Saribung Peak Climbing

Saribung Peak Climbing or Saribung Expedition is truly an off-the-beaten-path excursion. It adds to its new, untamed allure and mystique location where few people go.

This journey is newer and more interesting than many others. It's a climb up to the magnificent Saribung Peak (6346 m). It lies near the Damodar Mountain Range in a remote section of Mustang. Saribung Peak climbing is a stone's throw from the Tibetan border. 

Saribung Peak Climb, 6346m, is considered a challenging expedition. The journey takes you over an otherworldly landscape of sculpted canyons. Pass through surreal rock formations, medieval villages, and ruined fortresses. Get to visit Tibetan Buddhist gompas, soaring snow peaks, and distinct Himalayan cultures.

The Saribung Peak expedition takes you through Upper Jomsom. Venture past the restricted region of Upper Mustang. Get to explore the strikingly beautiful Nar Phu Valley. You can explore the lonely Hidden Valley. Everything is included in this excellent Saribung Peak Climbing package.

Saribung Peak, off the beaten path, climbing in Nepal

In addition, this newly discovered trekking route crosses the challenging Saribung Pass (6042 m). Saribung Pass is one of the highest passes in Nepal. The trail to the pass is surely not easy, but the views you will get to see from the top of this pass are truly rewarding.

Saribung Peak expedition rewards you with breathtaking views. You see the Himlung Himal (7126m), Nilgiri Himal (7061m), Lamjung Himal (6983m), Mt. Manaslu (8163m), and Annapurna II (7937m) from the summit of Saribung Peak.

The region is also part of the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal's largest protected area and home to Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m), the world's seventh-highest mountain. Tukuche Peak (6920m), Nilgiri South (6839m), Yakwakang Peak (6462m), and Damodar Himal (6004m) are among the 6000m+ peaks in the area. 

Hence, Saribung Peak Climbing is certainly a once-in-a-lifetime journey. Saribung Peak Trekking includes mythological sites and wild and remote locations. Get to pass spectacular crossings, a special trek, and one-of-a-kind trips.

Saribung Peak Climbing Trip Highlights 

• Discover an isolated part of the Mustang region that lies within the Damodar Himal Range

• Trekking experience through low sub-tropical woods to high alpine rocky terrain

• Upper Jomsom, Upper Mustang, the isolated Nar Phu Valley, and Hidden Valley in one excellent adventure

• Get the insights into a Tibetan-like environment, culture, and people

• Face the challenges of not only climbing Saribung Peak at 6,328m but also traversing the 6,042m Saribung La pass 

• Wonderful views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and the Annapurna range

• Take in the striking vistas of Himlung Himal, Nilgiri Himal, Lamjung Himal, Mt. Manaslu, and many other peaks

Saribung Expedition Difficulty Level

Saribung Peak Expedition is not a technical climb, but it is a difficult excursion. It is due to the altitude change and the isolation of the location. The challenging routes and off-the-beaten paths fall in the Saribung Peak climbing. This journey is where you will be ascending to a staggering height of 6,328 meters.

Between the Damodar Kunda (lake) and the Nar-Phu valley, there are many passes with ice and crevasses. Two of the most notable challenges are the Kang La high pass and the Saribung La pass. Both of these locations are above 5200 meters. Saribung Peak's altitude can cause AMS.

For the most part, these will cause glacier travel mode, with only a few portions of fixed-line requiring the use of a jumar. Climbing the Saribung Peak necessitates a basic understanding of mountaineering methods. Climbers need excellent physical shape and a lot of determination.

Trekkers must walk an average of 6 to 7 hours per day off-trail or over tough terrain. With a total elevation gain of more than 1000 meters or 20 kilometers. And, if you are an experienced mountaineer, ascending Saribung Peak will be quite easy for you. 

Saribung Peak: Altitude Sickness AMS 

The well-planned Saribung Peak Climbing itinerary includes two practical and beneficial acclimatization days. You also have pre-climb training, which helps in the adaptation to the thin air. Most of all, it reduces the chance of mountain sickness.

