Mustang
The Last Forbidden Kingdom
The Last Forbidden Kingdom
Upper Mustang, once the forbidden Kingdom of Lo, was closed to outsiders until 1992. This remote, arid region on the Tibetan plateau retains an extraordinary medieval Tibetan Buddhist culture virtually unchanged for centuries. Dramatic eroded cliffs, ancient cave monasteries, and whitewashed villages create a landscape from another world.
The walled city of Lo Manthang — still guided by its traditional king — is the crown jewel. Its ancient palaces, cave dwellings with centuries-old murals, and the vibrant Tiji Festival (held in May) make Mustang one of the most unique and remote destinations on earth.
Altitude: 2,800–4,000m | Best Time: Mar–Nov | Restricted Area Permit Required
Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Lo, frozen in medieval time.
Discover ancient cave monasteries with 1,000-year-old Buddhist murals hidden in the dramatic cliff faces.
Witness the spectacular three-day Tiji Festival in May — a vibrant celebration of Mustang's Buddhist heritage.
Marvel at the otherworldly red and ochre eroded canyons — Nepal's most surreal and dramatic landscape.
Mustang — The Last Forbidden Kingdom — from our illustrated Nepal destination cards.
Nepal illustrated panorama — featuring Mustang among Nepal's iconic landmarks.