How To Obtain Upper Mustang Trek Permits?

The Upper Mustang Trek is an exciting journey through the forbidden kingdom of Nepal. The cultural encounter and magnificent landscape scenery along the trek are second to none. However, acquiring Upper Mustang Trek permits is mandatory if you plan to go on this trek.  

Here, we’ll look at the details of the permit types along with the necessary procedures to be made. 

Types of Permits Required

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit

During the Upper Mustang Trek, trekkers must pass through the Annapurna Conservation Area of Nepal. So, acquiring the ACAP permit is mandatory for entering and exiting the conservation area. 

Where to obtain

Trekkers can obtain an ACAP permit either at the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Bhrikuti Mandab of Kathmandu or at the Nepal Tourism Board Service Center in Damside of Pokhara. It can take up to 10 or 15 minutes to obtain the permit by completing the required procedure. 

During the permit application process, you need to fill out the form. So, make sure to fill out the details such as name, passport number, permanent address, etc. correctly. 

Required Documents

Here are the required documents for obtaining the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):

• Passport copy
• Passport-sized photographs (usually 2-4 copies)
• Trekking permit application form (available at the ACAP office or from your trekking agency)
• Trekking route details (entry and exit points, estimated duration)
• Proof of travel insurance (with coverage for trekking activities)
• Fee payment

It’s crucial to note that exact requirements can vary over time, so check with the recent updates online or your trekking agency for the most up-to-date information before your trek.

Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit

While entering the Upper Mustang region, trekkers must acquire a special permit called a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). This permit is compulsory which helps in regulating tourism for safety considerations. 

Where to obtain

Please note that trekkers cannot obtain the special permit independently but can be obtained with the help of a registered trekking agency. 

One needs to apply online with the necessary documentation on the immigration website. After a successful application, the permit is obtained from the Nepal Immigration Office’s Trekking Department. Usually, it requires 2-3 hours to acquire the permit. 

Required Documents

Here are the required documents for obtaining the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP):

• Passport copies of all trekkers in the group
• Passport-sized photographs of each trekker 
• Completed RAP application form
• Proof of travel insurance 
• Fee payment for the RAP (the fee amount may vary based on nationality and duration of the trek)

Criteria for Obtaining the Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

Here are the criteria for obtaining the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP) in bullet points:

• Upper Mustang is classed as a restricted territory in Nepal, demanding a special permit known as the RAP to manage tourism for security reasons.
• Foreigners cannot apply for the RAP on their own; they must submit an application with at least two other people.
• The RAP can only be obtained from government-registered trekking companies. Independent or hired-guide applications are not permitted.
• Solo travelers are eligible to apply for the RAP, but they must find at least one other person to join them and apply together.
• Individual permits are provided; however, the application process needs a minimum group size of two trekkers.
• All trekking groups venturing into the Upper Mustang region are required to have a licensed mountain guide accompanying them at all times during their journey, in addition to obtaining the necessary Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
• Entering the Upper Mustang region without the required RAP and a licensed guide is a violation that may result in legal action or fines.

Upper Mustang Trek Permit Costs

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit

2. Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit

Terms and Conditions for Upper Mustang Trekking Permits

The following are the terms and conditions for getting Upper Mustang trekking permits:

• Children under the age of ten are excluded from permit payments and can obtain them free of charge.
• Permits are non-refundable, non-transferable, good for a single admission, and granted to individual hikers.
• Permits can be obtained only in Kathmandu and Pokhara, not on the walking trail itself.
• Trekkers in the Annapurna Conservation Area must adhere to the regulations established in the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act, 2029 B.S. (1973).
• Trekkers must carry their permits at all times during the trek and display them at checkpoints when requested by authorized officials.
• The permit fees include VAT and any appropriate government taxes.
• Permit holders have the right to enter the designated conservation area and restricted region; all other activities and regions are forbidden.
• Failure to follow the terms and conditions may result in penalties or revocation of the permits.

Do I need a TIMS card to trek in the Upper Mustang?

No. There is no necessity of a Trekkers’ Information Management Systems (TIMS) Card if you have acquired a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). However, if you plan to extend your trek to regions like the Annapurna Region, a TIMS card is mandatory. 

Final Say

Obtaining the proper permits for your Upper Mustang Trek is a simple process provided you follow the regulations and have all of the important paperwork prepared. 

Remember that these permits allow you to enter the area while simultaneously protecting the ecosystem and promoting sustainable tourism practices. You will be ready to obtain permits with proper planning and the assistance of a reputable trekking firm.

Consider partnering with Highroute Adventure for a completely hassle-free permit process. We are experts in Upper Mustang excursions. Our local experience will make obtaining permits uncomplicated, allowing you to focus on the adventure ahead.