With its maze of mud-brick houses, prayer wheels and green barley fields in a desert valley, Kagbeni feels like a step into old Tibet.
Quick answer: Kagbeni lies at about 2,810 m where the Jhong River meets the Kali Gandaki. It has a striking red monastery, ancient lanes and the checkpoint for Upper Mustang, which requires a restricted area permit. It's also a place where Hindus perform rituals for their ancestors.
What to see
- The red Buddhist monastery overlooking the village.
- Narrow lanes, tunnels and courtyards.
- The riverbanks at the confluence.
- Views up the valley towards Upper Mustang.
Getting there
About an hour by jeep or a few hours' walk from Jomsom, on the way to Muktinath.
Plan your trip
See our Upper Mustang jeep tour, Muktinath tour and Jomsom guide.