Explore Thubchen Lhakhang Monastery in Upper Mustang Nepal

Quick Facts on Thubchen Lhakhang Monastery to Know

• Location: Located in Lo Manthang - a village situated in Upper Mustang, Nepal. 
• Year Built: Itwas constructed during the 15th century when King Tashi Gon was the king. 
• Architecture: It is a remarkable example of traditional Tibetan Buddhist architecture. 
• Size: Its approximate length i 37.2 m, width is 24 m, height is 12 m.
• Entryway: The entryway consists of six lion-head emblems and Ranjana script along the outer doorway. 
• Structure: It originally had 35 free-standing wood columns throughout the interior. 
• Roof: The skylight has a 36 x 36 ft lion head sculpture. 
• Murals/Art: The monastery has murals of ancient glass Buddhas as well as intricate mandalas. 
• Renovation: In 1998 there was a complete restoration with the roofs and the murals restored as well. 
• Use: As a multifunctional space, it functions as both a Mahayana Buddhist temple of worship and a community hall for the people of Lo Manthang.

Where is Thubchen Lhakhang Monastery Located?

• Location: Lo Manthang, Mustang
• Altitude: 3,840 meters
• Geography: Trans-Himalayan Terrain
• Restricted Area: Upper Mustang
• Cultural Hub: Near Royal Palace

Thubchen Lhakhang Monastery is a big 15th-century Buddhist monastery in the middle of Lo Manthang, the walled city of ancient Nepalese Kingdom of Lo, Mustang District, Nepal. Lo Manthang is in the far Upper Mustang area, a restricted area trek zone near Nepal's northern border with Tibet Autonomous Region of China.

Lo Manthang is geographically situated around 29.18306°N latitude and 83.95667°E longitude, and is about 3,840 meters or 12,600 ft above sea level. It is situated in the overall landscape of the trans-Himalayan topography with arid, mountainous, rocky cliffs, and broad plateaus around it.

Upper Mustang is a protected region in Nepal's Dhaulagiri Zone, open only by permit. The monastery sits inside the earthen fortifications of Lo Manthang, a medieval city inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list and home to Tibetan Buddhist culture dating back to the 15th century.

Earlier part of the ancient Kingdom of Lo, Thubchen Lhakhang has characteristic Tibetan architectural features such as stone-and-clay walls, woodwork carved with carvings, and an enormous entrance having six lion heads and Ranjana script carvings.

The monastery itself is located in the center of the Lo Manthang, quite close to more important buildings-the Royal Palace and the Jampa Lhhakhang Monastery-with a reflection on the important role that it also had in individuals' spiritual life as well as in their overall cultural life.

Other Monasteries in The Upper Mustang Region to Explore During Trekking 

Kag Chode Thupten Samphel Ling Monastery

• Location: Kagbeni village, Upper Mustang
• Established On: 15th century
• Sect: Sakya
• Entrance Charge: Varies (dependent on changes)
• Best Known For regular activities based on Buddhist rituals
• Festivals: Buddhist festivals

Kag Chode Monastery, a 15th-century pilgrimage site of Sakya school Tibetan Buddhism, is not just monk home, it is also religious institution, and community peoples' residential zone. Kad Chode contains traditional Tibetan architecture, prayer halls, paintings, and part of the original statues available in contemporary monasteries.

Tsarang Monastery (Charang Gompa)

• Location: Village Tsarang
• Date Established: 1378 (14th century)
• Entrance Fee: NPR 500 (changeable)
• Distinctive features: large gompa five-storied, comprehensive library
• Festival types: Tiji and tradition of the locals

Tsarang Monastery is one of the largest and renowned gompas of architecture in Upper Mustang. Tsarang Monastery lies along a ridge where the Tiji Festival is marked; with an effervescent mask, dance, and religiosity, visited by tourists too, along with the locals. It is famous for its magnificent assembly hall, medieval Buddhist texts and vibrant mandalas. Tsarang Monastery's position on a windy ridge provides a stunning view of the country, which helps to merge into both religious historic sites and view visibility. 

