Saribung Peak Climbing

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  • Duration 24 Days
  • Trip Grade Strenuous
  • Country Nepal

Saribung Peak climbing is one of the greatest adventures in Nepal. It is a beginner-friendly trekking peak that stands 6,328 meters (20,761 ft) above sea level. Climbing this peak allows you to explore the gem of the western Himalayas, the Upper Mustang, the holy Damodar Lake, and the exclusive Nar Phu Valley.

On the Saribung Peak climbing 24 days, you will travel far northwest in the complete wilderness that is rarely visited by trekkers. The journey will present you jaw-dropping views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges along with other mountains like Nilgiri, Fishtail, Damodar Himal, Bhrikuti Himal, etc.

You will begin the journey from Kathmandu, Nepal. Travel to Pokhara and take a scenic short flight to Jomsom. From here, you will start trekking to Lo Manthang, the last forbidden kingdom in Nepal. It will take you five days to walk to Lo Manthang from Jomsom.

The trekking part is essential to acclimatization and avoiding altitude sickness during climbing. We also have an acclimatization day at Lo Manthang. You will then trek via the remotest corners of Upper Mustang, like Yara, Luri Gompa, Gyuma Thanti, and Namta Khola, to reach Damodar Lake.

Enjoy the serenity of this isolated lake, then climb to Saribung Peak Base Camp the next day. The following day, ascend to Saribung Peak High Camp and wait for the perfect summit window. On the way, you will cross the Saribung Pass and climb to the top. Return to base camp and descend to Phedi the day you summit Saribung Peak.

From Phedi, you will traverse the Nar Phu Valley. The trail descends to Nagoru from Phedi. From here, you will trek to Phu Gaon. We are not trekking to Nar Gaon, but you can extend your trip by 1-2 days. Follow a sharp downhill trail from Phu Gaon to Meta and descend to Jagat via Koto, where the walking part ends.

You will drive back from Jagat to Kathmandu via Besisahar. It will be a comfortable and scenic ride. We have left one free day in Kathmandu, which allows you to rest and shop before flying home the next day.

Altitude Sickness

The Saribung Peak climbing expedition will take you up to 6,328 meters above sea level. Although you will not spend over 20 minutes at this height, you will be exposed to a very high elevation. So, you have to be acclimatized before you go above 5,000 meters.

We have designed our Saribung Peak climbing itinerary to allow you to adjust to the elevation before you reach Saribung Peak Base Camp, located at 5,250 meters (17,224 ft).

You will spend 11 days trekking before reaching the base camp. During this duration, we will gradually expose you to varying elevations and also spend an acclimatization day in Lo Manthang.

From the Saribung Peak Base Camp, you will reach the summit and return in just two days. The elevation gain will be drastic in these two days, but you will be able to handle it. If you experience altitude sickness, our guide will help you treat it.

  • Symptoms: Headache, vomiting, nausea, dizziness, insomnia, difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, etc.
  • Preventive measures: Ascend slowly, maintain your pace, drink at least 2 liters of water and other fluids a day, get ample rest, eat carbohydrate-rich food to keep up with your energy, and enjoy the trek.

Sherpa guide and porters

The team leader will be the Sherpa guide. You will follow in his footsteps to reach the top of Saribung Peak. He is responsible for the group's safety, so we request our guests to follow his instructions while climbing.

We will provide you with an experienced Sherpa guide who has climbed Saribung Peak many times before. There will be no communication gap as all of our on-field crew can speak English. The guide will provide pre-climbing training before the summit push to boost your confidence.

Porters carry duffel bags and take care of base camp and high camp chores like setting tents and cooking food. They work behind the scenes, making the journey hassle-free for you.

*Note: *Note: Your guide and porter play a huge role in the success and satisfaction of your Saribung Peak expedition. So, we highly recommend that you tip them generously for their hard work. Tipping guides and porters are a well-appreciated part of Nepal's culture.

Climbing experience and preparation for Saribung Peak

Saribung Peak is for beginner climbers, so you do not necessarily need previous climbing experience. However, knowledge of climbing will definitely make the journey more manageable for you.

