Behind the Himalaya, in the dry, wind-carved landscape of Upper Mustang, the walled town of Lo Manthang was for centuries the capital of the Tibetan kingdom of Lo. Its whitewashed houses, red monasteries and narrow lanes sit inside earthen walls on a high plateau at about 3,840 m, with ancient cave dwellings in the cliffs around.
Quick answer: Lo Manthang (about 3,840 m) is reached by a 12–14 day trek or a jeep tour from Jomsom. Upper Mustang is a restricted area requiring a special permit (US$50 per person per day since late 2025) and a licensed guide; solo trekkers have been allowed since March 2026. Best time: April–October; the Tiji festival is usually in May.
Lo Manthang at a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Altitude | About 3,840 m |
| Region | Upper Mustang, a restricted area |
| Permit | Special restricted area permit plus ACAP |
| Access | Trek or jeep from Jomsom |
| Best time | April–October |
| Festival | Tiji (usually May) |
What to see
- Thubchen and Jampa monasteries with their murals.
- The old royal palace.
- Cave complexes such as Chhoser.
- The Tiji festival masked dances.
Why Mustang is different
Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalaya, so it can be visited during the monsoon, when much of Nepal is wet.
Trips and guides
Plan your visit
Lo Manthang is one of the most unusual places in Nepal. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.