Upper Mustang - Saribung Peak Climbing via Nar–Phu Valley

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our correspondent who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Once checked in, we will arrange a pre-trip meeting where we will brief in short about the trek, answer any queries you have and meet your trekking guide as well. After the short brief, you can relax and spend rest of the day at your leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel.

This day you will prepare for the trekking and after that you will visit different famous places listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swoyambhunath, Boudhanath and Pashupatinath today. Stay overnight at hotel.

• Swoyambhunath: Also known as the Monkey Temple, it offers panoramic views of Kathmandu.
• Boudhanath: One of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Pashupatinath: A sacred Hindu temple complex on the banks of the Bagmati River.

After breakfast early in the morning, you will start your drive towards Kagbeni, passing through the spectacular Kali Gandaki Gorge, which is the world’s deepest gorge, nestled between the towering Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges.

Today's route will be: Pokara → Tatopani (1190 m) → Ghasa → Lete → Marpha → Jomsom (2700 m) → Kagbeni (2800 m)

Along the way, as you enter Ghasa, the government authorities will check your permit and continuing the drive you will reach a charming village of Lete. Lete is surrounded by stunning mountain views. On one side, you’ll see the majestic peaks of Dhaulagiri and Tukuche, and on the other side, the beautiful Nilgiri and Tilicho peaks.

From Lete, you will reach the most beautiful apple farming village of Mustang, Marpha. Marpha is a charming Thakali village in the Mustang region, famous for its apple orchards, whitewashed stone houses, narrow alleys, and peaceful ambiance. Located on the classic Annapurna and Jomsom trekking routes, it offers a perfect blend of culture, comfort, and Himalayan scenery. You will stop for a while in Marpha and explore the Marpha village, apple farm and Nyingma monastery of Marpha.

Continuing the journey, in another 30 minute you will reach capital of Mustang, Jomsom. From Jomsom you will continue the drive towards Kagbeni. Stay overnight at lodge. 

After breakfast, you will start your drive from Kagbeni toward Geling.

At first, you will drive to Muktinath which takes about 1 hour, you will explore around Muktinath. Muktinath is a religious temple which lies in the Mustang district of Nepal. Muktinath is a sacred temple for Hindu as well as Buddhists. Buddhist people name Muktinath as Chumig Gyatsa (meaning: the hundred springs). While for Hindu people Muktinath means lord of Liberation (mokshya). This it is one of the most important religious places for Hindu and it is believed that taking bath in 108 stone sprouts will give individual salvation from the bad deeds they have done during their lifetime. Also, here lies the statue of Lord Buddha, statue of Guru Padmasava and Buddhist thanka. Also inside, we can see the eternal flame which has been burning for more than 2000 years.

Along the way, you will pass through the traditional village of Tangbe (3040 m), known for its ancient architecture and local culture. Next, you’ll drive to Chhusang (often spelled Chusang), a village situated near towering cliffs and offering impressive views of the Kali Gandaki Gorge.

Crossing the Kali Gandaki River, you will reach Chele village, where you will stop to explore the local monastery and enjoy lunch. Chele offers spectacular views of the gorge and the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect place to relax and soak in the natural beauty.

After lunch, you continue your journey toward Geling, passing through small villages like Samar, Behana, and Syangbochen (around 3,800 m). At Syangbochen, you will visit the monastery known for its peaceful atmosphere and cultural significance.

Finally, you arrive at Geling, where you will visit the Geling Monastery in the evening. Overnight stay at a lodge.

After breakfast, you will drive from Geling towards Lo Manthang, the walled capital of Upper Mustang. Along the way, you will stop to visit the monastery in Ghemi, a traditional Tibetan Buddhist village known for its long mani wall.
Today's route will be: Geling → Ghemi (3520 m) → Dhakmar (3570 m) → Lo-Ghyakar Gompa (3950 m) → Charang (3560 m) → Lo Manthang (3810 m)

Next, you will continue to Dhakmar monastery. You can reach Dhakmar by jeep; it is an ancient and important monastery for Tibetan Buddhists. The monastery’s proper name is Lo-Ghyakar Gompa, located at 3,950 meters altitude. 

Lo-Ghyakar Gompa, also known as Ghar Gompa, is one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Nepal, believed to be 1300 years old dating back to the 8th century 8th century by the legendary tantric master Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava). Located in a remote and mystical setting above Dhakmar, it predates even Tibet’s famous Samye Monastery. This is the only Nyingmapa sect monastery in Upper Mustang, and it was patronized by the former King Jigme Palbar Bista.

Continuing the drive towards Charang village, explore its monastery, and enjoy lunch there. Charang (also spelled Tsarang or Chharang) is a historically significant village in Upper Mustang, nestled between the red canyon walls and vast barren hills. It was once the capital of the Mustang Kingdom before Lo Manthang and remains rich in cultural and religious heritage. 

Finally, you will arrive at Lo Manthang, surrounded by treeless, barren landscapes and impressive mountain views. In the evening, you will have the opportunity to explore the Buddhist art school, the King’s Palace, and stroll through the quaint streets of Lo Manthang village. You will stay overnight at a lodge in Lo Manthang.

Today is a full day to explore the wonders of Lo Manthang. Without the pressure of trekking, you can wander slowly through the ancient alleys and open yourself to the deep spiritual and historical beauty of the region.

You can visit:

1. Jampa Gompa – The oldest monastery, famous for its huge Buddha statue and intricate mandala paintings.
2. Thubchen Gompa – A large red monastic assembly hall with beautifully restored 15th-century frescoes.
3. Chhoede Gompa – The main active monastery, home to many monks and daily rituals.
4. Royal Palace – A five-story building where Mustang’s last king lived. You can sometimes meet members of the royal family if they're present.
5. Chhoser Caves – A short trip from Lo Manthang (optional by horseback or jeep) to visit the remarkable Jhong Cave, a multi-story complex of rooms carved directly into a cliff — used as meditation cells, living spaces, and storage centuries ago.

Here each monastery holds deep history, art, and devotion that shaped Mustang’s identity. Walking through the narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, and courtyards offers a true sense of stepping back in time.

Walking the perimeter of the old city wall and soaking in the views of the Tibetan plateau adds even more to the experience. It's a perfect day to slow down and absorb the soul of Mustang.

After exploring the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, today marks the beginning of your trekking journey into the remote Damodar Himal region. Today’s walk takes around 6–7 hours of walking.

Leaving behind the cultural wonders of Mustang, the trail gradually ascends through high-altitude desert terrain, passing scattered herder settlements and barren ridges with panoramic views of the Nilgiri and Mustang peaks.

As you trek deeper into this less-travelled route, you’ll notice a shift in the landscape—more rugged, isolated, and spiritually serene. Sparse vegetation, strong winds, and dramatic rock formations highlight the harsh beauty of this region.

Ghargaun is a basic and quiet stopover point, used mainly by traders, pilgrims, and a few trekking groups venturing toward Damodar Kunda. Overnight in a tented camp at Ghargaun.

Today is a crucial rest and acclimatization day in Ghargaun, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude before heading toward Damodar Kunda and Saribung Base Camp. At 4,200 meters, the air holds significantly less oxygen, and a day of rest helps reduce the risk of Altitude Sickness (AMS).

While it's a rest day, light acclimatization walks are recommended. You can explore the ridgelines around Ghargaun to gain a bit of elevation and then descend—helping your body adapt. These short hikes offer stunning views of the Damodar Himal and the vast, barren landscapes of Upper Mustang. Overnight in a tented camp.

Today’s trek leads you deeper into the isolated Damodar region, gradually ascending from Ghargaun to Ghuma Thanti. Today’s walk will be around 6 – 7 hours of walking.

This section of the trail is remote, high, and barren, with an otherworldly beauty defined by wind-sculpted cliffs, ancient riverbeds, and wide-open Himalayan skies.

Today’s walk will be along the rugged and rocky trail, with occasional steep sections. There are no settlements or tea houses along the way—only occasional herders' shelters or cairns marking the route.

Ghuma Thanti is a traditional rest place for pilgrims heading toward Damodar Kunda, and it is believed to hold spiritual significance. The name “Thanti” refers to a shelter or resting place. You’ll camp in a basic but scenic location surrounded by the raw grandeur of the Damodar Himal. Overnight in tented camp at Ghuma Thanti.

Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the trek as you cross the mighty Damodar Kunda Pass (5490 m)—the highest point of the trek Damodar Kunda trek, before reaching the Saribung summit. Today’s trek will take around 7– 8 hours of trekking, including rest and acclimatization stops.

The journey begins in the early morning by ascending gradually through a cold and barren alpine landscape marked by loose rocks, snow patches (depending on the season), and stunning views of the Damodar Himal and distant Tibetan plateau.

The climb to the pass is strenuous due to the altitude, thin air, and exposure to strong winds. However, reaching the Damodar Kunda Pass offers a sense of accomplishment and panoramic vistas of the surrounding Himalayan ranges, including Annapurna, Mustang, and even parts of Tibet.

From the pass, the trail descends to the sacred Damodar Kunda (4,890 m)—a group of pristine high-altitude lakes revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. According to legend, bathing in these holy waters is believed to wash away sins and grant spiritual merit. The lakes are nestled in a stark, beautiful basin surrounded by rugged peaks, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere. Overnight in tented camp near Damodar Kunda.

Today’s trek from the sacred Damodar Kunda to Saribung Base Camp is short in distance but demanding due to the high altitude and rough, glacial terrain. The trail ascends gradually over moraines and rocky paths with increasing exposure to cold and wind as you approach the base of Saribung Peak.

This day is crucial for acclimatization and preparation before heading to high camp. You’ll be trekking in complete alpine wilderness, with majestic views of the Damodar Himal, Saribung Peak, and surrounding glaciated valleys. Overnight in tented camp at Base Camp.

Today is a steep and challenging ascent from Saribung Base Camp (5,200 m) to High Camp (6042 m). Although the distance is relatively short, the dramatic elevation gains and high-altitude conditions make this one of the most demanding days of the expedition.

The trail follows a rugged glacial path, often covered in ice, scree, and loose rocks. Depending on conditions, you may need to use crampons, harnesses, and ropes, especially on icy or exposed sections. The air is thin, and every step requires effort, so a slow, steady pace is critical for safety and acclimatization.

High Camp is located just below the summit ridge and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Damodar Himal, Mustang, and the Tibetan plateau. Overnight at tented camp.

Today is the summit day—the most challenging and rewarding part of the entire Saribung expedition.

You’ll start pre-dawn (around 2–3 AM) to climb Saribung Peak (6328 m). You will have to walk through glaciers, icy ridges, and crevassed terrain, using climbing gear such as crampons, harness, ropes, ice axe, and helmet.

While technically moderate, the climb demands physical endurance and mental focus due to extreme altitude, thin air, and cold temperatures. The final section to the summit ridge may be steep, depending on snow conditions.

Reaching the Saribung summit rewards you with panoramic 360-degree views of the Damodar Himal, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, and the Tibetan Plateau to the north—a true high-Himalayan wilderness.

After soaking in the views and taking a few summit photos, you'll descend all the way down to a lower base camp (approx. 4,800 m) on the Nar–Phu side. The descent is long and tiring, so careful footing is essential. Overnight at Base Camp in tented camp.

This day is set aside as a buffer day in case of unexpected delays, such as:

• Bad weather on summit day (e.g., high winds, snowfall, or poor visibility)
• Slow acclimatization or altitude-related symptoms
• Trail or glacier conditions that require additional rest or preparation time

If everything goes as planned and you summit on Day 13, this day can be used for rest, short exploration around Base Camp, or to move ahead in the itinerary.

Having this contingency day greatly increases the success and safety of the Saribung Peak climb, providing flexibility for unforeseen circumstances in the high Himalayas. Overnight in tented camp.

Today prepare to descend from the remote Saribung Base Camp (4800 m) into the isolated valleys of the Nar–Phu region, heading toward Yak Kharka (4200 m). The trail is rugged and crosses glacial moraines, loose scree, and narrow paths with dramatic views of the Damodar Himal.

Yak Kharka is a seasonal grazing area surrounded by alpine meadows and high cliffs—used by local herders from Nar and Phu villages. It's a peaceful and scenic stopover before continuing toward Pho Gaun. Overnight in tented camp at Yak Kharka.

On this day, you trek from Yak Kharka down to the traditional Tibetan-style village of Pho Gaun, nestled at around 4080 meters. The trail gently descends through rugged terrain, alpine meadows, and patches of rhododendron and juniper shrubs, offering serene mountain views and glimpses of local herding life.

Pho Gaun is a culturally rich and remote village known for its distinctive stone houses, mani walls, and traditional Buddhist monasteries. Spending time here offers a rare opportunity to experience authentic Himalayan culture away from the more frequented trails.

Overnight stay at lodge in Pho Gaun.

Today’s trek takes you from the serene high-altitude village of Pho Gaun down to Meta, a picturesque settlement nestled at 3,660 meters. The trail gradually descends through a mix of alpine forests, rhododendron groves, and terraced farmland, marking a transition from the rugged high Himalayas to more hospitable valley landscapes.

Along the way, you’ll pass small traditional villages and get a closer glimpse of rural Himalayan life, including terraced fields, prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze, and simple stone homes. Overnight in a guesthouse or tented camp at Meta.

Today’s trek takes you further down from the alpine village of Meta to the lower altitude settlement of Timang, nestled at 2750 meters. The trail descends through lush forests of pine and rhododendron, passing terraced fields, traditional villages, and small streams.

This section offers a noticeable change in climate and scenery as you transition from high mountain terrain to greener, more temperate landscapes. The path is a mix of well-trodden dirt trails and stone steps, sometimes steep, so careful footing is advised.

Timang is a charming village with a rich cultural backdrop and friendly local communities, providing a comfortable resting point before heading further down to Besisahar. Overnight at lodge.

Today you leave the trekking trails behind and after having breakfast prepare for a scenic drive from Timang (2,750 m) down to Besisahar (760 m), the gateway town to the Annapurna region. The drive descends through winding mountain roads alongside the Marsyangdi River, passing traditional villages, terraced farms, and lush subtropical forests.

This road trip offers a relaxing way to unwind after days of trekking, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Nepal’s diverse landscapes and vibrant rural life from the vehicle window. Stay overnight at hotel / ldoge.

Today you’ll embark on the scenic drive from Besisahar back to Kathmandu, crossing diverse landscapes from the lush foothills to the bustling Kathmandu Valley. The route follows the Prithvi Highway, one of Nepal’s main highways, passing through picturesque towns like Mugling and Trishuli.

Expect winding roads alongside rivers, terraced fields, and occasional mountain views. The journey offers a chance to relax and reflect on your trek while enjoying glimpses of Nepal’s everyday life outside the trekking regions. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Free day in kathmandu for sightseeing / massage / shopping, etc.

Enjoy your last day in Kathmandu before departure. At your scheduled departure time, our correspondent will pick you up from the hotel, transfer you to the airport, and bid you farewell with warm hearts.