A Complete Guide to Saribung Pass trekking in Nepal

PUBLISHED ON 27 June, 2024
A Complete Guide to Saribung Pass trekking in Nepal

Nepal, a trekker’s paradise, gives an array of adventurous trails that attract hundreds of enthusiasts every year. Among its many hidden gems, the Saribung Pass trek stands out for its uncooked splendor and tough terrain. This trek, set within the far flung area of the Damodar Himal in the Mustang district, offers an exceptional revel in for pro trekkers looking for solitude and stunning landscapes.

Why Choose Saribung Pass Trek?

The Saribung Pass trek isn’t as frequented as different popular treks like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, which makes it ideal for the ones looking to escape the crowds. The trek combines the diverse cultures of the Mustang and Nar-Phu regions with the high-altitude challenges and the mesmerizing scenery of the Himalayas.

Trekking Highlights

Cultural Immersion:

The journey starts in the historical city of Lo Manthang, the walled capital of the Upper Mustang. Here, you can explore monasteries, caves, and the wealthy cultural historical past of the nearby Tibetan-influenced populace.

Trekking through the Nar and Phu villages presents a glimpse into the conventional way of life of the ethnic businesses residing in those remoted regions.

Stunning Landscapes:

The trek traverses varied landscapes, from arid high-altitude deserts to lush valleys and glacial terrains.

The panoramic views from Saribung Pass at an altitude of 6,042 meters (19,823 toes) are breathtaking, offering vistas of peaks like Saribung (6,328 meters) and other surrounding Himalayan giants.

Unique Wildlife:

The area is domestic to numerous vegetation and fauna. Trekkers may encounter blue sheep, snow leopards, and quite a few birds.

Trekking Route

The Saribung Pass trek generally takes round 20-25 days, relying on the selected itinerary and acclimatization needs. A normal direction might seem like this:

Kathmandu to Pokhara:

The journey begins with a drive or flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

Pokhara to Jomsom:

From Pokhara, a flight to Jomsom marks the beginning of the trek. Jomsom is a popular place to begin for plenty Mustang treks.

Jomsom to Lo Manthang:

The trek heads north in the direction of Lo Manthang, passing through Kagbeni and different villages. This a part of the trek is culturally rich and comparatively moderate in phrases of issue.

Lo Manthang to Saribung Base Camp:

The path regularly ascends, main to the Saribung Base Camp. This phase requires cautious acclimatization because of the growing altitude.

Crossing Saribung Pass:

The most difficult a part of the trek is crossing the Saribung Pass. Trekkers need to be well-prepared for high-altitude conditions and ability snow and ice.

Descend to Nar-Phu Valley:

After crossing the pass, the trek descends into the Nar-Phu Valley, known for its far off and rugged beauty.

Nar-Phu to Besisahar:

The trek maintains through the Nar-Phu Valley, ultimately attaining Besisahar, where the path meets the Annapurna Circuit.

Return to Kathmandu:

From Besisahar, a pressure back to Kathmandu concludes the journey.

Preparation and Permits

Physical Fitness:

Due to its far off place and excessive altitude, the Saribung Pass trek demands extremely good physical health and prior trekking experience.

Permits:

Trekkers need numerous lets in, which includes the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Upper Mustang and Nar-Phu Valley, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.

Gear and Equipment:

Proper high-altitude trekking gear is important. This includes heat apparel, sturdy hiking boots, crampons, and an ice axe for the bypass crossing.

Difficulty of the Saribung Pass trek 

The Saribung Pass trek is understood for its tough and stressful nature, making it suitable for knowledgeable trekkers looking for an adventurous and much less-traveled course. Here’s an in depth breakdown of the factors contributing to the problem of this trek:

1. High Altitude

Maximum Elevation: The trek reaches an elevation of 6,042 meters (19,823 feet) at Saribung Pass.

Altitude Sickness: The threat of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is massive. Proper acclimatization days and careful tracking of signs and symptoms are important.

Oxygen Levels: Reduced oxygen ranges at high altitudes can make respiratory difficult and trekking extra strenuous.

