Trip Overview

Damodar Kunda Trek - 21 Days

 

Damodar Kunda Trek is a popular pilgrimage trek to the sacred Damodar Kunda (Lake), a basin in Damodar Himal at an altitude of 4890 meters. Damodar Kunda, also the origin of the Gandaki river lies in the Tibetan plateau landscape. A grand celebration is observed on the full moon night of August every year attracting Hundreds of Hindus to offer their prayers. It is believed that taking a bath in the holy Kunda washes away all the sins made during the lifetime.

 

Damodar Kunda trek falls in the Upper Mustang region, a restricted area requiring special permits for trekking and visiting. With us, you don't need to worry about any kind of documentation.

 

The trekking trail passes through the amazing Jomsom town towards Kagbeni along the Kali Gandaki river bank. From Kagbeni we ascend towards Chele to Lo Manthang via several villages. From Lo Manthang, we head towards Damodar Kunda and return back following the same route. Most villages are inhabited by Sherpas whose lifestyle resembles that of Tibetans. There are magnificent monasteries that are centuries old but have protected the culture ever since. We will observe the rural lifestyle with so much simplicity. Being one of the most remote areas of Nepal, there are no tourism infrastructures because of which we will need to set up camps to rest overnight. Be prepared for a strenuous yet highly rewarding trek to Damodar Kunda in the Upper Mustang region.

 

Those willing to go on a trek to Damodar Kunda must be physically strong and fit as the trekking trail is off the beaten path and demands hours of stretched walk on rugged and rocky paths.

 

While the best seasons to travel are Spring and Autumn for the natural beauty they disclose. The views are clear and give 100% satisfaction to the trip. The Upper Mustang region can be visited during Monsoon as well as it falls in the rain shadow area.

 

So, plan your holiday to the sacred Damodar Kunda while exploring the stunning Upper Mustang region. It's an unbeatable offer!!

 

Discover the Sacred Himalayas! Book Your Damodar Kunda Trek with 8K Expeditions by sending inquiry via:

 

 

Trip Itinerary

DAY
  • 1
    Arrival In Kathmandu And Transfer To The Hotel

    Upon your arrival, one of our representatives will be waiting for you at the airport. After completing official formalities at the airport terminal, you will be transferred to the hotel booked for you where you can rest and relax.

    Altitude 1400
    Meals N/A
    Accommodation 3-5 Star Hotel
  • 2
    Trek Preparation And Official Formalities

    We allocate the second day for rest, shopping, official procedures, and trek preparation. We can also spend the rest of the day sightseeing around Kathmandu.

    Altitude 1400
    Meals Breakfast
    Accommodation 3-5 Star Hotel
  • 3
    Drive To Pokhara And Rest At The Hotel

    After an early breakfast, we will drive from the capital to Pokhara on the second day. You will be able to freshen up after a seven-hour drive through the Prithvi highway. Although the roads are a bit bumpy, you will definitely cherish the view of river Trishuli, Manakamana Cable car, and diversified hilly habitation through the window of the bus.  If we reach in time, we will be fortunate enough to amble on the glorious streets of Pokhara experiencing an exquisite sight of Phewa Lake, Mahendra Cave, Davis fall, and many more.

    Altitude 822
    Meals Breakfast And Lunch
    Accommodation 3-5 Star Hotel
  • 4
    Fly To Jomsom And Trek To Kagbeni (2800 M)

    Following our travel schedule, we will fly to a beautiful northern town, Jomsom on the fourth day of our trek. The 2800m elevated town is a bustling route for Muktinath, a sacred religious destination for both Hindus and Buddhists.  After a scrumptious lunch, we will start our hike to Kagbeni for our night stay.

    Altitude 2800
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Lodge/Teahouses/Camping
  • 5
    Trek From Kagbeni To Chele (3050m), 4-5 Hrs Trek)

    After a convenient night in Kagbeni, we will start our trek to Chele on the fifth day. As soon as we enter Kagbeni, we will have already started to behold an eye-catching treeless landscape. We will enjoy a six-hour hike and rest in Chele.

    Altitude 3050
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Camping
  • 6
    Trek From Chele To Syanbochen (3,475m), 6-7 Hrs Trek

    The trek will start getting tougher after Chele because there are two high passes; Talkam La Pass (3624m) and Dajori La Pass (3735m) to cross. While crossing these two passes, the route will bestow you some mesmerizing views of Tilicho, Yakawa Kang, and Damodar Danda. We will descend from Dajori pass, follow the riverbank passing Samar Village and we will stay in Syanbochen.

