Nepal Visa Information

Visa in Nepal can be acquired on arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu and also at the border entry points in Kakadvitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Gaddachowki border of Nepal - India and Kodari on Nepal-China border. Visa can also acquire at the nearest Nepal Embassy. For visa renewal purpose you can contact at Department of Immigration, Kalikasthan at Kathmandu. A valid passport and one passport -size photo with a light background is required. Visa can be obtained only through payment of cash in the following currency: Euro, Swiss Franc, Pound Sterling, US Dollar, Australian Dollar, Canadian Dollar, Hong Kong Dollar, Singapore Dollar and Japanese Yen. Credit card, Indian currency and Nepali currency are not accepted as payment of visa fee.

Visa Facility         Duration       Fee

Multiple entry       15 days          US$ 30 or equivalent convertible currency

Multiple entry       30 days          US$ 50 or equivalent convertible currency

Multiple entry       90 days          US$ 125 or equivalent convertible currency

Gratis (Free) Visa

For first visit in one visa year (January to December), gratis visa for 30 days is available only for nationals of South Asian countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. However, the visa can be extended from the department of immigration with respective fares.

 Indian nationals do not require visa to enter into Nepal.

More Information

Nationals from Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine and Afghanistan will need to obtain visa from Nepal Embassies or Diplomatic Missions in their respective countries, as they do not get visa on arrival at the immigration entry points of Nepal. 

PAPERWORK AND MONEY ON THE TRAIL

● Minimum 06 months Valid Passport (needed at entry gate for registration)

● Spending Money for personal use 

● 3 Passport Size Photo (Needed for trekking permit)

OTHER ITEMS

● Portable Solar Charger

● Journal, pen and paper

Equipment Buy in Kathmandu

If you have not brought any of these equipment then you can also buy this in Kathmandu as well. If you need help our guides will help you to buy the trekking gears in Kathmandu. You can find the wide range of varieties while buying the trekking gears in Kathmandu. The qualities of the trekking gears are similar to that you get in your countries. You can also find medium quality gears at cheaper rates as well. You can find all types of trekking gears in Thamel which is the main street for backpackers and trekkers in Nepal. 

Equipment Hire in Kathmandu.

You can also hire the equipments and trekking gears in Kathmandu as well. But we recommend you to bring your own equipments as far as possible. You will have a better experience in your own equipment's’ rather that hiring the used equipments’. However, hiring trekking gears can be a great idea for backpackers and budgeted trekkers since hiring trekking gears can be a lot cheaper than buying.  Have a look to the cost of hiking and trekking gears in Kathmandu. 

Staying Healthy 

Staying healthy and fit is very important when you are trekking to one of the most strenuous trekking destinations. You need to be very careful about your health and health related problems. Here are the following tips you can use to stay healthy during  Trek.

• Eat proper and healthy diets.
• Avoid eating meat and meat products more often.
• Drink a lot of water.
• Don’t drink water direct from the resources or without purifying.
• Starting exercising a month prior to the trek.
• Take your regular medicines with you. 

Take Care of your Feet.

Taking care of your feet is a must when you are going on a trek. Not taking proper care of your feet can ruin your trek. To take care proper care of your feet the following tips might be helpful.

• Buy good quality comfortable shoes.
• Clip Your Toenails
• Apply Powders/Creams/Tapes
• Wear the Right Socks
• Wash your feet regularly.
• Soak your feet for at least 10- 20 minutes at the end of the day.

Getting a Good Night Rest

As it is said ‘Early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy and wise’, getting a proper goodnight sleep is very important for everyone. During the trek since your body gets tired after walking all day long a proper sleep is a must. You need to sleep for at least 7-8 hours. A good night sleep helps your body to take rest and recollect the energies that you’ve lost during your trek. For a better sleep we recommend you to carry a sleeping bag with you. The sleeping bag will be provided by the company or you can carry your own if you have. Sleeping Bag is necessary especially when you are trekking to Everest Base Camp because since only basic accommodations are available the blankets might not be enough for you. 

