Lo-Manthang Trekking

The Lo-Manthang Trek takes you to the ancient walled city of Lo-Manthang in the Upper Mustang region, offering a unique blend of Tibetan culture and stunning desert landscapes. This trek explores monasteries, caves, and the remote, arid beauty of the Trans-Himalayan region.

The Lo-Manthang Trek is a captivating journey into the heart of Upper Mustang, one of Nepal's most unique and remote regions. This trek offers a rare glimpse into Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, and stunning landscapes shaped by centuries of isolation. Lo-Manthang, the ancient walled city and the capital of the Mustang Kingdom, is the trek's highlight, where trekkers can explore its narrow alleys, traditional Tibetan-style houses, and vibrant Buddhist monasteries.

The trek begins from Jomsom, following the Kali Gandaki River through the Lower Mustang region, where you’ll experience lush valleys and terraced fields. As you move further north, the landscape transforms into a stark desert-like terrain with dramatic cliffs, caves, and barren hills. The trek gradually ascends to the high-altitude village of Lo-Manthang (3,850 meters), which is rich in culture, history, and unique architecture.

In Lo-Manthang, you can visit the Thubchen Monastery, Chhortens, and Lhakhang (temples), as well as witness traditional Tibetan Buddhist ceremonies. The area is also known for its impressive cave dwellings, many of which are centuries old, carved into the cliff sides and used by monks and locals for meditation.

The Lo-Manthang Trek provides trekkers with the opportunity to explore one of the most pristine and culturally rich regions in Nepal, far from the mainstream trekking routes. Its remote beauty, combined with the unique heritage of the Mustang people, makes this trek a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those seeking an adventure that blends nature, culture, and history. The trek is moderate in difficulty, suitable for those with prior trekking experience, and ideal for travelers wanting to immerse themselves in Tibetan culture and the wilderness of the Trans-Himalayas.

Region
Nepal
Duration
18 days
Level
easy
Max Altitude
4240 m.
Daily Activity
5-6 hours
Season
March, April, May, September, October,november
Starting From
$ 2225
Nepal New Generation Trek offer 1+10 People
Brief Introduction

The Lo-Manthang Trek offers a fascinating journey into Nepal's Upper Mustang, a remote and culturally rich region often referred to as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom." This trek takes you through desert landscapes, narrow canyons, and high-altitude villages, leading to Lo-Manthang, an ancient walled city that has preserved Tibetan culture and traditions for centuries.

The trek is a unique opportunity to explore one of the most isolated areas of Nepal, where the landscape is shaped by the dry, windswept terrain of the Trans-Himalayas. Trekkers will pass through vibrant villages, visit monasteries, and witness ancient Tibetan Buddhist practices still alive in the region. The trek's cultural richness is complemented by stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, including Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, providing a perfect balance of natural beauty and cultural discovery.

The Lo-Manthang Trek is a relatively moderate trek that doesn’t require advanced mountaineering skills, making it suitable for trekkers with prior experience. With its unique blend of Tibetan culture, spiritual significance, and breathtaking landscapes, this trek offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure, solitude, and immersion in Nepal’s rich cultural heritage.

Mustang Lo Manthang Trek Major Highlights
  • Lo-Manthang: Explore the ancient walled city, the capital of the Mustang Kingdom, known for its unique Tibetan architecture, monasteries, and vibrant Buddhist culture.
  • Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries: Visit historical monasteries like Thubchen Monastery and Jampa Lhakhang, where you can witness traditional Tibetan ceremonies and religious practices.
  • Cave Dwellings: Discover centuries-old cave dwellings carved into cliffs, used by monks and locals for meditation and shelter.
  • Scenic Landscape: Trek through the arid, desert-like terrain of Upper Mustang, with views of rugged cliffs, high plateaus, and the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
  • Unique Tibetan Culture: Immerse yourself in the rich Tibetan culture, visiting villages where traditional Tibetan customs, language, and lifestyle have been preserved for generations.
  • Hidden Gem of Nepal: Experience one of Nepal's most remote and culturally intact regions, often referred to as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom" for its historical isolation from the outside world.
  • Kali Gandaki River Valley: Follow the Kali Gandaki River as you trek through lush valleys, ancient caves, and terraced fields before entering the stark, dry landscapes of Upper Mustang.
  • Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri, along with the panoramic vistas of the high desert region.
Itinerary