2. Remote and Rugged Terrain

Trail Conditions: The trails are regularly difficult, unmarked, and can include unfastened rocks, scree, and glacial moraine.

Technical Sections: Crossing the Saribung Pass involves traversing glaciers and potentially the use of crampons and ice axes. Basic mountaineering competencies may be beneficial.

Isolation: The far flung nature of the trek means fewer centers and emergency services. Trekkers ought to be self-sufficient and properly-organized.

3. Physical Endurance

Long Days: Trekking days can be long, often related to 6-8 hours of walking in hard conditions.

Elevation Gain: Significant day by day elevation gains and losses require properly cardiovascular and muscular endurance.

Heavy Packs: Carrying gear, especially in the absence of porters or publications, adds to the physical needs.

4. Weather Conditions

Unpredictable Weather: The high-altitude surroundings can deliver unexpected climate modifications, which include snowstorms and excessive winds.

Temperature Extremes: Cold temperatures, specially at night time and at better elevations, require proper insulation and practise.

5. Logistical Challenges

Limited Supplies: Due to the remoteness, get admission to to substances, meals, and easy water can be restrained. Trekkers regularly need to carry enough provisions.

Accommodation: Basic teahouses and tenting are the primary lodging alternatives, lacking the comforts discovered in greater popular hiking regions.

6. Technical Skills

Mountaineering Techniques: While not a complete-fledged mountaineering excursion, crossing Saribung Pass may also require competencies such as using crampons, rope techniques, and ice awl dealing with.

Navigation Skills: Given the less-trodden paths, proper navigation abilities are essential, especially if hiking without a guide.

Preparation Tips

Training: Engage in a rigorous schooling regime specializing in cardiovascular fitness, power training, and persistence. Simulate trekking conditions with the aid of trekking with a loaded backpack.

Acclimatization: Plan for adequate acclimatization days to reduce the chance of AMS. Familiarize your self with the symptoms and treatments of altitude sickness.

Gear: Invest in extremely good tools appropriate for bloodless and excessive-altitude trekking. Ensure you have got proper shoes, layered clothing, and technical system for glacier journey.

Diet and Hydration: Maintain a balanced eating regimen and stay hydrated to keep your strength degrees up in the course of the trek.

Guides and Porters: Consider hiring experienced publications and porters to help with navigation, carrying masses, and making sure safety.

Duration of the Saribung Pass Trek

The Saribung Pass trek normally takes 20 to 25 days, relying on various factors along with the chosen direction, pace of hiking, acclimatization desires, and weather conditions. Here’s an in depth itinerary to offer you a clearer image of the trek’s period:

Complete Itinerary for Saribung Pass Trek

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrival in Kathmandu and switch to the lodge.

Preparation and briefing for the trek.

Day 2: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation in Kathmandu

Sightseeing round Kathmandu Valley.

Final preparations and lets in.

Day 3: Fly to Pokhara

Fly or power to Pokhara.

Explore the city and put together for the trek.

Day four: Fly to Jomsom and Trek to Kagbeni

Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,720 meters).

Trek to Kagbeni (2,810 meters).

Day five: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele

Trek to Chele (3,050 meters).

Day 6: Trek from Chele to Syanbochen

Trek to Syanbochen (3,475 meters).

Day 7: Trek from Syanbochen to Ghemi

Trek to Ghemi (3,520 meters).

Day 8: Trek from Ghemi to Tsarang

Trek to Tsarang (3,560 meters).

Day 9: Trek from Tsarang to Lo Manthang

Trek to Lo Manthang( 3,840 meters).

Day 10: Rest and Acclimatization Day in Lo Manthang

Explore the historic town and acclimatize.

Day 11: Trek from Lo Manthang to Yara

Trek to Yara (3,650 meters).

Day 12: Trek from Yara to Luri Gompa

Trek to Luri Gompa (3,900 meters).

Day 13: Trek from Luri Gompa to Ghuma Thanti

Trek to Ghuma Thanti (4,800 meters).

