Mustang,,Saribung Peak Climbing via Damodar Lake and Phu Valley

The Mustang, Saribung Peak climb via Damodar Lake and Phu Valley is one of Nepal’s most extraordinary high-Himalayan adventures—an expedition that blends remote trekking, challenging mountaineering, sacred pilgrimage sites, and immersion in ancient Himalayan culture. Organized by Life Himalaya Trekking, this journey leads explorers deep into the restricted Mustang region, across the sacred landscapes of Damodar Kunda, and through the hidden world of the Phu Valley before culminating in a rewarding ascent of Saribung Peak (6,328 m). Rich in natural beauty, spiritual significance, and cultural depth, this trek offers an unforgettable experience for seasoned trekkers seeking a demanding, off-the-beaten-path expedition.

A Scenic Beginning: Jomsom to Upper Mustang

The adventure begins with a dramatic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, the gateway to both Mustang and the Kali Gandaki Valley. As the plane glides between towering Himalayan walls, trekkers are greeted with views of the Nilgiri massif and windswept desert landscapes that hint at the unique terrain ahead. From Jomsom, the route enters Upper Mustang, a once-forbidden kingdom known for its striking cliffs, hidden cave monasteries, and centuries-old Buddhist culture.

Trekkers follow ancient trails linking remote settlements such as Kagbeni, Chele, Ghami, and Tsarang, absorbing landscapes characterized by red canyons, rock formations, and an endless palette of ochre and gold. The centerpiece of Upper Mustang is Lo Manthang, the walled capital city founded in the 14th century. Its monasteries, royal palace, and whitewashed homes reflect deep Tibetan influence and a way of life preserved through isolation. Days spent exploring Lo Manthang reveal a living museum of Himalayan culture, spiritual practice, and medieval architecture.

Toward the Sacred Waters of Damodar Kunda

From Lo Manthang, the journey heads north and east toward the isolated and spiritually significant region of Damodar Kunda. Located at high elevation in a barren Himalayan expanse, Damodar Kunda holds immense religious importance for both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. The lake is believed to wash away sins and serve as a gateway to spiritual purification. The landscape surrounding the lake is equally awe-inspiring—glacial valleys, gentle ridges, and untouched wilderness stretch toward the Tibetan border.

Reaching Damodar Kunda is both physically challenging and mentally rewarding. The altitude grows more demanding, the air thinner, and the environment more rugged. Yet the serenity of the lake, combined with its shimmering turquoise surface set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, makes this portion of the journey deeply moving for many trekkers.

Crossing to the Hidden Valley of Phu

After visiting Damodar Lake, the route continues toward Phu Valley, which forms part of the restricted Nar Phu region. This section of the trek is remote, rarely visited, and characterized by rugged trails crossing glacial moraines, high passes, and windswept plateaus.

Phu is widely regarded as one of the most culturally untouched areas in Nepal. Its stone villages, ancient monasteries, and medieval lifestyle present trekkers with a rare glimpse into traditional Tibetan culture. The people of Phu have maintained customs—such as weaving, yak herding, and high-altitude farming—largely unchanged for centuries. The valley is dotted with religious landmarks, including centuries-old stupas, prayer walls, and the iconic Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, which reflects the deep spiritual heritage of the region.

Trekkers often spend a day or two exploring Phu and acclimatizing, enjoying a slower pace before the ascent toward the higher Himalayas begins.

Saribung Peak: A Technical but Rewarding Ascent

The highlight of the entire expedition is the ascent of Saribung Peak, a challenging climb that rewards mountaineers with breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Himlung, and Mustang ranges. The approach to Saribung Peak involves crossing the icy, high-altitude Saribung La Pass, which sits above 6,000 meters and connects Mustang with the Nar Phu region.

The terrain becomes increasingly technical as trekkers move onto the glacier, crossing crevasses, ice slopes, and snowfields. Basic mountaineering skills—rope work, ice axe use, and crampon techniques—are essential. Life Himalaya Trekking provides expert climbing guides who ensure safety, proper acclimatization, and efficient climbing strategies.

Reaching the summit of Saribung Peak is an exhilarating accomplishment. The top offers an expansive 360-degree Himalayan panorama that captures the raw wilderness of both Mustang and the northern Annapurna region. For many climbers, the feeling of standing at 6,328 meters—surrounded by endless peaks and silence—is among the most defining moments of their mountaineering journeys.

Mustang Teri La Pass: A High Himalayan Challenge

In addition to Saribung Peak, the route includes an exciting crossing of Teri La Pass (5,955 m)—one of the highest and most remote passes in Nepal. Teri La links Mustang with the Upper Nar Phu region, offering trekkers another challenging yet rewarding section. The pass provides incredible scenery, wide glacial basins, and a true sense of Himalayan isolation.

This section is recommended only for experienced trekkers due to the altitude and remoteness. However, with the professional support of Life Himalaya’s guides and staff, trekkers can navigate this passage safely and confidently.

Why Choose Life Himalaya Trekking?

Life Himalaya Trekking specializes in organizing expeditions across Nepal’s most remote regions, and the Mustang–Damodar Lake–Saribung–Phu Valley route is one of their signature adventures. The company ensures:

• Experienced climbing and trekking guides

• Full camping support with high-quality tents, kitchen supplies, and logistics

• Insurance and proper equipment for guides and porters

• Accurate permits, including restricted area and climbing permits

• Personalized itineraries for private or group departures

• Safety-focused travel with reliable communication and altitude management

Their deep local knowledge and commitment to responsible tourism create a seamless experience for trekkers exploring these isolated Himalayan corridors.

Best Time to Trek

The best season for this expedition is August to mid-November, when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and high passes are accessible. Late monsoon and early autumn are ideal for Mustang and the Damodar region, which lie in the rain shadow of the Himalayas.

A Rare Himalayan Journey

Whether you are a seasoned mountaineer, an adventurous trekker, or someone seeking cultural immersion far from mainstream trails, the Mustang–Damodar Lake–Saribung Peak and Phu Valley trek offers an unparalleled Himalayan experience. Its combination of sacred lakes, ancient cultures, untouched valleys, and demanding high-altitude climbs makes it one of Nepal’s most remarkable long-distance expeditions—an unforgettable journey with Life Himalaya Trekking at your side.