Trekkers Nepal
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When people hear "trekking in Nepal during monsoon," most of them immediately picture muddy trails, leeches, and non-stop rain. That picture is accurate for most of Nepal but not for Upper Mustang.
Upper Mustang is different. And once you understand why, you will start looking at June, July, and August in a completely new light.
The Secret Behind the Dry Weather
Upper Mustang sits north of the massive Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. When monsoon winds travel up from the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, they hit these giant peaks and drop all their rain on the southern slopes. By the time those winds reach Upper Mustang, there is barely any moisture left.The result? The region gets less than 300 mm of rainfall per year even during the peak monsoon months. That means while the rest of Nepal is soaking wet, Upper Mustang stays mostly dry, sunny, and walkable.
What the Weather Actually Looks Like
In June, daytime temperatures are comfortable, ranging between 18°C and 25°C. July warms up a little more, with temperatures touching 28°C during the day. August follows a similar pattern warm in the day, cooler at night.The one thing you do need to prepare for is afternoon wind. Strong gusts are common in the mid to late afternoon, so most experienced trekkers start early and make sure they are settled in their teahouse well before then.
Nights across all three months can be cold, dipping down to around 8°C to 11°C, so warm layers are a must regardless of the season.
Why Monsoon Is Actually a Good Time to Go
- Fewer people on the trail : Since most trekkers avoid Nepal in the monsoon, Upper Mustang is wonderfully quiet from June to August. You can walk at your own pace, take your time at viewpoints, and have a more personal experience with locals.
- Stunning mountain views : The clear skies that come with the rain shadow effect mean you get sharp, unobstructed views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri. These views are genuinely hard to beat.
- A landscape unlike anything else in Nepal : Upper Mustang does not look like the rest of the country. You walk through dry valleys, past towering red and yellow cliffs, and into an ancient walled city Lo Manthang that feels completely frozen in time at an elevation of 3,840 metres.
- The Yartung Festival : August is particularly special because it brings the Yartung Festival to Lo Manthang. This vibrant three-to-five-day celebration marks the end of summer and the close of the harvest season. You can watch traditional horse racing, see locals dressed in beautiful Tibetan-influenced costumes, and witness folk dances like Syabro and Ghawa performed in the streets. It is genuinely one of those festival experiences that stays with you long after the trek is over.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
No trek is without its challenges, and Upper Mustang in monsoon is no exception. The lower sections of the route, especially around Jomsom, can experience heavy rain and landslides. Flights to Jomsom can be delayed or cancelled due to poor weather, so building a couple of buffer days into your itinerary is smart.Strong afternoon winds, altitude sickness risks, and fewer teahouse options during the off-season are also real factors. Trek with a licensed, experienced guide, stay hydrated, and follow a well-paced itinerary with proper acclimatization stops.
You will also need a Restricted Area Permit (USD 50 per person per day), an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, and a TIMS card before entering the region.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Upper Mustang in monsoon is one of Nepal's most underrated adventures dry trails, dramatic scenery, empty paths, and rich cultural experiences all in one place.
If this sounds like the kind of trek you have been looking for, reach out to Trekkers Nepal. Their experienced team can help you plan the perfect Upper Mustang itinerary for June, July, or August 2026, so you can step into the Last Forbidden Kingdom at its most peaceful and authentic best.