Upper Dolpo Trek
Trek Description
The Upper Dolpo Trek takes you through one of Nepal’s most remote and stunning regions, offering a mix of rugged landscapes and rich Tibetan culture. You’ll trek past ancient monasteries, turquoise lakes, and traditional villages where life has remained unchanged for centuries. The trail includes challenging high passes with breathtaking views of the Phoksundo Lake (3,612m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), and Kanjiroba (6,883m) mountain ranges. This adventure is perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in the Himalayas.
Destination
Upper Dolpo, Nepal
Duration
26 Days
Trip Grade
Challenging
Start/ End
Kathmandu - Kathmandu
Best Season
Spring (March-April-May) & Autumn ( Sep-Oct-Nov)
Max People
2-16 people (ideal group size)
Transportation
Private vehicle/ Flight
Activities
Trekking, Wildlife Spotting, Cultural Immersion
The Upper Dolpo Trek throws you into Nepal’s wild west, where snow leopards live and ancient Tibetan traditions thrive. Cross heart-pounding passes like Kang La (5,380m), camp beside turquoise Phoksundo Lake, and explore Shey Gompa, a 12th-century monastery clinging to cliffs. This is pure adventure – no crowds, just raw Himalayan beauty and stories to last a lifetime.
Upper Dolpo Trek Facts
| Title | Information |
|---|---|
| Trek Name | Upper Dolpo Trek |
| Travel Budget | 4500-5000 USD (permits, flights, meals, basic lodging) |
| Standard Budget | USD 4000-7000 (mid-range, private rooms where available) |
| Difficulty | Challenging |
| Best Time | Spring (March-April-May) & Autumn(Sep-Oct-Nov) |
| Permit | Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit ($20each week plus $5 for every extra day) Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Fee: $30. Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit ($500 entrance fee for the first ten days and an additional $50 per day after that) TIMS Card $20. |
| Accommodation | Tea Houses, Lodges |
| Best ViewPoints | Phoksundo Lake (3,612m), Shey Gompa (4,500m), Kang La Pass (5,380m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Kanjiroba (6,883m) peaks, Dho Tarap Valley (4,090m), Saldang La Pass (4,785m), Numala Pass (5,190m), |
Day Wise Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
- Pick-up from Tribhuvan International Airport
- Transfer to a hotel in Thamel.​
- Trek briefing & last-minute gear shopping
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Full-Day Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour
- Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square.
- Final trek preparations.
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150 m)
- Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
- Flight duration will last approx. 50 minutes, and the drive duration will be around 8 hrs.
- Explore Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, and Lakeside.
- Overnight stay at Nepalgunj
Day 4: Fly Nepalgunj to Juphal (2475 m); Trek to Dunai (2140m)
- Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (35 mins), then trek 3 hours downhill to Dunai (2,140m).
- Sleep in a lodge. Visit Dunai’s village, schools, and hike to Bon Gumba for views.
Day 5: Trek Dunai to Chhepka (2687m)
- 6-hour trek from Dunai to Chhepka (2,687m) through forests and rivers.
- Show permits at Silughar check-post to enter Shey Phoksundo National Park.
- Walk by the Phoksundo River, cross bridges, pass villages (Kageni, Shangta), and stay overnight in Chhepka.
Day 6: Trek Chhepka to Chunuwar / Amchi Hospital (3000m)
- It is a 6-hour walk from Chhepka to Chunuwar (3,000m), crossing bridges over the Phoksundo River twice.
- Stop in Rechi (3,010m) for lunch, then trek by the river through quiet, green valleys.
- Sleep in tents near a traditional herbal clinic (Amchi) that treats locals with mountain herbs.
Day 7:Trek to Phoksundo Lake (3600m)
- 5-6 hour hike to Phoksundo Lake (3,600m), passing cedar forests and a winter village (Palam).
- Climb a ridge to see Nepal’s tallest waterfall (300m) and the turquoise lake for the first time.
- Sleep in tents near Ringmo village (solar-powered homes) and the magical Phoksundo shores.
Day 8: Rest day at Phoksundo Lake (3600m)
- Explore Ringmo Village: Wander the Tibetan-style village, learn its unique culture, and see solar-powered homes.
- Visit Ancient Monastery: Step inside Tshowa, a 900-year-old Bon monastery by the lake, and other sacred sites.
- Relax by Phoksundo Lake: Marvel at Nepal’s deepest turquoise lake, soak in epic views, and camp overnight.
Day 9: Trek Phoksundo to Sallaghari (3630m)
- A magical 5-6 hour walk from Phoksundo Lake to Sallaghari, featuring cliff trails, forest paths, and camping in a pine forest.
