The Forgotten Temples of Tibet: Restoring Mustang's Lost Heritage

A lost kingdom, a fading heritage, and the mission to restore it.

High in the Himalayas, at an altitude of 4,000 meters, lies the ancient kingdom of Mustang, surrounded by towering, impassable mountains. Over the centuries, these sacred sites fell into decay, putting Mustang’s rich cultural heritage at risk. The recent restoration of its monasteries has sparked a remarkable revival. Italian conservator Luigi Fieni and his friend Tsewang Bista, nephew of Mustang’s last king, embark on a four-week journey through the former kingdom. Their mission is to preserve Mustang’s cultural heritage for future generations. Meanwhile, China seeks to prevent Mustang from becoming a refuge for Tibetan exiles.