SARIBUNG LA: THE ULTIMATE HIMALAYAN CROSSING

Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Shailung Trails & Trekking will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After checking in, you can rest following your international journey or explore the surrounding neighbourhood at your own pace. Depending on your arrival time, the team will provide an introduction to the expedition, discuss the planned route and explain the importance of acclimatisation, weather awareness and preparation for remote camping. Kathmandu is the starting point for your journey into the heart of the Himalayas. Day highlights Airport pickup and hotel transfer. Welcome and introduction to Shailung Trails. First views of Nepal's vibrant capital. Initial discussion of the Saribung expedition.

Today is dedicated to expedition preparation. The team will review the itinerary, confirm permits, check essential equipment and explain the arrangements for transportation, accommodation, meals and camping support. Your guide should assess whether your personal equipment is appropriate for the expected conditions, including cold temperatures and possible glacier travel. Important items include suitable trekking boots, warm insulated clothing, waterproof layers, a sleeping bag appropriate for high-altitude camping, headlamp, sunglasses, sun protection and personal medication. Where glacier travel is expected, the expedition leader must confirm the appropriate technical equipment and training arrangements. You may also use the day to explore Kathmandu's cultural heritage, depending on permit arrangements and the team's schedule. Day highlights Expedition briefing and route orientation. Personal equipment inspection. Permit and documentation checks. Discussion of altitude-related risks. Preparation for the journey to Mustang.

After breakfast, travel west from Kathmandu towards Pokhara, a beautiful city surrounded by hills and Himalayan landscapes. The road journey follows river valleys and winding mountain roads, passing rural settlements, terraced farmland and riverside communities. Pokhara is an important gateway for trekking in the Annapurna and Mustang regions. The city offers a more relaxed atmosphere than Kathmandu and provides an opportunity to rest before travelling towards the mountains. Depending on the schedule, you may enjoy views of Phewa Lake and the surrounding hills. Day highlights Scenic road journey across central Nepal. Views of rivers, hills and rural settlements. Arrival in Pokhara. Final preparation for the flight or road journey to Jomsom.

The day begins with a flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, weather permitting. The flight offers an impressive introduction to the Annapurna and Mustang landscapes. After arriving in Jomsom, meet the trekking support team and begin walking towards Kagbeni. The trail passes through a dry Himalayan environment shaped by wind, erosion and the Kali Gandaki valley. The scenery is markedly different from Nepal's greener middle hills. Kagbeni is a historic settlement with traditional architecture, narrow lanes and a strong connection to Himalayan Buddhist culture. It is also a key gateway to Upper Mustang. Use the afternoon to settle into the village and prepare for the first stages of the trek. Day highlights Mountain flight to Jomsom, subject to weather. First views of the Mustang landscape. Walk beside the Kali Gandaki valley. Explore the historic settlement of Kagbeni. Introduction to the culture and architecture of Upper Mustang.

After breakfast, enter the restricted Upper Mustang region, following the approved route and permit conditions. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki corridor through a striking landscape of barren hills, weathered cliffs and small traditional settlements. As you walk north, the scenery becomes increasingly desert-like. The surrounding rock formations display shades of red, brown, grey and ochre, creating a dramatic contrast with the blue Himalayan sky. The trail gradually gains elevation before reaching Chele, a traditional Mustang settlement overlooking the surrounding valley Day highlights Enter the Upper Mustang trekking region. Explore the distinctive Himalayan desert landscape. Observe traditional villages and agricultural terraces. Photograph dramatic cliffs and eroded rock formations. Begin acclimatising to higher elevations

Today's trail climbs through the rugged terrain of Upper Mustang, crossing dry slopes and mountain passes before descending into traditional settlements. The route includes exposed sections where wind and sunlight can be intense. Walking at a steady pace, drinking regularly and avoiding unnecessary rushing will help you manage the increasing altitude. Along the way, you may see chortens, mani walls, cultivated land and settlements that reflect the area's Tibetan-influenced cultural heritage. Syangboche provides an important overnight stop as the trek progresses deeper into Mustang. Day highlights Dramatic mountain passes and valley views. Traditional Mustang architecture. Buddhist cultural features along the route. Increasingly expansive views across the dry Himalayan landscape. Gradual altitude acclimatisation

Continue through the magnificent landscapes of Upper Mustang, passing traditional villages, ancient religious structures and open valleys. The trail offers an opportunity to appreciate the region's distinctive combination of arid mountain scenery and centuries-old Buddhist traditions. Charang, also known as Tsarang, is an important historic settlement featuring traditional houses and religious heritage. Its surroundings provide excellent opportunities to observe the relationship between village life, agriculture and the harsh mountain environment. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the settlement and enjoy views across the surrounding hills. Day highlights Walk through traditional Mustang settlements. Discover ancient Buddhist cultural landmarks. Photograph dramatic rock formations. Experience the quiet atmosphere of the high desert. Arrive in historic Charang.

