Damodar Kunda and Upper Mustang Trek: Damodar Kunda Trek 21 Days

                                                    
                                                    destination
                                                    Annapurna
                                                
                                                    duration
                                                    17 Days
                                                
                                                    grade
                                                    High Advance
                                                
                                                    start/end point
                                                    Kathmandu/Kathmandu
                                                
                                                    region
                                                    Annapurna
                                                
                                                    max altitude
                                                    4890m
                                                
                                                    group size
                                                    2-12
                                                
                                                    meal
                                                    All inclusive
                                                
                                                    activity
                                                    5-6 Hrs
                                                
                                                    accommodation
                                                    Tent Camp /Tea house
                                                
                                                    season
                                                    Summer-spring

DAMODAR KUNDA TREK

A once in a lifetime opportunity to wash away your sins in the holy Hindu place of worship - Damodar Kunda (lake at 4890m) situated north of the Annapurna Range on the Tibetan plateau in the upper Mustang region.

The high attitude of Damodar Kunda (5400m) is cold and windy, but on the other hand, it guarantees some of the best views of the surrounding snow-covered Himalayan Mountains. Damodar Kunda is the source of the Kaligandaki River and flows all the way to India. According to Lord Krishna, anyone bathing in Damodar Kunda will be released from their sins.

From a vantage point just above Damodar Kunda, you will have spectacular views of the Tibetan plateau & Damodar Himal (mountain range) in the north and extraordinary views of Annapurna in the south. There are a total of 65 peaks in this mountain range including Damodar Himal, Bhrikuti Peak (6364m), and Muktinath Himal (6706m).

Damodar Kunda is in the Mustang region and is often referred to as the Ancient Kingdom of Lo in the Himalayas.

In August every year, there is a full moon festival for Buddhists and Hindus (Purnima Nepali) that would be great fun if your schedule allows. The ideal time to do this trek is between the months of April and September.

ITINERARY

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) Kathmandu (1350m) &transfer to hotel.

Sherpa Expedition & Trekking staff will be there to greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and take you to your hotel, followed by a briefing covering information, do’s and don’ts of your trek. Your safety and comfort are paramount.

Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Our journey begins with a 6-7 hour drive toward the Pokhara Valley and its beautiful Phewa Tal (lake) and then checking in to your hotel close to Phewa Tal. There is plenty to see and do along Lakeside with its many shops, bars and restaurants to choose from. From Pokhara there are breathtaking views of namely Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machapuchare, and other mountains in the Annapurna range. The alternative to driving is to fly to Pokhara, a short 35 minute flight.

Day 3 : Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720m), & trek to Kagbeni (2,800m) Duration: 4-5 hours.

Today we fly from Pokhara to Jomson – a 20 – 25-minute flight scenic flight with views of the famous Kali Gandaki Gorge (world’s deepest), along with views of several colossal peaks” Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna Ranges and Machapuchare (Fishtail). After landing at Jomson we begin our trek heading to Kagbeni, about a 3-4 hour trek. Kagbeni is also the checkpoint where authorities will check your documents before you enter the restricted Upper Mustang region. Along the trail, we will have views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak. We will stay the night at Kagbeni.

Day 4 : Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,100m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Today we start early in order to avoid the high winds that develop later in the day. In the early morning light, we can see Nilgiri that is orange in color due to the sun’s reflection on it. We follow the east bank of the Kali Gandaki River until we enter the wide Chhusang Valley. After leaving Kagbeni we ascend giving us spectacular views of the village and Mt Nilgiri (7061m).The trail heads east towards more arid land common to the Mustang region. We soon reach the first significant village of Tangbe with its red and whitewashed houses on the opposite banks of the river and glorious views over the Kali Gandaki River. Perched high up the cliffs above the village are caves believed to have been home to the early inhabitants of this area. The trail then comes to Chele where we have views of the Himalayan Ranges. Tonight we stay at Chele.

Day 5 : Trek from Chele to Gheling (3,570m) Duration:5-6 hours.