However, to avoid getting AMS, we recommend that you stay hydrated and walk at a relaxed pace. If any symptoms are seen, immediately inform the guide. Our guides are always equipped with a first-aid kit and a pulse oximeter. It measures the amount of oxygen in your blood.

Every one of our mountain commanders is experienced, smart, and insightful. It can deal with any health risks or unforeseen occurrences.

Best Time For Saribung Peak Climbing 

Saribung Peak climbing is best done in the spring (March to May) and autumn (mid-September to November). During these seasons, the Saribung Peak in spring (March–May) and autumn (Sept–Nov) has pleasant weather.

It provides perfect circumstances for hiking and climbing. The days go with less snow and clear mountain vistas. 

Monsoon and winter are considered off-seasons. Climbing during these times is not recommended due to wet, slippery trails. The other reason is unsatisfying vistas, heavy snowfall, and extreme cold. 

Permits for Saribung Peak Climbing 

Saribung Peak Climbing needs the following permissions:

• Documentation for Permits/Entry from the Department of Immigration

• Saribung Peak climbing fees/Royalty 

• Naar- Phu Valley RAP (Restricted Area Permit)

• ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Permit)

• Upper Mustang RAP (Restricted Area Permit)

Saribung expedition route Nepal

Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani/Kyoto. We then trek to Nar-Phu, begin the expedition, and complete it. After this, we trek to Yara-luri and Lo Manthang. Following this, we move to Kagbeni and Jomsom and end the trekking section.

The Saribung expedition route goes like KTM-Pokhara-Jomsom-Kagbeni-Lomanthang-Luri-Yara. We completed the climb and trek to Nar-Phu, then Dharapani/Kyoto and back to Kathmandu.

Based on our experience, it is better to start from Nar Phu for adventure enthusiasts. The peak climbing is a tough journey, so to make you properly acclimatize and get used to the challenging trek, we prefer to start in the Nar Phu. The Mustang part is easier and could lack acclimatization and training/technical experience. So, we prefer you relax later after the climb

There are two possible routes for the incredible journey. It combines the remote wilderness of Nar Phu Valley with the ancient Tibetan-influenced culture of Upper Mustang. One option is to begin by driving from Kathmandu to Dharapani or Koto and then trekking to Nar and Phu villages.

From there, you can begin the peak climbing expedition. After the summit, continue your trek towards Yara, Luri Gompa, and Lo Manthang. Finally, you descend through Kagbeni to Jomsom before returning to Pokhara or Kathmandu.

Alternative Saribung Peak itinerary

In the Alternative Saribung Peak via Nar Phu Valley itinerary, you can start from Kathmandu or Pokhara. You then fly or drive to Jomsom and begin your trek through Kagbeni, Lo Manthang, Luri, and Yara.

After completing the Mustang part, you would then head toward Nar Phu. To end your trek, you travel to Dharapani or Koto before returning to Kathmandu.

Saribung Peak itinerary via Nar Phu Valley

But, based on our extensive experience organizing treks and expeditions across Nepal, we strongly recommend starting your adventure from Nar Phu. Especially since you are undertaking peak climbing. The Nar Phu route offers a more gradual ascent. It allows better acclimatization and preparation before reaching the technical climbing phase.

This region’s challenging terrain and high-altitude passes naturally build stamina and mental resilience. They are essential for any demanding expedition. In contrast, the Mustang region, although breathtaking, tends to be easier terrain and altitude. Starting from there may not provide enough acclimatization or physical readiness.

By tackling the harder sections first, you prepare your body and mind for the peak. You can also enjoy the scenic and culturally rich trails of Mustang as a more relaxed and rewarding conclusion to your adventure.

For seasoned trekkers and climbing enthusiasts, Nar Phu start ensures a safer and stronger beginning. It is a more fulfilling expedition experience.