Upper Mustang with Damodar Kunda is a trekking trip to the trans-Himalayan to explore sacred lakes with unbeaten paths.
Your Gateway to Himalayas
Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trek
Trip at a Glance
Duration17 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
DestinationNepal
Maximum Altitude4,890 m
AccommodationHotel/Tea House/Tented Camp
Starts/EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking
Best TimeMarch to November
Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trek in Nepal explores a restricted area with distinct, dry, arid landscapes and spiritual cultures. Our 17-day trek to Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda differs from any other trek in Nepal. It is one of the least-visited treks because of the isolation it takes to see the centuries-old monasteries.
If you want a less crowded trekking package in Nepal, the Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trek is the best option. You trek to the lost forbidden kingdom, Lo Manthang (3,840 m), and the holy Damodar Lake (4,890 m).
Trekking to Lo Manthang, the upper part of Mustang, is an excellent venture. Visiting the holy Damodar Lake is an exceptional part of the journey. The Mustang Damodar Kunda Trek is one of our favourite off-the-beaten treks in Nepal.
This Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda trekking combines teahouse and camping. From the starting point up to Yara, you do a teahouse trek. After Yara, we switch to camping in Damodar Kunda until we return to Yara.
During the trek, you spend the night in remote settlement areas. Tibetan Buddhism highly influences the locals, and their traditions and culture resemble many Tibetans. Along the Mustang Damodar Kunda trekking routes, you come across ancient monasteries, chortens, and mani walls.
Introduction of Damodar Kunda (Lake)
Damodar Kunda is a holy lake. It is at an elevation of 4,890 meters and the lap of the Damodar Himal in the Upper Mustang region. The lake flows southward through the rain shadow valley at the eastern edge of the Annapurna range.
According to Hindu mythology, this lake has tremendous religious value. We all believe our sins go away after bathing in it. During the full moon in August, pilgrims visit this lake, lighting up the festivity in the area.
How to Reach Damodar Kunda in Nepal?
Deep in Upper Mustang, near the Tibetan border, is Damodar Kunda. The usual path is as follows:
Travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara via car or plane. Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom, Mustang's administrative hub. Trek from Jomsom to Kagbeni, the Upper Mustang entrance settlement. Trek across steep mountains and rugged terrain to Damodar Kunda, passing past traditional communities like as Chele and Lo Manthang.
Upper Mustang requires a Restricted Area Permit, and because to the high altitude, you should allow for several days of acclimatization.
The major highlights of Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trek
- Explore the remote trans-Himalayan region, Upper Mustang.
- Enjoy offbeat, adventurous, less-crowded trekking.
- Get to see diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to arid, barren hills.
- Cross many passes and remote villages.
- Come across centuries-old monasteries, mani walls, and chortens.
- The trail crosses many passes.
- Spend the night in Lo Manthang and see the lifestyle of the locals, who are highly influenced by Tibetan culture.
- Explore the holy Damodar Kunda (lake).
- Enjoy the teahouse and camping trek.
- Witness breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains, such as the Annapurna range, Nilgiri, Tilicho Peak, Bhrikuti Peak, etc.
Views during Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trekking Route
The Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trekking route offers breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna regions. The trek provides gorgeous scenery of lush valleys and further presents the arid, barren views of the Mustang region. You also see remarkable views of gorges and sky caves along the way.
The view of majestic Himalayas such as Annapurna I (8,091 m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) is incredible. During the Damodar Kunda Trek, you'll see many other peaks, such as Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), Nilgiri Peak (7,061 m), and many more.
Why is our Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trekking a special package for 2025?
We offer the best Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trekking itinerary and cost for 2025. Our price is the most competitive among other trekking companies. Our main theme is the client's satisfaction. So, we always provide our best, top-notch services to our valued customers.
Moreover, our policies are transparent. There are no hidden charges, and the booking procedure is easy online.
We have highly experienced and qualified trekking guides, certified by the Nepal government. They have extensive knowledge about the region, so you can expect a very informative and smooth venture. Likewise, our team members are amiable and helpful.
Itinerary
This is our standard and recommended Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trek Itinerary.
Trip PlanExpand all
We'll pick you up from Kathmandu airport according to the time of your flight landing on your arrival day. Our airport representative will assist you in checking in at the hotel and leave you to freshen up.
You'll meet with our manager to brief you on the program, settle the payments, address your needs. He will introduce your trekking guide in the evening.
You have a free day today because we need to obtain the necessary permits for Upper Mustang and Damodar Trek for you.
