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Dolpo Trek: Experience the Unexplored Tranquil and Natural Beauty

Untouched by modern influences and luxuries, Dolpo is one of the most exciting yet, amazingly, uncharted trekking destinations in Nepal. Dolpo is home to raw Tibetan culture, natural magnificence, and an ideal illustration of the diversity in landscapes, religions, and traditions. Being one of the least visited sites, the trails and environs in the region are still pristine. Though the tourists may come from hundreds of miles away, they’re guaranteed to feel at home with the warm hospitality of the locals.

Upper and Lower Dolpo Treks 

Dolpo is one of the largest trekking destinations in Nepal, with a plethora of sites to visit. For the ease of trekking in accordance with the trekkers’ ability and time availability, two trekking routes have been carved into the maps of Dolpo. One is the Lower Dolpo Trek, and the other trekking route is the Upper Dolpo Trek. The Lower Dolpo Trek explores the lower skirts of Dolpo while reaching Phoksundo Lake as the highest point of the trek. However, the Upper Dolpo Trek navigates through the Tibetan villages in close proximity to Tibet. The trek also crosses high-altitude passes like Kang La (5350m) and Sele La (5096m).

Key Attractions of Dolpo Trek

Culture and Nature 

Along these two adventurous trekking routes on the Upper and Lower Dolpo treks, trekkers walk through the Khas and Thakuri villages of Juphal and Dunai. As the trekkers ascend along the trekking trails, the influence of Buddhism is clearly evident. Tibetan Buddhism and Bon Po religions prevail in Upper Dolpo and are practiced in numerous monasteries spread throughout the region. 

Leaving the lush forests around Phoksundo Lake and its vicinity, the northern parts are arid and barren. However, the curvaceous landscapes form breath-taking scenery. Shey Phoksundo National Park is the epitome of biodiversity and a tranquil environment. 

Shey Phoksundo Lake 

The Shey Phoksundo Lake is the main attraction of the Dolpo Trek. The turquoise-colored lake is the crown jewel of the Dolpo region and boasts incredible serenity around the vicinity. The lake lies amidst tall green hills covered and topped by beautiful snow-capped mountains behind them. 

Gumba and Buddhist Monasteries 

The trekkers can find hundreds of Buddhist monasteries, chortens, and prayer wheels on the trekking trails. Along with these, they can also meet people following the Bon Po religion. Shey Gompa, a Buddhist monastery, is the most esteemed one in the entire region, whereas Yangtze Gompa is a monastery of Bon origin. Stone walls with mantras and a colorful environment created by decorated prayer flags are a feast for trekkers.

Rich Biodiversity 

With lots of valleys and gorges, it creates a perfect environment for rare flora and fauna to bloom in these areas. The visitors can have the opportunity to be a part of the few who can say they’ve seen rare animals like blue sheep, Himalayan thar, and snow leopards. Additionally, colorful plants like the Wild Rose, Juniper, and Rhododendron in the grasslands and valleys are something not everyone can experience in their life. Shey Phoksundo National Park in the Dolpo region houses this astounding biodiversity.

The Dolpo region is an ideal trekking location to experience nomadic life, ancient cultures, and isolated trekking trails. Dolpo Treks are uniquely distinct thanks to the authenticity of the prevailing nature and culture. As the treks provide opportunities to learn and enjoy, Dolpo is a must-visit destination for trekking enthusiasts. 

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Upper Dolpo Trek- A Complete Guide

Last Updated on June 15, 2022 by Alpha Adventure Treks

The Upper Dolpo trek is a fantastic, adventurous journey that takes you to some of Nepal’s most remote locations. It’s one of the best off-the-beaten-path trekking trails in Nepal . On this trek, you have a significant impact on the villages, gompas, and people you meet. The communities are lot more disembroiled and unadulterated, and the scenes are much more devastated. Dolpo is Nepal’s most remote and underdeveloped region. Despite the fact that the region has been surveyed by a few geographers and anthropologists, the entire area was closed to hikers until 1989, when the southern portion of Dolpo was opened to supervised trekking trips. The Upper Dolpo Trek takes you through several massive mountain ranges. The vast majority of Upper Dolpo treks begin with a Lower Dolpo trip to Dho Tarap or Phoksundo Lake. Then adding the Shey Gompa connection, which connects Saldang with Dho Tarap or Phoksundo, two lesser-known locations. Some Upper Dolpo hikes cross high passes to connect to nearby places like Mugu and Mustang. Upper Dolpo trekking is known for its wildness, solitude, and spectacular mountains.

Table of Contents

Upper Dolpo Trek: Things you Should Know

Upper Dolpo, like many other trekking routes in Nepal, is best visited in the spring and autumn. However, because to the unpredictable nature of snowfall, early spring and late autumn may not be the best times to trek. This might make crossing the high mountains extremely difficult at this time of year. Because the majority of Dolpo is in the Dhaulagiri Range’s rain shadow, it receives little or no rain, even while the rest of the country is experiencing monsoon rains. This area is primarily a high-altitude desert as a result of this. From the beginning of August through the end of October, and sometimes even into the middle of November, the weather is excellent.

Upper Dolpo Trek: How to Get There?

We can get to the Dolpo Region by two ways:

Traveling to Juphal by Air :

For all hikers and guests, flying to Dolpo (Juphal) is the greatest alternative because it saves time and effort. Different domestic airlines, such as Buddha, Yeti, and Shree Airlines, operate regular flights to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu. From Kathmandu, take any domestic airline to Nepalgunj. Nepalgunj, a town in the western Terai near the Indian border and the Bardia National Park, is a popular tourist destination. There are regular flights from Nepalgunj to Juphal and Dolpo. The flying time is around 35 minutes. From Nepalgunj, Summit Airlines and Tara Airlines fly to Dolpo.

Drive from Nepalgunj to Dolpo through Musikot, Tallu Bagar, Khading, and Tripurakot :

Local buses and Hiace Vans are accessible from Kathmandu to Nepalganj. The ticket may be purchased in Gongabu, the capital’s well-known bus station. Morning and evening departures are on the program. By bus, it takes about 12 hours; by Hiace Vans, it takes about half that time. Nepalgunj serves as a significant transportation center for the country’s western, midwestern, and far western areas. Every day, buses travel from Nepalgunj’s Kohalpur bus terminal for Jajarkot. The road between these two points is approximately 96 kilometers long. Even in the summer, this road is excellent. From Jajarkot, local jeeps can transport you to Radi (Rari), Tallu Bagar, Khadang, and Tripura. Due to the paucity of highway crossings, the road is not blacktopped, and you will need to switch your jeep in between. Summertime is not the best time to go on this road. If you travel by land to go to Dolpo, it takes two days to reach from Nepalgunj to Dunai (2150m), a small town that serves as the district’s headquarters.

Upper Dolpo Trek Itinerary

Day 01 : Arrive at Kathmandu | Altitude:  (1,300m/4,264 ft)

Day 02 : Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation 

Day 03 : Fly From Kathmandu to Nepalgunj | Altitude: 518 ft / 158 m

Day 04 : Fly from Nepalgunj to Jhupal and Trek to Sulighat  | Altitude: 2070m/6790ft  | Trek: 2-3 Hrs

Day 05 : Trek from Sulighat to Renje  | Altitude: 3010m/9873ft  | Trek: 5-6 Hrs

Day 06 : Trek from Renje to Ringmo Village  | Altitude: 3640m/11940ft  | Trek:5-6 Hrs 

Day 07 : Rest day in Phoksundo Lake and explore around Ringmo village

Day 08 : Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Phoksundo Khola  | Altitude: 3630m/1190ft  | Trek: 4-5 Hrs

Day 09 : Trek from Phoksundo Khola to Phoksundo Bhanjyang  | Altitude: 4120m/13514ft  | Trek: 6-7 Hrs

Day 10 : Trek from Phoksundo Bhanjyang to Kang La pass- Shey Gompa  | Altitude: 5160m/16925ft  | Trek: 5-6 Hrs

Day 11 : Rest day at Shey Gompa the crystal monastery

Day 12:  Trek from Shey Gompa to Saldang La- Namgung Village  | Altitude: 5010m/16432ft  | Trek: 6-7 Hrs

Day 13 : Trek from Namgung Village to Saldang  | Altitude: 3620m/11,874ft  | Trek: 4-5 Hrs

Day 14 : Trek from Saldang to Yangze Gompa  | Altitude: 4960m/16267ft  | Trek: 4-6 Hrs

Day 15 : Trek from Yangze Gompa to Shibu  | Altitude: 4560m/14957ft  | Trek: 6-7 Hrs

Day 16 : Trek from Shibu to Jeng La Phedi  | Altitude: 4900m/16072ft  | Trek: 5-6 Hrs

Day 17 : Trek from Jeng La Phedi to Jeng La Pass- Do Tarap  | Altitude: 5090m/16695ft  | Trek: 6-7 Hrs

Day 18 : Day explore and acclimatization in Do Tarap

Day 19 : Trek from Do Tarap to Tarap Khola | Altitude: 3800m/12464ft  | Trek: 6-7 Hrs

Day 20 : Trek from Tarap Khola to Khanigaon  | Altitude: 3150m/10332ft  | Trek: 5-6 Hrs

Day 21 : Trek from Khanigaon to Tarakot- Dunai  | Altitude: 2537m/8321ft  | Trek: 5-6 Hrs

Day 22 : Trek from Dunai to Jhupal  | Altitude: 2320m/7610ft  | Trek 2-3 Hrs

Day 23 : Fly from Jhupal to Nepalgunj- Kathmandu  

Day 24 : Departure Day

Upper Dolpo Trek: Best Season/ Time to Trek

Behind the mountains, Dolpo and Upper Mustang are in the rain shadow. Spring (Mid-March, April & May) and autumn (Mid-September, October, November) are the most popular seasons for trekking in Nepal. Trekking to Dolpo in different seasons, however, has its own charms. Always verify the weather focus of the areas you are intending to visit before planning your trek in the Himalayas and have paper copies with you.

Spring Season: March, April, May

Even though spring is an excellent time to trek in Dolpo, late snowfall can make things difficult. So, mid-April is the ideal time to arrange your trip to Dolpo. Even the month of May is pleasant, as vegetation gradually emerges and people return from places such as Kathmandu, Nepal, and Nepalgunj.

Monsoon Season: June, July, August

Summer is considered the nicest and most popular season in Nepal’s Himalayan region. Dolpo is one of them, and it is located in Nepal’s rain shadow territory, where summer is ideal for exploring the Dolpo. During that time, the weather is neither too chilly nor too hot, making it ideal for trekking. However, due to weather issues in Nepal’s lowlands, the flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal may be canceled. If you are planning your trek during the summer, we recommend adding one or two days to your itinerary in case your flight does not depart on time.

Autumn Season: September, October, November

Autumn is perhaps the finest season for trekking in Nepal, with the Annapurna, Langtang, and Everest regions being particularly congested. The clean and blue skies following the summer monsoons provide numerous wonderful panoramic views of glittering nature and the majestic Himalayas. During the Upper Dolpo hike, you can also meet with the locals, see several lovely villages, and communities during the fall harvest season.

Winter Season: December, January, February

All of Dolpo’s high passes are blocked by snow throughout the winter, and no one crosses them until the mid-spring season. As a result, going to Dolpo in the winter is not a good idea. This is not to argue that trekking in the Dolpo region during the winter is impossible. Some travelers have trekked to Phoksundo Lake in the winter, but a well-experienced guide and favorable weather are required for a successful expedition. Winter lasts for a few months, beginning in mid-November and ending in mid-late March.

Upper Dolpo Trek: Cost/ Package

Upper Dolpo trek prices vary depending on the packages given by the trekking operator. In general, the price of an Upper Dolpo Trekking package ranges from $3500 to $5500, depending on the length of your trip, the number of groups, and the Upper Dolpo Trekking package you select. The cost of the Upper Dolpo hike covers airfare, meals, lodging, insurance, gear, and the cost of hiring a guide, among other things.

Upper Dolpo Trekking: Permits Cost

Below are the required permits and their cost to trek to Upper Dolpo Region:

• Upper Dolpo restricted permit costs USD 500 for the first ten days and USD 50 per person per day for the remaining days.
• The entrance charge to Shey Phoksundo National Park is USD 30 for foreign visitors, NPR 1500 for SAARC nationals, and NPR 100 for Nepali visitors. It is a one-time permit that can be used indefinitely.
• If your hike begins and ends in Dunai or Juphal, you will also need two Lower Dolpo permits, which cost USD 20 per person per week.
• The cost of entering a monastery varies from NPR 200 to NPR 400 per person. During your visit to the monastery, you will be required to pay.

Upper Dolpo Trek: Difficulty

Upper Dolpo Trek is a difficult and little-known trek in Nepal, with only between 250 to 750 visitors travelling each year. The name alone suggests that getting to the high mountains may be tough. It takes 5 to 9 hours of trekking in a single day, reaching above 5000 meters, and spending numerous nights over 4000 meters. For those who are physically and mentally healthy, the trip is achievable.

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Suggestions, the incredible journey through dolpo trek: nepal’s spectacular trekking route.

Dolpo is an isolated district of Nepal and is also called a place behind the mountains. It’s isolating and standing behind the Himalayas with beautiful nature and amazing culture and traditions. There are two divisions of the Dolpo, the Upper and lower Dolpo. Trekking to one of these places or a combination of these will call Dolpo Trek in Nepal. 

This untouched land by modern technology and information is a pure virgin place to explore for a lifetime memory. Doing Dolpa Trek will teach a traveler to understand the beauty of nature and the lifestyle of the Himalayan people. Exploring this territory will make you witness the capability of mother nature, how strong they are, and the need to respect them. 

Dolpo is located in the far western corner of the country and it’s very remote and undeveloped compared to other regions. Therefore the tourism infrastructure in this region is not good as other regions. Camping equipment and kitchen staff are essential to do Upper Dolpa Trek. Sometimes transportation might be the challenging part of the beautiful trek. 

The Dolpo is on the border with Tibet so here we can find a mixture of culture and tradition. Although it’s dominated by Tibetan Culture, hence travelers will feel more like Tibet in Dolpo. The remoteness and the vivid nature, culture, and traditions made Dolpo Trek one of the best treks in Nepal. 

Upper Dolpo 

Dolpo has two parts the Upper and Lower Dolpo, and both regions are very popular for voyaging. Upper Dolpo is one of the restricted areas of Nepal for trekking, therefore trekking here requires a special trekking permit. The dramatic landscapes as well as the arid territory are completely different from the Annapurna and Everest regions. 

Trekking through these amazing landscapes will take you to the customary villages, and those villages are occupied by various ethnic groups. Who has their own tradition, culture, and beliefs, however, the hospitality of the local for tourist is remarkable. The differing nature and phenomenon culture will make the Dolpo Trek simply mesmerizing.   

One of the well-known lakes in Nepal’s Himalayas the Shey Phokundo Lake also lies in the Upper Dolpo. Also, this lake is the deepest lake in the high elevation in the world. Upper Dolpo is popular for its variety of flora and fauna, medical herbs, and many more. 

Lower Dolpo

Lower Dolpo is the lower region of the Dolpo district and to do Dolpo Trek need to pass through this part. The lower region is still remote and villages are very unique and people are very friendly. Walking through the dense forest of the Oka and Pine will offer the splendid scenery of the surroundings. 

Very ancient monasteries and the typical settlements and there are some high passes too. Those high trekking passes are above 5000 meters, the major one is Bagala Pass with an elevation of 5169m. Therefore the lower Dolpo is one of the most demanding treks in Nepal. However, to have the successful completion of this trek will require good physical condition. 

The lower Dolpo Trek is once a lifetime trekking experience. Because it will give you the perfect glimpse of the world-class trekking experience. And the real local test of the real Himalayan region. 

Highlights of the Dolpo Trek

One of the best camping trek experiences in Nepal. 

5000m High passes offer magical mountain and landscape views. 

Opportunity to explore the spellbinding Phoksundo Lake 

Observe the holy Buddhist monasteries and feel the Bon Buddhism in the Himalayas of Nepal. 

Witness the diverse flora and fauna inside the Shey Phoksundo Nationa Park. 

Visit the untouched land, meet the local people and feel the local culture and tradition. 

Experience the month-long trekking in Nepal’s Himalayas. 

Enjoy a glimpse of Mt. Dhaulagiri and Crystal Mountain (Also popular as the younger brother of the holy Mt. Kailash)

The most common Upper Dolpo Trek Itinerary 

To enter Dolpo there are many different routes such as the route from Beni, Jomsom, Rara and Juful. The most common one is from Kathmandu to Nepalgunje and then flying to Jufal and starting the trek. So that, you can choose any itinerary as your time and dare to adventure in the Himalayas. 

Trekking permits and documents 

Dolpo Restricted Area Permit: This permit is required to enter the Dolpo region and can only issue through government-registered trekking agencies. The cost of the permit varies depending on the length of your trek. A minimum of 2 people is mandatory to obtain this permit. And there will be two permits Upper and Lower Dolpo Permit. Upper Dolpo Trek Permit will cost 500 USD for 10 days for one person and the lower Dolpo Trekking Permit will cost USD 20 per person for a week. 

Shey-Phoksundo National Park Permi t: This permit is required to enter Shey-Phoksundo National Park, which is one of the most beautiful parts of the Dolpo region. For foreign tourists, it will cost Rs, 3000, and for SAARC Nationals Rs. 1500.

Valid Passport: All trekkers who are doing Dolpo Trek must carry a valid passport to enter the Dolpo region.

Travel Insurance: It is mandatory for all trekkers to have travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation and medical expenses.

How to get Dolpo 

Dolpo is located in the western part of Nepal, it is one of the remote areas of Nepal, there for traveling there is quite difficult than in other parts of Nepal. To follow the common route of the Dolpo Trek first need to get to Nepalgunj. There are two options to go to Nepalgunj by plane and by bus. 

Then need to fly to Jufal airport from Nepalgunj. Jufal Airport is the only airport in the Dolpo district. It is a very small airport in the Mountain region of Nepal. Because there is no direct flight or bus from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Sometimes the flight to Jufal can delay or postpone because of the bad weather condition. 

Best Time to do Dolpo Trek

The suitable time to do trekking in Nepal is between March to May and September to November. However, there are some trekking routes that can do during the summer (May, June, July) season as well. Those treks are Upper Mustang Trek and Dolpo Trek. Therefore you can do Dolpo trekking anytime between these months. 

Starting of the spring season and ending of the autumn season might be a bit tough because of the snow. And traveling during the summer season might be a bit challenging to get Dolpo. 

Food and Accommodation

Food and Accommodation in the Dolpo region are not like in Annapurna and Everest regions. Although in the lower part, there are available basic accommodation and local food. But in the Upper Dolpo region, there are no good accommodations and food choices available. So that camping is the most necessary part to do during the Upper Dolpo Trek. So you must carry camping equipment and have a good cook as well.

What Kind of Trekking equipment you should bring for Dolpo Trek? 

Dolpo Trek is a complete camping trek. Hence the first necessary equipment is camping gear. Usually, these things will provide by the trekking organizers in Nepal. Except that you have to bring other trekking gear like other trekking in Nepal. 

• Dolpo Trek Cost
• Dolpo Trek Itinerary
• Dolpo Trekking
• Shey Phokundo Lake

[…] its remote location and limited infrastructure, Dolpo Trek offers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of life and enjoy the great solitude in the great […]

[…] Dolpa Trek is longer than Upper Mustang Trek so it’s the longer version of summer season treks in Nepal. So if you have a long summer vacation and want to explore the remote part of Nepal then Dolpa Trek is the best choice for you. Most of the trekking regions are getting modernized but the Dolpa region is still far away from the modern lifestyle and facilities. So this trek will give you a real trekking experience in Nepal. […]

[…] do trekking in Nepal; You can do many trekking such as Annapurna Circuit Trek, Upper Mustang, and Dolpa Trek. These trekking trails are inside the trans-Himalayan region and this barely rains in this region. […]

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Discovering the Beauty of the Wild Dolpo Region: Reasons to do Dolpo Trek

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Lower Dolpo Circuit Trekking

• Destination Nepal
• Off The Beaten Trek | Off The Beaten Trek Path in Nepal
• Altitude : 5190 m
• Transportation : Car/Bus/Plane
• Meals : Breakfat/Lunch/Dinner
• Best Season : Mar/Apr/May/Jun/Sep/Oct
• Trek Hour : 6
• Accommodation : Hotel and Tent

USD 3957 per person

Trip Highlights

• Observe the remote villages of Nepal and the lovely snowy peaks.
• ancient and isolated villages and unique Buddhist monasteries.
• Explore the largest national park of Nepal and crystal clear lake.
• Enthralling culture and tradition, Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing.

Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek with Baga La (5190 m) and Numa La (5159 m) Pass.

“The Circuit of Lower Dolpo Trek is a challenging trek that takes you through the remote and picturesque Dolpo region in western Nepal. It is an ideal trek for adventurous travellers who wish to explore the Himalayas. It is an excellent way to experience the local culture and unique landscape of the Dolpo region.”

The Lower Dolpo Trek in Shey Phoksumdo National Park is the focal point of this remote region of Nepal. In the Shey-Phoksundo National Park in western Nepal. Thus, the Dolpo region has been open to hikers since the middle of 1989. The Dhaulagiri and Churen Himal ranges border it on the east and south, and the Jumla district borders it on the west. Especially, the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek offers you the remarkable and worthwhile experience of a lifetime. The noteworthy features seen here are the immaculate snowy peaks; ancient and isolated villages; rich wildlife; reliable Buddhist monasteries; and wonderful lakes. However, with a unique culture and traditions, the locals are honest and kind. The cultural traditions of this area are basically linked to Tibetan culture.

Trekking into this region gives exposure to the high and isolated Himalayan valleys, which resemble the Tibetan highlands. Indeed, the Shey Phoksundo National Park  is the biggest national park in Nepal. It is a significant highlight of this Lower Dolpo Trek . Another significant feature of this area is “Shey Phoksundo Lake.” The lake is totally free of aquatic life, which the crystal clear waters clearly demonstrate. Surrounded by rocks, forests, and snow-capped mountains, Shey Phoksundo Lake is truly a heartwarming sight for any visitor. Obviously, one of the “Natural Hidden Wonders” of the globe, according to descriptions, is this region.

The Lower Dolpo Trek starts at “Juphal” and travels along a trail to “Dunai,” then to “Tarakot,” before ascending to “Baga la Pass Camp,” the highest point of this journey. The beautiful Phoksundo Lake, which is part of the “Shey Phoksundo National Park,” is reached after passing through the village of “Sanu Bheri.”

Cost Information:- The Lower Dolpo Trek cost of the trip will vary based on the number of people, how long it lasts, and the services needed. To request a quote, please fill out the contact form on our Best Nepal Trek website with your information.

• Detail Itinerary
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Day 01 Your Arrival in Kathmandu (1300 m, 4265 ft) and transfer to the hotel.

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by the vibrant energy of the city and the warm hospitality of its people. After a smooth transfer to your hotel, you can relax and soak in the unique atmosphere of this bustling capital, which serves as the gateway to the majestic Himalayas.

Day 02 Explore Kathmandu Valley Nepalgunj (flight)

We take off from Kathmandu and fly to Nepalgunj while taking in the beautiful scenery. Because of its location in the western part of Nepal, close to the Indian Border, Nepalgunj is a significant commercial hub for many areas. We can take a stroll through Nepalgunj's bustling markets later in the evening. Spend the night in Nepalgunj at a 3-star hotel. 

Day 03 Flight from Nepalgunj to Jhupal and trek to Dunai, 2850 m (9350 ft), 4 hrs. Overnight in tented Camp.

Today, from Nepalgunj, we take a 35-minute flight to Juphal. Our trekking expedition begins as soon as we land in Juphal. We descend to the Bheri River via neighbourhood settlements and terraced fields. As the walk reaches the settlement of Dunai, it continues along the riverbank and passes the Roop Ghar with its water mill. Spend the night at Dunai in a tent camp.

Day 04 Trek from Dunai to Tarakot (2543 m/8343 ft) in 6 hours. Overnight in tented Camp.

Following the upstream path that borders the Bheri River today, we hike to Tarakot. To get to Tarakot, we go along a flat trail with picturesque scenery as a backdrop. As we go over the hill, we also pass through steep canyons, hanging bridges, and deserted settlements. The medieval fortress town of Tarakot, which is situated on a hillside south of the Bheri River, welcomes us as we make further progress on our journey with dry stones and vibrant terraced fields. Spend the night at Tarakot in a tent camp.

Day 05 Tarakot to Laini Odar (3160 m, 10367 ft) 6 hrs. Overnight in tented Camp.

We continue the path that goes to the broad valley along the Bheri River's southern bank. In order to go to Laisicap and cross the main river, we then travel east down the Bharbung Khola. Now, we go north via Tarap Khola to Khanigaon, which provides a stunning view of Sandul Gompa across the valley. We ascend the difficult route one last time to reach Laina Odar while taking in the vista of Putha Hiunchuli (7246) and the Churen Himal Range. tent camp at Laina Odar for the night. 

Day 06 Laini to Nawar Pani (3545 m/11630 ft), 5 hrs. Overnight in tented Camp.

The hike from Laini to Nawar Pani takes approximately 5 hours and covers a distance of 3545 meters (11630 feet). The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a moderate-level trek suitable for experienced hikers. With regularity, the route continues its ascent along the Tarap River's gorge after breakfast.  Being on a route where you have to leap from one side to another to cross a river in a confined space gives you a true sense of being in a remote region. tent camping overnight.

Day 07 Nawar Pani to Dho Tarap (4090 m/13418 ft), 7 hrs. Overnight in tented Camp.

The trek from Nawar Pani to Dho Tarap is challenging, taking approximately 7 hours to complete. With an elevation of 4090 meters (13418 feet), this route offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. It is important for trekkers to be well-prepared and physically fit for this demanding journey. We progressively rise toward Kamattarka, the intersection of Tarap Chu and Lang Khola, as we move along the Tarap River's bank. To go to the settlement of Dho Tarap, we have to cross a little gorge, leave the tree line, and enter a trail that is covered with juniper and wild rose plants. A beautiful town with stone walls around it, Dho Tarap was formerly a well-known commercial hub for traders from Mustang and Tibet. Spend the night at Dho Tarap's tent camp.

Day 08 Acclimatization Day Dho Tarap (4090 m/13418 ft), hrs. Overnight in tented Camp.

We take a day off from hiking and spend the day touring Dho Tarap in order to get used to the thin air. We take advantage of the chance to learn about and comprehend the local culture, tradition, and way of life by spending the remainder of the day seeing the monasteries close by. The residents of Dolpo dress in handcrafted garments and use Tibetan-style somba (boots with pointed toes) for footwear. The two main religions practised here are Bon-Po and Nyigmapa. tent camp at Dho Tarap for the night. Additionally, trekkers can take part in cultural activities and interact with the friendly locals to learn more about their way of life. 