Saribung Peak is not a technical mountain, but the physical and mental demands are extensive. You have to do treks like Everest Three Passes, Kanchenjunga Circuit, Manasu Circuit, etc. Previous high-altitude experience and exposure to the Himalayan trail are required.

Preparation for peak climbing in the Himalayas depends on your fitness, past experiences, and health. You have to be in optimal physical and mental condition. Strong strength, stamina, endurance, resilience, and willpower are necessary.

Strength training to build your core, aerobic experience to improve your stamina and oxygen intake, yoga for flexibility, balance, breathing, and regular walks are recommended. Make a routine and make yourself strong.

Pre-climbing training: boost your confidence and hone your climbing skills

Pre-climbing training is one of the major perks climbers get with us. At the Saribung Peak Base Camp, your team leader will teach you basic climbing skills and make you aware of mountaineering terms.

The training will make you mountain smart and boost your confidence. You will also learn about the Saribung Peak summit route and how you are going to approach it.

Climbing emergency and evacuation

Climbing in the Himalayas is risky. It is a fact. But, when you travel with experienced Sherpa guides who have summited the mountains several times before and firsthand experienced all the possible odds, the journey suddenly becomes much safer.

We have tested emergency and evacuation protocols that guarantee your safe return to Kathmandu. Our risks are well calculated, and we will not do anything that may jeopardize your safety. Our crew and guests' safety is our top priority during peak climbing.

During your trip, our rescue team is on standby. We regularly check the weather and update the team leader via satellite phone. The climbing routes are fixed with ropes, and you will learn everything required for a successful summit.

In an emergency, the team leader will inform us, and we will take quick action accordingly. If required, the rescue team will reach your location promptly. With us, you are traveling safely in the Himalayas.

Highlights

  • Embark on one of the greatest adventures in Nepal
  • A non-technical peak, perfect for beginner climbers
  • Explore the beauty of Upper Mustang, hike to the holy Damodar Lake, and visit Nar Phu Valley
  • Get pre-climbing training from our Sherpa guide and hone your climbing skills
  • Witness stunning landscapes and jaw-dropping mountain vistas
  • Explore many ancient monasteries, stupas, sky caves, and other Himalayan landmarks
  • Reach the summit of Saribung Peak and unlock a huge achievement

Why climb Saribung Peak with the Himalayak Trekking?

We have already discussed our on-field crew and emergency protocol. Now, let's discuss the services and experiences that make us a perfect peak climbing partner in Nepal. We have been mapping the Himalayas and climbing peaks for several years now.

Our team has firsthand experience on Saribung Peak and all other major trekking peaks. Our safety plan, support, and team increase the success rate of the summit. You will get full board service at the base camp and high camp.

Everything will be arranged according to your liking and top Alpine standards. There will be no lack of quality of service. Likewise, you will get the best Saribung Peak climbing cost with us. The bookings are open for Saribung Peak climbing 2024/205 departures.

Itinerary
Trip Plan
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Himalayak Trekking representatives will welcome you at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. They will escort you to the hotel. Unpack and get some rest. Later in the day, join the trek briefing and pack your duffle bags.

  • Accommodation: Hotel

You will drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara following a smooth highway. The ride offers stunning scenery of lush hills, rivers, waterfalls, and terraced fields. You will also see mountain views during the ride. Spend the evening enjoying the beautiful sunset at Phewa Lake.

  • Max Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast and lunch
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 6-7 hours
  • Distance: 205 km/127 miles

Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom in the morning. It will be a short but very scenic flight. From Jomsom, you will follow rugged hillsides and trek to Kagbeni.

  • Max Altitude: 2,800 m/9,186 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 25 minutes flight & 3 hours trek

The trail follows the upper route to Samar village and enters Upper Mustang. Enjoy arid scenery and walk on steep, rocky tracks. You will trek through villages like Tangbe, Chuksang, and Tsaile on the way to Samar.

  • Max Altitude: 3,650 m/11,975 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 5-6 hours

Leaving Samar, ascend to a ridge and follow a downhill route from here into a large gorge. You will then trek through the gorge filled with juniper trees and cross a stream. The trail ascends and descends to Syangbochen and passes by barley fields to Ghiling.