Acclimatization & Sickness.

Acclimatization is very important when you are trekking to an altitude of more than 3500m.  Proper acclimatization helps to reduce the chances of Altitude Sickness. The itinerary is designed with proper acclimatization that will help your body to adopt the lower oxygen content in the air. Once you reached an altitude of 5000m the oxygen content in the air is less than 50% than that of the sea level. One of the main causes of altitude sickness is staying too long at high altitude without proper acclimatization. If in case you suffer from altitude sickness, the guides will notice the symptoms and then drop you to the lower altitude immediately. You have to inform to your guide if you notice any discomfort or symptoms of AMS. Major altitude sickness might need emergency helicopter rescue so make sure your travel insurance covers all the risk including helicopter rescue. 

Note: If you suffer from altitude sickness in the mountain and still want to continue the trek then you can directly call to the office or ask you guide to call to office and make arrangements. In such case you may have to stay at the mountains for some extra days so we suggest you to have at least three extra days than your trek schedule. We charge $70 for extra days in the mountains. Since, there are several groups trekking from the company it is possible for you to join another group during peak seasons. However, it might not be possible during off season and you may have to pay extra charge for the porters and guide. 

To know about the symptoms of Altitude sickness the following content might be helpful.

Know about Altitude 

Hiking or trekking to high altitudes can result altitude sickness and sometimes can be severe as well. So, it is better to have proper acclimatization and stay hydrated and have proper balance diets while trekking to higher altitudes. 

Symptoms of High Altitude sickness

The symptoms of altitude sickness depend upon various factors. These are the primary symptoms of Altitude sickness that can be cured immediately with certain precautions

• lack of appetite, nausea, or vomiting
• exhaustion or weakness
• dizziness and insomnia
• pins and needles
• shortness of breath upon exertion
• feeling sleepy
• general malaise
• swelling of the hands, feet, and face

If the primary symptoms are left untreated it may result to a serious altitude sickness which may need emergency rescue. The following are the major symptoms of AMS. 

• fever
• A constant headache that doesn’t respond to any painkillers.
• increased vomiting
• constant dry cough often with pinkish sputum
• numbness and dizziness
• gradual loss of consciousness

Physical Condition & Experience Requirements

No prior training and experience is required to do Everest Base Camp Trek. But, if you have trekking experience anywhere in the world then it can be an added point to your trek to Everest Base Camp. If you can walk up to 6-7 hours a day in an unfamiliar terrain then you can easily trek to Everest Base Camp. It is better if you start taking energy boosting diets and doing some physical exercise a month before the trek. All you need to have is strong willingness and ability to overcome the challenges.

Do and Do Not

Here are some of the things that you have to keep in mind while trekking to Nepal.

Do’s

• Walk slowly 
• Drink purified or boiled water.
• Eat healthy foods.
• Get proper Acclimatization.
• Respect local culture and people.
•  Bring your regular medicines and first aid kit. 

Don’ts

• Don’t Get to enthusiastic 
• Don’t drink water direct from resources.
• Eat Junk Foods 
• Neglect the signs of altitude sickness.
• Disrespect the local culture and traditions. 

Solo Travelers.

The numbers of Solo travelers are increasing rapidly in recent few years in Nepal. Nepal, being a beautiful and peace loving country is also one of the safest countries for solo travelers. However, the cost for solo traveler might be expensive since single supplement is very difficult to find and are expensive as well in the mountain regions. 

Is Solo Travelers Safe in Nepal?

Nepal is one of the safest countries to travel in the world. We see numbers of solo travelers around the streets of the city and trekking areas. Tourism related crimes in Nepal are very less and we Nepalese treat our guests as gods. Even though, it is safe but still you need to be careful while walking to the cities alone during the mid night and we recommend you to hire a guide while trekking. 

