Walk into the walled city of Lo Manthang, the old Kingdom of Lo
Overview
A walk through a high desert to Lo Manthang (3,840 m), the walled capital of the former Kingdom of Lo. Red cliffs, cave dwellings and 15th-century monasteries make this the most cultural trek in Nepal.
Fly Pokhara to Jomsom and walk to Kagbeni, the gateway to the restricted area. Follow the Kali Gandaki north through Chele, Syangboche, Ghami and Tsarang to Lo Manthang, with a full day there. Return by a different trail via Lo Gekar, Drakmar and Ghiling, then fly back from Jomsom.
Anyone fit enough for 5–7 hours a day on dusty, windy trails. Altitude stays under 4,100 m, so it suits first-timers who want culture. It is one of the few treks you can do in Jun–Aug.
Why book with us: We arrange the restricted area permit, a licensed guide who speaks English or Spanish, and small groups of up to 12.
5 to 7 hours a day with some steep sections. Suits active beginners.
Day By Day
Highest point reached each day, taken from the itinerary. Gradual gains give your body time to acclimatize.
Airport pickup and transfer to your hotel in Thamel. Trek briefing in the evening while we finalise your restricted permit.
A 25-minute flight to Pokhara. Afternoon free by Phewa Lake.
Early flight between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna to Jomsom, then an easy walk up the wide Kali Gandaki riverbed to Kagbeni. 3–4 hours.
Permit check at Kagbeni, then north along the river past Tangbe and Chhusang to the village of Chele. 6–7 hours.
Climb over two small passes with views back to Nilgiri and Annapurna, past chortens and cave dwellings. 6–7 hours.
Cross the Nyi La (4,010 m), the highest point of the trek, then descend to Ghami and its long mani wall. 5–6 hours.
Pass red cliffs and one of Nepal’s longest mani walls to Tsarang, with its old palace and monastery. 4–5 hours.
Cross the Lo La and see the walled city appear below. Afternoon walk through its lanes. 4–5 hours.
Visit the Jampa and Thubchen monasteries, then hike or ride to the Chhoser sky caves near the Tibetan border.
Take the eastern return trail to Lo Gekar (Ghar Gompa), one of the oldest monasteries in Nepal, then to Drakmar under red cliffs. 6–7 hours.
An easy day past Ghami to the farming village of Ghiling. 4–5 hours.
Retrace the trail over the small passes and descend to Chhusang. 6–7 hours.
Follow the river back through Kagbeni to Jomsom. The afternoon wind picks up, so we start early. 6–7 hours.
Morning flight to Pokhara. Afternoon free to rest or go boating on Phewa Lake.
Short flight back to Kathmandu. Afternoon free, and the day can absorb a Jomsom flight delay.
Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Good To Know
Included
Not included
Best Time To Go
Recommended: Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov. We run this trek on the dates you choose. Tell us when you would like to go and we will check conditions for you.
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Reviews
My trekking experience in Nepal was absolutely incredible. From arriving in Kathmandu to the mountains of the Himalaya, everything was perfectly organised. The guides were professional, attentive and very knowledgeable about the region. I felt safe at all times, even travelling alone. Without a doubt, I recommend this...
I went on a solo trekking adventure to the Everest region with Unique Nepal Treks and Expedition, and it was life-changing! The itinerary was perfectly planned, and the guides were knowledgeable and friendly. From arranging flights and hotels to transportation and trekking support, everything was seamless. I felt safe...
From the moment I landed in Nepal, everything was taken care of with professionalism and warmth. As a solo female traveler, I felt completely safe and supported throughout the trek. The landscapes were breathtaking, and the experience was life-changing. I highly recommend this agency — they are truly the best in Nepal...
Sophie Laurent
France
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