The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal’s most mystical adventures — a journey through the ancient Kingdom of Lo, surrounded by desert cliffs, centuries-old monasteries, and Tibetan culture frozen in time. But before you go, timing is everything. Unlike most treks in Nepal, Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, meaning it’s perfect even during the monsoon when other trails are soaked. Let’s explore what each season offers and discover the best time for Upper Mustang Trek, characterized by clear skies, cultural events, and memorable landscapes.
Spring (March to May): Colorful and Cultural Season
Spring is one of the best seasons to trek in Upper Mustang. The days are mild, skies are clear, and the dry desert terrain bursts into subtle color.
Weather
Temperature: 12°C to 20°C during the day, 0°C to 5°C at night
Weather: Stable, dry, and windy afternoons
Visibility: Excellent for photography and landscapes
Highlight – The Tiji Festival
Spring is home to the Tiji Festival, usually held in May in Lo Manthang.
This three-day celebration symbolizes the victory of good over evil and features monks performing sacred mask dances, colorful attire, and ancient rituals inside royal monasteries.
If you want both adventure and cultural depth, plan your trek around the Tiji Festival.
Why Choose Spring ?
- Clear mountain views
- Perfect temperatures
- Culturally rich with the Tiji Festival
- Great for both photography and spiritual immersion
Summer/Monsoon (June to August): Unique Rain-Shadow Advantage
While other regions in Nepal face heavy monsoon rain, Upper Mustang remains dry and accessible thanks to its location north of the Annapurna range.
Weather
Temperature: 15°C to 22°C (day), 5°C to 10°C (night)
Rain: Minimal — mostly light drizzles near Jomsom
Visibility: Slight haze, but colorful skies
Why Choose Summer?
- Rare opportunity to trek in Nepal during monsoon
- Dramatic landscapes with blooming alpine plants
- Less crowded trails
- Perfect for photography with soft light and colors
Autumn (September to November): The Golden Season
Autumn is the most popular time for trekking in Nepal, and Upper Mustang is no exception. The post-monsoon clarity brings golden light, calm winds, and comfortable temperatures.
Weather
Temperature: 10°C to 18°C (day), -2°C to 5°C (night)
Weather: Dry, clear, and stable
Visibility: Excellent
Why Choose Autumn ?
- Crystal-clear skies and warm days
- Rich cultural interactions after harvest season
- Best light for photography
- Smooth flights and road access
The cliffs of Dhakmar and red canyons around Tsarang glow beautifully in the autumn sun.
Winter (December to February): Quiet, Cold & Clear
Winter is the least crowded time to visit Upper Mustang. While temperatures can drop below freezing, the weather remains dry and crisp, making it ideal for seasoned trekkers seeking solitude.
Weather
Temperature: -5°C to 12°C (day), -15°C at night in Lo Manthang
Weather: Clear but cold; occasional snowfall above 3,800m
Why Choose Winter ?
- Silent trails and empty teahouses
- Crystal-clear mountain views
- Strong cultural authenticity in villages
- Great for those seeking offbeat adventures
Note: Some lodges above Ghami may close, so plan with a registered guide for safe accommodation and transport.
Upper Mustang Trek by Season
| Season | Temperature (Day/Night) | Weather | Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | 12°C / 0°C | Clear, dry | Tiji Festival | Culture & scenic trekking |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 15°C / 5°C | Dry (rain-shadow) | Blooming plants | Unique off-season trek |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | 10°C / -2°C | Perfectly clear | Post-harvest beauty | Best weather & photography |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 5°C / -10°C | Dry & cold | Solitude, snow views | Experienced trekkers |
What’s the Best Time for Upper Mustang Trek?
If you want:
Best Weather + Culture → Spring (April–May) during Tiji Festival
Clear Views + Golden Light → Autumn (September–November)
Unique Off-Season + Fewer Crowds → Summer (June–August)
Spring and Autumn remain the top choices for most trekkers, but Upper Mustang is one of the few treks in Nepal you can do year-round.
Insider Travel Tips
Always carry a windproof jacket — Upper Mustang is famous for its afternoon winds.
Apply for Restricted Area Permit (RAP) through a registered trekking agency.
Stay hydrated — the region’s dry air causes quick dehydration.
Bring lip balm and sunscreen; the desert sun is intense.
Choose Lo Manthang stay for 2 nights to explore caves, monasteries, and royal palaces.
Packing List for Upper Mustang Trek
- Windproof and down jackets
- Sunglasses and sun hat
- Reusable water bottle or hydration pack
- Trekking boots and poles
- Layered warm clothing
- Portable charger and power bank
- Lip balm and moisturizer
- Light sleeping bag (0°C to -5°C rated)
Cultural Highlights by Season
Tiji Festival (May): Lo Manthang’s grand annual celebration of peace and prosperity
Harvest Festivals (September–October): Local feasts and traditional dances in remote villages
Winter Monastic Retreats (Dec–Feb): Monks perform inner rituals and meditation ceremonies
Why Choose Nepal Treks and Tour ?
- Authorized for Upper Mustang Restricted Area permits
- Local guides with decades of experience
- Well-managed logistics and small group focus
- Personalized itineraries for cultural and photography enthusiasts
- Contact our team today to plan your Upper Mustang Trek 2025/2026 with guaranteed permits, flights, and local expertise.
FAQs
1. What is the best month to visit Upper Mustang?
May and October are considered the best months — clear skies, pleasant weather, and cultural activities like the Tiji Festival in May.
2. Can I trek to Upper Mustang in monsoon?
Yes! Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow area, meaning you can trek here comfortably even in June, July, or August.
3. Is Upper Mustang open year-round?
Yes, but winter months (Dec–Feb) can be cold with limited lodge availability. Spring and autumn are ideal.
4. When is the Tiji Festival celebrated in 2026?
The Tiji Festival 2026 is expected around May (exact lunar dates announced each year) — a perfect time to experience Lo Manthang’s culture.
5. Which season offers the clearest mountain views?
Autumn (September–November) offers the clearest skies and most stable visibility for photography.
6. Is Upper Mustang affected by rain during summer?
No. It’s located behind the Annapurna range, making it one of Nepal’s best summer treks.
7. Can beginners trek in Upper Mustang?
Yes, the trail is moderate and suitable for trekkers with average fitness, but requires a registered guide and special permits.
8. What should I pack for different seasons?
Spring/Autumn: Light layers + windbreaker
Summer: Hat, sunscreen, and breathable clothes
Winter: Heavy down jacket and thermals
9. How high does the Upper Mustang trek go?
The highest point is around 4,200 meters (Chogo La Pass) — altitude symptoms are rare but possible.
10. Why choose Upper Mustang over other treks?
It’s uncrowded, culturally rich, and open even during monsoon, offering a rare blend of desert scenery and Tibetan heritage.
No matter the month, Upper Mustang offers a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan experience — red cliffs, ancient monasteries, and timeless Tibetan culture. But if you want the perfect balance of weather, festivals, and scenery, aim for April–May or September–October.
Ready to experience the Hidden Kingdom of Lo? Plan your 2025/2026 Upper Mustang Trek with Nepal Treks and Tour today — permits, guides, and cultural insights all handled by professionals who know every corner of Mustang.