Day 14: Trek from Ghuma Thanti to Saribung Base Camp

Trek to Saribung Base Camp (5,700 meters).

Day 15: Acclimatization and Preparation at Saribung Base Camp

Rest day for acclimatization and coaching for the pass crossing.

Day 16: Cross Saribung Pass and Trek to Nagoru

Cross Saribung Pass (6,042 meters) and descend to Nagoru (4,400 meters).

Day 17: Trek from Nagoru to Phu

Trek to Phu (4,080 meters).

Day 18: Trek from Phu to Meta

Trek to Meta (3,560 meters).

Day 19: Trek from Meta to Koto

Trek to Koto (2,600 meters).

Day 20: Trek from Koto to Dharapani

Trek to Dharapani (1,960 meters).

Day 21: Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar and Kathmandu

Drive to Besisahar and continue to Kathmandu.

Day 22: Departure from Kathmandu

Transfer to the airport on your departure.

Factors Affecting the Duration

  • Acclimatization Days: Depending on an individual, additional rest and acclimatization days may be wished.
  • Weather Conditions: Unpredictable weather, specifically at high altitudes, can cause delays.
  • Physical Condition: The trek’s tempo can vary based on the trekkers’ health ranges and enjoyment.
  • Route Variations: Some itineraries would possibly encompass extra cultural exploration or opportunity routes, affecting the whole length.

Best Time to Trek the Saribung Pass

The Saribung Pass trek, due to its excessive altitude and remote place, calls for careful attention of weather conditions and seasons to make sure a safe and exciting revel in. The perfect instances to undertake this trek are at some stage in the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. Here’s an indepth look at why these intervals are the best:

Saribung Pass Glacier

Spring (April to May)

Advantages:

Mild Temperatures: The temperatures are moderate all through the spring season, making trekking greater snug.

Clear Skies: The weather is typically solid, with clean skies imparting lovely perspectives of the encircling peaks.

Blooming Flora: This season is marked by way of blooming rhododendrons and other alpine flowers, adding colourful hues to the landscape.

Snow Conditions: The snow from winter starts offevolved to melt, making the high passes like Saribung extra available.

Considerations:

Crowds: While no longer as crowded as the famous hiking routes, there may additionally nevertheless be an growth in trekkers compared to the wintry weather season.

Variable Weather: Early spring can nonetheless have lingering winter weather, so be prepared for infrequent bloodless snaps and snow.

Autumn (September to November)

Advantages:

  • Stable Weather: Autumn is known for its stable and dry weather, with minimal chances of rain or snow.
  • Clear Views: Post-monsoon, the air is apparent, supplying some of the first-class mountain views and photography opportunities.
  • Cultural Festivals: This season coincides with fundamental Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering a chance to revel in local lifestyle and traditions.

Considerations:

  • Cooler Temperatures: As the season progresses, temperatures, mainly at better altitudes, can drop appreciably.
  • Shorter Days: Daylight hours decrease as autumn advances, that could affect hiking schedules and necessitate early starts offevolved.

Other Seasons

Winter (December to February)

  • Challenges: Extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and capability avalanche threat make winter a tough and risky time for this trek.
  • Accessibility: Many trails and passes, together with Saribung, can be closed or extraordinarily difficult to navigate because of snow and ice.

Summer/Monsoon (June to August)

  • Challenges: The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, main to slippery and muddy trails, landslides, and confined visibility.
  • Remote Region: The Mustang location lies within the rain shadow of the Himalayas, receiving less rainfall. However, the Nar-Phu Valley and other sections can nevertheless be affected by monsoon situations.

Conclusion 

The Saribung Pass trek is a worthwhile journey for those in search of trek off the beaten path. With its blend of cultural richness, tough excessive-altitude terrain, and breathtaking surroundings, it guarantees an unforgettable enjoy within the coronary heart of the Himalayas.

Whether you’re skilled trekker searching out a new mission or a cultural fanatic eager to explore Nepal’s far-flung regions, the Saribung Pass trek offers some thing simply specific and unique. Start on this awesome adventure and find out the hidden treasures of Nepal’s Mustang area!