Mustang Damodar Kunda Trek

Trip ID: UM6176
Destination Mustang
Duration 21 Days
Difficulty Strenuous Trek Persons
Group Size 2-30
Maximum Altitude 5565m.
Best Time Spring and Autumn
Activities Trekking / Hiking
Accommodation Hotel/Teahouse/Lodges
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Transportation Private
Start from Kathmandu
End at Kathmandu

Trip Overview

Trip Highlight

  • Visit Damodar Kunda (4,890m)—one of the holiest lakes in the Himalayas.
  • Experience deep spiritual sites worshipped by Buddhists & Hindus.
  • Explore Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Mustang.
  • Trek through dramatic landscapes—colorful canyons, sky caves, desert cliffs.
  • Witness centuries-old monasteries such as Jampa Lhakhang, Thupchen, Chode Gompa.
  • Cross high passes including Kyumupani Danda (5,565m) and Gyu La Pass (4,077m).
  • Enjoy spectacular views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Nilgiri, Damodar Himal.
  • Walk through untouched villages like Tangye, Yara, Tetang, and Charang.
  • Visit the sacred pilgrimage site Muktinath Temple.

Detailed Itinerary

  • Day 1 : Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

    As your plane lands at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed by our company representative with a warm Nepali greeting. A private vehicle will transfer you to your hotel in Thamel, the vibrant tourist hub of Kathmandu. After check-in, you may relax or take a short evening walk around the lively streets filled with shops, cafés, and cultural markets.

    Overnight at a 3-star hotel.

  • Day 2 : Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparation

    Today begins with a relaxed breakfast, followed by a short trip briefing conducted by your trekking guide. They will check your gear and ensure all permits and logistics are ready.

    You will then explore some iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites—such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Kathmandu Durbar Square, or Pashupatinath—depending on your interest.

    The rest of the evening is free to pack and prepare for the next day’s journey.
    Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Day 3 : Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (850m) – 6 to 7 Hours

    After breakfast, your journey to Pokhara begins along the Prithvi Highway, one of Nepal’s most scenic road routes. The drive follows the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers and passes picturesque villages, forested hills, and terraced farmlands.

    Upon reaching Pokhara, enjoy stunning Himalayan views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri. Spend the evening relaxing beside Phewa Lake.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Overnight in Pokhara (3-star hotel).

  • Day 4 : Day 4: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720m) & Trek to Kagbeni (2,810m)

    An early morning mountain flight takes you to Jomsom, offering spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After landing, the trek begins with a gentle walk along the windy Kali Gandaki valley toward Kagbeni.
    This medieval village is a gateway to Upper Mustang and is known for its narrow alleys, sacred monasteries, and Tibetan-style houses.
    Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
    Overnight in Kagbeni.

  • Day 5 : Day 5: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,060m)

    After breakfast, you enter the restricted Upper Mustang region. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River, passing through Tiri Gaon and narrow canyons with red cliffs.

    You will cross suspension bridges, walk through ancient chortens, and climb toward Tangbe village—known for whitewashed houses, orchards, and buckwheat fields.
    Continue further to reach Chele, a beautiful cliffside settlement.
    Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
    Overnight in Chele.

  • Day 6 : Day 6: Trek from Chele to Syanbochen (3,475m)

    Today is a challenging yet rewarding day. The trail climbs through steep, rugged terrain, passing along dramatic canyons and windy ridges.

    You will cross Taklam La Pass (3,624m) and Dajori La Pass (3,735m). Along the way, visit Ranchung Chungsi Cave, an ancient meditation cave associated with Guru Rinpoche.
    After a scenic hike across rolling hills and red sandstone formations, you reach the peaceful village of Syanbochen.
    Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
    Overnight in Syanbochen.

  • Day 7 : Day 7: Trek from Syanbochen to Ghami (3,520m)

    The trail ascends to Yamda La Pass (3,850m) through beautiful landscapes dotted with small teahouses, mani walls, and barley fields.
    You walk past Tibetan-style villages such as Geling before continuing to Nyi La Pass (4,010m)—one of the highest points of the trek. A long descent leads you to Ghami, one of the largest villages in Upper Mustang.
    Ghami is famous for its historic red monastery and one of the longest mani walls in Nepal.
    Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
    Overnight in Ghami.

  • Day 8 : Day 8: Trek from Ghami to Charang (3,560m)

    Leaving Ghami, the trail crosses rugged terrain and climbs past colorful cliffs. After crossing a suspension bridge, you ascend towards Charang.

    Charang is an impressive village known for its ancient Charang Monastery and the old royal palace overlooking vast fields and stone-walled fields.
    The dramatic setting makes Charang one of the most culturally significant settlements in Mustang.
    Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
    Overnight in Charang.

  • Day 9 : Day 9: Trek from Charang to Lo Manthang (3,850m)

    Today’s trek is one of the most memorable. The trail gradually climbs to Lo La Pass (3,960m), where you get your first incredible panoramic view of the walled capital, Lo Manthang.

    Descending toward the city, you will feel as though you are stepping back in time. Lo Manthang is a cultural treasure with its white-washed walls, narrow alleys, centuries-old monasteries, and palace complexes.
    Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
    Overnight in Lo Manthang.

