Trekking · Tsarang
Walk from Tsarang to the walled city
The last stage of the Upper Mustang trek: a short, gentle walk north from Tsarang over a low pass to the ridge above Lo Manthang, where the walled city appears below, and down through the fields to its single gate.
We leave Tsarang after breakfast, crossing the canyon on a path that drops down and climbs out the other side, then heading north across open, rolling country. The walk is shorter and gentler than earlier days, about 3–4 hours. The trail climbs slowly to a pass marked by a chorten and prayer flags, about 3,900 m, with wide views back towards Tsarang and ahead to the hills of Lo. Take it slowly and enjoy it.
From the pass, the walled city of Lo Manthang appears below on its plain: a rectangle of high walls with houses, gompas and the palace packed inside, surrounded by fields and the small villages around it. It is the moment that the whole trek builds towards, and most people stop for a long time. Prayer flags snap in the wind around you. Take the photograph, then just look. Few arrivals anywhere compare.
We descend through fields and past chortens to the city gate, arriving before lunch. That leaves the afternoon to rest and take a first walk inside the walls. Luggage comes by pony or jeep. The day is short so that you have energy for Lo Manthang, which deserves at least two nights; many people find the arrival on foot the best part of the whole trip. Enjoy the arrival. Rest well tonight.
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Questions
How far is Tsarang from Lo Manthang?
On foot it is about 3–4 hours, crossing a low pass of about 3,900 m with views of the walled city from the ridge. By jeep it takes under an hour on the main road. Most trekkers walk this stage, as the arrival on foot is one of the highlights of Upper Mustang.
Is the Tsarang to Lo Manthang walk difficult?
No, it is one of the easier days of the Upper Mustang trek: 3–4 hours, a gentle climb to a pass about 3,900 m and a long descent. By this point most trekkers are well acclimatised. Wind is the main challenge after midday, so start early and carry a windproof jacket.
How many nights should I spend in Lo Manthang?
At least two nights, so you have a full day to see the walled city, its gompas and the palace exterior, and another half day for a trip to Chhoser's caves or Namgyal gompa. Three nights lets you go slowly, which is wise at 3,840 m. During Tiji in May, add an extra night.
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