Jampa Lhakhang Monastery (Jampa Gompa)

• Location: walled city of Lo-Manthang
• Date Established: early 14th century or earlier
• Notables: "God House", relatively big Buddha statue, mandalas
• Festival types: rituals for Tiji festival and local festivals

Jampa Lhakang, or "God House," is one of the oldest and most famous monasteries in Mustang and has a massive statue of Maitreya (the future Buddha) and plenty of old mandalas and wall paintings of gods.

The monastery is important to the Lo-Manthang people because it is a focal point for most important rituals and festivals, most importantly the Tiji Festival. The combination of Nepali and Tibetan building and artwork is beautiful to see.

Chode Gompa, Lo-Manthang

• Location: Lo-Manthang
• Date Established: 13th century
• Sect: Sakya
• Types of festivals: principal rites, Tiji festival

Chode Gompa is the monastery of Lo-Manthang, the spiritual core. From the 13th century, it traces back to the Sakya tradition of Buddhism, has many important religious festivals and ceremonial rituals and was a case study for ancient texts. Chode Gompa plays an important part in Mustang's spiritual life; monks have a very hectic schedule of teaching and rituals throughout the year.

Ghar Gumba (Lo Gekar Monastery)

• Whereabouts: close to Marang village (Lo district)
• Establishment Date: 8th century (by Padmasambhava)
• Entrance Fee: small fee
• Famous Features: the oldest monastery site of Mustang
• Forms of festivals: - pilgrimage site local ceremonies

The renowned Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) founded the Ghar Gumba (Lo Gekar Monastery) in the 8th century and it is Mustang's oldest monastery.

It stands as a beautiful monastery, in a cliff-surrounded valley, which resonates in its spirituality. Ancient frescoes, rock carvings and carvings command the importance of the place. Ghar Gumba is one of the most renowned pilgrimage spots for people to gain blessings connected to the monastic culture and see the earliest Buddhist symbols found in Mustang. 

Luri Gompa Site

• Luri Gompa Site: Ghara village (Chhoser district)
• Foundation Date: 13th/14th century
• Entrance Fee: NPR 500 (variable)
• Salient Features: cave monastery, ancient murals
• Festival Types: rites and spiritual retreats

Luri Gompa, or Luri Gumba, is a beautiful cave monastery in the cliffs of Chhoser, possibly dating from the 13th or 14th centuries; it contains ancient murals, chortens and meditation eaves.

The monastery offers other details regarding the life and traditions of the cave-dweller Mustang; it is also a refuge for monks & hermits. Luri Gompa can be reached only by a short trek; the trekker is, however, gifted with spiritual energies and views of the Mustang country.

Niphu Gompa (Nyiphuk Namdol Norbuling Gompa)

• Location: Chhoser, near Garphu
• When: Established 14th Century
• Entrances Fees: Low
• Highlight: Cliffside Cave Monastery.
• Occasions: Retreats, meditation and other local relationships.

Niphu Gompa (Nyiphuk Namdol Norbuling Gompa) is an excellent institute located in Chhoser. In its foundation in the cliffs, it offers scenery and isolation. Liminal areas of the cave complex are prayer, meditation, and living areas for the monks, who have occupied the cave complex for more than a thousand years. Niphu presents the intersection of Mustang as a natural and cultural environment. It is a serene environment for reflection and wandering.

Namgyal Monastery (Thukten Dharkelin Gompa)

• Location: near Lo-Manthang
• Founded: 10th century
• Invite fee: Nominal
• Notable: religious and legal center
• Festivals: local celebrations, Tiji Festival

The Namgyal Monastery is known to the inhabitants of Lo-Manthang as their religious as well as judicial hub. Namgyal has been established since the 10th century and it's located far inside of the hill; you get a view over the valley below from the monastery. Namgyal serves the purpose of starting the process of the festivals as well as solving conflicts within the monastery as well as outside the monastery as well. Namgyal plays a great significance in the social as well as religious life of Mustang.

Terri Samdrub Chodhing Monastery

• Location: Tirigaon
• When Established: Recorded in local history
• Admission Fee: Low/local donation

Terri Samdrub Chodhing Monastery is among Upper Mustang's culturally based Buddhist sites. Even though the gompa is visited by fewer tourists than some of the more well-known gompas, it's a peaceful retreat for monks and locals alike. The monastery itself is so peaceful in atmosphere and architecture that one finds peace upon visiting it, which is just what the more off-the-beaten-path, less crowded Mustang visitors will appreciate to see.

