Upper Dolpo Trek - 21 Days
Upper Dolpo Trek - 21 Days

Upper Dolpo Trek - 21 Days

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Trip at a Glance
Duration21 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude5010m
Group Size2-16 pax
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking and Adventure
Best TimeSpring and Autumn

The Upper Dolpo Trek is a remote and adventurous trekking route in the far northwest of Nepal. Known for its dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and minimal tourist traffic, this trek offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Nepal’s most isolated regions.Upper Dolpo is located in the Dolpa District, north of the Dhaulagiri mountain range and near the Tibetan border. It is one of the most isolated and least visited regions in Nepal.

The trek features diverse landscapes, including high-altitude deserts, lush valleys, rugged mountains, and beautiful alpine meadows. Explore Tibetan-influenced cultures and traditions, visit ancient monasteries, and interact with local ethnic groups like the Dolpo people. One of the highlights of the trek is the stunning Shey Phoksundo Lake, a turquoise alpine lake surrounded by rugged mountains and forested slopes.

Trekking Route:

Fly from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu. Explore Nepalgunj, a bustling city in the southwestern region of Nepal.Begin the trek with a descent through terraced fields to reach the Bheri River and then to Dunai.Follow the trail along the Bheri River, passing through small villages and lush forests.Continue through dense forests and steep trails with occasional views of waterfalls.

Climb up to the ridge to get the first view of Phoksundo Lake, then descend to the lake.Explore the stunning turquoise lake and the nearby Ringmo village.Visit the Tshowa Gompa, a 900-year-old Bon monastery on the lake’s eastern shore.Follow the trail along the Phoksundo Lake and then head north along the Phoksundo Khola (river).The trail becomes steeper and more challenging as you head towards the high-altitude passes.

Cross the Kang La Pass, which offers stunning panoramic views, then descend to the legendary Shey Gompa.Cross the Saldang La Pass and descend to the Namgung village.Follow a high and scenic trail to Yangze Gompa, an ancient and isolated monastery.Return to Saldang and then trek along the Nam Khong Khola to reach Sibu.Gradual ascent to the base camp of Jeng La Pass.

Cross the Jeng La Pass, with stunning views of Dhaulagiri and other peaks, then descend to Tokyu Gaon.A short and pleasant trek to Dho Tarap, a beautiful village with a mix of Bon and Buddhist cultures.Follow the Tarap River through a narrow gorge with several river crossings.Continue descending along the Tarap River, passing through scenic landscapes and small settlements.

Follow the trail along the Barbung River to reach the ancient fortress town of Tarakot. Continue along the river trail to return to Dunai.A short and easy trek back to Juphal. Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj and then to Kathmandu.Transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu.

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure that combines physical challenge with profound cultural insights, the Upper Dolpo Trek stands as one of the most rewarding trekking experiences in Nepal.

Highlights

  • Upper Dolpo is one of the most remote and least developed regions in Nepal,
  • The trek is less frequented by tourists, providing an authentic and undisturbed trekking experience.
  • Experience the warm hospitality of the Dolpo people by staying in local Lodge
  • Enjoy Traditional meals and engage in cultural exchanges.
  • Visit important pilgrimage sites, meditate in serene surroundings
  • Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the region
Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all

Arrive in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel, trek preparation.

Meals: DinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Flying from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj is the quickest and most convenient way to reach the gateway to the remote regions of western Nepal. Enjoy scenic views of the Himalayas and the Terai region. Domestic flights in Nepal are generally comfortable but may have limited in-flight services.Explore Nepalgunj.Overnight Stay in Hotel At Nepalgunj.

Max Altitude: 150 m Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 1 hourDistance: 366 km

Enjoy the scenic flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal. The flight may offer views of the Himalayas and the remote landscapes of Dolpo. Begin your trek from Juphal, which is the starting point of your trek into the Dolpo region.The trek to Dunai follows a trail that descends through lush forests and scenic landscapes. You’ll pass through several small villages and cross suspension bridges over rivers.Overnight Stay in Lodge At Dunai.

Max Altitude: 2140 m Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 45 minute,3-4 hoursDistance: 150 km,12km

The trek begins with a gradual ascent out of Dunai, passing through terraced fields and following the banks of the Dolpo Khola (river).You'll cross several suspension bridges over rivers and streams. The trail offers views of lush forests, fertile fields, and traditional villages. You’ll pass through beautiful landscapes with a mix of river valleys and hilly terrain.The trek includes passing through small villages where you can experience local culture and lifestyle.Overnight Stay in Chhepka.

Max Altitude: 2838 m Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 20-22 km

The trail starts with a gradual ascent through dense forests of pine and rhododendron. You’ll pass through several small villages and terraced fields. You’ll cross several suspension bridges over rivers and streams.Enjoy stunning views of waterfalls, and the surrounding mountains. The trail provides picturesque landscapes with a mix of forest and river valley terrain.As you ascend, the terrain becomes more rugged with steeper sections. The altitude gain is gradual, allowing for better acclimatization.Overnight Stay in Jharna hotel.

