Saribung Pass Trek with Saribung Peak Climbing 21 Days Best itinerary

Highlights of Saribung Pass Trek with Saribung Peak Climbing

Hike along the lonely route from Mustang to Phu
Exciting crossing of the 6000-meter-high Seribung La pass
Ascent of Seribung Peak
Admiration of the mighty peaks including Peri Himal, Chhib Himal, Bhrikuti Himal, Gyajukhang Peak, Kharsang Peak, Manaslu, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri and Himlung Himal
Exhilarating crossing of Taklam La Pass (3,624m), Dajori La Pass (3,740m), Bhena La Pass (3,838m), and Syangboche La Pass (3,850m)
Observation of ancient Tibetan culture in Mustang and Phu
Exploration of the royal residence in Lo Manthang
Unforgettable flight from Pokhara to Jomsom

Trip Overview

Saribung Peak Climbing with Saribung Pass Trek is one of those rare tour expeditions in the world that offer you fascinating landscapes, desert-like gorges, the oldest Tibetan culture, endless expanses, and the magnificent Himalayan views all in one trip. Above all, this tour will take you on a joyful ride towards the eternal spiritual inner peace that you have been longing for a while.

Undoubtedly, the Saribung peak climbing is an exciting journey that will lead you along the old caravan routes through the former kingdom of Mustang to one of the great 6000 m high peaks of Saribung turning this tour into something special for every enthusiastic hiker.

Behind the high mountains in the shadow of the Nilgiri massif and the Annapurna lies the Saribung Peak at an altitude of 6346 m merging with the Damodar Himalaya range in the Upper Mustang trail. It wasn’t until 2006 that foreign trekkers could finally conquer the beautiful Saribung Peak, which had previously been out of their reach.

The summit offers the priceless vistas of Peri Himal, Chhib Himal, Bhrikuti Himal, Gyajukhang Peak, Kharsang Peak, Manaslu, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri and Himlung Himal.

Adding more thrill to our journey, we will triumph over the challenging Taklam La Pass (3,624m), Dajori La Pass (3,740m), Bhena La (3,838m), and Syangboche La (3,850m) and conquer the prominent Saribung Pass (6020m).

Additionally, we will explore the hidden gems of the Upper Mustang trail, witnessing the Lhopas, Gurungs, Lamas, Thakali, and Ghales as they continue their centuries-old traditions and customs in their everyday lives.

After successfully reaching the summit of Saribung and finishing the Saribung pass trek, we head towards the Nar Phu Valley in the Manang district. This secluded valley, resembling Upper Mustang in culture and beliefs, is a hidden paradise waiting to be explored.

Are you prepared to explore a region where time appears to have frozen in place? Then come along on our Saribung pass trek with Saribung Peak climbing today!

How does our journey begin?

After a drive to Pokhara and a domestic flight to Jomsom, we will reach Kagbeni in the upper Kali Gandaki. We will then trek along the caravan route passing small villages, Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, and long Mani walls and admiring the ice-armored Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. After a detailed tour of the medieval-looking capital, Lo Manthang, we will reach the sacred Luri cave Monastery.

We will then advance towards Saribung Base Camp and climb the Saribung Peak. Then we will travel through absolutely pristine Himalayan high valleys with hidden settlements to the upper Marshyangdi valley, where we will come across the famous Annapurna circuit. We will then make our return journey from Koto to Kathmandu via Dharapani and Besisahar.

Saribung Pass Trek with Saribung Peak Climbing Itinerary

Day 01: Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus

After a restful breakfast in the enchanting Kathmandu, we will now depart from the capital in a comfortable tourist bus towards another paradise named Pokhara.

After leaving Kathmandu, we will head west and drive through the low hills of the southern Himalayas on a scenic route along the Prithvi Highway. Along the route, the untamed waters of Trishuli and Marshyangdi will hail us to the route to Pokhara. The Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manaslu, and Fishtail will occasionally play peek-a-boo with us.

After a long drive, we will rest in our hotel room. The evening is free for you to explore Pokhara on your own.

Duration

6 hours

Max Altitude

822 m

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Day 02: Fly to Jomsom and trek to Kagbeni

Early morning, we will fly into the mountains, between the two eight-thousand meters high Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, and follow the Kali Gandaki River, landing shortly afterward at Jomsom Airport.

Here we will meet our hard-working team. Then, we will hike comfortably upstream to Kagbeni. Following the wild Kali Gandaki river, we will walk leisurely for about three hours and reach the beautiful town nestled at the Sangam of Kali Gandaki and Jhong Khola.

