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Upper Dolpo Trek – 21 Days
$5,000

Upper Dolpo Trek – 21 Days

21 Days Dolpa
  • Tour code

    T6

  • Destination

    Dolpa

  • Group Size

    10-12

  • Grade

    5

  • Altitude

    4,000 m - 5,350 m

  • Trip Region

    Dolpa region

Overview

Description

The Upper Dolpo Trek is a rare and rewarding trekking experience through one of Nepal’s most untouched and spiritually vibrant regions. Located behind the Dhaulagiri mountain range, Upper Dolpo offers dramatic Himalayan views, crystal-clear lakes like Shey Phoksundo, ancient monasteries, and a deep connection to Bon and Tibetan Buddhist culture. With limited access and no modern infrastructure, this trek feels like a journey into a forgotten kingdom, far away from the busy tourist trails of Nepal.

Cultural and Natural Wonders

During the trek, you’ll explore sacred sites like Shey Gompa, Crystal Mountain, and Melarapa’s Meditation Cave. Cross high and challenging passes such as Kang La, Sela La, and Jyanta La, all over 5,000 meters. The trail also passes through traditional villages like Dho Tarap and Saldang, where you can experience the pure Tibetan lifestyle and unique traditions that have remained unchanged for centuries. This deep cultural immersion is what makes Upper Dolpo truly special.

Why Choose Upper Dolpo Trek?

Unlike popular treks in Everest or Annapurna, Upper Dolpo gives you the chance to explore the true wilderness. The area is rich in biodiversity, with possible sightings of blue sheep, Himalayan foxes, musk deer, and even snow leopards. You’ll walk through alpine deserts, wild valleys, and the Yarsha Gumba region—famous for rare medicinal herbs and scenic summer pastures. This trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking both physical challenge and spiritual discovery.

Transportation

  • Flight: Kathmandu → Nepalgunj → Juphal (Start of trek)
  • Return: Juphal → Nepalgunj → Kathmandu
  • Private vehicle or jeep transportation may be used from the trek end points.

Best season

  • Spring (Mar–May)
  • Autumn (Sep–Nov)

Permits

  • Upper Dolpo Special Permit: USD 500 for 10 days, then USD 50/day
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry: NPR 3,000 per person
  • TIMS Card: Required for all trekkers (Permits available only via licensed trekking agencies; individual trekkers not allowed.)

Photos

Itinerary

The Upper Dolpo Trek takes you through remote Himalayan villages, Phoksundo Lake, Shey Gompa, and high passes like Kang-La and Numala. Explore monasteries, valleys, and rich culture before returning to Kathmandu via Juphal and Nepalgunj.

Scenic flight to Nepalgunj. Overnight stay in a hotel.

Fly to Juphal and trek past Dunai and Sulighat to Chhepka. Camp overnight.

Trek through forests and canyons, crossing wooden bridges and steep paths.

Walk along the Phoksundo River, pass through Polam and reach Ringmo village.

Rest day to explore Shey Phoksundo Lake and the ancient Tshowa Monastery.

Continue along narrow valleys and riverbanks to camp at Chunemba.

Trek along rugged cliffs toward the base of Kang La Pass.

Early morning climb to the pass with stunning mountain views, descend to Shey Gompa.

Explore the monastery and hike to Tsakang Gompa and meditation caves.

Challenging climb and descent to the remote settlement of Namgung.

Explore Namgung Monastery and descend to the culturally rich village of Saldang.

Follow the Namga Khola to Chagaon, visiting gompas and traditional houses.

Ascend toward the base of Jyanta La Pass with colorful scenery.

Early climb to the high pass, descend past yak pastures and scenic vistas.

Visit ancient monasteries like Champa Gompa and explore this vibrant settlement.

Continue through canyons and river valleys to Sisaul village.

Pass monasteries, cliffs, and scenic riverbanks to reach Laina Odar.

Descend through forest trails and steep cliffs toward Tarakot and Lingdo.

Final trekking day, follow the Thulo Bheri River back to Dunai.

Short trek to Juphal for the flight next morning.

Catch a flight to Nepalgunj and then back to Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel.

Route Map

Includes / Excludes

Includes

  • Airport pick-up & drop
  • All internal flights and ground transport
  •  Accommodation & meals during the trek (full board)
  •  Professional guide and porter (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
  • All trekking permits (Dolpo Special, National Park, TIMS)
  • Camping gear, first aid, and safety equipment
  • Duffel bag, trekking map, and T-shirt
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • All government taxes and service charges

Excludes

  • Nepal visa and international flights
  • Extra baggage charges
  • Additional nights in Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses (snacks, laundry, etc.)
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Tips for guide and porters
  • Trekking gear (available on rent)
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