immigration, the department will now issue travel permits to even one traveler). It make shorter trips more affordable. Mustang permit fee is non-refundable and must be paid in advance. It is easy to get Upper Mustang permits with the support of local agency. We will take care of entire process, and you will only need to provide us passport, visa and permit fee.

Upper Mustang is one of the preserved regions of Nepal, located in the north-western part of Nepal. It is a desert-like plateau that was once a part of Tibetan Empire, and still retains much of its cultural and religious heritage. Trekking or tours in Upper Mustang is a unique experience that requires a special permit due to the restricted access to the region. Visiting Upper Mustang is an opportunity for all explored to travel on ancient Himalayan trading route exploring rural life and mountains. The travelers need to obtain special pass to visit wonderful paradise of Mustang.

Is it necessary to have a trekking permit?

Of course! Special permit, ACAP permit are important to do trekking in upper mustang area of Nepal. Restricted area permit not possible to issue on the way, obtain before start trip either from Kathmandu or  Pokhara. So make sure all permits and official formalities completed before start the trip. Restricted area permit is non-transferable and is required to be carried with you at all times during the trek / tour.
Upper Mustang Trekking Permit is a legal document that authorizes foreign visitors to enter the Upper  part of Mustang. It is issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu, and is only valid for a specific period of time. The permit is mandatory for all foreigners.

How much does the Upper Mustang trekking permit cost?

Upper mustang trek permit cost US$ 50 per person per day. Individuals can now trek alone (no more two-person minimum). However, you still need licensed guide, special permit and registered agency to handle your arrangements.

1: Restricted area permit guidelines

The restricted zone begins at Kagbeni. Everything north of this village requires the special RAP. Restricted area trekking permit issue by the immigration office of government of Nepal either in Kathmandu or Pokhara through the registered trekking agency Nepal. Original passport of travelers, Nepal visa and passport size photo requires to issue.

Territory above Kagbeni village known as the upper mustang area. It is not possible to enter upper mustang without permit. Travelers have to show special permit and passport at ceckpost for registration before and after tour. Given documents are essential to issue Upper Mustang trekking permit.

# Copy of valid passport

# Photocopy of Nepal visa

# Passport size 1 photo (for ACAP permit)

# Local agency itinerary and insurance

# Permit fees US$ 50 per person / per day

Upper mustang trekking permit application form online

For more detail about mustang permit fee visit: http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np
Please note that individual travelers are not allowed to visit Upper Mustang Nepal.

Why is Upper Mustang restricted?

Upper mustang was restricted area for foreigners till 1992. This area still under control of government of Nepal to preserve its unique nature and culture in real form. Beside that mustang is an important strategic area in this way it is limited for foreigners.

2: ACAP entry permit

Upper mustang is the part of Annapurna conservation area. To enter this region you have to have Annapurna conservation area permit also. ACAP permit cost is US$ 30 per person for whole trip. It is easy to obtain from the office of Nepal tourism board Kathmandu and ACAP Counter Pokhara. Local guide assist in any aspect to provide you better travel experience.

Conclusion about upper mustang permit fee Nepal

The permit system is strictly enforced by the government to protect its unique Tibetan Buddhist culture, preserve the fragile trans-Himalayan ecosystem, and maintain security along the sensitive northern border with Tibet. Upper mustang area controlled for foreign travelers, not allowed to travel without agency and guide. We issue all necessary permits, do provide guide, porter, driver services and organize upper mustang trip as per your requirements. Email us to get the private trip cost or check the fix departure date to join the group.

 Q: Why is the Upper Mustang permit so expensive?

A: The high permit fee is a conservation and cultural preservation measure by the Nepali government. It controls tourist flow, funds local infrastructure and helps to protect the unique, fragile environment and culture of the region.

Q: How much does the Upper Mustang trekking permit cost?
Answer: Upper mustang trekking permit cost US$ 50 per person per day. Permits and Fees (2026 Updates) Previously, there was a mandatory flat fee of $500 for the first 10 days. While the daily rate is the same ($50), you are no longer forced to pay for 10 days if you only plan to stay for 5 or 6.

Q: How to get Upper Mustang permit?
Answer: Restricted area trekking permit issue by the immigration office of government of Nepal either in Kathmandu or Pokhara with the support of registered trekking agency Nepal. The permits are checked at entry points, mainly Jomsom and Chhusang village.

Q: Does Nepali need a permit for Upper Mustang?
Answer: No, Nepali citizens do need special permit to enter Upper Mustang but need to pay small amount of money to enter monuments of Upper Mustang.

Q: How to book a permit for Upper Mustang trip?
Answer: You cannot apply for Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit on your own. It must be handled by a registered trekking or tour company of Nepal. Local company will submit your application to the Department of Immigration on your behalf.

Q: Do Indians need a permit to visit Mustang?
Answer: Upper Mustang is a restricted area, so special permits are mandatory for all foreign travelers including Indian (No discount available for SAARC nationals)

Q: What are the Mandatory requirements?
Answer: Minimum group of 2 foreign travelers + a licensed Nepali guide. Organized treks are the norm no independent travel. Follow Leave No Trace principles.

Q: Can I travel to Upper Mustang without a guide?
Answer: No. A licensed guide is mandatory through registered trekking agency of Nepal.

Q. Can I get the permit on arrival or in Jomsom?
Answer: No. The Upper Mustang Special Permit (RAP) must be arranged in advance through a licensed trekking agency in Kathmandu or Pokhara. You cannot obtain the permit at the trailhead or in Jomsom. Allow at least 1 working days for processing.

Q. Are there any age restrictions for the permit?
Answer: There are no official age restrictions. However, the altitude (up to 4,000+ meters) and multi-day physical demands mean that very young children and elderly trekkers should consult a physician before undertaking this trip. Many families with older children (12+) have trek and tours here successfully.

Q: What is the minimum group size required?
Answer: Minimum of two person require as per Current regulations. If you are travelling alone local agency can often pair you with another small group, even if you trek or tour separately.

Q: What happens if I don’t get the proper permits?
Answer: Visiting without valid permits is illegal. There are checkpoints along the route, and those without documentation face heavy fines, immediate deportation and potential bans from future travel in Nepal.

Q: Can I get the permit in Pokhara?
Answer: Yes, the Department of Immigration has offices in both Kathmandu and Pokhara that can issue these permits through your agency.

Hope this information helps you plan an incredible journey to the Last Forbidden Kingdom. Plan Wisely.

Travel Responsibly. Explore Mindfully.