    Altitude 3475
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Camping
  • 7
    Trek From Syanbochen To Ghami (3520m), 5-6 Hrs Trek

    On the seventh day, we will make an early start to the Yamda La Pass (3850m) encountering several villages on the way to Ghami. As our trek starts elevating, we will pass through some popular forests and reach Nyi Pass (4010m). As soon as we cross the crown of the pass, we will descend steadily to Ghami, one of the largest villages in the Upper Mustang region, and spend the night there.

    Altitude 3520
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Camping
  • 8-9
    Trek From Ghami To Tsarang (3620m) To Lo Manthang (3730m)

    The trek will resume early in the morning after an energizing breakfast. We will start descending to the valley through a favorably rough trail crossing a suspension bridge over the Ghami river. After crossing the bridge, our trek will start elevating as the trail will guide you to the Tsarang Pass (3870m) and descend to Tsarang village which is located at the top of a wide canyon. The village is embellished with an ancient monastery where we will stay for the night.

     

    The ninth day will have a relaxing hike as we won’t be much far from Lo Manthang. We will surpass the Lo La Pass (3950m) from where you will be opportune to see the walled countryside of Lo Manthang below. While descending down to Lo Mamthang 3730m), the magnificent sight of Bhrikuti will definitely hypnotize you. After our arrival in Lo Manthang village, we will freshen up and get ready for the big day.

    Altitude 3730
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Camping
  • 10
    Explore Lo Manthang (3730m)

    After spending an elaborate night, we will start to explore Lo Manthang, a glorious village carrying great history and culture from ancient times. The village falls in one of the last northwest areas which are rich in Tibetan culture and architecture. We will start to explore as early as we can, visiting some of the monasteries which have been restored over the last two decades preserving their ancient value. We will visit Jhampa Gompa, Chode Gompa, Choprang Gompa, The Royal Palace, The Monastic Museum, and many other cultural and religious heritages getting to know about The Last Forbidden Kingdom. If our travel schedule favors, we will also trek to Tringkhar, a small village in the northwest.

    Altitude 3730
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Camping
  • 11
    Trek From Lo Manthang To Yara (3650 M) 

    The initial phase of our trek takes us downhill towards Dhie village. After crossing a suspension bridge we climb a steep hill until we reach the village of Yara at 3650 m. 

    Altitude 3650
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Camping
  • 12
    Trek From Yara To Ghuma Thanthi (4800 M) 

    The trail from Yara to Ghuma Thanti behind with a climb to the Luri Cave Monastery. Afterward, we cross a pass over 5100 m and follow the rugged and barren terrain to reach Ghuma Thanti. 

    Altitude 4800
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Camping
  • 13-14
    Trek From Ghuma Thanti To Damodar Kunda And Explore (4890 M)

    This is a significant day as we trek along for hours to reach our major destination, Damodar Kunda, the achievement of this trip. The trek is strenuous as we need to cross over a pass at 5600 m before reaching the Holy Damodar Kunda.

    The next day will be spent exploring the outskirts of the Kunda. It is such a marvelous place to camp with mesmerizing scenery all around. 

    Altitude 4890
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Camping
  • 15
    Trek From Damodar Kunda To Ghuma Thanti (4800 M)

    After a pleasant day at the Damodar Kunda, we retrace our path back to Ghuma Thanti crossing the 5600 m high pass. 

    Altitude 4800
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Camping
  • 16
    Trek From Ghuma Thanti To Yara (3900m)

    Following the same trail that we took earlier, we trek from Ghuma Thanti to Yara village. 

    Altitude 3900
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Camping
  • 17
    Trek From Yara To Tyange (3240 M)

    Our trek on this day starts with a steep descent down to Dechhyang River which originates from the Damodar Kunda. Then follows a steep ascent to a pass with a series of uphill climb and downhill walk until we reach Tyange village. We will set up a camp to rest overnight.

    Altitude 3240
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Camping
  • 18
    Trek From Tyange To Tetang (3040 M)

    We wake up for an early morning breakfast as we will have a long trekking day on this day as well. Following the short river route, we ascent on a steep hill to reach a pass. After lunch, we continue crossing several passes, going uphill and downhill until we reach the Tetang village at 3040 m. Our team will prepare a nutritious dinner and set up a tented camp for the night.