You can explore Thamel, a tourist hub and visit some of the world heritage sites around Kathmandu Valley. Our guide will meet you to give a duffle bag and help you buy or rent other necessary trekking gear if you need it.
A guide will meet you at the hotel and walk to the tourist bus station. The bus journey offers beautiful landscapes and mountains. After reaching Pokhara, check in to the hotel for a refreshment. You can visit Fewa Lake and the lakeside market.
You'll drive to the Pokhara airport early to catch an early flight to Jomsom. It is a short scenic flight over the Himalayas. From the plane window, you can see Mount Dhaulagiri, Mount Annapurna I, and Mount Fishtail, along with the surrounding greenery.
After landing at Jomsom airport, you'll ride on a local jeep to Chhuksang village for your first night in the mountain. The drive offers phenomenal mountain landscapes
Your trek begins from Chhuksang village. You'll follow the riverbank of Kali Gandaki River. You can see sky caves among the cliff walls. The trail leads a steep ascent to Chele Village. You continue ascending to Chotare Lopcha Pass (3,625 m). The views from the Chotare Lopcha Pass are incredible. Then, you'll walk on a winding path to Samar village.
From Samar, you'll descend and cross a stream to ascend to Samar La (4,000 m) Pass. From Samar La top, the views of Lapcha Pass, Lhakpa Pass, and the Ghiling village are mind-blowing. From here, you pass Chyangsi Cave to reach Ghiling village.
You'll leave Ghiling after your breakfast to reach Dhamkar. Today, you'll cross several passes like Ghami La and Nhi La, mani walls and chortens on the Upper Mustang hike. Further, you walk alongside stone walls to reach the fields of Dhakmar village. Dhakmar village offers beautiful mountain views.
Today, you'll cross alpine meadows and pass by the Ghar Gompa. Ghar Gompa is more than 1200 years old. After exploring Gompa, you'll cross Chongo La pass and descend to Gekar. Then, you'll ascend and walk through farming fields to reach Tsarang.
The trail continues, passing by numerous chortens and mani walls to Lo Manthang. First, you cross a steel bridge to reach Marang village. From here, you ascend to Lo La Pass and enjoy splendid views of Tilicho Peak, Nilgiri, and Bhrikuti Peak. From the Lo La pass, the route descends to our last destination of the day, Lo Manthang.
You'll spend an extra day in Lo Manthang to explore the village and nearby areas. You'll hike to Garphu and Nyapu Gompas. You'll also explore some caves and follow the trading route to Tibet. You also get to see numerous ruins of forts.
You'll leave Lo Manthang by taking a short climb up to a glacial valley with views of the reddish-brown historical walled city. On reaching the ridge, you'll see stunning views of mountains and landscape. The trail descends to the village of Dhi.
You'll feel the air is fresh with the meadows and farming fields near the riverside. You'll cross the river to follow a path along the left bank to reach our overnight destination, Yara.
The trail ascends to Luri Cave Monastery. You'll explore this fascinating monastery and follow a barren valley crossing a 5,100-meter pass. The trail soon leads us to Ghuma Thanti for a night's stay.
From Ghuma Thanthi, the trail continues to ascend and descend. Today, you'll cross another 5,600-meter-high pass to reach Damodar Kunda. The top of the pass offers excellent views.
Today is a rest day at Damodar Kunda, so you can explore this holy lake and the nearby areas and relax.
You'll retrace the path back to Yara. From Yara, you take a local jeep and drive to Jomsom. You'll spend the night in a comfortable teahouse in Jomsom.
Today is the last day of the trek. On this day, you fly back to Pokhara from Jomsom. You'll take another flight back to Kathmandu from Pokhara. The remaining day is free in Kathmandu.
Our team will drop you off at the airport and bid you our last goodbye.
If the above itinerary doesn’t meet your needs, we can design a Tailor-Made Program based on your travel plans and requirements,Reach our travel experts.
Dates & Availability
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Cost Includes
- All ground transportation as per the itinerary by private vehicle and tourist bus.
- Complimentary airport pickup and drop-off services.
- Three nights’ accommodation at a three-star category hotel in Kathmandu, including breakfast.
- One-night accommodation at a standard tourist hotel in Pokhara, including breakfast.
- Pokhara/Jomsom/Pokhara round-trip flight tickets, including domestic airport taxes.
- Pokhara to Kathmandu flight ticket inclusive of domestic airport taxes.
