The Government of Nepal has announced a major policy reform that will transform trekking access to Upper Mustang, one of the country’s most culturally significant and historically restricted regions. After decades of enforcing a US $500 flat fee for the first 10 days of trekking in the Upper Mustang Restricted Area, the government has officially abolished the old system.
In its place, trekkers will now follow a more flexible and affordable US $50 per person, per day permit structure. This change is expected to boost tourism, stimulate the local economy, and make the region more accessible to a wider range of travelers, especially those who prefer shorter itineraries but were previously deterred by the high upfront cost.
The decision was formally announced by Jagadish Kharel, Minister of Communications and Information Technology and government spokesperson, following a Cabinet meeting held on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. According to the announcement, the new rule will be enacted through amendments to Nepal’s Immigration Regulations, ensuring official, long-term implementation.
What This Means for Travelers?
Trekkers planning to visit Upper Mustang can now expect:
- Lower upfront costs, especially for shorter trips
- Simplified permit processing
- More itinerary options, including day trips to cultural sites
- Reduced financial burden, making Upper Mustang more competitive with other trekking destinations
Travel agencies are already preparing revised packages for 2026 and beyond, aligning with the new pricing structure.
What Was the Old Upper Mustang Trekking Fee?
Before the policy change, every foreign trekker had to pay a flat $500 for the first 10 days. Even if someone planned to visit Upper Mustang for just 3 or 4 days, the cost was still the same: $500.
Quick Facts (Old System)
- $500 for the first 10 days
- $50 per day after 10 days
- Mandatory licensed guide
- Minimum 2 trekkers
- Upper Mustang classified as a restricted area
The high cost stopped many travelers from visiting, especially short-duration trekkers.
Why the Change Was Necessary?
Tourism experts, local communities, and trekking agencies had long advocated for a more flexible and affordable model. Their arguments centered around several key points:
1. Tourism Decline in Upper Mustang
The high entry cost discouraged many travelers, leading to stagnation or decline in annual visitor numbers. Compared to regions like Annapurna or Everest, Upper Mustang remained far less accessible.
2. Economic Pressure on Local Communities
Mustang residents rely heavily on tourism for income. Reduced tourist numbers directly affected hotels, teahouses, guides, porters, transport operators, and local artisans.
3. Inefficiency of the Flat Fee System
Charging a fixed rate regardless of trekking duration was seen as outdated, especially when modern travelers increasingly prefer customizable, short-duration itineraries.
4. Encouraging Fair and Sustainable Tourism
The new per-day model allows the government to maintain regulation while ensuring that tourism remains both sustainable and economically beneficial to local communities.
The New Upper Mustang Trekking Fee: $50 Per Day
Under the new rule, foreign trekkers now pay $50 for each day they stay in Upper Mustang. This makes the region far more affordable, especially for travelers who only want a short cultural or jeep tour.
Key Highlights
- $500 flat fee ➝ replaced
- New rule: $50 per person per day
- Applies to all foreign visitors
- Still requires a licensed guide
- Still requires group of minimum 2 people
- Upper Mustang remains a restricted zone
The new duration-based permit system eliminates this barrier. Trekkers now pay only for the number of days they actually spend in the restricted area, making Upper Mustang more affordable and flexible than ever before. You can find Upper Mustang Trek guide which will make your trekking easier.
Side-by-Side Permit Fee Comparison
|
Category |
Previous System (Flat Fee) |
New System (Daily Fee) |
|
Required Fee |
US $500 (mandatory minimum for 1–10 days) |
US $50 per person, per day |
|
Duration Covered |
Flat fee covered the first 10 days only |
Applies only to the exact days spent in Upper Mustang |
|
Example: 4-Day Visit |
US $500 |
US $200 |
Key Benefits of the New System
- More affordability: Drastically lowers the cost for short itineraries.
- Flexibility: Travelers pay only for the days they stay.
- Encouragement for domestic and international trekkers: Easier access means more visitors.
- Positive economic impact: More footfall supports local businesses and employment.
- Better tourism distribution: Encourages off-season travel, helping stabilize local economies year-round.
