Upper Mustang & Lo Manthang: The Walled Forbidden Kingdom
Journey into the rain-shadow desert of the Tibetan Plateau to explore the ancient walled royal capital of Lo Manthang, medieval sky caves, and centuries-old Tibetan monasteries.
The Expedition Experience
Upper Mustang was hidden from the outside world until 1992, preserving an intact Tibetan culture, royal lineage, and landscape that feels like stepping into Shangri-La. This luxury 4x4 expedition takes you across dry wind-sculpted sandstone canyons, eroded cliff formations, and whitewashed chortens beneath Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. Stay in boutique mountain lodges, visit the royal palace of Lo Manthang, explore the mysterious Jhong Sky Caves of Chhoser, and receive private blessings from senior lamas at Choedhe Monastery.
Expedition Highlights
Day-by-Day Itinerary
10 Days PlannedArrive in scenic Pokhara, check into your lakeside luxury resort, and enjoy an evening private boat cruise on Phewa Lake with Annapurna reflections.
What's Included
- •Upper Mustang Restricted Area Special Permit ($500 value included)
- •4x4 luxury private Land Cruiser / Scorpio with professional mountain driver
- •9 nights handpicked boutique heritage lodges & best teahouse suites
- •All daily organic meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with hot ginger-lemon tea
- •English-speaking Mustang licensed cultural & mountain guide
- •Medical first aid kit with portable oxygen and oximeter checks
What's Excluded
- •International flights to Kathmandu
- •Personal trekking gear and tips for guides and drivers
- •Travel & medical evacuation insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
100% verified travelers who completed this expedition
“Stepping inside Lo Manthang felt like traveling back 500 years”
Upper Mustang was the most surreal landscape we have ever witnessed on planet Earth. The red canyons, the ancient sky caves, and the monks at Choedhe monastery chanting in the morning... The 4x4 was comfortable and handled every river crossing effortlessly. 10/10 expedition.