Today you travel towards Lo Manthang, one of the most celebrated cultural destinations in Upper Mustang. The trail crosses open terrain and follows routes used for generations by local communities. The surrounding landscape reveals vast valleys, barren ridges and distinctive formations created by wind and erosion. Lo Manthang is renowned for its historic walled settlement, traditional buildings and Buddhist heritage. Its architecture and cultural traditions reflect long-standing connections across the Himalayan region. After arrival, check into your accommodation and enjoy an introduction to the settlement. Day highlights Arrival in the historic walled city of Lo Manthang. Traditional architecture and narrow lanes. Mountain desert scenery. Tibetan-influenced cultural heritage. Opportunity to explore the settlement on foot.

Explore Lo Manthang's traditional streets, historic religious sites and surrounding landscapes with your guide. Subject to opening arrangements and local permission, visits to monasteries and other cultural landmarks may be organised. An excursion towards Chhoser and its historic cave landscapes may also be possible if conditions, transport and the schedule allow. This day is important because the upcoming stages become more remote and involve substantially higher elevations. Acclimatisation is not simply a rest day. It provides an opportunity to observe how your body responds to altitude before proceeding towards the high plateau. Day highlights Explore the cultural heritage of Lo Manthang. Visit monasteries or local landmarks where permitted. Optional excursion towards Chhoser. Photography of traditional Mustang architecture. Rest and acclimatisation before the remote camping stages.

Leaving Lo Manthang, the expedition heads towards Yara, a traditional settlement surrounded by dramatic cliffs and dry Himalayan valleys. The landscape gradually becomes more remote, with fewer facilities and longer stretches between settlements. Yara is known for its distinctive surroundings and access to the remarkable Luri Gompa area. The region is especially attractive to travellers interested in ancient Buddhist heritage and the geological features of Upper Mustang. Today's walk marks the transition from the established Upper Mustang village route towards the more isolated terrain leading to Damodar Kunda. Day highlights Leave the historic capital of Upper Mustang. Walk through remote valleys and eroded cliffs. Discover traditional settlement landscapes. Prepare for the transition to expedition camping Enjoy a quieter and less-travelled part of Mustang.

Today focuses on the remarkable cultural heritage around Yara and Luri Gompa. Luri Gompa is associated with cave-based Buddhist religious heritage and is one of the distinctive cultural attractions in this part of Upper Mustang. The journey offers an opportunity to appreciate the relationship between religious life, the surrounding landscape and traditional Himalayan communities. The exact walking route depends on the condition of local trails and the agreed itinerary. Your guide will confirm the appropriate route and visiting arrangements. Use the afternoon to organise equipment for the increasingly remote stages ahead. Day highlights Explore the Luri Gompa area. Discover ancient cave-monastery heritage. Photograph unusual rock formations and cliffs. Learn about local Buddhist traditions. Prepare for the high-altitude camping stages

Today the trek enters a remote high-altitude landscape where settlements become increasingly scarce. The route crosses dry valleys and rugged terrain before reaching Ghuma Thanti, a remote camping area used on some Saribung expedition itineraries. At this elevation, walking becomes more physically demanding. Even moderate inclines may feel strenuous, so a steady pace and regular breaks are essential. There may be limited shelter or services along the way. The expedition team must manage water, food, tents and essential equipment carefully. Day highlights Enter the remote high-altitude wilderness. Wide-open Himalayan plateau scenery. Increasingly isolated mountain landscapes. Experience the transition to expedition-style camping. Begin adapting to the challenges of higher elevations

Continue through a remote section of the Mustang plateau, following a route shaped by mountain valleys, rocky ridges and seasonal watercourses. The landscape becomes more austere as the trail approaches the higher terrain associated with Damodar Kunda and Saribung. There may be long stretches without villages or reliable facilities. The expedition team must identify suitable water sources and safe camping ground before the group arrives. The combination of elevation, exposure and isolation makes this a significant stage of the expedition. Day highlights Remote high-altitude trekking. Dramatic views across the Mustang plateau. Rugged mountain terrain and broad valleys. Increasing proximity to Damodar Kunda. Expedition camping far from established settlements.

