Mustang has been a forbidden land so far. It is opened for a limited number of tourists. Lo Manthang (Mustang) is located north of the main Himalayan chain between the snow capped mountains to the east and west - bordering Tibet. There is a relatively wide and leveled ridge towards the north with passes not higher than 4,600m. The climate and land is dry and arid. Villages are located in the valley at the altitude of 3,300m. to 4,000m. where important historical sites are also located. It was an important salt trading post in the trans-Himalayan belt. From Kagbeni to Tzug as you walk north to the Kali Gandaki Valley, the valley extends and becomes broader. As you walk towards Samar, it is surrounded by the ruins of temples and fortes. Visit the famous cave at Rongbyoung Chorten. It has carvings of many deities on the stone walls: the figure of Padmasambhava dominates all the deities. The famous cave speaks of the history of this valley of Lo before the advent of Buddhism. The journey from Giling to Tsarang passes through important ruins at Gemi. As Tsarang is approached after crossing the passes, the large monastery is evidently visible. In the monastery the fresco painting of a thousand Buddhas, hanging thankas and antique ceiling and other secret objects are reminder of its rich cultural past. After Tsarang, the walk to Lo Manthang is short. It is dotted by houses and monastery enclosed in the fortress. The route to Lo has been used for centuries by traders and a few scholars; and now by tourists.