Day 09 Dho Tarap to Numa La Bas Camp (4440 m/14566 ft), 6 hrs. Overnight in tented Camp.

The trek from Dho Tarap to Numala Bas Camp is challenging, taking approximately 6 hours to complete. This section of the trail reaches an altitude of 4440 meters (14566 feet), providing trekkers with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. Today we move towards Numa La Base Camp, following the Tarap Chu River and climbing upwards to Tokyu, a traditional community with an elegant Kani gait and traditional homes. We proceed northwest along the main route after crossing a bridge to Khanger. After that, we go on hiking along the difficult terrain until we arrive at Numa La Base Camp. Tented camp in Numa La Base Camp for the night. 

Day 10 Numa La Pass to Danighar via Numa La Pass (5310 m), 6-7 hours. Overnight in tented Camp.

This is the first day of a challenging trip to reach Numa La Pass (5310m). On the hard and rocky route, we climb up high slopes on top of infinite ridges. We are rewarded with breathtaking views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m), the Churen Himal Range, and Norbung Kang as we reach the summit (6085m). After pausing for a while, we continue our descent down the Gyambo Khola, passing past the lovely Danighar meadow. In Danighar, spend the night at a tent camp.

Day 11 Danighar to Temche/Yak Kharka (4000 m) via Baga La Pass (5172 m), 5–6 h. Overnight in tented Camp.

We leave Danighar behind and travel via Baga La, another pass, to reach Temche (5170m). We climb steeply on the run-down yak track. We might need to exert more energy as we ascend owing to the quick elevation rise. Sacred Chortens with a magnificent view of Norbung Kang (6085m) and other peaks, as well as the captivating Phoksundo Lake, can be found at the summit of the pass. To get to Temche, we subsequently plunge into a wide gorge and cross a frozen river. Spend the night at Temche in a tent camp.

Day 12 Yak Kharka to Phoksundo Lake (3600 m, /11811 ft), 4 hrs. Overnight in tented Camp.

From Temche, we first drop to Yak Kharka and then rise to the town of Ringmo, going through a woodland trail lined with luxuriant oak, pine, juniper, and cypress trees. With the breathtaking sight of soaring cliffs and a sizable waterfall, we travel to Ringmo village, a well-known Bon town in the Dolpo region. We go a short distance from Ringmo to the stunning Phoksundo Lake. Tented camp in Shey Phoksundo Lake for the night.

Day 13 Rest Day and Explore Phoksundo Lake (3600 m), Overnight in tented Camp.

We take another day off from hiking and use it to visit Ringmo village and Phoksundo Lake. Phoksundo Lake is a stunning lake with a turquoise hue that is also thought to be the deepest lake in Nepal. From the Lake, we get a beautiful view of Ringmo village. We tour the surrounding Ringmo town and visit the 900-year-old Tshowa (Bon Monastery). Above the lake region, we also come across a great number of stunning glaciers. Tented camp in Shey Phoksundo Lake for the night.

Day 14 Shey Phoksundo Lake to Chhepka Village (2678m), 5-6 hours Overnight in tented Camp.

Today's hike to Chhepka begins with a leisurely stroll down the riverbank and then climbs steeply to the top of a hill for the final glimpse of the stunning Phoksundo Lake. From there, we go downhill for a bit until arriving at Chunuwar. The route then turns toward Rechi through a pine and birch woodland. We finally reach Chhepka after a slow ascent that alternates between uphill and downhill sections of the trail. tent camp at Chhepka for the night.

Day 15 Trek from Chhepka to Juphal (2475m), 5-6 hours. Overnight in tented Camp.

As we leave Chhepka, we go via the communities of Shyanta and Kageni as we make our way to Juphal. We travel from Shyanta to the Shey Phoksundo National Park checkpoint through a forest trail. Next, after crossing the Dhim Khola on the metal suspension bridge, we travel to Juphal through lovely fields of wheat and barley. Juphal tent camp for the night. 

Day 16 Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj, then to Kathmandu in the afternoon.

We take an early-morning, beautiful flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj. We travel to Nepalgunj and board the subsequent aircraft to Kathmandu. We take you to your hotel in Kathmandu, where you can rest and unwind for the remainder of the day. You may explore the local restaurants in the capital city later in the evening. Stay in a Kathmandu 3-star hotel.

Day 17 Final Departure day for your own ward.

Today marks the end of your journey across Nepal. A member of our staff will drive you and your group to Tribhuwan International Airport for your last departure. We wish you and your team a happy return from your vacation in Nepal. I forward to seeing you soon.

Cost Includes

• The airport picks you up and drops you off in a private vehicle.
• Hotel in Kathmandu accommodation with B.B plan.
• Transportation to and from Kathmandu by air or road, as per itinerary.
• There are 3 meals per day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), including coffee and tea. 
• Accommodation in tea houses or provided tents during the trek is mentioned in the trek type.
• Accommodation, including breakfast, is available at 3–4 star hotels in Kathmandu.
• an experienced government-licensed guide and necessary porters during the trek. 
• all government taxes; tourist service charge; guide/porter insurance and salary.
• general equipment for camping and national park and conservation area fees. 
• An Experienced Tour Guide (Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur). 
• All trekking permits and National Park fees.
• Farewell dinner in a Nepali cultural restaurant in Kathmandu

Cost Excludes

• Your international airfare, 
• international airport departure tax, trekking equipment, and 
• major meals, such as lunch and dinner, during your stay in Kathmandu. 
• any type of personal expenses, such as alcoholic beverages and drinks, phone and laundry. 
• entrance visa fee (duration: 60 days from the date of issue). 
• You may easily obtain the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport-Kathmandu. 
• Rescue and travel insurance, trip cancellation costs, accident or health emergency, evacuation.
• If loss, theft, or damage to baggage and personal effects occurs, 
• We strongly advise you to take out personal travel insurance.
• Tips for the guide and porter

The Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal, known for its remote and rugged beauty. Here is some useful information to help you plan your trek:

Permits: To trek in the Lower Dolpo region, you need to obtain two permits: the Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit and the Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit. These permits can be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Nepal, and you'll need to provide the necessary documents, such as your passport and passport-sized photographs.

Trekking Season: The best time to trek in the Lower Dolpo region is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is relatively stable, with clear skies and mild temperatures. However, be prepared for cold nights, especially at higher altitudes.

Trek Duration: The Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek usually takes around 20-25 days to complete, depending on your itinerary and walking pace. This includes the time needed for acclimatization and exploration of the region.

Altitude and Acclimatization: Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek reaches high altitudes, with passes exceeding 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). Proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness. Make sure to include rest days in your itinerary to allow your body to adjust to higher elevations.

Physical Fitness: The Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek is considered a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness. It involves long walking hours, steep ascents and descents, and rugged terrains. Prior trekking experience and regular exercise beforehand will help you prepare for the trek.

Accommodation: Accommodation options along the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek are basic and limited. Teahouses and guesthouses are available in some villages but be prepared for basic facilities such as shared rooms and common toilets. It's advisable to carry a sleeping bag and other essential camping gear, as you may need to camp in some remote areas.

Food and Water: Most teahouses along the trail offer basic meals, including dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), noodles, and Tibetan bread. It's recommended to carry some energy bars, snacks, and water purification tablets for the trek, as the availability of packaged foods may be limited. Staying hydrated is crucial, so drink plenty of water and avoid drinking untreated water from natural sources.

Packing List: Some essential items to pack for the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek include trekking boots, warm clothing layers (including a down jacket and thermal wear), a good quality sleeping bag, trekking poles, a first aid kit, a headlamp, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a backpack. It's also essential to pack a comprehensive map and a compass or GPS device for navigation.

Remember to consult with a reputable trekking agency or guide for detailed information about the trek, as they can provide up-to-date information, help with logistics, and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in the Lower Dolpo region.

Certainly! Here are some frequently asked questions about the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek:

Q: What is the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek?

A: The Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek is a challenging trekking route located in the Dolpa region of Nepal. It takes you through remote and untouched landscapes, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and providing an opportunity to experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the local people.

Q: How long is the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek?

A: The Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek is usually a 17 to 21-day trek, depending on the itinerary and the pace of the trekking group.

Q: What is the best time to do the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek?

A: The best time to undertake the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, making it ideal for trekking.

Q: Is a permit required for the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek?

A: Yes, a special permit is required to trek in the Lower Dolpo region. You need to obtain both the Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit and the Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit. These permits are issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu.

Q: How difficult is the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek?

A: The Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek is considered a challenging trek, mainly due to its remote location and high altitude. The trail involves long and steep ascents and descents, and you may need to cross high passes. It is recommended for experienced trekkers with a good level of fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience.

Q: What is the maximum altitude reached during the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek?

A: The highest point on the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek is the Numa La Pass, which stands at an elevation of approximately 5,190 meters (17,030 feet) above sea level.

Q: Are there any accommodation facilities along the trekking route?

A: Accommodation options along the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek are limited, as it is a remote region. Tea houses and basic lodges are available in some villages, but they may not always be available or of the same standard as in more popular trekking regions. It is advisable to carry your own camping equipment for some parts of the trek.

Q: Is it necessary to hire a guide and porter for the trek?

A: Hiring a guide and porter is not mandatory for the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek, but it is highly recommended, especially if you are not familiar with the region or do not have prior experience in high-altitude trekking. A guide can help navigate the trail and provide valuable insights into the local culture, while a porter can assist with carrying your heavy backpack, allowing you to focus on enjoying the trek.

Q: What should I pack for the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek?

A: Some essential items to pack for the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek include warm clothing, a good-quality sleeping bag, sturdy trekking boots, a waterproof backpack, trekking poles, a first aid kit, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a water purification system. It is important to pack light and carry only the necessary items.

These are just a few frequently asked questions about the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek. It's always recommended to do thorough research and consult with a reputable trekking agency or experienced trekkers before embarking on this challenging adventure.

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Dolpo Trek Great Himalaya Trail, Nepal  •  18,275'  •  5570m Expedition Details Dates and Prices

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Upper Dolpo Nepal Trek to Mustang on the Great Himalaya Trail

This is the ultimate trek for the traveler who's done it all and is still seeking a truly rewarding experience. We cross 9 demanding high passes, the highest is 18,275 feet! Our journey begins in the lowlands of Lower Dolpo following lush valleys and steep river canyons typical to the south side of the Himalayas. When we cross the first pass, we enter the distinctive heights of the Tibetan Plateau, upper Dolpo. Over 24 days of trekking we bounce back and forth between these two worlds. To make this journey even cooler, we extend the trek by departing the regular route and traversing to Mustang on the soon to be famous Great Himalaya Trail.

Expedition Highlights

• This is an impressive traverse across remote and rarely visited regions. We see very few trekkers, especially when we leave Dolpo and traverse the high passes to the Kingdom of Mustang. This is "old" Nepal and when we say "off the beaten path," we really mean it on this one. No backtracking!
• We bring "regulars" from the IMG Sherpa Team. These guys are the best in the biz and it's worth bringing them half-way across Nepal to make this trek the best it can be.
• Explore the shores of Phoksundo Lake in Ringmo, a village established on the 40,000 year old landslide / natural dam that created the lake. The lake is almost 500' deep and must be seen in person to appreciate the magnificent color of the water. We take a rest day here and visit the 900 year old Thashung Gompa on the eastern side of the lake. (See pictures in the 2013 Dolpo trip report » )
• Trek the valley of the Kali Gandaki between two 8000m peaks, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna.
• For those with an interest in Tibetan culture, Dolpo is as Tibetan as it gets. Isolated and governed by Nepal, Dolpo is "more Tibetan than Tibet" in 2015.
• In 2013 we saw snow leopard tracks. Dolpo's isolation makes it home to the largest snow leopard population on Earth. For you literary buffs, this is the region that Peter Matthiessen and George Schaller explored in the classic book " The Snow Leopard ."

A note from IMG Guide Adam Angel

I led the first IMG Dolpo Trek in 2013, and it was the most incredible trek I've ever done. Dolpo is super-remote and more committing and strenuous than some of the other treks out there. BUT, if you can put one foot in front of the other, the acclimatization schedule is perfect. We travel self-sufficiently like we did before lodges and teahouses inundated popular trekking regions of Nepal; staying in our own tents and eating from our own kitchen complete with cooks. We'll pick up chickens or a goat every now and then as we eat down our supplies! Once we hit the trail there is no easy way out, so show up healthy and in great shape. I have no doubt that you will find this trek very rewarding. Check out my 2013 Dolpo trip report to see pictures and get a feel for the trek.

Expedition Organization and Leadership

International Mountain Guides (IMG) IMG is the oldest and most respected high-altitude climbing service in the world and its Himalayan mountaineering programs are organized and directed by Eric Simonson. Their teams include a group of professionals and Sherpas who are the best in the business. Since 1990, we have conducted over 60 Himalayan 8000 meter expeditions and over 800 IMG team members have summited the world's classic 8,000-meter peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu and Shishapangma.

IMG's Philosophy IMG leads the way! Our goal is to minimize risk while helping as many members as possible reach their goal, and we invest in the logistics and manpower to make this possible. We will not sit back and let other teams do the work. Invariably, our IMG Sherpas are part of the rope fixing efforts and the first team to the summit, preparing the route for future summit bids. We value our reputation as one of the premiere international climbing companies. If you would like to join a world-class team on Everest, we encourage you to contact us to discuss your goals and qualifications for membership in the IMG Everest team!

Ang Jangbu and the IMG Sherpa Team A veteran of dozens of expeditions and an Everest summiter, Ang Jangbu has worked on every IMG Himalayan program since 1991 and is a very popular leader. Ang Jangbu Sherpa and his staff put together one of the very best Sherpa teams for IMG. We are proud to have a group of Sherpas working for us who are among the best paid, best led, best equipped, and best trained in the business.

Joining a high-altitude trek or expedition is a serious decision. You should be completely confident in the organization and leadership before you make that decision. Many of you have climbed with us before, and because your experience with us was good, you're considering another climb with us. For those of you who haven't climbed with us before, we strongly encourage you to interview us thoroughly and also talk to our past clients. When you're ready to make the decision, we'll be happy to provide you with a complete list of references. Please also browse comments online from our trekkers and climbers.

Dolpo Trek Nepal

Upper dolpo trek.

Upper Dolpo Trek Nepal to travel around Dolpa

Discover the Mystical Beauty of Upper Dolpo by trek through breathtaking landscapes, ancient Tibetan culture, and untouched wilderness. With its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, the Upper Dolpo Trek has gained recognition as one of the most remarkable and rewarding treks in the world. you traverse through dramatic valleys, towering snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes. the trails, you’ll witness the grandeur of the Dhaulagiri and Kanjiroba mountain ranges, which serve as a majestic backdrop throughout the journey. Upper Dolpo is not just about the captivating landscapes; it is also a treasure trove of ancient Tibetan culture and traditions. The region has remained isolated from the modern world for centuries, allowing its inhabitants to preserve their unique way of life. The local people, mainly of Tibetan origin, practice Buddhism and have a deep spiritual connection with their land.

The sense of accomplishment as you conquer high passes, such as the Numa La and Baga La, is indescribable. The panoramic views from these vantage points are nothing short of breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. The raw beauty of the landscape, coupled with the feeling of being in an untouched wilderness, creates an experience that is both humbling and awe-inspiring.

Upper Dolpo Trek is an extraordinary adventure that takes trekkers to the heart of an untouched Himalayan wilderness, where nature and culture blend harmoniously. From the surreal landscapes to the rich cultural heritage, every step of the journey is filled with wonder and discovery.

The Upper Dolpo Trek is a challenging but rewarding trek that offers an unforgettable experience of Nepal’s remote and unspoiled wilderness. The Upper Dolpo Trek is a challenging but rewarding trek that takes you into one of the most remote and unspoiled regions of Nepal. The trek begins in the town of Juphal, in the Jumla district, and follows an ancient trade route that links Dolpo with Tibet. The trek passes through a variety of landscapes, including lush forests, arid deserts, deep canyons, and high mountain passes.The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is home to a variety of wildlife, including snow leopards, ibex, and Tibetan gazelles.The people of Dolpo are Tibetan Buddhists and their culture is rich in tradition and spirituality. The trek passes through a number of monasteries, including the Shey Gompa, which is one of the oldest monasteries in Dolpo.

. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is home to a variety of wildlife, including yaks, snow leopards, and Tibetan antelopes.

Upper Dolpo Trek: A Journey Through the Hidden Land of Nepal. Upper Dolpo Trek is an adventurous journey through the remote and isolated region of Dolpo in western Nepal. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and spiritual experiences. This trek is considered one of the most challenging and remote treks in Nepal, but it is also one of the most rewarding and unforgettable journeys.

Cost: The cost of the Upper Dolpo Trek depends on the season and the type of trek you choose. The average cost of the trek ranges from $2000 to $3000, including transportation, food, accommodation, permits, and insurance.

Distance: The total distance of the Upper Dolpo Trek is approximately 200 km, which covers the trek from Juphal to Jomsom and back. The trek passes through several remote villages, high passes, and deep valleys.

Duration: The duration of the Upper Dolpo Trek is usually 20 to 25 days, depending on the pace of the trekker and the trail conditions. It is a long and challenging trek that requires physical and mental preparation.

Difficulty: The Upper Dolpo Trek is considered a strenuous trek due to its high altitude, remote location, and rough terrain. It is not recommended for inexperienced trekkers or those with health issues. However, with proper preparation and a positive attitude, anyone with a good level of fitness can enjoy the trek.

Permits: To undertake the Upper Dolpo Trek, you need to obtain a special permit called the Restricted Area Permit. This permit is issued by the Nepalese government and can only be obtained through authorized trekking agencies. The cost of the permit is approximately $500 per person.

Highlights: The Upper Dolpo Trek is full of breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences. Some of the highlights of the trek include: Shey Phoksundo National Park, which is home to the turquoise blue Shey Phoksundo Lake The ancient village of Ringmo, which is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Nepal The high passes of Numa La and Baga La, which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains The traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture of the Dolpo region, including monasteries and stupas

Best time to go: The best time to go on the Upper Dolpo Trek is from May to October, when the weather is stable and the trails are clear. During this time, the skies are clear and the views of the mountains are at their best. However, it is important to be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions, especially at high altitudes. In conclusion, the Upper Dolpo Trek is a challenging and rewarding journey that takes you through the hidden land of Nepal. With its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and spiritual experiences, it is an unforgettable adventure that is well worth the effort.

Upper Dolpo Trek is a breathtaking journey through the snow-capped mountains and deep valleys of the Himalayas. The journey takes you through some of the wildest and most beautiful landscapes in the world and offers a chance to explore the timeless culture and traditions of the region. The trek starts from Dunai, a small town to the north of the Himalayas, and takes you through stunning passes and mesmerizing high altitude lakes. The trek takes about 19 days to complete, covering a distance of approximately 115 kilometres.

The cost of the trek depends on the number of people and the duration of the trip, but is generally around $1000-1200 per person. The trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty with some challenging sections. It is important to be physically fit and acclimatize properly while undertaking the trek. A TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) permit is required to undertake this trek, which can be obtained in advance from the Department of Immigration, Kathmandu. The highlight of the trek is a visit to the dramatic Shey Phoksundo Lake and the ancient Shey Gompa monastery.

The best time to go on the Upper Dolpo Trek is from April to May and September to October, when the weather is mild and the mountain views are clear. Upper Dolpo Trek is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. From the majestic views of the high-altitude lakes to the ancient and spiritual atmosphere of the monasteries, this trek is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags and start planning your next adventure!

The Upper Dolpo Trek is a challenging but rewarding trek in Nepal’s remote Dolpo region. It takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the country, including the Shey Phoksundo Lake, the highest lake in Nepal, and the Kanjiroba Himal mountain range. The highlight of the trek is the Shey Phoksundo Lake, a turquoise lake surrounded by glaciers and snow-capped peaks. The lake is said to be sacred to the local people, and it’s a truly magical place to visit. Exploring the Hidden Gem: Upper Dolpo Trek

Nestled in the remote corners of Nepal lies a trekking experience like no other: the Upper Dolpo Trek. This trek offers intrepid adventurers an opportunity to explore a region steeped in ancient Tibetan culture, rugged landscapes, and a sense of isolation that takes you back in time. With its challenging trails, unique cultural insights, and breathtaking vistas, the Upper Dolpo Trek has earned its reputation as a hidden gem in the world of trekking.

A Glimpse into Upper Dolpo:

The Upper Dolpo region is located in northwestern Nepal, bordering Tibet. It is renowned for its pristine natural beauty and distinct Tibetan culture. The landscape of Upper Dolpo is a mesmerizing blend of barren high plateaus, deep valleys, turquoise lakes, and towering snow-capped peaks. The Shey Phoksundo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the main attractions of the area, offering a sanctuary for rare wildlife such as the snow leopard and the blue sheep.

Cultural Richness:

One of the most captivating aspects of the Upper Dolpo Trek is its deep-rooted Tibetan culture. The region has maintained its cultural heritage for centuries due to its isolation. The inhabitants of Upper Dolpo are primarily of Tibetan descent and practice a form of Tibetan Buddhism, which is evident in the many ancient monasteries and chortens (Buddhist shrines) that dot the landscape.

The traditional villages along the trekking route offer a glimpse into a way of life that remains relatively untouched by modernity. The people of Upper Dolpo have preserved their traditional dress, language, and customs, providing trekkers with a unique opportunity to engage with an authentic and ancient way of life.

The Trekking Experience:

The Upper Dolpo Trek is not for the faint-hearted. The journey takes trekkers through challenging trails that traverse high mountain passes, steep ascents, and rugged terrain. The elevation adds an element of difficulty, with some sections reaching altitudes above 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). Trekkers need to be physically fit and mentally prepared for the demands of the trek.

The main trekking season for Upper Dolpo is from May to October when the weather is relatively stable. However, even during these months, trekkers should be prepared for sudden weather changes, including snowfall and extreme cold. The remoteness of the region also means that facilities are basic, and trekkers should be self-sufficient and well-equipped with proper gear and supplies.

Highlights of the Trek:

Phoksundo Lake: The trek leads to the stunning Phoksundo Lake, one of the deepest freshwater lakes in Nepal. The lake’s mesmerizing turquoise waters are set against a backdrop of rugged mountains, creating a surreal and picturesque landscape.

Shey Gompa: The ancient Shey Gompa is a significant spiritual site and a focal point of the trek. This monastery, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and is a place of pilgrimage for both locals and trekkers.

Crossing High Passes: The Upper Dolpo Trek takes trekkers over challenging high passes like the Nangdala Pass and the Kang La Pass. These crossings not only provide a sense of accomplishment but also reward trekkers with breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks.

Remote Villages: Trekking through traditional villages like Saldang, Yangze, and Dho Tarap allows trekkers to interact with the friendly locals and witness their way of life up close.

Permits and Regulations:

Due to its remote location and unique cultural significance, the Upper Dolpo region requires special permits for trekking. Trekkers are required to obtain both a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and a Restricted Area Permit. These permits are meant to regulate tourism and protect the delicate ecosystem and cultural heritage of the region.

Preserving the Beauty:

While the allure of the Upper Dolpo Trek is undeniable, it is crucial for trekkers to approach the journey responsibly. The region’s fragile environment and culture can easily be disturbed by irresponsible tourism. Trekkers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles, respect local customs, and contribute positively to the communities they encounter.

Conclusion:

The Upper Dolpo Trek is not merely a physical journey through remote landscapes; it is a journey through time and culture. It offers a chance to step into an ancient world, where traditions and natural beauty remain untouched by the modern world. The challenges of the trek are outweighed by the rewards of experiencing an authentic way of life, breathtaking vistas, and a sense of accomplishment that comes from treading where few have ventured. If you seek adventure, cultural immersion, and a connection with the untouched beauty of the Himalayas, the Upper Dolpo Trek should undoubtedly be on your bucket list.

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Upper Dolpo Trek

(based on 15 reviews)

The Dolpo region, nestled between the high Tibetan plateau and the Dhaulagiri region, is the Shangri-la of your fantasies. The majority of the terrain is undiscovered and undeveloped, making it ideal for hikers who wish to escape the crowded main trekking routes.

At Dolpo, you will encounter Bon Pot, an ancient Pre-Buddhist religion and culture far removed from your hectic home life. With a bit of luck, you may encounter unusual species such as Blue Sheep, Snow Leopards, Mountain Goats, and Himalayan Langurs on the Trek.

Upper Dolpo Trekking is an experience of a lifetime. Trekking to the distant and secluded part of the central-western region of Nepal and observing the scenery in its naturally harsh state and isolation can help you to comprehend.

Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Chure Himal ranges border the east and south skylines, respectively. Dhaulagiri was once believed to be the tallest peak in the world! From upper Dolpa, the view of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Kanjiroba is truly royal.

Before 1989, the entire district was off-limits to trekkers. This has made this location one of the most ancient and well-preserved in the world. Few anthropologists and geographers explored the region in the past. Explore the Upper Dolpo and get off the main path!

Upper Dolpo Trek Highlights

Discover the enchanting beauty of Shey Phoksundo Lake, renowned for its pristine, crystal-clear waters and stunning turquoise hue.Experience a one-of-a-kind camping adventure amidst the diverse landscapes of the area, uncovering its hidden treasures along the way.

Buddhist holy places are significant locations within the Buddhist tradition. Crystal Mountain and Shey Gompa are two places that are known for their unique Bon Buddhist culture.Experience breathtaking mountain views as you traverse high passes over 5000 meters. Immerse yourself in the local culture by meeting friendly locals and explore ancient monasteries along the way.

I recommend visiting the medieval village of Saldang and the nomad camps at Dho Tarap, which is known as the highest human settlement in the world.Discover a wide range of plant and animal species in the captivating Shey Phoksundo National Park.

The Best time for Upper Dolpo Trek

The best time for the Upper Dolpo Trek is during the post-monsoon autumn season (September to November). This period offers the most favorable weather and trekking conditions for a successful and enjoyable trek. The Upper Dolpo Trek is a remote and challenging trekking route, and trekking with a guide or through a reputable trekking agency is highly recommended for safety, cultural understanding, and logistical support. The Dolpo region has a unique cultural and natural environment, so it's important to approach the trek with respect for local customs and traditions.

Program Itinerary

Day 1 - arrival in nepal..

When you arrive at Tibhuvan International Airport, our guide will pick you up and take you to your hotel in the bustling Thamel district of Kathmandu. Depending on your arrival time, you can choose to relax for the next journey, see the city's attractions, or shop for adventure gear in one of Kathmandu's many adventure supply stores. We'll assemble our bikes and be ready for the journey in the afternoon.

