What is the best time to trek to Mustang-Phu?

Generally, the best time to trek to Mustang-Phu is during the autumn (September to October) and in spring (May to Mid-June) seasons. These months offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making the trekking experience more enjoyable.

Do I need a permit for trekking in Mustang and Phu?

Yes, trekking in Mustang and Phu requires obtaining special permits due to their restricted areas. You need to obtain Mustang Special Permit, ACAP permit and Naar Phu Permit.

What is the difficulty level of the Mustang to Phu trek?

The Mustang to Phu trek is considered as moderate challenging. It involves trekking through high altitude, rugged terrain, remote areas, which may pose challenging for some trekkers.

What are the accommodation options during the trek to Mstang to Phu?

The accommodation options during the trek to Mustang to Phu are basic lodges and camping trek. ( Mustang-Phu-Meta-Koto are teahouse trek and rest are camping trek)

Are there any altitude related risks during Mustang to Phu trek?

Yes, altitude-related risks such as altitude sickness can occur during the Mustang to Phu trek due to the high elevations reached along the route. It's essential to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated and ascend gradually.

Mustang to Phu Trek (Saribung Peak Climbing): A Journey Through the Hidden Mustang Himalaya

Embark on a thrilling journey through the remote Mustang Himalayan region, combining cultural exploration with high-altitude adventure. The Mustang to Phu Trek takes you through the ancient kingdom of Mustang Nepal, sacred lakes like Damodar Kunda, and the hidden Nar-Phu Valley. The highlight is the challenging ascent of Saribung Peak (6,328m), offering panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Damodar ranges. Ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a unique and off-the-beaten-path expedition in the heart of the Mustang Himalaya.

Arrival on
5th August,19th August, 7st September,21st September
Language
English and French (above 5 Pax French speaking guide)
Accomodation
3 Star Hotel in KTM, Teahouse and Camping during the trek
Permits
Special Mustang and Naar Phu Permit and ACAP Permit Fee
Departure from
Kathmandu to Kathmandu
Transportation
Bus, Jeeps and plane
Fitness level
Moderate
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Maximum Altitude
6328m
Guiding method
Experienced trek and peak climbing guide

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Mustang to Phu Trek Overview

The Mustang to Phu Trek is an extraordinary adventure that immerses you in the raw beauty and deep cultural roots of the Mustang Himalayan region before leading you to the remote and mystical village of Phu. This trek is a rare combination of scenic wonder, high-altitude adventure, and traditional Tibetan-influenced culture, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of Mustang Nepal.

Sacred Lakes: Damodar Kunda

Located at an altitude of 4,890 meters in the remote stretches of the Mustang Himalaya, Damodar Kunda is a sacred lake revered by Hindus. Tucked near the Tibetan border in the far north of Mustang Nepal, the lake is believed to cleanse sins from both past and present lives when bathed in. It is also the origin of the Gandaki River and a spiritual destination known for the presence of Shaligram stones. Damodar Kunda includes several interconnected glacial lakes—Brahmakunda, Rudrakunda, Anantakunda—with Damodar Kunda being the largest of them all. Visiting this spiritual lake within the Mustang Himalayan region is considered a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage.

Saribung Pass and Peak Climbing

Saribung Peak, standing tall at 6,328 meters, is a thrilling mountaineering destination in the remote Damodar Himal range of Mustang Nepal, close to the Tibetan frontier. This lesser-explored peak presents an adventurous climb paired with a challenging trek through one of the most secluded parts of the Mustang Himalayan region. Officially opened for climbing in 2006 by IFMGA mountain guide Paulo Grobel and the Himalayan Travelers Team, Saribung has grown in popularity among trekkers seeking unique, off-the-beaten-path expeditions.

Trekking through Saribung Pass (6,042 meters) requires excellent fitness, mental resilience, and some technical mountaineering skills. The route weaves through Upper Mustang Nepal and into the untouched Nar and Phu Valleys, offering a dramatic journey across icy trails and high passes. As one of the highest and most remote passes in Nepal, Saribung provides awe-inspiring views of the Mustang Himalaya and neighboring ranges.

Best Time to Climb Saribung Peak

The optimal climbing season for Saribung Peak and Pass is from April to November, with April-May and September-October being the most favorable months. During this time, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic vistas of Himalayan giants, including Bhrikuti Himal, Sano Bhrikuti, Sano Kailash Himal, Annapurna, and the Dhaulagiri range—all forming part of the greater Mustang Himalayan region.

