Mustang
The forbidden kingdom — ancient caves, walled villages and high-desert wonder
Mustang is Nepal's trans-Himalayan desert district, split between Lower Mustang's Muktinath and Jomsom and the restricted Upper Mustang, once the independent Kingdom of Lo.
Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang's walled former capital, preserves centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and palace architecture largely unchanged since the kingdom's founding in the 14th century.
Muktinath Temple, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, and Tilicho Lake, among the world's highest lakes, draw pilgrims and trekkers to opposite ends of the same arid plateau.
Curated Experiences
Our journeys in Nepal.
Popular Attractions
5 places
Attraction
Muktinath Temple
Sacred Hindu and Buddhist shrine at 3,710 metres
Attraction
Lo Manthang
Ancient walled capital of the forbidden Kingdom of Lo
Attraction
Tilicho Lake
One of the world's highest lakes amid the Annapurnas
Attraction
Kagbeni
Medieval gateway village to Upper Mustang
Attraction
Jomsom
Wind-swept capital of the Mustang plateau
Culture
People & Culture
Mustang preserves a strongly Tibetan Buddhist Loba culture in its upper reaches, distinct from the Thakali communities of Lower Mustang around Jomsom and Kagbeni, long known for their trading heritage along the Kali Gandaki salt route. Upper Mustang remains a restricted area, requiring a special permit and registered guide, which has helped preserve its language, monastic art and village life largely as they were before Nepal opened the region to trekkers in 1992.
Activities
Things to Do
Visit Muktinath Temple, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists
Trek to Lo Manthang, the walled former capital of Upper Mustang
Trek to Tilicho Lake, one of the world's highest lakes
Explore the medieval village of Kagbeni, gateway to Upper Mustang
Travel Information
Best Time to Visit
May, June, July, August, September
Other Districts in Gandaki Province
Stories from Mustang
All guides