Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang, formerly the Kingdom of Lo, is a remote and restricted area in Nepal that lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, creating a stark, desert-like landscape that more closely resembles Tibet than the rest of Nepal. This region was a separate kingdom until 2008 and remained largely isolated from the outside world until 1992 when it was opened to a limited number of tourists.

The area is characterized by its unique geography: arid valleys, eroded canyons, and colorful rock formations set against the backdrop of snow-capped Himalayan peaks. The Kali Gandaki River, which flows through Mustang, is considered one of the deepest gorges in the world.

Upper Mustang is a treasure trove of Tibetan Buddhist culture. The walled city of Lo Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Lo, is home to ancient monasteries, royal palaces, and traditional Tibetan-style houses. The monasteries contain some of the finest examples of Tibetan Buddhist art, including intricate mandalas and thangka paintings.

The region is also known for its thousands of human-made caves, some dating back 2,000-3,000 years. These caves, carved into cliff faces, were used as dwellings, burial chambers, and meditation retreats. Archaeological discoveries in these caves have provided valuable insights into the ancient civilization that once thrived in this area.

Visiting Upper Mustang requires a special permit, which costs $500 for a 10-day stay, and all trekkers must be accompanied by a licensed guide. Despite these restrictions, the region attracts adventurous travelers seeking to explore its unique landscape and cultural heritage.

The best time to visit Upper Mustang is from March to November, with the summer months (June to August) being particularly good as the region remains dry even during the monsoon season that affects the rest of Nepal.