Seeking for a real adventure? Our travel itinerary is based on years of trekking expertise, ensuring that you have a fun and safe vacation. However, like with all such risky excursions, there may be instances where we must change the schedule, possibly without much notice. While we make every attempt to stick to the timetable, we humbly ask for your patience and flexibility if unforeseen circumstances like weather or unforeseen natural events come into play. You may be sure that our knowledgeable guides will adjust as needed to make your tour as enjoyable as possible.

Schedule for each day
Days: 1: Arrival in Kathmandu-1360m Transfer to Hotel  
After your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in medieval and modernized Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted by our office representative and transfered to the hotel. After check in and some refreshments, our senior Sherpa guide will come to meet you and give you a brief orientation about Upper Mustang Trekking. You can then go for a stroll down the street to get familiar with the neighbourhood, have supper and go to bed. This is your first overnight in the valley of temples and cows, probably the most in the world
Days: 2 : Kathmandu Sightseeing and preparation for the trek  
The capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, being the historical and cultural heart of the country, is a popular destination for tourists, trekkers and other types of adventure seekers. The city is a marvelous amalgamation of Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism and Western cultures and influences. Patan and Bhaktapur are its two major neighboring cities. These two cities, like Kathmandu, have a rich historical, cultural and religious legacy which is reflected in the many temples, monuments and artifacts that they contain. You will be taken on a half-day guided tour of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur cities. In Kathmandu, you will be visiting Pashupatinath, the most famous and revered Hindu shrine in the country; Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal, Soyambhunath, which contains both Buddhist and Hindu shrines and stands as testimony to the religious harmony that exists in the country; and the 15th-century 55-window palace in Bhaktapur. An orientation session for the trek, which commences the following day, will be organized in the evening
Days: 3 : Drive or Flight to Pokhara, this is optional  
After breakfast, we leave our hotel early morning for a drive with scenic views along the road to Pokhara via Prithivi national highway. The drive could take roughly 7-8 hrs to reach Pokhara. We also have the option for a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara for 35 minutes. We will visit some prime spots in the lake city after refreshing at our hotel we will do a tour of some beautiful places in Pokhara that include Davids fall (if we reach early by road), and the Phewa Lake etc. we then do an overnight at our hotel by the lake in the lovely ‘city of lakes’ on BB Plan.
Days: 4 : Flight to Jomsom (2,710m) and trek to Kagbeni (2,800m) - 3 hrs trek  
You take the early morning flight which again will give close-up views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri and nearby satellites, 20 minutes flight in a small aircraft. Directly north of Jomsom is the pretty village of Kagbeni, Where there are about 80 families living here, most of them traders who are the link in the chain between modern Nepal and the Tibetan-type people of Mustang. Just out of Jomsom you cross a small hanging bridge and then walk along the banks of the Kali Gandaki. The trail is pretty barren with craggy rocks and sand and is mostly flat, which makes it very easy going. This very easy, enjoyable start is at the same time picturesque, with views of big peaks all around such as Dhaulagiri (26,794ft), Tukuche (22,703ft) and in the west the awesome mountain above Kagbeni, Nilgiri (22,769ft). Over to the south and south-west can be seen the entire Annapurna Massif. You are more than likely to meet Indian pilgrims on their way to and from Muktinath on this stretch, and other Europeans for an hour or two who will be on the world-famous Annapurna Circuit. Upon reaching Kagbeni there is a taste of scenes to come in Upper Mustang, what with its narrow alleyways and tunnels, irrigation canals, green fields of wheat and barley and a large red gompa. At the police check-post at the north end of the village there is a sign saying ‘Restricted area, tourists please do not go beyond this point’. Here you will complete your paperwork formalities for you to enter this long-forbidden region of Nepal. ACAP have set up a very interesting information post here with displays of Mustang artifacts and photos. Your first overnight on the trail
Days: 5: Trek to Samar from Kagbeni (3660) – (8-9walk) hrs trek or drive  
There is a distinct change here, not only in the topography, but also in the culture, lifestyle and people, and the settlements become more scattered, smaller and more basic. The people of Lo or Mustang do practice agriculture, but because of the lack of rain and fertile soil, cultivation is in sheltered plots of land, scattering the brown landscape with patches of green. We carry on north, when you reach a huge red chunk of rock that has fallen from the cliffs above, forming a tunnel through which the river flows. A steel bridge spans the river just in front of the tunnel and north of here the Kali Gandaki becomes impassable on foot. The trek now leaves the valley and climbs steeply up a rocky alley to the village of Chele. Watch out here for the ferocious Tibetan mastiffs which are chained to many of the houses. From Chele you climb a steep spur and then continue ascending along the side of a spectacular steep canyon to a pass. Beyond the pass you descend on a pleasant trail to Samar, situated in a grove of poplar trees. This is a major stopping place for horse and mule caravans. Overnight in lodge on full board meals.
Days: 6 : Samar to Ghami (3,520m) - 5 hrs trek  
