Lo Manthang and Upper Mustang
In Nepali: लोमान्थाङ र माथिल्लो मुस्ताङ · Also known as: Upper Mustang · Kingdom of Lo · लोमान्थाङ
Upper Mustang was the semi-independent Kingdom of Lo, founded in the 14th century, whose kings kept their title until 2008. Its capital, Lo Manthang, is a walled city of whitewashed houses around the royal palace and three great monasteries — Jampa, Thubchen and Chode — whose 15th-century wall paintings have been beautifully restored.
The landscape is a high desert of wind-carved canyons, red and ochre cliffs honeycombed with ancient cave dwellings, and barley fields around oasis villages. The Tiji festival in spring is the highlight. Entry requires an expensive restricted-area permit; a road now reaches Lo Manthang, but trekking is still the best way to see it.
What to see and do
Inside the walls, visit the Jampa (Maitreya) and Thubchen monasteries with their restored 15th-century murals, the Chode monastery and its museum, and the royal palace. Outside, explore the Chhoser cave complex and the Nyphu cave monastery, and the villages of Ghar Gompa, Tsarang and Ghami with their red cliffs and long mani walls. The three-day Tiji festival in spring re-enacts the victory of the deity Dorje Jono over a demon.
Good to know
Upper Mustang requires a restricted-area permit (charged per person for a minimum period) plus ACAP, and a licensed guide. Because it lies in the rain shadow, the monsoon months are a good time to visit. Lodges are simple but comfortable; the jeep road allows faster access, but trekking the old trail through Tsarang and Ghami is more rewarding.
Quick answers
- Where is Lo Manthang and Upper Mustang?
- Lo Manthang and Upper Mustang is in Mustang district, Gandaki Province, in the Himal belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Lo Manthang and Upper Mustang?
- About 3,840 m (12,599 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Lo Manthang and Upper Mustang?
- For a 10-day trip from Pokhara, about NPR 133,500 (≈ US$990) per person on a budget, or NPR 161,500 (≈ US$1,195) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees, permits, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 29,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Lo Manthang and Upper Mustang?
- Plan 8 nights there for the trek; with travel from Pokhara and back, about 10 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Lo Manthang and Upper Mustang?
- Yes. Foreign visitors need a restricted-area permit of about US$500 per person per 10 days, issued only through a licensed trekking agency. You also pay about NPR 3,000 / US$22 to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Lo Manthang and Upper Mustang?
- Yes. Restricted areas can only be visited with a licensed guide, in a group of at least two.
- When is the best time to visit Lo Manthang and Upper Mustang?
- April–November; Tiji festival in May
- How do I get to Lo Manthang and Upper Mustang?
- From Jomsom, 1–2 days by jeep or 8–12 days' trekking; restricted-area permit. It is about 108 km (straight line) from Pokhara.
- What is Lo Manthang and Upper Mustang called in Nepali?
- लोमान्थाङ र माथिल्लो मुस्ताङ
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