Call Us
+977-9861499035
If you’re looking for a truly remote and challenging trekking adventure in Nepal, then Upper Dolpo Trekking might be just what you’re looking for. Located in the far western region of Nepal, Upper Dolpo is a high-altitude, culturally and ecologically rich region that offers some of the most spectacular and unique trekking experiences in the world.
Upper Dolpo Trekking is a journey that will take you deep into the heart of the Himalayas, where you’ll be surrounded by towering peaks, pristine forests, and traditional Tibetan-style villages. The trek will take you through some of the most remote and untouched areas of Nepal, where you’ll have the chance to explore ancient monasteries, encounter friendly locals, and experience the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The trek starts from Juphal, which can be reached by a short flight from Kathmandu, and then heads towards the Phoksundo Lake, one of the most beautiful and pristine lakes in the world. From there, the trek leads to the Shey-Phoksundo National Park, where you’ll have the chance to see rare wildlife such as the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and musk deer. You’ll also get to explore ancient Buddhist monasteries, including the Shey Gompa, which is over 800 years old.
One of the highlights of the Upper Dolpo Trek is the chance to meet the friendly and hospitable Dolpo people, who have lived in the region for centuries. The Dolpo people are known for their unique culture and traditions, and you’ll have the chance to experience their way of life first-hand. You’ll also get to taste local delicacies, such as the yak cheese, and learn about their traditional medicine practices.
The Upper Dolpo Trek is a challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness and stamina. You’ll be trekking at high altitudes, where the air is thin, and the weather can be unpredictable. However, the rewards of this trek are unparalleled, with stunning landscapes, unique cultural experiences, and the chance to explore one of the most remote regions of Nepal.
If you’re planning to undertake the Upper Dolpo Trek, it’s recommended to go with an experienced guide or trekking agency. They can help you with the necessary permits, accommodation, and logistics, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
The Upper Dolpo Trek in Nepal is widely regarded as one of the most challenging treks in the country. Situated in the remote western region of Nepal, the trek takes you to some of the highest and most remote parts of the Himalayas, where the terrain is rugged and the weather can be unpredictable. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the difficulty level of the Upper Dolpo Trek and what you can expect along the way.
The Upper Dolpo Trek is a high-altitude trek, which means that you’ll be trekking at altitudes above 4,000 meters. This can be challenging for many trekkers, as the air at high altitudes is thin, and it can be difficult to breathe. Additionally, the terrain in the region is rugged and often steep, with many rocky and uneven paths. This makes the trek physically demanding and requires a good level of fitness and stamina.
The trek can take anywhere from 18 to 28 days, depending on the route you take and the pace at which you trek. During this time, you’ll be trekking for 6 to 8 hours a day, sometimes more, and will be carrying a backpack with all your essential items. This can add to the physical demands of the trek.
The weather in the Upper Dolpo region can also be challenging. The trek takes place in the monsoon season, which means that you can expect heavy rainfall and muddy paths. Additionally, temperatures can drop below freezing at night, which can be uncomfortable if you’re not adequately prepared.
Despite the challenges, the Upper Dolpo Trek is an incredibly rewarding experience. The trek takes you to some of the most remote and untouched parts of the Himalayas, where you’ll be surrounded by stunning landscapes, traditional Tibetan-style villages, and ancient Buddhist monasteries. The trek also provides an opportunity to meet the friendly and hospitable Dolpo people, who have lived in the region for centuries and have a unique culture and way of life.
Accommodation during the Upper Dolpo Trek in Nepal is a unique experience that will allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life. As the trek is situated in a remote and rugged region, the accommodation options are limited, but still offer a comfortable and authentic experience. During the trek, you’ll be staying in a mix of basic lodges, teahouses, and camping, which are run by the local community. These accommodations are clean and comfortable and offer a range of facilities such as shared bathrooms, hot showers, and communal dining areas.