  • Max Altitude: 3,510 m/11,515 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 5 hours

From Ghiling, you will follow an uphill route to the Nyi La (4,010 m) pass. From here, the trail descends to Ghami village and continues to Dhakmar.

  • Max Altitude: 3,820 m/12,533 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 5 hours

Continuing from Dhakmar, the trail takes you to Ghar Gompa. It is one of the very old monasteries in Nepal. From here, ascend to Ghar La (4,200 m) and gradually descend to Lo Manthang village. On the way, you will walk along a long mani wall and pass by stupas and chortens.

  • Max Altitude: 3,840 m/12,598 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6-7 hours

Spend a rest day in Lo Manthang and explore this village and its surrounding area. Visit the Tall Champa Lhakhang, Thugchen Gompa, Chyodi Gompa, and the Entrance Hall later in Lo Manthang. Hike to Namgyal Gompa, situated on a hilltop. Also, visit the famous centuries-old sky caves.

  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea house

After a delicious breakfast, start trekking from Lo Manthang and ascend to Lo La Pass. The trail then descends to Dhi Gaon and follows a rugged track to Yara. This settlement is located on the top of a hill, so mountain views are excellent from here.

  • Max Altitude: 3,838 m/12,592 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6 hours

The trail continues from Yara to Luri Gompa. After a warm breakfast, start trekking. Follow a rugged, isolated trail and ascend to Luri Gompa, located at the top of the cliff.

  • Max Altitude: 3,950 m/12,959 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Duration: 4-5 hours

You now continue walking towards Saribung Peak. On this day, the trail takes you to Gyuma Thanti for the night. You will walk through a large pastureland and follow a downhill route.

  • Max Altitude: 4,600 m/15,091 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Duration: 5-6 hours

Leaving Gyuma, you will follow a strenuous track and ascend to Kyuma La (53,00 m) and Batsyak La (5,450 m). Crossing these passes, you will descend to Namta Khola for the night stay.

  • Max Altitude: 4,890 m/16,043 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Duration: 7-8 hours

Today, you will hike to the holy Damodar Kunda. The trail continues along the north side of Namta Khola and takes you to the Japanese Base Camp. From here, you will walk up to the lake.

  • Max Altitude: 4,890 m/16,043 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Duration: 2-3 hours

The terrain from Damodar Kunda to Saribung Base Camp resembles the Tibetan Plateau. You will walk on an isolated route through the glacial moraine and ascend to the base camp.

  • Max Altitude: 5,250 m/17,224 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Duration: 4 hours

From the base camp, you will ascend to Saribung High Camp. The trail is isolated and rocky. You will also walk in the snow and via moraine. The climb will be a bit challenging, but we will take our time and enjoy the journey. Our team will set up the tents.

  • Max Altitude: 5,720 m/18,766 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Duration: 4-5 hours

This is going to be a long day. You will start climbing from Saribung High Camp around 1:00 AM. Climb on rocky and steep slopes, enjoying magnificent mountain views.

You will cross the Saribung Pass and climb to the Saribung summit. The view from the top of the peak will leave you in awe. After that, you will descend, following the same route to Phedi for the night stay.

  • Max Altitude: 6,328 m/20,761 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Duration: 10-11 hours

The trail descends from Phedi to Nagoru following a stream. You may walk on snow-covered trails and a mountain. As the trail ascends and descends, you will see wonderful landscapes.

  • Max Altitude: 4,650 m/15,256 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Duration: 5-6 hours

Leaving Nagoru, you will follow an isolated trail to Phu Gaon. The trail steeply ascends and passes by an astonishing balcony track. Enjoy arid landscapes on the way. In Phu, you will explore Tashi Lakhang Monastery and flat-roof mud houses.

  • Max Altitude: 4,080 m/13,386 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 5-6 hours

The trail continues across the highland and crosses the gate at the end of the Phu village. From here, you will follow a steep descent to Kyang. On the way, you can see the ruins of the Khampa settlement. From Kyang, the trail goes downhill through a forested route to Meta.

