Saribung Peak Climbing

Location: Kathmandu

Kathmandu Altitude: 1345 Meters

The Saribung Peak Climbing expedition begins with our arrival at Kathmandu. As we land at Tribhuvan International Airport, we will be escorted to our hotel to rest and stay overnight. We can also visit the office of Peak Climbing Nepal to learn more about the expedition and meet the team helping us throughout the journey.

The second day starts with an early morning breakfast in the hotel. After that, we will begin our sightseeing activities around Kathmandu city. Starting from Pashupatinath Temple, we will cover the most popular destinations around the valley. Pashupatinath Temple is the holiest temple of Hindu Devotees. People worship the Lord of Lords, Maha Shiva, in this temple. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, this temple offers great religious and cultural significance.

After that, we will explore the ancient Buddhist Temples: Swayambhunath and Boudhanath. These ancient Buddhist Monasteries have a long history and religious significance in the country. Swayambhunath lies at a hilltop to the southwest of the bustling city. There are several chortens, ashramas, prayer flags, and praying wheels around the stupa. Similarly, the temple of Hariti, prayer flags, and chortens of Boudhanath give the religious touch.

The next locations are Kathmandu Durbar Square and Narayanhiti Palace. These are the ancient Royal Palaces that reflect Nepal’s history. Featuring some of the greatest royal halls, courtyards, and golden taps, these palaces are also home to ancient arts and artifacts.

Later, we will move to our hotel for our stay.

Location: Pokhara

Kathmandu Altitude: 820 Meters

Today, we will leave Kathmandu and drive to Pokhara, the nearest city to our destination, Saribung Peak. We will take a bus from Kathmandu and head towards Dhading as we leave the capital city. During the journey, we will traverse through the green forests, terraced fields, and streams.

The vibrant towns of Dhading and Tanahun District will give us pleasant vibes though the travel is long. Similarly, the road alongside Trishuli and Marsyangdi River will soothe our journey. In addition, the view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre once we reach Tanahun is breathtaking. Upon reaching Pokhara, we will head towards our hotel to stay overnight.

Pokhara Elevation: 820 Meters

Jomsom Elevation: 2713 Meters

Kagbeni Elevation: 2810 Meters

Elevation Gain (Pokhara to Jomsom): 1893 Meters

Elevation Gain (Jomsom to Kagbeni): 97 Meters

Duration: 3-4 Hours Trek

The fourth day of Saribung Peak Climbing starts with a flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. It takes around 20 minutes by plane to reach the beautiful town of Jomsom. The plane takes us above the green forests and terraced fields, Marsyangdi River, and Kali Gandaki River giving us awe-inspiring experiences.

Once we reach Jomsom, we will rest, take lunch, and prepare for the next trek to Kagbeni, which is around 3 to 4 hours long. We will leave Jomsom and head towards Ekle Bhatti as we walk alongside the Kali Gandaki River. From there, we will continue our hike through the river banks and cross the settlements at Pangling before reaching Kagbeni.

Kagbeni is a beautiful town located at 2810 meters above sea level. The Thakali community and their hospitality around this region are praiseworthy. Similarly, the Thakali cuisine, Marpha (Apple Alcohol), and traditional Nepali dishes are some of the must-taste entities of Kagbeni.

Kagbeni Elevation: 2810 Meters

Chele Elevation: 3050 Meters

Elevation Gain: 240 Meters

Duration: 5-6 Hours Trek

On the fifth day of the Saribung Peak Climbing Expedition, we will leave Kagbeni behind and set our journey to Chele. Today, we will elevate around 240 meters from Kagbeni to reach Chele. And it takes around 5 to 6 hours in total.

We will catch a trail alongside the banks of Kali Gandaki River and Kalobhir. From there, we will trek for a few hours to reach Tangbe. During the trek, we will have a perfect view of fast flowing Kali Gandaki River, aligned with the beauty of snow-capped peaks, such as Mt. Jumolhari, Jichu Drake, and more.

From Tangbe, we commence our hike to Chhusang, which should take a few hours. Chhusang is an ancient Buddhist settlement with several Tibetan Monasteries. So encountering culturally rich Gompas, mani walls, prayer flags, and chortens are no strange. From Chhusang, we will finally reach Chele in the next couple of hours. We will accommodate at a tea house in Chele Village.

