Lo-Manthang Trek – 16 Days -

Lo-Manthang Trek – 16 Days

16 Days

All Inclusive Price

$US$ 2590

Key Points

Duration

16 Days

Accommodation

Hotels in Kathmandu/Pokhara and teahouses during the trek

Group Size:

1–12 people

Max. Altitude

4,200 meters (Lo-Manthang)

Trip Overview

The Lo-Manthang Trek is a remarkable journey into the remote Upper Mustang region, offering a rare glimpse into the former Himalayan Kingdom which is also entitled to the “Last Forbidden Kingdom”, It was closed to outsiders until 1992, preserving its ancient Buddhist traditions, cave dwellings, and walled city life.

This trek takes you through arid, high-altitude landscapes resembling the Tibetan Plateau, with dramatic cliffs, colorful rock formations, centuries-old monasteries, and hidden caves. The highlight of the trek is exploring the walled city of Lo-Manthang, home to royal palaces, monasteries, and an authentic Tibetan way of life untouched by modern influence.

The Lo-Manthang Trek is perfect for those seeking cultural immersion, history, and stark Himalayan beauty in a restricted and protected area. The trek requires good fitness and the appropriate permits. Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) are the ideal seasons for this adventure.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,345m):
Meet our team at the airport and transfer to your hotel. Evening welcome dinner and trek briefing.

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparation:
Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites and finalize trekking permits and equipment.

Day 3: Drive/Fly to Pokhara (822m):
Through flight you can see short scenic flight to Pokhara or a 6-8 hrs scenic drive to Pokhara will be perfect to enjoy a road trip, Nepal’s lakeside city, with free time to relax by Phewa Lake.

Day 4: Fly to Jomsom (2,720m), trek to Kagbeni (2,810m, 3 hours):
Morning flight to Jomsom, gateway to Upper Mustang, followed by a 3 hours trek to Kagbeni, the entry point to the restricted area.

Day 5: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m, 5-6 hours):
Trek through arid landscapes and traditional villages into Upper Mustang, with stunning desert-like scenery.

Day 6: Trek from Chele to Ghiling (3,570m, 6-7 hours):
Ascend via rugged canyons and high passes, experiencing Mustang’s distinctive red cliffs and barren valleys which arrives at the picturesque village Ghiling.

Day 7: Trekking from Ghiling to Tsarang(3,560m, 5-6 hours):
Gently climbingthrough the fields passing below Tama Gaon, then it drops steeply to Ghemi with gompa and nunnery leading to Tsarang.

Day 8: Trek to Lo-Manthang (3,840m, 5 hours):
Enter the walled city of Lo-Manthang, exploring its royal palace, monasteries, and alleyways steeped in Tibetan culture.

Day 9: Explore Lo-Manthang:
Full day to visit ancient monasteries, the royal palace, traditional homes, and optional excursions to surrounding caves and viewpoints.

Day 10: Trekking back from Lo-Manthang to Drakmar (3,820m, 6 hours):
Begin the return journey, trekking through scenic landscapes to the red cliffs of Drakmar.

Day 11: Trek from Drakmar to Shyangmochen(3800m, 5-6 hours):
Retrace your route, descending through Mustang’s arid terrain.

Day 12: Trek from Shyangmochen to Chhuksang (2,980m, 6 hours):
Continue through rugged valleys and traditional villages to Chhusang.

Day 13: Trek to Jomsom (2,720m, 7 hours):
Complete the circuit, returning to Jomsom for an overnight stay.

Day 14: Fly to Pokhara:
Morning flight to Pokhara with free time to explore the city or relax by the lake.

Day 15: Drive/Fly to Kathmandu:
Return to Kathmandu, with options to drive or fly depending on your preference.

Day 16: Departure:
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

Cost Include & Exclude

Cost Includes

Airport transfers
Accommodation in Kathmandu/Pokhara and teahouses during trek
All meals during the trek
Domestic flights (Pokhara–Jomsom–Pokhara)
Professional trekking guide and porters
Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Permit (ACAP), and TIMS card
First aid kit and safety equipment

Cost Excludes

International flights and Nepal visa fees
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu/Pokhara
Personal trekking gear
Travel insurance and emergency evacuation
Snacks, beverages, and personal expenses
Tips for guide and porters

FAQ Section

What is the difficulty level of the Lo-Manthang Trek?

The trek is considered moderate to challenging due to high-altitude trails, arid landscapes, and long trekking days. A good level of fitness and prior trekking experience is recommended.

What permits are required for Upper Mustang?

Trekkers need an Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and a TIMS card. Shepherd Adventure Trekking will assist in obtaining all required permits.

What is included in the trek cost?

The cost includes airport transfers, accommodation in Kathmandu/Pokhara and teahouses during the trek, all meals on the trail, domestic flights (Pokhara–Jomsom–Pokhara), professional guides and porters, permits, and first aid/safety equipment.

What is not included in the trek cost?

Exclusions are international flights, Nepal visa fees, lunch/dinner in Kathmandu/Pokhara, personal trekking gear, travel insurance and emergency evacuation, snacks/beverages, and tips for guides and porters.

When is the best time to do the Lo-Manthang Trek?

The ideal trekking seasons are Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–November) when the weather is clear, temperatures are moderate, and the landscapes are most scenic.