Nepal has officially announced one of the biggest policy changes in its restricted-region tourism laws in decades. The government has decided to scrap the long-standing flat permit charge for the Upper Mustang region one of the most culturally significant and environmentally sensitive areas in Nepal.
Under the new rule, the Upper Mustang trekking permit fee will shift from a $500 per person per 10-day period to a daily fee of $50 per person once regulations are amended. This move is expected to make Upper Mustang more accessible while still ensuring controlled tourism.
For trekking enthusiasts, travel bloggers, tour operators, and anyone eyeing a Himalayan adventure, this decision has massive implications. In this detailed guide, we break down what the new Upper Mustang trekking permit fee means, how it affects your travel plans, the broader context behind restricted-area rules in Nepal, and why the industry is applauding this change.
Why Upper Mustang Matters: A Restricted Region With Global Allure
Upper Mustang, often called the Last Forbidden Kingdom, sits near the Nepal–China border close to Korala. Known for its Tibetan-influenced culture, dramatic desert landscapes, ancient caves, and the old walled city of Lo Manthang, it has been one of Nepal’s most exclusive trekking destinations for decades.
Because of geopolitical history and fragile ecosystems, the government designated Upper Mustang a restricted area, requiring special permits and group trekking only. This made the Upper Mustang trekking permit fee one of the highest in Nepal.
Mustang
What Has Changed: New Fee Structure Explained
For decades, the Upper Mustang trekking permit fee was set at:
$500 per person for the first 10 days
$50 per person per day beyond 10 days
This pricing model made the region expensive for short-term trekkers, often limiting the number of visitors.
New rule announced:
A flat $50 per person per day for all foreign trekkers
Effective after amendments are made to the Immigration Regulations
This means you no longer have to pay the initial $500 even if you plan a short trek a major relief for international trekkers.
The government spokesperson, Minister Jagadish Kharel, confirmed the update following the cabinet meeting.
This dynamic per-day structure is more flexible and cost-efficient for most trekkers, making the new Upper Mustang trekking permit fee considerably budget-friendly compared to the earlier system.
Why the Government Changed the Upper Mustang trekking permit fee
There are several strategic reasons behind the reduction:
1. To boost tourist arrivals
After the tourism slump during and after COVID-19, Nepal aims to revive high-value tourism. The earlier high Upper Mustang trekking permit fee discouraged budget-conscious trekkers.
2. To make restricted regions more accessible
Trekking agencies have long requested the government to ease limitations. They believe reducing the Upper Mustang trekking permit fee is just the first step toward opening more restricted regions.
3. To ensure controlled, sustainable tourism
While the permit fee has been reduced, the government still requires trekkers to follow guidelines to protect biodiversity and local culture.
4. To support local economies
Upper Mustang communities rely heavily on tourism for employment and income. Lowering the Upper Mustang trekking permit fee could bring more trekkers, boosting the local economy.
Industry Reactions: What Trekking Agencies Are Saying
The Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) welcomed the change. TAAN President Sagar Pandey said the organization has been urging the government to ease restrictions in restricted areas, and the adjustment to the Upper Mustang trekking permit fee is a major milestone.
However, he also warned against overtourism, noting the region’s fragile biodiversity and cultural heritage.
TAAN further encouraged the government to:
Remove the requirement that trekkers must be in groups of two or more
Allow single trekkers to visit restricted areas (as long as they travel with a licensed guide)
Review permit structures in places like Upper Dolpa
Their stance is clear: while the new Upper Mustang trekking permit fee is a good start, the industry hopes for broader reform.
Understanding Restricted Areas in Nepal: Why the Rules Matter
Nepal has classified several northern border regions as restricted since the 1970s due to geopolitical reasons and the presence of Tibetan Khampa rebels.
Restricted districts include:
Taplejung
Sankhuwasabha
Solukhumbu
Dolakha
Rasuwa
Gorkha
Upper Mustang
Manang
Upper Dolpa
Lower Dolpa
Mugu
Humla
Bajhang
Darchula
These areas require special permits because of:
Sensitive border zones
Cultural preservation needs
Environmental fragility
Past political tensions
The Upper Mustang trekking permit fee reduction indicates Nepal may soon revisit other restricted-area policies.
Current Trekking Permit Fees in Other Restricted Areas
To understand how significant the change to the Upper Mustang trekking permit fee is, look at the current pricing in other regions:
Upper Dolpa
$500 per person for 10 days
$50/day beyond 10 days
Manaslu, Manang, Mugu (Autumn)
$100/week per person
$15/day after a week
Off-season (Dec–Aug)
$75/week
$10/day beyond
Bajhang & Darchula
$90/week
$15/day after
Humla
$50/week
$10/day after
Tsum Valley (Autumn)
$40/week
$7/day beyond
Lower Dolpa, Solukhumbu, Rasuwa, Sinkhuwasabha, etc.