Chele Elevation: 3050 Meters

Geling Elevation: 3510 Meters

Elevation Gain: 460 Meters

From Chele, we must take the trail from the left side of Mustang Khola to continue our journey to Geling. We will traverse several settlements like Ghyakar and Samar, providing insights into Tibetan Buddhism. Similarly, the views of Dajori La and Phalkang are awe-inspiring resources of our hike.

We will commence our trek alongside the Mustang Khola and reach Syangbochen. In between, there is a famous cave, Chungsi Cave, which we will visit if we get spare time. Syangbochen is a Buddhist settlement in the Upper Mustang region. We can visit Syangbochen Monastery and learn about Buddhism in the region. From Syangbochen, it only takes around an hour to reach Geling at 3510 meters above sea level.

Geling Elevation: 3510 Meters

Tsarang Elevation: 3620 Meters

Elevation Gain: 110 Meters

On the seventh day, we will begin our trek from Geling Village and leave for Tsarang. We will pass across Chunggar Monastery first and pass across Nyi La Pass at 4010 meters above sea level. From there, we will trek to Ghami via Ghami La Pass for another few hours. As we climb uphill from Ghami, we can see the magnificent views of the Annapurna Mountain Ranges and Dhaulagiri peaks peeking at us throughout the trail.

We will hike through the remote and rugged trails to Tsarang at 3620 meters by crossing Tsarang La and Dhamkar. Tonight, we will stay at a tea house.

Tsarang Elevation: 3620 Meters

Lo-Manthang Elevation: 3730 Meters

Elevation Gain: 110 Meters

From Tsarang, we will continue our trek through the rocky and rugged trail. First, we cross a suspension bridge above Tsarang Khola and reach Dhila Pass at 3950 meters above sea level. Though the hike is physically challenging due to the unbeaten and rocky terrains, the views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Mountain Ranges will surely give us extra energy.

From Dhi La Pass, we will head towards Sungda Chorten. From there, we will traverse the barren lands of mixed vegetation to Lo La Pass at 3950 meters. From Lo La Pass, it is only around one hour of a trek to reach Lo-Manthang, where we will stay overnight at a tea house.

After successfully elevating over 3730 meters above sea level and reaching Lo Manthang, it is finally time to explore Upper Mustang. Also, acclimatization is essential, so we will take enough rest, hydrate, and take nutritious food to retain energy.

In the afternoon, we will explore the perks of the Upper Mustang region, including monasteries like Jhampa, Thupchen, and Chhoeda. Lo-Manthang, also considered the capital of the Forbidden Kingdom of Mustang, is rich in ancient history, culture, and tradition. We can see many walled cities, arts, artifacts, and diverse cultures around the region.

After a detailed exploration of Upper Mustang, we will return to Lo-Manthang to stay.

Lo-Manthang Elevation: 3730 Meters

Yara Elevation: 3650 Meters

Elevation Loss: 80 Meters

The tenth day of Saribung Peak Climbing brings the vibrant settlement of Yara to us. We will embark on a 6 to 7 hours long hike from Lo-Manthang to reach Yara Village. As we hike from Lo-Manthang, we will first reach Dhi village, from where the trail stretches downhill to a small stream.

Throughout the journey, we will pass across several wild caves in the high stone walls of the trail. It takes a few hours to reach Yara from Dhi Village. As we reach Yara Village, we will accommodate a tea house.

Yara Elevation: 3650 Meters

Luri Gompa Elevation: 4000 meters

Elevation Gain: 550 Meters

Today, we will briefly hike from Yara Village to Luri Gompa at 4000 meters. Since we will be reaching over 4000 meters, we must prepare with the safety measures and gear to stay out of altitude sickness and its danger.

The trail is rugged and rocky, which inclines at most points, so having a pair of sturdy hiking boots and physical fitness is widely appreciated. There are two major monasteries around the Luri region. The first is Luri Gompa, located below the Luri Cave Monastery. After exploring the first gompa, we will ascend uphill through the Luri Cave Monastery and explore the second one.

Both Gompas carry a great significance of Buddhism in the region. They were built in the 15th century, and the inscriptions of the images and statues of Protectors and deities run all around the walls of these gompas. Tonight we will stay at a gompa.