The medieval-looking border village offers incredible views of Tilicho Peak and Dhaulagiri.

Duration

30 minutes (flight) / 3-4 hours

Max Altitude

2850m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 03: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele

Continuing with our hike, we will depart from Kagbeni and once again follow the Kali Gandaki River. Walking on its left shore, we will reach the exit of Kagbeni where the checkpoint will examine our permits and documents.

After completing the formalities, our path will once again take us along the Kali Gandaki River traversing the charming settlements of Tangbe, and Chhusang. The River is now locally called Mustang Khola signifying we are now in the forbidden Kingdom of Mustang.

Crossing the river, the beautiful path decorated with chortens and Mani Walls now advances towards Chele- our resting village for the night.

Duration

5-6 hrs

Max Altitude

3030m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 04: Trek from Chele to Ghiling

After a peaceful rest, we will now hike along the trail that continues steadily uphill towards the north, with the Kali Gandaki River rushing deep in the valley. At Ghyakar, we will turn east and cross the Taklam La Pass (3,624m) and Dajori La Pass (3,740 m) and descend to Samar Village.

Enjoying the remarkable spectacle of Tilicho, Damodar Danda, and Yakawakang, we will then tackle two other Passes of Bhena La (3838 m), and Syangbocha La (3,850 m). After we descend from the Pass, we will arrive at Shayangbochen which offers a stunning view of Nilgiri. We will stop here for a while to eat our lunch, then we will march to reach Ghiling.

Duration

6-7 hours

Max Altitude

3440m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 05: Trek from Ghiling to Charang

First, we will hike above the Kali Gandaki River on a beautiful panoramic path to the small Mustang village of Ghami 3,520 m, with an old gate chorten and an old gompa. On the way, we will ascend and descend the pass of Nya La (4020 m). From the Pass, we can enjoy the dream panorama of the surrounding Mustang region, Annapurna and Nilgiri.

After a lunch break at Ghami, we will cross a small tributary by bridge and then hike along Mustang’s longest Mani walls (prayer walls) related to Guru Padmasambhava. The area here is known for blue sheep and the very shy snow leopards.

The trail now leads us towards the pass of Tsarang La at 3870 m. After descending from this Pass, we will reach the settlement of Dhakmar and reach Charang/Tsarang.

Duration

6-7 hours

Max Altitude

3490m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 06: Trek from Tsarang to Lo-Manthang

Early morning, we must take a short detour to the Ghar Monastery. The monastery is believed to have been founded in the 8th century by Guru Padmasambhava. In the monastery, we can marvel at the statues, thankas, Buddha paintings, and much more.

Then proceeding from the monastery, we will cross the Charang Khola over a steel bridge and hike along a relatively easy trail captivated by the amazing vistas of Tilicho, Bhrikuti, Nilgiri, and Annapurna 1.

The gradually rising path will now take us to the lone Sungda Chorten. About 45 minutes before we reach Lo Manthang, we will ascend the 3950 m high Lo La Pass. The top offers a vast view of the Mustang region with its white houses, red monasteries, and barren cliffs.

After we climb down from the Pass, we will march forward to cross a stream and arrive at Lo Manthang, the old royal city with its narrow streets.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

3740m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 07: Acclimatization Day

Today we will visit the 600-year-old capital of Mustang. The narrow streets, mighty walls of the houses, and the city wall will make you feel like you have been transported back to the Middle Ages.

We will visit the royal palace, gompas, and the houses of the Lhopas with their flat roofs. We can also take a tour of the northern part of Lo Manthang, where we will visit the former residential caves of the Jhongu Cave and the king’s summer palace in Thing-gar.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 08: Trek from Lo-Manthang to Yara

Today, our trail continues downhill, the landscape becomes more and more lush with flora and more vibrant with fauna. With every step into lower altitudes, the temperatures become milder and more pleasant.

The path now leads through the Naar-Phu Khola gorge and we will see small and large waterfalls along the way. Finally, we will reach the Marshyangdi-Nadi valley and will be on the famous Annapurna circuit.

The route now continues clockwise to Koto where at the foot of the mighty Annapurna group, a great adventure in one of the most remote parts of the Himalayas comes to an end.

Duration

6-7 hours

Max Altitude

2600m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 20: Trek to Dharapani

We will tackle our last day of trekking with mixed feelings. We have experienced many exciting things over the last few days and like to think back on them as we descend to Timang village enjoying the spectacular view of the Lamjung Himal 6983 m.