We reckon this takes about 04 hours. From Samar the trail climbs gently through fields, up the center of the valley, passing above the settlement of Tama Gun and an imposing chorten. You then begin a taxing climb across the head of the valley to the Nyi La [3840m]. The descent from the pass is quite gentle and about half an hour further on we come to a trail junction; the right trail is the direct route to Charang, the left trail leads to Ghami. Ghami is a large white-washed village sheltered by overhanging cliffs. Overnight in lodge on full board meals.
Days: 7 : Trek to Charang via Ghar Gompa (3,560m) - 5 hrs trek  
We head towards Drakmar through colorful cliffs and green landscapes. Immediately leaving Ghami the trail follows little descent & ascent which takes approximately 45 minutes. Then we reach the valley of Drakmar. There are lots of cliffy caves above the village with colorful hillocks. at Drakmar we get a chance to see blue sheep while climbing the Mui La pass at 4170m. Ghar Gompa is the oldest monastery of Nepal which was built before Samey Monastery of Lhasa {Tibet}. This monastery is the Ngyinmapa sect where the hidden scriptures of Padmasambhava were said to be found. Then we follow the Tsarang Khola {stream} via Lo Ghekar as we reach Tsarang. Overnight in our lodge on full board meals
Days: 8 : Trek to Lo-manthang - 5 hrs trek  
You will spend part of the morning exploring the interesting village of Charang and its large monastery, before setting out for Lo Manthang. You climb gently above the valley to a large isolated chorten that marks the boundary between Charang and Lo. The trail then broadens and eventually you get your first view of the walled city of Lo Manthang. The city has only one entrance so you circumambulate the wall to the gate on the north east corner. Overnight in lodge on full board meals
Days: 9 : Excursion Day in Lomanthang - Today is a free day to explore this ancient capital  
Lo Manthang is untouched since the 14th century. The city contains about 150 houses, as well as residences for its many lamas. There are four major temples within the city and one of these, Champa Lhakang, contains a huge clay statue of Buddha as well as elaborated mandalas painted on the walls. The king's palace is an imposing building in the center of the city and is occupied by the current King and Queen. Although his duties are largely ceremonial, the King is respected by the people and consulted about many issues by villagers throughout the kingdom. Your first overnight in the lodge of Mustang on full board meals
Days: 10 : Lo-manthang to Chhosser caves and back to Lomanthang for night{optional by horse or jeep  
We will vist the Chhosser ridding by horse and carry self packed lunch. Chhosser is a mysterious, by its beauty of architecture. This cave looks like cliff but inside it there are step by step floor with 44 rooms. This cave is so amazing that it gives the feeling of being in Alien place and returned back to Lo-manthang for overnight at camp with full board of meals
Days: 11: Lo Manthang to Dhakmar Trek time: 7 hours Accommodation: Tea House  
Today is a longer trekking day but as usual, there is plenty of interesting things to see on the way! Gyakar Village is home to the century-old Ghar Gompa which has stunning rock paintings. Here you must make a wish, as is tradition. We have time to explore the gompa before heading on to Dhakmar
Days: 12: Dhakmar to Ghiling Trek time: 6 hours Accommodation: Tea House  
There are normally very strong winds on this part of the trail so we start early in the morning to descend through a dry plateau and some agricultural fields to reach the village of Ghiling. Although a challenging and tiring day because of the wind, we get great views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri to compensate
Days: 13: Ghiling to Chuksang Trek time: 6 hours Accommodation: Tea House  
Today we pass through small villages, have time to observe how the local people live and take in the mountain views
Days: 14: Chuksang to Jomsom Trek time: 5 hours Accommodation: Tea House  
Today we say goodbye to Upper Mustang and enter the lower regions (or Lower Mustang as it is also called) of the district at Jomson. On this, our final trekking day, we will have lunch at Kagbeni and perhaps this time explore the little monetary and look fondly up the Kali Gandaki gorge to where we have spent the last 10 days – the Kingdom of Lo. Our trek has in fact, rejoined the Annapurna Circuit Trek as we head from Kagbeni to Jomson
Days: 15: Fly back to Pokhara  
This takes about 25 minutes and stay overnight at our hotel in Pokhara. The flights are available during the morning time. The strong breeze blows during the after and frequent change of the weather prevent the flight being landed and taken off in the afternoon. During the flights in morning, the sky looks very clear which makes you able to enjoy the splendid views of different mountain peaks. Overnight hotel.
Days: 16: Drive to Kathmandu  
While driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you head up to Damauli, Dumre, Mugling and Kurintar where Nepal's first Cable car is operated to reach Manakamana ‘Temple of wishes’. En route, you could enjoy the mountain views, green sceneries, rice terrace fields, vegetable fields and people happily engaged in their daily chores. From Naubishe you climb up to Thankot, the gateway to the capital city. You can also fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu which takes about 25 minutes. In the evening, we will visit a well known Nepali kitchen for dinner; & as you savor your meal, you will be entertained to an exciting cultural dance performed by the local belles. This is a complimentary outing on behalf of Nepal New Generation Treks for the good welfare of our guests. Overnight at your hotel in Kathmandu.
Days: 18: Farewell Departure  
After breakfast and our last day in Kathmandu, our vehicle and escorts will be on standby to drop you to the international airport three hours before our scheduled flight back home. At Nepal New Generation, meeting you has been a great honor and we pray for your Safe journey home and will reflect on the wonderful times we spent together. Bon Voyage!!! We hope to see you again someday
Reservation & Date
Saturday
01 Mar 2025
Wednesday
31 Dec 2025
$175 Off
$2225
$2400
10 Seats
Available
Inclusion/ Exclusion