Chhujung Gompa

• Location: Close to Dhigaon
• When Established: Ancient, takes extra days of travel
• Entry Fee: Donation
• Best Festivals: Seasonal pujas at village level, local rituals

Chhujung Gompa is a remote haven that requires more effort to visit as it lies in a distant place. The old structures and serene landscape compose an extraordinary beauty for the adventurers who are on the lookout for solitude and personal experience of Mustang's religious heritage. The monastery is uninhabited by man, and it is a tranquil residence for one's reflection and meditation.

Samduling Gompa

• Location: Near Lo-Manthang
• Founded: Ancient
• Entrance Fee: Donation
• Major Festivals: Losar (Tibetan New Year), minor Buddhist ceremonies

Samduling Gompa, near Lo-Manthang, is a serene monastery and introduces visitors to Mustang's less frenetic spiritual life. The monastery is besieged by crowds, however, during Losar for celebrations and prayers.

Chungsi Cave Monastery

• Location: Syangboche
• Founded: 8th century (meditation site of Guru Rinpoche)
• Admission Fee: Donations welcome
• Festivals: Local pilgrimages on Guru Rinpoche's birthday
• Special features: Old meditation halls, sacred cave

Chungsi Cave Monastery is famous for being the site where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) meditated in the 8th century. The monastery has a sacred cave, making it one of the most spiritually attractive sites in Mustang. Pilgrims are permitted into chambers where they can feel the mystic atmosphere that has been attracting people for centuries. The site is especially sacred when Guru Rinpoche festivities are held, with pilgrims attending from all over Mustang.

Jampa Lhakang Monastery

• Location: Walled city of Lo-Manthang
• Date of Construction: Early 14th c. approximately
• Cost of Entry: Donation
• Annual Highlights: Losar, Tiji, and local celebrations
• Description: Impressive incensed huge statue of Maitreya Buddha; mandalas

Jampal Lhakang Monastery is an extraordinary temple with mandalas, deity images, and the best woodwork. It is a fine specimen of the twinned Tibetan and Nepalese-styled structure, and we have to state it is conspicuously applicable to the culture and lives of the Lo-Manthang people. The Tiji Festival makes the monastery applicable to the practice of art and ritual not only for the Lo-Manthang people but also draws people from surrounding areas. Maitreya statue evokes compassionate and nurturing feelings towards an individual.

Garphu Monastery (Garghu Dhejing Chhyoling Gompa)

• Location: Garphu, Chhoser 
• Established: 15th-century 
• Entrance Fee: Donation 
• Main Festivals: local pujas, meditation retreats 
• Special Attractions: cliffside cave complex and meditation chambers

Garphu Monastery gives us a view into the cave-dwelling culture of Mustang, carved into the cliffs of Chhoser. Garphu Monastery is unique both architecturally and spiritually, offering monks a cloistered retreat and the locals a community chapel with its meditation chambers and living quarters. The dramatic site, with ancient murals, draws trekkers looking for a little history and a little retreat.

Discovering Thubchen Lhakhang Monastery: A Jewel in Mustang

An Introduction to Ancient Tibetan Buddhism

Hidden away from the solitude of Upper Mustang lies the Thubchen Lhakhang Monastery, the reminder of golden Tibetan Buddhist eras of this kingdom. This over-200-year-old monastery provides the singular chance to experience the religious and cultural rhythm of this erstwhile forbidden kingdom.

On entering inside the walled city of Lo Manthang, red-colored monastery walls and faraway fluttering prayer flags welcome you to step ahead to its holy premises.

Architectural Wonder and Artistic Gem

The moment you enter the monastery of Thubchen Lhakhang, you cannot deny its beautifully designed architecture and elegantly painted works of art on the walls. The interior monastery is a feast to the eyes with its intricate murals and valuable relics testifying to the land's own unique brand of indigenous art.

Single-story construction of 49 finely painted pillars built in 1470 during the reign of Tashi Gon, 3rd king of Lo-Manthang. Strolling along the extensive corridor and smaller rooms will familiarize you with a serene blend of Nepali and Tibetan cultures with subdued traces of Newari arts in paintings, script, and sculptures.