Max Altitude: 3370 m Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 16-18 km

The trail starts with a gradual ascent through forests, crossing several suspension bridges over rivers. The path gradually opens up to offer views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.Enjoy stunning views of waterfalls and lush vegetation as you trek along the riverside. The trail passes through the village of Ringmo, which is a good spot to rest and experience local culture .Phoksundo lake is situated in a valley surrounded by high cliffs and snow-capped peaks, offering dramatic and stunning views.Overnight Stay In Lodge At Phoksundo Lake.

Max Altitude: 3611 m Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 18-20 km

An acclimatization day is crucial when trekking in high-altitude areas like Shey Phoksundo Lake to prevent altitude sickness and ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. Take a short, easy hike to a higher vantage point for better acclimatization. Hike to a viewpoint overlooking the lake or the surrounding mountains.Explore the area around Shey Phoksundo Lake at a comfortable pace.Walk along the lakeshore, enjoy the views, and visit local monasteries like the Tshowa (Bon Monastery).

Begin your descent from the lake. The trail starts with a gentle slope, descending through scenic landscapes. Enjoy views of the lake and surrounding mountains as you start the descent. The trail passes through lush forests and terraced fields. You’ll pass through several small villages or settlements along the way, where you can experience local culture and possibly find a place for a rest stop. Overnight Stay in Lodge At Phoksundo Khola.

Max Altitude: 2700 m Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 4-5 hoursDistance: 12-15 km

Begin the ascent from the river valley. The trail starts with a gradual climb, passing through lush forests and terraced fields.As you ascend, the landscape changes from river valleys to more rugged and mountainous terrain. You’ll pass through alpine meadows and sparse forests.The climb is steady but can be steep in sections. The trail switchbacks up the mountainside, offering excellent views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.Overnight Stay in Lodge At Phoksundo Bhanjyang.

Max Altitude: 3600 m Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 18-20 km

Begin the ascent to Kang La Pass. The climb is steep and challenging, with rocky terrain and high-altitude conditions.The pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, valleys, and the rugged landscape of the Dolpo region.After crossing Kang La Pass, you will descend into the valley leading to Shey Gompa. The descent can be steep and requires careful navigation.Enjoy stunning views of the landscape, including glaciers, alpine meadows, and the distant peaks of the Himalayas.Overnight Stay in Shey Gompa.

Max Altitude: 4160 m Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 17-18 km

Begin your trek from Shey Gompa with a gradual ascent through a scenic valley. The trail is well-defined and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The route involves crossing a high pass (Shey La or Saldang La), which stands at around 5,010 meters (16,437 feet). The ascent to the pass is steep and challenging, but the panoramic views from the top are rewarding.After crossing the pass, the trail descends into the Namgung Valley. The descent can be steep and rocky in places, requiring careful navigation.Overnight Stay in Lodge At Namgung.

Max Altitude: 4430 m Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 12-13 km

Begin the trek from Namgung, following a well-marked trail. The path initially ascends through the arid landscape typical of the Upper Dolpo region. The trail offers breathtaking views of the barren yet beautiful Dolpo landscape. You will see traditional Tibetan-style villages, terraced fields, and grazing yaks.Along the way, you may pass through small settlements where you can interact with the local people and experience their unique culture and lifestyle.Overnight Stay in Saldang.

Max Altitude: 3770 m Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 4-5 hoursDistance: 10-12 km

Begin your trek from Saldang, following a trail that heads east. The initial part of the trek involves a gentle ascent through a high-altitude desert landscape. The trail offers stunning views of the arid and rugged terrain of Upper Dolpo. You’ll pass through small villages and terraced fields, with the chance to see local wildlife such as blue sheep and yaks. Along the way, you might encounter local villagers, offering a glimpse into the traditional Tibetan lifestyle and culture of the region.

Max Altitude: 4200 m Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 4-5 hoursDistance: 9-10 km

Begin your trek from Yangze Gompa, starting with a descent from the monastery. The initial part of the trail involves traversing rocky terrain and crossing small streams.The trail descends through rugged terrain, offering beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. You’ll experience a variety of landscapes, including high-altitude deserts and lush valleys.The primary feature of this segment is the descent from Yangze Gompa to Sibu. Overnight Stay in Lodge At sibu.

Max Altitude: 3430 m Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 18-20 km

Begin your trek from Sibu, starting with a descent through the rocky and sometimes steep terrain. The trail may involve crossing several small streams and descending through a variety of landscapes.As you descend, the landscape transitions from the high-altitude desert of Upper Dolpo to greener, more fertile valleys. You’ll pass through small villages and terraced fields. The trail is predominantly downhill, with some flat and gentle ascending sections.Overnight Stay in Lodge At Dunai.

Max Altitude: 2140 m Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 6-8 hoursDistance: 20-22 km

Begin your trek from Dunai, following the trail that heads east toward Juphal. The initial part of the trek involves crossing the Bheri River and navigating through the valley.The trail offers views of the lower Dolpo landscape, with terraced fields, traditional villages, and river valleys. You’ll pass through some forested areas and cross small streams.The path is mostly a gradual ascent from Dunai to Juphal. The trail is well-trodden and relatively easy to navigate.Overnight Stay in Lodge At Juphal.

