Mustang region is one of the most famous trekking routes in Nepal. It offers a unique trekking experience with treeless landscapes and rocky trails, set against the backdrop of spectacular views of Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Annapurna, Mt Dhaulagiri, and other Himalayas.
Mustang was a forbidden place for foreigners until 1992. This isolation has preserved the lifestyle and cultural heritage of the place. The beautiful land has two sections: Upper Mustang and Lower Mustang. The main highlight of the Upper Mustang trek is Lo-Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang.
Along the trail, you will come across barren ridges, deep canyons, eroded cliffs, and moraine valleys. Yes, traveling does fill your soul, and Mustang has a lot to offer. However, financial constraints often push travel plans behind, especially since trekking in the Himalayas can be quite expensive.
When considering the mustang trek pricing, there are numerous expenses to factor in, starting from the plane ticket to Nepal. This is typically the most expensive part, followed by the permits required for the trek. Other major expenses include trekking equipment (including a first aid kit), local transportation, guide and porter charges, tips, and souvenir shopping.
While it’s challenging to plan for every eventuality, good preparation can make your trip much more memorable. Indeed, preparation begins with financial planning. Understanding the mustang trek cost will help you plan more effectively.
The beauty of Mustang is undeniable, and its unique features account for its popularity. The name Mustang came from the Tibetan word “Mun tan,” meaning fertile plain. The Tibetan language is widely spoken, and traditional culture remains prevalent throughout the region. The Mustang trek is popular among both national and international trekkers.
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Mustang Trek Cost Breakdown
Before diving into your plans, it’s crucial to work on your finances. Let’s break down the various costs associated with the Mustang trek:
Upper Mustang Trekking Permit Cost
Like many restricted areas in Nepal, the government has special rules and costs for Upper Mustang trekking permits. The permits you’ll need are:
Mustang Restricted Area Permit
The cost for this mustang restricted permit is USD 500 per person, which might deter some trekkers. The high price is due to Mustang being a restricted region in Nepal and difficult to access. The government imposes this fee to control the number of tourists entering this hidden region and to preserve its beauty.
NOTE: This USD 500 per person price is valid for the first 10 days. In most cases, this duration is sufficient for a two-week trek in the region, as you’ll only be in the restricted area for 10 days.
Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP)
You also need to obtain an ACAP permit, which costs USD 30 per person. This is necessary because anyone wishing to reach Upper Mustang must pass through the Annapurna Region.
NOTE: This permit is valid for a single entry and exit but allows for an unlimited number of days in the Annapurna region.
Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card
This is not required if your itinerary only includes Upper Mustang, as the Restricted Area Permit serves in its place. However, if you wish to do other treks like Annapurna Base Camp or Poon Hill, then the TIMS card is mandatory. The cost of this card is USD 20 per person.
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Guide and Porter Cost
While solo treks are possible in Nepal, some treks, especially to restricted regions like Mustang, require a licensed guide or porter. Hiring a guide for the Mustang region is not overly expensive.
The per-day cost for a guide is USD 35-40, which includes the cost of food, accommodation, and insurance. You can also hire a porter, with costs ranging from USD 25-30 per day, including the porter’s food, accommodation, and insurance.
Many trekkers wonder if the Upper Mustang trek is possible with only a porter. While the answer is yes, hiring a guide is highly recommended. A professional guide has a license from the government and the necessary training to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. They are well-trained to handle emergency situations and ensure client safety.
It’s worth noting that many local trekking companies offer comprehensive packages that include guide and porter services. These companies often have extensive experience with the Mustang trek and can provide valuable insights and support throughout your journey.
NOTE: You will not be granted entry at checkpoints if you are not accompanied by either a guide or a porter.
Cost of transportation
Your journey typically starts in Kathmandu, then proceeds to Pokhara and continues to Jomsom. Jomsom is the vantage point from where your actual trek begins.
There are various transportation options between Kathmandu and Pokhara, including local buses, tourist buses, daily flights, and private jeeps. From Pokhara to Jomsom, while local buses and jeeps are available, taking a flight is highly recommended for safety reasons, especially during the monsoon season when road travel can be risky.
Here’s a rough idea about transportation costs:
- Kathmandu to Pokhara (By Bus): USD 10-25 one way per person
- Kathmandu to Pokhara (By flight): USD 140 one way per person
- Pokhara to Jomsom to Kagbeni (bus/jeep): Roughly USD 35-45 per person
- Pokhara to Jomsom (Flight): USD 170 one way per person
When booking your transportation, consider purchasing delay protection to safeguard against potential trip interruptions due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances.
