Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trek

Trip Mode: On lodge & guest houses and camping.
Trek Grade: Moderate to adventurous walks.
Highest elevation gain:  On route Damodar Kunda at 5,600 m pass.
Trek duration: 17 Nights & 18 Days (Jomsom to Jomsom)
Total Trip: 21 Nights & 22 Days (Kathmandu to Kathmandu)
Season: April to June and September to October

Introduction

An adventure to Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda trek leads you to high country on an extension of the Tibetan plateau, regarded as the world and largest plateau. White Hill Adventure Treks & Expedition adventure to Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda trek, a remarkable trekking with expert guides and staff, who will show you the wonders of Himalaya and mystical culture of Mustang area.Upper Mustang & Damodar Kund an adventure visiting old historical places of Lo-Manthang and sacred Damodar Kund, one of the remote and isolated pilgrimage spot for Hindu and Buddhist religions. Few trekkers and pilgrimage manage to reach this holy spot of Damodar Kund, so this is a wonderful opportunity with White Hill Adventure Treks & Expedition to visit this far-flung destination and hidden areas of Far West Himalaya. On this Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda trek witness fascinating culture and traditional villages of strong Tibetan origin interwoven with Buddhism, enriched with ancient culture and custom as it was for thousands of years. On the walk beautiful views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mustang Himal-Bhirkuti and Damodar mountain range. Upper Mustang and Lo-Manthang area was once a forbidden kingdom just opened its doors to travelers since 1991 AD. The Government and Annapurna Conservation control flow of trekkers with extra fees to visit this world country.

Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda trek starts with short flight from scenic Pokhara city to Jomsom, the headquarter town of Mustang area, from our adventure starts following Kali-Gandaki River upstream through Kagbeni, Chele, Charang to reach Lo Manthang the walled city, actually a large town village, in early days known as walled city of Lo. This high dry country for more than 500 years ruled by kings and queens which was part of Tibet province, at present unofficial Mustang Raja (state king of Mustang), recognized as the former district of Mustang king. After an exciting and great time around Upper Mustang heading to holy Damodar Kund in complete wilderness, after a time around hidden areas of Mustang Himalaya, return journey to Jomsom for the scenic flight back to Pokhara and overland drive to Kathmandu with great services of White Hill Adventure Treks & Expedition.

Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda trek Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
Day 02: Drive / Fly to Pokhara – 06 hrs via overland and 30 mins by air.
Day 03: Morning flight to Jomsom 2,715 m and trek to Kagbeni – 04 hrs.
Day 04: Trek to Chele 3,050 m – 06 hrs.
Day 05: Trek to Geling 3,540 m – 05 hrs.
Day 06: Trek to Tsarang 3,560 m – 06 hrs.
Day 07: Trek to Lo-Manthang 3,700 m – 05 hrs.
Day 08: In Lo-Manthang rest day for acclimatization and local visitors.
Day 09: Trek to Yara 3,550 m via Dhi / Dri – 06 hrs.
Day 10: Trek to Ghuma Thanti 4,856meter via 5,100 m pass – 07 hrs.
Day 11: Trek to Damodar Kunda via another un-named 5,600meter pass,
Day 12: Rest day at Damodar Kunda for exploration.
Day 13: Trek to Ghuma Thanti – 06 hrs.
Day 14: Trek to Yara 3,550 m – 07 hrs.
Day 15: Trek to Luri Gompa 3,900 m – 05 hrs.
Day 16: Trek to Tange 3,250 m – 06 hrs.
Day 17: Trek to Tsusang 2,920 m – 06 hrs.
Day 18: Trek to Muktinath 3,800 m – 06 hrs.
Day 19: Trek to Jomsom 2,715 m – 06 hrs.
Day 20: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara 860 m – 25 mins flight.
Day 21: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu afternoon free at leisure.
Day 22: International departure homeward bound.

Detail Itinerary

Day 01:  Arrival at Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
On arrival at Kathmandu and Nepal’s International Airport, White Hill Adventure guide and staff will receive you. A short drive in the heart of Kathmandu city where all good hotels are located at Thamel or near about. On reaching the hotel check into your room and after getting refreshed, join with other members for trek briefing provided by our guide. Regarding the hotel, lodges, and foods on route trek as well as local cultures and of the Upper Mustang beautiful landscapes. Evening a welcome group dinner in a nice Nepali Restaurant with a cultural program an introduction to Nepali foods and local traditional customs.

 

Day 02: Drive / Fly to Pokhara, 30 mins by air and 06 hours by surface.
Depart from the hotel for an exciting drive to Nepal Mid-West at beautiful and scenic Pokhara city. Drive on vehicles as per group size either in a private car, four wheels, coach, or on a regular Tourist Bus. 