History and Culture of Upper Mustang

The Upper Mustang region of Nepal, also known as the Mustang Himalayan region, was once the Last Forbidden Kingdom. Opened to trekkers in 1992 under strict regulations, it has preserved its unique Tibetan-influenced culture and dramatic high-altitude landscapes. Nestled in the upper Kali Gandaki Valley—part of the Mustang Nepal district—Upper Mustang lies within a deep, wind-swept gorge bordered by the Nilgiri, Damodar, and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Trekkers explore the ancient walled city of Lo-Manthang, home to centuries-old monasteries and the last remaining Raja (King) of Mustang. The culture here closely mirrors that of Tibet, making the Mustang Himalaya an ideal destination for cultural and spiritual exploration. The semi-arid desert terrain, cliff-top villages, and medieval atmosphere create a trekking experience unlike any other in Nepal.

Permits and Regulations for Upper Mustang and Phu Trek

Since Mustang Nepal is classified as a restricted area, special permits are mandatory. All treks must be arranged through a registered Nepali agency with a minimum of two trekkers.

Minimum of two trekkers (2clients) is compulsory for any restricted area in Nepal for issuing the special permits. A company and a local staff is must and in no way you can organize any restricted area trek through independent guide or a porter.
Upper Mustang Restricted Permit Cost: $500 per person for 10 days. If longer is required, an additional $50 per day is charged
ACAP Permit: $30 per person.
Saribung peak permit: $ 250 per person in Spring season and $125 per person in Autumn season.
Naar Phu Restricted permit: $ 100 per person week( September to November)/$75 per person(December to August) and $15 pes person a day beyond one week.

This journey through Mustang Nepal, from the sacred lakes of Damodar Kunda to the high passes of Saribung and the ancient village of Phu, is a rare adventure into the untamed beauty and mystic traditions of the Mustang Himalayan region. Whether you’re seeking spiritual renewal or high-altitude thrills, the Mustang Himalaya promises a life-changing trek that echoes long after the trail ends.

Mustang to Phu Trek Highlights:

Mustang to phu trek is one of the most beautiful glacial traverses in Nepal and crossing Saribung pass at 6042m is one of the highest pass in Nepal.
Exploring remote area of Mustang and Naar phu valley are the most thrilled journey through the Tibetan influenced culture and traditional villages.
Visit a small Buddhist kingdom Lo-Manthang that until relatively recently was closed to the outside world. Attractive Tibetan-style villages with a strong, well preserved Tibetan culture and intriguing long-abandoned cliff dwellings and ancient cave monasteries.
A dramatic desert landscape with incredible ‘organ-pipe’ cliffs, set against a backdrop of the mighty snow-capped Himalaya. While on trek stay in charming teahouses, small lodges and camping trek in mountain side.
Explore Damoder Kunda, the sacred lake and a famous holy place for Hindus and confront stunning Saribung 6328m peak climbing.

Day 1 :

Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to your Hotel.

When you arrive in the airport our staff will receive you at Tribhuvan International airport, Kathmandu. He/ She will be displaying a placard with Himalayan Travelers Trek & Expedition written in it outside the airport terminal. He will meet, greet and welcome you with auspicious garland and escort you to your respective hotel by our private tourist vehicle. At the hotel, he will assist you to check in and do pre-trip meeting with you. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2 :

Trek preparation day and if you have time, you can visit the world historical site in Kathmandu.

On this day, you can visit the world historical site in Kathmandu and prepare for the trek. You will also be briefed about your overall program on this day, introduce your guide and clear your questions/inquiries if any. Overnight at hotel.

Day 3 :

Drive to Pokhara

After breakfast, drive to Pokhara. The road takes us out of the Kathmandu Valley along the Prithivi Highway. On the way, we can see Trisuli River( one of the famous rafting river of Nepal) and rafters rafting on. After you reach Pokhara and check into your hotel you can roam around the Fewa Lake and go for boating and relax.

Day 4 :

Fly/Drive to Jomsom(2720m) and trek to Kagbeni (2810m)

This amazing short fly makes your trip more interesting as you can enjoy beautiful hills and mountain views during this flight. After you reach Jomsom, you will hike to Kagbeni via Lubra Villege( one of the hidden bon Village of Lower Mustang) and visit around Kagbeni ( The Tibetan Village). Kagbeni is the gateway to Upper Mustang.

