Unclimbed Mountain Chandi Climbing
Overview
Mugu Village, located in the remote Mugu district of Nepal’s rugged Karnali Province, is a land steeped in history and cultural richness. Nestled deep within the Himalayas, the area is home to indigenous ethnic groups such as the Mugu Tamang, Magar, and Chhetri communities who have preserved their unique traditions for centuries.
The people of Mugu have historically lived as farmers, herders, and traders, adapting to the harsh mountainous environment. The region’s isolation has protected their culture, language, and spiritual practices, many of which honor the natural world through ancient animist and Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Festivals and rituals celebrating mountain deities, rivers, and ancestors remain integral to their daily life.
Traditional Mugu architecture, with thick stone walls and simple designs, reflects their adaptation to extreme cold. The locals speak diverse dialects within the Tibeto-Burman family, alongside Nepali, which serves as a lingua franca.
While modernization and infrastructure are gradually reaching Mugu, bringing changes and challenges, the indigenous communities continue to safeguard their cultural heritage. The area’s spectacular natural beauty—pristine rivers, towering peaks, and remote villages—offers a unique and untouched Himalayan experience.
Expedition to Unclimbed Mountain Chandi
This expedition takes adventurers through Mugu’s stunning, less-traveled terrain to the base of Mountain Chandi, an unclimbed peak offering thrilling technical challenges amidst breathtaking Himalayan scenery. The route encompasses cultural immersion in remote villages and traverses diverse landscapes, from dense forests to alpine meadows and high mountain passes.
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to Drup (1,300m)
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to Drup at an elevation of 1,300 meters. This day is reserved for rest and acclimatization after your journey.
Equipment Checking and Preparation at Drup (1,300m)
Today, the team will thoroughly inspect and prepare all climbing and trekking equipment. Final adjustments are made to ensure safety and efficiency for the journey ahead.
Briefing at the Department of Tourism, Kathmandu
Attend an important briefing session with the Nepal Department of Tourism. This includes essential expedition permits, safety protocols, and an overview of the trek route and objectives.
Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (55 minutes)
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, the gateway to western Nepal. After arrival, rest and prepare for the next leg of the journey into the mountainous terrain.
Flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal and Trek to Dunai
Take a short domestic flight to Juphal, the starting point of the trek. From Juphal, begin trekking to Dunai, a small settlement nestled amidst the hills, marking the first step into remote Karnali.
Trek from Dunai to Tarakot
Continue trekking through forested hills and terraced fields, reaching the rustic village of Tarakot. Enjoy interaction with local communities and stunning natural surroundings.
Trek from Tarakot to Lainiwadar
Journey onward to Lainiwadar, traversing rugged trails and river valleys, steadily ascending deeper into the Himalayan foothills.
Trek from Lainiwadar to Navarpani Simwodar (Approx. 6 hours)
A longer trekking day leads to Navarpani Simwodar, crossing varied landscapes including dense forests and mountain streams, with beautiful panoramic views.
Trek from Simwodar to Dhotarap (Approx. 6-7 hours)
This challenging day ascends to Dhotarap, a higher-altitude settlement, preparing you for the demanding mountain terrain ahead.
Rest Day
A well-deserved rest day to recover, acclimatize, and explore the local culture around Dhotarap.
Trek from Dhotarap to Jungle High Camp
Move further up into alpine zones reaching Jungle High Camp, surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan vistas and untouched nature.
Trek from Jungle High Camp to Dobhan Kharka Camp
Trek across high meadows and ridges to Dobhan Kharka Camp, a key staging point for the expedition base.
Trek from Dobhan to Namdo Village
Descend into Namdo Village, an authentic mountain settlement where traditional lifestyles continue unchanged.
Trek from Namdo to Saldang
Journey to Saldang, a culturally rich village influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and Bon traditions, offering a glimpse into ancient Himalayan spirituality.
Trek from Saldang to Karang Kharka
Ascend to Karang Kharka, a grazing area with spectacular mountain views, and prepare for the final stretch toward the climbing base.
Trek from Karang Kharka to Kuu Village
Move on to Kuu Village, a remote settlement deep in the mountains, where you can experience traditional mountain hospitality.
Rest Day at Kuu Kharka
Rest and acclimatization day at Kuu Kharka, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude.
Trek from Kuu Kharka to Phot Village
Descend to Phot Village, nestled in a pristine valley surrounded by majestic peaks.
Trek from Phot to Ngimakyaljen Pass Basecamp
Cross the Ngimakyaljen Pass and arrive at the basecamp of the unclimbed peak, where preparations for the climb begin.
Trek from Basecamp to Pungkharka
Move to Pungkharka, a pasture area used for grazing yaks and sheep, offering fantastic mountain views and a peaceful environment.
Trek from Pungkharka over Yayala Pass to Cyangdi Valley Camp
Cross the scenic Yayala Pass and descend into Cyangdi Valley Camp, a tranquil spot surrounded by towering peaks.
Rest Day in Cyangdi Valley
Another rest day to relax, explore the valley, and prepare mentally and physically for the upcoming challenges.
Trek from Cyangdi to Takla Khola Camp
Continue trekking through valleys and forested areas to Takla Khola Camp, a beautiful natural campsite.
Trek from Takla Khola to Charcoal Phedi
Trek onward to Charcoal Phedi, moving closer to the lower settlements en route to Mugu village.
Trek from Thaguchaur to Sireni Chaur
Traverse the scenic route between Thaguchaur and Sireni Chaur, enjoying forested trails and mountain streams.
Trek from Thaguchaur to Sireni Chaur (Approx. 6 hours)
Spend another trekking day covering the 6-hour trail with views of pristine forests and traditional villages.
Trek from Sireni Chaur to Mugu Village (Approx. 5 hours)
Arrive at Mugu Village, a cultural hub of the region, where you can engage with indigenous communities and learn about their lifestyle.
Trek from Mugu Village to Pulu (Approx. 7 hours)
Trek from Mugu to Pulu, traversing through beautiful landscapes and mountain ridges.
Trek from Pulu to Dhungedhara (Approx. 7 hours)
Continue through mountain trails to Dhungedhara, surrounded by untouched natural beauty.
Trek from Dhungedhara to Ulu Bagar (Approx. 6 hours)
Proceed towards Ulu Bagar, enjoying alpine meadows and fresh mountain air.
Trek from Ulu Bagar to Rara Lake (Approx. 6 hours)
Arrive at Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest and one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes, known for its clear blue waters and tranquil atmosphere.
Trek or Drive from Rara Lake to Gamgadi Bazaar Mugu (Approx. 7 hours walk or drive)
Return towards Gamgadi Bazaar in Mugu either on foot or by vehicle, passing through local villages and stunning countryside.
Trek from Gamgadi Bazaar to Talcha Airport (Approx. 6–7 hours)
Final trekking day leading to Talcha Airport, the gateway for your return flight.
Fly from Talcha Airport to Nepalgunj, then Nepalgunj to Kathmandu
Fly from Talcha to Nepalgunj, then connect onward to Kathmandu. Relax on your return journey and enjoy the final views of the Himalayas.
Farewell Ceremony and Certification at the Department of Tourism, Kathmandu
Celebrate the successful expedition with a farewell ceremony and receive official certification from the Nepal Department of Tourism, marking the first ascent.
Final Departure – Fly Home Safely
Transfer to the airport for your international flight home, carrying memories of an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.