Damodar Himal and Upper Mustang, Nepal / Expedition

Saribung Expedition

Link the Phu valley with the remote Saribung area and Upper Mustang on a climbing traverse to Lo Manthang and Jomsom.

Lo Manthang in Upper Mustang, the region of the Saribung approach
Lo Manthang in Upper Mustang, the region of the Saribung approach.
Duration
25 daysOutline programme
Summit objective
6,346 mRoute objective
Season
Spring / AutumnAsk for current dates
Experience
High-altitude expeditionExpedition

A closer look at the journey.

Saribung combines mountain camping and glacier travel with a traverse between the Phu valley and Upper Mustang. This itinerary approaches from Koto and Phu before reaching the Saribung camps, then continues towards Luri Gompa and Lo Manthang. The return through Mustang brings a contrasting landscape of open valleys, settlements and monasteries.

The approach and climbing phases form one extended mountain journey. Time above base camp is used for acclimatization, carrying equipment, rest and a summit attempt when conditions allow. Discuss your climbing history with us so that the route, team support and equipment plan suit the objective and your experience.

  • Phu valley approach from Koto
  • Saribung glacier camps and summit objective
  • Upper Mustang, Luri Gompa and Lo Manthang

The route, day by day.

This is an outline programme. The team will confirm the route and arrangements with you, allowing for weather, access and local conditions.

Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu

Meet the team and prepare for the overland approach.

Day 2-4Travel to Koto

Drive towards Besisahar and Syange, then trek through Dharapani to Koto.

Day 5-8Phu valley approach

Trek through Dharamsala and Kyang to Phu, then continue towards Nagoru.

Day 9-10Saribung climbing camps

Reach base camp and move higher when the team is ready.

Day 11Saribung summit attempt

Attempt the summit in suitable conditions and return to the base camp area.

Day 12-14Traverse towards Luri Gompa

Continue through Namta Khola and Ghuma Tanti across the high country into Mustang.

Day 15-17Surkhang and Lo Manthang

Trek to Lo Manthang and spend a day exploring the settlement.

Day 18-21Mustang descent to Jomsom

Return through Charang, Syangboche, Chele and Kagbeni to Jomsom.

Day 22-23Pokhara and Kathmandu

Travel from Jomsom to Pokhara and continue to Kathmandu.

Day 24Kathmandu reserve day

Allow time for sightseeing and changes to the mountain journey.

Day 25Departure

Transfer for your onward flight.

A clear plan and quotation.

Request an itemised quotation for your group, dates and preferred level of support. Agree the inclusions before booking travel.

Services to discuss

  • Agree the permit arrangements and in-country transport in your quotation.
  • Agree the guiding, porter support and responsibilities on the mountain.
  • Agree accommodation, camp facilities and the meals provided at each stage.
  • Agree shared climbing equipment, communications and emergency arrangements.

Budget separately

  • International travel, entry documents and costs outside the agreed programme.
  • Personal climbing equipment and insurance appropriate to the itinerary.
  • Personal spending, tips and any separately agreed climbing staff bonuses.
  • Additional accommodation, transport or evacuation costs if plans change.

Before you set out.

High-altitude trekking experience, glacier travel and crampon skills, and readiness for remote camping and consecutive passes are required.

Accommodation: Hotels in Kathmandu, trekking lodges or approach camps, and tented climbing camps.

Use the trip preparation guide to plan equipment, travel documents and questions for the team.

Is the summit attempt on a fixed day?

The itinerary gives a climbing window. Your guide will adjust the attempt, rest days and descent to the conditions and the team. Reaching the summit cannot be guaranteed.

What experience should I discuss before booking?

High-altitude trekking experience, glacier travel and crampon skills, and readiness for remote camping and consecutive passes are required. Share details of your recent climbs, altitude experience and rope skills so that we can assess the preparation and support required.

Everest, Lhotse and Makalu catching the last sun, seen from Gokyo Ri

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Bhim PaudelExecutive Director

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Season

Highest altitude so far, any summits, and when you can travel.