Then the downhill path will lead us to Danakyu village where we will eat our lunch. Proceeding forward, we will cross one more village of Bagarchhap through the deep jungle of pine and fir before reaching Dharapani.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

1860m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 21: Drive From Dharapani to Kathmandu via Besisahar

We will drive at a leisurely pace towards Besisahar on a bumpy, sometimes adventurous road. The road was built to connect Manang and the other villages in the Marshyangdi Valley to the Nepalese road network. Moving on, we will cross the villages of Syanje and Bhulbhule before we enter the familiar Prithvi Highway that will take us back to the capital.

Enjoy the first real shower and celebrate the success of your tour with our team.

Duration

7-8 hours

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Includes & Excludes

What is included?

Airport pick up / drop off (by private Car and transfer to hotel)
Accommodation 3* star hotel twin sharing room ( 2 nights in Kathmandu with breakfast)
Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus.
Domestic flight transportation from Pokhara to Jomsom.
From Dharapani to Kathmandu by private jeep/bus.
All meals during the trekking (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and tea)
Accommodations, local tea house twin sharing room.
Upper Mustang special permit (restricted area)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Tourist Information Management System (TIMS)
Sarebung Peak Climbing Permit
Provides all tent & kitchen, cooking things, foods, and drinks at the base camp / high camp.
Down jackets, duffel bags, sleeping bags, and trekking poles are provided by Hill Sherpa Trekking but should be returned after the trek (if you need them).
Provides all climbing gear ropes, snow bars, ice screws, and carabineers.
Government licensed holder, good speaking English, great experience guide.
All staff’s wages, food, drinks, accommodations, transportation, and Insurance.
One strong sherpa helper for carrying your baggage & porter for 2 trekkers.
Hill Sherpa Trekking first aid Kit carrying by guide.
Water purification tablets for tap water.
Helicopter service is covered by your travel insurance incase if Emergency.
All government taxes and official expenses & ground transportation.
Climbing Guide Will Be Managed According To Group Size.
Oxy meter for checking pulse, level (AMS) Acute Mountain Sickness.
Hill Sherpa Trekking provides a complementary sunblock Cap.
Trip Certificate Provides by Hill Sherpa Trekking.

What is excluded?

International airfare tickets.
Nepal entry visa fee, visa obtains on arrival at the international airport in Kathmandu.
Additional accommodations, food, and drinks in Kathmandu if stay extra day.
Your personal medical & travel insurance.
Desserts, sweet items like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding, any extra expenses.
Excess baggage luggage weight is 15 kg maximum.
During the trek hot showers, mobile, camera, power bank any batteries charging, Wi-Fi internet.
Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fees $30 USD per person.
Tips for guide & poters.
Your personal climbing gear and first aid kit.
Tips for guide & porters, (tips is most expected)

Note:

We also operate private trips.

Trip Information of Saribung Pass Trek with Saribung Peak Climbing

Best Time to Saribung Peak Climbing

The Saribung Pass trek lies in the Upper Mustang region in the north behind the main ridge of the Himalayas. The monsoon clouds that cause warm and humid weather in the other valleys of Nepal therefore rarely reach the Mustang region. This is why a continental and dry mountain climate prevails here resembling the Tibetan atmosphere.

Therefore, the best time for the Saribung Pass trek with Saribung Peak climbing is from May, June, July, August, and September to early October. Temperature during these months can be 15 to 25° Celsius with great visibility creating a very good trekking condition. Due to the little light rain in summer, the paths are free of dust with excellent landscape. The summit and the Pass however remain covered with snow and eternal ice.

We do not suggest the winter months of December, January, and February for the Saribung Peak climbing due to harsh weather, and strong winds. In addition, the lodges en route will be closed when the locals travel lowlands to seek shelter from the chilling weather.

Elevation and distance

The stunning yet intimidating Saribung Peak and Pass is located in the Upper Mustang and covers a distance of around 125 km. The peak is situated 920 km from Kathmandu, with Upper Mustang being 462 km from the capital, 220 km from Pokhara, and 59 km from Jomsom.

We will experience the greatest elevation gain when we push the summit of Saribung standing at 6346m. Our highest overnight point will be at Camp I, located at an altitude of 5730m. It will take us a total of three weeks to successfully complete this trekking and climbing journey to Saribung Peak.

Maximum/Minimum walk per day

Our 21-day Salibung Peak climbing program includes 19 days of trekking adventure that involves hiking through dense jungles, crossing rivers, waterfalls, and gorges. As we move forward, we will transition to a dry, barren landscape similar to Tibet. Therefore, each day, we will be walking from 5 to 7 hours on an average per day traversing a distance of 15 to 20 km.

