Upper Mustang (Lo-Manthang)Trekking

An overview

Few regions of the great Himalaya remain few people traveled. The ancient kingdom of Mustang in western Nepal is one of them. Only a handful of foreigners have crossed the high passes to the valley of Tholung wherein lies the palace of Lo-Manthang, the seat of the King of Mustang, who is still in residence. From Kathmandu you drive to Pokhara, second largest town of Nepal set on the shores of Phewa Lake. You spend a day here relaxing before taking flight up the great Kali Gandaki Valley to Jomsom where the trek begins. You ascend the ridges to the north of the town with a spectacular panorama of the Annapurna range rising behind you.

The trail continues to climb onto this southern edge of the Tibetan plateau towards Mustang. There are several pass crossings (the highest being the Nyi La at 3999m) all of which offer astounding views south to the Annapurna and north to Tibet before you make the final climb to a ridge at 3850meters.

From here you look down into the Tholung Valley to the walled city of Lo-Manthang. Three days here enables you to explore this remarkable medieval city with its monasteries and palace, or to ride ponies north to the border with Tibet. With luck you may meet the king - a memorable character from another world. You then trek back to Jomsom via a different route before flying to Kathmandu via Pokhara. This is an exceptional trip and experience it yourself.