Is Female Solo Travelers safe in Nepal? 

Nepal is generally considered safe for women travelers. Nepal might have a conservative society but the people are open to every kind of cultures which helps to stay true. There haven't been many serious crimes against tourists since few years. Yet, travelers are requested to have considerable care while travelling.

Can you trek in Nepal without a guide?

Nepal requires the use of guides and porters such as in some of the regions such as Inner Dolpo, Kanchenjunga and Upper Mustang due to the areas being restricted. However, places such as the Annapurna Conservation Area and Everest Base Camp do not require guides. But we highly recommend to at least having a guide with you. Since, hiring a guide is very cheap in Nepal and it is not safe to travel alone in the mountain region you need to hire a guide for your personal safety. 

Required Permits for Trekking 

The permit required for  Trek like Sagarmatha National Park Permit, and TIMS card will be managed by the company itself. For this you will need to submit your passport sized photo (2 copies) and a photocopy of your passport in the office.

Communication during Everest Base Camp Trek.

For some trekking can be a short break from social medias and internet whereas for some internet and communication is a means to stay connected with near and dear ones during trekking. While travelling in the remotest areas you may not have facilities of telephone and internet. However, in recent days the Internet and Communication facilities during your trek to Nepal is improving rapidly. The region now has 3G and 4G coverage as well.

Satellite phone 

If you want to have the best networks throughout your trek to AnnapurnaBase Camp you can use satellite phone throughout the trial. You can rent the sat phones or bring your own. 

Wi-Fi

Most of the tea houses and lodges now provide Wi-Fi service. You can get free Wi-Fi in some of the lodges. But most of the lodges take extra charge for Wi-Fi. They charge you normally $5 for unlimited Wi-Fi coverage. However, the speed of the internet may not be faster like that of the cities. 

Mobile data 

Mobile Data can be the cheaper way to get in touch with your family and friends in the Annapurna  Region. You can buy a local sim card from a private company in Nepal and activate your data. The cost od data pack varies per MB. A telecommunication company in Nepal, NCELL has launched 3G connectivity since 2010.  So you can have a better internet experience in the Annapurna Region through mobile data as well. 

Nepalese Rupee is used all over Nepal.

Can I use Indian Currency in Nepal?

 Some of the shops and hotels also accept Indian currency but the Indian currency of, Rs 200, Rs. 500 and Rs.2000 rupees denominations has been banned in Nepal. 

How can I get currency in Nepal?

Your travel agent or hotel and they can help you exchange your cash into Nepalese rupees as per the exchange rate generated by Nepal Rastra Bank. This is the easiest way to exchange currency in Nepal. However, if you have a traveler's check you need to visit one of the major banks to do so.

What is the exchange rate of Nepalese Currency?

The tentative exchange rate of Nepalese Currency by Nepal Rastrya Bank is shown in the table below. However, the rates keep on fluctuating so it is better to check the rates while exchanging the currencies when you are in Nepal. 

Nepal Travel Tips

Choosing Nepal as your travel destination is one of the best decision that one has to take once in a life. As Nepal offers you so many wonderful travel destinations, fun, adventures and much more once in Nepal is not enough but you have to be well planned and informative about your activities in Nepal before you take off. Nepal is naturally and culturally diverse country and has its distinct identity to the world. Here are some of the travel tips which may help you before you plan your trip for Nepal. 

How to enter Nepal?

You can fly to Nepal from your nearest international airport or you can fly to India and get a direct bus to Kathmandu. Many countries now have a direct flight to Kathmandu. During peak tourist season the tickets gets expensive in this case you can book your ticket early or another cheap option is to fly to India and get a bus or flight.

Get a visa or be prepared for queues at the Airport

Nepalese visa can be obtain at Tribhuvan International Airport on arrival but don’t expect it that easy in peak tourist seasons. You will have to queue for a long time and complete certain procedures, pay fee and then you will get your visa. It is better if you get your visa from an embassy before coming to Nepal. And you might have to wait to collect your baggage for an hour minimum depending the time of your arrival.

