If you enjoy exploring true mountain life, you’ll love trekking to Lo Manthang (840 meters / 12598 feet ).

Lo Manthang is the capital of the ancient Buddhist Kingdom in the Upper Mustang. Tibetan Plateau borders this trekking area, so the culture and tradition are like those in Tibet. But, the region is a less explored mysterious area in this semi-remote dry place.

Interestingly, the region used to have a separate king and even the last king of Mustang has a house in Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of Lo.

Trekking to Lo Manthang is surely an exceptional experience. You are quite fortunate enough to plan your trip to the area in the twenties. If you were planning before 1992, then it would have been impossible.

You heard it right, Lo Manthang was an isolated kingdom inside the boundary of Nepal. Later, the Government of Nepal opened the area for international travelers in 1992 AD only.

Lo Manthang Tours and Treks

Lo Manthang Trek Itinerary

On the very first day, you will land in Kathmandu, followed by sightseeing around the valley. Then, the next day, you will catch a flight to Pokhara. There are many things to do in Pokhara. Your journey to Lo Manthang will fly to Jomsom from Pokhara. Then the Mustang hike starts from Kagbeni on day 4. On the 9th day, we reach Lo Manthang and Namgyal. Then again, you follow Charang, Tange, Tetang, Muktinath, and finally Jomsom. We can complete the journey in around 18 days from your respective country to your country again.

The trekking becomes worth it as you eyewitness this mystical land of the undulating mountainous universe. This desert in the lap of mountains embraces the Loba or Lowa of 6,000 inhabitants on the inner side, and Gurung and Thakuri on the outer side of their lands.

Best Time to Trek to Lo Manthang

The trans-Himalayan climate in Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayan region, making up it’s cool and semi-arid. The trails make a good monsoon trek. However, during winter, things become uncommon as major inhabitants leave the capital to escape the snowy cold.

That is why we recommend you visit Lo Manthang in the spring (March, April, and May) and autumn (September, October, and November).

Trekking to Lo Manthang

Modernization has surely changed people’s interactions with and perceptions of nature and civilizations.

What if I say, you still have a chance to see the mountain civilization? Take a trek to Lo Manthang to experience untouched nature and meet locals to discover an ancient civilization. The region offers incredible views, hikes, air, monasteries, culture, and snow-capped mountains.

This semi-desert forbidden land smelled its freedom in 1992 AD only. Henceforth, trekking to Lo Manthang will give us a larger perspective on life.

If you have hiked the wave in America, you could feel the same here.

Lo Manthang Trek Gear List

Trekking requires a lot of gear. Here are a few of them to inform you in case you forget them.

• Thin and warm socks
• Hiking boots with spare shoelaces, preferably GORE-TEX
• Duffel Bag, Backpack, and Rain cover
• Trekking Pole
• Headlamp with spare batteries
• Personal Medicine
• Water Bottle
• Toothbrush, hand sanitizers, soap, shampoo, and tissue papers
• Portable water filters or purification tablets
• Earplugs, Universal Adapter, Whistle, Camera, Memory Card, and Charger

FAQ: About hiking to Lo Manthang

What to expect while trekking to Lo Manthang?

Trekking in Upper Mustang is an irreplaceable explanation if you want to catch sight of the dazzling architecture of Lo Manthang. The food, crafts, hospitality, and villages in Upper Mustang are rare privileges.

Not just trekking, but it offers the lifetime opportunity of red cliff climbing, pony riding, and Mustang mountain biking as well, which are must-dos. If you have a vacation in May, you will be lucky enough to be a part of the Tiji Festival, a major 3-day celebration in Upper Mustang.

How hard is the trek to Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang?

The Lo Manthang trek is moderately difficult. If you are familiar with mountainous regions or trans-Himalayan terrain and land, then it is perfectly conquerable. However, the cold desert and dry climate, along with severe winters and scanty rainfall, can make the trek hard.

No need to worry, as the primary temperature depends on the season.

How long does it take to trek to Lo Manthang?

The Upper Mustang itinerary is for 18 days. You can also complete the trekking trail in 2 or 3 fewer days. Though your physical fitness might affect this duration. However, you can also opt out of the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour in case you have fewer days and can’t make it to Lo Manthang on foot.

How much does it cost to visit Lo Manthang?

The Lo Manthang requirement includes a special Mustang trekking permit. That is the reason it is expensive; however, various companies provide various packages. Choose one of the best trekking companies in Nepal and book a trip. The trip price to Heaven Himalaya is $2200 for 18 days, which is very reasonable.