Day 2 - Trekking permit arrangement.

We'll start the day early and drink some coffee from the Himalayas before beginning the six-hour drive to Besisahar. We'll get to visit Nepal's stunning countryside away from bustling Kathmandu. There will be time to take in the scenery and have lunch as you go through its numerous lush, terraced farms. We will meet our local porters for the journey once we arrive in Besisahar and start getting ready for the ride the following day. The first of many teahouses on the journey will be where we have our first welcome dinner and spend the night.

Day 3 - Flight to Kathmandu (150m).

Today, we will fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (60 minutes). After an exhausting day, you have the option of spending the evening at your hotel or exploring Nepalgunj. It is a bustling city that warrants exploration. This will also help you unwind before the hike.

Day 4 - Flight to Jupal (2,400 m) and trek to Dunai (2150m).

We will take another tiny plane from Nepalgunj to Juphal. Our flight will last approximately 35 minutes. After touching down in Juphal, we will meet up with our hiking crew and travel through the verdant terraced farms along the Bheri River and the narrow canyon. We will reach the settlement of Dunai after a three-hour journey. We shall spend the night here.

Day 5 - Trek to Ankhe (2600m) 6-hour.

Before moving west from Dunai, we shall cross a suspension bridge. At the confluence of the Thuri Bheri and Suli Gad rivers, we will follow the Suli Gad northward. In the backdrop, we shall journey gradually with the sound of the river prospering. We will through fields of hemp, millet, pumpkin, and potatoes. We shall continue our journey along the river until we reach the Hanke village. It serves as the entrance to Shey Phoksundo National Park. To reach Ankhe, we shall traverse Parela and Rahagaon on foot. Fascinatingly, Parela means eyelashes, Rahagaon means eyebrows, and Ankhe signifies eyeballs.

Day 6 - Trek to Renje (3104m) 7 hours.

Today, the walk becomes a little more difficult. After crossing a diminishing river via well-constructed bridges, we will ascend a narrow, steep trail. From there, we shall descend down the river for some time before ascending once more. We will appreciate the breathtaking panorama of the surrounding landscape. We may camp along the Suligad River bank.

Day 7 - Trek to Phoksundo Lake (3600m) 7 hours.

We shall begin our day at an early hour. The first few hours of the walk will be rather uncomplicated. From Sumdo, we'll plummet precipitously. We will ascend a peak at 3,875 meters from which we will have an amazing view of the 300-meter waterfall. This waterfall is the largest in Nepal. We are also able to view Phoksundo Lake. We will descend through gorgeous Birch trees to reach the Phoksundo Khola and the picturesque village of Ringmo, which is adorned with Chortens and Mani walls made of mud plaster. It is a dynamic and active village. From here, we will go a short way to reach the Phoksundo Lake shoreline. The lake will serve as the backdrop for our overnight camp.

Day 8 - Trek to Phoksundo Khola (3507m) 7 hours.

We will follow the exciting trail that is hung on a wooden boardwalk supported by pegs driven into rock crevices. We will ascend steeply to 4,040 meters, then descend to the valley floor to reach the Shey Phoksundo Khola riverbank. Here we will spend the night camping.

Day 9 - Trek to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4402m) 7 hours.

We will cross a couple creeks barefoot today! We will traverse the glacial valley and continue northward. As the trail continues to narrow, we will traverse spectacular vertical cliffs and twisted rock formations. At the confluence of the Phoksundo river and another unidentified river, we discover an antique wooden bridge. A long, arduous ascent will lead us to a sheep-grazing area from where the trail will ascend a quiet gorge. Then, another arduous ascent to the summit awaits. It will lead us to a different valley from which we will be able to observe the perilous Kang La Pass. Even before we arrive, we set up camp.

Day 10 - Cross the Kang La Pass (5,151 meters) and hike to Shey Gompa (4126m)

Today will be arduous. It will take us approximately three hours to reach the summit of the 5151-meter-high Kang La Pass. The vista from the summit will be worth all the effort. While descending, greater caution is required. A stunning red Chorten will commemorate your entrance at Shey Gompa. We will spend the night in a tent in the Shey Gompa compound, which will be reached over an old-fashioned wood bridge.

Day 11 - Explore Shey Gompa.

Shey translates literally to crystal in Tibetan. This monastic complex is also known as Crystal Mountain. We may visit the Shey Gompa and receive the Lama's blessings. West of Shey, we can also visit the Tsakang Gompa. During the Middle Ages, this was a center for meditation for lamas. The monastery was constructed in the eleventh century. Here, Tibetan Buddhism and the ancient pre-Buddhist faith Bon Po are harmoniously combined. We can subsequently tour the area and its surroundings.

Day 12 - Cross Saldang La Pass (4785m) and hike to Namduna Gaon (4400m) 7 hours.

We will begin the day by hiking along a trail lined with juniper bushes. We shall ascend a gloomy, stony canyon. It begins with a meandering trail of boulders and degraded dirt and will lead us to a picnic-friendly level area. After twenty minutes of tough ascent, we will reach the summit of Saldand La Pass. From this vantage point, we can appreciate the magnificent view of Mustang's arid, copper-colored environment. Then, we'll descend the northern slope. The sight of grazing yaks and nomadic tents fashioned from yak hair will be warm and inviting. This signifies your entry into the Namduna Gaon. Here, we can see the Namgung Monastery, which is situated against a cliff. The village consists of only six homes and two sides of terraced fields. We can observe expansive Barley fields, the primary crop of the region. We are able to visit the nearby monastery.

Day 13 - Trek to Saldang (3903m) 4 hours.

We will ascend as we leave the Namjung Valley. We begin with a lengthy and exhilarating mountain crossing. At the bottom of the valley, terraced fields of ripening crops are visible. We will ascend for some distance before descending to the picturesque settlement of Salding. Salding is situated high above the Nam Khong Nala River on a plateau. It is the largest community in the district.

Day 14 - Trek to Sibu (3942m) 5 hours.

We will depart Saldang in the early hours of the morning and travel along the riverbank and terraced fields until we reach the stupas and Chortens. On the way, we can observe numerous Mani stones and visit the Chaiba Monastery. We will travel through Namdo, a flourishing village with sixty dwellings and four hundred inhabitants. We can visit the Namdo monastery and observe an additional monastery on the cliff's edge. Along the riverbank, we will camp close to the community called Sibu. A wonderful camping site.

Day 15 - Trek to the foot of Jeng La Pass (4369m) 4 hours.

Following the diminishing river, the first few hours of the hike will be very straightforward. Two hours later, we will cross a second creek before turning into a side valley. The ascent from there is really steep. We will eventually approach a nice, rock-strewn meadow.

Day 16 - Cross Jeng La Pass (4845m) and trek to Tokyu Gaon (4240m) 7 hours.

The trail is currently compacted, making trekking easier. Occasionally, however, it becomes quite steep. Two hours are required to reach the summit of Jeng La. The view of the Dhaulagiri Massif from this location is simply stunning. After a difficult descent towards the Tarap Valley, we will arrive at a verdant valley. The valley that opens before us, Tarap Chu, is simply lovely. Along the Tarap Chu, its broad plains surrounded by snowy mountains extend for 20 kilometers. When we reach Tokyu Gaon, we will be able to tour Gompas and Chortens. We can spend the night within the grounds of the Tokyu Monastery. The monastery is affiliated with the Chaiba sect.

Day 17 - Trek to Dho Tarap (4,090m) 4 hours.

Today's trail is wide and fairly simple. We will through farms where men and women will be busy gathering crops. We can also observe Mani Walls and Chortens, many of which are in need of repair. Tarap is primarily occupied by Magars, with a small Tibetan population. People in this area practice either Bon Po or Buddhism. Here, we can visit the Gompa and be blessed by the resident Lama. We shall once again spend the night in a camp.

Day 18 - Trek to Serkam (3630m) — 6.5 hours.

Following the Tarap Khola route, we shall descend. On our way, we shall traverse some narrow canyons. Here we may encounter blue sheep, yaks, and people grazing their yaks and goats. As we climb away from the river, the path will become more undulating. We shall traverse a contemporary suspension bridge. The trail can become quite tight at times. We will spend the night in a campground.

Day 19 - Trek to Khani Gaon (2250m) 6 hours.

We will continue our descent down the Tarap River canyon. We will hike on a variety of trails today. From wide and simple to rather narrow and steep. We will also ascend the flights of man-made staircases, which require some caution. Our campsite will be a lovely, picturesque meadow in the shade of tall trees.

Day 20 - Trek to Tarakot (2281m) 4 hours.

As we leave Khani Gaon and its surrounding mountains, we cross a recently constructed suspension bridge before trekking along the river. We sometimes ascend and sometimes descend. Occasionally, the terrain can get more difficult, and we will also cross some rivers on wet stepping stones.

Day 21 - Trek back to Dunai (2052m) 5 hours.

We will spend the majority of our time descending, leaving the adventurous excursions behind. We'll walk by the resonant Bheri River till we reach Dunai. We have finished the magnificent Dolpo circuit. Now we relax, and if we have enough energy left, we will explore Dunai..

Day 22 - Trek to Juphal (2052m).

We shall return to the village of Juphal by foot. Initially, the trail is wide and flat, but as we ascend, it quickly becomes more steep. We will stay one additional night in a camp.

Day 23 - Flight to Nepalgunj and then to Kathmandu.

Breakfast and we take a morning flight to Nepalgunj and another afternoon flight to Kathmandu. Free time for relaxation in Kathmandu.

Day 24 - Free day in Kathmandu.

Today, it is your free day in Kathmandu for relaxation after 3 weeks trekking.

Day 25 - Departure from Nepal.

Today we will take you to the airport to catch your flight out of Nepal. Alternatively, if you'd like to stay longer, we may make additional travel arrangements to assist you continue your Nepalexperience.

Include/Exclude

Price includes.

• All necessary ground transfers.
• All necessary accommodations as per the itinerary.
• Tea House accommodations during the trek.
• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trekking.
• All necessary paper works.
• All necessary trekking permits.
• Experienced and First Aid-trained trekking guide.
• Strong, helpful porters.
• Comprehensive medical supplies.
• Trekking map.
• Insurance of all local team.
• Warm clothing and trekking gear for staff.
• Sleeping bag and trip duffle bag.
• Trekking certificate issued by us.
• Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu.

Price Excludes

• Nepal Visa fee.
• International flights.
• All meals not mentioned in inclusions.
• Personal expenses not stipulated.
• Optional add-ons.
• Gratuities.

Guest Reviews

Aussie Couple

Raj and his team are awesome. Especially after seeing how other travel companies in Nepal have functioned, not only are they on top of everything, but the guides and porters working with the company are treated really well. The morning we were meant to leave for Lukla, the plane kept getting delayed. By 9 am our guides had a chopper organised to take us, where we later chatted to people who only got on one at around 2 pm and ended up hiking in the dark. We also saw multiple porters carrying more than one duffle bag, however, this company limits it to one, for the wellbeing of the porters. I cannot recommend this company enough.

My dad and myself did plan to trek the Annapurna Circuit from Jagat to Jomsom and booked the trip via Raj and Getaway Nepal Adventure. While organizing everything in advance went smooth from the very beginning, we were amazed by the organisation of the whole trip once we arrived in Nepal - starting with a pick-up service in Kathmandu airport, also wisely chosing our guide and our porter (Manisha and Dai) which both were a perfect match to accompany us on our trekking. Both were very thoughtful and we felt like a companionship from the very beginning, but also very professional when it came to all concerns regarding the hike, like proper acclimatisation, the daily hike and everything besides. Overall organisation has been extraordinary and there hasn't been anything where Raj was not able to support (even after the trip has finished).

This really has been a once-in-a-lifetime trip and we were so happy to have this with Manisha and Dai. If ever planning to do a trekking in Nepal again (and we would love to do soon) we definitely would book with Raj again and his company one more time.

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• Tags: Dolpo
• Himalayan Wander Walkers

An essential guide and Top Tips for Trekking in Dolpo Region of Nepal

Dolpo Trekking is considered as one of the best trekking regions in Nepal where you will experience a different journey in the western Himalayas of Nepal. The sacred crystal mountain, mystical Shey Gompa, ancient villages, Tortoise Lake of Phoksundo, and old Bon Monasteries. Dolpo is the only district where one can find elusive snow leopard to high-value crop Yarsagumba (Chinese caterpillar fungus). Everything that you found in Dolpo is completely natural and not fiction. Dolpo is isolated from the rest of the world and unheard by foreigners until Peter Mathiessen wrote his masterpiece, The Snow Leopard in 1979. Later on French movie director Éric Valli filmed Himalaya so-called Caravan in 1999 which help to introduce Dolpo to the westerners. 

Journey to Dolpo is an evocative account of a remote and tieless place and its people. Nepal is a land of such splendor and mysticism that we often use fictional terms to describe.  

Trekking in Dolpo is an adventure and a privilege to witness remote and beautiful area of Nepal. The scenery is incredible - it really is that you will feel like you are on top of the world! Great opportunities to visit local villages, meet local people, and experience local culture. All the treks that Himalayan Wander Walkers design is suitable for all trekkers with plenty of time to acclimatize and well-paced rest days.

Go through the following details of the travel guide for trekking in Dolpo.

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How you can reach Dolpo?

What are the permits required for dolpo trek, trekking in upper dolpo require following permits, trekking in lower dolpo require following permits, how to get dolpo trekking permits, different treks in dolpo region, variations of treks from dolpo, why you must visit dolpo, how much does it cost for dolpo trek package, how is camping trek in dolpo, how is tea house trek in dolpo, best time of season to visit dolpo, top tips for dolpo trekking, final words.

Dolpo lies in the western Nepal of Shey Phoksundo National Park, bordered in the north by China. Dolpo is one of the biggest districts of Nepal with the neighboring districts of Mustang on the south, Mugu and Jumla on the west, and Rukum on the North.  

Getting to Dolpo in two ways. 

From Nepalgunj take there are regular flights to Juphal, Dolpo. It takes around 35 minutes of flight duration. Summit airlines and Tara airlines operate flights in Dolpo from Nepalgunj. For the flight prices, please do check in the below cost breakdown table. 

• Drive to Dolpo via Nepalgunj, Musikot, Tallu Bagar, Khading and Tripurakot From Kathmandu, there are local buses and Hiace Vans are available to Nepalganj. You can get the ticket at the capital’s well know bus station, Gongabu. The schedule for departure area in the morning and evening. It takes about 12 hours by bus and shorter by Hiace Vans. Nepalgunj is a major transport hub for the western, mid-western, and far-western regions of Nepal. There are buses available at Kohalpur bus station of Nepalgunj which departure to Jajarkot every day. The distance of the road between these two places is around 96 km. This road is good even in the summertime. And from Jajarkot you need to take a local jeeps to Radi (Rari), Tallu Bagar, Khadang and to Tripura. The road is not blacktopped and you need to change your jeep in between due to the lack of highway bridges. Traveling on this road is not recommended during the summertime. If you take a land road to get Dolpo then it takes two days from Nepalgunj to Dunai (2150m) a small town, the headquarter of the district.

This is considered a controlled area that requires a special permit which is very expensive as compared to Annapurna and Everest regions. This is an ultimate trekking destination for those who adore culture and a less crowded trekking route or are done with all trekking in Nepal and still looking for a more rewarding trip. Following permits are necessary for Dolpo Trek except for the TIMs Card which is not compulsory in all restricted trekking areas of Nepal.

• Upper Dolpo restricted permit that cost USD 500 for the first 10 days and for the additional days USD 50 per person per day.  
• Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry fee of USD 30 for Foreigners, NPR 1500 for SAARC nationality and NPR 100 for Nepali visitor. It is one time permits for unlimited 
• If your trekking itinerary start and finish at Dunai or Juphal then you also need two weeks permits of Lower Dolpo which cost USD 20 per person per week. 
• Monasteries entry fee differ from one monastery to other between NPR 200-400 per person. You will need to pay during your visit at monastery.

Upper Dolpo Trek - 26 Days 

• Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry fee of USD 30 for Foreigners, NPR 1500 for SAARC nationality and NPR 100 for Nepali visitor. 

Lower Dolpo Trek - 17 Days

Permits are mandatory to enter Dolpo region for all purpose whether you are visiting by helicopter or trekking. To obtain both Dolpo permits for lower and upper part at least two travelers are required. Restricted permits are issue from Nepal Immigration Department through registered and authorized trekking agencies. If you are single and willing to visit Dolpo but not able to trek there. Please let us know we can help you to prepare your permits. 

Trekking in Dolpo is similar like taking a trip in Bhutan where you are not allow to visit the places individually. You must need local trekking agency to prepare your permits, guides, and even organizing camping trip. 

Shey-Phoksundo National Park entry ticket is issued by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation from Nepal Tourism Board office building at Brikutimandap in Kathmandu. It is also available during your visit at entry point. 

To obtain your Dolpo permits you needs to email us following documents at [email protected] or [email protected]  

• Clean copy of your valid passport (if you already got visa then send a copy of Nepal visa too)
• Copy of your visible passport sized photo (taken within last 6 months)
• International Flight Tickets of Nepal
• Copy of your travel Insurance 
• Covid-19 Vaccinated Certificate 
• Hotel Booking if you booked by yourself

Dolpo is the biggest district of Nepal where you can do many treks Lower Dolpo Trek

1. Inner Dolpo CircuitTrek  Inner Dolpo trek is combination of both lower and Upper Dolpo trek. It takes 25 days from the Kathmandu to Dolpo and return to Kathmandu. Those trekkers who are fit and want to explore Dolpo at single time then this trek is recommended. This trek is possible only by camping style trek where you will cross high passes and experience the Holy Shey Gompa, Phoksundo lake, and old villages like Dho Tarap, Saldang, Tinje,etc.

2. Shey Gompa pilgrimage Shey Gompa Pilgrimage tour is our spiritual trip in Dolpo. This trek is make for spiritual seeker where you will visit Both Bon and Buddhist Pilgrimage sites such as Monasteries, Shrines and Crystal Mountain. Explore the Tibetan culture that remain in the high altitude of Northern Nepal. This trek includes western parts of Dolpo. 

3. Helicopter Tour to Dolpo Riding a helicopter to Dolpo is a luxury Tour in Nepal. This tour is suitable for those who are not fit enough to trek all the way to Dolpo or his/her time doesn’t permit. This tour is Customizable as per your interest. 

4. Phoksundo Trek  This trek can be done in both ways camping and tea house style. This trek require 9 Days from Kathmandu. The main attraction of this trek is the lake itself, Phoksundo Tal. The beauty of this lake had lured heart of all visitors. From the morning till evening its color keep changing and looks amazing. View Details of Phoksundo Tea house Trek

5. Phoksundo Festival Trek The Phoksundo Festival trek is mainly focus to experience the local festive season. This Festival happens during the month of September. This trek is not really difficult as you are not trekking over any high passes. In this trek you will experience unique cultural shows and tradition that held next to beautiful lake, Shey Phoksundo. The trek starts from Juphal, where the only airstrip in Dolpo is located. The trail passes through wonderful Himalayan forests and picturesque traditional villages. The rivers and waterfalls on the trail are some of Nepal’s most magnificent. In addition to natural beauty, the trekking area also is rich in wildlife. 

There are many variations of the Upper Dolpo trek that you can take. One shorter variation is to trek from Juphal to Lake Phoksundo and back, which takes around eight days. Other variations connect Dolpo to Mustang and/or the Annapurna region, to the east. 

• Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang This trek will start from the Juphal of Lower Dolpo following lush valleys and steep river canyons typical to the south side of the Himalayas so-called Upper Dolpo, incomparable to Tibet plateau. To make this journey more colorful, Himalayan Wander Walkers extend the trek without limiting within the Upper Dolpo circuit and traversing to east on Mustang by Completing at Jomsom. View details of Upper Dolpo to Jomsom Trek 

2 . Phoksundo to Rara via Kagmara Pass The Dolpo to Rara Trek via Kagmara Pass is a long multiday trek in the western region of Nepal. This trek takes place in three different districts of Dolpo, Jumla, and Mugu, the most remote regions of Nepal. Trekking from Lower Dolpo to Rara National park is a lake to lake trek where the Phoksundo and Rara lakes are located, the deepest and largest lakes of Nepal respectively.   Crossing Kagmara Pass (5115m) is Challenging yet one of the best treks in Far West Nepal. This 25 days trek to Rara Lake from Dolpo is meant for experienced trekkers, who love to explore the least traveled trekking destination to experience the unspoiled culture, arid landscape, high passes, and the vistas of snow-capped mountains. View Details of Dolpo to Jumla Trek via Kagmara Pass

3. Lower Dolpo to Dhorpatan Trek Dhorpatan Trek is one of the favorite least traveled destinations for trekkers. This trek mostly lies within the valley of Dhorpatan, the only Hunting Reserve in Nepal that linked with three districts of Rukum, Baglun, and Myagdi in the Dhaulagiri region of western Nepal. Hunting is popular in this particular area and it required a special permit which is issued from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation in Kathmandu. Hunting is legally allowed under proper license but with limited operation per year. Trekking to this untouched valley will provide you an opportunity to views mighty western Mountains and witness rare wildlife such as Blue Sheep, Ghoral, Himalayan Thar, and different species of Pheasants including Nepal’s national bird Danphe (Lophophorus).  View Details of Dhorpatan Trek

4. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek lies between the Dolpo and Mustang Region of Nepal. This trek makes a clockwise round to Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters), the seventh highest mountain in the world. Since 1950 AD this area was opened for trekking and first discovered by the team of French Expedition. During the discovery of Dhaulagiri in 1808 AD, the western explorer team thought it was the highest mountain in the world. After decades of years, Everest was discovered and officially became the highest mountain on earth. It is one of the most adventurous and challenging camping treks in Nepal. Thus, Himalayan Wander Walkers organized a full camping trek to the Dhaulagiri circuit with the support of our Sherpa team. View Details of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

5. Dunai to Gurja Khani Trek Gurja Khani Trek is recently discovered that lies in the Dhaulagiri region of central-western Nepal. The hidden village, Gurja Khani lies on the lap of Gurja Himal at the height of 2,650 meters from sea level between the south face of Gurja Himal and the Gurja Pass. In Nepali there is an old saying “Tuppi Mathi Thau Chaina, Gurja mathi Gauw Chaina” which literary means ‘there is no place above the cap; there is no village above the Gurja’. Thus it is considered the highest village in the Dhaulagiri Region. This trek offers you to explore the traditional villages, incredible scenery of Mighty Dhaulagiri, Gurja Himal, and Annapurna range. View Details of Gurja Khani Trek

Dolpo is one part of heaven to experience hidden Tibetan culture, tradition, religion, mountaineering and its incredible landscape where very least travelers had reached till date. That is the reason why people visit Dolpo. Major attractions of Dolpo are explain in short below. 

• Pre Buddhist Bon Religion Bon is known for Pre-Buddhist religion. Bon religion is classified into three; prehistoric Bon, Yungdrung Bon and New Bon. The main icon of the Bon is Tonpa Sherap Miwoche. The Bon practices are the key factors that differentiate the religion with Tibetan Buddhism. Circumambulating the shrine anti-clockwise unlike Buddhists undertake the process clockwise. Similarly, chanting mantra of the Bon is “Om Ma Tri Mu Ye Sa Le Du” but the Buddhists chant “Om Mani Padme Hum”. Many of the ancient bon monasteries and pilgrimage sites are located in the far west of Tibet and around Mount Kailash area such as Menri, Yungdrung Ling, Trading, Pelha Puk Monastery, Mount Bonri and Tsedug Monastery. Like for Bon Pilgrimage sites in Nepal, mostly are in Dolpo region of western Nepal. There are number of Monasteries and Chortens (Shrine) exist in Dolpo such as Samling Bon Monastery, Tshowa Bon monastery of Ringmo, Shipchok Gompa, etc.
• Sowa Rigpa - Traditional art of healing by Amchi Tibetan Herbal treatment is popularly known for Sowa Rigpa, the Amchi art of Healing rooted with Tibetan medicine. Tibetan Herbal medicine treatment has existed since the Bonpo civilisation. Dolpa used to be a part of the Bonpo kingdom of Shang Shung where there are more than sixty Amchis. The most experienced Amchis of Dolpo are lineage of Tibetan King Trisong Detsen from 8th century. 
• Holy Cristal Mountain Cristal Mountain is the holiest peak across Dolpo. Its surface is formed with the veins of vivid crystalline material. Every Year during the summer season between July and August, locals from different villages come to make Kora around Crystal Mountain. Local believe that making a Kora around it cleansed their sins. Sage (Drutop) Singhi Yeshe visited Shey thousand years ago and meditated there.
• Precious Shey Gompa Shey Gompa is originally known for Shelri Sumdho Gompa. Its name is came from the holy crystal mountain. The structure of Gompa is simple where old statues of Guru Rinpoche, Vajra Yogini, Dorjee chang, Guru Dragpo, Senge Dongma are preserved well. This 11 century old Shey Gompa is located at the elevation of 4200 meters from the sea level. Peter Mathiessen has spent his almost all winter there during his Dolpo expedition because of the heavy snow fall blocked their way. The landscape of Shey is incredible and many local hermits says that Shey area has great spiritual power to fulfill your all wishes. 
• Phoksundo Lake  Shey Phoksundo Lake, tortoise colored is the deepest lake of Nepal located at the height of 3611 meters. Many geologies say that Phoksundo Lake is formed when a massive landslide came from the surrounding dry Mountains and blocked the flowing water of Phoksundo Khola. The picture square landscape of lake and its surrounding are perfect frame for Photographers. Next to the lake there is a village called Ringmo where the people are engage in the tourism, yak herding and seasonal agriculture. Almost all visitor keep a spare day at Ringmo for acclimatization and to explore around the lake by taking a short walk to the camp on the shores of the beautiful Phoksundo Lake. There are chortens and mani walls at the entrance of the village. Bönpos circumambulate chortens anticlockwise rather than clockwise as done by Buddhists.
• Tibetan ancient villages The Fur-flung villages of Dolpo are beautiful and worth seeing when you are trekking in both upper and lower Dolpo. Upper Mustang was remote like Dolpo until motor road was introduce in 2012 for the first time. Some of the popular villages of Dolpo are Chharka (Tsharka Valley), Mukot, Dho Tarap, Tinje (Panzang Valley), Saldang (Nangkhong Valley), Bhijer and Ringmo. Villages are separated by high passes which require couple of days to reach from one village to another. Every village has its own fascinating culture, tradition and lifestyle. During your visit talk with local and walk within the village where culture is extremely worthwhile observing.
• Shey Phoksundo National Park Shey Phoksundo National Park is a piece of heaven where visitors can explore and experience unforgettable journey trekking through the national park. One of the most pristine tourists destinations of Nepal where you would not want to leave once you reach there. It is known for its spectacular landscape, breathtaking snowcapped mountains, High vantage passes, holy Bon and Buddhist pilgrimage sites, turquoise lake, and isolated human settlements.
• Mountaineering in Dolpo For many of the visitors all over the world think that trekking and planning their trip to Dolpo is hard and more complex to organize. There are very less people who see some interesting climbing opportunities in Dolpo Region. Did you know the easiest 7000 meters summit in Nepal? Putha Hiunchuli (7246m) is the easiest 7000 meters peak which is located in Dolpo Region. There are other peaks which are below 7000 meters such as Mukut Himal (6087m), Norbu Kang (6085m), Mariyong (6528m), Swaska Kang (6405m), Kade Hiuchuli (6627m), Kanjiroba North (6313m) and Kanjiroba South (6883m). Due to the very least visitors there are many peaks which are unnamed and virgin. 