Today's journey leads towards Damodar Kunda, one of the most significant spiritual destinations of the expedition. Located in a remote high-altitude environment, the sacred lakes are associated with Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage traditions. The surrounding scenery is stark and magnificent. Open terrain, distant mountain ridges and the stillness of the high plateau create a strong feeling of isolation. On arrival, the team establishes camp at a suitable location. Visitors should follow their guide's instructions and treat the sacred landscape respectfully. The time available for exploring the lakes depends on weather, daylight and the group's physical condition. Day highlights Arrival at sacred Damodar Kunda. Discover a remote Himalayan pilgrimage landscape. Mountain views across the high plateau. Photography of the lakes and surrounding wilderness. Opportunity for quiet reflection in a sacred setting.

This is a vital preparation day before proceeding towards the higher camps. The guide assesses the group's physical condition, weather forecasts, snow conditions and the overall feasibility of crossing Saribung La. The team also checks clothing, sleeping equipment, headlamps, boots and technical equipment required for the route. If glacier travel is planned, the guide must confirm that each participant has the necessary equipment and skills. Any refresher training should be conducted in an appropriate location before entering exposed terrain. Rest, hydration, nutrition and careful monitoring for symptoms of altitude illness are priorities. Day highlights Acclimatisation at high altitude. Review of weather and route conditions. Equipment checks and packing. Preparation for cold overnight temperatures. Assessment of readiness for the high camps

Leaving Damodar Kunda, the expedition moves towards the high mountain terrain beneath Saribung La. The route may cross rocky ground, moraine and glacial debris. At this altitude, progress is slower and the group must maintain a careful pace. The landscape becomes increasingly stark, with distant snow-covered mountains and an exposed environment where wind and cold can be severe. On arrival, the support team identifies suitable ground for camp, checks water arrangements and prepares for the next stage. Day highlights Leaving Damodar Kunda, the expedition moves towards the high mountain terrain beneath Saribung La. The route may cross rocky ground, moraine and glacial debris. At this altitude, progress is slower and the group must maintain a careful pace. The landscape becomes increasingly stark, with distant snow-covered mountains and an exposed environment where wind and cold can be severe. On arrival, the support team identifies suitable ground for camp, checks water arrangements and prepares for the next stage. Day highlights Trek towards the Saribung high-mountain zone. Remote glacial and rocky landscapes. Views of surrounding Himalayan peaks. Experience of high-altitude expedition camping. Preparation for the pass-crossing stage

This day provides additional time for acclimatisation, route preparation and assessment before the pass crossing. The guide evaluates weather conditions, snow stability, visibility and the physical condition of the group. A safe crossing depends on the combined assessment of these factors rather than the itinerary alone. Participants should organise their daypack, insulating layers, waterproof clothing, gloves, goggles, headlamp and essential personal items. Technical equipment requirements depend on the actual route conditions. Where glacier travel is necessary, the team must confirm that suitable equipment and competent leadership are available. If conditions are unfavourable, the crossing must be postponed or abandoned. A reserve day later in the itinerary is important. Day highlights Additional acclimatisation. Weather and route assessment. Technical equipment checks. Review of the crossing plan and turnaround criteria. Preparation for a demanding high-altitude day.

This is the defining day of the Saribung La expedition and may be the most demanding day of the entire journey. The team generally starts early, when conditions permit, to maximise the available daylight and reduce exposure to afternoon weather changes. The route climbs through high mountain terrain towards Saribung La. Snow, ice, loose rock, strong winds and reduced oxygen levels can make the ascent extremely strenuous. At approximately 6,042 metres, Saribung La offers an extraordinary sense of scale and isolation. The pass connects two remote Himalayan regions and marks the culmination of the expedition's most challenging physical effort. The descent on the Nar–Phu side requires equal care. Tiredness, changing snow conditions and the steepness of the terrain can increase the risk of slips and falls. The group continues towards a safe, pre-assessed campsite only while conditions and the participants' physical state allow. Day highlights The high-altitude crossing of Saribung La. Panoramic Himalayan wilderness. A remarkable transition from Upper Mustang towards Nar–Phu. Challenging snow, ice or rocky terrain, depending on conditions. Achievement of a major expedition mileston Importain Note: "This is not a guaranteed summit or crossing day. The guide must postpone, change or cancel the crossing if conditions are unsafe".