    Altitude 3040
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Camping
  • 19
    Trek From Tetang To Muktinath (3700 M)

    Passing numerous decorated Mani walls, we walk through the village to climb up to a wide valley. After a small ascent, we reach a pass that reveals the stunning views of mountains and the serene Muktinath temple. After walking for a few hours keeping the dramatic landscapes in the sight, we reach the holy Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus as well as Buddhists. 

    Altitude 3700
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Camping
  • 20
    Trek From Muktinath To Jomsom (2720 M)

    The morning at Muktinath is spiritual and awakening. After breakfast, we head downwards to Jharkot village where we have the opportunity to visit the Shakyamuni monastery. Then, following the windy and dusty road until the Kaligandaki river, crossing a few suspension bridges, we reach Jomsom and spend our night in a cozy lodge.

    Altitude 2720
    Meals BLD
    Accommodation Lodge/Teahouses
  • 21
    Fly From Jomsom To Pokhara (822 M)

    One of the most beautiful flights in Nepal is Jomsom to Pokhara as it offers some mind-blowing views of the huge mountain range including the Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Machapuchhre along with many smaller peaks. Upon landing at Pokhara, you are free to go sightseeing in the nearby tourist attractions. 

    Altitude 822
    Meals Breakfast
    Accommodation 3-5 Star Hotel
  • 22
     Fly Back To Kathmandu And Enjoy Farewell Dinner

    After exploring the wonderful city of Pokhara, we head back to Kathmandu via a short domestic flight. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you can go sightseeing or shop for souvenirs. The evening dinner will be hosted by the Eight K company for all our trekkers and staff. 

    Altitude 1400
    Meals Breakfast And Farewell Dinner
    Accommodation 3-5 Star Hotel
  • 23
    Final Departure

    We thank you for the opportunity to travel to our beautiful destinations with you. We wish for a safe journey back home. One of our representatives will drop you off at the airport for your scheduled departure. 

    Altitude 1400
    Meals Breakfast
    Accommodation N/A

Want to customize your own trip?

PERSONALIZE YOUR TRIP

Includes

  • Airport pickup and drop off in a private car as per schedule.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu & Pokhara on a bed and breakfast basis.
  • As per the schedule, meals during the trek from Jomson to Jomson include Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea, or Coffee (3 cups of tea in a day).
  • All the necessary paper works and conversation entry permits.
  • Special trekking Permit US$500/- per person for 10 days (The above price includes 10 days valid trekking permit from Kagbeni to Kagbeni).
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Fee.
  • TIMS card
  • Pokhara-Jomson-Pokhara-Kathmandu flight fare.
  • Kathmandu-Pokhara tourist Bus.
  • Accommodations in lodges/tea houses (Twin beds basic sharing).
  • An experienced Government licensed guide with fluent English
  • 01 porter for 02 members for carrying personal gear.
  • Salary, Food, Accommodation, Transportation and Insurance for the Guide and Porters.
  • Emergency oxygen bottle with mask regulator (If used, the additional cost of oxygen).
  • Medical basic kit (Please consult your doctor and prepare medicine for yourself).
  • Farewell dinner with typical Nepali restaurant.
  • Nepal government taxes & company service charge.

Excludes

  • International airfares.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
  • Personal clothing & equipment.
  • Nepal entry visa fee.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Rescue evacuation in case of need.
  • Personal Expenses.
  • Any kinds of Alcohol drinks, cold drinks, phone calls, internet, battery charging and laundry on trek.
  • Bottle or boiled water during the trek.
  • Tips for Guide and porter.
  • Jeep or bus if you use on the way to Lo-Manthang (If you plan to take Jeep or Bus).
  • Horse or jeep etc. if you use it during Lo-Manthang Sightseeing.
  • Entrance fees in the monastery, temple in Kathmandu or Pokhara and during the trek.

Trip Notes

Please do remember these things.

We schedule our trips in the most favorable seasons. However, the above-mentioned itinerary may change as per the expedition’s obstructions but the quality of our service is guaranteed.  In case of a delayed flight, we are obliged to inform you that besides the total number of days included in the itinerary, clients are compelled to bear the expenses of the extra days themselves.  Apparently, 8k Expeditions will assist necessary arrangements for your comfort. 

 

Trekkers are advised to schedule their flights at convenient time frames as we shall not be responsible for missed international flights or luggage before our reception. You are also suggested not to carry insignificant materials for your own ease. 

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE DAMODAR KUNDA TREK

 

What is the Damodar Kunda Trek in Nepal?