A Living Cultural Legacy

The Thubchen Lhakhang is the living embodiment of the bright and engaging Tibetan Buddhist practices which, at this moment in time, is particularly relevant, as Thubchen still serves a crucial role in the spiritual life of the sickle people and is a center of religious practice and ceremonial activities throughout the year, including the widely well known event of the Tiji Festival in the spring.

When we visit Thubchen one is welcomed into the cultural beliefs, language, customs, and traditions of the Loba people of Upper Mustang, the indigenous people of the region. One cannot help but be immersed in the rich history and living spiritual surroundings of this important cultural site as you traverse the halls of prayer, shrines, and chapels.

How was Thubchen Lhakhang Constructed?

Thubchen Lhakhang Monastery of Upper Mustang in Nepal was constructed in the 15th century by King Tashi Goen. It was constructed employing very skilled craftsmen and artists, who were mainly hired from Tibet, in order to provide employment for true Tibetan Buddhist architecture designs.

Wood, stone, and clay were the construction materials available to use in constructing the building. Timber members assisted the walls of sun-dried mud brick to provide support to give it strength. Ceiling and interior walls were plastered and ornamented with beautiful wall paintings, indicative of the craftsmanship level during those eras.

The Dukhang, the main hall of the monastery, is a massive gathering hall held up by many wooden pillars. The roof is topped by a central skylight through which daylight pours into the interior. The walls feature enormous murals of the different Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, showing the richness of Tibetan Buddhist iconography.

Thubchen Lhakhang has been restored on several occasions in the past in order to enhance its structural integrity as well as its artistic heritage. Most crucial was the 1998 restoration, with structural rehabilitation and preservation of the paintings on the walls so that the monastery would become a symbol of culture and religion in Mustang.

Exploring the architectural features of Thubchen Lhakhang​

Thubchen Lhakhang Monastery is an eternal piece of art and Tibetan architecture built in the 15th century. It is located in the Lo Manthang, where there is a high influence of Tibetan culture and heritage.

Architecture Overview

• Dimensions and Design: Built using stone, clay, and wood, the monastery is around 37.2 meters long, 24 meters wide and 12 meters tall.
• Entrance: A well-wood frame there of carving on the door, along with the Ranjana letter-carving scripture; an eastern entrance consists of a line of successive lion heads of six heads.
• Interior Design: Terracotta statues of Dhvajarāja and Dhṛtarāṣṭra and Vīṇārāja and Vaiśrāvaṇa are carved into the left and right-hand sides of the entrance upon reaching the site.

Main Hall (Dhunkhang)

• Pillars: The large hall is supported by 35 of the original 42 wooden pillars due to changes in the historic structure.
• Ceiling and Skylight: A large skylight is designed and supported by a square of 36 lion heads that allows daylight to enter.

Mural Paintings

• Eastern Wall: Composed of six large images of the Buddha in serene positions, surrounded by a circular frame of 1,000 Buddhas and with a central Standing Vairocana Buddha, the Buddha of Limitless Light, in the Dharmachakra Mudra. ​       
• Southern and Western Walls: Display eight more images of the Buddha (each 7 meters high x 3.4 meters wide), produced in the 15th century.
• Northern Wall: Also reconstructed in the 19th century, it helps to enrich the monastery's array of religious images.

What Makes the Mural Paintings Unique?

The mural paintings of Thubchen Lhakhang Monastery in Lo Manthang, Nepal, are celebrated for their exceptional artistry and historical significance. These 15th-century artworks not only showcase the spiritual narratives of Tibetan Buddhism but also exemplify advanced techniques and materials used by artists of that era.​

The Significance of Thubchen Lhakhang's Architecture and Murals

A Masterwork of Tibetan Buddhist Architecture

Thubchen Lhakhang Monastery in Lo Manthang, a city that surpasses time itself, is witness to the legacy of Tibetan architecture that will stand the test of eternity. Built in the 15th century, this monolithic temple testifies more than anything else to the skill of its engineers in the sparse design and elegance.

The huge entrance covered with six majestic lion heads and wood carvings of the Ranjana script mesmerizes visitors and invites visitors into the loveliness to be found in the interiors.

Awe-Inspiring Interior Design

Enter Thubchen Lhakhang, and you're in the domain of mind-twisting beauty. The 35 wooden pillars supporting the central hall leave you agape and wonder-struck. Gaze up, and there you will see a center ceiling framed by a skylight lined with 36 lion heads so that outside world light can filter into the sacred space below.

