We enter through the single main gate, where a giant prayer wheel turns, and start at Jampa Lhakhang, the temple of the future Buddha Maitreya. Built in the 15th century, its ground floor is a dark hall dominated by a towering clay Maitreya and mandalas painted directly onto the walls in gold, lapis and malachite colours. Conservators and local painters spent years cleaning soot and repairing cracks; your guide explains what was found under the grime.
Next is Thubchen Gompa, a tall red hall with 35 wooden pillars and murals of the Buddhas of the past, present and future. From there we cross to Chhoede Gompa, the active monastery where young monks study and where the Tiji dances are organised. Its small museum displays masks, costumes and old manuscripts. Each gompa has its own caretaker and fee, which goes towards upkeep.
The tour ends in the palace square, beneath the four-storey royal palace. The Bista family, descendants of the last kings of Lo, still own it; whether you can visit the interior depends on repairs and the family's presence, so we ask on the day. Between sites we wander lanes of whitewashed houses with firewood stacked on the rooftops and horses tethered in courtyards.
Good for
- Couples
- Photographers
- First-timers
- Seniors
Questions travellers ask
Can you take photos inside Lo Manthang monasteries?
Generally no. Photography is not allowed inside Jampa Lhakhang and Thubchen Gompa to protect the murals and out of respect, and caretakers enforce it. You can photograph the exteriors, courtyards and lanes. Some smaller shrines allow photos without flash if you ask. Never use flash near the old paintings.
How old is Lo Manthang?
Lo Manthang was founded around 1380 by Ame Pal, the first king of Lo, and its main temples date to the 15th century: Jampa Lhakhang from about 1448 and Thubchen Gompa from around 1470. The walls and palace were rebuilt and repaired many times since, most recently after the 2015 earthquake.
Can we visit the royal palace in Lo Manthang?
Sometimes. The palace is private property of the former royal family and was damaged in the 2015 earthquake, with restoration ongoing. Access to the interior depends on the family's permission and the state of repairs. Your guide will ask locally. The exterior and palace square are always open to visitors.
