The Forbidden Kingdom of Mustang is one of Nepal’s greatest national treasures. Surrounded by mountainous plateaus in the east and west, Upper Mustang is renowned for its contrasting natural beauty. An arid land with bare hills, imposing silver vistas of snow-capped mountains and rich seasonal colors. It is a luscious green during harvest months and crimson throughout Autumn.
Upper Mustang has two distinct regions. The northern area belongs to the surviving walled-in kingdom of the Lo introduced by Ame Pal in the 14th century. Languages, culture, and traditions of the Lo are almost purely Tibetan. The southern part has five villages inhabited by Manangi descendants. It is home to Jong Gharpu, a 5-story mountain cave which in ancient times was fitted out with 44 rooms, and to Muktinath (ChumigGyatsa), a major settlement, the holy place and pilgrimage for Buddhists and Hindus.
Until recently, Upper Mustang was isolated with very limited travelers able to enter this sacred region.