This beautiful idea not only serves to contribute to the religious environment but also helps to describe the subtle construction practices adopted by the builders.

Religious Significance

The monastery is a religious Tibetan Buddhist site and religious practice and study zone. The monastery plays a very important role in maintaining Buddhism traditions in the area.

The Tiji Festival, celebrated every year in Thubchen Lhakhang, is an important festival in which monks perform masked dances of good and evil. Pilgrims and travelers from all over the globe are attracted to the site every year with the celebration of the festival.

Colourful Murals: Peeping into the Past

The best jewels of Thubchen Lhakhang are the 15th-century AD mural paintings. The murals of Tibetan Buddhist art are adorned on the walls and include numerous postures of Buddha, little Buddhas, and Vairocana Buddha. The murals of southern and western walls are 7 meters high and 3.40 meters broad, captivating the eyes of pilgrims and tourists.

The most sophisticated scientific studies have revealed the sophisticated techniques and materials used in the application of these murals. The artists used an enormous range of pigments like azurite, lazurite, orpiment, and vermilion to bring their imagination to life. A novel gilding technique using pararealgar as a mordant has also been revealed, which talks volumes about the sophisticated nature of the expertise of the era.

What Festivals are Celebrated at Thubchen Lhakhang?

Lo Manthang Monastery of Upper Mustang is a Tibetan religious and cultural site. Even though it is most renowned for its annual Tiji Festival, cultural and historic documents show that it is surrounded by other Lo Manthang citizen religious festivals.

Tiji Festival (24–26 May, 2025)

The holiest of the monastery's festivals is the Tiji Festival in Lo-Manthang Upper Mustang (Tenpa Chirim, "Prayer for World Peace"), which is held annually for three days in May. According to traditional Tibetan Buddhist legend, it is kept to commemorate the fight between Dorje Jono (an incarnation of Vajrapani) and a demon who had caused drought and devastation, and the triumph of love over evil.

How Is the Tiji Festival Celebrated?

Day 1: May 24, 2025

Afternoon festivities begin with the "Tsa Chham" dance routine by the Chhode Monastery monks. It is a ritual and praying to the gods to bless sacred grounds.

Day 2: May 25, 2025

Day two is marked by the "Nga Chham" dance in which Dorje Sonnu is reincarnated as the son of the demon. The dances start featuring more weapons, along with the transformation of dancers into animal forms on the way to vanquishing the evil energy. The peak of the dances is the symbolic stabbing of the demon with a ceremonial blade by the priest in order to represent good and evil four primary aspects of existence.

Day 3: May 26, 2025

On the final day of the event, the monks arrive dressed in intricate masks and outfits to represent the blessing and forced sending of the demon to the realm of King Buddha far away. The dancers in the masks begin a procession, followed by the King, royal family members, and local people. The procession ends with a series of festivities, ending with prayers at the palace of the King of Mustang.

Role of Thubchen Lhakhang in Celebrating The Tiji Festival 

• Historical Site: Where preparations for rituals are performed, e.g., the consecrating of instruments and masks, in the main hall and monastery courtyard.
• Cultural Conservation: Vajrapani and some other gods of prime importance to the story of Tiji are shown in Thubchen murals, highlighting the religious background of the festival.

Losar (Tibetan New Year)

While the Losar (February/March) is typically celebrated more in Chode Gompa and the Royal Palace, Thubchen Lhakhang is engaged with:

• Prayer Ceremonies: More pujas (prayers) by monks for new year blessings.
• Butter Lamp Offerings: Lamps adorn monastery altars, and guardian god murals like Mahakala are ritually honored.

Daily and Seasonal Rituals

Thubchen Lhakhang is kept busy year-round with smaller scale observances

• Monthly Full Moon Pujas: In memory of Sakyamuni Buddha and Vairocana teachings, whose 7-meter-tall painting adorns the east wall.
• Harvest Festivals: Not specifically celebrated at Thubchen, Upper Mustang agricultural cycles frequently include monastery-held blessings of crops.

Restoration-Related Ceremonies

After the restoration in 1998, there were times when monks were invited to have Pujas, rituals conducted after renovations to reconsecrate the buildings and murals that were changed. Monks chant scriptural passages so that the places that have been repaired, especially the skylight and murals that were repainted, can be made sacred.