The cost of trekking in Dolpo depend on many aspects like duration, facilities, means of transportation, crew members, number of trekkers in a group, etc. Trekking in Dolpo region are more expensive than other regions of Nepal because 80 percent of the area can be visited only with the camping trek and in addition to that restricted permit is expensive. Check below in the table of cost breakdown for Dolpo treks. 

In Nepal, all camping treks supplies - camping equipment, kitchen implements, food are all carried by pack animals like mules, Yaks, and horses. Even Porters are common in Nepal. All trekkers are accompanied by a guide, a cook, and usually at least one horseman or yak herder. With the surest footing; they lead trekking groups across the passes. The horseman and cook will usually run ahead during a trekking day. They will have prepared a packed lunch for hikers and will go on to the night’s resting place to set up camp. They set up tents, cook dinner, and ready the area for arriving trekkers. When trekkers reach the campsite they are greeted with a hot cup of tea and biscuits in the dining tent. After six hours in the mountains, no drink will ever taste sweeter. For dinner, the cook will usually prepare a buffet of dishes that are as welcome as they are delicious.

Teahouse trekking means staying and eating in local lodges. We stay in single rooms where possible, but often you will have to share. Rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow, blankets. A few have electric lights and all have a spacious dining room-lounge. We eat at teahouses and, although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, the menu is not extensive. They offer a variety of potatoes, rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and seasonal vegetables. Beers and local spirits are often available, but that will be at your own cost. A variety of cereals, bread, and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. There are also snacks available such as basic biscuits, chocolate, and soft drinks and in some areas, you will find fresh fruit in season. It is normal to meet your porter in the teahouse where you will stay overnight. So, pack your necessary things in your own day pack.

Phoksundo Lake trek is the only possible tea house based trek in whole Dolpo region. If you are experienced trekker and strong enough to carry your necessary gears and basic equipment only you can do Lower Dolpo trek where you need to eat and sleep in the available tented tea houses on the trail camped for local traders and travelers. Sometimes you even need to spend overnight in your own tent where you need to cook by yourself.  

Dolpo and Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow behind the Mountains. Generally trekking in Nepal is popular in spring (Mid-March, April & May) and autumn (Mid-September, October, November) season. But trekking to Dolpo in different season has its own beauties. Whenever you are planning your trek in the Himalayas always check weather focus of the places that you are going to visit and take a printout copies with you.

Spring Season in Dolpo Even though spring is a good time to trek in Dolpo but still sometime late snow fall may be problematic. So, planning your trek to Dolpo in mid of April is the perfect time. Even during the month of May is good where greenery start gradually and people return from the cities like Kathmandu, Nepal and Nepalgunj. 

Summer Season in Dolpo Summer is consider as the best and favorite season in the Himalayan region of Nepal. Dolpo is one among them and it falls under the rain shadow area of Nepal where summer is perfect and right time to experience the Dolpo. During that time weather is not really cold neither too hot, suitable for trekking. But the challenge is that flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal may get cancelled due to weather issue in the low land of Nepal. If you are planning your trek during the summer time then we suggest you to keep 1- 2 days extra, in case the flight don’t takeoff as per itinerary date.  

Autumn Season in Dolpo  Autumn season more popular as October season in Nepal. During this time Nepal receive Maximum trekkers and visitors. For Upper Dolpo trek starting your trek from late September is nice as the weather get colder from October and this trek is possible only with proper camping equipment and experienced crew members not like tea houses treks in Everest and Annapurna area. So, the autumn season for trekking in Dolpo is best from Late September to mid-November.   

Winter Season in Dolpo  Winter is quite harsh and snowy where all the high passes of Dolpo are blocked by snow and no one cross them until the mid-spring season. So, planning your trek to Dolpo in the winter isn’t a good idea. By saying that it doesn’t meant it is impossible to do treks in whole Dolpo region winter. Some travelers had made their treks to Phoksundo Lake even in the winter but for that you need well experienced guide and good weather to have a successful trip. Winter last for few months starting from mid-November until mid-late of March. 

• The earlier you visit Dolpo, it will be more rewarding trip. Who knows whether the present tradition, lifestyle, culture and its natural beauties remain same as it or not.
• Trekking in Dolpo isn’t easy as other trekking destinations of Nepal. So, proper clothing and gear are essential. 
• Staying healthy during your trekking days is a key to success your trip. So, take more hot drinks and eat well. 
• Acclimatization is necessary for trekking in Dolpo as you are walking in the high altitude mostly 4000 meters. Always flexible with your itinerary and keep spare for rest. 
• Don’t forget to choose the best time to visit Dolpo as per your interest of field.
• Choose local trekking agency. Locals have the direct link with local people.
• You must have your own travel insurance which cover helicopter rescue because chartering a chopper is the best and quickest way to rescue in the mountain.  
• Don’t set off without your permits. If you are traveling without permits and the checkpoint officer noticed you. Then are force to pay the cost of permits and return to Kathmandu without entering the Dolpo. 
• Take your Passport and copy of your insurance.
• Hire an experienced guide who have good knowledge of Dolpo.
• Don’t forget to tips your crew members because they never ask for it directly. If you don’t have an idea how much to tip. Normally tips are 10 to 15 % of their wages. 

By reading all the above information, you might have known why it is worth visiting Dolpo. All trekking destinations of Nepal are in the Himalayas and sometimes there are ups and downs in your trip. Whatsoever the wonders of Dolpo never cease. The entire region of Dolpo is still remote which lies in the western part of Nepal where still you can witness yak herders, Bon practitioners, barley farmers, using traditional woolen clothes, and congested built houses. Dolpo is one of the few destinations in the world where trekking in remote and opportunities to discover are still possible. Join us!

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Upper Dolpo Trek

• Trekking in Nepal
• Wilderness Trekking

Since the terrain can be hard and the days long, hikers on these treks should be in good physical condition and have some previous mountain walking experience. Steep climbing may be involved, although it is never necessary to use ropes. Treks at this level can he arranged for periods of 16 to 21 days. Typically, a gradual ascent through a green river valley will lead you up to a number of high passes, where you will reach the altitude of 5416m. Often times, you will get a close insight into the Tibetan culture. Participants should expect to trek above 5416m/17872ft.

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• Detail itinerary
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Dolpo Trekking: Unveiling the Enigmatic Realm

Upper Dolpo Trek beckons you to embark on an extraordinary odyssey through the remote and rugged terrains of Upper Dolpo, nestled in the western fringes of Nepal. This captivating expedition traces the ancient footsteps of salt traders, leading you to the breathtaking allure of Shey Phoksundo Lake, guiding your journey across lofty mountain passes, and exposing you to the awe-inspiring grandeur of towering peaks. Enclosed between the formidable Dhaulagiri massif and the Tibetan plateau, this arid expanse cradles a trove of ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture. Amidst this rugged panorama, a rich tapestry of artistic monasteries comes into view, most notably the Shey Gompa, adorned with vibrant prayer flags. Amid the rugged landscapes, the enduring traditional lifestyles of local ethnic communities remain unsullied by modern influences, preserving an authentic essence. This trail emerges as a pinnacle of both beauty and cultural heritage among Nepal’s treks, extending a warm invitation to immerse yourself in the distinctive lifestyle, culture, and panoramic vistas of the Dolpo region.

The journey commences from Juphal , a modest airstrip nestled in the Jumla district, and follows the age-old trade route that binds Dolpo with Tibet. The trek meanders through a symphony of landscapes, from verdant forests to parched deserts, deep canyons, and lofty mountain passes. One of the most captivating facets of the Upper Dolpo Trek is the opportunity to explore the traditional lifestyle and culture of the Dolpo people. These denizens have inhabited the region for centuries, preserving their unique culture and rituals. Rooted in Tibetan heritage, they practice Bon Buddhism, a shamanistic faith predating Tibetan Buddhism.

Noteworthy are their distinct attires, including woolen chubas, adorned with Topi hats and vibrant aprons. Proficient in traditional crafts such as weaving, woodcarving, and metalwork, the Dolpo people exemplify artisanal finesse. The trek’s allure is further accentuated by the Shey Phoksundo National Park, a sanctuary for rare and endangered species like snow leopards, musk deer, and blue sheep. At its heart lies the resplendent Phoksundo Lake, a turquoise gem ensconced amidst towering peaks.

An arduous venture, the Upper Dolpo Trek demands robust physical fitness and prior trekking experience. The optimal period to undertake this journey is from May to October, a window of clear skies and prime trekking conditions. In essence, the Upper Dolpo Trek beckons those seeking a unique and off-the-beaten-path expedition in Nepal. With its awe-inspiring landscapes, cultural heritage, and rare wildlife, this odyssey unveils a realm of unparalleled grandeur.

Trans-Himalayan Journey: Unearthing Upper Dolpo’s Essence

Known as the Trans-Himalayan Trek Nepal , the Upper Dolpo trek unfolds within mid-West Nepal. This itinerary unfurls through the frigid domains of the fabled Shey Gompa Monastery beyond Phoksundo Lake, encompassing one of the closest and most accessible borders with Tibet. While the Lower Dolpo trek may grant access to Phoksundo Lake, the Upper Dolpo trek immerses you in the spiritual core of the Dolpo Region, renowned as the Crystal Monastery, nestled beneath the revered Crystal Mountain. A pilgrimage site for many, the mountain’s circumambulation is believed to liberate from the cycle of life and death.

A tapestry of traditional Tibetan cultures intertwined with snow leopards, blue sheep, and highland grazing yaks awaits in Upper Dolpo. The trail winds through immense Himalayan summits, crossing five imposing passes: Kang La (5,380m), SALDANG La (5,060m), Chharka La (5,015m), Sangda La (5,515m), and lower Sangda La (5,035m).

The Upper Dolpo Circuit to Jomsom Trek itinerary integrates segments of the Great Himalayan Trail, uniting Nepal with the Tibetan border. Geographically within Nepal yet culturally reminiscent of Tibet, this region resonates similarly with the Upper Mustang trek . Initially, the Upper Dolpo trek was accessible to foreign trekkers in 1989, following stringent government control to safeguard the area’s environmental and cultural integrity.

Ancient Buddhist monasteries, alongside pre-Buddhist Bon Po monasteries, dot the Upper Dolpo region, preserving the last vestiges of traditional Tibetan heritage. One such gem is the Shey Gompa, a Buddhist sanctuary at 4,200m within the She Phoksundo rural municipality of Dolpa, Nepal. Named Shey Gompa or Crystal Monastery by Tibetans, this village traces its origins to the 11th century. This monastery serves as the spiritual nucleus of the Upper Dolpo trek, ensconced in a crimson two-story edifice adorned with intricate Buddhist artworks. In 1220 BS, the Kagyu tribe initiated a festival symbolizing triumph over evil spirits, the Rakshas.

A paramount highlight of the Upper Dolpo experience is the captivating Phoksundo Lake, unrivaled on the trek circuit. Plummeting to depths exceeding 1,500 feet, the lake’s cerulean waters are encircled by dense pine forests and the towering magnificence of the Himalayan skyline.

Embarking on the Upper Dolpo Trek , your journey unfurls with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Juphal via Nepalganj. En route, you’re treated to panoramas of picturesque landscapes and vast mountain ranges. Wending through arid expanses and mixed woodlands, the trail escorts you to Ringmo Lake, Say Phoksundo Lake, and indigenous cultures. A spiritual haven named Gombas Monastery graces Crystal Mountain, home to semi-precious gems and historical edifices. As you traverse villages inhabited by devout Buddhists, the symphony of Tibetans conversing in their native tongue pervades the air. The ascent culminates in Musi Gaun, affording a glimpse of the Tibetan border before advancing toward Jomsom through the Sangdala pass (5,111 meters). This marks the inception of the Upper Mustang Trek, the Tilicho Pass Trek, the Dhaulagiri Pass , and the Thapa Peak Climb .

Retreats and Refuges: A Haven for Rest

Accommodations along the Upper Dolpo Trek vary. Chharka Bhot offers only basic tea house rooms, while other locales are exclusively suited for camping, bereft of tea house amenities. However, Dunai Bazaar, Phoksundo Lake, and Jomsom promise cozy lodgings for the Upper Dolpo Odyssey. Nestled in the region’s northeastern confines, Chharka Bhot is a rural village situated along the Tibetan border. It houses the Shree Chharka Bhot Basic School, a government institution facilitating education for approximately 120 children, encompassing those from adjacent hamlets.

Nourishing Sustenance: A Glimpse into Local Gastronomy

Upper Dolpo’s indigenous fare boasts staples like Champa, boiled potatoes, and Su Chya, as well as yak and goat meats. The region’s challenging topography denies expansive arable lands, limiting lucrative crop cultivation at such high altitudes.

Guided Ventures: Expedition with Nepal Wilderness Trekking

Trekking the western expanse of the Dolpo package is seamlessly orchestrated by our adept guides and well-equipped porters. Experience this journey through our comprehensive Nepal wilderness trekking packages, tailored

Trip Highlights

• scenic flight to Juphal via Nepalganj from the capital of Kathmandu
• Challenging Trek through remote highest mountains
• Discover the unique lifestyle and culture of the mountain people
• Legendary Shey Gompa Monastery
• Explore the majestic monasteries as they were built over many centuries.
• Journey through Miraculous and landscape

Detail Itinerary

• Day 01: Pick up at your hotel drive to the airport and Fly to Nepalganj Elevation 150 meters above sea level.
• Day 02: Fly to Juphal 2400m, trek to Dunai (2200m) Trekking hours: Approximately 3-4 hours. 8 kilometers.
• Day 03: Buffer day in case of any delays flying to Juphal
• Day 04: Trek to Shyanta (2520m) Trekking hours: Approximately 5-6 hours. 12-14 kilometers.
• Day 05: Trek to Jharana Hotel (3,110m) Trekking hours: Approximately 6-7 hours. 10-12 kilometers.
• Day 06: Trek to Ringmo Village (3,612m) Trekking hours: Approximately 5-6 hours. Distance: Approximately 8-10 kilometers.
• Day 07: Trek to Forest Camp (Salla Ghari) (3780m) Trekking hours: Approximately 5-6 hours. Trekking distance: Approximately 8-10 kilometers.
• Day 08: Trek to Kang La Base Camp (4,600m) Trekking hours: Approximately 6-7 hours. 10-12 kilometers.
• Day 09: Trek to Shey Gompa (4400m) via Kang La Pass (5360m) Trekking hours: Approximately 7-8 hours. Trekking distance: Approximately 12-14 kilometers.
• Day 10: Rest for acclimatization
• Day 11: Trek to Namgung (4430m) via Sela Pass (5010m) Trekking hours: Approximately 6-7 hours. Trekking distance: Approximately 10-12 kilometers.
• Day 12: Trek to Saldang (3770m) Trekking hours: Approximately 5-6 hours.Trekking distance: Approximately 8-10 kilometers.
• Day 13: Trek to Khoma Gaun (4,100m) Trekking hours: Approximately 6-7 hours. Trekking distance: Approximately 10-12 kilometers.
• Day 14: Trek to Mendo (4,000m) Trekking hours: Approximately 5-6 hours. Trekking distance: Approximately 8-10 kilometers.
• Day 15: Trek to Tinje Village (4,180m) Trekking hours: Approximately 6-7 hours. Trekking distance: Approximately 10-12 kilometers.
• Day 16: Trek to Rapka (4,535m) Trekking hours: Approximately 6-7 hours. Trekking distance: Approximately 8-10 kilometers.
• Day 17: Cross Chharka La (5,015m), trek to Chharka Village (4,110m) Trekking hours: Approximately 7-8 hours. Trekking distance: Approximately 12-14 kilometers.
• Day 18: Exploration day at Chharka village
• Day 19: Trek to Norbulung (4,750m) Trekking hours: Approximately 6-7 hours.Trekking distance: Approximately 10-12 kilometers.
• Day 20: Cross Higher Sangda La (5,185m), trek to Sangda Phedi (5,100m)
• Trekking hours: Approximately 7-8 hours. Trekking distance: Approximately 12-14 kilometers.
• Day 21: Cross Lower Sangda La (5,035m), trek to Sangda Village (3,800m) Trekking hours: Approximately 6-7 hours. Trekking distance: Approximately 10-12 kilometers.
• Day 22: Trek to Pangling (2,900m) Trekking hours: Approximately 6-7 hours. Trekking distance: Approximately 10-12 kilometers.
• Day 23: Trek to Jomsom Trekking hours: Approximately 7-8 hours. Trekking distance: Approximately 12-14 kilometers.
• Day 24: Fly to Pokhara overnight at Pokhara,
• Day 25: Tourist bus to Kathmandu 6-hour drive, drop to your hotel.

Cost Included

• All land transfer and flight tickets, ktm- Juphal, Jomsom- Pokhara.
• Pokhara to ktm by tourist bus.
• National Park permits TIMS permits and special Upper Dolpo permits fees.
• Tent Accommodation and three times meals a day during the trekking.
• Fully escorted trek with fluent English-speaking license holder local Sherpa Guide and necessary porters.
• All programs are according to the itinerary on full board.
• Wages, equipment, insurance, and other facilities to staff.

Cost Excluded

• Hotel in Kathmandu
• Travel Insurance (which is covering helicopter rescue ).
• Medical evacuation in case of emergency.
• Personal expenses.
• All bar bill.
• Items of personal nature, i.e., Soft/hard drinks, tips, etc.

Altitude Chart

Similar packages, churen himal base camp trek, khaptad national park, red panda trail trek, great himalaya trail, limi valley trek, gorilla trek, we are recommended on.

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Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper dolpo trek overview.

Are you a strenuous trekking lover the Upper Dolpo Trek is perfect. If yes, Upper Dolpo trekking is one of the worthy treks in the western part of Nepal. Dolpo trek allows you to trek towards the rugged and remote areas of Nepal.

The infrastructure of that region is underdeveloped and has fewer facilities for lodges and tea houses on the trail. Having said that it is arduous trekking but it is worth it to trek to upper Dolpo .

Trekkers can get to know about the Tibetan culture, by hiking to Shey- Phoksundo, torrent, soothing lakes, picturesque hills, and alluring scenes of mountains.

Trekking to Dolpo provides a lifetime experience without any regret which is surrounded by mountain chains.

Trip Highlights:

• Vigil the hypnotizing view of snow leopards in Shey-Phoksundo National Park.
• Tranquil lake which is crucial with crystal clear water.
• Observing the unique culture of Buddhist people and holy places.
• 800 years early monastery with the amazing view of Himalayas.
• Exploring the settlement of a medieval village at Dho Tarap which is the highest human livelihood in the world.
• Unique trekking experience and inquire about flora and fauna.

Facts of the Upper Dolpo Trek

Daily Stroll: 6,7 hrs.

Trek Starting and Ending Point: Juphal.

Accommodation: Camping/ Guesthouses.

Permits: will be managed by the local agency.

Best time for trek: Sep- Nov and Mar-May.

Transportation: fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Nepalgunj to Juphal flight and start the trek from Juphal.

Short Itinerary

DAY 1: Welcome to Kathmandu

DAY 2:  Explore Kathmandu and prepare for the trek

DAY 3: Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj

DAY 4: Flight from Nepaljung to Juphal and trek to Dunai

DAY 5:  Hike from Dunai to Ankhe

DAY 6:  Hike from Ankhe to Sulighat

DAY 7: Sightseeing from Sulighat to Phoksundo Lake

DAY 8: Explore Shey-Phoksundo Lake

DAY 9: Hike to Phoksundo Khola

DAY 10: Explore Phoksundo Khola to Phoksundo Bhanjyang

DAY 11: Trek to Shey Gompa via Kang-La Pass

DAY 12: Day to rest at Shey Gompa

DAY 13: Shey Gompa to Namuna Gaun trek across Saldang La Pass

DAY 14: Explore from Namuna to Saldang La Pass

DAY 15: Hike from Saldanha to Yangtze Gompa

DAY 16: Trek from Yangtze to Sibu

DAY 17: Trek from Sibu to Jeng- la Phedi

DAY 18: Across Jeng La Pass and trek to Tokyu Goan

DAY 19: Trek from Tokyu Goan to Dho Tarap

DAY 20: Day to rest in Dho Tarap

DAY 21: Explore from Dho Tarap to Tarap Khola

DAY 22: Trek from Tarap khola to Khani Goan

DAY 23: Hike from Khani Goan to Tarakot

DAY 24: Trek from Tarakot to Dunai

DAY 25: Trek from Dunai to Juphal

DAY 26:  Nepalgunj to Kathmandu on flight

DAY 27: Kathmandu (Departure Day)

Upper Dolpo Trek Difficulty

It is better to know about the difficulties before than suffer later. Upper Dolpo is the trekking area that is combined with both hilly and rocky mountains. It is listed as the most difficult trek in Nepal. Trekkers who want to join this upper dolpo trekking must be high-level fit and fine. Anybody with a healthy sound body can take a step to go for Upper Dolpo trekking. Though the sight is mind-bogglingly beautiful it is the least visited trekking of Nepal.

Altitude Sickness

The foremost thing to prepare for is motivating oneself. This trekking takes trekkers at a maximum altitude of 5190m many of the trekkers fell sick due to the high altitude. The higher you go the level of oxygen at ambience keeps on decreasing. You might feel shortness of breath, headache, and dizziness as a symptom of altitude sickness. In this situation, it’s better to take rest until you feel well.

Trails of Upper Dolpo

As we know, Upper Dolpo is a remote area which is hidden behind a snowy mountain. It is located at a higher altitude where there is desert-like topography with arduous trails. The path of the trekking is rough and steady. Trekking to Upper Dolpo is less famous than other classical treks because of its unconstructed strolling trail. The trails are up and down which makes the trekking difficult for any trekker. For novice trekkers it is a challenging trek so you should get prepared and do more exercise before joining this trek.

Financial Management

Cost of the items at higher altitudes cost more than at lower altitudes. In the upper dolpo, there are fewer tea houses and lodges at higher altitudes. If you find tea houses and lodges, the item is worth much more. There are no facilities for Bank and ATM systems. So, it is best to carry enough money which is required while trekking to Upper Dolpo of Nepal.

Network and Wifi service

At Dolpo, only a few of the areas have network services. In some villages, there are emergency satellite telephone services. At Dunai, some of the lodges and teahouses provide good wireless internet service with additional fees charged.

We recommend you purchase an NCELL sim with 4G service with the internet package. The internet package costs less than USD10  but it provides good internet service. You can purchase a SIM card and 4G internet in Kathmandu.

Best Month to trek at Upper Dolpo?

Nepal trekking is best for all seasons. It depends on which type of climate lover you are. Climate and temperature play an indispensable role in making the trek exciting or tedious. As it is in the Himalayas there might be unpredictable snowfall or little rain. For upper dolpo March- May and Sep- Nov are the best months for trekking.

Spring (March-May)

In the early months, the trails may be blocked with snowpack and you might not be able to cross the pass. You can take alternative passes to continue the trekking. From mid-April there will be no snowfall, the weather will be perfect and it will be a perfect and easy trek for experienced and no snow trekking experience trekkers.

Temperatures of the region vary from 9°C to 13°C and -8°C at higher altitudes.

Monsoon (June to Aug)

In this season there is more chance of rainfall and the delay of the flight might be the problem. Flight from Nepalgunj to Jhupal might be canceled due to weather conditions. There might be long rainfall for the first weeks and the trials may be slippery. But after reaching higher places the trails remain dry and no gears are needed while trekking. The weather conditions in the lower part of the region might be affected by rainfall like delay of flight and slipper trails.

The temperature in this season remains ideal. It varies from 5°C to 15°C and in higher altitudes it’s over -5°C.

Autumn ( Sep to Nov)

Only the problem in this season is unpredictable snowfall. This season is one of the best seasons for trekking to Upper Dolpo. Even better is Sep and Nov, the temperature remains gratifying and the sky remains blues room. In November half there is the beginning of winter so snowfall may occur and it might block the trail.

Temperatures vary from 4°C to -12°C in higher parts and about 18°C to 12°C as autumn slightly changes to winter in lower parts.

Winter (Dec to Feb)

Trekking in winter at Upper Dolpo is a bad choice. Due to heavy snowfalls and exceedingly cold temperatures. It is harder for the normal trekker because the temperature reaches minus degrees and extreme snowfall blocks the trail.

Temperature will be around -12°C at higher altitudes which is extremely cold. We do not recommend you book or make a plan to go trekking in Upper Dolpo in the winter season.  Though you want to join you should go with professional trekkers with experience of snow conditions.

Food and Drinking water while trekking to Upper Dolpo

Only up to Shey-Poksundo, there is a facility of tea houses and lodges. Upper Dolpo is a camping trek so tea houses and lodges are not easily available. Though the food is available in remote areas, it is 4 times more expensive than in normal places. Trekkers who have previous experience know the rules that, the more you go at higher altitude, the more the price of the food costs.

Trekkers should manage their food by themself because there are no places to buy food. Managing the shelter and carrying food for upcoming days is the foremost thing to be done by trekkers while heading trekking to Upper Dolpo.

Drinking Water

Water in Upper Dolpo is easily available but it is not safe to drink directly. Many people get sick with diarrhea, common cold, and vomiting due to polluted water during the rainy season. Sealed water bottles are available in some places in the lower part of the Dolpo. But the higher you reach higher elevation there are no facilities for buying sealed water bottles.

During the trek, there might be problems finding the local taps so it’s better to carry an extra bottle to fill the water and drink using purification tablets or chlorine drops.

Solo or Guided

Explaining the main point, Upper Dolpo is a restricted area where you cannot trek there alone. You cannot apply for the permits of Upper Dolpo yourself. You should apply for permits with the help of a local agency so that they will allow their staff to trek with you. Trekking to Upper Dolpo is not for a solo trekker. It should be done with a group of people because it is a restricted and also camping trek.