Food cost
The Upper Mustang region is a fairly remote area of Nepal, so food costs are generally more expensive compared to Kathmandu, and menu choices are limited. This is due to transportation difficulties; it takes considerable effort to carry products to these regions, especially where transportation is not fully accessible.
From Jomsom to Lo Manthang, locals transport supplies either on mules or by porters. You can budget around USD 10 per meal, or USD 30 to 45 on a daily basis. Breakfast is usually cheaper than lunch and dinner.
Drinks
Good news for beer lovers, Upper Mustang is one of the cheapest places in the mountains to enjoy beer, thanks to its open border and easy access with Tibet (China). Most trekkers, including guides and porters, usually enjoy a round of beer after the trek, especially the local Tibetan-Chinese beer.
As for the cost of tea and coffee, it’s relatively the same as in other mountainous regions. Here are some typical costs:
- A cup of tea: USD 2-3
- A cup of coffee: USD 2.5-4
- A bottle of beer (1 liter): USD 4-6
- A bottle of water/soda: USD 1-4
Accommodation
Accommodation is readily available in the Upper Mustang region. Due to demand from trekkers, there are many teahouses and homestays in the area. In the past, trekkers had to carry tents for camping, but things have changed. There are now enough teahouses along the route to provide comfortable accommodation.
However, be aware that during festive seasons, especially the Tiji festival, teahouse accommodation can be very busy and may not be available everywhere on the route. Many tea houses offer twin sharing rooms, which can help reduce costs if you’re traveling with a companion.
The cost of teahouse accommodation is roughly USD 10-12 per person per night for a twin sharing room.
Other miscellaneous costs
For any trek in Nepal, there are some extra costs to consider:
Charging electronic gadgets: Unlike other areas where charging is a free luxury in hotels and restaurants, in these regions, it will cost you a few dollars to charge your gadgets such as cameras, iPods, and mobile phones. The extra cost is due to the high investment in local hydro-power stations. Consider investing in a portable solar battery charger or power bank.
Bucket shower: Water heated by gas or firewood will cost you a few dollars at a time. It’s not practical or economical to expect a shower every day in the mountains. Using wipes or a small towel to freshen up every morning and night can be a good alternative.
Monastery, gonpa, or stupa visits: Although not compulsory, donations are expected for the maintenance of these sites.
Tips: While not mandatory, your guide and porter will likely expect some tips at the end of the trek. The amount can vary and depends on your experience with their service.
Conclusion
With all the information provided above, there’s no doubt that the Mustang trek is an expensive endeavor, largely due to the mustang restricted permit. However, this shouldn’t discourage you. The Mustang trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s worth every penny.
Every year, Mustang attracts more and more trekkers due to its untouched natural beauty and the unique cultural lifestyle of the people living in this region. When you factor in the breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel, the mustang trek pricing becomes a worthwhile investment in an unforgettable adventure.
We highly recommend visiting Mustang and being part of a journey unlike any other. Remember to plan carefully, considering all aspects of the mustang trek cost, from permits and transportation to accommodation and miscellaneous expenses. With proper preparation, including packing a comprehensive first aid kit and understanding your options for trip interruption coverage, you’ll be well-equipped for an amazing trekking experience in this beautiful region of Nepal.
For further information or assistance with planning your Mustang trek, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to guide and assist you with the best knowledge possible, ensuring you have all the information you need about mustang trek pricing and preparation.
Want more information? Send us your query, and our experts will get back to you within 24 hrs.
Madhav Prasad is a seasoned trekking and tourism expert with over two decades of experience in the field. Starting his career in 2001 as a porter, Madhav quickly advanced to the role of trekking guide, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in Nepal’s diverse trekking routes. In 2009, after eight years of dedication to the industry, he co-founded Mosaic Adventure, a leading trekking and tour company known for its commitment to safety, sustainability and personalized service.
Madhav has personally trekked to nearly every major trekking destination in Nepal, including Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, the Annapurna Circuit, Poon Hill, Jomsom Muktinath, the Indigenous Peoples Trail, Langtang Valley and Mardi Himal, among others. His experience extends beyond Nepal, as he has also successfully summited Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak.
In addition to his extensive trekking credentials, Madhav is well traveled globally, having explored countries such as Australia, the USA, the UK, France, Japan, China, and many others. His global exposure enhances his ability to understand and cater to the diverse needs of international trekkers.
Madhav is the primary point of contact for many clients at Mosaic Adventure, personally addressing inquiries and helping plan treks with a meticulous and personalized approach. His deep knowledge of Nepal’s trekking routes, combined with his global travel experience, ensures that every trek is well planned, safe and unforgettable.