Kathmandu’s Pollution “Sorry to share “

Kathmandu being a capital of Nepal is also one of the most populated cities in the world. Nepal is a beautiful country but you may find the capital city a bit different than the rest of Nepal. It’s not that Kathmandu is the worst city but also not as better as the areas you will visit. Because it is the capital of Nepal and major hub for the people all over Nepal you can see the chaos of people in the market areas and because a lot of construction works are going on you may find the city polluted. So, we advise you to wear a mask while roaming around the city.   

UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

 Once you visit in Nepal don’t forget to visit the UNESCO world heritage sites and do make your itinerary accordingly. The heritages sites are full of history, fine arts, cultures and crafts and you won’t regret visiting it.  There are numbers of world heritage sites in Nepal rich in art and cultures which are very important to be taken care of not only for Nepal but for the whole world. The major sites inside Kathmandu valley are Pashupatinath Temple, Soyambhunath Stupa (monkey temple), Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Changunarayan Temple and many more. Visiting the UNESCO world heritage site is a must if you are visiting Nepal. 

Don’t Drink Tap Water 

Nepalese are used to drinking water directly from the tap or any sources of water so they don’t get affected. But it is better if you avoid drinking water directly from the tap or any except boiled and bottled mineral water because you are not used to it and it may affect your health. After all ‘Prevention is better than Cure’. 

Foods in Nepal 

Along with so many adventures and exciting travel destinations, Nepal also offers you with so many varieties of delicious cuisines. Do try varieties of foods while travelling to Nepal and give your taste buds a different and a unique taste. You will also find numbers of restaurants serving international cuisines and have the pleasure of trying world famous dishes in Nepal. 

Electricity and Internet in Nepal 

The electricity problem has been improving in context of few years ago but still there might be load shedding. The hotels have inverter and generators so there might not be problem in city areas. To stay connected via internet you can buy the local Sim- card. The internet facilities have been improving in Nepal you can get wifi in almost all of the hotels and cafes but the speed might not be as per your expectations but works satisfactory. 

Safer to travel with an agency in Nepal 

It is not that riskier to travel alone as we see numbers of solo travelers along the streets but if you travel with an agency it is much more comfortable and safer for you. You will not need to worry about documentations, accommodations, transportation and many more. There is also very less chance of getting lost or theft. After all ‘Prevention is better than cure’.  

Contribute to the Locals.

As Nepal is a developing country the per capita income of the people here is very lower than other many countries. If you are travelling to the remote areas then we suggest you to stay in home stays. As it is the source of income for most of the people and your small contribution will help to boost up the local economy. 

Responsible Travel:

“Leave only foot-prints, take only photographs” is our principle. We are striving in promoting sustainable tourism. Therefore, our clients are requested to follow minimum impact code while in the trip so that both host (local nature, culture and people) and the travelers benefit for the indefinite years ahead. Our clients are highly encouraged to preserve and conserve nature and natural beauty, respect local people and culture, privacy, stop pollution, protect wildlife and conserve forest. The guests will keep their eyes, ears and mind open, not only to learn from their hosts, but also encourage right behavior. Hence, be a good example for others; spread the word about sustainable tourism.

Travel insurance is compulsory for all our clients traveling with our company. The Nepalese Insurance company doesn’t have travel insurance for foreign people so we recommend you to bring the legal documents with you while coming to Nepal. Your travel insurance must cover the loss due to theft, injury, delay; inconveniences or any other and the company should not have any liabilities for your personal loss. Make sure your travel insurance also compensate emergencies helicopter evacuation in case of emergencies. 

Food and accommodation during an Upper Mustang jeep tour can vary based on the tour operator, the level of service you choose, and the specific itinerary.