The journey heads beyond Kathmandu valley towards low warm areas through farmland, villages, and towns. Overlooking views of distant snow peaks as drive reach Pokhara by the serene Phewa Lakeside.

Check into a nice lovely hotel, with time for a short stroll around the Phewa Lakeside, where all good hotels, restaurants, and shops are located.

(Option for 30 minutes scenic flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu). 

Day 03: Morning flight to Jomsom 2,715 m trek to Kagbeni, 2,810 m- 04 hrs.
Early breakfast, transfer to Pokhara airport for a scenic panoramic flight to Jomsom, facing views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalaya range.

A flight of less than half an hour, on reaching Jomsom airport, short walk to a nearby restaurant for refreshment before starting the walk. Jomsom is a large town and headquarters of the Mustang district, the gateway to Upper Mustang and towards the border of Nepal and Tibet. As well as to holy Muktinath temple and beyond to Manang crossing high Thorang-La Pass. 

From Jomsom follow the guide, where all baggage is loaded on a mule or carried by strong porters. The walk leads on the flat plain of Kaligandaki River reaching a small settlement at Eklay Bhatti, with several nice lodges, after a short rest walk towards the west to Kagbeni. An interesting village with a monastery of strong Tibetan influence culture and custom. 

Kagbeni is the entrance to Upper Mustang and beyond to the Tibet border via the high Kara-La Pass. Overnight in a nice lodge close to the village, with ample to witness the local culture of local activities.

Day 04: Trek to Chele 3,050 m-06 hrs.
After overnight at Kagbeni, start the morning walk entering into Upper Mustang towards the former walled kingdom of Lo-Manthang.

A short climb to start the morning trek as the trail follows to windswept valley within a giant multi colorful canyon. Like a fortress windblown high cliffs dotted with small caves, as walk follows on dry terrain past nice farm village. As route leads through Tiri-Gaon and then a short climb to Chele for an overnight halt in a nice simple lodge.

Day 05: Trek to Geling 3,540 m - 06 hrs.
Spending first overnight around Upper Mustang at Chele village, start the morning on a wide winding trail. A short climb leads above Samar village at a high ridge, overlooking super scenic views of dramatic landscapes with snow peaks.

Then head down encountering a Buddhist monument known as Chorten, with religious colors painted red, black, yellow, and white. 

The walk continues towards the next valley lined with a few juniper trees, then crosses a stream with a climb to a ridge. As the trail descend to Syangbochen an isolated small settlement with tea shops and a simple lodge. A possible lunch stop and then head for a climb to a small pass of above 3,765 m. From the top down to enter another scenic wide valley reaching the nice village of Geling. A lovely spot within a wide crops field of barley surrounds the village with a few large trees of Populus, willows. Overnight in a nice guest house with warm homely hospitality, with time to browse around the impressive village.

Day 06: Trek to Tsarang 3,560 m - 06 hrs.
After Geling starts the morning walk following a path uphill, and then down to Tama Gaon small settlements. The adventure continues with a steady climb that leads to a high Nyi-La pass at 3,950 m. The top of Nyi-La marks the boundary of the southern and northern territory of Lo, the Upper Mustang. Trek leads to a junction where the trail of Ghami and Tsarang villages meets, as walk leads to a bridge. 

The walk follows through a series of long Buddhist Mani prayer walls and spinning wheels, the longest around the Nepal Himalaya region. 

Finally, head for the last climb to a high ridge, and then descent to Tsarang for an overnight stop. Tsarang one of the major villages of Upper Mustang has nice good lodges of Tibetan style built houses.

The village is encircled by a field of high altitude crops, lined with willow trees, with a huge five-storied Dzong/fortress, and a Red painted monastery placed at the end of Kali Gandaki River gorge.

Day 07: Trek to Lo-Manthang 3,700 m - 05 hrs.
Today heading to one of the major highlights of the adventure to the walled former kingdom Lo-Manthang. Start the morning after a nice pleasant overnight at Tsarang, the walk follows to a bridge reaching Marang village. 

Following a steep uphill path to a high ridge, marked with Buddhist monument the Chorten with prayer walls. 

From the ridge top down to a valley floor, with one more climb on top Lo-La pass at 3,950 m. Rewards spectacular views of a wide snow mountain range with scenic views of landscapes. As well looking towards the old kingdom of Lo-Manthang at near distance, after an enjoyable scenery downhill to cross a stream. A short climb from the stream to enter the old walled kingdom of Lo-Manthang for a few overnight halts.

Day 08: At Lo-Manthang rest day for acclimatization and local visit.
Enjoy a full day in this magical old former walled kingdom of Lo-Manthang, in the early days known as the city. Since the golden era of Ame Pal from the 12th Century to Jigme Wanchuk Bista the late present last king Raja of Mustang.

