Damodar Kunda Trek - Trip Details

✓ Max. Elevation: 4890 m
✓ Best Season: Spring - Autumn
✓ Duration: 22 days
✓ Trip Grading: Moderate
✓ Activity: Trekking
✓ Transport: Private vehicle
✓ Accommodation: Hotel- Lodge- Tea house- Tent
✓ Meals: Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
✓ Availability: Available

Highlights

Damodar Kunda Trek is a sacred pilgrimage and adventurous trek to the high-altitude Damodar Kunda Lake, nestled in the remote Upper Mustang region of Nepal. This trek offers stunning views of the Himalayas, rich Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, and vibrant local traditions. Ideal for those seeking spiritual reflection combined with natural beauty, this trek is a unique experience through rugged landscapes and culturally rich villages.

The Damodar Kunda Trek, organized by Best Trips Nepal, takes you deep into the mystical Upper Mustang region, combining adventure, spirituality, and culture. The journey leads to the sacred Damodar Kunda Lake, revered by Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims alike. Along the trail, trekkers witness panoramic mountain views, including peaks like Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri, and explore traditional villages where Tibetan Buddhist culture thrives. This trek is a perfect blend of high-altitude trekking, cultural immersion, and serene natural beauty, suitable for trekkers with good physical fitness and a spirit of exploration.

✓ Sacred pilgrimage to Damodar Kunda Lake
✓ Up to 4,890 meters (Damodar Kunda Lake altitude)
✓ Route: Kathmandu – Jomsom – Kagbeni – Chele – Geling – Charang – Lo Manthang – Dhakmar – Ghuma Thanti – Damodar Kunda – Return via same route – Jomsom – Pokhara – Kathmandu
✓ Remote and less crowded trekking route, ideal for peaceful exploration
✓ Location: Upper Mustang region, Nepal

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu, Transfer to Hotel

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), a friendly representative from Best Trips Nepal will welcome you, holding a sign with our logo. You’ll be transferred to your hotel where you can rest or explore the lively streets of Kathmandu. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring traditional Nepalese cuisine and cultural performances—a perfect way to start your journey. Overnight at a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Guided Sightseeing Around Kathmandu Valley

Spend the day discovering Kathmandu’s rich heritage with visits to the Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan, each with its unique charm. Experience the peaceful Boudhanath Stupa, the hilltop Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and the sacred Pashupatinath Temple by the Bagmati River. After this cultural immersion, return to your hotel for a restful night.

Day 03: Drive to Pokhara

After breakfast, embark on a scenic 6-hour drive to Pokhara, enjoying rivers, villages, and lush green hills along the way. For a quicker option, take a 30-minute flight. Once in Pokhara, spend the afternoon exploring the lakeside, boating on Fewa Lake, or relaxing in cafés. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.

Day 04: Drive to Jomsom

After breakfast, drive to Jomsom, a scenic journey that offers views of the Kali Gandaki River and the surrounding mountains. Upon arrival, explore the local area and prepare for the trek ahead. Overnight at a guesthouse in Jomsom.

Day 05: Trek to Kagbeni

Begin your trek to Kagbeni, a village that serves as the gateway to Upper Mustang. The trail offers views of the Kali Gandaki River and the surrounding landscapes. Upon arrival, explore the village and its unique culture. Overnight at a guesthouse in Kagbeni.

Day 06: Trek to Chele

Trek to Chele, passing through the village of Tangbe with its whitewashed houses and narrow alleys. The trail offers views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. Upon arrival, relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Overnight at a guesthouse in Chele.

Day 07: Trek to Geling

Continue your trek to Geling, passing through the village of Chhusang and crossing the Taklam La Pass. The trail offers views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. Upon arrival, explore the village and its unique culture. Overnight at a guesthouse in Geling.

Day 08: Trek to Charang

Trek to Charang, passing through the village of Ghami and crossing the Nyi La Pass. The trail offers views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. Upon arrival, explore the village and its unique culture. Overnight at a guesthouse in Charang.

Day 09: Trek to Lo Manthang

Continue your trek to Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang. The trail offers views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. Upon arrival, explore the village and its unique culture. Overnight at a guesthouse in Lo Manthang.

Day 10: Explore Lo Manthang

Spend the day exploring Lo Manthang, visiting its monasteries, palaces, and surrounding areas. Learn about the unique culture and history of the region. Overnight at a guesthouse in Lo Manthang.