Here's a general overview of what you can expect:

Food: During the tour, you can expect a mix of local Nepali cuisine and international dishes, with an emphasis on providing nourishing meals for trekkers. Meals are usually provided at teahouses, lodges, or guesthouses along the route. A typical day's meals might include:

• Breakfast: Breakfast options often include items like eggs, bread, pancakes, porridge, muesli, tea, and coffee.

• Lunch: Lunch might consist of items like rice, noodles, pasta, vegetables, lentils, and some meat options.

• Dinner: Dinner typically includes similar options as lunch, with additional dishes such as soups, stews, and curries.

It's important to note that the availability of certain ingredients and dishes might vary based on the location and the resources of the teahouse or lodge. Always inform your tour operator if you have specific dietary preferences or restrictions, and they will do their best to accommodate your needs.

Accommodation: Accommodations in the Upper Mustang region can vary from basic teahouses to more comfortable lodges, depending on the route and the tour package you choose.

Here are the common types of accommodations:

• Teahouses: Basic teahouses provide simple rooms with shared facilities like bathrooms and toilets. Bedding might be provided, but you might need to use your own sleeping bag or rent one.

• Lodges: Some areas offer more comfortable lodges with private or shared rooms and attached bathrooms. These lodges might provide amenities like hot showers, electricity, and dining facilities.

• Campsites: In some cases, if you're camping during the tour, tents and camping equipment will be provided. Camping can be a unique experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.

As you are in Jeep Tour to Upper mustangm, You only need a professional guide which lead you to nevigate  to the upper mustang, make arrangement of your needs, help you to communicate with the local peoples and assist you in each and every necessary permit procedures.

Porter will be replaced by your hired jeep but incase of urgency as the vehicle has to repair, you need to walk till the hotel for accommodation, in that time you need a porter to carry your luggage.

Actual Adventure Pvt. Ltd provide you a services that included inside your package.

You can have the detailed information of our guides in the company’s Trip Management Team (Field Staff). 

Proper equipment and packing is very necessary during the trek. No proper trekking gears can ruin your trekking experience. You will need following trekking gears and equipment’s for Trek.

Summary 

• Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer

• Down vest and/or jacket (optional)

• Fleece or wool trousers/pants

• Trekking/Hiking boots with spare laces

• Thick, warm wool hiking socks

• Footwear for around camp, example, running shoes and/or sandals

• Gaiters (optional)

• Thermal tops

• Fleece jacket or pullover

• Wind cheater jacket (optional)

• Waterproof shell jacket

• Thermal gloves

• Underwear

• Shorts

• Cotton trousers/pants

• Thermal bottoms

• Sun hat or scarf or Hat or light balaclava

• T-shirts

• Socks

• Sunglasses with UV protection (opt to but this at your home country)

• Sleeping bag rated to 0 degrees (3/4 season)

• Head lamp, spare bulbs & batteries

• Small padlock to lock trek bag

• Plastic bags

• Daypack (35-40 litres/2500-3000 cubic inches)

• Camping mattress

• Water bottles

• Small wash towel

• Footwear (see footwear section below for details)

• Waterproof shell trousers/pants (preferably breathable fabric)

• Toiletries

• Basic first aid kit

Yes, there is a risk of altitude sickness during the Upper Mustang jeep tour, especially as you ascend to higher altitudes. Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), can occur when you ascend to elevations above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). The Upper Mustang region reaches altitudes exceeding 3,800 meters (12,500 feet), so it's important to be aware of this risk and take necessary precautions.

Altitude sickness occurs due to the reduced oxygen levels at higher elevations. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and might include headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, and difficulty sleeping.

To minimize the risk of altitude sickness during your Upper Mustang jeep tour, consider the following tips:

Proper Acclimatization:

Gradually ascend to higher altitudes, allowing your body time to acclimatize. Spend an extra day at intermediate altitudes to help your body adjust.

Stay Hydrated:

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, but avoid excessive amounts in a short period of time.