Lo-Manthang Trek Inclusion/Exclusion

Services Included
  • Accommodation: Teahouse or lodge accommodation during the trek and hotel stays in Kathmandu or Pokhara as per the itinerary.
  • Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • Permits: Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card.
  • Guide and Porters: Experienced, licensed trekking guide and porter(s) with their food, accommodation, and insurance.
  • Transportation: Domestic flights between Pokhara and Jomsom, and ground transfers as per the itinerary.
  • Trekking Gear: Sleeping bags and down jackets (if required, to be returned after the trek).
  • Safety Equipment: First aid kit and necessary safety gear.
Services Excluded
  • International Flights: Airfare to and from Nepal.
  • Visa Fees: Nepal visa fees and processing costs.
  • Personal Expenses: Snacks, beverages, personal trekking gear, Wi-Fi, hot showers, and charging devices.
  • Travel Insurance: Comprehensive insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
  • Tips: Gratuities for guides, porters, and other staff.
  • Optional Activities: Sightseeing tours or additional activities not included in the itinerary.
  • Unforeseen Costs: Expenses due to natural disasters, flight delays, or other emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions

The answers to your questions regarding the Nepal New Generation Trek, what this trip entails, and what is needed can be found in the following frequently asked questions. If your question isn't addressed there, don't hesitate to contact us.