If you’re planning on trekking in the Upper Dolpo region of Nepal, it’s important to know about the various permits that you’ll need to obtain. The Upper Dolpo Trek is located in a remote and restricted area of Nepal, which means that there are several permits and documents that you’ll need to obtain before embarking on the trek.
The first permit that you’ll need is the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) permit, which is required for all trekkers in Nepal. This permit is obtained through a trekking agency or through the Nepal Tourism Board and is used to keep a record of all trekkers in the region.
The second permit that you’ll need is the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), which is required for all trekkers entering the Upper Dolpo region. The RAP is issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and is only issued to a minimum of two trekkers, accompanied by a licensed guide. The permit fee is based on the length of your trek and can be quite expensive.
In addition to the TIMS and RAP permits, you’ll also need to obtain a National Park permit for the Shey-Phoksundo National Park, which is located in the Upper Dolpo region. This permit is obtained through the Nepal Tourism Board or a trekking agency and is required for all trekkers entering the national park.
Transportation during the Upper Dolpo Trek in Nepal is an essential aspect of the journey, as the region is located in a remote and isolated area that is only accessible by foot or by air. There are no roads leading to the Upper Dolpo region, so trekking is the only way to access the area. However, there are a few different modes of transportation that are required during the trek.
The first mode of transportation required is a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, which is located in the western part of Nepal. From there, you’ll need to take another flight to Juphal, which is the starting point of the Upper Dolpo Trek. These flights are usually operated by small planes and can be weather-dependent, so it’s important to check the weather conditions before booking your flight.
Once you reach Juphal, you’ll start your trek and will need to rely on your own two feet to get around. The trek takes you through a remote and rugged region, with some challenging ascents and descents. You’ll need to be in good physical shape and have appropriate gear to complete the trek safely.
During the trek, there are a few places where you’ll need to cross rivers, which requires the use of suspension bridges. These bridges are sturdy and safe but can be quite high and narrow, so it’s important to be careful when crossing them.
Overall, transportation during the Upper Dolpo Trek is limited to flights and trekking on foot. However, the stunning and remote nature of the region makes the journey well worth it, as you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking landscapes, unique cultural experiences, and the chance to challenge yourself physically and mentally.
You will be greeted upon Kathmandu arrival. Our representative will pick you up at the TIA airport and then transfer you to the hotel.
On the second day of your trekking adventure, you will have a day off to explore the historic and cultural sites of Kathmandu Valley. This is a wonderful opportunity to visit the famous heritage sites such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath Stupa. These landmarks are rich in history and tradition, and offer a glimpse into the fascinating culture of Nepal.
During the day, we will also conduct a pre-trip departure meeting where you will get to meet your trek guide and other members of the team. This meeting is an important aspect of the trekking journey, as it provides you with valuable information about team formation, equipment and the nature of peak climbing. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have and to clarify any doubts or concerns. This meeting will ensure that you are fully prepared for the adventure that lies ahead.
Overall, day two is a crucial day for getting ready for the upcoming trekking peak. Take this time to rest and explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu before embarking on your thrilling journey through the Nepalese mountains.
Trek Distance :
550km
Trek Duration :
1 hour
On day three of your Upper Dolpo trekking adventure, we will take a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, which will take approximately one hour. During the flight, you will be treated to spectacular views of the western Himalayas, including Langtang, Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. The panoramic vistas of these magnificent mountain ranges are sure to take your breath away.
Upon arrival in Nepalgunj, you will notice a difference in temperature compared to Kathmandu, as it is comparatively warmer due to its proximity to the Indian border. Nepalgunj is a bustling city and a hub for transportation and trade in the western region of Nepal. Despite its urban character, Nepalgunj still retains a cultural charm and is home to several temples and markets that are worth exploring.
On day four of your Upper Dolpo trekking journey, we will take an early morning flight to Juphal, which will take approximately 45 minutes. This short flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan foothills and the magnificent Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The stunning panoramas will leave you in awe and give you a glimpse of the natural wonders that await you in the Dolpo region.