The journey to Upper Dolpo is not for every inexperienced trekker. Difficult trails and the few accommodations make the trekking more challenging. It will be impossible to carry food and manage shelter alone. So, this trek should be performed with one Nepali guide.

Permits and Cost for Upper Dolpo Trek?

In Nepal trekking there are different trekking locations with restrictions to trek alone. However, it does not mean you can’t join the trek. Permits are required to trek in restricted areas. The local agency will apply for the permits and you can start your trek in the restricted area with the agency staff.

In Upper Dolpo, it costs USD 500 individually for 10 days. For additional days it costs USD 50 per person per day. USD 40 for entry permits. Upper Dolpo trek permits cannot be issued for less than 10 days.

Upper Dolpo Trek Itinerary

Day 1: welcome to kathmandu.

Walking Hours: 30 Minutes Driving

Meals Included: Welcome Dinner

Accommodation: 3 Star Category Hotel

Max. Altitude: 1345M

After landing at TIA, our staff from Mission Himalaya Treks will be there at the airport displaying the name board. After that our representative will pick you up and you will be transferred to a hotel. On this day you can go for a short walk around the hotel sides or do some rest. You will get a chance to enjoy the nepali culture at a traditional nepalese restaurant in the evening. You will stay in the same hotel where our staff have dropped you before.

Day 2: Explore Kathmandu and prepare for trek

Walking Hours: 6 Hour Tour

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our morning will start with  breakfast. After having breakfast we will start our short sightseeing tour to our World Heritage Site of Nepal. Hindu temple Pashupati Nath which is the temple of lord Shiva. World’s largest stupa Boudha Nath which indicates buddhist temple. Durbar Square of Kathmandu where ancient statues can be seen and which was ruled by king Medieval. Buddist temple Swayambu Nath which is also called as a monkey temple from where you can see the whole Kathmandu Valley.

You will return back to the hotel in the evening. After returning back from sightseeing you will get time to purchase some gears for trekking to Upper Dolpo on rent.

Day 3: Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj

Walking Hours: 1 Hour Flight

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Lodge

Max. Altitude: 1455M

Starting the day with breakfast, our team heads from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj on a flight. The flight offers a scenic view of tall mountains and hills. After landing you will see the amazing view of the surrounding from the airport of Nepalgunj, you will enjoy the sunny environment of Nepalgunj.

After landing our team will head towards the hotel and rest and enjoy the whole day at Nepalgunj. You can go for a short visit to the hamlet of Nepalgunj. Also, you can enjoy the city area also you can visit Muslim bazaars and mini zoos. Later on, you will come back to the hotel and pack for tomorrow’s flight and trek.

Day 4: Flight from Nepaljung to Juphal and trek to Dunai

Walking Hours: 45 Minutes Flight And 2 To 3 Hours Trekking

Accommodation: Tented Camp

Max. Altitude: 2850M/9348FT

Our day starts with breakfast at the hotel and then we will head toward the Nepalgunj airport to take a flight to Juphal, flying over the marvelous hills. After landing at Juphal we will start our trek which takes about 3hours to reach Dunai.

Adventure trek through plains, fast-flowing rivers, and terraced fields. In the evening you will view the glimpses of Dunai hamlet.

Day 5: Hike from Dunai to Ankhe

Walking Hours: 6 To 7 Hour Trekking

Max. Altitude: 2920M

As we head out for the trek, we will go across the suspension bridge over the briskly flowing Thuli Bheri river. Our plan for today is to reach Ankhe hamlet. Trail passes through hanging bridges, relaxing with the sound of flowing rivers and dense forest.

As you reach phoksundo valley we will take some rest there and start to stroll through dense forest towards Ankhe. After reaching there you will take some rest and if you want you can go for a short stroll to Ankhe village.

Day 6: Hike from Ankhe to Sulighat

Walking Hours: 5 To 6 Hour Trekking

Max. Altitude: 2810M

Our hike starts from Ankhe and ends at Sulighat. Today’s trek is a little tough for beginners. The trail passes through rocky up and down hills which are hard and  steepy so it is a challenging trek.

Though it is quite hard, you can go slowly and carefully to complete today’s trek. The beautiful eye-catching view of the snow-capped mountain makes the trek more exciting. After reaching Sulighat you will stay a night there.

Day 7: Sightseeing from Sulighat to Phoksundo lake

Walking Hours: 4 To 5 Hour Trekking

Max. Altitude: 3617M

Beginning the morning with breakfast, we start our trekking from Sulighat to Phoksundo lake.Strolling toward the junction of two rivers Phoksundo and Pungmo river we will cross the bridge. Continuing the trek through cedar forest we will head towards Palam hamlet.

Strolling through the forest and steep rocky trails, we will ascend to observe an eye-blessing view of Phoksundo lake and waterfall. Leading the way through pine groves and walnuts we’ll reach Ringmo village which is a Tibetian settlement area. After walking for 4-5 hr enjoying the trail we reach Phoksundo Lake. This day we will stay there camping.

Day 8: Explore Shey-Phoksundo lake

Walking Hours: 4 To 5 Hours Trekking

Getting up in the morning, having self made breakfast and enjoying the day exploring Phoksundo lake. The view of the Phoksundo lake seems so amazing. Taking a bath at turquoise lake is strictly prohibited.

As we know Ringmo is the place of Tibiten buddhist people, you can learn the art, culture and tradition of Buddhist people. There is beautiful Tshowa Buddist monastery at the shore of Phoksundo. After blessing the eyes with the amazing view of lake and beautiful monastery we’ll be back to Ringmo hamlet and stay there at night.

Day 9: Hike to Phoksundo Khola

Walking Hours: 4 Hours Hiking

Beginning the day with breakfast we will proceed towards our destination Phoksundo khola.Trials from Ringmo  to Phoksundo khola are narrow, steep and rocky which is slightly dangerous and challenging for the new trekkers.

Region of Phoksundo khola is remote and far away from development. Arriving at Phoksundo Khola we will cross the floodplain and search for camping areas and spend overnight in a camp.

Day 10: Explore Phoksundo Khola to Phoksundo Bhanjyang

Max. Altitude: 3615M

On this day we will trek from Phoksundo Khola to Phoksundo Bhanjyang. Strolling through an easy flat trail we can see the mesmerizing view of a snow-capped mountain. Chamlang Range and other mountains.

After passing the flat trail you will arrive at a challenging steepy trail. As you ascend the trail you will see the mind-boggling view of Kang-La Pass.  Trekking for 6-7 hr we’ll reach Phoksundo Bhanjyang and spend the night there camping.

Day 11: Trek to Shey Gompa via Kang-La Pass

Max. Altitude: 5370M

Breakfast in the morning, our team will proceed the way from Kang-La Pass to Shey Gompa. In the trail, the large valley will catch your eyes with magical scenarios though the trail is not so good. The amazing view of snow-capped mountain peaks grants you feel like paradise.

Trek to Shey Gompa to Kang-La Pass takes around 6-7 hours of stroll which is not an easy walk. After reaching Shey Gompa we will cross the mud caves and up and down the trail we will make a tent and stay there overnight.

Day 12: Day to rest at Shey Gompa

Today is the day to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Shey Gompa area. The day will be spend exploring the village of Shey Gompa and buddist monasteries. Also there is Shey-Pokshundo National Park which is the key attraction to this remote region.

Shey Gompa lies in between Kanja Nala and Yeju Nala which looks stunning. You can visit the hamlet and also monasteries of Gompa where you can see ancient statues, prayer walls, buddist arts  and buddist culture which was built in the 11th century.

Day 13: Shey Gompa to Namuna Gaun trek across Saldang La Pass

Walking Hours: 6 To 7 Hours Trekking

Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

Max. Altitude: 5210M

On this day we will start our morning with early breakfast and start our long trek to Namuna Gaun. Strolling through the steepy up and down trail, you should pass through Saldang La Pass from Shey Gompa to reach Namuna Gaun.

Trail of today’s trek is rocky and steepy though we will enjoy the yaks pasture and beautiful hills far away. After spending some time in Saldang La Pass we will go downward to reach our destination Namuna Gaun. We will take a short walk to the famous  Namgung monastery. Then we will spend the night in a tent.

Day 14: Explore from Namuna to Saldang La Pass

Walking Hours: 5 To 6 Hours Trekking

Max. Altitude: 3625M

Day starts with breakfast and starts to walk through a dusty trail. Following the trails to Saldang La Pass with picturesque views we reach there after walking about 5,6 hours. Saldang is the famous hamlet of Dolpo where about 600 people are settled as a community.

You will see the beautiful hamlet and cultivated green lands in Saldang. A night will be spent there in the hamlet of Saldang

Day 15: Hike from Saldanha to Yangtze Gompa

Max. Altitude: 4970M

Today’s hike will be a memorable hike because we are hiking to the 1000 yr old Bonpo monastery. Crossing the river and strolling through the barren trails you will reach the beautiful Yangtze Gompa.

The night will be spent camping at Yangtze Gompa.

Day 16: Trek from Yangtze to Sibu

Breakfast in the morning and we will trek back to Saldang from Yangtze Gompa. After returning we will head towards Sibu. Strolling through the side of the river and then crossing the terraced fields then we will reach Namdo hamlet to have dinner and take some rest.

Continuing the trek to Sibu and arriving there after 5 hours we will rest and enjoy the rest of the time. We will stay overnight camping.

Day 17: Trek from Sibu to Jeng- la Phedi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner

Max. Altitude: 4910M

Having breakfast in the morning, trekkers start to hike from Sibu. Following the trails through normal trails and rivers to get to the side of the valley.  Trekkers trek for 5-6 hr to arrive at Jeng-la Phedi.

Near the Jeng La Phedi the trails are a little slippery and rocky grassland. Trekkers will stay camping at Jeng-La Phedi overnight.

Day 18: Across Jeng La Pass and trek to Tokyu Goan

Max. Altitude: 5100M

Starting the day with breakfast, our trekking destination to Tokyu Goan will start. After strolling for 3hr  we will cross Jeng La Pass. Continuing the trek viewing Mt. Dhaulagiri and other mountains covered with snow will amaze you.

Trekkers will stroll downhill to Tarap valley and then go uphill to the green valley of Tarap area. After walking for some minutes you will find monasteries, cultivated fields, hamlets, chorten, and many more. There is no accommodation facilities so we should stay camping at Tokyu.

Day 19: Trek from Tokyu Goan to Dho Tarap

Max. Altitude: 4010M

Trekkers will start their trek to Dho Tarap after having breakfast. Trekking will be on an easier trail where thick green bushes can be seen on the other side of the river. Though the trail is easy, the way is a little bit risky so you have to be careful.

In Dolpo, there is a famous French school located outside Dho Tarap hamlet. Dolopo is the settlement of the Tibentan people so you can find the Tibetan hamlet and Magar hamlet. After trekking for about 5 hours we will reach our destination place Dho Tarap and stay camping there overnight.

Day 20: Day to rest in Dho Tarap

Walking Hours: Stroll Around

Today you will explore and enjoy the view of Dho Tarap. Field visits at Dho Tarap make the day enjoyable and memorable. You can find green farms with unique crops.  They protect the crops from animals and  wind by building zig-zag walls.

Trekkers can also get to know the dress,  tradition and culture of magar and buddhist people. Actually today’s day is to rest and acclimatize at high altitude and to be safe from altitude sickness. You will spend the night at a tea house or camping.

Day 21: Explore from Dho Tarap to Tarap khola

Max. Altitude: 3810M

This day’s trek is a long and tough day for trekkers. Trekkers have to walk for about 6-7 hour through desert-like landscapes, Juniper bushes and through the trail of wild roses crossing them and entering the valley of the amazing Himalayan above the beautiful treeline.

Trekking for about 6 hr you will arrive at Kamakharkha where you can find the joint of Tarap Chu and Lang Khola. Also you can observe the herds of blue sheep. After arriving at Kamakharkha you will enjoy the environment and spend the night over there camping.

Day 22: Trek from Tarap khola to Khani Goan

Max. Altitude: 3156M

Starting the day with breakfast we will proceed for our destination to Khani Goan. Today’s trek will be little adventures and more exciting than you expect. Trekkers will stroll through the staircase and bridges made by woods. The bridges are damaged but trekkers should cross the bridges above the icy stream on the way to Khani Khola.

Trekkers will stroll about 4-5 hr to reach Khani Goan from Tarap Khola. The trails are damaged but exciting. Arriving at Khani Goan trekkers will spend their night camping.

Day 23: Hike from Khani Goan to Tarakot

Max. Altitude: 2550M

In today’s trek  you can gaze at the amazing mind-boggling view of Himalaya in the trail. After having breakfast we will pack our bags and head for our destination to Tarakot. Following the trail of Pine trees, walnuts, apple trees and junipers of Lalberi hamlet. Crossing the old fortress town you can get to see the mesmerizing view of snow-capped mountains. Ater trekking for about 4-5 hours you’ll reach Tarakot and spend the night camping there.

Day 24: Trek from Tarakot to Dunai

Max. Altitude: 2150M

Breakfast in the morning and get ready to trek from Tarakot to Dunai. The trek will be so exciting with the view of briskly flowing Bheri river and pine groves in the trail. You can capture some pictures of gorgeous views of paradise.

After walking for more than 5hr trekkers will reach Dunai. Enjoy the rest of the day exploring and spent the night there at Dunai.

Day 25: Nepalgunj to Kathmandu on flight

Accommodation: 3 Star Standard Hotel

After having breakfast we will pack our bags and fly back to Kathmandu from Nepalgunj. The flight offers a scenic view of  Mt Dhaulagiri, other tall mountains and hills. After landing you will be transferred to a hotel.

Remaining time you can take a short walk to explore a nearby hotel and if you have brought gears in rent it’s time to return back. In the evening farewell dinner at Nepalese restaurant and night at the hotel.

Day 26: Departure Day

Accommodation: None

Here comes the end of the 27 days trekking to the Upper Dolpo trek of Nepal. If you have time then you can go shopping or taste some street foods at a nearby hotel. Our Mission Himalayan Trek and Expedition’s member will come to pick you up from the hotel 3hr before your flight and drop you at TIA.

If you have any questions or confusion about this 27 days Upper Dolpo Trekking then feel free to ask, we will respond within an hour

Upper Dolpo Trek Cost

• International airport picks up and drops off during your flight.
• Kathmandu Hotel before and after trekking according to the itinerary (deluxe room with air-conditioned and Wi-Fi, Breakfast included.
• Domestic airport transfer by private car and flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Return from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu.
• Clean and beautiful accommodation during trekking in twin sharing basis on local lodges, Guesthouses.
• Meals on full board during this trek (breakfast Lunch and dinner) with complimentary fresh fruit at dinner time according to availability and altitude.
• Highly Mission Himalaya Treks Experienced guide who was licenses and training from Nepal government with first aid training (salary, Food, Transportation, Accommodation, Insurance of guide included).
• A very strong porter shared in two paying guests (salary, Food, Transportation, Accommodation, and Insurance of Porter included).
• All necessary local permits during trekking, Dolpo Restricted area trekking permits, TIMS permits are included).
• Four seasonal sleeping bag, down jackets, can be provided by Mission Himalaya Treks and Expeditions if the trekkers do not have their own but after complete trek has to be returned to our agency.
• Farewell dinner in Nepali typical traditional restaurant after complete your trekking.
• All necessary company service charges, Government VAT, and taxes.
• First- Aid medicines with your trekking leader.
• Certificate of your trekking after finish your trip signed my Mission Himalaya Treks and Expeditions Owner and your trekking Guide.
• Personal expenses like telephone calls, Hot Shower during your trekking, Battery Charge, Hot and cold drinks, Bottle and boiled water, Laundry, Shopping, Snacks, and International Telephone calls Etc.
• International flight costs from your Country to Nepal and from Nepal to your country.
• Kathmandu city Lunch and dinner.
• Your own all trekking Gear and other personal clothing.
• Tips for your trekking helper and guide (expected according to our culture).
• Extra cost caused by flight delays, Natural disaster, Weather, Landslide, Change your itinerary by your cause, by Nepal Government policy change, or strikes by political parties. Which is not mission Himalaya Treks and Expeditions Control.
• Extra Night accommodation in Kathmandu rather than an above-mentioned itinerary.
• Cost caused by the early return from the trekking.
• Nepal Visa cost charge by Immigration of Nepal.
• Cost not mentioned in the above itinerary includes section.

Upper Dolpo Trek Support

Accommodation during the upper dolpo trekking.

After strolling for more than 5-6 hr everyone wants to relax at a luxury mattress. Most challenging trek of Nepal, Upper Dolpo is at the remote area where there is least facilities of guest houses and tea-houses. But in this current year there are a lot of changes in the Dolpo area. Basic facilities of accommodation are increased hence available at Dolpo region up to Shey-Phoksundo.

Upper Dolpo Nepal trek is a camping trek. Trekking at higher altitudes makes the trek more costly. As we all know Upper Dolpo lies at 5090m altitude so, this trek is one of the most expensive treks among all Nepal trekking.

Available tea houses and lodges are expensive because of altitude and also limited accommodation facilities due to remoteness. It might be easy for the group of 6-7 people while one duo bed costs US$6- US$10.

Accommodation facilities are not available at the upper part. It is a camping trek where a group of people are needed. Food and shelter should be managed by yourself. If you trek with a trekking agency you will be trouble-free because everything will be managed by the agency.

Upper Dolpo Trek FAQ'S

The upper Dolpo trek is one of the most difficult hikes among all the trekking in Nepal. Due to the remote and fewer facilities, most people avoid Upper Dolpo Trek but the point is though it is a challenging trek you will never regret it grants lifetime memories.

Dolpo trekking starts by taking a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. During a flight, you will enjoy the view of dazzling mountains, green hills, and marvelous scenarios. Next day you will fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal and walk 2-3hr to Dunai. The next day your trek will start for 24 days. On the trail from Dunai to back to Juphal you will see the quaint hills, soothing lakes, fast-flowing rivers, a glimpse of breathtaking views of mountains, and waterfalls, and explore the lifestyle of Tibetan culture people of Upper Dolpo region.

Upper Dolpo trekking is one of the least visited but famous trekking locations in Nepal. An eye-catching view of the paradise and a stroll towards Upper Dolpo will grant you an amazing lifetime experience.

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Dolpo: The way trekking in Nepal used to be

In 2023, we're offering a dedicated trek through the remote Himalayan region of Upper Dolpo . We wanted to find out more about why someone would want to trek to Dolpo, so we talked to one of our most experienced Himalayan trekking guides, Garry Weare , who’ll be leading the trek. Garry led his first Himalayan trek in 1973, and he’s been returning yearly ever since. Garry wrote all editions of the Lonely Planet guide Trekking in the Indian Himalaya as well as his acclaimed Long Walk in the Himalaya , so he clearly knows his stuff. He’s been associated with World Expeditions as a former director, guide, and Himalayan consultant since 1977. He also helped to establish the Australian Himalayan Foundation.

Why is a trek to Upper Dolpo so special?

It’s a Trans Himalaya region. That is to say, it is north of the main Himalayan divide. It is a wild and rugged region that sustains remote villages and settlements in the depths of the valley located beneath soaring mountain ranges that stretch to the borderlands of Tibet. 

The area was made known by Peter Matthiessen in his classic book The Snow Leopard about his 1973 journey to Dolpo with biologist George Schaller and Eric Valli’s evocative film Himalaya .

For me, Dolpo’s particular appeal is that it is culturally and geographically similar to Ladakh (in northern India), where I have trekked regularly since 1976, particularly its historical ties with Tibet.

How do you get to get to Dolpo?

It takes two flights to get into Dolpo. You fly from Kathmandu to Nepalganj (on the Indian/Nepal border) and to the airstrip at Juphal the following day. An hour later, you’re on the trail.

How many people visit Dolpo each year?

It’s remote and only visited by a handful of trekkers each year, which so many trekkers returning to the Himalaya appreciate. As I noted, it takes two flights to get there from Kathmandu, and there are currently no direct road links to Dolpo.

You’ve been trekking in the Himalaya since the early 1970s; you must’ve seen quite a few changes over the years?

Obviously, road developments, but that has yet to deter coming up with more inventive itineraries over remoter passes and previously untrekked valleys. Rest assured, there is still huge potential for getting off the beaten track on exploratory treks .

It is also good to note that over the years, there has been a noticeable increase in environmental awareness—that the Himalaya is not just some vast adventure playground. Then there is the vexing question of age. In the 1970s, anyone over 50 signing up for a trek was considered a novelty. Nowadays, it is very common to have at least a couple of trekkers in their 70s, including the more challenging treks.

The change I feel least comfortable with is the trend to try to fit itineraries into the least possible time. Well into the 1980s, I would include at least a few rest days. While I appreciate that people have less free time at their disposal, nowadays, I feel a little concerned that there are not enough contingency days to allow time to rest, savour, explore and allow for inclement weather that may disrupt a trek.

What first took you to Dolpo?

A few years ago, my long-time friend and associate, Dr. Rodney Jackson, invited my wife and me to join him as he planned to visit Dolpo. In the early 1980s, Rodney did ground-breaking research on snow leopards, radio-tracking them for four years. The effort was featured on the cover of National Geographic magazine in June 1986.

Rodney heads the Snow Leopard Conservancy in America and is recognised as the world’s leading authority on snow leopards. Rodney invited us to join him as he planned to return to Dolpo—just one last time. Then COVID hit, so everything was put on hold. We finally met up and went to Dolpo in May 2022.

Dolpo is something special. I wish I’d been there ten years ago.

Tell us about Crystal Mountain

The mountain has a deep spiritual significance to the people—rather like Kailash in Tibet. Pilgrims encircle Crystal Mountain, but not in the numbers, you’d see for Kailash. The trails are well defined, although kora (the pilgrims’ circuit around Crystal Mountain) is more challenging.

What is the main religion in Dolpo?

The more I have studied Tibetan Buddhism, the more I am perplexed. Dolpo is steeped in Bon and Tibetan Buddhist traditions, with Bon founded in a region of western Tibet close to Dolpo. For further insights, I suggest you join a trek to Dolpo , where the mixture of exquisite Bon and Buddhist monasteries will capture your interest.

How long has World Expeditions been operating treks to Dolpo?

We ran our first treks to Dolpo in the early 1990s, just after it first opened. In 2023, it will be the first time in many, many years World Expeditions has offered a dedicated trip to Dolpo, so it’s very exciting for me to be heading back. The company has been offering treks to Dolpo through their Great Himalaya Trail series of treks since 2010.

How hard is the trekking in Dolpo?

The trek is moderate to challenging, and it includes crossing two 5,000-metre passes, including the Ngadra La at 5,375 metres. You’ve got to be pretty keen to want to go to Dolpo. Trekkers who’ve been to Ladakh will be interested—a similar culture and location. It’s a trek for people who’ve trekked elsewhere in the Himalaya. It’s not a trek for first timers.

Preparation advice?

I recommend people get themselves as fit as they can before departure. It’s not a challenging trip. It’s more moderate to challenging. But still, being fit will ensure they get as much as possible out of the trekking experience.

They also need to make sure they’re positive. It’s a bit of a trite comment, but so important. I was really lucky with my clients on this last trip (Mustang to Nar Phu via the Teri La). Whatever was thrown at them, they were asking for more.

Is there much interaction with the locals?

Apart from the World Expeditions local Nepalese leader, we engage a local guide from Dolpo who can arrange any number of doors for interaction when we’re there. We won’t be staying in lodges—we will be camping, so there’ll be plenty of time to visit the villages and settlements. The children, of course, always come and check us out as soon as they see us.

What should trekkers expect from a trek to Dolpo?

A combination of an exhilarating adventure; an appreciation of the deep-hearted Buddhist and Bon cultures; and sheer inspiration that come from trekking across rugged mountain ranges that extend to the borderlands of Tibet—and will they see a snow leopard? Not a chance! 

Famous Last Words?

I’m 75 now. And I’ve got a limited number of years I can continue to trek, especially at altitude. So, I’m picking and choosing my trips. And Dolpo is an area I’d love to return to. Dolpo is something special. I wish I’d been there ten years ago.

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Comments ( 5 )

Garry and I undertook this trek in May and it was both fascinating and spectacular. The big surprise were the magnificent pristine forests we walked through. The ancient Bon Gompas were incredibly interesting to see. I’ve trekked to many places in the Himalaya and Dolpo was one of the best. Remote, relatively untouched and authentic.

Hi, ( just a question, thanks) I was looking at a trip to Dolpo before Covid. I’m an experienced Himalayan trekker. Is Gary leading a trip next year? If so, could you please send me the details. Thanks Mike Wiles

Hi Mike - he sure is, you'll find the details here: https://worldexpeditions.com/Nepal/Trekking-Walking/Dolpo-Crystal-Mountain-with-Garry-Weare

What is the cost? No mention Thanks Nina

Hi Nina - for your local pricing please visit this page: https://worldexpeditions.com/Nepal-Regions/Dolpo

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Dolpo Mugu Trek

Dolpo Mugu trek is one of the most adventure treks in Nepal, this trek challenging and enthralling which stretches through remote corner of North Western Nepal. This ultimate trekking starts from Dolpo to Mugu thorugh the Upper Dolpo and Upper Mugu. The route leads through the spectacular mountain scenery of Kanjiruwa massif and northern border peaks. This is an extremely adventure trip which stretches across the half dozens of 5000m+ passes. Besides the mountain glory and natural immersion, it also offers the cultural immersion. The culture of Mugum ethnic people, Dolpo ethnic people, the ancient monasteries and remote villages are another rewards of this trek.

Dolpo Mugu trekking, start from Juphal and run past the Phoksundo Lake for fabled Crystal Monastery Shey. In Bhijer we branch off from the main route and wander very lonely roads over high passes and threw deep gorges by Mugu. The few villages here are considered the most remote throughout. Our trekking brings us to the biggest lake of Nepal, the Rara Lake National Park. Dolpo to Rara traverse trek connects two of the most beautiful high altitude lakes in Nepal. Starting in the barren yet stunningly beautiful landscape of Dolpo, and ending in the equally beautiful Mugu district.