  • Day 10 : Day 10: Exploration Day in Lo Manthang

    Today is dedicated to exploring this ancient Himalayan kingdom. Visit significant sites including:

    • Jampa Lhakhang (God House)
    • Thupchen Monastery
    • Chode Monastery
    • The Ancient Royal Palace

    In the afternoon, take a jeep or horseback ride to Chhoser Cave, an intricate multi-level sky cave used for meditation and storage for centuries.
    This is a deeply cultural and spiritual day.
    Overnight in Lo Manthang.

  • Day 11 : Day 11: Trek from Lo Manthang to Yara (3,650m)

    Leaving the capital, the trail winds through desert-like highlands, far-off cliffs, and riverbeds. The walk takes you into the eastern part of Upper Mustang with a dramatic shift in scenery.

    Yara village greets you with its traditional stone houses and peaceful environment.
    Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
    Overnight in Yara.

  • Day 12 : Day 12: Trek from Yara to Bas Khola via Kyumupani Danda (5,565m)

    Today is one of the toughest days of the trek. After ascending steadily through barren terrain, you climb to Kyumupani Danda (5,565m), offering majestic views of the Damodar Himal range.
    Descending from the high ridge, you reach Bas Khola where you will set up camp.
    Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
    Overnight in tented camp.

  • Day 13 : Day 13: Trek from Bas Khola to Damodar Kunda (4,890m)

    This is the most sacred day of the entire journey.
    The trail ascends gradually across rocky terrain, and as you reach Damodar Danda, the holy lakes come into view—Chakra Kunda, Dudh Kunda, and Tama Kunda.

    Upon reaching Damodar Kunda, pilgrims traditionally bathe in the lakes to purify sins and perform rituals. The serene and spiritual ambiance makes this one of the most memorable moments of your trek.
    Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
    Camping near Damodar Kunda.

  • Day 14 : Day 14: Trek from Damodar Kunda to Ghechung Khola (3,350m)

    After a beautiful sunrise over the sacred lakes, you begin the descent through remote Mustang landscapes. You walk across vast plateaus, riverbeds, and rugged hills before reaching Ghechung Khola.

    Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
    Overnight in camp.

  • Day 15 : Day 15: Trek from Ghechung Khola to Tangye (3,240m)

    Today’s trail passes through deep canyons and dramatic desert cliffs. Tangye is a small yet culturally rich village renowned for its long mani walls, white-washed houses, and panoramic surroundings.

    Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
    Overnight in Tangye.

  • Day 16 : Day 16: Trek from Tangye to Tetang (3,040m)

    The day begins with a long ascent to Paha Pass (4,210m), which offers breathtaking mountain views. From the top, you descend along a sandy trail toward Tetang, located close to the Kali Gandaki Valley.

    Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
    Overnight in Tetang.

  • Day 17 : Day 17: Trek from Tetang to Muktinath via Gyu La Pass

    After an early breakfast, you begin a steep ascent to Gyu La Pass (4,077m).

    From the top, the views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna are spectacular. After descending, you reach Muktinath—one of the most sacred temples for both Hindus and Buddhists.
    Explore the 108 water spouts, the eternal flame, and the monastery complex.
    Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
    Overnight in Muktinath.

  • Day 18 : Day 18: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,720m)

    The trail descends through ancient villages such as Jharkot and Khinga. Walk along the Kali Gandaki valley and reach Jomsom, famous for its apples, windy afternoons, and Thakali culture.

    This is your final trekking day.
    Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
    Overnight in Jomsom.

  • Day 19 : Day 19: Fly Jomsom to Pokhara – Relaxation Day

    Take a scenic morning flight back to Pokhara.

    Spend the day boating on Phewa Lake, exploring Lakeside streets, or visiting Devi’s Fall and the Peace Pagoda.
    Overnight in Pokhara.

  • Day 20 : Day 20: Drive Back to Kathmandu

    After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu similarly following the river valleys and rural landscapes.

    In the evening, enjoy a farewell Nepali dinner with cultural performances.
    Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Day 21 : Day 21: Final Departure

    Our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight.

    We bid you farewell with best wishes for your future journeys.

Trip Cost Inclusion

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off services
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara transfer by deluxe tourist bus
  • Pokhara to Jomsom flight ticket
  • Jomsom to Pokhara flight ticket
  • Three meals a day during the trek: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: 3 night in Kathmandu and 2 nights in Pokhara
  • Accommodation during the trek in lodges and tents
  • Experienced trekking guide including food, lodge, salary, transportation (bus/plane), insurance, and equipment
  • Essential trekking equipment: down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after the trek)
  • All necessary legal documents and permits: Mustang Restricted Permit and ACAP
  • A token of love/gift from the company
  • Fresh fruits and dry fruits during the trek
  • All government taxes
  • Farewell dinner or lunch at a suitable time

Trip Cost Exclusion

  • Extra hotel nights in Kathmandu and Pokhara (in case of early arrival, late departure, or any reason beyond itinerary)
  • Trekking porter (available upon guest’s request at additional cost)
  • All bar bills: soft drinks, Coke, beer, snacks, etc.
  • Personal expenses: telephone, internet, laundry, boiled water, battery charging, etc.
  • Donations and entry fees to monasteries or religious sites
  • Tips for guide, porter, and staff (expected but not mandatory)

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