$20/week
Compared to these, the new Upper Mustang trekking permit fee of $50/day is now more aligned with other restricted areas but still maintains exclusivity.
What This Means for Trekkers Planning Upper Mustang Trips
If you’re planning to trek Upper Mustang in 2025 or later, the reduction in the Upper Mustang trekking permit fee is major good news:
1. Short trips become cheaper
Before:
Even a 5-day trek cost $500.
Now:
5 days × $50 = $250
2. Flexible itineraries
You can adjust your travel duration without worrying about high upfront fees.
3. More affordable for photographers, culture researchers, and adventure enthusiasts
These groups often spend longer in Upper Mustang. With the new Upper Mustang trekking permit fee, long stays become more budget-friendly.
4. Better for groups and tour operators
Lower upfront cost can attract more clients and improve sales.
5. Encourages repeat visits
Trekkers may return for festivals like:
Tiji Festival
Yartung Horse Festival
With a reduced Upper Mustang trekking permit fee, repeat visits become realistic.
Will the New Fee Increase Tourism in the Region?
Most likely, yes.
Historically, high permit costs restricted many trekkers from visiting Upper Mustang even though the region is world-famous. As Nepal recorded over 166,394 trekkers in 2024, only 28,894 visited restricted areas, mainly due to the high Upper Mustang trekking permit fee and other restrictions.
Making the region more financially accessible will likely increase:
Total visitor numbers
Lodge and teahouse business
Local employment
Tourism revenue
Awareness of Mustang’s unique culture
However, sustainability remains key. TAAN and local authorities insist on maintaining guide requirements even if the Upper Mustang trekking permit fee becomes more flexible.
Guide Requirement: Still Mandatory
Although the Upper Mustang trekking permit fee will be lowered, trekking rules still apply:
Solo foreign trekkers are still not permitted
Every trekker must be accompanied by a licensed local guide
The trek must be organized through a Nepali trekking agency
This ensures:
Safety in remote landscapes
Controlled tourism
Protection of cultural heritage
Proper permit management
Upper Mustang’s sensitive environment and ancient monasteries need guided oversight.
How the Fee Change Affects Local Communities
Local households in Mustang rely heavily on tourism for:
Transportation services
Lodging and homestays
Local crafts and souvenirs
Meals and hospitality
Guiding and porter services
A lower Upper Mustang trekking permit fee means more trekkers, which directly increases the income of these communities.
Additionally, more tourism could support:
Conservation projects
Infrastructure improvement
Trail maintenance
Cultural preservation
Economic Impact: Why This Decision Supports Nepal’s Economy
Tourism contributes over Rs327.9 billion to Nepal’s economy and supports 1.19 million jobs. In remote regions like Mustang, tourism is often the primary source of income.
By adjusting the Upper Mustang trekking permit fee, Nepal stands to gain:
Higher tourism revenue
More employment in rural regions
Better global image as a trekker-friendly nation
Improved competitiveness against countries like Bhutan and Tibet
Will Other Restricted Areas Get Similar Changes?
According to TAAN and trekking experts, the Upper Mustang decision may be the first step. Many are hopeful that Upper Dolpa and other costly restricted regions will soon see a reduction similar to the new Upper Mustang trekking permit fee.
Possible future changes may include:
Lower permit fees in Upper Dolpa
Removal of mandatory 2-person group rule
Easier procedures for agencies
Seasonal discounts
Nepal aims to strike a balance between sustainable tourism and income generation.
Is It the Right Time to Trek Upper Mustang?
Absolutely and here’s why:
✔ Lower Upper Mustang trekking permit fee
✔ Better affordability
✔ Controlled but more welcoming regulations
✔ A chance to experience authentic Tibetan culture
✔ Safer and more organized trekking environment
Upper Mustang is at the start of a major tourism transformation.
The decision to reduce the Upper Mustang trekking permit fee marks a turning point in Nepal’s restricted-region tourism. It supports trekkers, empowers the local economy, and helps Nepal remain competitive in global adventure tourism.
With the new $50/day model, trekkers now have more flexibility, affordability, and accessibility all without compromising the region’s cultural and ecological integrity.
If you’re planning a trek to Upper Mustang, 2025 and beyond will be one of the best times to go.
