Explore Upper Mustang on an all-terrain jeep tour that offers an exclusive adventure that lasts a lifetime. It provides the safest and most comfortable way to travel to the remote kingdom of Nepal, known as the ‘Last Forbidden Kingdom’. During the Upper Mustang jeep tour, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the region’s history, traditions, culture, and natural diversity. Notably, the Upper Mustang was recognized through a National Geographic Channel report and placed on the UNESCO waiting list for recognition as a World Heritage Site. So its popularity and number of visitors continue to increase day by day.
Upper Mustang is comprised of the northern two-thirds of the Mustang District in Gandaki Pradesh, Nepal. Upper Mustang’s strategic location has allowed them to dominate commerce between India and the Upper Himalayas for generations. The terrain of Nepal and Upper Mustang is starkly different; the latter closely resembles the Tibetan countryside. It is located in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
Upper Mustang has a semi-arid environment due to its placement in the rain shadow zone, resulting in primarily barren terrain. The terrain includes tiny settlements and Buddhist prayer flags, which offer brilliant splashes of color to the otherwise harsh Himalayan environment. Due to the high heat, vegetation is limited. With its interesting caverns, old monasteries, and small lanes conveying the fascinating narrative of a strange ancient nation, Lo Manthang will transport you to another dimension.
Further details on the Route:
The Upper Mustang Jeep Tour places you right in the middle of unspoiled, magnificent Himalayan scenery. The landscape gradually becomes drier and more dramatic as you climb, providing your senses with amazing views. Your adventure starts in Pokhara, which is about six beautiful hours from Kathmandu.
Kagbeni is the next stop on this fascinating adventure. You’ll pass via Tukuche, Marpha, and Jomsom on the route. As one gets closer to Kagbeni, there are fewer indications of human settlement, with Thakali and Gurung communities dispersed over the countryside. Views from the lofty vantage point are breathtaking and captivating.
As you continue your journey, you will cross the passes of Sammar, Dajong La, Bhena La, and Syangboche La before arriving at Ghilling. Beyond Ghilling is Tsarang, and from there you will eventually arrive at Lo Manthang, the anxiously awaited capital of Upper Mustang, also known as the “Forbidden Kingdom.”
Your trusty vehicle in Lo Manthang acts as your tour guide as it takes you around the walled city and the alluring Kora La. Retracing your steps on the way back gives you the chance to savor Marpha’s delicious apples and apple-based delights. A stop to the famed Muktinath temple, which is adored by both Hindus and Buddhists, is necessary along the journey. It gives a highly spiritual experience and is located at the majestic altitude of 3800 meters above sea level.
A strong jeep easily navigates the road’s small dirt tracks, steep hills, and abrupt twists, despite the problems they may bring. The breathtaking splendor of this extraordinary place more than makes up for the rough terrain. In the end, the experiences you had on your Upper Mustang Jeep Tour will remain indelible and genuinely unforgettable in your heart.
Trip Highlights:
1. Explore the historic Kingdom of Lo Manthang.
2. The magnificent views of snow-capped mountains, such as Lamjung Himal, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Mt. Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna II–IV, Dhaulagiri, and others.
3. The region’s breathtaking natural features, such as the waterfalls, rivers, glaciers, glacial ice, lakes, and others.
4. Exploring the region’s distinctive, arid, desert-like landscapes.
5. Exploration of the nearby gompas, monasteries, and old towns.
6. View Tibetan influences in action as they are visible in the inhabitants’ daily lives and cultures.
7. Exceptional hospitality and sampling the locals’ delicious cuisine.
Best Time for Upper Mustang Jeep Tour:
The jeep tour is more convenient and easier to enjoy the beauty of Mustang than hiking across the region. Since dramatic temperature swings are avoided that occurs all the year. However, driving on the dirt road during the winter months can be difficult owing to high snow cover, considerably increasing the danger of sliding and slipping. The rainy season may also cause problems with road conditions, with several landslides and slippery roadways.
Upper Mustang is best explored between March and November. Clearer sky and snow-capped peaks provide for a stunning scene throughout this season. During this time, the terrain is alive with colorful flora, resulting in breathtaking vistas. Furthermore, daytime temperatures are pleasant, guaranteeing a pleasurable excursion
Fee & Permits for the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour:
Upper Mustang was off-limits to tourists until 1992, when it was reopened. As a result, it has an untouched and well-preserved ecosystem. Nonetheless, tourism in this area is rapidly booming, with an increasing number of trekkers and vacationers visiting this unique site by vehicle. Permits and fees needed for this tour:-
1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): It costs approximately USD 30 per person and can be obtained from either Kathmandu or Pokhara.Â
2. Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Upper Mustang: It costs USD 500 for the first 10 days per person and If you want to extend your stay, you will be charged USD 50 per day per person for each extra day of stay. You must arrange the RAP through a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu or Pokhara, but it’s typically included in your tour package.Â
3. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Entry Fee: It costs approximately USD 25 which you should pay when entering the Annapurna Conservation Area, which you pass through during the journey.Â
In addition to the permits, there might be surcharges imposed by the local government or authorities, especially if you’re traveling during festivals or special events. These fees can vary
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