Luri Gompa Elevation: 4000 meters

Ghuma Tanthi Elevation: 4600 Meters

Elevation Gain: 600 Meters

First, we will catch a trail that descends through a gorge and opens to Ghuma Tanthi at 4600 meters. Make sure you have buckled up with hiking boots and other essential gear.

We will proceed with our journey from Luri Gompa and reach Lhetak first. The trail is rocky and rugged, so this trek phase’s physical demand is high. Throughout the trek, we will have views of Mount Dhaulagiri and other peaks from its ranges. As we hike uphill through the stretched pathways, we will reach Ghuma Tanthi at 4600 meters. Ghuma Tanthi is a shelter used by many trekkers (especially Buddhist pilgrims), who visit Damodar Kunda Lakes in this region.

Ghuma Tanthi Elevation: 4600 Meters

Namta Khola Elevation: 4890 meters

Elevation Gain: 290 Meters

Today, we must cross a high altitude pass, Kyumu La Pass, at 5300 meters above sea level to reach Namta Khola at 4890 meters. This is one of the longest and most strenuous hikes in the Saribung Peak Climbing Expedition. First, we will climb through the pass, enjoying the views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Mountain ranges. From there, we will descend to Parche Khola and elevate the altitude via hiking to another pass, Batsyak La Pass, at 5450 meters.

The trail stretches to French Camp at 4950 meters before reaching Damodar Kunda, one of the holiest places for Buddhist Devotees. We will reach Namta Khola after a few hours of trekking from there.

Namta Khola Elevation: 4890 meters

Saribung Base Camp Elevation: 4950 Meters

Elevation Gain: 90 Meters

From Namta Khola, our trek continues to Bhrikuti Base Camp and Japanese Base Camp. The alpine climate will be a challenge for us, so we have to be more adaptive to the changing climate in this area. From there, we will traverse through Khumjungar Glacier, which we will follow until we reach the base camp of Saribung Himal.

The duration of this trek is around 6 to 7 hours. Most of the time, we will be traversing across the Tibetan Plateau. We will have excellent views of Saribung Himal, Sano Bhrikuti Peak, Bhrikuti Peak, Sano Kailash Peak, and many more. We will set up a tent for staying overnight at Saribung Base Camp.

We have already been at 4950 meters above sea level. And this is the elevation where altitude sicknesses like AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), HACE (High Altitude Celebral Edema), and HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) are prone. So, strict preparation is required, and acclimatization falls under it.

While we acclimate at Saribung Base Camp, we will undergo altitude training, gradual ascent and descent, hydration, nutrition, and enough rest. All these factors are equally important to acclimatize and retain energy.

Saribung Base Camp Elevation: 4950 Meters

High Camp I Elevation: 6,042 Meters

Elevation Gain: 1092 Meters

Today is the starting day of Saribung Peak Climbing from the base camp. Our main motive will be reaching the High Camp I of the peak. But going through the weather forecast is essential since weather can be unpredictable in this region and heavily impact our expedition.

We will slowly ascent to High Camp I at 6042 meters from Saribung Base Camp. Climbing through the blue ice and snowy landscapes needs technical mountaineering skills. Make sure you use your climbing ropes, axes, and crampons wisely. The guides will help us throughout the climb as well.

High Camp I Elevation: 6,042 Meters

Saribung Peak Elevation: 6238 Meters

Elevation Gain: 196 Meters

Today, we will complete the mission of this expedition. We will successfully reach the top of Saribung Peak at 6328 meters above sea level and return to the base camp for an overnight stay. But before making the final summit push, we must consider our crews’ weather conditions and physical fitness. We will climb alongside professional guides early morning and head uphill through the icy routes and snowy landscapes.

The professional guides will instruct us about technical climbing in Saribung, and after a few hours, we will successfully reach the summit. From the summit, we can have views of Bhrikuti, Sano Bhrikuti, Sano Kailash, Annapurna ranges, and other mountain peaks.

After successfully scaling Saribung Peak, we will stay overnight at the base camp.