The Lo-Manthang Trekking is considered moderate to challenging due to its remote location, altitude, and rugged terrain. It requires a good level of physical fitness, but previous trekking experience at high altitudes is not mandatory. The trek involves long days of walking at a moderate pace, with some steep climbs and descents.

The best time to trek to Lo-Manthang is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is generally clear, with mild temperatures and minimal risk of rainfall. Winter and monsoon are not ideal for this trek due to cold temperatures and the potential for heavy rainfall.

The highest point on the Lo-Manthang Trek is around 4,200 meters (13,780 feet), which is the altitude of the town of Lo-Manthang itself. The trek involves gradual ascents, and while altitude sickness is a concern, it’s generally manageable with proper acclimatization.

Yes, a licensed guide is required for the Lo-Manthang Trek, as it passes through restricted areas in the Upper Mustang region. The guide will help with navigation, ensure you have the necessary permits, and provide local knowledge about the culture and environment of the region.

The Lo-Manthang Trek requires the following permits: Upper Mustang Permit (restricted area permit) Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) Card These permits can be arranged through a licensed trekking agency in Nepal.

Accommodation along the Lo-Manthang Trek is provided in basic teahouses and guesthouses. At higher altitudes, the facilities are more basic, and you may need to bring your own sleeping bag for added warmth. The teahouses typically offer local Nepali meals, including dal bhat (lentils and rice), noodles, and soups.

On average, you will trek for about 5 to 7 hours per day on the Lo-Manthang Trek. This includes time for rest stops and lunch. The pace is relatively moderate, but the trekking days can feel longer due to the altitude and terrain. Acclimatization days are included in the itinerary to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern on the Lo-Manthang Trek, especially as you ascend to higher altitudes. Proper acclimatization is essential to minimize the risk. The trek is designed to allow you to gradually adjust to the altitude, with planned rest days to help your body adapt.

The food on the Lo-Manthang Trek primarily consists of Nepali and Tibetan cuisine. You can expect dal bhat, momos, noodles, and rice dishes. There are also tea and snacks available at most teahouses, but the variety may decrease as you ascend to higher altitudes.

Wi-Fi is available at some teahouses, especially in the lower regions of the trek. However, it may be slow and expensive. At higher altitudes, the availability of Wi-Fi is limited, and some areas might not have internet access. You may also opt for local SIM cards for data, which could work in certain areas.

No, you cannot trek to Lo-Manthang independently. Since it is located in a restricted area, you are required to trek with a licensed guide and obtain the necessary permits. A guide will ensure you follow the regulations and help with the logistics.

The Lo-Manthang Trek generally takes about 12 to 14 days, depending on the pace and the number of acclimatization days. This duration includes travel to and from the trekking starting point, trekking through villages, and exploring Lo-Manthang and its surroundings.

While it is possible to trek to Lo-Manthang in winter, it is not recommended for most trekkers. The temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night, and snowstorms are more common in the winter months. Trekking in winter requires proper preparation and high-altitude gear.

Yes, the Lo-Manthang Trek passes through areas of the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is home to various wildlife species. Some animals you may encounter include blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and several species of birds. However, sightings are rare, and animals tend to be more active in the early morning or at dusk.

For the Lo-Manthang Trek, you should pack: Warm clothing (layers, including a down jacket) Sleeping bag (for higher altitudes) Trekking boots and poles Water purification tablets or a water filter Sunscreen and lip balm Headlamp with extra batteries Personal medical kit Camera for photos Power bank (as charging points may be limited)

Yes, photography is encouraged during the Lo-Manthang Trek. The region is famous for its ancient monasteries, beautiful landscapes, and unique Tibetan-influenced culture. Just be respectful when taking photos of local people, especially in religious or sensitive areas.

Yes, there are options to extend your trek after reaching Lo-Manthang. You can explore the surrounding areas like Chhoser and Charang, or trek towards other parts of the Upper Mustang. Your guide can assist you with arranging an extended itinerary if you are interested.

Yes, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, emergency evacuation, and medical expenses. Ensure that your insurance covers the specific activities and altitude of the Lo-Manthang Trek.