Mustang, Nov 4: A total of 3,393 foreign tourists visited Upper Mustang between January and November 2, 2025, drawn by its unique landscape, living Tibetan culture, and ancient Buddhist heritage, according to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Lomanthang Office.
ACAP Lomanthang Chief Umesh Paudel said that visitors from 65 different countries toured the region during the period. Among them, American nationals topped the list with 301 visitors, followed by tourists from several European and Asian nations.
The highest tourist arrivals were recorded in May (836 visitors), while January saw the lowest (17 visitors), According to ACAP data.
Monthly figures
January – 17, February – 73, March – 242, April – 560, May – 836, June – 185, July – 169, August – 264, September – 277, October – 736, and up to November 2 – 34 visitors
Restricted and controlled tourism zone
Upper Mustang, located within ACAP’s protected area, remains listed as a restricted region for foreign visitors. While Nepali tourists can travel freely, foreign nationals are required to obtain a special entry permit issued by Nepal’s Department of Immigration.
The government charges a permit fee of USD 500 for the first 10 days per foreign tourist. For extended stays beyond 10 days, an additional USD 50 per day is levied as royalty.
Although over 150,000 international tourists visit Mustang annually, only about 3 percent reach Upper Mustang, as most return after visiting Muktinath and Kagbeni, deterred by the high permit fees and restricted access.
Tourism revenue and cultural significance
From January to October 2025, the Nepal government collected approximately USD 1.696 million (around NPR 240.9 million) in tourism royalties from foreign visitors entering Upper Mustang.
The region is known for attracting VIP and high-end travelers seeking cultural and spiritual experiences. Tourists are fascinated by Upper Mustang’s living Tibetan Buddhist traditions, ancient monasteries, and traditional festivals such as Tiji and Yartung, which showcase vibrant costumes, rituals, and local dance performances.
Prominent tourist attractions in the area include the Lomanthang Palace, Jhong Cave, Ghami and Charang Monasteries, Chhoser Cave, and the breathtaking Chhusang cliffs. The centuries-old chortens, mani walls, and stupas across the region highlight the deep spiritual and artistic legacy of Mustang — often referred to as the “Capital of Monasteries.”
In recent years, domestic tourism to Upper Mustang has also surged, with thousands of Nepali travelers extending their Muktinath pilgrimage further north to experience the mystique of this high-altitude Himalayan kingdom. #mustang #nepal #UpperMustang
