Mustang, one of Nepal’s most mesmerizing regions, is currently experiencing extreme winter conditions. Heavy snowfall has blanketed the entire Mustang area, making trekking, travel, and daily life challenging. This October 2025 weather alert is crucial for trekkers, tourists, and families planning to visit Mustang or Muktinath.
Current Weather Situation in Mustang
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) of Nepal reports continuous heavy snowfall across Mustang. Since October 27, 2025, the region has experienced sharp drops in temperature, strong winds, and poor visibility. The snow accumulation is significant, particularly in higher-altitude areas.
Notably:
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Muktinath Temple Area: Completely covered by snow, making access extremely difficult. Pilgrims and travelers are advised to postpone visits until conditions improve.
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Upper Mustang Region: The higher reaches, including Lo Manthang and surrounding villages, are fully covered in snow. Footpaths and roads are nearly impassable, making travel extremely hazardous.
DHM forecasts indicate that this heavy snowfall will persist until October 29, 2025, with cold winds further complicating travel. Daytime temperatures are hovering around 0-5°C, while nighttime temperatures are dropping to -5°C or below, creating risks of frostbite and hypothermia for those exposed.
Official Advisories and Safety Measures
Given the severity of the current weather, several authorities have issued urgent advisories:
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Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN), and Nepal Mountain Association (NMA) recommend halting all trekking activities in Mustang until the weather stabilizes.
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Local Government has officially requested all trekkers, tourists, and pilgrims to stay in local accommodations - including guesthouses, lodges, and hotels - rather than attempting to travel further.
The advisories stress:
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Avoid trekking in Upper Mustang and Muktinath areas during heavy snowfall.
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Remain indoors or in local accommodations, even if you are already in Mustang.
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Follow local authorities’ instructions and monitor updates from DHM regularly.
These measures are essential to prevent accidents, injuries, or being stranded in snow-covered regions.
Why the Snowfall is So Severe
Mustang’s geography - a high-altitude desert flanked by the Himalayas - makes it susceptible to rapid weather changes. Factors contributing to the current heavy snowfall include:
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Western Disturbances: Cold air from Central Asia has brought intense snowstorms to Mustang.
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Climate Variability: Seasonal patterns have shifted, leading to early winter conditions in October.
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High Altitude Exposure: Upper Mustang’s villages, including Lo Manthang, are exposed to extreme cold and wind, intensifying snow accumulation.
The combination of these factors has made Upper Mustang and Muktinath nearly inaccessible by foot or vehicle at this time.
Travel Conditions: Upper Mustang and Muktinath
Currently, traveling in Mustang is extremely difficult due to snow accumulation:
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Upper Mustang: Roads leading to Lo Manthang, Chhuksang, and surrounding villages are fully covered by snow. Vehicles cannot operate safely, and trekking paths are slippery and dangerous.
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Muktinath Temple: Pilgrims and tourists are unable to reach the temple safely as the area is blanketed in snow. Footpaths are obstructed, and local authorities are discouraging travel.
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Road Access: Roads connecting Lower Mustang to Jomsom and other districts are either blocked or highly dangerous due to snow and ice.
Authorities recommend staying in safe local accommodations until snowfall reduces and roads and trails are cleared.
Weather Forecast: October 27-29, 2025
According to DHM:
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Snowfall: Heavy, especially in higher-altitude Upper Mustang and Muktinath areas.
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Temperature: Daytime around 0-5°C; nighttime below -5°C.
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Wind: Moderate to strong, increasing the risk of frostbite.
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Visibility: Poor due to snow and cloud cover, making travel extremely hazardous.
Trekkers and tourists should avoid venturing outdoors during these days unless absolutely necessary. Local guides and authorities will provide updates on when travel becomes safe again.
Staying Safe in Mustang During Heavy Snowfall
To protect yourself during this extreme weather, follow these safety tips:
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Stay indoors or in local guesthouses and lodges - do not attempt trekking or driving in snow-covered areas.
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Dress appropriately with insulated jackets, gloves, waterproof boots, and thermal clothing.
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Keep updated with official DHM weather forecasts and local authority announcements.
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Stay warm and hydrated; avoid exposure to wind and cold for extended periods.
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Communicate with your trekking agency or local guides to stay informed about route conditions and emergency options.
Adhering to these guidelines will ensure safety during this heavy snowfall event.
Importance of Official Guidelines
The current weather situation in Mustang is serious and potentially life-threatening for those unprepared. Ignoring advisories can result in:
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Being stranded in snow-covered trails or roads.
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Frostbite, hypothermia, and cold-related injuries.
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Difficulty accessing emergency services due to blocked roads.
Authorities including NTB, TAAN, NMA, and Local government emphasize that staying in local accommodations and postponing travel is the safest option until conditions improve.
Summary
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Mustang is experiencing heavy snowfall as of late October 2025.
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Upper Mustang and Muktinath areas are fully snow-covered, making access extremely difficult.
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DHM forecasts indicate severe weather from October 27-29, with low temperatures, strong winds, and poor visibility.
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All trekking and travel are temporarily halted as per advisories from NTB, TAAN, NMA, and the local government.
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Safety is paramount: stay in local accommodations, monitor official updates, and avoid venturing outdoors unnecessarily.
Staying informed and following these official guidelines will ensure that travelers, trekkers, and pilgrims remain safe during this extreme snowfall in Mustang.
For trekkers, tourists, and families seeking updated weather information or guidance in Mustang, you can contact Best Heritage Tour, a trusted trekking and travel agency with experienced local guides:
Phone: +977-9851149197 / +977-9810043046
Email: info@bestheritagetour.com / bestheritagetour@gmail.com
Website: www.bestheritagetour.com
Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal
Our team can provide real-time updates, assist with accommodations in Mustang, and advise on safe travel during the current snowfall. Your safety is our priority.
Author: Best Heritage Tour
Date: 29th October, 2025
