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Far western Nepal & Dolpo Region

Upper Dolpo Trek

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The Upper Dolpo Trek stands as one of Nepal's most remote and pristine trekking adventures, offering an extraordinary journey through the hidden Himalayan realm that was once a forbidden kingdom. This legendary trek takes you through the vast wilderness of Nepal's largest district, featuring arid landscapes, snow-covered passes, ancient monasteries, and isolated settlements that preserve a way of life unchanged for centuries. The trail winds through the spectacular Trans-Himalayan region, offering dramatic views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Kanjiroba, and the crystal-clear waters of Phoksundo Lake with its remarkable turquoise hue. Along the way, trekkers experience the unique Tibetan-influenced culture of Dolpo, with opportunities to visit centuries-old monasteries, witness ancient Bon religious practices, and encounter semi-nomadic peoples whose lifestyles have adapted to one of the harshest environments on earth. Wildlife encounters might include Himalayan blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, and possibly the elusive snow leopard, while the diverse flora ranges from subtropical pine forests at lower elevations to alpine meadows filled with medicinal herbs. The optimal time to undertake this adventure is during the summer months (June-August) when lower regions might experience monsoon but Dolpo remains in the rain shadow, or during the clear autumn days (September-October) when stable weather provides excellent visibility and ideal trekking conditions.

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Total Distance 200km (124 miles)
Altitude 5,360m (17,585ft)
Food Simple Nepali and Tibetan Dishes
Transporation Jeep, Flights, Trekking
Difficulty Level Most Challenging

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About this Trip

The Upper Dolpo Trek represents more than just an adventurous challenge. It's an immersive journey into one of the last places on earth where traditional Tibetan culture thrives in its purest form, set against the backdrop of some of the most dramatic and least-visited landscapes in the Himalayas.

As you ascend through the remote valleys of Dolpo, the landscape transforms dramatically. The trail begins in the lush, forested regions of Lower Dolpo, with rushing rivers and diverse vegetation. Gradually, the terrain shifts to arid, high-altitude desert reminiscent of Tibet, with barren hillsides, dramatic canyons, and sweeping plateaus. Each day brings new vistas, with the turquoise jewel of Phoksundo Lake serving as a stunning highlight before you venture into the true isolation of Upper Dolpo.

The cultural aspect of the trek is unparalleled. The people of Dolpo, predominantly of Tibetan origin, maintain ancient traditions, spiritual practices, and lifestyles remarkably untouched by modern influence. Ancient Buddhist and Bon monasteries like Shey Gompa, reputed to be over 800 years old, offer glimpses into religious practices that have remained largely unchanged despite their obscurity to the outside world.

Physically, the trek challenges participants with long daily distances, multiple high passes above 5,000m, and the effects of prolonged exposure to high altitude. The remote nature of the region means facilities are basic, adding to both the challenge and the authentic experience. The sense of accomplishment upon completing this circuit – traveling through areas that see fewer than 500 foreign visitors annually – creates an indelible memory of true wilderness exploration.

 

Throughout the journey, the interaction with local communities adds another dimension to the experience. Sharing simple meals in basic teahouses or family homes, exchanging smiles despite language barriers, and witnessing the remarkable resilience of people who thrive in such challenging environments provides profound perspective that often becomes the most treasured aspect of the trek.

+ Read More

The Upper Dolpo Trek represents more than just an adventurous challenge. It's an immersive journey into one of the last places on earth where traditional Tibetan culture thrives in its purest form, set against the backdrop of some of the most dramatic and least-visited landscapes in the Himalayas.

As you ascend through the remote valleys of Dolpo, the landscape transforms dramatically. The trail begins in the lush, forested regions of Lower Dolpo, with rushing rivers and diverse vegetation. Gradually, the terrain shifts to arid, high-altitude desert reminiscent of Tibet, with barren hillsides, dramatic canyons, and sweeping plateaus. Each day brings new vistas, with the turquoise jewel of Phoksundo Lake serving as a stunning highlight before you venture into the true isolation of Upper Dolpo.

The cultural aspect of the trek is unparalleled. The people of Dolpo, predominantly of Tibetan origin, maintain ancient traditions, spiritual practices, and lifestyles remarkably untouched by modern influence. Ancient Buddhist and Bon monasteries like Shey Gompa, reputed to be over 800 years old, offer glimpses into religious practices that have remained largely unchanged despite their obscurity to the outside world.

Physically, the trek challenges participants with long daily distances, multiple high passes above 5,000m, and the effects of prolonged exposure to high altitude. The remote nature of the region means facilities are basic, adding to both the challenge and the authentic experience. The sense of accomplishment upon completing this circuit – traveling through areas that see fewer than 500 foreign visitors annually – creates an indelible memory of true wilderness exploration.