Max Altitude: 2475 m Accommodation: LodgeBreakfast,Lunch,DinnerDuration: 3-4 hoursDistance: 8-10 km

Flying from Juphal to Nepalgunj is a key segment of the journey when concluding the Upper Dolpo trek. From Nepalgunj, you will continue your journey to Kathmandu, typically via a 1-hour flight.This flight marks the transition from the remote trekking region of Dolpo to the more developed area of Nepalgunj, where you will catch a connecting flight to Kathmandu.Overnight Stay in Hotel At Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1400 m Meals: Breakfast,DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 30-45 minute,1 hourDistance: 150-160 km,250-270 km

Free day in Kathmandu for relaxation, shopping, or exploring any missed sights. Final preparations for departure.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home or onward travel.

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Cost Details
Includes
  • Restricted Area Permit: Required for Upper Dolpo.
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit: Entry fee for the national park.
  • Domestic Flights: Round-trip flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Nepalgunj to Juphal.
  • Ground Transportation: Airport transfers and possibly transport to and from the starting point of the trek.
  • Teahouses/Lodges: Accommodation during the trek, often in basic lodges or teahouses.
  • Full Board Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek.
  • Experienced Guide: A licensed experienced trekking guide.
  • Porters: Typically one porter for every two trekkers to carry luggage.
  • Tents: Sleeping tents, dining tents, and kitchen tents where required
  • Sleeping Bags and Mats: Sometimes provided if camping.
  • First Aid Kit: Basic medical supplies carried by the guide.
  • Oxygen Cylinder: For emergency use in high altitudes (if included in the package).
  • Guide and Porter Insurance: Covers the staff accompanying you during the trek.
  • 3 nights standard hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • All airport pick up and drop service 
  • Government taxes and service charge
Excludes
  • Flights to and from Nepal: International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
  • Nepal Entry Visa: Obtainable upon arrival at Kathmandu airport or in advance.
  • Lunch and Dinner: Meals not included in the trekking package while in Kathmandu or Nepalgunj.
  • Snacks and Beverages: Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and personal snacks.
  • Personal Gear: Trekking gear, clothing, and personal equipment.
  • Hot Showers: Available at some teahouses for an additional charge.
  • Comprehensive Insurance: Must cover high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation.
  • Tips for guides, porters, and other staff (expected but not mandatory).
  • Extra Nights: Costs for additional nights in Kathmandu due to early return or extended stay.
  • Souvenirs: Purchases made during the trek.
  • Wi-Fi and Charging Fees: Some teahouses may charge for Wi-Fi and charging electronic devices.
  • Health and Vaccinations: Any vaccinations or health checks required before travel.
FAQs

Upper Dolpo is a remote and culturally rich region in northwestern Nepal, near the Tibetan border. It is known for its rugged landscapes, ancient monasteries, and unique Tibetan Buddhist culture.

The trek is considered strenuous due to high altitudes, long days of walking, and remote terrain. Trekkers should have good physical fitness and prior trekking experience.

The best times are:

  • Spring (April to June): Clear skies, moderate temperatures, and blooming rhododendrons.
  • Autumn (September to November): Stable weather, clear views, and ideal trekking conditions.
  • Restricted Area Permit: Required for Upper Dolpo.
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit: Required for entry into the national park.
  • Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card: Usually required for trekking in Nepal.
  • Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj: A short domestic flight.
  • Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal: Another short flight, followed by a trek to the starting point, usually Dunai.
  • Shey Phoksundo Lake: A stunning turquoise lake.
  • Shey Gompa: An ancient monastery.
  • Remote Villages: Experience Tibetan Buddhist culture in villages like Ringmo, Saldang, and Namgung.
  • High Passes: Challenging passes like Kang La and Jeng La.
  • Teahouses/Lodges: Basic accommodations are available in most villages.
  • Camping: Required in more remote areas where tea houses and Lodges are unavailable.
  • Teahouse or Lodges Meals: Basic but nourishing meals, including Nepali dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, potatoes, and some Tibetan dishes.
  • Camping Meals: Prepared by trekking staff, including a variety of dishes to cater to different tastes.
  • Guide: Highly recommended due to the remote and complex terrain.
  • Porter: Helpful for carrying luggage, allowing you to trek more comfortably.
  • Clothing: Layered clothing for varying temperatures, waterproof jacket, thermal wear, gloves, hat, and sturdy trekking boots.
  • Gear: Sleeping bag, trekking poles, headlamp, water purification tablets, first aid kit, sunscreen, and personal toiletries.

Yes, due to the high altitudes, there is a risk of altitude sickness. It’s essential to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and ascend gradually.

  • Internet: Limited and often expensive in remote areas.
  • Mobile Coverage: Sparse and unreliable. Satellite phones may be used for emergencies.
  • Kang La Pass: At an altitude of approximately 5,360 meters (17,585 feet), it is the highest point on the trek.
  • Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially in monasteries and religious sites.
  • Photography: Ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious sites.
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