Official update: On 18 November 2025, the Government of Nepal amended the Immigration Rules and reduced the Upper Mustang trekking permit fee from the old flat-rate $500 (minimum 10 days) to just $50 per person per day. This is the biggest permit price drop in Nepal’s history and makes the legendary “Forbidden Kingdom” dramatically more affordable for 2025 and 2026.

The Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) immediately welcomed the decision, thanking the Ministry of Home Affairs, Department of Immigration, and Nepal Tourism Board for finally listening to years of requests from trekkers and local communities.

Table of Contents

New Upper Mustang Permit Fee – Effective Immediately

  • $50 per person per day (no minimum days required)
  • Pay only for the actual days you stay inside the restricted zone
  • Example costs (permit only): → 8-day fast trek = $400 → 10-day classic trek = $500 → 12-day comfortable pace = $600 → 15-day in-depth cultural tour = $750

This is a saving of $100–$400 for most travellers compared to the old system!

Why the Government Changed the Rule After 30 Years

  • New jeep roads from Jomsom to Lo Manthang have shortened the trek
  • Most groups now finish in 8–14 days instead of the old 16–18 days
  • Trekkers were paying for “ghost days” they never used”
  • Local stakeholders wanted fairer revenue distribution
  • Nepal wants to stay competitive with Bhutan and Tibet tours

TAAN General Secretary Sonam Gyaljen Sherpa said: “Charging by actual days is transparent, sustainable and benefits everyone — tourists save money, and protected areas still receive stable income.”

All Restricted Area Permit Fees in Nepal – Updated November 2025

RegionPermit Fee (Foreigners)
Upper Mustang$50 per day (brand new!)
Upper Dolpa$500 first 10 days + $50/day after
Manaslu (Sep–Nov)$100/week + $15/day after
Manaslu (Dec–Aug)$75/week + $10/day after
Tsum Valley (Sep–Nov)$40/week + $7/day after
Tsum Valley (Dec–Aug)$30/week + $7/day after
Nar Phu Valley (Sep–Nov)$100/week + $15/day after
Humla$50/week + $10/day after
Lower Dolpa$20/week + $5/week after
Makalu Barun$20/week (first 4 weeks)
Kanchenjunga North$20/week (first 4 weeks)

Source: Department of Immigration Nepal

Can I Trek Upper Mustang Solo in 2025?

Still no — the old rule remains: minimum 2 foreign trekkers + licensed guide. However, TAAN has formally requested the government to drop the “minimum two persons” rule completely. Many expect this to change in 2026.

Until then, solo travellers usually join a small group or we can pair you with another trekker at no extra cost.

Upper Dolpo & Others – Will They Might Be Next

TAAN is already pushing for Upper Dolpo to adopt the same $50/day model. Dolpo treks are getting shorter too (thanks to new airstrips and jeep tracks), so the same logic applies.

How & Where to Get Your Upper Mustang Permit

Location: Department of Immigration Address: Kalikasthan, Dillibazar, Kathmandu (5-minute taxi from Thamel) Open: Sunday–Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (winter until 4:00 PM)

Website: www.nepalimmigration.gov.np

Documents needed: passport copy, 2 photos, itinerary, guide licence copy.

Or — the easy way: Book with Mount Elegance Treks and we obtain everything for you in 1–2 days while you relax in Thamel.

Best Time to Trek Upper Mustang 2025–2026

  • Spring: March – May → rhododendrons, clear skies, festivals
  • Monsoon: June – August → green landscapes, very few tourists, Tiji Festival (usually May)
  • Autumn: September – November → crystal-clear mountain views, perfect weather

Tiji Festival 2026 dates: expected 12–14 May (we’ll confirm soon)

Different Ways to Experience Upper Mustang

  1. Classic Teahouse Trek (12–17 days)
  2. Jeep-Supported Trek (8–11 days)
  3. Luxury Lodge Trek (Lo Manthang has 4-star options now!)
  4. Motorcycle Tour
  5. Helicopter + Trek Combo

Recommended 2025–2026 Itineraries by Mount Elegance Treks

What’s Included in a Good Upper Mustang Trip

  • Restricted area permit + TIMS card
  • Domestic flights Kathmandu–Pokhara–Jomsom round trip
  • Private 4×4 jeep support where possible
  • Experienced English-speaking guide + porter
    • All meals during trek, teahouse/lodge stays
  • Emergency oxygen & comprehensive first-aid kit
  • Free duffel bag, sleeping bag, down jacket

Upper Mustang 2025 Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I still need ACAP and TIMS? Yes — ACAP (Annapurna Conservation) NPR 3,000 + TIMS NPR 2,000.

Q: Can I pay the permit in Nepali rupees? No, only USD cash (or equivalent in other convertible currency).

Q: Is Upper Mustang very cold? Daytime 12–20 °C, nights can drop to –5 °C in spring/autumn.

Q: Are there ATMs in Lo Manthang? No — bring enough USD cash from Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Let’s Make Your 2025 Upper Mustang Dream Come True!

The permit price has never been this friendly, flights are running smoothly, and the trails are in excellent condition.

Spring 2025 and Autumn 2025 dates are already 60 % booked. Don’t wait until the last minute!

Get your free personalized itinerary + exact quote (with the new $50/day permit included) today.

Mount Elegance Treks & Expedition

WhatsApp/Call: +977 9841-687937 (24/7)

Email: info@mountelegancetreks.com

www.mountelegancetreks.com

We can’t wait to show you the Last Forbidden Kingdom — easier, cheaper, and more magical than ever before!