Day 10: Trek Sallaghari to Nangdala High Camp (4717m)
- A steep 5-6 hour climb along the Tuk Kyaksa river, crossing bridges and a canyon, to camp at Nangdala High Camp (4,717m).
Day 11: Trek Nangdala H.C. to Shey Gompa (4343 m) via Nanagda LA pass (5350 m) - 5/6 hours
- Trek to Shey Gompa and Crystal Mountain, crossing the Kang La Pass with a 3-hour uphill climb.
- Enjoy amazing views of Crystal Mountain, the Tibetan peaks, and Dolpo’s beautiful landscape.
- Stay at Shey Gompa, where a big festival is held every 12 years.
Day 12: Trek Shey Gompa to Nangung Gompa (4360 m) via Shay La Pass (5100 m) – 6/7 hours
- Explore the 800-year-old Shey Gompa, known as Shelri Sumdho, featured in The Snow Leopard and Caravan movies.
- Trek along Sephu Khola, climb Shey La Pass, and enjoy views of Mustang, Tibet, Kanjirowa, and Crystal Mountain.
- Descend to Namgung in about 2 hours and stay there for the night.
Day 13: Trek Namgong Gompa to Saldang (3770 m) – 4/5 hours
- Explore the cliffside Namgung Monastery before starting the trek.
- Walk along Namga Khola, passing herding spots to reach Saldang village.
- Explore Saldang, enjoy local drinks, and learn about Buddhist and Amchi traditions.
Day 14: Rest day at Saldang, hike to Yangjer Gumba (4590 m)
- After breakfast, we will hike to Yangjer, which is the richest monastery in this region.
- We will explore around and return to Saldang.
Day 15: Trek to Komash village (4060 m) – 6 hours
- We will follow the Saldang Lek along the rapyha Khola.
- We will ascend up to 4500 m and then descend to the Komash village.
Day 16: Trek from Komash village to Shimen (3850 m) –6 hours
- After starting our trek, we might encounter some rare species like Blue sheep and snow leopards.
- We will pass through many small villages.
Day 17: Trek to Tinje village (4110 m) – 5/6 hours
- Trek for 5 hours along Panjyang Khola, passing villages and monasteries.
- Reach the scenic Tinje Valley, known for its natural airstrip.
- Set up camp at Tinje village for the night.
Day 18: Trek Tinje Village to Yak Kharka (4750 m) – 5/6 hours
- Trek 5–6 hours along the Panjyan River, passing Chhamdang village.
- Walk past the confluence of Chholtam Khola and Panjyan Khola, then cross Thalum Khola.
- Reach Yak Kharka, a wide open grazing ground for yaks and sheep, and stay overnight.
Day 19: Trek from Yak Kharka to Tokyu (4240 m) – 5/6 hours
- Trek from Yak Kharka to Tokyu, starting with a bridge crossing over Sulun Khola.
- Climb for about 2 hours to reach Choila North Pass (5040 m) with stunning views.
- Descend to Tokyu and set up a stay there for the night.
Day 20: Trek from Tokyu to Dho Tarap (3944 m) –5 hours
- Today marks the 20th day of our journey.
- In Dho Trap, we take a good rest for the further journey.
Day 21: Trek from Dho Trap to Naworpani (3475 m) – 5/6 hours
- Trek a long distance along flat trails to the confluence of Tarap Khola and Mirubabane Khola.
- Cross Klang Khola near Langa Camp and continue along Tarap Khola.
- Pass villages like Sisaul, Gyamghar, and Toltol before staying at Naworpani.
Day 22: Trek from Nawopani to Lashicap (2775 m) –6 hours
- Continue trekking along Tarap Khola, with changing views and emerging green forests.
- Ascend to Lamchaur, cross Lahini Odar, and descend to Chhedhul Gompa.
- Follow the trail further to reach Laisicap and set up camp there.
Day 23: Trek from Lashicap to Dunai (2140 m) – 6 hours
- Trek above the Thuli Bheri River through green lands to reach Tarakot.
- Cross a small stream, passing villages like Lawan and Byasgad.
- Enjoy views of forests and terraced fields before reaching Dunai for room stay.
Day 24: Trek from Dunai to Juphal (2500 m) – 5/6 hours
- Today marks the last day of the trek.
- We will follow the trail along the Bheri River until we reach Kalagawda.
- From Kalagawda, we will trek to reach Juphal.
Day 25: Fly from Juphal to Nepalgung, Fly from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu – 3 hours
- Option 1: Take an early flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, then connect to Kathmandu.
