Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour Permits: What Riders Need to Know

Planning an Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour? Before riding toward Lo Manthang, it is important to understand the permits and documents required to enter this restricted region of Nepal.

Upper Mustang is one of Nepal's most protected and culturally significant destinations, and foreign travelers need special permission to enter the restricted area.

Do You Need a Permit for an Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour?

Yes. Foreign travelers need a special Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to enter Upper Mustang.

The permit is issued through the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and applies to the restricted areas around Lo Manthang, Lo-Ghekar Damodarkunda and parts of Baragung Muktichetra.

The Annapurna Conservation Area also requires its applicable conservation-area entry permit, as the journey to Upper Mustang passes through the Annapurna region.

For an organized motorcycle tour, foreign travelers cannot obtain the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP) independently. Entry into the restricted area requires traveling with a licensed guide and a registered tour operator, which must arrange and obtain the RAP on the rider's behalf. Himalayan Eco Ride can arrange the required permits and paperwork before the journey begins, allowing you to focus on preparing for the ride.

How Much Does the Upper Mustang Permit Cost?

The Department of Immigration currently lists the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit at:

USD 50 per person per day.

Permit fees and regulations can change, so riders should confirm the current requirements before traveling. Your tour operator can also advise you on the permits applicable to your specific itinerary.

What Documents Do Riders Need?

For the permit process, foreign travelers should be prepared to provide the required travel and personal information. Depending on the current application procedure, this can include:

• Valid passport and Nepal visa
• Passport photographs
• Tour itinerary
• Travel insurance
• Required agency documents
• Other information requested by the Department of Immigration

Restricted-area permits are handled through registered agencies, and the Department of Immigration states that such permits are issued through listed trekking agencies.

Do Motorcycle Riders Need a TIMS Card?

It is important not to confuse the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit with the TIMS system.

TIMS requirements can depend on the activity and route, while the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit is specifically required for foreign visitors entering the restricted area. Nepal Tourism Board separately lists Upper Mustang under its trekking/TIMS information and advises travelers to check the requirements for their route.

Because regulations can change, Himalayan Eco Ride checks the applicable requirements when arranging your trip rather than relying on outdated permit information.

Can You Ride to Lo Manthang With These Permits?

Yes. Once the required permits and other applicable documents have been arranged, you can ride through the permitted Upper Mustang route toward Lo Manthang, the historic walled city and main destination of the region.

The journey takes you through dramatic Himalayan landscapes, traditional villages, ancient monasteries and rugged mountain roads.

If you want to know more about the actual riding experience, read our guide:

[Can You Ride a Motorbike to Lo Manthang?]

Ready to Ride Into Upper Mustang?

The 12-day Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour takes riders from Kathmandu through Pokhara and the Kali Gandaki Valley before reaching Kagbeni, Upper Mustang and Lo Manthang.