Nepal Reduces Upper Mustang Trekking Fee: What Travelers Need to Know in 2026

published on: 21st Nov, 2025

upper mustang

Nepal Reduces Upper Mustang Trekking Fee: What Travelers Need to Know in 2026

Government of Nepal has officially decided to replace the old US$500 flat fee for Upper Mustang with a flexible US$50 per day tariff. This policy change makes one of Nepal’s most iconic restricted region treks far more accessible and cost-efficient for foreign travelers. Minister for IT and communication Jagadish Kharel, the govt. spokesperson during mentioning the media on the decision of tuesdays cabinet said about this change and will be made after the amendment of Immigration rules as mentioned by The Kathmandu Post on Nov 20, 2025.

If you’re planning to trek to Lo Manthang, Chhoser, or the ancient Trans-Himalayan trails, this is a major update you need to know.

What Has Changed?
Old Rule

Fixed US$500 fee

Valid for 10 days only (even if you stayed fewer days)

New Rule (Effective from 2026)

US$50 per person, per day

Pay only for the exact number of days you spend inside Upper Mustang

Still requires a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and a licensed guide

This is one of the biggest policy shifts in Nepal’s trekking regulations in years.

Why Nepal Changed the Upper Mustang Permit System

The previous US$500 flat fee discouraged many trekkers, especially those planning short 3–5-day visits to Lo Manthang. The government, along with local tourism bodies, pushed for a more logical, per-day system to:

Encourage more trekkers to visit Upper Mustang

Boost tourism revenue for local communities

Allow fair pricing for shorter itineraries

Support sustainable tourism while maintaining controlled entry

How This Impacts Trek Cost in 2026

Shorter Treks Become Much Cheaper Under the new system:

4 days → US$200 (instead of US$500)

6 days → US$300

10 days → US$500 (same as before, but now flexible)

Trekkers no longer have to pay for days they don’t use.

Is Upper Mustang Still a Restricted Region?

Yes.
The new price only changes the fee structure not the rules.

You still need:

Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

A government-licensed trekking guide

A registered trekking agency to handle the paperwork

Mandatory checkpoints at Kagbeni and Lo Manthang

This system keeps the region protected while opening it to more visitors.

Why This Is Great News for Travelers

More Affordable for Everyone

Upper Mustang is no longer a high-budget-only destination.

Perfect for Short Cultural Trips

Travelers who want to visit Lo Manthang or attend festivals like Tiji can now do shorter treks at a lower cost.

Better for Custom Itineraries

You can create flexible routes:

Drive to Lo Manthang + short hikes
4-5 day jeep + trek combo
Cycle or motorbike tours

Strengthens Local Economy

More trekkers = more income for local guesthouses, guides, and communities.

Sample 2026 Upper Mustang Permit Costs

Days in Upper Mustang	Previous Cost	New Cost
3 Days	US$500	US$150
5 Days	US$500	US$250
7 Days	US$500	US$350
10 Days	US$500	US$500

Who Benefits Most from This Change?

Budget trekkers
Travelers doing short trips
Overlanders (4x4, motorbike, cycling)
Photographers
Those visiting for festivals or cultural tours

Should You Plan an Upper Mustang Trek in 2026?

Absolutely.
This policy change makes Upper Mustang one of Nepal’s most attractive trekking regions for the coming years.

Expect:

More affordable trips

Increased flexibility

More customized itineraries

Stronger cultural immersion opportunities

If Upper Mustang was on your bucket list, 2026 is the perfect time to go Book Now.

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Nepal Reduces Upper Mustang Trekking Fee: What Travelers Need to Know in 2026

Nepal Reduces Upper Mustang Trekking Fee: What Travelers Need to Know in 2026

Nepal Reduces Upper Mustang Trekking Fee: What Travelers Need to Know in 2026

If you’re planning to trek to Lo Manthang, Chhoser, or the ancient Trans-Himalayan trails, this is a major update you need to know.