The Damodar Kunda Trek is a sacred high-altitude trekking journey in the Upper Mustang region of Nepal. It takes trekkers to Damodar Kunda, a holy lake situated at approximately 4,890 meters (16,043 feet). The trek combines Himalayan scenery, remote landscapes, traditional Mustang culture, and spiritual significance for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims.

 

How high is Damodar Kunda Lake?

Damodar Kunda Lake is located at approximately 4,890 meters (16,043 feet) above sea level. Due to the high altitude, trekkers should prepare for cold temperatures, strong winds, and reduced oxygen levels. Proper acclimatization, suitable clothing, and a gradual trekking itinerary are important for a safe journey.

 

How many days does the Damodar Kunda Trek take?

The Kunda Trek package is advertised as a 21-day journey, including travel arrangements and the trekking itinerary. The actual walking days depend on the planned route, acclimatization schedule, weather and transportation arrangements. Trekkers should review the detailed itinerary before booking.

 

Where is Damodar Kunda located?

Damodar Kunda is situated in the remote Upper Mustang region of north-central Nepal, within the Damodarkunda area. The region is known for its high-altitude landscapes, Tibetan-influenced culture, ancient monasteries, and traditional settlements. Reaching the lake requires careful planning and the appropriate trekking permits.

 

Why is Damodar Kunda considered sacred?

Damodar Kunda holds religious significance for Hindu and Buddhist communities. Hindu traditions associate the lake with Lord Krishna, while the wider Himalayan region has longstanding Buddhist spiritual traditions. Pilgrims visit the lake for prayer, reflection and religious observances, making the trek both a cultural journey and an outdoor adventure. 

 

What is the best time to do the Damodar Kunda Trek?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally favorable seasons for trekking in Nepal. Conditions at Damodar Kunda can vary because of its high altitude and remote location. Weather, snow, trail conditions and access should be checked before departure, particularly for travel during the monsoon.

 

Is the Damodar Kunda Trek difficult?

The Damodar Kunda Trek is a demanding high-altitude journey because of its elevation, remote terrain, potentially long walking days and limited facilities in some sections. Previous trekking experience, good physical fitness, suitable equipment and appropriate acclimatization are recommended. The difficulty can vary according to the itinerary and prevailing conditions.

 

Do I need a special permit for the Damodar Kunda Trek?

Yes, the route enters the restricted Upper Mustang area, so foreign trekkers generally need a Restricted Area Permit arranged through an authorized trekking agency. An Annapurna Conservation Area Permit may also be required for the route. Permit requirements and fees should be confirmed before departure. 

 

How much does the Damodar Kunda Trek cost?

The cost of the Damodar Kunda Trek depends on the package, group size, permits, transportation, accommodation, meals, guide and porter services and camping arrangements. The services including domestic flights, trekking accommodation, meals during specified trekking days and permit arrangements. 

 

What is included in the 8K Expeditions Damodar Kunda Trek package?

The package includes airport transfers, scheduled accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara, meals during the specified trekking period, a licensed English-speaking guide, a porter-sharing arrangement, relevant permit arrangements, domestic flights, bus transportation and trekking accommodation. 

 

What accommodation is available during the Damodar Kunda Trek?

Accommodation depends on the section of the route. The package lists hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara and twin-sharing lodge or teahouse accommodation during the trek. Facilities may be basic in remote areas. Trekkers should confirm whether camping is required for particular sections of the current itinerary.

 

Do I need previous trekking experience for Damodar Kunda?

Previous high-altitude trekking experience is beneficial but the suitability of the trek depends on your fitness, health, preparation and ability to handle remote conditions. Trekkers should train with regular hiking, uphill walking and endurance activities before departure.   

 

What should I pack for the Damodar Kunda Trek?

Pack layered thermal clothing, an insulated down jacket, a waterproof and windproof outer layer, sturdy trekking boots, warm socks, gloves, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a sleeping bag suitable for expected temperatures, a headlamp, a reusable water bottle and personal medication. Your final equipment list should reflect the season and whether camping equipment is supplied by the operator.

 

Is the Damodar Kunda Trek suitable for solo travelers?

Solo travelers can inquire about joining an organized trip or arranging a private trek. Because the route enters a restricted region and crosses remote high-altitude terrain, permit arrangements, authorized guiding and applicable group requirements must be confirmed with the trekking operator before booking.

 

How can I book the Damodar Kunda Trek with 8K Expeditions?

You can book by contacting the company to confirm availability, departure dates, pricing and package inclusions. Share your preferred travel dates and group size to receive a suitable itinerary and quotation.

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