Hiring a Jeep for Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang was closed to foreigners until 1992 and still requires a special restricted area permit. The landscape -- a high-altitude Tibetan plateau at 3,800m to 4,000m -- is unlike anything else in Nepal.

Overview

Jeep hire for Upper Mustang starts from Jomsom (2,720m), reached by domestic flight from Pokhara or by trekking the Annapurna Circuit. From Jomsom to Lo Manthang (the ancient walled capital) is roughly 70km of rough jeep track, taking 5 to 7 hours. A shared jeep hire costs NPR 15,000 to NPR 25,000 per vehicle one way. Private hire runs NPR 30,000 to NPR 45,000 one way for a Land Cruiser. Jeeps carry 4 to 6 passengers comfortably. The road passes Kagbeni, Chele, Syangboche, Ghami, and Charang -- each with significant monastery complexes. Basic guesthouses exist in all major villages; Lo Manthang has the best options.

FAQ

Do I need the Upper Mustang permit for the jeep journey? Yes -- all visitors to Upper Mustang (north of Kagbeni) require the USD 500 per 10-day restricted area permit regardless of transport mode.

Can I drive myself? No foreign nationals can self-drive in Nepal -- a licensed Nepali driver must operate the vehicle. All jeep hire operators include a driver.