Gandaki, Trans-Himalaya
Mustang lies behind the Himalayas in Nepal's rain shadow, so it is dry and open even during the monsoon. Upper Mustang, a restricted area that needs a special permit, was closed to foreigners until 1992 and still feels like Tibet, with red cliffs, sky caves, whitewashed monasteries and the walled town of Lo Manthang. The road follows the Kali Gandaki, one of the deepest gorges on earth. You can reach Upper Mustang on a trek or, more comfortably, in a four-wheel-drive vehicle. May to October is the best time to visit, and the Tiji festival is held in spring.
