Discovery of the Month
Reaching Shinta Mani Mustang requires heading seriously high – this luxury lodge sits at 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) in Nepal’s Himalayan Mustang district, making it a true bucket-list address. Guests are met in Jomsom, accessible by plane, and from there it’s all about one thing: absolutely stunning views.
Discovery of the Month
Reaching Shinta Mani Mustang requires heading seriously high – this luxury lodge sits at 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) in Nepal’s Himalayan Mustang district, making it a true bucket-list address. Guests are met in Jomsom, accessible by plane, and from there it’s all about one thing: absolutely stunning views.
The Rooms
Guests hardly need to leave their room to take in the dramatic peaks surrounding the lodge. Each accommodation is equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows that perfectly frame the mighty Nilgiri range. In total, 29 units – all designed and styled by Bill Bensley – blend past and present in a thoughtful way: designer throws meet hand-knotted Tibetan rugs, while wood and stone elements bring the warm, lived-in feel of traditional Tibetan homes. Generous windows fill the interiors with natural light, making the spaces feel open, calm, and inviting. And the impression is true to scale: entry-level rooms offer 36 square meters (386 sq. ft.), while the largest reaches 48 (516 sq. ft.). Each unit includes not only a bed but also a cozy sitting area, adding another layer of comfort during the stay. These thoughtful touches make every room feel like a true retreat.
The Culinary
Dining here feels just as elevated as the surroundings. Shinta Mani Mustang’s signature restaurant, Nilgiri – named after the mountain range right across from the lodge – welcomes up to 60 guests and offers a new menu concept every evening. The cuisine draws inspiration from recipes once used along ancient trade routes, paired with traditional ingredients sourced or harvested as locally as possible. A bonus: when the weather cooperates, guests can enjoy the full panorama-meets-gourmet experience out on the patio, warmed by large fire pits after dark. And if the mountain air still feels a bit brisk, the Aara Bar is the perfect retreat for a cozy nightcap. Expect cocktails, whisky, wine, and of course the local spirit Aara – the bar’s namesake.
The Experiences
A stay at Shinta Mani Mustang always comes with a touch of adventure. Most guests arrive for wilderness trekking in the Himalayas, guided by seasoned experts who reveal the region’s natural gems– and even surprise hikers with a picnic at Chhyama Lake (pictured) or a chilled glass of rosé along the way. Culture-rich stops like Marpha Village, known for its charming cobblestone lanes and numerous Buddhist monasteries, offer postcard-perfect moments. About an hour from the lodge sits Jharkot, another town steeped in tradition. Luxury travelers can tour a traditional Nepali home there and enjoy a freshly prepared Shinta-team lunch served right at the monastery. And for anyone with tired legs or sore feet, the Sorig Wellness and Spa is a welcome finale, supported by the expertise of an Amchi, a traditional Tibetan doctor.