Dolpo Mugu trek route is a three weeks trek, and it pass through the remote beautiful villages of Dolpo and Mugu. The trail come across six high passes along the high, steep, narrow and rocky, of the beaten tracks. From Juphal we pass through amazing waterfalls (Phoksundo Water falls) and stunning Phoksumdo Lake. Passing though Phoksundo lake crossing the notorious Kang La pass(5360m) leads to revered and sacred place Shey Gompa. From Shey Gomp our route continues via Samling Monastery to Bhijer and Pho. Beyond Pho village we immerse in wilderness for a week, and come across through three high passes, Nyimagyalzen La (5567m), Yala Pass (5414m) and Chyargo La(5150m) to Shailenchaur Kharka. This is an supposedly an old smugglers route, this is also one of the variants of the Great Himalaya Trail; only few trekkers rarely treks this way. From Shilenchaur we detour to Mugu village and following the Mugu Karnali river, trek end at Rara Lake/Talcha.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1: arrival in kathmandu and transfer to hotel day 2: kathmandu to nepalgunj flight 1 hour (afternoon) day 3: dunai to chhepka(2850m) 6 hours day 4: chhepka to sumduwa(3885m) 5-6 hours day 5: sumduwa to phoksumdo lake (3600m) 4-5 hours day 6: acclimatization/rest day at phoksumdo lake. day 7: phoksundo lake to north bank(3700m) 4-5 hours day 8: north bank to kangla basecamp (4600m) 5-6 hours day 9: kangla basecamp to shey gumba (4370m) 6-7 hours via kang la pass (5350m) day 10: rest day at shey gompa day 11: shey gompa to tora/ samling gompa (4120) 6-7 hours day 12: tora/ samling gompa to bhijer (3850m) 3 hours day 13: bhijer to tora khola (3400m) crossing yambur la (4800m) 6-7 hours day 14: tora khola to pho (4020m) 3-4 hours day 15: pho to daldung khor(4700m) cross nyingma gyalzen la (5563m) 8-9 hours day 16: daldung khor to swaksa khola/pung kharka (4500m) 3-4 hours day 17: pung kharka to marjung khola or the chyandi khola (4800m) crossing cross the yala la (5414m) 7-8 hours. day 18: chyandi khola to takla khola (3750m) 7-8 hours day 19: takla khola to thajuchaur (4000m) crossing the chyargo la (5100m) 7-8 hours day 20: thajuchaur to shilenchaur kharka (2945m) 5-6 hours day 21: sparse day- it can be used in-case of difficulty or detour to mugu village day 22: shilenchaur kharkatrek to pulu or riusa (2250m) 7-8 hours. day 23: pulu to kumpha (2010m) 7-8 hours. day 24: kumpha to talcha airport (2750m) 7 hours. day 25: fly from talcha to nepalgunj and kathmandu. day 26: free day in kathmandu which can also be used as contingency. day 27: departure day, detail itinerary, arrival in kathmandu and transfer to hotel.

Our representative will pick up you from Tribhuvan international airport to hotel.

Kathmandu to Nepalgunj flight 1 hour (Afternoon)

The morning is free to relax or for sightseeing and shopping for any extra gear needed for the trek. In the afternoon we take a short flight from Kathmandu to the Indian-Nepal border town of Nepalgunj in the lowland Terrai region. The climate here is sub-tropical and we will be relieved to reach the relative cool of our guesthouse. We stay overnight in Nepalgunj.

Dunai to Chhepka(2850m) 6 hours

From Dunai, we follow again Thuli Bheri down ward till Suligad, from here we follow Suligad River which is flows down from Phoksumdo Lake through a steep and highly vegetated valley. The trail undulates, sometimes beside and sometimes high above the tumbling white-water river. There are scattered villages along the route including the deserted crude stone houses and at Kageni we take our lunch. Many of these villages are only occupied during the winter months when the communities of Upper Dolpo bring their animals down from the high pastures and at the time of our trek they can be almost hidden in an overgrowth of tall grasses. After lunch we cross the Anke Khola and it can be quite hot as we make our way up the river to our campsite at Chepka (2850m).

Chhepka to Sumduwa(3885m) 5-6 hours

We cross and re-cross the river several times as we make our way up the narrow gorge, ascending the undulating trail through forests of bamboo, and conifer and lush vegetation of Shey Phoksundo National park. At one point the trail climbs steadily for an hour or more to bring us out of the forest and into flower-strewn meadows. Eventually the valley opens up a little and the going becomes easier until we reach a bridge leading to several houses which make up the village of Renje and we stop here for lunch. Beyond here the valley narrows once more and the trail continues to

Sumduwa to Phoksumdo Lake (3600m) 4-5 hours

From Samduwa we climb upwards, the river is known as the Phoksumdo Khola and runs crystal clear from the lake. We pass Palam, another deserted winter village and climb up to a ridge which separates the open fields of Ringmo from the narrow valley below. A roaring waterfall, one of the highest in Nepal, lies below us and we get our first glimpse of Phoksumdo Lake. Descending steeply through the forest we then climb steadily to reach the charming Dolpo-pa settlement of Ringmo with its collection of flat roofed stone houses, stuccoes chortens and long walls of prayer-carved mani stones. We pass through Rigmo village and set up camp at the bank of Phoksundo lake.

Acclimatization/rest day at Phoksumdo Lake.

We start our trek to Shey Gompa in Inner Dolpo with a spectacular trail around the western end of the lake. The precarious path is chiseled from the steep rock walls and in places is supported on wooden trestles woven with saplings and covered with rocks. The sparkling pure turquoise waters of the lake lie directly below and it is wise to proceed with full attention to your footing. This trail was dramatically featured in Eric Valli's brilliant film 'Himalaya" about the life of the people of Dolpo who bring their yaks over difficult passes bearing salt from Tibet to trade for vital grain in the south. After this high traverse, the trail climbs to a ridge giving spectacular views over the lake, the dark green forest, and the bright fields of Ringmo with the snow peak of Kang Norbu to the south. A cairn and prayer flags mark our highpoint on the ridgeat a little above 4000 metres, beyond which we make a gradual descent to the lake's northern shore where we take lunch.

Phoksundo Lake to North Bank(3700m) 4-5 hours

North bank to kangla basecamp (4600m) 5-6 hours.

From the north bank we follow the plain river bank and pine forest at foothill of Mt. Kanjiruwa.Soon afte The Phoksumdo Valley now becomes quite narrow with high rock walls on both sides. We are forced to cross several tributaries and some may have to be waded. After 20 or 30 minutes we leave the main valley and head north again entering a narrow gorge. We have a long climb, often with no trace of any trail as we progress up the steep sided valley, passing occasional grazing areas and crossing several side streams. We are following in Peter Mathiesson's footsteps here and we camp at the spot he named 'Snowfields Camp' in his book.

Kangla Basecamp to Shey Gumba (4370m) 6-7 hours via Kang La pass (5350m)

It will take 2 to 3 hours from our camp, climbing awkwardly on loose slate scree slopes which may have a covering of snow, to reach the summit of the Kang La (5350m). This high pass is gateway to Upper Dolpo, also known locally as the Ngadra La and is adorned with cairns and prayer flags. We make a steep descent of around 45 minutes to the valley floor and follow the river easily for a further 3 hours to reach Shey Gompa, the entrance of which is marked by a red and white chorten and snaking lines of mani stones. The monastery is located beneath the strange Crystal Mountain on a small grassy area at the confluence of two rivers. Physically the gompa, surrounded by half a dozen red-painted buildings, is not very imposing, but the setting is very dramatic and there is no doubt why this place is so revered by both Buddhists and followers of the Bon religion. We set up our camp just below the gompa in a meadow containing a few herders’ huts.

Rest day at Shey Gompa

We have a day to explore the environs and to catch up on laundry and other camp chores. In the afternoon we side trip to visit the amazing Kagyupa monastery of Tsa Kang which is perched on a narrow ledge high on a cliff face. To get there we have to climb part way on the trail which pilgrims follow to make the 'Kora' or circuit of the Crystal Mountain. And we get back to Shey Gompa again.

Shey Gompa to Tora/ Samling Gompa (4120) 6-7 hours

Our trail heads north from Shey Gompa, cutting up the hillside on the east side of the Tartan Khola and skirting around at the head of a tributary valley to a high grazing area near the Den La. Following a broad stock trail across the open hillside, we drop down to Tora where the people from Bhijer graze their yaks in the summer. Depending on how long it has taken to get here, we could set up camp at Tora (4500m) or drop down to Samling Monastery (4120m).

Tora/ Samling Gompa to Bhijer (3850m) 3 hours

Samling is the oldest Bon Gompa in Dolpo and it is established in the 8th century. Its several white and brick-red buildings and chortens are scattered across a grassy slope and adorned with prayer flags. We will spend some time looking around. From Samling it's just a short walk to the village of Bhijer (3850m), a pleasant, welcoming and very Dolpo Pa village which sees very few trekkers. The house at Bhijer typically have an upper living space with the ground floor being used to shelter animals at night. The village has an open, sunny location and there's lots to see and do here. Look out for the local women doing their spinning, watch the barley harvest or visit the gompa. There is also a simple school, shop and a health post. This is the last place where the cook team may be able to purchase some fresh vegetables before reaching Mugu.

Bhijer to Tora Khola (3400m) Crossing Yambur La (4800m) 6-7 hours

Leaving Bhijer and heading north again, the first obstacle we are faced with is the Yambur La (4800m). It's a pretty abrupt climb on a zig-zagging trail which is likely to take us 4 hours. Look out for the wild blue sheep (bharal) which are not uncommon in this area. Look out also for the deep blue gentians that grow alongside the trail. Beyond the pass, we'll drop down through the remains of the long-deserted village of Potal and continue descending steeply for another hour to the Tora Khola (3400m). It's warmer down here and there's just about room to camp close to the old wooden cantilever bridge.

Tora Khola to Pho (4020m) 3-4 hours

Just a short stage today; we'll aim to reach camp at Pho in the late morning and have lunch there. We head downstream (north) for about half an hour and then turn to head westwards and steeply uphill to the small village of Pho (4020m) which may be the most remote settlement Nepal. Few people live here now and there are signs that the numbers are dwindling. Some of the fields on the edge of the village are eroded and no longer maintained. Nevertheless, Pho is a good place to make camp with level pitches and a clean and plentiful water supply.

Pho to Daldung Khor(4700m) cross Nyingma Gyalzen La (5500m) 8-9 hours

Once again, we are likely to see lots of blue sheep on this part of our route. We then have a similar, if slightly less steep, continuation of the day's walk up to our and cross Nyingma Gyanzen La . From here we can see numerous 6000 to 6800 metre snow-peaks of the Kanjiroba Himal more than make up for that. From Nyimagalzen La we descent down for 2 hours and reach at Daldung Khor and we ste our camp.

Daldung Khor to Swaksa Khola/Pung Kharka (4500m) 3-4 hours

Today is short trek, as we had very long and hard day yesterday. After breakfast descend to Swaksa Khola and following the river for 2-3 hours we reach at magnificent valley. This is a magnificent valley trending north-south which clearly sees very few trekkers, although these high valleys are visited in early summer each year by local people searching for the valuable caterpillar-fungus known as yarsagumba.

Pung Kharka to Marjung Khola or the Chyandi Khola (4800m) crossing Cross the Yala La (5250m) 7-8 hours.

The route initially takes us alongside the Swaksa Khola and we can look out for the hoof marks of blue sheep and the pug marks of snow leopards in the sand beside the stream. We then turn left out of the valley and make a long and sustained ascent across a grassy hillside to the Yala La (5250m) which we reach after about 3 hours. We'll spend a bit of time at the pass to enjoy more great views, snow-capped peaks in all directions, before setting off on the rocky descent into the valley of the Chyandi Khola. We reach our camp in the valley at an elevation of around 4800 metres in the late afternoon.

Chyandi Khola to Takla Khola (3750m).

Today is a long and challenging day as we descend the Chyandi Khola. There is no well-made path and we have to negotiate a lot of difficult terrain, possibly including the use of a safety rope on some short sections. Progress is likely to be slow and we will need to ford the river several times. Equally, we will have to climb up above the river at times to find the best route and this will involve contouring on a poor trail for extended periods, before a final zig-zagging descent through ancient birch forest to the junction with the Takla Khola. A final river crossing on a log bridge before our arrival at camp may also require the use of a safety rope.

Takla Khola to Thajuchaur (4000m) Crossing the Chyargo La (5100m) 7-8 hours

Another long day, initially trekking to Chyargo La Phedi at 4300 metres and then steadily upwards to the cairn-marked Chyargo La (5100m), which we reach after around 5 hours. This is a bleak and rocky place but with amazing views which provide a great overview of some of the geography we have been travelling through over recent days. It really is wild terrain. A long descent then takes us into a gorge-like valley where the route becomes more tenuous again, with a mix of thick forest and several river crossings to negotiate. There is a place to camp at Thajuchaur at around 4000 metres elevation.

Thajuchaur to Shilenchaur Kharka (2945m) 5-6 hours

It's a relatively short distance from our camp down to the Mugu Khola, but making progress through this steep-sided and forested valley remains time-consuming with several more river crossings. Thankfully, there are bridges for the last couple of these crossings, before we emerge quite suddenly into the valley of the Mugu Khola. Here, we meet the main trail that links Rara Lake to the south with the village of Mugu and Tibet to the north.

Sparse Day- It can be used in-case of difficulty or Detour to Mugu village

This day we use if there is difficulty during trek from Pho to Shilenchaur Kharka. If not then we detour to Mugu village. Great Himalaya Trail heads south from here, but we turn north (on the good trail) to Mugu which is about 3 hours away. There's a chance of encountering other trekkers on this trail. Arriving at Mugu (3400m), we set up camp on the broad, flat valley floor immediately below the village.

Shilenchaur KharkaTrek to Pulu or Riusa (2250m) 7-8 hours.

We have 3 days to trek to the airport at Talcha just to the east of Rara Lake and for the whole of this journey we will be on reasonably good trails that link the villages in the valley of the Mugu Karnali. On this first day we descend steadily to the confluence of the Mugu with the NamlangNadi at Tyar and continue westwards for a further hour or two to a camping place beside the river below one of two villages, either Pulu or a little further on, Riusa.

Day 23: Pulu to Kumpha (2010m) 7-8 hours.

Another longish day in terms of distance but no big climbs, just 'Nepali undulation' beside the river. Again, there are lots of great views and we'll have plenty of opportunity to interact with the local people that we meet on the trail. We pass through the striking settlement of Mangri which sits amongst its terraced fields on a bench above the south side of the river. Now heading in a south-westerly direction, we continue beside the Mugu Karnali through the village of Chhaila to a camping place close to the houses of Kumpha (2010m).

Kumpha to Talcha Airport (2750m) 7 hours.

We'll have an early start on this final day of trekking and aim to reach the busy little town of Gamgadhi in time for lunch at a lodge. After lunch, there's a steady climb up to the airfield at Talcha where we set up our final camp. There are few facilities here, but there is a good view north-eastwards to the peaks above Mugu.

Fly from Talcha to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu.

The early morning flight takes us out of the cool, fresh mountains of Dolpo and into the hot and humid Terrai region at Nepalgunj. This time, however, it is a short stop and we soon connect with our flight to Kathmandu, where we check into our hotel. Time now for a cleanup and a look in the mirror (if you dare). This evening we have to get used to some fine dining and the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu's busy streets.

A free day in Kathmandu which can also be used as contingency.

This is a contingency day in case of problems with the weather-dependent flight out of Talcha. If we have flown on schedule this will be a day to relax and enjoy the delights of Kathmandu.

Departure day-Fly back to home

Our staff transfer you to Tribhuvan International airport.

Our services include

• Airport pickup and drop.
• 3 Nights Hotel Accommodations in Kathmandu.
• One-night hotel accommodation and dinner in Nepalgunj.
• Domestic airfare: Kathmandu-Nepalgunj -Dolpo & Talcha- Nepalgunj and Kathmandu.
• All the government procedures.
• Lower Dolpo, Upper Dolpo, and Upper Mugu, trekking permits, and National Park fees.
• One experienced English-speaking guide, Cook, Helpers, and Porters/Mules.
• Trekking equipment -Mattresses, Member tents, and Kitchen utensils.
• Three-time meals during a trek along with Tea/coffee and snacks.
• Staff's salary, food, insurance, and clothing.
• Farewell dinner in Kathmandu

Our services exclude

• International flights and visa fee.
• Personal expenses and meals in Kathmandu.
• Travel insurance, Rescue, and evacuation.
• Tips and gratitude for staffs.
• Donation and local entrance fee.
• Extra baggage load in domestic flights.

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Trip Highlights

• A trek from Lake to Lake (Phoksundo to Rara).
• One of most adventure treks in North west Nepal.
• An immersion into wilderness in between Upper Dolpo and Upper Mugu.
• Witness the Dolpo Pa culture and Mugumpa culture.
• Pass through the most remote hamlets of Nepal( Bhijer, and Pho, and Mugu)

At A Glance

Group size:, max. altitude:, accomodation & meal.

• 3 nights in three star hotel in Kathmandu.
• 1 night in three star hotel in Nepalgunj.
• 23 days tented camping

Preparation

• Trekking Gear
• Trekking Info

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• Destination Nepal
• Region Dolpo
• Duration 17 Days
• Transportation Flight/Drive
• Max Height 5309m.
• Activity Trekking
• Trip Grade Moderate
• Accomodation Hotel/Lodge
• Group Size Mini. 2 Pax
• Best Season Sep-Dec & Mar-May
• Meals B.L.D.
• Start / End Point Nepalgunj to Nepalgunj

Trip Overview

Lower Dolpo Trekking  a unique and scenic adventure away from mainstream trails leads you to far corners of the  western Himalayas . The charm of Lower  Dolpo Trekking  is visiting around beautiful Shey-Phoksundo National Park, the largest park in Nepal. The adventure takes you to turquoise Phoksundo Lake at Ringmo village, a great place to be. A blend of local impressive culture and lovely scenic surroundings lined with tall blue pines, spruce, cypress, and first trees.

Explore the Hidden Beauty & Multi Cultures of Western Nepal

An enjoyable walk reaching Phoksundo Lake, the main highlight of the treks. After a wonderful time at the emerald-colored lake, and then heading towards another side of inner and  lower Dolpo . From Ringmo village within the complete wilderness, walking through smaller settlements of Yak herders around summer grazing pastures. The adventure leads to a high Baga-La pass, rewards with a breathtaking panorama of  Dolpo landscape s, and snow peaks of Kagmara and Dhaulagiri Himal.

On reaching the eastern  region of Dolpo , the route leads to cross another high pass of  Numa-La at 5,309 m . From the top enjoy the glorious scenery of striking landscapes of Dolpo with views of the  Dhaulagiri Himal range. The return journey is more interesting following a trail to the largest Dho-Tarap valley, after spending an enjoyable time at Tokyu village.

Off-Beaten Trekking Trail with Less-Crowded Journeys in Nepal

Our route leads southwest encountering yak and mule caravans laden with goods on the way to the Tibet border. This area falls within an old Trans Himalaya Salt Trade Trail of Nepal and Tibet. The adventure follows the  Dho-Tarap Chu River  and then reaches a narrow path into a gorge of a high rocky cliff with waterfalls.

Finally entering into another wide-open valley towards a historical place at Tarakot. A village with a fortress as the name Kot means fort, a lively village to visit its famous old monasteries. From Tarakot our adventurous walk concludes, where an interesting drive brings you to Jhupal for the last overnight halt around Dolpo.

Next early morning an exciting flight takes you back to Kathmandu via the city of Nepalgunj. Finally, our marvelous adventure of great  experience around Lower Dolpo Trekking  completes on reaching  Kathmandu .

Highlights of Dolp Trek

• Scenic and cultural adventure around beautiful areas of lower Dolpo
• The beautiful emerald lake of Phoksundo is surrounded by picturesque scenery
• Adventure around remote pockets of inner Dolpo and over high scenic passes
• Explore the hidden corners of  Nepal’s Far Western Himalayas  of enchantments
• Walk into the lively traditional villages of Ringmo , Tokyu, and  historical Tarako

Short Trek Profile:

Trekking Mode:  In local lodges and tented camping. Trekking Grade:  Moderate to Adventurous. Highest Spot:  On top Baga-La 5,169 m & Numa-La 5,309 m. Area of Trekking:  Nepal Far North West around Karnali Zone. Trekking Days:  14 Nights and 15 Days with flight both ways. Total Trip: 18 Nights and 19 Days from arrival to final departure.

Best is an ideal time to do the trek in west Nepal?

For  Lower Dolpo Trek the best time is from April to October which includes late spring, summer, and autumn seasons. The best and high time is from late spring, most days are clear and fine for pleasant walks and views, and this is the time when wildflowers are in seasonal bloom. Can get cloudy in the afternoon with chances of snow above 3,000 m higher. Cold in the morning and nighttime, longer days full of sunshine.

The other best seasons are from summer till autumn, where most days are crystal clear with blue sky. Chances of snow sometimes at higher altitudes above 3,000 m. For interested people can visit during monsoon times of June to August also, longer days with enough sun-light hours and much colder with freezing temperatures around higher altitudes with chances of snowfall sometimes.

Dolpo region falls within rain shadow where black heavy monsoon clouds are blocked by the high Himalayan range. This is why most areas are dry and barren with less rain and moisture similar to Tibetan landscapes.

15 Days Outline Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu 1,320 m and transfer to hotel. Day 02: In Kathmandu for trek preparation and fly to Nepalgunj. Day 03: Fly to Jhupal 2,475 m then drive to Dunai 2,140 m – 02 hrs. Day 04: Trek to Chhepka 2,838 m – 06 hrs. Day 05: Trek to Samdua village 2,960m -06 hrs. Day 06: Trek to Phuksumdo Lake 3,630 m – 06 hours. Day 07: Rest day at Phuksumdo Lake for local excursion. Day 08: Trek to Temche 3,995 m near Ghuchun Khola – 05 hrs. Day 09: Trek and cross Baga-La 5,169 m camp at Danigar 4,512 m – 06 hrs. Day 10: Cross Numa-La 5,309 m and camp at base (phedi) 4,440 m – 06 hrs. Day 11: Trek to Tokyu Gaon 4,209 m via Khanger – 06 hrs. Day 12: Trek to Dho Tarap 3, 944 m- 05 hrs. Day 13: Trek to Ghyamgar 3,759 m – 07 hrs. Day 14: Trek to Tarap Khola 3,652 via Chyugar 3,440 m – 06 hours. Day 15: Trek to Tarakot 2,540 m – 06 hrs. Day 16: Trek to Dunai – 05 hrs then drive to Jhupal – 02 hr jeep ride. Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj and transfer to the hotel. Day 18: In Kathmandu free day at leisure. Day 19: Depart Kathmandu for international flight homeward bound.

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Details itinerary, day 01: arrival in kathmandu 1,320 m and transfer to hotel..

On arrival at Kathmandu-Nepal international airport, received by our guide for a short transfer to your hotel in the center of the city. The briefing provides by our guide regarding the hotel, treks, and local lodges. The evening group welcomes dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant as an introduction to local foods with cultural folk programs.

Day 02: In Kathmandu for trek preparation and fly to Nepalgunj.

Morning free in Kathmandu for trek preparation, after a leisure morning having rest and packing for the trek. Afternoon transfer to Kathmandu domestic airport for flight to Nepalgunj city airport. Located Nepal Far South West around low warm sub-tropical climate. During the flight of 50 minutes enjoy super views of the Himalayan range, on reaching at Nepalgunj airport transfer to a nice hotel close to the city with time to browse around the streets of Nepalgunj.

Day 03: Fly to Jhupal 2,475 m then drive to Dunai 2,140 m – 02 hrs.

From Nepalgunj having an early breakfast transfer to Nepalgunj airport for a short flight to Dolpo at Jhupal with a small airstrip. A swift short scenic flight of 40 minutes landed at Jhupal. Where you will be received by our trekking and camping crews and then board in a jeep or four-wheel drive. A short drive of a few hours to the major town at Dunai, headquarters and administrative town of Dolpo district. On reaching at Dunai transfer into a local lodge for an overnight stop, with time to explore the mountain town and witness the culture of both Hindu and Buddhist religions.

Day 04: Trek to Chhepka 2,838 m – 06 hrs.

Spending first overnight in Dolpo at Dunai, start the morning walk after a simple breakfast, from here onwards in tented camp all meals cooked and served by our camping cook and staff. Walk follows through the main bazaar of Dunai and then cross over a bridge above Thulo Bheri River. As climb leads to a high ridge leading to Phoksundo River, as you face Kagmara peak. From the high hill downhill past farm villages with nice crops and fruit terraces of walnut trees. Then reaching at Dhera, a small settlement of yak herders, as the walk continues with a short climb reaching at Raha-Gaon. A village mostly populated by Hindu Thakuri Malla mid-hills tribes of Dolpo and Western Nepal. From Raha-Gaon head downhill within a forested area towards our overnight camp at Chhepka, a small farm village.

Day 05: Trek to Samdua village 2,960 m -06 hrs.

After the first overnight in a tented camp, with full great services of camping staff and cook, enjoying a hearty breakfast. Start the adventure by heading close to the village of Ankhe. As climb starts to a high hill and then downhill into forested reaching a riverbank. Another climb after leaving the forest for a while and then back within a tree line after a short climb uphill and downhill reaching a small bridge at Ryajik village. From here the route leads further towards a small place of Samdua for an overnight camp which is close to the entrance of Phoksundo National Park.

Day 06: Trek to Phoksundo Lake 3,630 m – 06 hours.

The boundary of Shey Phoksundo National Park, which is also the largest park of Nepal covers 3,555 sq. km area, extends near to Dhaulagiri Himalaya and Mustang district in the east, as well Jumla and Mugu in the west. Morning walk starts heading towards our first main destination and highlight at Phoksundo Lake. As the walk leads past Pungmo Khola stream and the valley with downhill reaching into pine and birch tree woods and then reaching on the upper side of Phoksundo Khola. After a few short stops walk continues to Ringmo village, an interesting settlement with inhabitants of the Dolpa people of Tibetan origin. A nice village with mud-plastered Chorten and Mani (prayer) walls with a small monastery, the Dolpo native practice Buddhism and an ancient cult called Bon, worship of nature and mountain spirits. Either overnight at Ringmo village or further to camp close to Phoksundo Lake for overnight.

Day 07: Rest day at Phoksundo Lake for local excursion.

A perfect place for a rest day to support acclimatization, where interested people can take a short hike and explore the Ringmo village or around the pristine Ringmo / Phoksundo Lake. As well enjoy the grand views of Kagmara snow peaks and its scenic surrounding.

Day 08: Trek to Temche 3,995 m near Ghuchun Khola – 05 hrs.

From Phoksundo Lake, after a pleasant rest day with time to explore around local culture, the morning starts heading towards east a return journey via an alternative route. Walk follows to Muduwa a small village and then across a stream of Muduwa to reach a gorge and then finally at Temche for an overnight stop near Ghuchun Khola (stream).

Day 09: Trek and cross Baga-La 5,169 m, camp at Danigar 4,512 m – 06 hrs.

