Leaving Namrung, the trail climbs gently through fields to Banjam and then Lihi at about 2,920 m. Lihi is a sprawling village with chortens at each end, houses with carved wooden window frames and terraces of barley and buckwheat. In autumn families thresh grain on the rooftops, and you may see women spinning wool as they walk.
Sho, a little higher, has some of the longest mani walls in the lower Nubri, lined with stones carved with mantras and images of Buddhist deities. Pass on the left side of the walls so they are on your right, as local people do. From around Sho the summit of Manaslu begins to appear ahead, framed by the valley.
Take your time. The day's walking to Lho is only 4 to 5 hours, about 11 km with 550 m of gain, so there is room for tea in Lihi, photographs and conversation. Sleeping at Lho, around 3,180 m, keeps your altitude gain reasonable.
Good for
- Photographers
- Families
- Couples
- Pilgrims
Questions travellers ask
How long is the walk from Namrung to Lho?
About 4 to 5 hours for roughly 11 km, with around 550 m of height gain. The path passes Banjam, Lihi and Sho on a gentle grade. It is one of the shorter days, which helps acclimatisation and leaves time to explore the villages on the way.
Why do I walk on the left of mani walls?
Tibetan Buddhist tradition is to keep sacred objects such as mani walls, chortens and prayer wheels on your right, so you pass them on the left and circle them clockwise. It shows respect and local people appreciate it. Your guide will show you the right side as you go.
Can I visit homes in Lihi or Sho?
Sometimes. Ask your guide; families occasionally invite trekkers in for butter tea, and some guides know households well. Accept graciously, remove shoes if asked and offer a small gift or contribution. Do not walk into courtyards or houses uninvited.
