Trekking in Mustang District, Gandaki Province, Gandaki, Gandaki
Mustang Valley (Lo Manthang)
The former kingdom of Mustang, known as the Last Forbidden Kingdom, is one of Nepal's most extraordinary destinations. Upper Mustang - accessed via Jomsom - is a restricted area preserving a Tibetan Buddhist culture barely changed in centuries. Lo Manthang, the walled capital, sits at 3,840m with ochre-painted mud-brick buildings, ancient gompas (monasteries), sky caves, and a living king. The desert landscape of eroded canyons and cliff dwellings is unlike anywhere else in Nepal.
Hours: Open during trekking season (March-November)
Best time: May-June and September-October; monsoon does not affect Upper Mustang (rain shadow)
Best for: adventure, culture, photography, off-the-beaten-path
Location
Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang, Mustang District
29.1800, 83.9600 — View on map
Tips
- Upper Mustang requires a special Restricted Area Permit (USD 500 for 10 days).
- Must be accompanied by a licensed guide at all times.
- Fly Pokhara to Jomsom (25 min) to save 2-3 days of trekking.
- The area is a rain shadow desert - summer (May-Sep) is a viable trekking window unlike most Nepal.