Day 11: Trek to Dhakmar

Begin your trek to Dhakmar, passing through the village of Marang and crossing the Lo La Pass. The trail offers views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. Upon arrival, relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Overnight at a guesthouse in Dhakmar.

Day 12: Trek to Ghuma Thanti

Continue your trek to Ghuma Thanti, passing through the village of Yara and crossing the Ghuma La Pass. The trail offers views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. Upon arrival, relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Overnight at a guesthouse in Ghuma Thanti.

Day 13: Trek to Damodar Kunda

Trek to Damodar Kunda, a sacred lake located at an altitude of 4,890 meters. The trail offers views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. Upon arrival, take time to explore the area and reflect on the spiritual significance of the location. Overnight at a camp near Damodar Kunda.

Day 14: Trek to Ghuma Thanti

Retrace your steps back to Ghuma Thanti, passing through the same villages and landscapes. Upon arrival, relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Overnight at a guesthouse in Ghuma Thanti.

Day 15: Trek to Lo Manthang

Continue your trek back to Lo Manthang, passing through the same villages and landscapes. Upon arrival, explore the village and its unique culture. Overnight at a guesthouse in Lo Manthang.

Day 16: Trek to Charang

Trek back to Charang, passing through the same villages and landscapes. Upon arrival, relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Overnight at a guesthouse in Charang.

Day 17: Trek to Geling

Continue your trek back to Geling, passing through the same villages and landscapes. Upon arrival, explore the village and its unique culture. Overnight at a guesthouse in Geling.

Day 18: Trek to Chele

Trek back to Chele, passing through the same villages and landscapes. Upon arrival, relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Overnight at a guesthouse in Chele.

Day 19: Trek to Kagbeni

Continue your trek back to Kagbeni, passing through the same villages and landscapes. Upon arrival, explore the village and its unique culture. Overnight at a guesthouse in Kagbeni.

Day 20: Trek to Jomsom

Trek back to Jomsom, passing through the same villages and landscapes. Upon arrival, relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Overnight at a guesthouse in Jomsom.

Day 21: Drive to Pokhara

After breakfast, drive back to Pokhara, a scenic journey that offers views of the Kali Gandaki River and the surrounding mountains. Upon arrival, relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.

Day 22: Drive to Kathmandu

After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu, a scenic journey that offers views of the surrounding landscapes. Upon arrival, relax and enjoy the city. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 23: Departure

Our representative from Best Trips Nepal will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey. We hope you leave with wonderful memories of the Damodar Kunda Trek and Nepal’s warm hospitality!

Included

✓ Permits: All necessary permits for trekking and climbing.
✓ Trekking Guides: Experienced and certified professional trekking guides.
✓ Base Camp and Camps: Full logistics and setup at base camp and higher camps.

Excluded

✗ International Flights: Flights to and from Nepal
✗ Personal Gear: Personal climbing equipment (e.g., boots, clothing, gloves)
✗ Personal Expenses: Tips, snacks, and souvenirs

Trip Organization

Best Trips Nepal proudly presents the Damodar Kunda Trek, an expedition that blends physical challenge with spiritual discovery. Starting from Kathmandu, trekkers travel to the gateway town of Jomsom before venturing into the Upper Mustang region, known for its unique arid landscape and vibrant Tibetan culture. The trek passes through ancient villages like Kagbeni, Chele, and Lo Manthang, offering intimate glimpses into local customs and traditions that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Trekking to Damodar Kunda involves crossing high passes and traversing rugged terrain, which rewards adventurers with breathtaking Himalayan panoramas and the tranquil, sacred lake itself. Along the way, visitors encounter ancient monasteries, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and the warm hospitality of the Mustang people.

Best Trips Nepal ensures a well-organized trek with experienced guides, comfortable accommodations ranging from guesthouses to homestays, and authentic local meals. The itinerary includes cultural tours, ample acclimatization time, and opportunities for spiritual reflection at Damodar Kunda.

This trek is not only a physical journey but also a transformative experience that deepens understanding of Nepal’s cultural and natural heritage. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a spiritual seeker, the Damodar Kunda Trek with Best Trips Nepal promises an unforgettable adventure.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to do the Damodar Kunda Trek?: The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) due to stable weather and clear skies.

2. What level of fitness is required?: Moderate to high fitness level is recommended due to high altitude and long trekking days.

3. Do I need a special permit for Upper Mustang?: Yes, trekkers need a special Upper Mustang permit issued by the Nepal government.

4. Is this trek suitable for beginners?: It is better suited for trekkers with some prior experience and acclimatization due to altitude and remote terrain.