How To Reach Thubchen Lhakhang Monastery in Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang?

Thubchen Lhakhang Lo Manthang Monastery is a 15th-century Buddhist monastery situated in Upper Mustang, Nepal, and is renowned for its history and wall paintings in exquisite detail. Its guests usually embark on a multi-phased journey from Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, to Lo Manthang.

Traveling from Kathmandu to Pokhara:

The journey begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a beautiful city well known for its calm lakes and mountain views. There are two major means of beginning the trek:

• By Air: Daily flights from Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, are operated by local airlines to Pokhara Airport. It takes 25 minutes and a bird's eye view of the Himalayan foot hills can be seen.
• By Road: Travellers on a budget can travel in private vehicles or tourist buses from Kathmandu to Pokhara. It takes 6-7 hours and also goes through rural villages.

Proceeding from Pokhara to Jomsom

The trek starts at Pokhara and carries on to Jomsom, which is the gateway of Upper Mustang. There are two alternative means to get to Jomsom: 

• By Air: Multiple flights operate from Pokhara Airport to Jomsom Airport, approximately 20 minutes flight time. It affords breathtaking views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains whilst in the air.
• By Road: By road, it is also possible to travel from Pokhara to Jomsom which can be done in 8-10 hours by local bus or jeep. The road trek is along the Kali Gandaki River, where you can enjoy the view of village settlements and agricultural fields along the hillside.

Traveling from Jomsom to Lo Manthang

The final leg is from Lo Manthang to Jomsom, the administrative and cultural as well as capital of Upper Mustang. Commonest mode of transport given the terrain and infrastructure constraints is motor road transport:

• By Jeep: The simplest method of reaching Jomsom to Lo Manthang is by a rented jeep. It's 6-7 hours over the villages of Kagbeni, Chele, and Syangbochen. The journey is through superb Himalayan scenery and exposure to the life of the villages.
• By MotorCycle: Adventurists may also attempt motorcycle renting in Jomsom because it promises liberty and genuineness of experience. Motor cyclists, however, need to be prepared for off-road driving and equipped with protective gear and licenses.

Trekking and Climbing Opportunities around the Thubchen Lhakhang Monastery

Trekking in Upper Mustang

Upper Mustang region has a unique experience in trekking in its dry desert terrain. The remote region, the "Forbidden Kingdom of Mustang", contains exotic rock formations, snow-capped mountains, and Tibetan Buddhist history beautifully preserved. The trekker gets the experience to see old monasteries, painted villages, and Lo Manthang, the walled city, providing a rich cultural experience.

The walk is 14-18 days and is about 125 kilometres long. While moderately difficult, it is also within the reach of the moderately fit hiker. The walk follows the Kali Gandaki Valley along villages like Kagbeni, Chele, and Ghami. The walkers can have long walking days of 5-7 hours a day with potential altitude problems.

Outline Itinerary For Upper Mustang Trekking

Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu.

Day 2:Free day in Kathmandu & trek preparation.

Day 3:Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara valley: 7-8 hrs drive

Day 4:Fly to Jomsom & trek to Kagbeni, 3-4 hrs walking

Day 5:Kagbeni to chele, 5-6 hrs walk(3100m)

Day 6:Chele to Syanbochen, 6-7 hrs walk

Day 7:Syanbochen to Ghaymi, 5-6 hrs walk

Day 8:Ghaymi to Charang, 4-5 hrs walk

Day 9:Charang to Lo-Manthang, 5-6 hrs walk

Day 10:Explore Lo-Manthang

Day 11:Lo-Manthang to Ghar Gompa, 4-5 hrs walk

Day 12:Ghar Gompa to Ghiling, 5-6 hrs walk

Day 13:Ghiling to Chele, 5-6 hrs walk

Day 14:Chele to Jomsom, 6-7 hrs walk

Day 15:Fly back to Pokhara & Free relax day in Pokhara

Day 16:Drive back to Kathmandu from Pokhara

Day 17:Departure from Kathmandu

Peak Climbing Adventures

For the braver travelers, there is an intriguing peak climbing experience in Mustang. Saribung Peak Climbing, as included in the Upper Mustang Trek, is a venture of mountaineering adventure with breathtaking rewards. The trek presents the mountaineers with the experience of ascending Saribung Peak (6,346m) and savoring the cultural heritage of Upper Mustang.

