Upper Mustang vs Bhaktapur & Patan
Pick Upper Mustang for
peace and quiet, nature, road trips, fewer people
Pick Bhaktapur & Patan for
tight budgets, family trips, first-timers, an easier walk, a smaller budget, fewer days
| Upper Mustang | Bhaktapur & Patan | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Nepal, Mustang | Nepal, Kathmandu Valley, Bagmati |
| Highest point | 4,200 m | 1,400 m |
| Difficulty | Easy–moderate | Easy |
| Trek distance | about 60 km | No trek needed |
| Days on the ground | 10–12 | 2–3 |
| Best months | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct, Nov | Oct, Nov, Dec, Feb, Mar, Apr |
| Snow likely | Dec, Jan | Rarely |
| Crowds in season | Quiet | Busy |
| Daily spend | about ₹4,500 | about ₹2,500 |
| Gateway | Pokhara / Jomsom | Kathmandu |
| With kids | Not advised | Great |
| With seniors | Possible | Great |
| Permits | Restricted Area Permit (USD ~500/10 days) + ACAP. Must go with a registered agency. | Indian citizens: passport or voter ID. Separate entry fee for each Durbar Square. |
Upper Mustang: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely
Bhaktapur & Patan: when to go
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely