Trip Details

  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Trip Style: Trekking and Climbing
  • Transport: Public Vehicle
  • Food: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
  • Group Size: 16
  • Max Elevation: Saribung Peak (6328m)

Highlights

  • Climbing the third-highest trekking peak in Nepal, Saribung Peak (6328m).
  • Gorgeous view of the sunrise and sunset overlooking the snow-capped mountains of the region
  • Exploration of Upper Mustang, Nar Phu valley, and The Hidden Valley.
  • Trekking in the geographically diverse landscapes that ranges from lush alpine forests to barren, arid desert-like landscapes
  • Visit old monasteries and 2500 old caves of the region
  • Tasting the delicious local cuisine
  • Exploring the Tibetan influenced cultural, tradition and lifestyle of Gurung, Magar, and Sherpa ethnic groups
  • Incredible hospitality of the Nepalese people.
  • Scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom
     

Description

Saribung Peak (6328m) lies in the remote Mustang region in the midwest of Nepal. This spectacular trekking peak has only been available for climbing recently. The Saribung Peak climbing package also includes challenging trek on steep passes and harsh terrains. 

Saribung Peak expedition takes you through the dry landscapes of Upper Mustang, Jomsom, Nar Phu valley, and the Hidden Valley. The off the beaten trails pass through cliff sides and ancient settlements that have remained intact for centuries. You will also pass through ice creases in the Nar-Phu valley and the Damodar Kunda region.

Trekkers can explore the diverse culture of the region as well. The Tibetan influenced the culture of the villages, and the religious monasteries will spellbind you. You can also capture the beauty of the place in your cameras. The scenic landscapes, geographical variations, and unique cultural settlements will amaze you. 
 
One exciting aspect of Saribung Peak climbing is that it is possible both clockwise and anti-clockwise. The clockwise trek starts from Jomsom in the Upper Mustang region, and an anti-clockwise trek starts from Phu and then ascends to the Saribung pass. You can observe the majestic snow-capped mountains, including Annapurna II, Nilgiri Himal, Himlung Himal, Lamjung Himal, Mt. Manaslu, and others. 

Only a few climbers have managed to summit the Saribung Peak. Hence, the Saribung Peak climbing expedition is an excellent opportunity for those who want to explore the off the beaten region in Nepal and gain climbing experience. So are you up for an adventure in the virgin landscapes of the Mustang region in Nepal? 

We are offering this exciting Saribung Peak climbing package at a reasonable cost. Read further to learn about the detailed itinerary of this expedition and book your trip now! 

21 Days Saribung Peak Expedition Itinerary

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Drive duration: 6-7 hours

Travel distance: 200km

After breakfast, we take a scenic short drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which takes around five to six hours on a scenic Prithvi Highway. We pass through the winding hilly roads along the banks of the pristine Trishuli river.

We arrive at the beautiful lake city of Pokhara. Pokhara is an essential tourist destination with many hotels, bars, restaurants, pubs, and others. We spend the night at a hotel in Pokhara.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Altitude: 820m

Flight duration: 30 minutes

Trek duration: 3-4 hours

After an early breakfast, we take the first-morning flight to Jomsom from Pokhara. Jomsom is a scenic town in the Mustang region with many tea houses and an airstrip. Our trek officially starts from Jomsom as we pass along the broad trail to arrive at the beautiful village of Kagbeni.

The flat-roofed houses and the narrow flagstone paved paths will enchant you. We pass through the Annapurna Conservation Area Project's (ACAP) office, where we complete all the formalities by showing our permits and continue our trekking adventure in the Mustang region. We stay overnight at a lodge in Kagbeni.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 2800m

Trek duration: 5-6 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek from Kagbeni as we pass through the Kali Gandaki valley and trek along the east bank of the pristine Kali Gandaki river. The trail passes through some steep slopes that constitute of loose rocks.

We resume our trek through Tangbe village. There we can find some impressive natural rock formations and ancient cave dwellings. The valley ends at the Chuksang village, where we can discover meditation cliffs and narrow canyons.

We can observe the incredible views of Nilgiri and Tilicho Himal from the viewpoint. The trail continues alongside the right bank of the pristine Kali Gandaki river before arriving at Chele. We stay overnight at a guesthouse in Chele.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3030m

Trek duration: 6-7 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek from Chele on a small grassy basin. We climb up the Dajori La Pass (3735 meters) and then descend towards the beautiful village of Samar. The trail then descends downwards from Samar to a slowly eroded watercourse and climb steeply towards Bhena La Pass (3838 m).

We descend further for a bit before climbing Yamada La Pass (3860 m). The Upper Mustang valley looks incredibly beautiful from the pass. A short descend and an uphill trek later, we arrive at a majestic stupa of Chhungar. We then pass through the cairn and then descend towards the flat-bottomed valley and arrive at Gelling.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3440m

Trek duration: 6-7 hours

After an early breakfast, we leave the village of Ghilling and trek to Tsarang by passing through the steep hillside towards Nyi La Pass (4025 m). Along the way, we observe the incredible Annapurna Himalayan ranges.

We then descend towards Ghami, passing through the rough and slippery trail and then cross a suspension bridge above the pristine Ghami Khola. The trail climbs through the longest mani wall in Mustang and arriving at the Tsarang La Pass (3870 m). After a trek of a few hours, we arrive at the village of Tsarang where we stay overnight.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3490m

Trek duration: 5-7 hours

After breakfast, we continue our trek descending towards the suspension bridge over Tsarang Khola. After ascending the Lo La pass (3950 m), we observe the beautiful views of Mustang and Lo-Manthang.

We then cross and descend the path that leads us to the ancient walled city of Lo-Manthang in Mustang. Lo-Manthang is a beautiful village where small walls protect the crops from the harsh winds of the region. We stay overnight at a teahouse in Lo-Manthang.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3740m

Acclimatization is an integral part of any trekking adventure. We start our acclimatization in Lo-Manthang for the day. There is an opportunity to hike at various points in this acclimatization process.

We can take up a 2-3 hours hike towards Namgyal Monastery. You can also explore the three significant gompas around Lo Manthang. The recently renovated monasteries of Jhampa, Thupchen, and Chhoeda are the highlight of the hike.

Furthermore, you can also explore the unique culture, lifestyle, and traditions of the Forbidden Mustang Kingdom. We will return to our teahouses in the evening and stay overnight.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3740m

Trek duration: 6-7 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek from Lo-Manthang as we follow a gradual trail that ascends towards the village of Dhi. From Dhi, we descend and cross a small stream and then do a steep uphill climb to Yara.

The 2500 old magical caves in the high stone walls along the trail will enchant you. We explore the region further and stay overnight at a teahouse in Yara.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3900m

Trek duration: 3-4 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek along the easy trail. The trail ascends gradually towards the Luri Gompa and the other two monasteries. We visit the Luri Cave as well, which lies below the monastery.

The 15th century Luri Cave Monastery is an ancient and famous cave monastery in the Mustang region. There are many vital arts, artifacts, images, and statues of Protectors and deities in the monastery. We will explore the cave monastery and stay overnight at a local teahouse.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 4005m

Trek duration: 5-6 hours

After breakfast, we start trekking on a descending trail that passes through the gorge and leads us to the Ghuma Thanthi. The up and down trail passes through pasture grounds and hilltops.

We can observe the majestic views of Mt. Dhaulagiri from the viewpoint. The trail then ascends towards a pass at 4920 meters and then descends to Ghuma Thanthi. Ghuma Tanthi is a shelter for Buddhist pilgrims making their pilgrimage to the Damodar Kunda Lakes. We stay overnight in a tent in Ghuma Thanthi.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 4600m

Trek duration: 7-8 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek from Ghuma Thanthi as we climb up a pass at 5320 meters. We can observe the magnificent views of Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges from the pass.

The trail then leads us to Parche Khola, and we climb further to a pass at 5480 meters. We continue our path overlooking the Damodar Himal and observe a Hindu shrine and an ancient Buddhist Chorten. After trekking for a few hours, we arrive at Namta Khola, where we stay overnight.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 4890m

Trek duration: 6-7 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek to Saribung Base Camp from Namta Khola. We gradually ascend towards the high altitude region passing through alpine vegetation and Tibetan Plateau like landscapes before we arrive at Saribung Base Camp.

Our sherpa guides will help us to set up our tents. We also need to check our health conditions and necessary climbing equipment for the climbing expedition. After completing our preparation, we stay overnight at a tent in the base camp.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Altitude: 4950m

Trek duration: 6-7 hours

We acclimatize at the base camp as it is essential for staying fit and tackling the problem of altitude sickness. This eventually helps you in the successful summit of the Saribung Peak.

For acclimatization we explore around the surrounding hills around the base camp. It is important to acclimatize during the expedition to successfully climb the Saribung Peak. We stay overnight at our tent in the base camp.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Altitude: 4950m

Trek duration: 5-6 hours

We leave the base camp gradually and follow the uphill trail to arrive at Saribung Base Camp I. The trails are icy and covered in snow. You might need to use crampons at some slippery sections. It can be a tiring trek, and thus resting and hydrating regularly is essential.

The incredible views of the Khumjunggar Himal and Damodar Himal will enchant you. We will then find a good camping site at Camp I and set up our camps with the help of our Sherpa crew. We continue with our preparations for Saribung Peak climbing and stay overnight at the tent.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Altitude: 5730m

Trek duration: 8-9 hours

After a trek of almost 14 days, we start our main goal of Saribung Peak climbing. We get equipped with proper climbing gear and equipment. After complete acclimatization and planning, we start our climb of the spectacular peak.

One important thing to consider is that we should start early as the strong afternoon winds make it difficult for the summit climb after midday. Experienced veteran climbing experts will guide and help you during the climb to the summit of Saribung Peak.

After arriving at the mountain, we can observe the incredible views of the high Himalayan peaks, including Himlung, Bhrikuti, Gyajikang, and others. We spend quality time at the top and take incredible pictures before descending back to the base camp. We stay overnight at a tent in the base camp.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Altitude: 5730m

Trek duration: 8-9 hours

After the successful summit of the Saribung Peak, we descend towards the Saribung Pass (6020 meters). The trail descends rapidly towards a small stream. We follow the path and arrive at Nagoru after the trek of some hours. We stay overnight at a tent in Nagoru.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Altitude: 6020m

Trek duration: 5-6 hours

We continue our trek to Phu Gaon from Nagoru following the trail that passes through the Lama, Gurung, and Ghale village settlements. The incredible views of the mountain peaks and high valleys will spellbind you.

We then enter different valleys and explore the cultural and natural diversity as we trail towards the settlement of Phu village. Phu is an ancient village which is more than 800 years old.

We explore the Phu village in the evening and take incredible pictures of the place. There we can find the famous Tashi Lhakhang Monastery built by Karmapa Rinpoche. We stay overnight at a tent in Phu Gaon.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Altitude: 4080m

Trek duration: 5-6 hours

After breakfast, we start trekking from Phu village to Meta as the trail crosses a suspension bridge, deserted buildings, and chorten. The trail then descends towards Kyang.

We pass an eroded section of moraine and the pristine Mruju Khola formed from the Lyapche Glacier. The incredible views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal along the trail to Meta will spellbind you. We stay overnight at a Teahouse or Lodge in Meta.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3560m

Trek duration: 6-7 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek to Koto from Meta. The trail then descends beneath the valley towards the stone huts of Singenge and then pass through dense forests.

We will then cross a suspension bridge over Seti Khola, and then we climb towards the Koto village. There we can observe the traditional stone gate and a checkpoint where we complete all our formalities and our registration. We stay overnight at a Teahouse or Lodge in Koto.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 2600m

Trek duration: 5-6 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek from Koto to Dharapani. The trail then climbs steeply towards the village of Thanchok. We then descend further before climbing uphill to arrive at Timing from where we can observe the magnificent views of the Lamjung Himal.

The trail then descends through the thick pine and fir forest via Bagarchhap. We continue our trekking adventure until we arrive at Dharapani village. We stay overnight at a lodge in Dharapani.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Altitude: 1860m

After breakfast, we start our drive to Dharapani back to Kathmandu via Besi Shahar. The scenic drive takes us to the winding hilly roads as we observe the terraced farmlands and dense forest.

We also observe the majestic views of Annapurna, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal ranges. The unique ships and settlements along the highway will enchant you. We arrive at Kathmandu after a drive of 5-6 hours and stay overnight at a hotel.

  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
  • Altitude: 1320m

What to Expect

Cost Includes

  • Airport pickups and drops 
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trekking
  • Tented accommodation during the climbing 
  • Hotel Accommodation in Pokhara on Bed and Breakfast Basis 
  • 3 meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) 
  • All Ground Transportation on Public Vehicle 
  • English Speaking Trekking Guide (leader) and Climbing guide (leader) with Insurance, Transportation, Food, and Accommodation
  • Down jacket (to be returned after trip completion)
  • Duffel bag, T-shirt, and Trekking Map
  • Upper Mustang Special Trekking permits, Nar Phu Valley Permit, and Saribung Peak Climbing Permit
  • Use of sleeping bag & Duffel bag (if you don’t have your own, To be return after trip completed)
  • Good quality tents and kitchen utensils for camping
  • Group mountaineering (climbing) equipment
  • Daily seasonal fresh fruits after dinner 
  • A first aid kit carried by the guide (Oximeter to measure your oxygen and pulse in high altitude) 
  • All government and local taxes

Cost Excludes

  • International Flight Ticket and Nepalese Visa Fee
  • Hotel & Meals in Kathmandu
  • Extra Baggage Charges
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the trek (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Personal expenses (WiFi, Phone calls, Laundry, Bar bills, Battery Recharge, Water, Shower, and Tea / Coffee)
  • Other costs not mentioned in 'Cost Includes' section 
  • Travel and Rescue Insurance
  • Tips for Guides, Porters, and Drivers

Useful Information

About Route

Our journey in the Himalayas starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. We pass through the winding hilly highway overlooking the activities of the local people along the way. The view of the roadside hotels and settlements will amaze you. 

We will take a scenic mountain flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. Our trek journey starts from Jomsom as we head towards the North in Kagbeni. The beautiful trail passes through the incredibly diverse landscapes and several ancient gompas and villages as we head towards Lo Manthang. 

We explore around Lo Manthang for a day and then continue our trek to Yara and Ghuma Thanthi. The trail then leads us to the Saribung Base Camp. We then climb the Saribung Peak that is completely covered in ice and creases. These factors make the which makes the Saribung Peak climbing difficult. 

For the climb, we need to properly pack necessary climbing gear and equipment and follow the footsteps of the veteran Sherpa guides. We tackle some technical climbing sections to arrive at the Saribung Peak summit. You can observe the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains, including Gyajikang, Himlung, Bhrikuti, and others. 

We spend some quality time at the top of the summit and descend gradually. The trail then goes along Nar Phu valley from the Saribung Base Camp. We then pass through the villages of Meta and Koto to arrive at Dharapani. Our Saribung Peak Climbing ends with a scenic drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu through the zig-zag winding hilly roads.

When is the Best Time for Saribung Peak Climbing?

Saribung Peak climbing is ideal during the Autumn (September-November) and the Spring (March-May) season. The favorable weather conditions and the moderate climate make for a great climbing expedition.

Autumn Season

The Autumn season (August-November) is the peak season for climbing and trekking in the Himalayas. Thousands of trekkers and climbers flock the region to trek the Himalayan landscapes from all over the world. You can complete the trek in a pleasant and stable environment. Autumn season comes after the monsoon hence you will get stable weather with minimal precipitation. 

Spring Season

The Spring season (March-May) makes the environment scenic, with wildflowers blooming all over the hills and painting them red and pink. The silver snow-capped mountains on a clear blue sky look incredibly beautiful. You will get a pleasant trekking and climbing experience in spring along with stable weather. 

Winters come with freezing conditions and snowfall over the region. While the Upper Mustang region remains dry throughout the year, the lower region has the risk of landslides and avalanches in monsoon. Hence, the Autumn and Spring season is the ideal time for Saribung Peak climbing.

How Difficult is Saribung Peak Climbing?

The Saribung Peak climbing is a relatively straight forward peak ascension with less technical sections. However, the challenging trail covered in slippery ice can pose a threat for first-time climbers.

Trekkers and climbers need to be physically and mentally fit to complete this trek and the Saribung Peak climb. Moreover, the challenging trail passes through high cliffs and isolated villages. Besides that, the Saribung Peak Climbing route also passes through the ice creases between the Nar-Phu valley and the Damodar Kunda region.

Since this is a high altitude trek, altitude sickness is a big problem for trekkers. The high altitude region has minimal oxygen levels and air pressure. Acclimatization and regular hydration are essential to tackle altitude sickness. However, the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains will compensate for all the struggle. 

Furthermore, the environment in the mountains comes with freezing temperatures, harsh winds, and dust. You will need to trek for 6-7 hours a day for almost three weeks. The unpredictable weather conditions are also a challenge during the trek. Overall, with proper preparation, strong physical fitness, and determination, you can complete the Saribung Peak climbing with ease.