The Muktinath and Damodar Kunda Jeep and Horse Ride Tour by Yolo Hike is a thrilling and spiritually enriching journey into the heart of Upper Mustang, blending off-road adventure with high-altitude pilgrimage. This 7-day tour starts from Pokhara and follows a rugged, scenic route to Jomsom, Muktinath, Yara, and Thanti, ultimately reaching the sacred Damodar Kunda—a revered site for Hindu and Buddhist devotees. The journey combines 4WD jeep rides through remote mountain terrain and horseback riding to access Damodar Kunda, located at an elevation of 4,890 meters. Traversing one of Nepal's most arid and isolated regions, travelers experience the stark beauty of the trans-Himalayan landscape, ancient Tibetan-influenced villages, centuries-old monasteries, and the spiritual essence of Mustang. Designed for both adventurers and pilgrims, this tour offers a rare opportunity to reach one of Nepal’s holiest yet most inaccessible destinations in relative comfort, without the need for extensive trekking.
About Muktinath
Muktinath Temple, located at 3,800 meters in the Mustang district, is one of Nepal’s most sacred pilgrimage destinations for both Hindus and Buddhists. Known as the “Place of Liberation,” it is believed that a visit to Muktinath and a ritual bath in its 108 holy water spouts can wash away lifetimes of sins. The temple complex includes a Vishnu shrine (Muktinath), a Buddhist monastery, and an eternal flame known as Jwala Mai, which has been burning naturally for centuries. Surrounded by stark mountain deserts and with panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Muktinath offers both spiritual solace and awe-inspiring natural beauty. For many, this site serves as a key highlight of the Damodar Kunda journey, offering blessings and acclimatization before venturing further into the higher altitudes of Upper Mustang.
About Damodar Kunda
Damodar Kunda, situated in the Upper Mustang region near the Tibetan border, is a cluster of sacred alpine lakes at 4,890 meters above sea level. These glacial-fed waters are of immense religious significance to Hindus, who believe that bathing in the lake washes away sins and paves the path to liberation (moksha). It is also deeply venerated in Buddhist tradition, associated with ancient spiritual practices and revered by monks and local communities. The lake is the source of the Kali Gandaki River, known for the sacred Shaligram stones found along its banks. The stark, otherworldly beauty of the Damodar Himal range surrounding the lake, coupled with its isolation and spiritual energy, makes it a profound destination for seekers of both natural and divine wonder. Given its extreme altitude and remote location, it’s a place few have the chance to witness—making it one of Nepal’s most exclusive pilgrimage sites.
Why Muktinath and Damodar Kunda Jeep and Horse Ride Tour
This tour offers the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and spirituality, making it ideal for those seeking to explore remote Himalayan landscapes without undertaking strenuous trekking. The 4WD jeep ride allows travelers to cover long distances through the challenging terrain of Mustang efficiently, while the horseback segment from Thanti to Damodar Kunda offers a traditional and accessible means to reach the lake in high altitude conditions. The tour is meticulously organized by Yolo Hike, ensuring safe travel, acclimatization support, local cultural immersion, and expert guidance. Along the way, travelers experience iconic destinations such as Muktinath Temple, Yara village, and Jomsom, while witnessing dramatic mountain vistas, ancient Buddhist stupas, and the stark desert-like landscapes unique to Mustang. The tour includes accommodation, permits, transportation, and support crew, making it a hassle-free and memorable adventure suitable for small groups or individuals seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Who Should Choose This Tour
- The Damodar Kunda Jeep and Horse Ride Tour is ideal for a variety of travelers:
- Spiritual pilgrims seeking to reach Damodar Kunda for religious significance and blessings without enduring long treks.
- Adventure enthusiasts wanting to explore off-the-beaten-path regions of Nepal in a safe, guided manner.
- Photographers and nature lovers eager to capture the unique beauty of Mustang’s landscapes, rock formations, and high-altitude lakes.
- Travelers with limited time or physical constraints who still wish to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas and engage in a spiritual journey.
- Cultural explorers interested in the rich heritage of the Upper Mustang region, including its Tibetan-influenced architecture, monastic culture, and ancient traditions.
Whether you are a devotee, an adventurer, or someone seeking solitude and reflection amidst majestic mountains, this tour offers an unforgettable blend of nature, culture, and spirituality.