- Three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) on the trek.
- Twin-sharing accommodations at the teahouse during the trekking.
- Tented camp and all camping expenses from Yara to Damodar Kunda and back to Yara.
- One highly experienced English-speaking & friendly trekking guide and his expenses.
- Required porters (one porter between two people), including their expenses.
- Mustang trekking special permit fee (the Mustang region is in a restricted zone; we need a special permit to visit this area).
- Annapurna conservation fees. Please bring two passport-size photos for the license.
- Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trekking Map.
- Nepal Gateway Company T-shirt.
- Nepal Gateway Trekking Company duffle bags for trekking.
- Local fresh fruits such as apples, bananas, oranges, pomegranates, etc., during the trek.
- First aid kit with an oximeter to check heartbeats and oxygen levels regularly.
- Emergency evacuation assistance, if needed.
- All government taxes.
- Office service charge.
Cost Excludes
- Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Your travel insurance.
- Nepal entry visa fee.
- Your international flight ticket to/from Kathmandu.
- All kinds of hot drinks (teas, coffees, and hot water) during the Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trek.
- Cold drinks (mineral water, Coke, Sprite, and Fanta) and alcoholic beverages on trekking.
- Your personal nature expenses, equipment, and medical kit.
- Hot shower, internet, and phone call unless it is free.
- Donations to schools, monasteries, etc.
- Battery charging fees for cameras, mobile phones, laptops, etc.
- Snacks and desserts (apple pies, chocolate pies, chocolate bars, etc.).
- Tipping to field staff. (Tipping is not mandatory but expected.).
- Extra accommodations in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Route Map
Good To Know
Best Time for Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trek
Upper Mustang is a part of the rain shadow area in the Himalayas. Therefore, the region does not receive rainfall in the monsoon season, which makes it a perfect time for the trek. Likewise, spring and autumn are the other two seasons in which to have wonderful trekking in the Upper Mustang.
March to the first week of December are the best months for trekking. We recommend trekking from June to September to see the arid Himalayan landscape. These months have a pleasant climate and stable weather. The bright, clear sky and stunning views make the venture phenomenal.
After the first week of December, the temperature falls below -20°C. The locals drop down to lower altitudes with their cattle to spend the winter. We do not advise trekking in the Upper Mustang in the winter.
The best time for the Tiji festival in Upper Mustang
If you have heard about the Tiji festival and wish to see it, trek in May. To avoid missing the best parts, check the date of the Tiji festival and book your trek accordingly. This festival is celebrated according to the Tibetan lunar calendar, and the monks fixed the date.
Contact us to book the trek at the right time. We can tailor-make an itinerary that covers all three days of the festival in Lo Manthang.
How difficult is Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trekking Route?
The Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trekking route is a moderate to strenuous trekking trail in Nepal. This trek is ideally suitable for experienced trekkers because of the unbeaten trail around Damodar Kunda. If you don't have previous hiking experience, you can do it with proper planning and instructions.
The Damodar Kunda trekking route is off the beaten trail and requires camping, which makes it difficult. The trek demands good physical fitness because you have to walk 6 to 8 hours in rugged terrain. You have to cross some passes on the way to Lo Manthang. There are numerous steep and rugged sections along the way.
Training for Trekking to Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda
You can take short hikes around you to prepare for the trekking to Upper Mustang Damodar Kundu. The Upper Mustang and Damodar Kunda Treks demand stamina and long-distance walking ability. Running, cycling, and swimming are also great ways to prepare.
Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda Trekking Permit Cost
To trek to Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda, you'll need two permits: a restricted area permit for Upper Mustang and an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) permit.
- Restricted permit: USD 500 per person for the first ten days and USD 50 per day after 10 days
- ACAP permit: NPR 3000.00 per person
Altitude Sickness
The Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda trekking route rises in elevation by around 4,800 meters. It's not a low altitude, but not a very high one compared to other famous treks that usually go above 5,000 to 5,500 meters.
Everybody is different and may react to the change in elevation differently. Anybody can get acute mountain sickness (AMS) on the mountain. So, we cannot guarantee a 100% altitude sickness-free journey. However, we can ensure prompt action to symptoms and a safe trip.
Our Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda trekking itinerary lets trekkers rest and get used to the elevation. We do not let you rush while trekking, so the chances of altitude sickness are low. However, it is not a very high-altitude trek; you can get AMS on this trek. The common symptoms are mild headache, breathlessness, sleeplessness, and loss of appetite.