Day 5 :

Kagbeni- Tangbe-Tetang- Chhusang(3980m)

After breakfast, we have to check for especial Upper Mustang permits and drive till Tangbe by jeep and hike to Tetang. Entry to Tangbe is thus from below a string of beautiful chortens and a ruined fort. Then instead of continuing along the road, it’s better to detour via Tetang. Tetang is one of the best preserved villages of the Shoyul. Arriving in the village from above is particularly beautiful. Then, continue trek to Chhusang. We find three protectors (Rigsum Gonpo) through out this trip. There are three colored Rigsum Gonpas and they represents the trinity formed by the three most popular buddhisattvas in the Mustang area: Jampelyang (Sanscrit:Manjushri), Chenresig (Avalokiteshvara) and Chana Dorje (Vajrapani).

Day 6 :

Chhusang-Samar via Ghyakar(3735m)

Today we cross Kali Gandaki River and pass through the steep barren land alongside the copper-red canyon. We will visit a Ghyakar village and monastery. We will continue down-hills and up-hills until Samar.

Day 7 :

Samar -Shyangboche (3800m)/Ghiling(3570m).

Today we will continue our trek challenging with down-hills and up-hills of the trail and visit Chungsi Cave and continue trek to our destination Shyangboche/Ghiling. Chungsi cave is a popular pilgrimage of Mustang which is believed that Guru Ringpoche meditated in this cave around 8th century. This cave is naturally originated on the cliff.

Day 8 :

Shyangboche/Ghiling-Ghami(Ghemi)(3520)

After breakfast we will leave Shyangboche/Ghiling in the alternative route and head towards Ghemi. As soon as we leave Shyangboche/Ghiling, we cross many hills to get into Ghami. During this journey we will trek up and down walking through narrow trail of semi-arid desert of hills and panoramic Himalayan views. Shyangboche to Ghami route offers you the similar exploration of the village in Tibetan plateau. Many massif mountain views, landscape, culture and natural of this part makes the journey joyful.

Day 9 :

Ghami(Ghemi)-Dhakmar - Chrang(3560m)

Today after crossing the steel bridge at Ghami Khola, we will walk along the longest mani wall of Upper Mustang and pass many chortens to reach Drakmar. Drakmar is one of the most fabulous village and valley with stunning panoramic views of different colored red-cliffs. From below Tensing Riverside Lodge, take the path for Ghar Gumba which winds it’s way through the cliff and turn left and follow the line of the ridge crossing a few small intermediate summits. From the pass we can see the amazing views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Throng peak, Nilgiri and Damodar mountin range. Then after we will continue to Ghar Gumba, the oldest monastery in Upper Mustang which is linked with Guru Rinpoche and Samye monastery in Tibet.

Day 10 :

Chrang-Lomanthang(3810m)

Today we walk through motorable road, the walking trails are mostly flat, wide and gradually up. From the windy pass we can see the first glimpse of an amazing walled capital of Lo Manthang. From the pass we descent down to reach our final destination Lomanthang.

Day 11 :

Explore Lo-Manthang, walled capital of Lo (especially visit monasteries)

Lo-Manthang is one of the major attraction of this trip, the walled capital of Buddhist kingdom of Lo and is the northern two-thirds of Mustang district founded by Ame Pal in 1380. It has tall whitewashed mud-brick walls, gumpas and Raja’s or Royal or King’s palace. There are four major temples at Lo-Manthang: Jampa Lhakhang or Jampa Gompa the oldest known as the ‘God house’, Thubchen Gumpa a huge and red assembly hall, Chodey Gumpa the main city Gompa and Choprang Gumpa popularly known as (new gumpa).

Day 12 :

Lomanthang- Choser

Today we trek to Choser, have lunch at Choer, visit around the Choser valley and get back into the teahouse. There are many Tibetan villages, caves and monasteries within this valley to visit. We will visit Jhong cave and deep red Gharphu Gumpa built into the rock face.

Day 13 :

Choser-konchok ling- Lomanthang

Today early in the morning after breakfast we visit Konchok ling cave and trek back to Lomanthang. This cave is famous for it’s amazingly beautiful Murals. Large figures of Vajradhara, Chaturbuja, Avalokiteshvara and Tara are depicted in the Mural of this cave. The main purpose of visiting this Cave is to admire the cave painting in the Leopard’s Grotto, the surrounding countryside, the views from the arête, the ambience, the hardiness of the trail all combine to make this the most unmissable itinerary in the whole of North Mustang. The cave consists of a wall 7.5m long covered by 55 panels of 12th century Pala Buddhist art representations. Depicted in the principal fresco are the “The Great Accomplished Ones” or Mahasiddas, historic persons or legendary characters practicing asceticism and psychophysiogic techniques of yoga.

