TRAVERSE 159
As recently as 1992 , the Mustang region was a closed kingdom , restricted access meant that the traditions and cultures of this part of the world are preserved and still observed . Cultural aspects relate to that of Tibet and many of the local people still refer to the area as the Kingdom of Lo .
Fascinated by the surrounds we continued north on the F42 , said to be a main road , in reality nothing more than a dirt track . Some patches were sublime , most were challenging , verging on dangerous to the uninitiated , adding to the adventure of exploring this hidden kingdom .
Climbing higher the temperatures dropped dramatically , snow was now evident much closer , we weren ’ t quite amongst it however still puddles of water were topped with a thin layer of ice . As we ’ d reached the Lo Ghami guesthouse we knew that the day was done , it was becoming far too cold to ride , a warm room beckoned and yet never came . The hospitality of the Lo Ghami residents was warm and welcoming , something that was becoming familiar in Nepal , unfortunately the guesthouse had no heating and no warm water . We couldn ’ t complain considering where we were .
A warm meal and a few beers were the most that any of us could contemplate , the cold , the altitude , and the days ride was enough for most to turn in early .
Daybreak revealed an amazing sight . The warming rays of the sun brought the discovery that the nearby mountains were adorned with ‘ holes ’. Many more would be seen throughout the day as we continued toward the Chinese border , a strange vision that made no sense and with that , were almost forgotten . We had other concerns , to get to Lo Manthang before the sun dropped too low bringing a biting chill .
Our last push saw us climb a pass
TRAVERSE 159