The morning begins on a pleasant winding trail and then reaching at the base of Baga-La Pass. After a short rest continue to walk with a climb on the steep slope to the top of Baga-La, the first pass of the adventure at 5,169 m high. From the top enjoy super views of Phoksundo Lake with Kagmara peaks, and then head downhill to our overnight camp at Danigar or Phedi, the base and bottom of Baga-La on the other side of Dolpo.

Day 10: Cross Numa-La (South) 5,309 m, camp at base (phedi) 4,440 m – 06 hrs.

Another pass to cross today, the highest point of the journey over Numa-La, as morning begins with a pleasant walk for short while and then climb towards Numa-La at 5,309 m, the highest spot of the adventure. On reaching the top of Numa-La enjoys a grand panorama of the Dhaulagiri Himalaya range towards the east with Kagmara in the west direction, from the pass downhill towards our overnight camp on a nice pasture field at the base of Numa-La Phedi or bottom.

Day 11: Trek to Tokyu Gaon 4,209 m via Khanger – 06 hrs.

After being in complete isolation around the pure wilderness, today’s walk leads back into human civilization at large Tokyu Gaon. Morning from the base of Numa-La, the wall leads to a short steep climb on a small hill, with more views of Mt. Dhaulagiri as the trail descends towards Modo valley, time permitting visit the old monastery, from here onward the route of Upper and Lower Dolpo joins. From Modo and past Khanger walk on the gradual trail to Tokyu-Gaon for overnight stop, one of the largest and impressive villages of inner and Lower Dolpo, the village itself consist of more than ten villages with nice farm fields of wheat, and barley with old monasteries of both sects Bon and Buddhism religions.

Day 12: Trek to Dho Tarap 3, 944 m- 05 hrs.

Staying at a nice village at Tokyu Gaon after an enjoyable pleasant overnight and exploring this lovely cultural village, the morning begins heading downhill towards Tarap Chu valley, a wide field with a number of temporary settlements of Yak and sheepherders summer pasture grazing area. The walk continues further down at Dho Tarap for overnight halt, another nice and interesting village of mixed tribes of people the Dolpa of Tibetans origin and Magar hill tribes of western Nepal.

Day 13: Trek to Ghyamgar 3,759 m – 07 hrs.

From here a long descend to Tarap valley, the largest and longest valley of Dolpo area stretches near 20 k.m. our walk follows Tarap Chu River all the way till it joins the Thuli Bheri River near Tarakot village. The route leads past Langa near a beautiful waterfall, as the walk heads south then reaches a small settlement of Kesila around cattle herder summer camps, and then eventually ends the day walk at Ghyamgar for overnight camp.

Day 14: Trek to Tarap Khola 3,652 via Chyugar 3,440 m – 06 hours.

Slowly our adventure nears the end of a journey, as morning walks follow to a nice valley of Tarap, and then enter a narrow gorge with few vegetation of juniper and wild rose, the trail follows past a small clearing at Tol-Tol a place with a large overhanging cave. The area where wildlife like Naur or Blue Sheep often dwells for grazing and might spot some mountain animals. The walk continues on reaching a confluence of Tarap Chu and Lang Khola streams, where our overnight camp is set by the river bank on a grassy meadow.

Day 15: Trek to Tarakot 2,540 m – 06 hrs.

Morning walk starts heading through spread out smaller settlements and farm villages, then through a small forest area, the walk follows along the riverside and then climb up to the village of Tarakot. Tarakot, a large and historical village with an old fortress where in early days caravan laden with goods passed through Tarakot on route to Tibet on old Trans Himalaya Salt Trade trail. Tarakot was the place taking toll and taxes during the ancient Malla kingdom regime. At Tarakot for overnight last overnight in a tented camp, with time visit the old Sandul Gomba located on a junction of Barbung Khola and Tarap Chu River.

Day 16: Trek to Dunai – 05 hrs then drive to Jhupal – 02 hr jeep ride.

Today the last day walk of the adventure, on leaving Tarakot heading to Dunai as walk follows on a nice gradual path for short while reaching a motorable road, then boarding in the local jeep or similar vehicle, where the drive takes you to Dunai for lunch and then continue to drive to Jhupal for last overnight around Dolpo.

Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj and transfer to the hotel.

Early morning after a good breakfast, walk towards an airfield for the short flight to Nepalgunj, on arrival at Nepalgunj city airport with time for rest and refreshment before connecting another flight back to Kathmandu. On reaching Kathmandu transfer back to your hotels, rest of the afternoon at leisure.

Day 18: In Kathmandu free day with a sightseeing tour.

Reserved an extra or spare as a contingency day in Kathmandu, where sometimes the flight to and from Jhupal can get delayed or lead to cancellation depending upon the weather condition. Sometimes the weather can be unpredictable for flight to the mountainous regions like Dolpo. If all goes as per our standard itinerary days enjoy free time in Kathmandu for a leisure tour around world heritage sites or just relax and recall the memories of Lower Dolpo Trekking.

Day 19: Depart Kathmandu for international flight homeward bound.

Last day in Nepal and at Kathmandu, as per your international flight time our staff and guide transfer you to the airport for homeward bound or to the next port of call, after an amazing and memorable adventure on Lower Dolpo Trekking.

• Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up and Drop by private car/van/bus.
• Hotel In Kathmandu: 3 Nights standard accommodation in Katmandu BB Plan
• Bothway Flight ticket Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Nepalgunj to Kathmandu
• You’re Meal in During the Trekking as Your standard meals (3 times a day Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner with a cup of tea or coffee).
• All necessary paperwork and permits (Lower Dolpa Restricted Area Permit )
• All Local Ground transportation
• Accommodation in Trekking: All accommodations in lodge/tea houses during the trek & Campsite where is not able to lodge.
• Trekking Guide: An experienced, helpful, friendly, and English-speaking Trekking Guide. His well-paid salary, meals, accommodation insurance and flight ticket etc.
• Trekking Porter: porters (1 porter for 2 people). Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transportation.
•  NHTE’s down jacket, Sleeping bag & duffle bag(If you needed)
• Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by your Travel insurance company.
• Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
• Welcome & Farewell dinner.

COST EXCLUDES

• Meals and Extra Accommodation in Kathmandu
• Deserts (cakes, bakes, and pies)
• The additional size of Pots Hot Drinks
• Bottled drinks
• Boiled water
• Electronic device re-charge
• On the trekking Wi-Fi
• Personal expenses any type
• Travel insurance and evacuation insurance
• Tipping for Guide and Porter

Lower Dolpo Trekking Map

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Enjoy your trip, lower dolpo trekking.

Lower Dolpo Trekking is another famous restricted area trek in Nepal. This trek comprises naturally beautiful and culturally important places and villages of the Lower Dolpo region. This trek is also adventurous because trekkers need to cross the challenging passes named Numa La (4,420m), and Baga La (4,080m) to complete this trek. During this trek, trekkers get the opportunity to visit ancient villages of the Lower Dolpo region such as Tarakot, Dho Tarap, and Ringmo where trekkers can know and experience the diverse culture, systems, customs, rituals, festivals, and way of life of different ethnic groups. Shey Phoksundo Lake is the final destination of the lower Dolpo trek. Shey Phoksundo Lake is very magnificent with its clear blue water.

Some of the areas of the lower Dolpo region are protected by the Shey Phoksundo National park. The trekking route of the lower Dolpo region goes through the beautiful and dense forests of Shey Phoksundo national park where trekkers can see the different species of flora and fauna. The forests of Shey Phoksundo national park mainly comprise blue pine, spruce, cypress, poplar, deodar, fir, and birch. In these dense forests, trekkers can see several rare and non-rare wild animals such as snow leopards, blue sheep, wolves, jackals, Himalayan black bears, Himalayan weasel, Himalayan mouse hare, langur, and rhesus monkeys.

Lower Dolpo is one of the most remote areas of Nepal so trekkers need to endure many difficulties during this trek. Trekkers should have sound health and good trekking experience to complete this trek. Despite the hardship during lower Dolpo treks, trekkers are rewarded by the natural and cultural beauties of the region which make this trek mesmerizing. Lower Dolpo is listed in restricted trekking areas of Nepal so a special trekking permit should be required before trekking this region. As a government-registered trekking agency, we arrange trek permits for the lower Dolpo trek.

• Beautiful landscapes of the Lower Dolpo region
• Mesmerizing Shey Phoksundo Lake
• Shey Phoksundo national park and its diverse flora and fauna
• Ancient villages such as Tarakot, Dho Tarap, and Ringmo
• Diverse culture, systems, customs, rituals, festivals, and ways of life of different ethnic groups

Short Itinerary

Day 01: Pick up from the airport and drop by the hotel Day 02: Sightseeing around Kathmandu and pre-trip meeting Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj Day 04: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal, then trek to Dunai (2140 meters) Day 05: Dunai to Tarakot, (2537m) Day 06: Tarakot to Laina Odar, (3370m) Day 07 : Laina Odar to Ghyamgar (3756m) Day 08: Ghyamgar to Dho Tarap, (3944m) Day 09: Exploration day Day 10: Dho tarap to Numala Base Camp (4420m) Day 11: Numa La Base camp to Bagala Base Camp, (4115m) Day 12: Bagala base Camp to yak kharka, (3982m) Day 13: Yak kharka to Ringmogaun Phoksundo, (3733m) Day 14: Ringmogaun to Chepka, (2838m) Day 15: Chhepka to Sulighat, (2282m) Day 16: Sulighat to Juphal (2475m) Day 17: Juphal to Nepalgunj then fly to Kathmandu Day 18: Your program Day 19: Transfer to the airport for your onward destination

• All land transportation as required for trip and airport pick up-drop.
• Hotel in Kathmandu for above mentioned program.
• Accommodation and foods during the trek.
• Domestic flight tickets.
• Dolpo entry permit and trekking permit and national park permit.
• Related language speaking guide,special camping cook and necessary crews.
• Allowances for all Nepali team and their insurance.
• Emergency evacuation service if in case...needed
• Foods in Kathmandu
• Your personal trekking gears and expenses
• Emergency rescue cost if in case
• Tip to guide, porters

Detail Itinerary

Day 01: pick up from the airport and transfer to the hotel.

Our representative welcomes you outside the International Airport. After completing all the formalities, you are picked up from the airport and transferred to the hotel.

Day 02: Sightseeing around Kathmandu and pre-trip meeting

The pre-trip meeting is done after breakfast. All details and arrangements of the trip are explained and necessary permits are collected. After completing all procedures, proceed for short sightseeing around Kathmandu city. Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square and return to the hotel. Arrange a backpack with all the necessary things. Stay overnight at a hotel.

Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj

A scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. Enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains. Upon arriving, transfer to a hotel. Later, visit the nearby places in Nepalgunj, Spend overnight at a hotel.

Day 04: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal, then trek to Dunai (2140 meters)

A short flight from Nepalgunj towards Juphal. Upon arriving at Juphal, the trek commences to Dunai. Pass along the Thulo Bheri river adoring the natural beauty of the surroundings. Arrive at Dunai after 3 hours and set a camp. Rest for a while and if you wish, explore the nearby places. Stay overnight at a camp.

Day 05: Dunai to Tarakot, (2537m)

Walk through the pine forest and pass along the terraced fields. Witness the beautiful views on a clear day and arrive at Tarakot. Visit the Sandul Gompa and get a sight of several chortens and mani walls. Stay overnight at a camp.

Day 06: Tarakot to Laina Odar, (3370m)

Walk through several suspension bridges and pass the lush forest to reach Laina Odar. The Cliffside nearby is strange and a cave nearby is perfect to set the camp. Stay overnight at a camp.

Day 07: Laina Odar to Ghyamgar (3756m)

Walk through the barren landscapes leaving the dense forest. Slowly ascend through the side of Tarap Khola and get some sights of blue sheep and yaks. Cross the suspension bridge over the Chaya Khola to reach Nawarpani. Keep continuing until Ghyamgar. Stay overnight at a camp.

Day 08: Ghyamgar to Dho Tarap, (3944m)

Walk on the trail following the Tarap Khola and descend towards the narrow valley. Witness several stupas and chortens on the way and pass through it to reach Dho Tarap. This beautiful Tibetan village is the destination to set up the camp. Stay overnight at a camp.

Day 09: Exploration day

The rest day is scheduled for proper acclimatization to adjust to the higher altitudes. The day is the full exploration day and won’t miss this opportunity. A visit to the Gompas, interacting with locals and learning about their culture and lifestyle. The breathtaking views of mountain peaks and enjoy walking around the attractive laneways. Also, visit the nearby places and stay overnight at a camp.

Day 10: Dho tarap to Numa La Base Camp, (4420m)

An exciting trek towards Numala Base camp begins. Walk through the barren part of the valley on the northern side admiring the stunning landscapes. In the backdrop, the spectacular views of Mt. Dhaulagiri and other peaks are mesmerizing. Keep walking to the trail and reach the rocky basin. Finally, arrive at Numa La Base Camp and set a camp for an overnight stay.

Day 11: Numa La Base camp to Bagala Base Camp, (4080m)

Get ready to walk towards the Numa La Pass from the Numa La Base Camp. A challenging yet exciting experience to reach the top of the pass. Slow and careful walk towards the top and witness the fabulous scenery from there. After that, walk downhill along the terraced fields, and yak pastures and reach Danigar. Continue walking through a deep gorge adoring the mountain ranges and surrounding natural beauty. Feel the change in climate and pass through the pine forest towards the Bagala Base Camp. Stay overnight at a camp.

Day 12: Bagala base Camp to Yak Kharka, (3982m)

Walk on the steep trail and keep on ascending. From the top, enjoy the spectacular views of majestic peaks including Norbung Kang and attractive Phoksundo Lake. Slowly descend and arrive at Temche. From there, walk downhill a little further and reach Yak Kharka. Stay overnight at a camp.

Day 13: Yak Kharka to Ringmo gaun – Explore Phoksundo, (3733m)

An ascend walk towards beautiful Ringmo Gaun through the forest trail. A pleasant experience walking in the lush green forest full of pine, oak, juniper, and cypress trees. Also, in the background, the snow-capped mountains add more beauty. Arrive at Tibetan Bon settlement village Ringmo. Set up a tent camp and rest for a while. Then, head towards the mesmerizing and deepest Phosundo Lake of Nepal. A short walk from the Ringmo takes us to the vicinity of the lake. Shey Phoksundo Lake is very magnificent with its clear blue water. Spend some time and take some pictures and return to the village. Later, explore the Tshowa Monastery which was built 900 years ago. Interact with locals and get to learn about their culture, religion, customs, and way of living. Stay overnight at a camp.

Day 14: Ringmo gaun to Chhepka, (2838m)

A slow walk along the riverside and a steep ascent towards the hilltop. Get an awesome view of the mesmerizing Phoksundo Lake for one last time. After that, climb downhill and move forward to Chunuwar. Pass through the forest trail of pine and birch trees and reach Renje. Arrive at Chhepka after a few ascends and descends through the trail. Stay overnight at a camp.

Day 15: Chhepka to Sulighat, (2282m)

Walk across the villages of Shyanta and Kageni and through the forested trail. Arrive at the checkpoint of Shey Phoksundo National Park. Traverse through a suspension bridge over the Dhim Khola. From there, keep continuing until Sulighat. Stay overnight at a camp.

Day 16: Sulighat to Juphal (2475m)

An ascending walk towards Dunai commences traversing the Bheri River. Admire the beautiful scenery and pass several villages before reaching Juphal. Walk through the narrow path and pass the lovely fields of wheat and barley. Arrive at Juphal and stay overnight at a hotel.

Day 17: Juphal flies to Nepalgunj then fly to Kathmandu

A scenic flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj. After that, board for the Kathmandu flight as per the schedule. Rest in a hotel room or explore nearby places if time permits. Return to Kathmandu and then transferred to a hotel. Rest, relax, and spend a night in a hotel.

Day 18: Your program

After completing the long but fruitful trek, a leisure day for you to schedule your program and enjoy the time. Utilize the day, exploring or shopping, or enjoying cuisines. Spend the day as you desire and as your program and schedule.

Day 19: Transfer to the airport for your onward destination

Our representative bids farewell and transfers you to the airport for your onward destination. A final goodbye and looking forward to seeing you again in Nepal.

Travel Information Lower Dolpo

Accommodation and duration.

Accommodations in the Lower Dolpo Treks are mostly tented camps. The trek duration is of 19 days including arrival in Kathmandu to departure from the International Airport. But, from the starting point to the end point, the actual trek duration is 13 days. Lower Dolpo is a remote place and thus the accommodation for 11 days is in a tented camp. The remaining days are spent in a comfortable hotel with good facilities. We provide you with high qualities equipment, the best quality tents for the kitchen, dining sleeping, & toilets, a gas stove for cooking meals & necessary cooking utensils, towels, hand wash soaps, toilet papers, and dining chairs & tables for eating. Don’t panic as all this equipment is carried by our porters. Besides this, carry your hygiene kit.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are provided during the camping treks, and only breakfast during your stay in the hotels. A professional chef accompanies you during the camping treks and serves you healthy and hygienic local Nepali dishes. The staple dish is Nepali Dal Bhat with vegetable curry, pickles, and seasonal salads. The food ingredients are carried since the Lower Dolpo Trek is a fully camping trek. Thus, don’t expect a high variety of dishes but basic food dishes with limited varieties are served which are high in nutritional value and suitable for the trek. Some food items like dal, bhat, vegetable curry, eggs, soups, noodles, hot tea, coffee, roti (bread), jam, etc. are served.

Drinking water

Drinking water in the hotels is easily available of your choice. You can buy mineral water bottles too. During the camping treks, drinking water for you is boiled water. If you feel uncomfortable or have some doubts, fill the water in your bottle. And, apply purification treatment using water purification tablets or devices. Don’t forget to bring water purification tablets, and a sustainable water bottle. Having your water bottle helps in minimizing the wastage of plastic water bottles.

Communication

Dolpo is a remote region and only a few places have communication signals. Though some villages have satellite telephones, it is used for emergency purposes. With an additional charge, you can use the Wi-Fi facility in Dunai. Since the place is very remote, they are not equipped with all facilities. Bring necessary equipment like a solar power bank for charging your cameras and phones. The remoteness of Lower Dolpo is its beauty to keeps you away from the hustle and bustle of crowds. So, enjoy the trek and create some best memories without worries about using mobile phones or checking emails.

Starting and Ending points

The starting point of the Lower Dolpo Trek is from Juphal and ends in Juphal. From Juphal, take a flight to Nepalgunj and from Nepalgunj return to Kathmandu via plane.

Permits Required

Restricted Area Permits (RAP) for Lower Dolpo and Shey Phoksundo National Park Permits are required to trek to Lower Dolpo.

Lower Dolpo permit fee : USD 20 per person/week Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit fee : NPR 3000

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance is compulsory while traveling. In the case of Lower Dolpo Trek, travel insurance is strongly recommended due to the remoteness of the region. It acts as a safety guard against possible emergencies. Any happenings during the trek are the clients’ sole responsibility. Therefore, have travel insurance that covers all medical emergencies, helicopter rescue, air ambulance, flight cancelations, loss/theft of luggage, personal expenses, cover repatriation, evacuations, and altitude sickness. Do carry a copy of your travel insurance and also send a copy to us for making the necessary arrangements in case of emergencies.

Safety and our guides

We assure you 100% when it comes to safety. Our client’s safety is our main concern. Our guides are certified and well-trained with years of expertise in this field. They are technically competent and have excelled in safety performance. They always carry essential safety equipment, gear, and first-aid kits. For the safety of our trekkers, the itinerary is properly scheduled and acclimatization rest days are properly set up to adjust to the high altitude and prevent altitude sickness. If any queries concerning safety, feel free to share them with our guides. We are always there for your services.

Best time to trek Lower Dolpo Trek

Mostly summer and autumn seasons are termed best for trekking in the mountains. But, Lower Dolpo is exceptional. Dolpo region of Nepal sees annual rainfall of less than 50mm. This makes Dolpo a perfect destination to trek from May to October. The monsoon season in Nepal is from June to August. Dolpo region of Nepal has the benefit of rain-shadow areas making it suitable for trekkers to trek in the monsoon season as well. During winter, the Dolpo region is closed for trekking as heavy snowfall occurs making it difficult for trekkers from November to April.

Lower Dolpo Trek Difficulty

Lower Dolpo Trek’s duration is 19 days. For almost 2 weeks, the trekking trail is in the remote region of Dolpo. Thus, it is one of the longest treks in the remote region of Nepal. The highest pass during the trek is Numa La Base Camp which is at an elevation of 4,420m. The trekking trail is very remote, barren, and has very little or no access to all sorts of facilities. Thus, trekkers must be physically fit and in good health condition before commencing the Lower Dolpo Trek. The trail consists of several ascends, descends, rough paths, and tough as the altitude rises. So, it is better to consult the doctor before starting the trek and perform all check-ups and take necessary actions. We suggest you take some physical exercises in different forms like swimming, cycling, running, day hiking, etc. for months before the Lower Dolpo Trek. Although the trek is tough, we assure you that the itinerary is planned with proper rest days which helps to complete the trek smoothly.

Acclimatization and Altitude Sickness at Lower Dolpo Trek

Acclimatization or rest days are quintessential during trekking. The Lower Dolpo Trek is one of the most difficult treks in Nepal due to its remoteness. Thus, acclimatization day is properly planned in the itinerary to prevent altitude sickness and adjust to higher altitudes. Dho Tarap (3,944m) is a rest day spot during the Lower Dolpo Trek. Most of the days are spent at an altitude of over 3000m. There is a great probability of altitude sickness.

Symptoms of Altitude Sickness Primary: Headache, nausea, gasping, appetite & sleep loss, dizziness, fatigue, vomiting Extreme: primary symptoms and hallucinations & unconsciousness

Preventive Guidelines

• Immediately inform the guide
• Warm-up, and body stretch before the trekking journey
• Drink water and Hydrate yourself at regular intervals
• Frequent urination throughout the journey
• Ascend slowly and gradually
• Take plenty of rest and sleep
• Avoid salty foods, alcohol, and smoking
• Descend immediately when it’s difficult/uneasy
• Take medicine consulting a guide

Luggage limitation for Porter

The luggage limitation depends on the trek duration and maximum altitude gain. Normally, one porter carries the luggage of two trekkers. The luggage limitation per person is a maximum of 15 kg. Since this is a camping trek, the camping pack is up to 40 kg. All arrangements are made considering the health of the porters.

• Shoes: Pair of hiking boots, Rubber sandals
• Clothes: Windcheater jacket, Thermals, Down Jacket, Fleece, Long sleeve shirts, Gloves, Towels, Inner garments, Trekking pants, Trousers, Shorts, Socks
• Accessories: Sunglasses, Hats/Caps, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Water bottles, Pocket Knife, Water Purifying solution
• Equipment: Warm Sleeping bags, Map, Trekking poles, Duffel bag
• Medicine: First-Aid Kit, Altitude sickness medicines
• Rainy season: Waterproof clothes, boots, Raincoat, Anti-leech socks
• Winter Season: Woolen clothing items (light)

It is best to bring the clothes and essential equipment from your home from the provided checklist. Also, you can buy or rent equipment and clothes in Kathmandu.

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• Rara Lake Trek
• Manaslu Circuit Rupina La Pass Trek
• Tsum Valley Ganesh Himal Base Camp Trek
• Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek
• Annapurna Base Camp Trek
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
• Upper Mustang Trek, Itinerary, Package, And Cost.
• Annapurna Community Lodge Trek
• Mardi Himal Trek
• Nar Phu Valley Trek
• Nar Phu Annapurna Tilicho Pass Trek
• Nar Phu Teri La Pass Upper Mustang Trek
• Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
• Jaljala Dhorpatan Trek
• Everest Base Camp Trek
• The 13 Days Everest Base Camp Trek
• Gokyo Lake Cho La Pass EBC Trek
• Gokyo Lakes Renjo La Pass Trek
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• Everest Three Passes Trek
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• Everest Luxury Trek
• Pikey Peak Dudhkunda Lake Trek
• Pikey Peak Trek 
• Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek
• Everest Base Camp Chola Pass Gokyo Trek
• Tamang Heritage Trek 
• Langtang Gosainkunda Lake Trek
• Helambu Circuit Trek
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• Jugal Himal Base Camp Trek
• Mera Peak Climbing
• Everest Three Peaks Climbing
• Mera Peak And Island Peak Climbing
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• Ama Dablam Expedition
• Mount Baruntse Expedition
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• Chitwan National Park 2N 3D Luxury Tour
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• Chitwan National Park 4N 5D Luxury Tour
• Chitwan Tiger Tops Safari 3N 4D Tour
• Chitwan National Park 2N 3D Budget Tour
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• Bardiya National Park 2N 3D Tour
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• Mountain Flight Everest Experience
• Everest Experience Trekking Tour
• Family Holiday Tour Package In Nepal
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• Discover Nepal Tour
• Chitwan National Park Tour
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• Muktinath Temple Tour
• Khotang Halesi Tour
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• One Day Trisuli River Rafting
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• Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
• Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
• Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour
• Luxury Holiday Tour In Nepal
• Upper Mustang Jeep Ride Tour
• Everest Base Camp Trek With Helicopter Return

Adventure Activities Awaits You

Old Buddhist Stupa at Upper Dolpo Nepal.

• Trekking & Hiking >>
• Off The Beaten Track >>
• Upper Dolpo Trek >>

The Upper Dolpo Trek in Nepal is a captivating and unique trekking experience. It offers remote and untouched wilderness, stunning landscapes, and a chance to explore the Shey Phoksundo National Park. The region is known for its rich biodiversity and the sacred Phoksundo Lake. Additionally, trekkers can immerse themselves in the local Tibetan culture and witness traditional ceremonies. The trek is less crowded, providing a peaceful and authentic adventure. It is challenging but rewarding, with high passes and a sense of accomplishment. It's a remote trekking destination in Nepal that requires mandatory camping arrangements and the presence of support staff. The Upper Dolpo Trek is perfect for those seeking a distinct and off-the-beaten-path trekking experience .

Experience the Enchanting Upper Dolpo Trek through VHT Teams' Captivating Video

Fascinating Off the Beaten Path Trek

Upper Dolpo Trek is a fascinating "Off The Beaten Path" treks in Nepal in the tranquil, pristine, and mysterious regions of Upper Dolpo. Upper Dolpo Trek also treks around the majestic glacial lake, Shey Phoksundo, and visits Shey Gompa, one of the most famous monasteries of Nepal. Despite being one of the harder and longer treks with several camps above 4500 meters and several passes, the arid trans-Himalayan landscape and the daily hardships of locals leave the travelers in awe of Dolpo. It is also a spiritual trek as shamanistic Bon religion and Tibetan Buddhism dominate the entire region. Trekking to Upper Dolpo through the tough mountainous region of fortified villages, 'dzongs', turquoise lakes, sacred mountains, and high passes, susceptible to heavy snows which have isolated it from the rest of Nepal for much of the year. Isolated and unproductive lands have forced the locals to rely mostly on trade with Tibetans and the tradition still lives on today. Upper Dolpo Trekking passes through these very villages that still serve as the trade hub of these ancient trade routes. Centuries-old monasteries, including, the famous Shey Gomba (referred to as Crystal Monastery in the book Snow Leopard by Peter Matthiessen), and unexplored and hidden valleys of Dolpo make the trek worth every minute of the hard trek in this wild part of the Himalayas of Nepal. Additionally, we encourage travelers to go through our blog on everything you need to know about Upper Dolpo Trekking in Nepal . It definitely gives you a better understanding and get prepared for this trek. 

