Inaccessible until very recently, Mustang is one of the remotest regions of Nepal, sheltered by some of the world's tallest mountains. Close to Tibet both geographically and culturally, it is a land of striking mountainscapes, colorful monasteries, and an ancient culture that is remarkably well preserved.
Built of locally sourced stone, slate, and wood, with interiors that reflect the local flavor and texture — and Bill Bensley’s signature flair — the Shinta Mani Mustang is nestled beneath the Nilgiri mountains, with spellbinding views at every turn and luxuries unheard of in the remote Himalaya.
Shinta Mani Mustang is perched high above the town of Jomsom, the gateway to Mustang, an isolated kingdom in Nepal that was forbidden to outsiders for centuries. This almost mythical region, hidden in the Kali Gandaki Valley between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, is one of the deepest gorges — and most unusual places — in the world.
The original stone building, designed by Nepalese architect Prabal Thapa, is set within the local landscape, nearly camouflaged on the mountainside. The design incorporates passive solar principles to minimize energy consumption, while extensive insulation reduces heat loss and gain. The internal courtyard provides shelter from the powerful Jomsom winds, and strategically placed berms and bioswales in the landscaping protect the buildings from the elements.
The resort’s elegant interiors showcase the Bensley magic touch while utilizing local materials, hand-picked art, and rich textiles. We proudly display works by renowned artist Robert Powell, a friend of Bill’s who was known for his work across the Himalayas. Beautiful handmade rugs were sourced from Mt. Refuge, a boutique design studio focusing on traditional Tibetan artisan skills. Exquisite hand-woven blankets and cushions are provided by Altai-Himalaya, a high-end atelier in Kathmandu that specializes in traditional Nepali loom weaving. The exceptional artworks of Dhwoj Gurung, a renowned artist based in Nepal, are displayed in Shinta Mani Mustang’s Living Room and Nilgiri Restaurant.
SUITES - WINDOWS ON THE WILD
Wake up to a daily epic: Your suite looks directly onto the 7,000-meter (22,955-foot), snow-capped peaks of the Nilgiri range through floor-to-ceiling windows. After a day of exploration, relax amid the carved wood furniture and Tibet-inspired art before snuggling under hand-woven blankets and resting up for tomorrow’s adventures.
The 29 suites have floor-to-ceiling windows with staggering views of the Nilgiri range. Impeccably designed by Bill Bensley, their aesthetic draws from local art and imagery with flashes of bold color. Designer blankets, handmade Tibetan rugs, and stylish furnishings create an inviting blend of timeless design and luxurious comfort.
Drawn from Sherpa Hospitality’s years-long experience and knowledge, our five-night (minimum) program offers a unique, well-considered combination of cultural insight, spiritual connection, and scenic adventure in Nepal’s most spectacular landscape. The trip is fully immersive and all-inclusive, and it starts even before you leave the runway. All you have to do is relax and enjoy every moment.
WILDERNESS TREKKING
Embark on a trek in the Jomsom Valley, traversing rugged landscapes, crossing streams, and navigating forests while marveling at the dazzling views of the snow-capped Himalaya. The route will be carefully selected based on conditions for an optimal outdoor experience.
Midway through the trek, pause for a mountaineer-inspired picnic, enjoying high-energy foods, a glass of chilled rosé, and the unique experience of dining in the wilderness. Continue your exploration post-lunch, appreciating the serenity and solitude of untouched areas. The trek concludes back at the starting point.
JHARKOT, JHONG, MUKTINATH, KAGBENI
This tour blends history, culture, adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty for an immersive experience in the Nepalese countryside. Begin after breakfast with a one-hour drive to Jharkot, a tranquil Tibetan village seemingly untouched by time and famous for its historic gompa (monastery).
From Jharkot, a serene hike into the valley passes through age-old orchards to the revered pilgrimage site of Muktinath, which draws both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims from around the world, particularly for the sacred 108 fountains known as Mukti Dhara. According to Hindu belief, bathing in these fountains washes away one’s sins and brings salvation (we recommend bringing your bathing suit to partake in this unique ritual).
From Muktinath you will cross suspension bridges and ascend the opposite side of the valley to ancient Jhong village. Here, you’ll visit a traditional home and enjoy a lunch prepared by the Shinta Mani culinary team at the monastery, against the breathtaking backdrop of 360-degree views of the valleys and mountains.
After the meal, choose between an exhilarating mountain biking adventure down a less-traveled trail or a comfortable jeep ride towards Kagbeni village, the gateway to Upper Mustang. Here, you’ll visit the Kag Chode Thupten Samphel Ling Monastery, an important Buddhist site, to end this exploration of Mustang’s spiritual and adventurous highlights.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Mustang’s contrasting landscapes encompass arid deserts, snowy peaks, colorful valleys, and mountain forests. Discover them all with our guided treks, an opportunity to explore remote villages, visit Buddhist monasteries, and encounter wildlife such as blue sheep and yaks. Expect awe-inspiring views of the Kali Gandaki River, glittering glaciers, and the majestic Himalayas around every corner. We offer options to suit every adventurer, from short, daily hikes leaving from the resort to multi-day excursions leading all the way up to the Tibetan border.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Ride a Mustang horse alongside a local and experience the rhythm and lifestyle of the kingdom that shares its name. These compact yet robust ponies, renowned for their strength and gentle demeanor, have been pivotal to the Himalayan way of life for centuries. Before the modern era, these noble steeds were the lifelines of the region, facilitating travel and trade across the challenging terrain.
The horseback expeditions range from short, leisurely rides to neighboring villages — perfect for beginners — to more adventurous multi-day excursions into the rugged terrain of Upper Mustang.
MARPHA VILLAGE
Nestled at the southern edge of Mustang, Marpha Village is a hidden gem famous for its beautifully painted Buddhist monasteries, traditional stone houses, and apple orchards where you can sample the local brandy and cider.
This authentic encounter with Nepalese rural life begins with a refreshing, two-hour morning trek from Shinta Mani Wild to Dumba Lake and the iconic Khutsab Terenga Monastery. This route offers transfixing views of the Kali Gandaki Valley, the deepest valley in the world. At the monastery, you’ll be treated to an elegant breakfast picnic under the shade of an old apricot tree.
LUBRA, BON BUDDHIST VILLAGE
An extraordinary fusion of nature, culture, and spirituality, Lubra Village is an 800-year-old settlement nestled in the heart of Mustang and one of the last remaining strongholds of the Bon Buddhist tradition, a practice that predates Buddhism. This secluded hamlet, accessible via a picturesque hike along the Panda Khola River gorge, is a testament to the resilience of long-held traditions in the face of time.
From the venerable gompa and intriguing cave monastery to the local cuisine served on the rooftop of an ancient home, Lubra offers a voyage back in time to the roots of Bon Buddhism, set against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas.
YOGA, MOVEMENT & MEDITATION
The wellness experts are available for individual yoga and physical therapy programs to work on specific areas or to learn and deepen your personal practice. You could start the morning with a session of yoga asanas (postures) aligned with breathing practices and guided meditations to relax, strengthen, and energize your body and mind.
The resort’s exclusive experiences also include well-being retreats led by industry professionals and Buddhist monks or nuns from local monasteries.