Upon arrival in Juphal, we will arrange our luggage and other necessary items before embarking on an easy trek to Dunai. This initial trek is a great opportunity to acclimatize to the altitude and get a feel for the terrain. The trail will take us through the beautiful landscapes of Dolpo, with its lush forests, sparkling streams, and charming villages.
The village of Dunai is a peaceful and welcoming place, where we will spend the night in one of the local lodges. The lodge provides a comfortable and cozy atmosphere, allowing you to rest and rejuvenate for the upcoming days of the trek. Overall, day four is an exciting and invigorating start to the trekking journey and offers a taste of the natural and cultural wonders of the Dolpo region.
Trek Distance :
12km
Highest Altitude :
2630m
Trek Duration :
7 hours
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
On day five of your Upper Dolpo trekking expedition, we will begin our journey from Dunai and head towards Chhepka. While the first day of the trek may take some time to arrange all the necessary luggage, it is an essential step in ensuring a comfortable and successful journey ahead.
We will start by crossing a bridge over the Bheri River and taking a left trail that will lead us to Shulighat, the entry point of the Shey Phoksundo National Park. This is where we will begin our ascent towards Chhepka, following the tranquil Phoksundo Khola river. Along the way, we will pass through several small settlements, each offering unique cultural experiences and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Chhepka is a quaint village located at an altitude of 2630 meters, nestled amidst the rugged and majestic Dolpo region. The village is surrounded by lush forests and streams, providing a peaceful and serene atmosphere. We will spend the night at one of the local lodges in Chhepka, which offers comfortable accommodation and warm hospitality.
Overall, day five is an exhilarating day of the trek, offering stunning views of the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Dolpo region. The ascent towards Chhepka is a memorable and rewarding experience, and the village itself is a charming and tranquil place to rest and recharge for the days ahead.
Trek Distance :
8-10km
Highest Altitude :
3170m
Trek Duration :
6 hours
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day six of the Upper Dolpo trekking expedition begins with a gradual climb up the valley, passing through dense forests and tranquil streams. The trail offers several small ups and downs paths, and we will need to cross the river over small bridges that lead us to our lunch spot at Raichi.
After refueling, we will continue on the trail towards Chunuwar, where we will spend the night. Along the way, we will witness a truly mesmerizing natural phenomenon – the merging of two rivers of distinctly different colors to form a single Phoksundo River. This dramatic point is a sight to behold and will leave you in awe of the majestic beauty of the Dolpo region.
Chunuwar is a picturesque village located at an altitude of 3170 meters, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The village is renowned for its warm hospitality and traditional way of life, offering a unique cultural experience for visitors.
Overall, day six is a challenging yet rewarding day of the trek, offering stunning natural beauty and cultural richness. The trek through the dense forests and tranquil streams, combined with the dramatic merging of rivers and the charming village of Chunuwar, makes it a memorable and unforgettable experience for all.
Highest Altitude :
3620m
Trek Duration :
5 hours
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Today we will embark on a journey from Chunuwar to the stunning Phoksundo Lake, situated at an altitude of 3620 meters. The initial three hours of the trek will be a steep uphill climb with little vegetation and dusty terrain during the dry season. However, the panoramic views of the hills around us will be a sight to behold. At the view tower, we will get a glimpse of Nepal’s highest waterfall with a height of 107 meters. A further ten minutes of uphill trekking will lead us to our first view of the captivating Phoksundo Lake. As we continue our journey, the trail will gradually descend through a lush pine forest, leading us to the charming village of Ringmo.
Our next destination is the mesmerizing Phoksundo Lake, where we will spend some time taking in the breathtaking beauty of this natural wonder. Additionally, we may opt for a short hike to the quaint village of Ringmo, which is home to several Tibetan monasteries. The locals of this region follow the Bon Buddhist tradition, which is considered pre-Buddhist and has its unique set of beliefs and practices. So, we will have the opportunity to learn about their culture and way of life during our visit to Ringmo.