Upper Dolpo Trekking Route.

There are several different ways to do Upper Dolpo Trek. Nevertheless, we follow the original clockwise route starting from Juphal and ending at Jomsom. There is not any place we are going to miss during our Upper Dolpo Trek, we comprise most of the spectacular and unique places in our journey to Upper Dolpo Trek. The most spectacular places like Stunning Shey Phoksundo Lake, Remote Shey Gompa and Crystal Mountain, Saldang Village home to Tibetan salt traders, Tinje Village, and Chharka Bhot connect us to Jomsom following the Great Himalayan Trail. This is one of the stunning routes we will follow on our Upper Dolpo Trekking journey.

What is the altitude of Upper Dolpo Trek?

Summary of Upper Dolpo Trek itinerary

Summary of Itinerary

• Days 1 - 4: Arrival in Kathmandu, Sightseeing and Trek Preparation, then fly to Nepalgunj,  Fly to Juphal Trek start.
• Days 5 - 24: Trek up to Upper Dolpo Camping Trek.
• Days 26 - 28: Travel back to Kathmandu via Pokhara, spare day, and depart for home.

Necessary permits for Upper Dolpo Trek

Trekking in Dolpo required several different permits, as a Dolpo trek defines lower Dolpo and Upper Dolpo. We will need Dolpo Special permits to trek Lower or Upper Dolpo. Both Lower and Upper Dolpo restricted area entry permits issued by the Department of Immigration of Nepal through a government-authorized company. Other than Dolpo restricted area entry permits we will need Shey Phoksundo National Park entry permits as well. Trekking with Visit Himalaya Treks, we take care of all necessary permits and paperwork.

Necessary Gears Required for Trekking

Upper Dolpo trek is demanding treks, in more than 2 weeks’ time we will be trekking over 4000 meters. Also, we will be crossing five high passes above 5000 meters. So, we will need warm gear for trekking to Upper Dolpo. Please visit the given link for the gear list details necessary for this Trek. 

FAQ for Trekking to Upper Dolpo

What ethnic people and cultures you'll be able to know.

The most interesting part of the Upper Dolpo Trek is that we get to witness the cultural difference of the people of different regions, centuries ago.  Dolpo the high mountainous settlement holds the nomads that migrated to the region ages ago. Similarly, the people of Mustang also called Lopas also migrated from Tibet almost during the same time. Still, the contrast between the people of these two regions in the past and in recent times is so huge in terms of civilization; it is an interesting discovery.

How much does the Upper Dolpo Trek Cost?

Visit Himalaya Treks offers 28 days of Upper Dolpo Trek at $5600, arriving in Kathmandu to depart from Kathmandu. It's inclusive of Accommodation, domestic flights, necessary permits, and local land transport trips. And we operate this Trek package at a minimum group size of 2+ clients. This trekking route also called the high route of Upper Dolpo involves 22 days of real trekking over Inner Dolpo. Our Upper Dolpo trek starts from Jhupal and ends at Jomsom.

How difficult is the upper Dolpo Trek?

Upper Dolpo is one of the most demanding trekking destinations. Due to remoteness, it is quite challenging to trek Upper Dolpo. Trek to Upper Dolpo, you will need to be familiar with high-altitude treks or you will require 5000 meters of previous trekking experience. We don’t recommend first-time travelers trekking to Upper Dolpo because it is a long and high-altitude trek. We will spend about two weeks’ time above 4000 meters. During our Upper Dolpo trekking journey, we will cross several 5000 meters high passes, Kang la Pass 5345 meters, Sela Bhanjyang 5075 meters, Chharka La Pass 5030 meters, Niwar Pass 5130 meters and Sangda la Pass 5300 meters. At high altitudes, treks involve a lot of uphills and downhill and each day we will walk about 9 to 14 kilometers and a typical day walk will be 6 to 8 hours.

How do I travel to Dolpo?

First, you have to get to Nepalgunj by flight. Domestic airlines operate daily flights to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu. It is about 40 minutes by flight or up to 12 hours by bus. Also, car rides can connect to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu. From Nepalgunj, you can fly to Juphal airstrip. There is not any direct flight to Juphal from Kathmandu, although expensive charter flights can be arranged from Pokhara.

When is the best time to trek Upper Dolpo?

The best time to do trekking in Nepal is March, April, and May in the spring season and October, November, and December in the Autumn season. But Every trekking destination is not the same, Dolpo district lies north of the Himalayas and is a rain shadow destination. Even in monsoon time, in June, July, and August very little rain receives in Upper Dolpo. We did trips to Dolpo before pre-monsoon like April and May, and after the monsoon months of September and October. We found the very best time to trek upper Dolpo from Mid-September to the end of October. Because tracks are clear, High Passes are open so the success rate is 99%. So, I would say the best time to Trek Upper Dolpo is the month of September and October is the best month.

Is it possible to do Lodge Trek in Upper Dolpo?

Upper Dolpo trek is not set with commercial infrastructures, most of the local villages are still unique and far away from modern standard lifestyles. So, it is nearly impossible to trek Upper Dolpo staying at Lodge or Tea House. However, in some of the popular villages like Saldang village, it is possible to stay with a local house and sleep in their house. We don’t recommend tea houses, or lodge trek to upper Dolpo because of the lack of available lodges and tea houses.

Is Camping necessary for Trek?

The largest district of Nepal, Dolpo is connected with Tibet on the north border. Dolpo district is protected by Shey Phoksundo National Park, the largest National Park it’s a trans-Himalayan National Park. Dolpo is one of the remote and authentic destinations, there is no available tea house, Lodges along the upper Dolpo trekking route. For most of the trekking route we will need to have camp and we need to supply Camping gear while trekking to Upper Dolpo. Upper Dolpo Treks provide a real camping experience, visiting pure Tibetan’s style un-changes village, typical lifestyle, and rich Buddhist Culture are the highlights of Upper Dolpo Trek.

Shey Phoksundo National Park in Dolpo Nepal

Shey Phoksundo National Park was established in 1984, Country's largest National Park is located in the mid-western region of Nepal which covers the Dolpo and Mugu district in Nepal. It's name is derived from the 12th-century Shey Monastery and the deepest Lake in Nepal. This Shey Phoksundo National Park has a diversity of landscapes and ranks among the most scenic Montane parks in the world. Much of it lies north of the Himalayan crest ranging in elevation from 2,130 m (6,990 ft) in the southeast near Ankhe to 6,883 m (22,582 ft) at the summit of Kanjiroba Himal at the southern edge of the Tibetan Plateau.

More Resources about Dolpo.

• The Best Time for Upper Dolpo Trekking in Nepal.
• Everything you need to know about Upper Dolpo Trekking in Nepal.
• The Eight Hidden Facts About Upper Dolpo Nepal.
• Fascinating Facts About Upper Dolpo Nepal.

Upper Dolpo Trekking Video.

Upper dolpo trek detail itinerary.

A representative from Visit Himalaya Treks Pvt. Ltd. trekking with the company’s display board will greet you outside the arrival terminal and transfer you to your Hotel. 

A Full day guided tour to several of historical and spiritual attractions enlisted under the World Heritage Sites. The trek leader will meet the group for a meeting and provide a detailed briefing on the trek. All the required information regarding the trek would be provided. 

The mornings can be used to carry out some last minute re-checks as we have an half an hour afternoon flight to Nepalgunj. Nepalgunj is very hot and humid compared to Kathmandu and it is better to have some insect repellent creams nearby. 

An early morning 45 minutes flight lands us on Juphal and after a brief sorting and introduction of our crew, the trek finally starts. The trek heads toward Dunai, administrative headquarter of Dolpo, and then start to follow Phoksundo River towards North in the valley and stops at Raktang for the first night in camps. (5 hours) 

The trek continues to head north of the valley and will keep doing so for most of the trek till Saldang. After passing many small settlements of lower Dolpo, the trek slowly enters Dolpo Valley and reaches Amchi Hospital. Amchi are the traditional doctors of the region. (6 hours) 

The trek still continues to move forward in the valley and also follows the Phoksundo River all the way to Ringmo. Ringo is the last big settlement before the trek enters the more wildly and remote aresas of Dolpo. The lake is only a few minute walk away from Ringmo. (4 hours) 

The day can be used to explore around the Phoksundo Lake. 

The trek moves to the other side of the Phoksundo Lake and then starts to follow Phoksundo Khola for the rest of the day. This day also marks the treks entry into the upper valley of Dolpo and provides a brief look into the wilderness and remoteness that awaits in the valley ahead. The campsite is also by the banks of the river. (7 hours) 

Slowly and gradually, the elevation increases throughout the day and reaches the bottom of Kang La, first of the many passes of the trek. The camp has been mentioned in the bestselling book of Peter Mathiesson, ‘The Snow Leopard’. The name Snowfield Camp to the campsite comes from the same book. (7 hours) 

An early start is followed by a long uphill to the top of Kang La. Equally tiring downhill leads to the bottom of the river and rest of the day is spent following the river. The day ends at Shey Gompa, also famous by the name Crystal Monastery. (6-7 hours) 

The day is spent exploring around the village and can also be use to visit a nearby monastery on a top of cliff. The visit to the monastery would take couple of hours for the round trip. 

Another early start and a long steep climb to the top of Sela Bhanjyang is rewarded with views of Mustang Valley and mountains of Tibet and the Kanjiroba Range. A drop again leads to a river and a more easy terrain in afternoon finally leads to Namgung. (5-6 hours) 

A steep climb for the most of morning ends at Saldang. Saldang is one of biggest settlements of the region. Ironically, this one of the most remote village of country is home to one of the biggest star of the country. Saldang is home of Thinle, the main character of the academy award nominated movie ‘Himalaya’. (5-6 hours) 

The day starts with a climb and changes into a descent later in the morning as the trail drops once again to a river. Afternoon walk is similar as the trek first climbs to Khoma La (4565 meters) and then drops down to Khoma Gaon. Gaon in Nepali means village. (6-7 hours) 

The trail drops to the river and follows the river for most part of the day. Yet another drop follows a climb to a top of a ridge and ends at a green valley of Shimen. A brief walk after Shimen leads to Mendo. (6-7 hours) 

The trek continues to follow the river towards south and passes through small villages, chortens and mane walls before reaching Tinje Gaon. The village was also one of the major points of ancient Tibetan trade route. (6 hours) 

An easy trail in the morning starts the trek and continues to head south of the valley. Later in the day, the trail starts to undulate and passes through narrow gulleys before reaching the wide valleys of Rapka. (6-7 hours) 

Another early start and yet another pass makes the day one of the longer days of trek. After crossing Chharkha La, a long descent finally ends at Chharka. (7-8 hours) 

The day can be used as rest day to prepare for the final few passes of the trek. 

The trail undulates and many rivers are crossed on suspension bridges throughout the day towards the south of the valley. The trek keeps heading south of valley for most of the latter stages of trek. A final climb leads to Norbulung ending the day. (6-7 hours) 

Once again the trek starts to gain elevation as the trek now enters the final stages. Few passes separates Dolpo region from Kali Gandaki Valley and Sangda La is one of them. The day’s trek ends at the bottom of Sangda La. (6-7 hours) 

The day to Sangda Phedi includes crossing of two passes and is one of the hardest day of the trek. The trail climbs up Niwar Pass and then crosses Sangda La and offers stunning views of the valleys in front for all the hard work. Long descent finally ends at Sangda Phedi. (7-8 hours) 

The trek enters into descent mode and passes several small rivers throughout the day. More mountains of Kali Gandaki Valley starts to open up near Lower Sangda and the region also have huge number of Blue Sheeps.(6 hours) 

A small ascent in the morning soon turns into gradual drop and turns steeper with the day. This final descent also provides the view of Kali Gandaki Valley as the day ends at Dhagarjun. (6-7 hours) 

The downhill continues as the trek enters Kali Gandaki Valley and drops all the way down to river. The trek now continues on the dusty secondary roads following the river south towards Jomsom. Jomsom is administrative headquarters of Mustand and is a busy town and marks the end of adventure. (4 hours) 

An early morning flight to Pokhara is followed by another flight to Kathmandu and a free day at Kathmandu.

A leisure day in Kathmandu which can used for an early morning mountain flights to Everest or can extended into further more tours to Nagarkot, Dhulikhel etc. Further adventure activities like rock climbing, hiking, biking around the Kathmandu valley with bungee jumping, rafting near the valleys can be done on this free day. (This is also spare day in case of cancellation of flights) 

A representative from Visit Himalaya Treks Pvt. Ltd. will check your flight tickets and transfer you to the airport before two hours from your flight with a hope of seeing you again in the future. 

Cost Includes

• Airport arrival and departure service.
• Accommodation in (2 in sharing room) in Kathmandu at 3-star standard levels Hotel with breakfast,
• Kathmandu – Nepalgunj -  Juphal and Jomsom – Pokhara  – Kathmandu domestic airfare.
• Shey-Phoksundo national park permits and Trekkers information management system (TIMS)
• Dolpo special permits (Upper Dolpo special permits cost $500 for 10 days valid and after 10 days $50 per day which is included in the cost)
• Experience Government license holder trekking guide, cook, and supporter porters.
• All necessary land transport for Cook staff and porters.
• Tented  Accommodation during the trek, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including tea and coffee while on the trek, serve by our trekking cook staff.
• Dining tent, Table, chairs, toilet tent, and sleeping mattress. 
• Accommodation, food, salary, and insurance, for the Guide cook, staff, and Porters.
• All necessary cooking gear, and cooking fuel.
• If need a down jacket, sleeping bag, walking pole, or duffel bag, we will provide it without cost.
• Medicine kit (first aid kit)
• Government taxes and service charges.

Cost Excludes

• Nepal entry Visa Fee.
• Personal travel insurance (Compulsory)
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
• Mineral water, beer, coca cola, personal expenses such as telephone, laundry, bar bills, personal tips, etc.

Cost & Date

• Group Journey
• Personalized Journey

Start Dates are your arrival date in Nepal and End Dates are the returning date from Nepal.

The set departure dates listed are specially quoted and specified for group joining option. Let us know if the set departure dates are not suitable for you- another dates which are suitable for you can certainly be added by us.

Upcoming Trip Departure

• Guaranteed - Trip is Guaranteed to run
• Available - Trip is available to run if minimum group size is filled
• Limited - Only few space available
• Booking Closed - Maximum group size is filled

Check Available Dates

Looking for a personalized experience? We organize a privately guided trip designed to fit your taste and interest. Please fill out the form below to get started.

Reviews ( 4 Reviews For This Package )

Please wait..., barbara sophie, from - zermatt, switzerland.

Lower and Dolpo Trek !!! Great Experience with Visit Himalaya treks.

If you plan a trek off or on the beaten track. You found a competent partner in Visit Himalaya. Great thanks to the office specially Rajan for his help organising my Dolpo trek. His generosity and expertise made it possible. Also to my wonderful guide Dukpa Sherpa. His kindness, care and excellent judgment made the trip smooth running in difficult situation. Your respect and love for your people, culture and land is inspiring. Also a big t4hank you to Ishwar and his team for the generous sharing of knowledge and assistance in Nepalgundji and Jumla. Visit Himalaya is a competent and trustworthy company with excellent staff. Dukpa Sherpa you want have as trekking partner. Anytime again. September / October - 2018.

Manuela Muller, From - Switzerland

Lower and Upper Dolpo Camping trek with Visit Himalaya Treks

What an experience and just amazing time we spent on our trek in lower and upper Dolpo! It is not just the impressive landscape and the inspiring culture we discovered in this remote area, but also the good spirit of our crew that made our trekking unforgettable! And we don't like to call it our crew because we became a family in those 26 days we spent together. Everything was very well organised by Visit Himalaya Treks even though the airport at the starting point was closed due to construction. The rearrangements gave us the possibility to do the trekking the other way round. This made it more challenging as the first two passes over 5000 meters came quickly. But our caretaking and open-hearted crew supported us in this challenge and celebrated with us the top of the pass of 5550 meters with cheerings and heartily embracements. These special moments, the awesome encounters with the local people of Dolpo, as well as the fascinating nature made this trip to be a unique experience with many great memories to take back home! Many thanks to all who were on the trek with us and special thanks to Himal and Visit Himalaya Treks! Oct - 2017.

Jennifer Ebling, From - Switzerland

Lower and Upper Dolpo  Camptrekking

Off the beaten trek into the remote area of Dolpo...because of the closed airport in Juphal Visit Himalaya Treks adapted our initerary and we did the trek the other way round. This is more challenging, but we made it also thanks to the great staff we had with us! Our trekking was once more an unforgetable experience: an amazing time in a remote area with a beautiful landscape, with a fascinating culture and inspiring people and we just had a well organized trek with an icredible friendly and care taking nepali team that became our family! Visit Himalay Treks fulfills your individual needs, takes care of the challenges and risks, and meets their clients as well as their staff with respect and fairness! Jennifer Ebling from Switzerland.

Gilles Herant, Joshua Raffaelle & Samantha Hellen, From France

Lower and Upper Dolpo Trek (juphal-jomsom)

Good experience with the company, few specifics we rushed into and should have discussed more thoroughly. We ran into a few hiccups in the begging, as you do. However, our guide Pashu Ram got it all sorted and we continued with a great trip. The team were fantastic from our guide to our two porters! Look forward to trekking with them again! October – 2018.

We always try to be flexible to design the trip itinerary for our client’s needs. However, if you are not convinced as our suggested itinerary then off-course you are always welcome to customize or change the trip itinerary.

Holiday should never be about making it to the final point quickly. Along your trek, we can add days at your request with additional costs to cover guides, porters, accommodation, and food.

An average physical fitness should be maintained prior to booking a trek. Any sort of illness or recent medical problems should be mentioned while booking a trip. Most of our itineraries are prepared to give you maximum time to acclimatize and pace-setting on the treks would be done according to your convenience. If you are having regular medication then tell us before the trip started which would be better for us to give you the physical feedback.

Our main concern is your safety. We never compromised on your safety during the Trekking and all our guides are properly trained and well equipped to take care of our client's safety even in remote areas as well.

There would be always back support in case of an emergency situation like severe high-altitude sickness or accident (which is least expected), you will be sent to the nearest hospital, if possible, otherwise rescued by a helicopter and sent you to the hospital as soon as possible. Since you are entirely liable for all the expenses incurred for the use of such emergency services, please make sure that your travel insurance covers both- medical and emergency evacuation costs.

It is not a problem at all because in this trek we will supply most of the foods from the nearest store and remaining foods we buy from Locals that mean most of the time we served vegetarian food as well and our camping cook and guide will take care as well.

We use standard quality of (Camping Gears) like Clients tents (3 men tents for couple and two men tent for single), dining tents,  Shower Tent, Toilet Tent, staff tend thick mattress, etc.  Also, we care for our staff and provide them with proper equipment for the camping trek. You will also be requested to have the proper gear for your personal use which will be suggested while confirming the trip.

While during the camping trek it is really difficult to find the place to charge gadget somehow we will manage to charge if we stay closed by village otherwise we have to take portable solar panel to carry with us and charge our gadgets. 

Now a day’s most of the areas has been covered by cell phone network connection. However, in this trek, we always send satellite phones along with our guide so you can easily be in touch with your family.

Yes, either you can store at the same hotel as you stayed or we can store your goods with us safely in our office free of cost.

This is a difficult thing to gauge. We have seen everything from USD 25 to USD 900 per person for guides and porters. Tipping is not required, but a small gesture of thanks to your guides and local porters. The level of the tip should reflect the level of satisfaction from and personal involvement with your guide. However, we recommend you to spend a minimum of 10% of your total trip cost for tipping the entire local staff.

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Upper Dolpo Trekking information

Dolpo trek in nepal.

• The Upper Dolpo Trek is a remote and challenging trekking adventure located in the Dolpa region of Nepal. It is renowned for its pristine and untouched landscapes, ancient Tibetan culture, and unique Buddhist traditions. Here is some information to help you understand the Upper Dolpo Trek:

Permits For Upper Dolpo Trek Duni to Dolpo Dunai

• The Upper Dolpo region falls under the restricted area of Nepal. To trek in this region, you need to obtain special permits: the Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, the Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit, and the Dolpo Development Fund Fee. These permits are usually organized by trekking agencies, and you must be accompanied by a licensed guide.

Duration of Upper Dolpo trek via Kangla and Jyangtala pass Dunai

• The Upper Dolpo Trek is a long and challenging trek that typically takes around 25 to 28 days to complete. The duration may vary depending on the specific itinerary and the pace of the trek.

Trekking Itinerary of Upper Dolpo trek from Dunai to Dunaioutline:

• 01): Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj.
• 02): Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,475 meters/8,120 feet) and start trekking.
• 03): Trek through remote villages like Dunai, Ankhe, and Sulighat.
• 04) : Reach Phoksundo Lake (3,611 meters/11,849 feet), one of the highlights of the trek.
• 05): Trek through Shey Phoksundo National Park, crossing high passes like Kang La Pass (5,350 meters/17,192 feet).
• 06) : Explore the ancient villages of Ringmo and Dho Tarap.
• 07): Trek to the Tibetan Buddhist monastery of Saldang and then to the remote village of Yangze.
• 08): Return trek to Juphal and fly back to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj.

Landscape and Culture in Upper Dolpo Trek

• The Upper Dolpo region is known for its stunning landscapes, including deep gorges, rugged valleys, barren hills, and snow-capped peaks. The trek also offers a unique cultural experience, as the region is inhabited by people of Tibetan origin. You’ll have the opportunity to witness their traditional lifestyle, monasteries, and festivals.

Altitude and Difficulty Upper Dolpo trek Dunai to Dunai

• The Upper Dolpo Trek involves trekking in high-altitude regions, with some passes reaching over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). The trek is considered challenging due to its duration, remote location, and steep ascents and descents. Proper acclimatization and physical fitness are essential for a successful and safe trek.

Accommodation and Facilities Upper Dolpo trek from Dunai to Dunai

• Accommodation along the trekking route is camping. Teahouses provide basic facilities, including meals and lodging. However, the availability of teahouses is limited in some remote sections of the trek, and a camping trek is better required. It’s important to carry essential trekking and camping gear.

Best Time to Trek to go Upper Dolpo trek

• The best time to undertake the Upper Dolpo Trek is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons. These months offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and pleasant temperatures for trekking. The region is not recommended for trekking during winter (December to February) due to harsh weather and heavy snowfall.

Upper Dolpo trek to Jomsom

• Trekking from Upper Dolpo to Jomsom is a challenging and adventurous route that takes you through the remote and stunning landscapes of the Dolpa region in Nepal. This trek combines the beauty of Upper Dolpo with the popular Annapurna and Mustang region, ending in Jomsom. Here is some information about trekking from Upper Dolpo to Jomsom:

Permits for Upper Dolpo to Jomsom

• Since Upper Dolpo is a restricted area, you will need permits such as the Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit, and Dolpo Development Fund Fee. Additionally, as you move towards Jomsom, you will also need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP ) and Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card.

Duration and Itinerary Dolpo to Jomsom

• The trek from Upper Dolpo to Jomsom is a long and demanding journey that usually takes around 24 to 38 days. The actual duration can vary depending on the specific itinerary and the trekking pace. Here’s a general outline of the trekking itinerary:

How you pass during the Upper Dolpo Region

• 01): Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, and then to Juphal (2,475 meters/8,120 feet), the starting point of the Upper Dolpo trek.
• 02): Trek through remote villages like Dunai, Tarakot, and Musi Gaon.
• 03): Reach Phoksundo Lake (3,611 meters/11,849 feet), a stunning turquoise lake and one of the highlights of the trek.
• 04): Cross high passes such as Kang La Pass (5,350 meters/17,192 feet) and descend into the Mustang region.
• 05): Trek through beautiful villages like Chharka, Muktinath, and Kagbeni.
• 06): Reach Jomsom (2,720 meters/8,920 feet), a major town in the Annapurna region, and the endpoint of the trek.
• 07): Landscape and Culture: The trek from Upper Dolpo to Jomsom offers a diverse range of landscapes, including deep gorges, alpine meadows, barren hills, and dramatic mountain vistas. You’ll pass through remote villages, encounter the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture, and witness ancient monasteries along the way.

Need Guide and Agency

• This is a remote and demanding trek, it is highly recommended to hire a licensed trekking agency with experienced guides and support staff to ensure safety and logistical support throughout the journey.

How Much Does it Cost for Upper Dolpo Trek?

• The cost of the Upper Dolpo trek can vary depending on several factors such as the duration of the trek, the services provided, the size of the trekking group, and the level of comfort you prefer. Here are some cost considerations for the Upper Dolpo trek:

Trekking Agency in Nepal

• It is highly recommended to hire a licensed trekking agency for the Upper Dolpo trek. They can assist with obtaining permits, provide experienced guides and porters, arrange transportation, and handle logistics. The cost of the trek will generally include the agency’s fee, staff salaries, and administrative expenses.

Permits for Lower and Upper Dolpo region

• The Upper Dolpo trek requires special permits, including the Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit, and Dolpo Development Fund Fee. The costs of these permits can vary depending on the nationality and the duration of the trek.

Food and Water During the Dolpo Trek

• Meals are generally provided at the teahouses or lodges, and the cost of food is usually included in the overall trek cost if you book with our trekking agency. However, beverages, snacks, and bottled water are not typically included and should be budgeted separately.

Transportation During the Dolpo trek

• The cost of transportation to and from the starting point of the trek, such as flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Juphal, should be considered. Depending on your preferences, you may choose to fly or take ground transportation.

Equipment Trekking Gear for Upper Dolpo trek

• If you don’t have your own trekking gear, you may need to rent or purchase equipment such as a sleeping bag, trekking poles, a down jacket, and other necessary items. The cost of renting or buying gear should be factored into your budget.

Cost for Upper Dolpo Camping Trek

• It is important to note that the Upper Dolpo trek is generally more expensive compared to popular treks in the Annapurna or Everest regions due to its remote location and restricted permits. The cost can range from USD 2,300 to USD 4,700 or more per person for a 25-38 day trek, depending on the factors mentioned above.
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