Kagbeni
In Nepali: कागबेनी
Kagbeni sits where the Jhong Khola meets the Kali Gandaki, a maze of mud-brick houses, tunnels and alleys around the ruins of a castle and the 15th-century Kag Chode Thupten Samphel Ling monastery. Clay guardian figures protect the village gates.
Hindu pilgrims perform shraddha rites for their ancestors at the confluence and search the riverbed for shaligram fossils. North of the village a sign marks the limit beyond which only Upper Mustang permit holders may go.
What to see and do
Explore the maze of alleys and tunnels, visit the red Kag Chode monastery with its old statues and murals, and see the clay 'Khenpa' protector figures at the village's entrance. Walk down to the confluence where pilgrims perform rites and search for shaligram stones.
Good to know
Beyond Kagbeni, entering Upper Mustang requires a restricted-area permit. The village is a good overnight stop between Jomsom and Muktinath, with atmospheric guesthouses.
Quick answers
- Where is Kagbeni?
- Kagbeni is in Mustang district, Gandaki Province, in the Himal belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Kagbeni?
- About 2,810 m (9,220 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Kagbeni?
- For a 3-day trip from Pokhara, about NPR 10,000 (≈ US$74) per person on a budget, or NPR 23,000 (≈ US$170) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 7,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Kagbeni?
- Plan 1 night there; with travel from Pokhara and back, about 3 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Kagbeni?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 3,000 / US$22 to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- When is the best time to visit Kagbeni?
- March–November
- How do I get to Kagbeni?
- About 1 hour by jeep from Jomsom. It is about 72 km (straight line) from Pokhara.
- What is Kagbeni called in Nepali?
- कागबेनी
Photo gallery
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