Trekking · Lubra
Down from Muktinath by the Lubra trail
A full-day walk from Ranipauwa over the ridge south of Muktinath and down the Panda Khola to Lubra and Jomsom, away from the jeep road. Wide views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri, a high grassy ridge and a Bon village at the end of the descent.
Most people come down from Muktinath by jeep or along the road through Jharkot and Kagbeni. The Lubra trail takes another line. From Ranipauwa we climb south onto the high, open ridge between the Muktinath valley and the Panda Khola, on grazing paths used by herders. The climb is steady and exposed to the sun, and you reach the high point after about 2–3 hours, depending on pace and acclimatisation.
From the ridge the view is wide: Dhaulagiri and Tukuche Peak to the west, Nilgiri to the south, and the Kali Gandaki valley far below. Blue sheep often graze these slopes. The descent into the Panda Khola valley is long and steep in places, on loose ground, so walking poles help. Gradually the valley narrows, and Lubra's green fields and walnut trees appear below. Take your time on this section.
We stop in Lubra for tea and a visit to the Bon monastery, then follow the riverbed down to the Kali Gandaki and on to Jomsom, arriving in the late afternoon. It is a long day, around 6–7 hours of walking, and only for fit walkers who have already slept at Muktinath. The trail is not signposted, and the weather on the ridge can change fast, so a guide is essential.
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Questions
Is the Muktinath–Lubra trail difficult?
It is moderately hard: a climb onto a high ridge followed by a long, steep descent on loose ground, about 6–7 hours in total. There are no lodges or shops between Ranipauwa and Lubra. It suits fit walkers who are already acclimatised after a night at Muktinath. Walking poles and good boots help a lot on the descent.
Do I need a guide for the Lubra trail?
Yes. The route is not signposted, crosses open grazing land where paths divide, and the weather on the ridge can change quickly. Since April 2023, foreign trekkers in ACAP must also have a licensed guide; check current status before you travel. Pick a guide who has walked this route recently.
When is the best time for the Lubra trail?
April to June and September to November are best, with dry ground and clear views. In winter, snow and ice can make the ridge dangerous, and in July and August flash floods are possible in the Panda Khola. Start early to cross the ridge before the afternoon wind and cloud build.
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