Old vs New Fee: Cost Comparison Table
|
Stay Duration |
Old Fee |
New Fee |
Savings |
|
3 Days |
$500 |
$150 |
$350 saved |
|
5 Days |
$500 |
$250 |
$250 saved |
|
7 Days |
$500 |
$350 |
$150 saved |
|
10 Days |
$500 |
$500 |
No change |
|
12 Days |
$500 |
$600 |
Slight increase |
Shorter trips get the biggest benefit under the new Upper Mustang trekking fee system.
New Permit Requirements: Step-by-Step Guide
Even with the new $50 per day fee, Upper Mustang is still a restricted area, so trekkers must follow these official requirements:
1. Select a Licensed Trekking Agency: Only registered Nepali trekking agencies can apply for permits on your behalf. Independent trekking (FIT) is not allowed.
2. Minimum of Two Trekkers: Solo trekking is not permitted. You must travel in a group of at least two foreign nationals.
3. Provide Passport and Visa Copies: Your agency will need clear copies of your passport and valid Nepal visa to process your permits.
4. Apply for Permits: Your agency will submit applications for:
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – Upper Mustang
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
5. Pay the $50 Daily Permit Fee: The fee is now per day, based on your stay in Upper Mustang:
- 4-day trek: $200
- 7-day trek: $350
6. Travel with a Licensed Guide: A licensed guide is mandatory for all trekkers. This ensures safety and protects the region’s culture and environment.
What Stays the Same?
Even though the Upper Mustang trekking fee changed, several rules remain:
- Upper Mustang is still a restricted area
- Group size must be at least 2 people
- Solo trekking is not allowed
- A licensed guide is compulsory
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) is still required
- Travel must be arranged through a registered trekking agency
The change affects only the fee, not the security rules.
Tips for Trekkers Visiting Upper Mustang Under the New Rule
With the new $50 per day permit system, trekking in Upper Mustang is now more flexible and affordable. While the region remains a restricted area, careful planning can make your trip smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. Here are some quick tips to help you get the most out of your journey:
- Plan your trip to avoid unnecessary extra days.
- Confirm your itinerary with your licensed guide.
- Carry enough cash, as ATMs are scarce.
- Respect local culture and monasteries.
- Best trekking seasons: spring (March–May) and autumn (Sept–Nov).
- Pack for dry, windy, and high-altitude conditions.
Final Thoughts
The removal of the old $500 Upper Mustang trekking fee is a major win for travelers. The new $50 per day permit system is fair, flexible, and much more budget-friendly. It will attract more trekkers, boost Mustang’s economy, and make this culturally rich region more accessible to the world.
At the same time, Nepal must ensure that increased tourism does not harm the fragile environment and heritage of Upper Mustang. With proper management, this update can open a new era of sustainable, responsible, and meaningful travel. For more information about Upper Mustang treks, contact Nepal Gateway Trekking.
FAQs
Why did Nepal remove the $500 Upper Mustang trekking fee?
The government removed the flat fee to make Upper Mustang more accessible, attract more trekkers, and boost tourism-driven income for local communities.
How much will a typical Upper Mustang trek cost under the new rule?
The final cost depends on the number of days spent in the restricted area. For example, a 7-day trek now costs $350, instead of the previous mandatory $500.
Do I still need both a RAP and ACAP permit?
Yes. Trekkers still need both permits:
- RAP (Restricted Area Permit)—now $50 per day
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)—still mandatory
Will this change increase tourist numbers in Upper Mustang?
Tourism experts and local authorities expect a significant rise in trekkers, especially short-duration visitors who avoided the previous $500 minimum fee.
Is Upper Mustang safe for first-time trekkers?
Yes, the region is generally safe, especially with the mandatory licensed guide requirement. However, its high altitude means trekkers should acclimatize properly.
Can I customize my itinerary more easily now?
Absolutely. With the daily-based fee system, trekkers have more flexibility to shorten or extend their stay without worrying about large upfront costs.
Will the cultural and environmental protections remain strict?
Yes. Despite the new pricing, Upper Mustang remains a restricted area, ensuring continued protection of its fragile ecosystem, Tibetan Buddhist heritage, and unique landscapes.
