At about 3,800 m, Lo Manthang is not extreme, but the combination of altitude, dryness, wind and cold catches many visitors out.
Acclimatisation
Spend a night at Kagbeni or Jomsom and advance gradually. Drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol on the first night. See altitude on the Upper Mustang trek.
Wind and dust
Wind is strong in the afternoon and dust is constant. Carry a buff, sunglasses and a lip balm, and keep cameras sealed.
Cold
Nights are cold even in autumn. Bring a warm sleeping bag, a hat and a down jacket. Rooms are rarely heated.
Dry air
Dry air can cause nosebleeds, cracked lips and sore throats. Carry moisturiser, nasal saline and throat lozenges.
Evacuation
Jeep or helicopter evacuation is possible but not immediate. Your insurance should cover it.
A simple health checklist
- Drink at least three litres of water a day.
- Limit alcohol on arrival nights.
- Wear layers and a hat indoors if rooms are unheated.
- Use lip balm, moisturiser and saline spray against dry air.
- Tell your guide about headaches, nausea or poor sleep.
Sleeping well
Nights are cold and dry. A warm sleeping bag, a hot water bottle and a hat help. Open a window slightly if the room feels stuffy, but expect it to be chilly. Earplugs can help if dogs bark or lodges are noisy.
When to descend
If symptoms worsen despite rest and fluids, descend. Lo Manthang is not the highest point on many Mustang itineraries, but remoteness makes caution wise.
Clothing in layers for the walled city
- Thermal base layer for sleeping.
- Fleece and down jacket for evenings.
- Windproof shell for walks.
- Wool hat and gloves.
- Sun hat, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen for midday.
- Sturdy shoes: the lanes are rough and dusty.
Common questions
Is altitude sickness common in Lo Manthang?
It is less common than at higher treks, but can occur if you ascend too quickly.
How cold does it get?
Nights can fall below freezing outside summer.
Is the air dry?
Yes. Carry moisturiser and drink plenty of water.
Dry cold at 3,800 m
Lo Manthang sits at about 3,800 m with dry, windy conditions. Nights are cold, so pack layers and moisturiser.
