Upper Mustang Trekking FAQ

What is the difference between Upper Mustang and Lower Mustang?

Mustang generally refers to political and administrative division called as a district; one among 77 in Nepal. All places located in Mustang districted are followed by Mustang when the local address is given. Upper Mustang is non- official yet dominant word given to the restricted area. For tourist that lays North West of Kagbeni village till the Korla bordered (Nepal-Tibet bordered) Hence, the whole Upper Mustang is officially a part of Mustang district while Upper Mustang is only the restricted area for foreigners. In trekking terms, non-restricted areas of Mustang district under the Annapurna Conservation area are also known as Lower Mustang. Muktinath, Kagbeni, Jomsom, Marpha, Kalopani and Ghasa are the major town of Lower Mustang.

 

Why Upper Mustang trekking Permit expensive?

Upper Mustang was not open for trekkers since 1992 but when the self-governed Mustang Kingdom decided to welcome foreign visitors, they made an expensive entry fee applicable for all foreigners to collect good amount of revenue for the local government. Later when the monarchy was taken down by people’s movement in 2007 kingdom of Mustang also lost its identity as the last self governed kingdom of Nepal. But the locals and Nepalese authority didn’t lower the permit price in order to retain the peaceful scenario of mustang, rich of ancient heritage and culture. It is 50$ a day for all the foreigners but authentic mustang and its treasure are totally worth being paid to be visited.

 

How much does Upper Mustang trek cost?

If you have 2000 USD you can visit Upper Mustang for two weeks that includes your permits, staff wages, transportation, food, accommodation and basic personal expenses.

How is life style of Upper Mustang locals?

As Upper Mustang share boarder with Tibet, lifestyle of mustang people is largely influenced by typical Tibetan lifestyle. Agriculture, animal husbandry, local trade, tourism and handicraft production are the major occupations of Mustang people. They follow and practice Tibetan Buddhism and celebrate festivals throughout the year. They speak their own dialect but most of them understand Nepali, English and Tibetan languages.

 

Is Mustang similar to Tibet?

Yes, Mustang is a part of Nepal since mid-18^th century, which was a part of southern Tibet. Mustang is also geographically a part of Tibetan plateau having similar kind of landscapes, soil, rocks and vegetation. Since Mustangis are descendants of Tibet, the language, lifestyle, festivals, cultures and peoples DNA are also similar. The ancient monasteries, manmade caves, and other heritage are same as well. The only major difference between Upper Mustang and Tibet is that these places are governed by different nations – Nepal and China.