Today we will trek for five to six hours before climbing the rugged hills and eventually come to a stone cairn at 3540m at which point we descend to the small village of Samar with its chortens (stupa - religious monuments) and other Buddhist structures. After leaving Samar we descend into a large canyon and then again ascend to a 3800m ridge before again descending to the remote Shyangmochen Village and then head to Geling Village where we stay the night. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 6 : Trek from Geling to Tsarang (3560m ) Duration: 6-7 hours.

From Geling, the trail climbs gently to the interesting pass on our trek NYILA and descends below the blue, gray and red cliffs. After crossing a steel bridge of the Tangmar Chu (river), we will arrive at a MANI (Prayer WALL) perhaps the longest and most spectacular stretch and main wall in Nepal. Climbing over another pass at 3600m the route makes a long gentle descent to Charang. The huge five €“story white Dzong and red Gompa is an interesting visit to observe collections of statues and Thankas as well as many large paintings of seated Buddha€™s.

Day 7 : Trek from Tsarang to Lo Manthang (3,840m ) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Today the trail is mostly uphill as we initially head to Lo-Gekar home of one of the oldest Tibetan monasteries in the world. Lo-Gekar Gompa is older than the Samye Gompa in Tibet. After visiting Lo Gekar we travel by horse to Lo-Manthang. The trail passes the ancient walled city of Lo-Manthang before descending and crossing a stream before reaching Lo-Manthang. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.

Day 8 : Explore around Lo-Manthang

Today we climb to Namgyal Gompa situated at the top of a peak and then proceed to Tingkhar north-west of Lo Manthang. It is a small village consisting of about 40 houses. We will visit the three stories Champa Lhakhang (God house,) the red Thugchen Gompa, Chyodi Gompa, and Raja's Palace. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.

Day 9 : Trek from Lo- Manthang to Yara (3,650m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

Today we start our five to six-hour trek by firstly heading down to Dhie Village. We then follow the river before arriving at Yara where we camp the night.

Day 10 : Trek from Yara to Ghuma Thanti (4,800m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Today we trek for six to seven hours, but firstly climb to Luri Cave Monastery and then cross the high altitude (5100m) pass before reaching Ghuma Thanti where we set up camp for the night.

Day 11 : Trek from Ghuma Thanti to Damodar Kunda (4,890m) Duration: 8-9 hours.

Ahead of us today is an eight to nine-hour that is undulating but gradually ascends to cross the 5600-meter pass before reaching Damodar Kunda. Tonight we will make camp at Damodar Kunda.

Day 12 : Explore the Damodar Kunda/Lake (4,890m)

We will spend the day around the lake where you will have an opportunity to bath in its sacred waters – if you can brave the cold! Tonight we will camp here.

Day 13 : Trek from Damodar Kunda to Ghuma Thanti (4,800m) Duration: 8-9 hours.

We have another long day ahead of us with an eight to nine-hour trek returning back over the 5600-meter pass and back to Ghuma Thanti. Along the trail, we will stop for lunch next to a small river. We will continue until reaching Ghuma Thanti where we camp for the night.

Day 14 : Trek from Ghuma Thanti to Yara (3,900m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Today is a trek of between six to seven hours heading back along the same trail, with some ups and downs, before reaching Yara Village where we will camp overnight.

Day 15 : Trek from Yara to Tangye (3,240m) Duration: 7-8 hrours.

We will set off early today on our seven to eight hour trek. At first we follow the trail down a steep hill until we reach Dechhyang Khola (river) that originates from Damodar Kunda. We will then ascend to the top of the pass and along the trail stop for some pre-prepared lunch before reaching a high plateau that we cross before coming to Tangye Village where we will make camp for the night.

Day 16 : Trek from Tangya to Tetang (3,040m) Duration: 8-9 hours.

Another long day is ahead of us as we follow the trail for eight to nine hours. Firstly we have to cross a suspension bridge and then we will follow the river before having a steep climb up the pass. Once we arrive at Paha we will stop for lunch and then continue crossing a number of small passes before reaching the top of the hill. At this point we descend through a windswept terrain until we reach Tetang Village where we will set up camp for the night.

