The lodge occupies three joined buildings in Kagbeni's old core, with minimal modern changes. At its centre is a shrine room said to be more than 300 years old, holding a large clay statue of Maitreya Buddha on a carved and painted altar. The family has hosted travellers for decades, and the name came from a visitor who painted a signboard for the house, then entirely red. Rooms are simple and clean, with attached bathrooms and views over the rooftops or the river.
Staying here puts you within a few minutes of Kag Chode monastery, the Kali Gandaki confluence for Shaligram and shraddha, and the Upper Mustang checkpoint. The dining room serves Nepali, Tibetan and Western dishes. Facilities are those of a good village lodge rather than a hotel, so expect solar hot water and modest heating. We book it for trekkers starting Upper Mustang and for travellers who want one night in a characterful house.
Why we book it
- Centuries-old house with its own shrine and Maitreya statue
- In the old village, minutes from the monastery and the river
- Ideal first night for Upper Mustang treks and jeep tours
Best for
- Couples
- Photographers
- Trekkers
- Solo
Questions travellers ask
Is Red House Lodge in Kagbeni comfortable?
It is a comfortable village lodge with clean rooms and attached bathrooms, not a hotel. Hot water is solar-heated and rooms are cool at night, with good blankets. What makes it special is the building and the shrine room. Guests who want heated rooms should stay in Jomsom and visit Kagbeni for the day.
Can non-guests visit the shrine at Red House Lodge?
Visitors often stop for tea or a meal and ask to see the shrine room with the Maitreya statue; the family usually agrees if it is convenient. Remove shoes, keep voices low and ask before taking photographs. A small donation is appreciated and helps maintain the old building.
Is Red House Lodge good for Upper Mustang treks?
Yes. Kagbeni is the gateway to Upper Mustang, and Red House Lodge is a short walk from the checkpoint, so it is an ideal place to spend the night before entering the restricted area. Many itineraries fly to Jomsom, walk or drive to Kagbeni and start north the next morning.