The best time for trekking and climbing in Mustang is during autumn (September to November) and spring (April to June) when weather conditions are at their best. Unlike the remainder of Nepal, Upper Mustang, though, remains accessible during monsoon season as it is within the Himalayan rain shadow.

Outline Itinerary For Saribung Peak Climbing

Day 1:Arrive at Kathmandu transfer to Hotel

Day 2:Sightseeing at Kathmandu

Day 3:Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Day 4:Morning flight to Jomsom & Trek to Kagbeni

Day 5:Trek from Kagbeni to Chele

Day 6:Trek from Chele to Geling

Day 7:Trek from Geling to Tsarang

Day 8:Trek from Tsarang to Lo-Manthang

Day 9:Exploration day at Upper Mustang – Lo Manthang

Day 10:Trek from Lo-Manthang to Yara

Day 11:Trek from Yara to Luri Gompa

Day 12:Trek from Luri Gompa to Ghuma Tanthi

Day 13:Trek from Ghuma Tanthi to Namta Khola

Day 14:Trek from Namta Khola to Saribung Base Camp

Day 15:Acclimatization day at the Base Camp

Day 16:Ascend climb from Base Camp to High Camp I

Day 17:Summit Saribung Peak 6328m back to Base Camp

Day 18:Trek from Base Camp to Nagoru 4400 Meters via Saribung Pass 6020 Meters

Day 19:Trek from Nagoru to Phu Gaun

Day 20:Trek from Phu Gaun to Meta

Day 21:Trek from Meta to Koto

Day 22:Trek from Koto to Dharapani

Day 23:Back from Dharapani to Kathmandu

Day 24:Free day in Kathmandu

Day 25:Transfer to International Airport for Departure

What Essential Permits Are Required to Visit Thubchen Lhakhang Monastery, Upper Mustang?

A trip to Lo Manthang Thubchen Lhakhang Monastery, Upper Mustang, Nepal, includes the purchase of a series of permits because the place is one of the restricted trekking area in Nepal and efforts are made to preserve its natural and cultural heritage. A step-by-step analysis of the permits one will be required to purchase when making this trip is as follows:

Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

Upper Mustang is a Restricted Area in the Government of Nepal and thus needs a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit.

• Cost: USD 500 per person for the first 10 days. For each additional day, USD 50 per person.
• Validity: The first permit is valid for 10 days, and it can be extended by paying the additional daily tariff.
• Group Requirement: The permits are issued to two or more trekking groups only. Individual travellers must either join an already booked group or hire another individual on an employment basis via a trekking agency.
• Application Process: The permits must be applied for by a Nepal-registered trekking agency.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Since Upper Mustang is within the Annapurna Conservation Area, an ACAP is required.

• Fee: NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25) per person.
• Validity: Throughout your trekking experience in the conservation area.
• Application Process: From registered trekking agencies or Nepal Tourism Board offices in Pokhara and Kathmandu.

Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card

TIMS card is made to provide trekkers with the security and safety of trekkers in Nepal.​

• Price: USD 20 per person.
• Validity period: It is valid for your trek.​
• Issue Process: They are issued by the Nepal Tourism Board and Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) through licensed trekking agencies.​

Documents and Requirements to Obtain Permit

To obtain permits to trek to Thubchen Lhakhang Monastery in Upper Mustang, the following items should be booked and sent to us prior to your trek: 

• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the time of travel. 
• Nepal Entry Visa: You will need to have an active Visa to enter Nepal. 
• Passport Photos: Two passport-size photos are usually both requested when applying for permits. 
• Application forms: You will also need to have your Restricted Area Permit (RAP) application form and your Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) application form filled out. 
• Travel Insurance: You will find that not all tour companies require this item, but sometimes a tour company will ask for proof of travel insurance in order to include trekking at a high altitude. 
• Trekking Agency: The Upper Mustang trekking permits must be acquired through the approved Nepal trekking agency, and as a solo trekker, you cannot apply from the Government of Nepal. 
• Group Requirement: A minimum of two trekkers is required to obtain the Restricted Area Permit to Visit the Upper Mustang as well as the Monastery.