However, the easiest walk will be on the second day when we fly to Jomsom and trek to Kagbeni in just 3 hours. On day 9, we will hike from Yara to Luri Cave Monastery, which, although short, involves a challenging steep ascent.

The most demanding and longest walk will be on summit day when we climb from Camp I to the summit and then return to Sarlibung Base Camp, totaling 9 hours of walking.

Difficulty and Acclimatization

The Saribung Pass trek with the Saribung Peak climbing expedition is a demanding and long trekking tour with overnight stays in lodges and tent camps. Although physically demanding, the Saribung Peak climbing is hardly difficult in terms of mountaineering. Mostly, the climbing of the peak can be carried out only using crampons and ropes so technically, the Saribung Peak is easy. So if you are an experienced hiker, then it will be an easy tour for you.

However, you mustn’t forget that this tour will take you through very dry and sparsely populated areas up into the high mountains and to pass heights of above 6,000 meters. During the trek, you will reach a maximum altitude of over 5,000 meters several times; the highest altitude you will sleep at is around 5,700 meters at Camp I which puts additional strain on your body.

For the high success to the peak, we have planned our tour in such a way that you can acclimatize to the altitude well before you attack the summit. With two rest days on day 7 at Lo Manthang and day 13 at the Saribung Base Camp, you will have enough time to get ready to push the summit without any physical discomfort.

Can a beginner trek to Saribung Peak Climbing?

Just like the other magnificent 6000 m peaks in Nepal such as Mera Peak, Island Peak, and Dhampus Peak, Saribung Peak is an ideal choice for beginner trekkers. You only need basic mountaineering skills to conquer its summit. Although it may not be as well-known among international trekkers and climbers, those who have conquered Saribung Peak consider it as one of their favorite peaks.

Additionally, this trek will also serve as a valuable experience for future expeditions to conquer the majestic seven-thousand-meter peaks like Baruntse, Nuptse, or Himlung.

However, you must be able to climb glaciers and flanks with an incline of up to 35 degrees safely using crampons. Our climbing guide will be with you on the mountain keeping an eye on you. He will also guide you at the steep sections and train you on using the climbing gear when staying at Base Camp and High Camp.

Please note that this tour is a high-altitude trek with daily stages of 5 to 7 hours, therefore you must have head for heights in places. It is an expedition-style trek that takes you into remote areas and requires you to be extremely flexible and adaptable. If you are in good shape, the daily stages of long hours are easily manageable.

Preparation and training for Saribung Peak Climbing

Before you start your Saribung Pass trek with the Saribung Peak climbing trip, we recommend that you do regular, long-term endurance exercises such as mountain hiking, cycling, running, squatting, push-ups, pull-ups, and climbing the stairs. If possible, stay in a high-altitude hut (around 3000 m) with hikes/tours shortly before you leave.

We also advise you to familiarize yourself with the Tibetan atmosphere and make sure you are free of infections or any ailments. And please make up your mind for the camping experience and be ready to give up your home comfort for a few days.

Alternate Route

As we make our way towards the Saribung Pass and Peak via the Upper Mustang trek route, there are several choices you can consider adding to your journey depending on your fitness level and interests. Many trekkers on this route also include a visit to the sacred Damodar Kunda. To do so, you can trek from Ghumathanti to Damodar Lake from where you can then approach the Saribung Base Camp.

Likewise, if you don’t want to go up the mountain, you can instead go on short excursions in the area of the camp until the summit aspirants return.

Altitude Sickness

We don’t want our tour members to suffer from any kind of physical discomfort during the tour. Therefore, we make sure each of our participants gives their bodies enough time to adapt to the altitude. We will walk at a sensible, well-coordinated pace. We will take enough rest breaks.

However, the risk of altitude sickness cannot be ruled out in our Saribung Pass trek. Not all but some may go through mild headaches, drowsiness, sleep loss, appetite loss, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and breathing difficulty.

If so, our competent and well-trained guide will be at your side. Observing your condition, he may give you Diamox which will reduce these conditions within a few hours. Or, he may postpone your trek for a few hours or a day or two and take you to lower heights so you feel healthy again.

Saribung Peak Climbing Transportation, Meals and Drink

We will take care of your transportation needs with our airport pick-up and drop-off services, complete with transfers to your hotel. We also offer domestic air trips from Pokhara to Jomsom, a comfortable drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara on a deluxe tourist bus, and private transport from Dharapani to Kathmandu.

In terms of meals and accommodation, we provide a two-night stay at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast included. Throughout the trek, you will sleep in teahouses or lodges which will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner with tea and fresh fruits in the evening. We also offer tents, kitchen supplies, dining facilities, and mattresses during your camping stay for 8 days from Luri Cave Monastery till we reach Phu Gaon.