After the pass crossing, the journey continues into the remote Nar–Phu region. The terrain gradually transitions towards mountain valleys and landscapes associated with traditional Himalayan settlements. The group should maintain a controlled pace, as fatigue from the previous day may remain significant. Phu Gaon is one of the most distinctive settlements in the region, with traditional stone houses, Buddhist cultural heritage and a dramatic setting beneath surrounding mountains. The arrival provides an opportunity to rest, recover and experience a remote Himalayan community. Day highlights Descend into the Phu Valley. Discover traditional stone-built architecture. Experience the distinctive culture of the Nar–Phu region. Mountain views and remote valley landscapes. Recovery following the high-pass crossing

Today allows time to explore Phu Gaon and recover from the most strenuous section of the expedition. Walk through the village with your guide and learn about traditional architecture, local livelihoods, Buddhist customs and the challenges of living in a remote Himalayan environment. Subject to local arrangements and access, the visit may include cultural landmarks and a monastery. The day also gives the guide an opportunity to monitor the group's recovery and assess readiness for the remaining trekking stages. Day highlights Cultural exploration of Phu Gaon. Traditional Himalayan village life. Buddhist heritage and local architecture. Recovery after the Saribung crossing. Photography of the dramatic surrounding mountains.

Leaving Phu Gaon, descend through the rugged terrain of the Nar–Phu Valley. The trail follows remote mountain slopes and river valleys, passing landscapes that highlight the region's isolation and natural beauty. As the route loses elevation, walking may become more comfortable, although the terrain can remain uneven and demanding. Meta is an important stop on the return route towards the Annapurna region. The surrounding landscape offers views of barren hills, cliffs and mountain ridges. Day highlights Descend through the Nar–Phu Valley. Explore remote Himalayan terrain. Views of dramatic cliffs and mountain slopes. Gradual return towards more established trekking routes. Overnight in the Meta area.

Today's walk continues downhill towards Koto, where the Nar–Phu route connects with the Annapurna trekking corridor. The landscape gradually changes as the trail descends through valleys, forested sections and traditional settlements. After days in remote, high-altitude terrain, the return to established villages and trekking facilities provides a welcome change. Koto is the main trekking endpoint for this itinerary. Here, the expedition team can prepare for the road journey towards Kathmandu. Day highlights Descend towards the Annapurna region. Changing mountain vegetation and landscapes. Return to a more established trekking corridor. Arrival in Koto. Completion of the main trekking route

After breakfast, begin the return journey towards Kathmandu by road. The exact transfer arrangement depends on vehicle availability, road conditions and the operating team's plan. Depending on the route, the journey may pass through Besisahar and connect with the main highway towards Kathmandu. Expect changing scenery, from mountain valleys and rural settlements to the busier towns and traffic of central Nepal. Because road travel in Nepal can be affected by construction, congestion and weather, the arrival time should be treated as approximate. Day highlight Return journey from the Annapurna region. Views of Nepal's mountain valleys and rural landscapes. Transition from remote trekking country to Kathmandu. Arrival at the hotel and time to rest.

This day provides flexibility after the expedition and allows time for rest, personal activities or optional cultural sightseeing. If the trekking itinerary has proceeded as planned, you may explore Kathmandu's cultural attractions, visit local markets or enjoy a relaxed meal. This day is also an important contingency buffer. Flight delays, road disruptions, difficult mountain weather or changes to the Saribung crossing can affect the overall schedule. A responsible operator should avoid making the international departure depend on an uncertain mountain crossing or an extremely tight road-transfer schedule. Day highlights Rest after the expedition. Optional cultural sightseeing. Shopping for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. Time to reflect on the journey. Additional flexibility for unexpected delays.

After breakfast, or according to your flight schedule, a representative from Shailung Trails & Trekking will arrange your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport. As you leave Nepal, you take home memories of ancient Mustang settlements, sacred mountain lakes, dramatic Himalayan landscapes and the challenging crossing of Saribung La. Thank you for travelling with Shailung Trails & Trekking. We hope your journey has provided a meaningful connection with Nepal's mountains, cultures and extraordinary wilderness. Day highlights Final assistance with departure arrangements. Airport transfer. Farewell to Nepal. End of the Saribung La Himalayan expedition.