The historic and culturally rich settlement of Lomanthang, a significant religious and tourist destination in Mustang, is undergoing major road infrastructure upgrades. The Infrastructure Development Office of Mustang, funded by the Gandaki Provincial Government, has started the upgrade work on the circular road surrounding Lomanthang Bazaar. The project includes cementing the road that begins at the entrance gate and is currently bordered by earthen walls.
On Shrawan 29, a contract worth NPR 32.3 million was signed, and the initial phase of road construction commenced, according to Ghanshyam Roka, the Information Officer at the Infrastructure Development Office. The project is expected to be completed by mid-February 2026 (Magh 28, 2082 BS). As per the contract, drainage systems and a two-kilometer-long, seven-meter-wide RCC road will be constructed. The provincial government has allocated NPR 9.6 million for the current fiscal year to support the project.
Lomanthang Ward Chairperson Dhudhuke Bista explained that the cementing work is aimed at reducing the dust and mud issues of the existing unpaved roads, which have been affecting both locals and tourists while ensuring the cultural authenticity of the area is preserved. Previously, the Urban Development and Building Construction Project in Baglung, along with Lomanthang Rural Municipality, had laid stone pavements on the town’s roads, pathways, and alleys.
Within the walled settlement of Lomanthang lies the ancient royal palace, monasteries, and traditional homes, while new settlements have emerged outside the walls. A previous project by the Urban Development and Building Construction initiative laid slate stone pavements across 4,044 square meters of pathways within the walled area, for NPR 12.7 million. Similarly, in the fiscal year 2080/81, an additional NPR 6.5 million was allocated by the rural municipality to extend the stone pavement project.
Tashi Norbu Gurung, Chairperson of Lomanthang Rural Municipality, highlighted the strategic importance of the area due to its proximity to the Tibetan border. He emphasized the significance of these development efforts, aimed at enhancing the region’s appeal to tourists and preserving its cultural heritage.
In addition to the road improvements, the project includes the installation of 150 streetlights around the town to ensure adequate illumination at night. The electrical wires in the area have been placed underground to maintain the aesthetic of the village. The walled settlement, surrounded by 30-foot-high fortifications, contains the former palace of the Mustang King and approximately 200 traditional houses. Tourists are drawn to Lomanthang to experience its unique culture, traditions, and the preserved lifestyle of its inhabitants.