Saribung Base Camp Elevation: 4950 Meters

Nagoru Elevation: 4400 Meters

Elevation Loss: 550 Meters

From today onwards, we will start our return journey after the successful climb on Saribung Peak. We will descend to Nagoru at 4400 meters above sea level from the base camp, which should take around 4 to 5 hours of hiking. We will follow the trails alongside the Layju Khola, which takes us to Nagoru. No settlements between Base Camp and Nagoru exist, so we must descend directly to the destination.

First, we will traverse through a high-altitude pass, Saribung Pass, at 6020 meters. From here, we can have picturesque views of Saribung Himal. We will descend for a few hours to finally reach Nagoru.

Nagoru Elevation: 4400 Meters

Phu Gaun Elevation: 4080 Meters

Elevation Loss: 320 Meters

After leaving Nagoru behind, we will trek to Phu Valley in the Manaslu Region. We will first head towards the downhill trail that follows the Nayju Khola on the right side. We will hike through the rocky and sandy routes to reach Phu Gaun, which will be physically challenging. Similarly, altitude sickness might affect the journey badly, so prepare yourself best.

After around 4 to 5 hours of walking, we will finally reach Phu Gaun. Phu Gaun is an ancient village which is believed to be around 800 years old. An ancient Tibetan Monastery, Tashi Lakhang Monastery, was built by Karmapa Rinpoche. Tonight, we will stay at a tea house in Phu Gaun.

Phu Gaun Elevation: 4080 Meters

Meta Elevation: 3560 Meters

Elevation Loss: 520 Meters

From Phu Gaun, we will descend to Meta Village, which takes around 5 to 6 hours. We will leave Phu Gaun early in the morning and commence on a remote downhill trekking alongside Phu Khola on the right side. First, the trail takes us to Kyang Village, where we can rest and have lunch. From there, we have to continue our descent to Chyakhu and Nar Phedi, following the left side of Phu Khola. The views of the Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri Ranges will always be in front of our eyes throughout the journey. Similarly, the green valleys and forests deep down the hill always call you more than ever.

From Nar Phedi, we will head straight through the downhill path to reach Meta Village. There is an ancient monastery and big chorten on the route as well.

Meta Elevation: 3560 Meters

Koto Elevation: 2600 Meters

Elevation Loss: 960 Meters

Today, we will commence a journey to Koto from Meta village. Today’s hike lasts 6 to 7 hours, and we will descend around 960 meters. We will start our hike by crossing Singenge Dharmasala. After that, we will pass through a huge waterfall and follow the trail alongside Naar Khola before reaching Hulaki Odar.

We will cross the suspension bridge over Naar Khola and explore Chhongche Caves. As we hike downhill, we will reach Chhauchha, where we must cross a wooden bridge. From there, we will reach Nar Phu Khola Campsite before reaching Koto.

Koto Elevation: 2600 Meters

Dharapani Elevation: 1860 Meters

Elevation Loss: 740 Meters

Trek from Koto to Dharapani takes around 5-6 hours. We will first hike through the settlement at Thanchowk. After traversing the Buddhist settlements, we will cross Timang, Danakyu, and Bagarchaap villages. The trek is physically challenging since the trail is rugged and downhill.

From Bagarchaap, we will hike to Thache, where there is an ancient Buddhist Monastery. As we leave Thache, enjoying the views of the Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri ranges, we will reach Thoche in an hour. From Thoche, it takes around a couple of hours to reach Dharapani, where we will stay overnight at a tea house.

Today, we will set on a long drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu, which takes around 7 to 8 hours. We will follow the off-road from Dharapani, which stretches to Chamje, Bahundanda, Bhulbhule, Simalchaur, and Besi Sahar in Lamjung District. We will reach Besi Sahar from Dharapani in around 3 to 4 hours. We can rest and have lunch at Besi Sahar.

We will then continue our drive to Kathmandu from Besi Sahar. We will traverse through Dumre, the junction of Pokhara and Kathmandu. We will enjoy the green fields, streams, waterfalls, and traditional villages in Dhading district before we make it to Kathmandu Valley. Upon arriving in Kathmandu, we will move to a hotel for an overnight stay.

Today is a free day in Kathmandu. We can explore the inner city and learn more about its history and culture. In addition, we can go for shopping and refreshments around the city.

Today is our last day in Nepal. We will reach Tribhuvan International Airport for departure. Staff from a trekking agency will escort us to the airport, where we will catch a flight to our home country.

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