Day 17 : Trek from Tetang to Muktinath (3,700m) Duration: 5-6 hours.

This morning we head off through the village passing the Mani walls and then climb up to a wide valley until we reach the plateau. We then ascend through a small pass at which point we have some amazing view of Muktinath. From here we descend to a small river and cross the suspension bridge before reaching Chhyongar Village and then Muktinath where we will set up camp overnight.

Day 18 : Trek Muktinath to Jomsom (2,720m) Duration: 5-6 hrours.

From Muktinath we pass through lush meadows, fruit trees and streams passing through Jharkot Village where we visit the ancient Sakyamuni Buddhist Monastery and a traditional medical center. .We will stop for lunch somewhere along the trail and then continue through the Kali Gandaki valley before reaching Jomsom. Prior to reaching Jomsom we can detour to the Bon Punt Monastery in Lubra, one of the few purely Bonpo villages in Nepal. Our trek today is about five to six hours. We will set up our camp at Jomson for the night.

Day 19 : Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (900m) Duration: 20 minutes flight.

Today is our last day as we head to the small airport terminal at Jomson where we take a short 15 to 20-minute flight to Pokhara. Once airborne you will have some amazing views of the Himalayas. This evening you can sit back and relax, enjoy and drink or two and look back on your amazing adventure through the amazing Annapurna Conservation Area – stroll along Lakeside. Other attractions in Pokhara are the World Peace Pagoda (clearly visible across Phewa Tal (lake), Bindabasini Temple, Phewa Lake, Matepani Buddhist Monastery, International Mountain Museum and Devi's Falls.

Day 20 : Drive from Pokhara to kathmandu (1,350m) Duration: 6-7 hours.

Today we head back on a 6 to 7 hour drive to Kathmandu with many fond memories of Nepal and its unique culture and geography. These memories will last a lifetime!

Day 21 : International departure & homeward bound.

Sherpa Expeditions & Trekking staff will transfer you to the airport for your final departure from Nepal. We hope that this epic trek will be firmly ingrained in your memory and will be enough to prompt you to consider your next trek with us!

SERVICES

Cost Includes

All ground transportation by private Car/Jeep including airport transfers.
Two nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
Two-night accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Pokhara
Both way flight from Pokhara to Jomsom and Jomsom to Pokhara including departure taxes
Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek
An experienced English-speaking (trekking guide), porter to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food, and lodging
Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bag, Sherpa Expedition, and Trekking duffel bag, and trekking map.
All necessary paperwork and permits (ACAP, Special trekking permit), please bring 2 passport size photos for permit
A comprehensive medical kit
All government and local taxes

Cost Excludes

Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary'
Personal Travel insurance
International airfare
Nepal entry visa: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (a multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.)
Cold drinks, water, snacks, and other personal expenses
Hot shower during the trek
Personal trekking equipment’s
Tips for trekking staff

EQUIPMENTS

The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.

General

All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
Daypack

Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear

A pair of half gloves
A warmer hat that covers the ears
Sunglasses
Neckwarmer
Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
Headlamp and an extra set of batteries

Hands

A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
Warmer shell gloves and liner

Upper Body

long sleeve t-shirts
Thermal tops
wool jacket or pullover
Sports bras for women and girls
Water and windproof shell jacket

Lower Body

Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
windproof and waterproof trousers
warmer trousers
Comfortable trekking pants
Extra casual sport pants

Footwear

A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
Pair of sandals
4-5 pairs of woolen socks
Sock liners
Light shoes and sneakers
First Aid Kits and Medicines
Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
Blister treatment cream or similar
Insect / anti-itch ointment
Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
Water purifying pills

(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)

Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek

4 passport size photos with original passport
Water bottle & filter
Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)

Extra things

Comfortable trekking poles
Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
Power bank and music players
Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)

GOOD TO KNOW

Accommodation

You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom at lower levels- until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities.

Meals during the trek

In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of these regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.

Transportation

We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek.

Physical fitness

This can be a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.