You can try the local cuisine of Dhindo, Gundruk, Syabhale, Dal Vat, Chowmen, and Momos when you are on a trek. Our Kitchen team will ensure you eat healthy and will also pack lunch for you when needed.

Communication, Gadgets charging, and Internet/wifi

For communication, you can use NTC or NCELL mobile networks that offer good mobile network coverage in most of the villages of the Upper Mustang. However, the connection may not be reliable when you venture into the dense forest, and walk over snowy and icy terrain towards the base camps. We provide satellite phones at urgent times.

The mountain lodges en route have a steady supply of electricity so you can charge your gadgets for a small fee. Please carry fully charged and spare batteries when trekking to base camps.

As for WIFI, in Kathmandu, and Jomsom, you can enjoy a good WIFI connection most of the time free of cost. However, in Chele, Shyangbochen, and Ghame, the WIFI connection can be sporadic. During camping at Base Camp and High Camp, internet connectivity is not available.

Permits of Saribung Peak Climbing

ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit), a Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang, Nar Phu Valley Permit, and a climbing permit for Saribung Peak are required for our Saribung pass trek with Saribung Peak climbing expedition. Our team will organize all the necessary permits on your behalf.

Equipment List

General Information

Company provides feather sleeping bag but should be refund after the trek.
Company provide Feather down Jacket but should be refund after the trek.
Hill Sherpa Trekking provides duffle bag during the trek but should be refund after the trek.
Mostly recommend for morning and evening, The windproof and waterproof thin layered jacket above 3450m.
Mostly recommend for Daypack bag 35-45 ltr.
Headlamp & extra batteries during the trek

Daily Use Essentials

A Sun Black Cap & Fleece hat
Sunglasses 100% snow uv protection
A muffle (full cover mask)
Sunscreen (30+ to 60 SPF depends on age)
A pair of thin & warm gloves
A pair Trekking poles
Water bottle & filter
Water purified tablets
lips guard

Upper Body Essentials

Warm hat
A pair of t-shirts
Thermal tops
Sports bras for ladies
windproof & fleece jacket
waterproof jacket

All Lower Body

waterproof trouser
warmer & fleece trouser
A pair of Comfortable trekking pants
Extra comfortable sport pants
A pair of sport shoe
Thermal underwear
A pair of comfortable waterproof trekking boots
Pair of light sandals
Some Thick (woolen) socks
Sock liners
Light shoes

Essential Climbing Gears

Helmet
Harness
Ascender
Descender
Carabiners 4 locks, 2 unlocks
Tape Celling – 120 cm
Alpine Boot good condition & fit side
Crampon good condition for alpine boot
Ice-axe Normal

Personal Medical and First Aid Kits

Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for AMS)
Adhesive bandages and pocket masks
Non-stick pad W/ Adhesive
ibuprofen & paracetamol tablets IP
Some Assorted adhesive bandages
Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
Blister treatment cream or similar
Insect / anti-itch ointment
Moves incase sprain any body
pain-relief medication
Sinex, & Eye Drops etc.
Gauze sponge
Saline solution

(Note: first aid kits & medicine will carrying with our company’s guide during the trekking However, we recommend you to bring your personal first-aid kit)

Important Things

passport size photos with original passport copy
Flight details (to pick you up & transfer to hotel)

Extra Essential Things

Energy gel or dry foods (that’s your desire)
Power bank is most important for backup device (if you have)
Camera, chargers, extra batteries, memory card)
Most important for ladies essentials things (if you are ladies)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip a climb to Saribung Peak?

Yes, if you think you are not ready to climb the Peak yet, you can explore around the Base Camp or High camp till the aspirant climbers return from their journey.

There are so many high Passes that have to be crossed during this trek, can I undertake the Saribung Pass trek?

Yes, you can. The Passes you have to overcome are not above 4000 m except for Saribung Pass which reaches 6000 m altitude. But the climb to the Pass is relatively easy over the snowy path with no crevasses and steep sections. Climbing the Saribung Peak on the other hand is also a technically easy peak. So if you are in excellent health and physical condition, you can easily complete this tour.

Why is the Saribung Peak not as famous as other 6000 m peaks in Nepal?

First, the peak has been open to climbing only since 2006. The region where it is located is pretty remote with a lack of basic infrastructure. Many days have to be spent in tents. It also lacks the proper publicity it deserves like other peaks in Nepal. However, we have organized the Saribung Peak climbing for many years and each participant was content with their journey.