Lower Mustang

Culturally distinct and incredibly beautiful, Lower Mustang is part of the mysterious Forbidden Kingdom of Lo (Mustang) and lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area. With the soaring peaks of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri forming a spectacular backdrop, this region is renowned for its magnificent scenery of arid moonscape, spectacular gorges and pockets of emerald green oases in the midst of barren, high-altitude desert-like landscape.

Lower Mustang is an ideal base for visitors to set off on scenic day hikes, discover isolated Nepalese villages stuck in a medieval time warp and experience the rustic charm and the Tibetan Buddhist culture of the local Thakali people. A typical 4-day Lower Mustang experience begins with a hike to the quaint village of Thini, where you will discover the hilltop ruins of Gharab Dzong, before following the trail to the sacred and stunningly beautiful emerald-green Dhumba Lake. On this trail, you will also visit Marpha village, famed for its apple orchards and where you will have the chance to interact with the Thakali people and taste Marpha’s famous Apple Pie and Cider.

The highlight will be a stimulating hike to Kagbeni that will take you along the Kali Gandaki River and through a surreal landscape that looks like the moon’s surface. Kagbeni is regarded as the ‘Gateway to Upper Mustang’ and straddles the border between Lower and Upper Mustang. This small town was once an important hub along the old trade route. Today, all that remains are the ruins of a 16th-century fortress and an austere 15th-century monastery affectionately called the Red Monastery. Along the way, you will also visit the holy Muktinath Temple, discover Nepal’s last remaining Bon monastery in Lupra village, and interact with monks and villagers to gain an in-depth understanding of their way of life. Lower Mustang is ideal for visitors seeking insight into a vanishing culture and way of life without compromising on creature comforts.