Trek Extensions for the Damodar Kunda Trek
If you have a few more days during your Damodar Kunda Trek, these side adventures will make it even more enjoyable:
Muktinath Temple Visit
It is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, located at the foot of the Annapurna range. Famous for its 108 water spouts and eternal flame temple, Muktinath offers deep spiritual meaning and cultural richness.
Extra Days in Lo Manthang
Spend extra time in the medieval walled city to explore ancient monasteries, experience traditional Tibetan-influenced life, and, if your timing is right, witness the vibrant Tiji Festival.
Side Trip to Tilicho Lake or Kagbeni Cultural Tour
Tilicho Lake, one of the world's tallest lakes, is an excellent destination for nature lovers. Explore Kagbeni's old buildings and vibrant local markets to immerse yourself in Mustang culture.
Last-Minute Booking
Book this trek with us at the last minute and enjoy trekking in the Upper Mustang without any worries. Our team will handle and arrange everything for the journey. Please send us your inquiry for more information. To book any trek at the last minute, you must send us the total package cost.
Travel Tips
Accommodation: During this trek, you stay overnight in teahouses. The teahouses are simple and good enough for the night. Do not expect any extra services like other trekking routes. We book you the best available twin-shared rooms along the trekking route.
Food: Nepali and Tibetan dishes are the main meals in this trek. The teahouses serve the meals you choose from the menu. We suggest you carry snacks such as nuts and chocolate bars for the trek.
ATM: If you are thinking of withdrawing cash on the trail, drop this thought and get it in Kathmandu to use while trekking. The Upper Mustang trek route has no ATM.
Charging: The teahouses provide charging facilities. You have to pay extra money for the service. Carry a solar charger or spare batteries.
Luggage: All trekkers have a 10-kg weight limit when packing their trekking essentials in a duffel bag. Our porters carry these bags. You can also bring a daypack.
Personal Expenses: Hot showers, internet, drinks, laundry, and desserts are your expenses. Please bring some money for these expenses while trekking.
Travel Insurance: We advise our guests to purchase travel insurance. If a medical emergency occurs, we must evacuate you to the nearby hospital. It is not possible without your travel insurance; it's tough to respond promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Damodar Kunda Trek
How high is Damodar Kunda Lake?
The elevation of Damodar Kunda Lake is roughly 4,890 meters (16,043 feet) in the Upper Mustang area of Nepal.
Is the Damodar Kunda Trek suitable for beginners?
Damodar Kunda Trek is not recommended for beginners due to its high altitude and demanding terrain. Long trekking days of six to eight hours and rugged paths require good physical fitness and prior high-altitude trekking experience.
Do I need to join a group or hire a guide?
Yes. Since this region is remote and entry requires special permits, it is highly advised to trek with a licensed guide or join a trekking group for navigation, permit arrangements, and cultural insights.
Can I visit Damodar Kunda without entering Upper Mustang?
No. Damodar Kunda is located within the restricted Upper Mustang area. You need valid permits that cover the entire Upper Mustang region to access the lakes.
What level of fitness is needed for the trek?
Good endurance and strength are necessary to handle steep ascents and descents at high altitude. Taking time to acclimatize properly is crucial to avoid altitude sickness.
Can I do the Damodar Kunda Trek solo?
Solo trekking is not permitted because the area is a restricted zone. You must be accompanied by a licensed guide.
When is the Tiji Festival, and can I attend it on this trek?
The Tiji Festival takes place in May according to the Tibetan lunar calendar. Lo Manthang is the center of this vibrant festival. If you plan your trek accordingly, you can enjoy this unique cultural event.
Is there cell phone or internet access during the Upper Mustang Damodar Kunda trek?
Connectivity is very limited in most parts of Upper Mustang. Cellphone coverage and internet are sparse or nonexistent, so download maps and prepare offline plans.
How much do permits cost for the Damodar Kunda Trek?
The Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit costs about 500 USD for the first ten days plus 50 USD per additional day. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit is approximately 25 USD.
How physically demanding is the trek?
The Damodar Kunda Trek is rated moderate to strenuous. Expect long trekking days over rocky terrain at high altitude with camping in remote areas like Damodar Kunda itself. Strong fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience are highly recommended.
What are the altitude risks on the Damodar Kunda trek?
Altitude sickness is a serious risk above 4,500 meters. Proper acclimatization, slow pacing, hydration, and possibly medication like acetazolamide are important. Always consult a doctor before trekking.
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