Highest Altitude :
3640m
Trek Duration :
6 hours
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Today, we will cross the boundary between Lower and Upper Dolpo by visiting Ringo village. This village holds a great significance as it marks the beginning of a restricted area of Upper Dolpo, which can be explored with a special permit. Our journey will follow the salt trade route between the people of Dolpo and Tibet, which is a twisted and adventurous trail. This trail was also featured in the Oscar-nominated movie HIMALAYA directed by Eric Valli. As we hike to an elevation of 4085 meters, we can witness the stunning beauty of the dense forest and the spectacular view of Kanjirowa Himal, which has an impressive elevation of 6612 meters. Finally, we will reach a beautiful camping spot to rest and rejuvenate for the upcoming adventures.
Trek Distance :
9km
Highest Altitude :
4120m
Trek Duration :
6 hours
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The path we take for the trek is truly one-of-a-kind. The trail is bordered by towering rock walls on both sides, adding a sense of grandeur to the journey. We’ll need to cross a few streams without any bridges, which is an adventure in itself. The river flows right through a gorge, and as we walk uphill, we’re greeted with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The riverbank is a vast, open space with rocky terrain and thorny juniper bushes dotting the landscape. It’s a unique environment that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
On this day, we will embark on a challenging ascent up the Sandy Mountain, with a steep incline that lasts for about two and a half hours. Trekking at such a high altitude of 5350 meters can be tricky, with the sandy ground making it difficult to maintain a steady footing. It is crucial to watch out for altitude sickness, which can creep up unexpectedly. However, the stunning view from the top of Kang-La pass is a reward worth the effort.
As we descend from the pass, the terrain gradually changes, and after walking for four hours, we reach our destination for the day – Shey Gompa. This remote village is home to a significant Buddhist monastery that is over 800 years old. The serene and spiritual atmosphere of this place is the perfect antidote to the physical and mental challenges of the day’s trek.
Explore the tranquil surroundings of Tsakang Gompa, a former meditation retreat for many renowned Tibetan lamas. Unlike other monasteries, Tsakang Gompa is a place of reflection and solitude, offering a peaceful refuge for those seeking spiritual enlightenment. The neighboring Shey Gompa, belonging to the Chaiba community, is a revered site for Padmasambhava and Kagyu followers. Founded by the esteemed lama Ten-szin-Ra-Pa in the 11th century, it is the oldest Kagyupa monastery in the region. The cultural significance of Shey Gompa lies in its preservation of ancient Buddhist traditions and its unique blend of animism and Buddha’s teachings. Legend has it that the renowned Buddhist master Drutup Yeshe introduced Buddhism to the Dolpo valley centuries ago, where he encountered a tribe that worshiped a powerful mountain spirit. The Crystal Mountain, located west of Shey Gompa, boasts stunning cliffs adorned with quartz and an impressive range of marine fossils. Overlooking the confluence of Kwangju Nala and Yeju Nala, Shey Gompa is surrounded by water wheels that power a group of prayer mills, creating a mesmerizing visual and spiritual experience for all who visit.
Our journey today requires crossing a challenging pass named Shey-La, towering at 5,000 meters above sea level. As we trek, we encounter a zigzagging path paved with bare rocks and coarse eroded soil. But as we cross over to the other side, the trail descends, leading us to vast pastures, and finally, our destination, Namgung. It’s going to be an exciting and challenging day.
As we embark on the trek, the trail challenges us with a steep ascent, demanding every bit of our energy and focus as we strive towards the 4700 meters pass. Once we conquer the climb, the trail rewards us with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment. The descent leads us to the charming village of Saldang, which is a significant hub of the trade route to Tibet due to its strategic location. The village also holds the distinction of being one of the largest in the region, and its unique blend of culture and history is sure to captivate any visitor.