Avoid Alcohol and Smoking:

Alcohol and smoking can contribute to dehydration and exacerbate altitude-related symptoms. It's best to avoid them during the trek.

Eat Nutritious Meals:

Consume balanced and nourishing meals to provide your body with the energy it needs.

Follow Your Guide's Advice:

Experienced guides are knowledgeable about altitude sickness and will monitor your condition. Follow their advice regarding the trekking pace and acclimatization days.

Identify Symptoms:

Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and inform your guide if you experience any discomfort.

Medications:

Consult a healthcare professional before your trek about medications that might help prevent or alleviate altitude sickness. Some trekkers use acetazolamide (Diamox) under medical guidance.

Rest:

Allow your body to rest and recover, especially during acclimatization days.

The best seasons for visiting Upper Mustang are the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer favorable weather conditions and stunning landscapes, making them the most popular times for trekking and touring in the region. Here's a breakdown of the advantages of each season:

Spring (March to May):

• Moderate Temperatures: Spring offers mild temperatures during the day and cooler nights, making it comfortable for trekking.
• Clear Views: The skies are generally clear, providing excellent visibility of the Himalayan peaks and surrounding landscapes.
• Flowering Season: The rhododendron and other wildflowers are in full bloom, creating colorful and picturesque landscapes.
• Cultural Festivals: Spring is a time of cultural celebrations, and you might have the chance to witness local festivals and ceremonies.

Autumn (September to November):

• Stable Weather: Autumn is characterized by stable weather conditions, with clear skies and minimal rainfall.
• Panoramic Views: The crisp air and clear skies offer exceptional panoramic views of the mountains and landscapes.
• Harvest Season: Autumn is the harvest season, and you'll see locals working in the fields and terraced farms.
• Moderate Temperatures: Like spring, autumn provides comfortable temperatures for trekking during the day and cooler nights.

The road to Upper Mustang is characterized by its unique challenges and rugged terrain. It's important to understand that the road conditions can vary significantly based on factors such as weather, maintenance, and construction efforts. Here are some key points to consider about the road to Upper Mustang:

Unpaved and Rough:

The majority of the road to Upper Mustang is unpaved, and you can expect rough sections with gravel, rocks, and uneven surfaces. This can result in a bumpy and jarring ride, especially during certain parts of the journey.

Narrow and Winding:

The road is often narrow and winding, hugging the mountainside. There might be sharp turns, switchbacks, and sections where only one vehicle can pass at a time. Drivers need to be skilled and experienced in navigating these challenging roads.

River Crossings:

Some sections of the road require crossing rivers via makeshift bridges or through shallow riverbeds. The conditions of these crossings can change based on the season and recent weather.

Altitude:

The road ascends to high altitudes as you enter the Upper Mustang region. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so it's important to acclimatize properly and be prepared for the effects of higher elevations.

Weather Impact:

The road conditions can be affected by weather, especially during the monsoon season (June to August) when heavy rainfall can lead to landslides and road closures. Snowfall during winter months can also affect road accessibility.

Construction and Maintenance:

Efforts are ongoing to improve and maintain the road infrastructure, but it's essential to be prepared for sections of the road that are under construction or undergoing maintenance.

Permit Requirements: T

o access the Upper Mustang region, you'll need special permits. These permits come with regulations and fees. Be sure to have all necessary documentation and permits before embarking on the journey.

Local Guidance:

Having a local guide who is familiar with the road conditions, local customs, and the area's geography can greatly enhance your safety and overall experience.

Vehicle Suitability:

Four-wheel-drive vehicles (jeeps or SUVs) are recommended for the journey due to the challenging road conditions. These vehicles are better equipped to handle the rough terrain and river crossings.

Adventure and Rewards:

Despite the challenging road conditions, many travelers find the journey to Upper Mustang to be an adventurous and rewarding experience. The breathtaking landscapes, cultural interactions, and unique environment make it a journey of a lifetime.