  • Max Altitude: 3,560 m/11,679 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 5-6 hours

Leaving Meta village, the trail steeply descends through pine forests. You will pass by several beautiful streams and waterfalls along the trail. Likewise, cross a few suspension bridges. The trail goes along the Naar Khola to Koto.

  • Max Altitude: 2,600 m/8,530 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6-7 hours

Start trekking Koto early in the morning and gradually descend to Jagat. The trail goes through lovely small settlements and dense forests.

  • Max Altitude: 1,300 m/4,265 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6 hours

You will drive from Jagat to Besisahar. The ride will be bumpy but very beautiful. At Besisahar, change your vehicle to a tourist standard comfortable bus or car and drive to Kathmandu. It will be a smooth, scenic ride.

  • Max Altitude: 1,350 m/4,429 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 8-10 hours

We have kept a full day in Kathmandu after the trek to allow you to rest and recover. Explore the local market and visit a few tourist sites. Buy souvenirs and taste local food.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel

You will fly back to your home on this day. Our representative will drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight schedule.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
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Essential Info

Saribung Peak Climbing difficulty

Climbing Saribung Peak is physically and mentally very challenging. However, it is not a technical mountain, so if you are a beginner climber, you may consider climbing it. The route to the summit is straightforward and requires very basic technical efforts.

According to the French and Swiss Alpine Climbing Classification Systems, Saribung Peak is graded PD. Its high altitude and exposure to sun and cold wind make climbing demanding.

Likewise, before the summit push, you will cross two mountain passes, Kang La and Saribung La. These passes are difficult to cross, and both are above 5,200 meters. We will use fixed ropes and jumar to climb in some parts of the route.

You do not need previous climbing experience to join Saribung Peak climbing with us, but basic mountaineering skills and knowledge will make your mountain smart and allow you to enjoy the climb to the fullest.

Travel Insurance

To climb Saribung Peak in Nepal, you have to buy travel insurance covering emergency helicopter evacuation and medical bills. It is a compulsory document for foreigners to submit to us before the journey starts.

Failure to provide us with well-covered travel insurance will cancel your expedition. Climbing is risky because of the risks of altitude sickness, injuries, accidents, unpredictable weather, etc.

Helicopter evacuation is the only way we can provide you with immediate medical assistance during an emergency. Rescue operators do not easily agree to organize an evacuation without travel insurance, so please buy travel insurance with the necessary coverage.

The best time to climb Saribung Peak in Nepal

Peak climbing is best from March to mid-June and late September to November. These months have favorable weather for climbing a peak in the Himalayas safely. All the major mountaineering in Nepal's Himalayas happens in these months.

You will have multiple summit windows and a clear sky. The mountain views, vegetation, and climate are also excellent. June to August and December to February are off-seasons for peak climbing.

Accommodation & Meals

During trekking, you will spend nights in teahouses. You will spend nights in alpine tents at the Saribung Peak Peak Base Camp and Saribung Peak Peak High Camp. We provide full board service during peak climbing, which includes all tents, food, and ample base camp staff to take care of all chores.

Throughout the journey, you will have three meals a day. In teahouses, meals are given according to their menu. While climbing, our kitchen staff will prepare and cook meals for you. You will have dishes like dal bhat, soups, chicken curry, eggs, thukpa, porridge, oats, pancakes, and momos.

Buy skanks in Kathmandu and Pokhara for the journey. Bring two water bottles that can keep the liquid inside them warm or cold for long hours. We drink boiled water throughout the journey. Pack some water purification tablets in case you have to drink tap water.

Packing list

Head & Hand

  • Sun Cap
  • Wool/Fleece Hat
  • Balaclava
  • Neck Gaiter/High Neck
  • Lightweight Synthetic Liner Glove
  • Wind Stopper Fleece Gloves
  • Heavy Gloves (Mitten)

Upper Body

  • Short-Sleeved Shirts/T-shirts
  • Lightweight Top/Thermo Coat
  • Midweight Top
  • Synthetic or Fleece Jacket
  • Down Insulated Jacket
  • Gore-Tex Jacket

Lower Body

  • Underwear
  • Lightweight Long Underpants
  • Midweight Long Underpants
  • Trekking Pants
  • Synthetic Insulated Pants
  • Gore-Tex Pants
  • Trekking & Climbing Socks
  • Summit Socks