The trekking trail offers a diverse range of landscapes and cultural landmarks, with terraced fields, chhortens, mani walls, and monasteries dotting the way. We follow the winding gorge, with vibrant green fields of local barley lining the riverbanks. To reach our campsite, we must ford the knee-deep river twice, adding a touch of adventure to the journey. Once we arrive, we find ourselves in a tranquil open ground, surrounded by the striking beauty of thorny juniper bushes.
The final hurdle of our journey lies ahead, and our minds must be geared up to face it. The trail takes us through a gently sloping landscape next to a river, but we must cross it twice for an extended distance. Gradually, the path becomes steeper as we leave behind the verdant valleys and villages and enter a barren, rugged hillside. Our campsite for the night is at a high altitude, making it one of the highest points of our trek.
Today’s adventure begins with a steep ascent to the final pass of our journey, offering breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas, including the towering Dhaulagiri. As we descend from the pass, we gradually make our way towards Tarap valley, taking in the stunning sights of the barren yet beautiful Inner Dolpo region. The descent starts off easy but soon becomes steeper as we make our way towards our destination. After around two hours of walking from Tokyo Goan, we arrive at the highest village of Dolpo, Dho-Tarap. This is where the route diverges towards Jomsom, Mustang, and Tibet, making it a significant junction for adventurers and traders alike.
As we start descending from Dho-Tarap, the trail winds through a gorge with steep ridges hanging above and around us. At times, the trail disappears between the hills and reappears on the other side. The sound of the Tarap River accompanies us as we pass through narrow gorges, and we encounter many mules, horses, and Yaks carrying goods.
As we continue, we notice some improvements in the trail’s construction, and soon we see a modern steel bridge spanning the river. It provides a much-needed convenience for the movement of people and animals, and we can’t help but marvel at the combination of traditional transportation methods and modern infrastructure.
The same course, walk along the river to the narrow gorge a gentle incline through the dense forest. Sometimes, several ups and downs appear along the trail due to the huge rocky stones that represent the quality of the trail and take attention while on trek possibility of slippery.
The path meanders alongside the river, offering a comfortable and gradual ascent. At times, it winds up the hilltops, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, while at other times, it dips down to the river level, providing a serene walking experience by the water’s edge. The trail is dotted with occasional open spaces that invite us to pause and soak in the beauty of the surroundings. The trail culminates at Dunai, marking the end of an epic journey through the rugged terrain of Dolpo.
The trail retrace the steps to Juphal while the journey to mountain. Just walk along the motorable road to Kala gouda. A steep climb up to Juphal passing through the cultivated rice fields
Early morning, we take a flight to Nepalgunj. It is a wonderful 35- minute flight over the Himalayan foothills, with fine views of the main peaks including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri to the north. You then catch up on the connection flight back to Kathmandu.
| All domestic flight, Hotel/Airport transfer |
| Accommodations in Kathmandu with breakfast |
|
All accommodations in tents and all meals during the treks |
| All necessary documentation and permits |
| All ground transportation (as per mention in itinerary) |
| Professional guide and porters |
| A First Aid Kits |
| Applicable Government Taxes |
| International Airfare |
| Nepal Visa fee (advice to take accurate amount) |
| Meals in Kathmandu (except breakfast) |
| Personal Expenses e.g. phone calls, laundry, bar bills & extra porters |
| Travel Insurance |
| Tips for Guide and Porter. |
Pros:
- Good service
- Everything was well organised
- Bustour to Pokhara
- Taxidrive from Pokhara to Hotel
- Hotel (+2 more days)
- Trekking tour (Poonhill Track) with... read more
Good experience - Service was decent
Price was reasonable
小哥还挺帅的，有个中国女朋友，所以中午超溜的啊。安排的行程很合理，导游英语不太好，但人不错。总体来说值得推荐
A Tripadvisor China Member
Doing 19 days trip of Manaslu TSUM valley with larke pass was my dream since 2018 but delayed always.And fInally I was able to get time to do this trip... read more
Click one of our contacts below to chat on WhatsApp