- Spend the day exploring Thamel, Ason, or Indrachowk for souvenirs.
- Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Nepalese restaurant with cultural performances.
Day 26: Departure from Kathmandu
- Drop-off at Kathmandu Airport (TIA) for your flight.
- Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop service by private car.
- Meals on full board during the trekking(Breakfast, lunch,dinner,soup,Tea or coffee).
- Free Trekking map.
- Trek accommodation (tea house/camping)
- An expert Government licensed holder guide.
- Trekking porter /Sherpa who will carry your bags during the trekking.
- Ground transportation.
- All necessary paper works and Trekking entry permits.
- Government taxes, service charges, and itinerary program
- International Flight Ticket and Nepalese Visa Fee
- Personal accident insurance or Helicopter rescue.
- Any kind of Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks.
- All kind of Personal Expenses.
- Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section.
- Tips, gifts, souvenirs.
- Helicopter return from Base Camp.
- Private room & meals.
- Extra food/snacks.
Why Choose This Upper Dolpo Trek?
- Remote and Untouched Beauty – Upper Dolpo offers stunning landscapes, sacred mountains, and isolated villages far from modern influence.
- Rich Culture and Tradition – Experience ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, monasteries, and traditional Amchi medicine practices.
- Adventure and Solitude – Cross high mountain passes and explore hidden valleys with very few trekkers around, offering peace and adventure.
- Spiritual and Scenic Experience – Visit sacred sites like Shey Gompa and Crystal Mountain while enjoying breathtaking views of the Himalayas and serene nature.
Best Time For Upper Dolpo Trek
- Spring (April to June) – Mild weather, clear skies, and colorful landscapes make trekking enjoyable.
- Autumn (September to October) – Best season with clear views, dry trails, and vibrant festivals.
- Off-Season (Nov – March & July – Aug) – Harsh winter snow and summer rains make trekking difficult and less accessible.
Cost and Planning Facts for The Upper Dolpo Trek
- Budget: The Upper Dolpo Trek costs around $4500–$5000 for a full-service experience, including permits, meals, a guide, a porter, and accommodation
- Accommodation: Teahouse stays in Nepal typically cost $3–$15 per night, so for a 26-day trek, spending $260–$350 on accommodation is normal and aligns with standard rates across trekking regions.
- Food/Meal: Approximately $5 to $10 per meal, varying by location and food type.​ Daily total per day: $15 – $30 . Total of 26-day : Between $400 – $550.
- Transportation: Bus tickets are priced between $10 and $20. Renting a jeep for transportation can cost anywhere from $120 to $150.
- Guide: Around $25 – $35Â per day (includes salary, meals, and accommodation).
- Porter: Around $15 – $25 per day. For a 26-day trek, guide and porter costs could range between $500 – $800, depending on the increase or decrease in the number of days and services.
- Permits: Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit ($20 each week plus $5 for every extra day), Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Fee: $30, Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit ($500 entrance fee for the first ten days and an additional $50 per day after that), TIMS Card $20.
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Packing Tips for Upper Dolpo Trek
- Head
- Warm hat & cap.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Headlight.
- Face Mask or Balaclava
- Footwear
- Trekking shoes
- Hiking boots
- Warm Hiking socks
- Gaiters
- Body
- Base layers
- Waterproof jacket
- Thermal Gloves
- Trekking Trousers and Shorts
- Personal Hygiene Items
- Fleece Jacket
- Thermal Shirts and Pants
- Essentials/ Equipments
- Sleeping bag
- First aid kit
- Trekking poles & Raincoat
- Water Bottles
- High-energy snacks
- Maps & Compass/GPS
Upper Dolpo Trek By Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition
​Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition offers the Upper Dolpo Trek, an extraordinary journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich regions. This trek is ideal for adventurers seeking solitude, spiritual encounters, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.
Gallery Section
FAQ's Section
1. Do I need a special permit for the Upper Dolpo Trek?
Yes, trekkers need a Restricted Area Permit for Upper Dolpo and a Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit. Mardi Himal Treks will arrange these for you.
2. How difficult is the Upper Dolpo Trek?
It’s a challenging trek, suitable for experienced trekkers. You’ll cross high passes over 5,000 meters and camp in remote areas, so good fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.
3. How long does the Upper Dolpo Trek take?
The full trek usually takes 25 to 28 days, depending on the route, acclimatization, and side trips. Mardi Himal Treks offers flexible itineraries based on your preferences.
4. Is Wi-Fi or a mobile signal available during the trek?
Mobile signal is very limited or unavailable in most of Upper Dolpo.
Want to Trek Upper Dolpo with Mardi Himal Treks & Expedition?
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