Technical Devices/Climbing Gears

  • Climbing Helmet
  • Headlamp with Spare Batteries (Petzl/BD)
  • Ice Axe Semi-technical
  • Harness
  • Carabiners (Both Lock & Unlock)
  • Ascenders/Jumar
  • Belay Device (ATC Guide/Figure of 8)
  • Assistant Rope
  • Tape Sling
  • Ice Screw
  • Summit Boot/G2SM
  • Crampons
  • 1 Sleeping Bag: -30 +C to -40 +C
  • Thermarest Cell Foam Mattress
  • Sun/Glacier Glasses UV Protection
  • Snow Goggle UV Protection
  • Extendable Trekking Poles (BD Alpine Flz)

First Aid Kit

  • Sunscreen (-50 Spf)
  • Lips Guard (-20/-50 Spf)
  • Water Purification Tablets
  • Baby Wipes or Wet Towels
  • Toilet Paper
  • Handy Plaster
  • Crack Bandage
  • Tincture
  • Lodine
  • Strepsils
  • Antibiotic
  • Paracetamol
  • Aspirin
  • Sinex
  • Anti-Diarrhea Capsule/Eldoper
  • Brufen/Ibuprofens
  • Diamox
  • Eye Drops
  • Zip-Lock Bags

Toiletries

  • Hand Sanitizers & Hand wash
  • Wet Tissues
  • Toothpaste
  • Toothbrush
  • Bath Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Moisturizers
  • Laundry Soap
  • Garbage Bag

Miscellaneous

  • Swiss Knife
  • Sandals
  • Lightweight Hiking/Trekking Boots
  • Camp Booties
  • Rucksacks (45 - 55 Ltr.)
  • 1 Duffel Bag
  • Water Bottles
  • Thermos/Flask
  • Pee Bottle
  • Pack Towel
  • Umbrella/RainCoat
  • Spare batteries
  • Waterproof Stuff Sacks
  • Satellite Phone (if possible)
  • Solar chargeable power bank (optional)
  • Journal/Pen
  • Book/Board Game
  • Bars & Snacks

Travel Documents

  • Valid Passport
  • Valid Visa
  • 4 PP Size Photo
  • Insurance Paper (Medical & Rescue) & Contact Address
  • Family/Company Contact Number & Address
  • Credit Card
FAQs

Saribung Peak climbing is not technically challenging but physically and mentally very demanding. It is one of the best trekking peaks in Nepal, ideal for those who want to start mountaineering. Climb Saribung Peak to hone your mountaineering skills.

The best times to climb Saribung Peak are March to mid-June and mid-September to November. The weather in the Himalayas is stable in these months, and you will have fantastic visibility. Likewise, the climate is moderate, and the mountain views are stunning.

From the Saribung Peak Base Camp, you will ascend to Saribung Peak High Camp and spend a night there. The next day, you will climb to the summit around 1:00 AM to 2:00 AM to reach the summit just in time to enjoy a beautiful sunrise. On summit day, you will walk for almost 8 to 10 hours.

Yes, you need to hire a guide for Saribung Peak climbing. You cannot climb any peak or mountain in Nepal without a guide and licensed travel like ours. Not only that, but it is not safe at all to climb a mountain alone.

Yes, you can climb Saribung Peak without previous mountaineering experience; however, you must have previous high-altitude experience and strong fitness.

You do not necessarily need to get any climbing training for Saribung Peak. However, if you have access to one, definitely go for it. What you must train for is improving your strength, stamina, and endurance.

Our Saribung Peak climbing itinerary is one of the best examples of traveling to this peak via Upper Mustang. You will fly to Jomsom and trek to Lo Manthang. From here, trek to Damodar Lake and reach Saribung Peak Base Camp in a few hours of walking.

In case of an emergency, we will assess the situation and provide you with first aid or helicopter evacuation. Inform your guide and let him help you. We train our on-field team members to deal with emergencies in the mountains.

It is an organized trip. You will travel with a professional climber and support team who ensure your safety. Both solo female and male climbers can join us for Saribung Peak climbing without any worries.

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