 Visit the former fort palace on special permission, the rest of the day exploring the town with narrow alley. Including the famous Namgyal Gompa, Champa Lakhang (God House), Red Thubchen Gompa, and Chyodi Gompa. 

Day 09: Trek to Yara 3,550 m via Dhi / Dri - 06 hrs.
After an enjoyable time at Lo-Manthang, our next adventure leads far off from the main trail towards the complete wilderness. Having breakfast with the warm hospitality of the lodge owners and the locals, walk for a while on the same trail.

Our route diverts northeast of Upper Mustang, heading downhill to Phuyung Khola / stream to Dhi Gaon. Possible lunch stop, and then cross a wooden bridge above Phuyung Khola / stream. Then the climb starts on a steep-sided hill to Yara, a small windblown village lined with Buddhist prayer flags.

From here onwards till Muktinath in tented camps, and meals served by our expert camping cook and kitchen staff. After getting organized in the camp, with time to explore the dramatic country of an amazing landscape. 

Day 10: Trek to Ghuma Thanti 4,856 meter via 5,100 m pass - 07 hrs.
From here onwards into windswept high terrain as walk leads on the dusty trail to Luri Gompa and the village. After a short rest and enjoying the surrounding glorious views walk continues towards an exposed terrain. As the walk follows past Yak herder's summer pasture with a temporary shelter of stone huts. 

Walk along a faint path with a climb to a ridge called Gangra-La at 3,870 m, leaving villages and human settlements. From here in the complete mountainous wilderness around remote pockets of far western Nepal Himalayas.

Walk lead within picturesque scenery, then finally end the walk at Ghuma-Thanti for overnight camp after crossing a high ridge. Ghuma-Thanti travelers and pilgrims resting place on route holy Damodar Kund (pond). Overnight camp on a nice level ground facing views of surrounding high snow-capped peaks.

Day 11:  Trek to Damodar Kunda via another un-named 5,600-meter pass.
An exciting and long walk to Damodar Kund, crossing the highest point of the adventure over an un-named pass. Morning departs from Ghuma Tanthi as walks follow to a wide-open wild country of Upper Mustang. The landscapes changes as walk head close towards high snow peaks and glaciers of rocky moraines to reach Namta Khola. As route leads to cross another high pass over Kyamu-La at 5,300 m and downhill to Batsyak. 

From this wild area of Namta Khola and Batsyak stream, then slowly walk towards Damodar Kund. A scenic long day walks rewards with glamorous views of Bhirkuti and Damodar Himal with Saribung peak. On reaching the top of a high ridge, then a long descent to Damodar Kund for overnight camp. 

Enjoy the tranquil surroundings within the holiest of all holy ponds of Damodar Kund. The camp is set close to the shore of the pond, and relax with a warm cup of hot refreshment served from our camping kitchen. 

Day 12: Rest day at Damodar Kund for exploration.
Enjoy the free day at scenic and holy Damodar Kund, for devotees and pilgrims and for the belief of ancient Vara Puran has mentioned the Damodar Kund, as one of the holiest spots around the Himalayas. 

The great Kaligandaki River is one of the sources it is believed as a manifestation of the Hindu God Lord Vishnu. 

For Hindu Damodar as auspicious Head and Muktinath as the mouth, Shaligram Chakra as the chest. Ru Kshetra of Palpa district the waist, Devaghatam as Knee and lastly the auspicious feet of Lord Vishnu. 

A great wonderful mystic explanation of lord Vishnu, for interested adventurers, can enjoy a short hike around with close views of Bhirkuti Himal and the rocky moraine of Khumjungar glacier. 

Day 13: Trek to Ghuma Thanti - 06 hrs.
Retrace the journey back to Ghuma Thanti, the trek will be much easier after being acclimatized within high altitude. Start the long day, walk on the same route through summer pasture areas, chances of spotting some wildlife. Like the rare snow leopard, blue sheep or Kang / wild ass often comes for grazing from the Tibetan side. The path descends to 4,940 m at Ghuma Thanti after crossing a 5,600 m pass for overnight camp at Ghuma Thanti.

Day 14: Trek to Yara 3,550 m - 07 hrs.
A long day walk of the adventure on a return journey to Yara, after a great experience in complete wilderness. As well in the harmony of pristine mountain surroundings, slowly the tough day ends heading back to Yara village. 

Day 15: Trek to Luri Gompa 3,900 m - 04 hrs.
After a long day walk of the previous day, morning is a short day from Yara to Luri Gompa. A small settlement is sparsely populated, as the walk ends on reaching the mystical and fascinating areas of Luri Gompa. One of the last cave monasteries of Lo / Upper Mustang and Tibet. Overnight camp or stay in a local simple guest-house, the history has no written record of Luri Gompa constructions.

The monastery is linked with the Kagyu sects of Buddhism, a fascinating place to visit the monastery with vibrant paintings. This proves they were painted by Nepalese (Newari) artists working for Tibetan patrons.  

