Mustang is an ancient kingdom.  Its’ boarder closed to outsiders until the 1990’s, it has often been referred to as “the forbidden kingdom”.   While politically part of Nepal (seen as a necessity during the Chinese invasion of Tibet), it has a definite autonomy.  It has its own king and queen, who reside in the capital city of Lomontang.  The inhabitants are referred to as Lobos.  It is the only walled city in Nepal and at night its gates are closed.  The present palace, a four story stone and mud structure dates from the 1400’s.  The climate in Mustang is brutal in the winter, but pleasant in the summer with a short growing season.  Very little rain falls in this region as it is just below the Tibetan Plateau.  Subsequently few trees grow.  Here, a man’s wealth is determined by the amount of firewood he has stacked on his roof.  The people farm a few vegetables, wheat, buckwheat, mullet and barley.  Some raise yak, sheep and goats for their fur and milk, which they sell and trade.  As there are no roads, save…….., travel is by foot, pony, or yak.  From Tomison it is a five day difficult walk, through some of the most pristine and spectacular country left on this planet Earth.  During the winter months, most leave Mustang (due to the brutal winters), and go to Kathmandu or India to trade.  The elderly are left to do the best they can and to take care of the animal left behind.  Often their only meal is an ounce of Tibetan salt tea with a handful of Sampas (barley flower).

Medical care is provided by the Amchi (herballest).  Infant mortality is high and many women die in childbirth.  Tuberculosis is a problem, as well as dental care.  As the people travel to India and Kathmandu to trade, HIV is on the horizon.