Upper Mustang trek is a trekker’s dream trek. But this dream cannot be fulfilled without the Upper Mustang trekking permit as the area is inaccessible without a permit. Protecting the area’s tranquility and cultural legacy is the main goal of the Upper Mustang trekking permit. In the higher elevations of Upper Mustang, the permit restriction helps maintain the pristine environment by preventing visitor overcrowding.
The upper Mustang trek route remained closed to the outside world until 1992. Only a few decades have passed since the Nepalese government removed the prohibition, enabling visitors from other countries to explore the area. Even as of now, the Nepalese government .permits regulate the area. Permits are not the only thing that is required to conquer the Upper Mustang trek because all the trekkers must also travel with a certified guide on their upper Mustang trek.
This action improves safety and helps make this fascinating terrain even more rich, pleasant, and more knowledgeable. Also, these laws and regulations contribute to the preservation of the area and safeguard tourists’ safety. Therefore permit is necessary. It’s advisable to apply for the permit in advance because the procedures and costs for obtaining an Upper Mustang trek permit vary depending on how long you want to spend traveling through this area during your vacation and also the season you might want to trek as off-season permits costs comparatively less than the peak season permits.
Must require permits for the Upper Mustang trek
These are the three must-required Upper Mustang Trekking Permits that you need to delve into the mysterious Upper Mustang region. These trekking permits need to be acquired through a reliable and credible trekking organization. Additionally, for a hassle-free travel experience, it is advised that you obtain these permissions before starting your trek.
Restricted area permit
Many visitors from all around the world visit the Upper Mustang annually. so a restricted area permit which is also known as RAP is necessary to visit this restricted area. With the RAP, you can explore all of the upper Mustang and gain a one-in-a-lifetime experince. This permit regulates the tourism aspect of the upper Mustang region and protects the region’s beautiful natural environment and rich cultural history. Hence foreigners must obtain a restricted area permit (RAP) before they begin their Upper Mustang trek.
You have to take this permit through a reputed and authorized trekking agency as it is not possible to obtain this permit on your own. Hence permit can be obtained from the government of Nepal’s Immigration Office located in either Kathmandu or Pokhara through your trusted trekking agency. Furthermore, the permit can only be acquired in groups or jointly and the minimum no of people in a group must be two people. Trekkers entering and departing the area must provide their Upper Mustang Trekking permits and other valid documentation at the RAP check post.
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Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit
Upper Mustang is located within the Annapurna Conservation Area. Hence, the Annapurna Conservation Area Project also known as (ACAP) permit is required to explore this area. The Annapurna Conservation Area, ACAP is granted for the protection of the ecosystem and maintain the flora, fauna, and natural environment of the region. The permit is required for international as well as domestic tourists to enter the protected area.
The validation of the Annapurna Conservation Area project permit has no set amount of time or days which means that the trekker can spend time as long as they want in the area.
Additionally, this permit can be obtained from the ACAP counter or the Nepal Tourism Board office located in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Trekker’s information management system card
Trekker’s information management system cards also known as TIMS cards are used as a database for trekking and other adventurous activities which supply the vital data of trekkers’ movement and location. Hence, the TIMS card offers information regarding their safety during the journey which also assists in search and rescue missions in case of any accidents during the Upper Mustang trek.
You must apply for a TIMS card from a reputed and trusted trekking organization. Hence you must obtain a TIMS card after you register from your trekking organization with either the Nepal Tourism Board or the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal. The trekkers can also opt for an alternative option which is purchasing a TIMS card through TIMS counters in a trekking zone or can directly obtain the card for a certain fee from the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
To register your details as a trekker, RAP is already adequate. But, if you intend to travel by plane to Jomsom and back, you won’t need a TIMS card. However, it is required for everyone who intends to do ground exploration on their Upper Mustang trek.
Importance of trekking permit
Since Mustang shares its borders with Tibet the area is hugely influenced by the Tibetan cultural heritage the region is also rich in natural habitat. Hence for an Upper Mustang trek, a trekking permit is a compulsory requirement..These permits will help maintain the area’s outstanding ecology and culture while also helping to limit tourists. You are allowed to remain for the entire length of this journey after obtaining the permit. Furthermore, It is also a vital source of funding for conservation efforts. The permits must be obtained through recognized trekking agencies. In addition, explorers also must hire professional guides for the journey to ensure the safety and well-being of the trekkers themselves. Permit requirements also include minimum group sizes and designated hiking routes, which are enforced to prevent overcrowding in Upper Mustang’s high elevations and safeguard the region’s fragile ecology and cultural heritage.
Furthermore, the permits along with the TIMS card record and compile the details of the trekkers in a database which ultimately assists in the rescue operations since it gives precise information on trekkers in times of need. Not only is it required by law, but having a trekking permit in general can also facilitate access to certain areas and amenities, like lodging and local transportation.
Details on the Upper Mustang trekking permits
Compulsory permits – The RAP, ACAP, and TIMS Card are the three necessary permits that every adult traveler needs throughout their Upper Mustang trek whereas children under the age of ten do not need to pay the permit charge as it is free for the younger age group.
Non-transferable and refundable – No other tourists will be allowed to utilize the permits after they are issued in their name because they are non-transferable. Consequently, to visit Upper Mustang, each traveler needs to have a permit that is issued in their name which is valid for a single entry only.
Trekking is prohibited without permits – It’s also crucial to remember that entering the area without the required documentation is prohibited. The authorities may take specific legal action against you or impose a fine if you are discovered trekking without the necessary Upper Mustang permits. Hence, You must keep your entry permits with you for the duration of the trek and present them when requested by the appropriate officials at each checkpoint.
Validity according to the regions – The permits you obtain for your upper Mustang trek are only valid inside that region. If you want to visit other off-limits areas you will need to have special permits for those areas. You are required to follow the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Acts when you enter the Annapurna Conservation Area for the preservation and conservation of the ecosystem of the area.
Validity of permits – Every permit has a set period of validity. The 10-day validity of RAP can be extended with an added fee. However, the TIMS Card and ACAP are valid for the whole time of your expedition. Only specific offices in Kathmandu and Pokhara are authorized to issue entry permits whereas checkpoints along the trekking route are not authorized to do so.
Essential item – Throughout the walk, you will need to present your permits at several checkpoints. As such, you will need to bring it with you for the entire Upper Mustang trek. Also, the Value Added Tax and any applicable government taxes are included in the permit prices. Hence, one should fully utilize it for the price paid.
Conclusion
Nepal’s Upper Mustang region is a unique, remote area with an intriguing culture. Trekkers can expect an amazing experience from the journey. Throughout the journey, it provides travelers with an incredible experience through rich natural and cultural aspects. Upper Mustang trek may come at a higher cost. However, the region’s distinctive natural and cultural heritage makes it worthwhile.
The permit fee and trek fee for the Upper Mustang trek vary according to several factors For example, how long you want to stick around the area, what kind of amenities are you looking for, what season are you looking to travel in, and many more. Apply for permits in advance and select the ideal time for a better experience, as the Upper Mustang permit fee can be somewhat costly according to seasons.