The cave shrine dates from the 13th - 14th century, the central chamber of the Gompa is carved from the rock. Creating a domed ceiling, painted with a series of Mahasidha, Sakyamuni Buddha, and Chenrez figures, which are excellent masterpieces. 

Lining the walls, fresco with a series of 14th-century paintings afternoon free at leisure after a tour of the monastery.  

Day 16: Trek to Tange 3,250 m - 06 hrs.
After an exciting and interesting time at Luri Gompa and around remote corners of Upper Mustang. Start the morning walk on the high trail through barren, arid terrain of bare red eroded hills. Weathered by strong winds and snows, as walk slowly climb to a small ridge-top, and then downhill to Tange village a moderate size village of about 30 houses. 

The houses are closely attached, with rooftops storing woods of big dry big logs, representing the status. As woods are scarce and valuable treasures of Upper Mustang and Tibetan people, a heritage storing woods since ancient times. Overnight in simple local lodges or in a tented camp by the field close to the village.

Day 17: Trek to Tsusang 2,920 m - 06 hrs.
From here onwards walking through a number of smaller villages within red earth landscapes, and in a wide plateau. As walk leads on a gentle path for a few hours facing views of snow-capped peaks. Then walk downhill to Tsusang village for an overnight stop in the comfort of a nice inn or guest house.

Day 18: Trek to Muktinath 3,800 m- 06 hrs.
Today’s walk from Tsusang heading towards another holy spot of Muktinath, a long day on a gradual winding trail. As the route heads northeast past several temporary huts and shelters of Yak herders, walking on higher terrain. 

Facing views of Nilgiris peaks with the Dhaulagiri Himalaya range, the trail winds up reaching a wide trail. Slowly the day completes on reaching Muktinath for an overnight stop in the comfort of a nice, lovely lodge.  

Afternoon tour of holy Muktinath temple and its interesting places with a monastery. Muktinath, an important pilgrimage for Hindus of Nepal and India visits in large numbers for worship and offers prayers. 

The word Mukti means to be free and to the road of Nirvana. Here natural elements are displayed in miraculous form-flickering blue flames of natural methane gas burning on water, stone, and earth. An offering is said to have been first lit by Brahma, the Hindu god, and creator of the universe. This natural wonder has awed man from the beginning, for Muktinath sanctity goes back into the antiquity of 2,300 years ago.  

This area is equally holy for Hindus and Buddhists, around Kaligandaki and Muktinath pilgrims search for black shiny fossils called shaligram (ammonite), found in abundance around this area.

 

Day 19: Trek to Jomsom 2,715 m - 06 hrs.
Today last and final walk of the great adventure heading back to Jomsom town, starting the morning downhill. Then reaching flat areas of Kaligandaki River valley, a pleasant walk leads to Jomsom town for last overnight. After a great marvelous adventure around Upper Mustang and Damodar Kund. At Jomsom check into a nice lodge and celebrate the successful trekking with local apple products and a great nice dinner.

Day 20: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara 860 m-20 mins flight.
Early breakfast and transfer to Jomsom airport for a sweeping short flight of fewer than 30 minutes to land at Pokhara. During flight enjoy views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiris, and Annapurna range of mountains with rolling hills dotted with farm villages. 

From the Pokhara airport transfer back to the hotels by the Phewa Lakeside, with the afternoon free for individual activities or just relax and enjoy the views of the Annapurna Himalayas.

Day 21: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu afternoon free at leisure.
Morning having hearty breakfast at the hotel, where an interesting drive from Pokhara reaches you to Kathmandu. After a wonderful experience and adventure on Upper Mustang and Damodar Kund Trek, on reaching Kathmandu transfer to your hotels. (Option by air from Pokhara a 30 minutes scenic flight to Kathmandu)

Day 22: International departure homeward bound.
After a memorable and great adventure in Nepal with Upper Mustang & Damodar Kund Trekking and the great services of White Hills Hill Adventure Treks & Expedition guides, transfer to Kathmandu and Nepal international airport for homeward bound or to respective countries.

Cost Information

Equipment

For Head

1. Sun hat / Scarf
2. Sunglasses and Headlight

For Upper Body

1. Water Proof Jacket
2. Down Jacket / Warm Jacket
3. Light Weight T-shirt (At least 1 pair)

For Lower Body

1. Water Proof Pants
2. Running tights
3. Light Weight Pant

For Hand

1. Gloves

For Feet

1. Thin Inner socks (At least 2 pairs)
2. Woolen socks
3. Trekking boots (preferred comfortable boots)

Other Accessaries

1. Sleeping bag
2. Water bottle etc
3. Suncream
4. Water purification tablets
5. Toiletries (Toilet paper etc)
6. Warm hat
7. Trekking Bag Etc.

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