The Damodar Kunda Trek is an exceptional journey that leads you to one of the most sacred sites in the Himalayas, Damodar Kunda. Nestled in the rugged terrain of the Upper Mustang region, this 14-day trek offers a blend of spiritual and natural beauty. Known as a significant pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, Damodar Kunda is a serene lake surrounded by towering peaks and vast, arid landscapes. The trek will take you through Tibetan-style villages, ancient monasteries, and remote settlements, where you can experience the unique culture of the Mustang region. This journey is not only for the adventure seeker but for those who seek spiritual solace amidst the majestic Himalayas.
Best Season to Trek
Autumn (September to November): The clear skies and mild weather make this season the perfect time to trek Damodar Kunda. The visibility of the Himalayan ranges is at its best.
Spring (March to May): The weather remains pleasant, and the landscape comes alive with blooming flowers, offering another beautiful time to explore the trek.
Arrive in Kathmandu, where you will be picked up from the airport and transferred to your hotel. After checking in, we will conduct a trek briefing and prepare for your upcoming adventure.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara and spend the day exploring the Lakeside area and Phewa Lake. Enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Take a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom and begin your trek to Kagbeni. This is the starting point of the Upper Mustang region. The trek leads you through the Kali Gandaki River valley with stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Overnight stay in Kagbeni.
The trail from Kagbeni takes you through Tibetan-style villages along the Kali Gandaki River. The path leads to Chele, where you will get your first glimpses of the barren desert landscape and traditional architecture.
Overnight stay in Chele.
From Chele, trek through the Samar village and ascend the red cliffs, offering spectacular views of the valley. The destination is Syangboche, a village that marks the beginning of higher altitudes.
Overnight stay in Syangboche.
Today, you’ll pass through the longest Mani wall in Mustang, which is an impressive sight. Continue your trek through dramatic Tibetan landscapes to Tsarang, a village with Tibetan-style architecture.
Overnight stay in Tsarang.
The journey continues from Tsarang to Yara, a remote settlement surrounded by cliffs and caves. The trek takes you through Buddhist monasteries and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscapes.
Overnight stay in Yara.
Arrive at Damodar Kunda, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. The lake is surrounded by high peaks, and pilgrims come here for ritual baths and to make offerings. Explore the area and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
Overnight stay in Damodar Kunda.
Spend the day at Damodar Kunda, performing rituals or enjoying the serene beauty of the holy lake. In the afternoon, begin your trek back to Yara.
Overnight stay in Yara.
Return to Tsarang through the same dramatic landscapes, revisiting Tibetan settlements and monasteries along the way.
Overnight stay in Tsarang.
Trek back through the landscapes, with a chance to visit remote settlements and enjoy the tranquility of Mustang. The path leads to Syangboche for an overnight stop.
Overnight stay in Syangboche.
Continue descending through the desert-like terrain of Mustang. The area is dotted with caves and traditional settlements, adding to the surreal beauty of this region.
Overnight stay in Chhusang.
The final leg of the trek takes you back to Jomsom, where the Mustang adventure concludes. The route offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks as you return to the heart of the Upper Mustang region.
Overnight stay in Jomsom.
Fly back to Pokhara and then take a flight back to Kathmandu. Spend the rest of the day shopping or relaxing in the city before preparing for your departure.
The Damodar Kunda Trek is a challenging journey to a sacred high-altitude lake situated at 4,890 meters (16,043 feet) in the Upper Mustang region of Nepal. The trek offers trekkers a unique spiritual and cultural experience, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
For the Damodar Kunda Trek, trekkers need to obtain the following permits:
TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card: This card records trekkers' details for safety purposes.
Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang: This special permit is required due to the region's restricted status.
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These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu through a registered trekking agency.
Accommodation along the trek primarily consists of teahouses and guesthouses. These establishments offer basic amenities such as beds, meals, and communal areas. In some remote areas, camping may be necessary.
Yes, it is possible to hire a guide and porter for the Damodar Kunda Trek. Due to the challenging nature of the trek and the restricted area permit requirement, it is advisable to hire a guide who is familiar with the region and its regulations.
The maximum elevation reached on this trek is approximately 4,890 meters at Damodar Kunda. At this altitude, the risk of severe altitude sickness is minimal. However, it's essential to listen to your body and ascend at a comfortable pace to acclimatize properly.
These insights aim to provide essential information for trekkers planning to undertake the Damodar Kunda Trek.
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