Day 14 :

Lomathang-Yara(3650m)

Heading towards Yara leads us to the same route to Tsarang till near the Sungdha Chorten. After that we follow the left route of the trail and pass through the small hills to reach Udi Danda pass. From this pass we can see the panoramic views of different colored cliffs, hills and mountains. We will descend down from Udi Danda till Dhi Village and stop there for lunch. Dhi village is a full of farming fields, we can also go for excursion of Dhi village if interested. Then after we cross Kali Gandaki River and go along the trail on the left side of a Puyung Khola. We can see very beautiful landscapes on the opposite side of near Yara. There are also Chortenas and Rigsum Gompo (the three protectors) on the way. Then after continue 10-20 minutes, we reach our destination.

Day 15 :

Explore Tashi Kabum,Luri Gumba,Gharagaon and camp in Luri Gumba(3900m).

A day for culture, visiting two exceptional religious sites- Tashi Kabum and Luri Gumpa with the highlights being the unique landscape of the Yara caves. We visit Tashi Kabum which is located in a cliff approximately 50meters above the Puyon Khola on the way to Luri Gumpa. It takes almost an hour to reach Tashi Kabum by foot from Yara village. It is little bit difficult to reach this cave and also we need to crawl down to enter into the cave but once inside we have enough space to stand approximately five-six meters high. In the center of Tashi Kabum cave there is a white chorten under the ceiling of eight suspicious symbols. The symbols painted on the ceiling are surrounded by Vajras and lotus petals as in a Mandala and contains Lokeshvara and a Buddhist Master. The mantra of compassion, “Om mani padme hum” is painted in a lot of places in Upper Mustang. Luri Gumba is also known as Luri cave monastery which is situated inside the cave with numerous delicate paintings. This cave also surrounded by beautiful landscapes and is one of the most important places to worship in the Kingdom. The monastery represents the “Dhukpa Kagyu” sect of Tibetan Buddhism and one of the Mustang’s interesting mysterious. In the center of this cave is a chorten, six meters high, with painted figures on all sides of its rectangular base, on its dome, and also beneath the ritual parasol atop the dome. The domed ceiling is decorated with eight painted images of Mahasiddhas, circling above the chorten.

Day 16 :

Luri Gumba-Ghuma Thati(4760m)

Go down the valley until you find a shortcut opposite the sheep pens. This joins the main path connecting Yara and the Damother lakes. it passes a large plateau which can be seen clearly from Luri, then climbs the hill to a ledge on the ridge that allows passage to the other side of the crest. A horizontal path then leads to some wide meadows and to a col(Lhetak). Continue along a path on the ridge then a ravine to a high col at 4932m. and descend the other side(sheep pens) and quickly reach the at Ghuma Thati.

Day 17 :

Ghuma Thati- Kyumu La(5300m) -Batsyak Khola(4880m)

Follow the valley of the Kyumupani khola up the riverbed, crossing to its right bank. the ravine makes a sharp bend then a final rocky slop leads to the Kyumu La (5300m) if you went a short detour to the summit of kyumupani(5565m) offers a superb view over the Damother Himal. The descent is no problem. Batsyak khola camp is not a nice place, but there’s no option. because it’s too far to cross both the Kyumu la and the Batsyak La. it’s difficalt for our staff, porters and clients need to be very well acclimatised and and fit.

Day 18 :

Batsyak Khola(4880m)-Batsyak La(5505m)- French Camp(4950m).

Go back up the river for around 500m. the with path climbs on the right in a series of hairpins up the steep slopes. it then traverses gradually upwards towards the south to the Batsyak la (5505m) The landscapes are still just as spectacular, although at time snow brings additional difficulties. The descent is equally well marked, and wade across a small stream then climb gradually to a little col(4988m) french Camp is just beyond. It’s a wide plain of grass, with water an ideal campsite. Damodar Kunda is just half an hour walk further on, across a small col (5014m). French camp it is possible to climb to a small summit (5140m) by going round it to the right. Numerous shaligrams can be seen, along with a beautiful view.

Day 19 :

French Camp- Damothar kunda (4890m)- Japanese Base Camp(5300m)

From french Camp, cross the small col at the end of the gorge and descend gently towards the Damodar lakes. and the pilgrims’ shelter. Reach a large chorten opposite the main lake and follow the path, it clearly visible,still on the right bank. It passes several animal pens used in summer by herds of goats. Continue on the flank. The ravine gets narrower and the path becomes steeper and exposed. The roate rejoins the river course,encumbered by blocks and boulders, until Japanese Base Camp.