Upper Mustang is restricted due to its unique cultural and historical significance, as well as its delicate ecological balance. This remote region of Nepal was a former kingdom with its own distinct Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions, making it a living museum of ancient traditions and art. To preserve its heritage, the Nepalese government designated Upper Mustang as a "Restricted Area" requiring special permits to enter. This helps control tourism, conserve the region's delicate environment, and safeguard its cultural treasures, ensuring that its beauty and authenticity are preserved for future generations.

Whether or not the Upper Mustang trek is worth it depends on your interests, preferences, and what you're seeking in a travel experience. The Upper Mustang trek is considered unique and has its own distinct appeal, making it worthwhile for certain types of travelers:

Cultural Exploration:

If you are passionate about immersing yourself in rich cultures, ancient traditions, and unique architecture, Upper Mustang offers a chance to experience a blend of Tibetan Buddhist culture and history that is not as easily found in other parts of Nepal.

Historical and Architectural Enthusiasts:

The region is dotted with ancient monasteries, caves, and palaces that hold historical and architectural significance. If you're intrigued by historical sites and ancient art, the trek provides a chance to explore these treasures.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure:

Upper Mustang is relatively less traveled compared to other trekking regions in Nepal, which can be appealing if you're seeking a more remote and less touristy experience.

Unique Landscapes:

The stark landscapes of Upper Mustang, with its rugged terrain, colorful cliffs, and desert-like features, create a dramatic backdrop for your trek.

Restricted Region Experience:

The fact that Upper Mustang is a restricted area adds an air of exclusivity to the experience, making it attractive to those who want to explore lesser-known places.

Entering Upper Mustang as a non-Nepali requires special permits and regulations due to its restricted status. Non-Nepali citizens must obtain a "Special Restricted Area Permit" and travel with an organized trekking agency or tour operator. Additionally, entry is typically allowed only in groups, and trekkers must follow specific routes and guidelines set by the Nepalese government. While the permit process adds a layer of administrative complexity, it is designed to ensure the preservation of the region's cultural heritage and delicate environment, making the experience of entering Upper Mustang as a non-Nepali a carefully regulated yet unique opportunity to explore this culturally rich area.

The cost of a 13-day Upper Mustang jeep drive tour can vary widely based on several factors, including the tour operator, inclusions, accommodations, permits, transportation, and the level of service you choose. Generally, a guided Upper Mustang jeep drive tour, including permits, accommodations, meals, transportation, and guide services, can range from approximately $2,000 to $3000 or more per person. This cost might also include airport transfers, sightseeing, and other additional services.

It's important to note that the cost can be influenced by:

Inclusions:

Some tours might include more services, such as pre-trek accommodations in Kathmandu, guided sightseeing, and post-trek arrangements.

Quality of Accommodations:

The level of accommodations, from basic teahouses to more comfortable lodges or even luxury options, can affect the overall cost.

Group Size:

The cost might vary based on whether you're joining a group tour or having a private tour.

Permits and Fees:

The cost of permits, including the Special Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang, are additional expenses that need to be factored in.

Travel Season:

High season (spring and autumn) might have higher costs due to increased demand, while the low season (monsoon) might have lower costs.

Guide and Support Staff:

Having experienced guides, drivers, and support staff can impact the cost.

Travel Insurance:

It's recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance, which adds to the overall cost.

Optional Activities:

Side trips, additional excursions, and personal expenses can also influence the final cost.

Upper Mustang is expensive primarily due to its restricted status, requiring special permits with substantial fees to preserve its cultural heritage and environment, limited accessibility leading to higher transportation and logistical costs, the need for experienced guides and support staff familiar with the area's history and customs, the necessity of maintaining basic infrastructure in a remote region, the challenges of altitude and acclimatization requiring additional facilities and medical support, and the demand for exclusivity and sustainability measures that contribute to responsible tourism practices. Despite the higher cost, many find the unique cultural and scenic experience of Upper Mustang to be a worthwhile investment.