Day 20 :

Japanese Bese Camp(5300m)-Thulo Dunga Camp (5750m)

April 25-2015 was a black day for Nepal. when an earthquake struck the country with devastating consequences. Here a huge landlide has totally blacked the path on the left bank of the Khumjungar glacier. slowly a new route will evolve on the east side of the moraine of the right bank. Not so easy initiaally, the route will go directly to thulo Dunga Camp, avoiding all the glacier part, but with a lot of ascent and descent.

Day 21 :

Thulo Dunga Camp-Saribung pass(6042m)-Saribung Peak clinbing(6328m)

Saribung phedi(5600m). Continue to follow the moraine in an arc then leave it soon to join the glacier. Don’t be tempted by the first col on the left. That is De Hults pass (6050m) It’s Mustang side is very easy but the glacier on the other side is much more complex and full of crevasses. Join the flat of the glacier opposite the Saribung pass and climb it’s wide slopes as best as possible. Normally there is no risk of avalanche if you stay in the middle of the valley and avoid the steeper slopes on the left. The col is very wide, with saribung(6328m) on one side and the two small summit of Sonam Himal and Karsang peak (6225m) on the other.To establish a camp on the col is a good way to immerse oneself in the altitude and make the most of the variety of summits and you can enjoy the panoramic views of mountains. It is of course also possible to climb saribung the same day as the traverse of the col, but it requires much more effort.The ascent of Saribung is easy. The effort required is relatively little, around 300m. Its UIAA classification is level F in snow. It is in any case optional. To return from the summit, descent in the axis of the col to the large ledge. cross it to the left and rejoin the edge of the glacier to avoid a steeper slope with crevasses. watch your feet on the pebbles and descent until you reach the lower, flatter part of the glacier. will certainly prefer to stay on the scree. follow this glacier, which curves to the left, then after a short descent climb again on the central moraine to set up camp. To get your bearings, saribung phedi is situated just opposite the cliffs an angle with the De Hults glacier.

Day 22 :

Saribung Phedi-Nguru(4450m)

This is the most disagreeable day of the whole crossing. The descent of the black glacier of Batchauk is laborious, on terrain littered with large blocks and scree. A path marked with a few cairns now allow an easier descent. at the exit of the glacier, stay on the left bank so as not to miss Bhrikuti shail base Camp, a great place to make camp side. Continue to descend, wade cross a little river then follow the main river, probably the khumjungar khola. Its necessary to cross a second steam before climbing again to the top of the old lateral moraine. At the top of the climb, you will discover a wide trail from phu, which in a few years will reach Tibet via the Kongyur La. This new path, on the side of the valley and mainly descending, leads directly to Nguru, an abandoned village with a phantom like ambience. Its a comfortable camp in the old fields, next to water.

Day 23 :

Nguru-Phu(4080m)

The day is not so far, you can be in Phu for lunch and you can explore Phu village. Cross the river, then climb up to a big chorten seen on the arete. The trail continues to traverse, passing a new chorten and a surprising red monolith, before descending straight into Phu. Phu is a restricted area, and trekkers can only enter with a special permit, which must be issued through an accredited trekking Agency. This village is a very old and traditional village with a historical monastery. so you devoted the time to exploring the village, a stack of Tibetan style mud and stone houses, bedecked with prayer flags and crowned by stacks of firewood.

Day 24 :

Phu vallage-Meta(3560m)

Phu to Meta, you will have little long day, way is gradual, along the river side. We can see nice rock cliff, Though out this day, and Chyakhu you can have lunch. It can explore few village Kyang and Chyakhu. In winter time, Phu village people move to Kyang to live, and after lunch, you continue trek to Meta.

Day 25 :

Meta-Koto(2600m)

Meta-Koto(2600m) you should have to walk steep jigjag down hill around 1 hour. We walk through Juniper and pine forests and reach Koto. We will have walk through nice river view and waterfalls. We can see few small tea shop in between Jungle and we can have tea and Biscuit or noodles soup in there. and then continue trek to Koto.

Day 26 :

Koto to Besisahar and Kathmandu

Drive to Besisahar by Jeep and private Bus to Kathmandu.

Day 27 :

Kathmandu.

Shopping and relax day in Kathmandu.

Day 28 :

Departure from Nepal.

Mustang to Phu Trek (Saribung Peak Climbing): A Journey Through the Hidden Mustang Himalaya

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map