 

Throughout the journey, the interaction with local communities adds another dimension to the experience. Sharing simple meals in basic teahouses or family homes, exchanging smiles despite language barriers, and witnessing the remarkable resilience of people who thrive in such challenging environments provides profound perspective that often becomes the most treasured aspect of the trek.

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Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Your Upper Dolpo adventure begins in Nepal's vibrant capital city. After airport pickup, settle into your hotel and attend a detailed pre-trek briefing with your guide. Take time to explore Thamel for last-minute trekking supplies and enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine as you prepare for the remote adventure ahead. Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Kathmandu with hot showers and WiFi.
Day 2

Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m)

Take a 50-minute flight to Nepalgunj, a subtropical city near the Indian border that serves as the gateway to western Nepal. The dramatic shift in climate and culture provides an interesting contrast to Kathmandu. Use the afternoon to prepare for the early morning mountain flight and perhaps explore this multicultural border town with its distinctly different atmosphere from the capital. Accommodation: Standard hotel in Nepalgunj with air conditioning.
Day 3

Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,320m) to Dunai (2,140m)

Begin your day with an early morning 45-minute flight to Juphal, a small airstrip in Lower Dolpo, offering spectacular aerial views of the transition from plains to mountains. Upon landing, meet your trekking crew and begin the 2-3 hour descent through terraced fields and pine forests to Dunai, the administrative headquarters of the Dolpo region. This gentle introduction allows for initial acclimatization while offering glimpses of traditional village life. Accommodation: Basic teahouse or lodge in Dunai.
Day 4

Dunai to Ankhe (2,660m)

Today's 5-6 hour trek follows the Thuli Bheri and Suli Gad rivers through a subtropical landscape. Pass through traditional villages where subsistence farming remains the norm, and begin to notice the transition to more traditional Tibetan-style architecture. The trail climbs gradually through forests of walnut and poplar trees before reaching Ankhe, offering views of the narrow river valley and surrounding peaks. Accommodation: Basic teahouse in Ankhe.
Day 5

Ankhe to Sulighat (2,950m)

The 5-6 hour trek today continues along the Suli Gad river, climbing more consistently as you officially enter Shey Phoksundo National Park. The river narrows into dramatic gorges at several points, with the trail carved into cliff sides. The landscape becomes noticeably more dramatic as you move deeper into the mountains, with glimpses of snow-capped peaks appearing between the closer hills. Vegetation gradually transitions to pine and cedar forests typical of higher elevations. Accommodation: Basic teahouse in Sulighat.
Day 6

Sulighat to Phoksundo Lake (3,611m)

Today's challenging but rewarding 4-5 hour trek brings you to one of the highlights of the journey – the turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake. After a steep climb, you'll reach a ridge offering the first views of this remarkable lake, whose color seems almost artificial in its intensity. Descend to the northern shore of the lake, passing the impressive Phoksundo waterfall – said to be the tallest in Nepal. The cultural landscape changes as Buddhist prayer flags and mani walls become more prevalent. Accommodation: Basic teahouse near Phoksundo Lake.
Day 7

Acclimatization Day at Phoksundo Lake

Take a full day to acclimatize and explore the stunning Phoksundo Lake region. Visit the ancient Bon monastery of Ringmo village, predating Buddhism in the region. A half-day hike along the shores of the lake offers spectacular photographic opportunities of the crystal waters against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, while giving your body crucial time to adjust to the increasing altitude. Accommodation: Same teahouse near Phoksundo Lake.
Day 8

Phoksundo Lake to Phoksundo Khola Camp (3,750m)

Begin the trek into the more remote Upper Dolpo region with a 5-6 hour journey along the western bank of Phoksundo Lake. The trail becomes more primitive as visitor numbers decline dramatically beyond this point. After traversing the northern edge of the lake, follow the Phoksundo Khola (river) upstream through a narrow valley. The landscape becomes increasingly arid as you enter the rain shadow of the Himalayas, with the terrain resembling nearby Tibet. Accommodation: Basic camping at Phoksundo Khola Camp.
Day 9

Phoksundo Khola Camp to Lar Tsa (4,120m)

The 6-7 hour trek follows the river valley as it narrows further, with several river crossings (some via basic bridges, others by wading during low water seasons). The vegetation becomes increasingly sparse as you gain altitude, entering true high-altitude desert terrain. Keep watch for blue sheep on the rocky slopes above. The path is sometimes indistinct, following ancient trading routes between Tibet and Nepal. Accommodation: Basic camping at Lar Tsa.
Day 10

Lar Tsa to Shey Gompa via Kang La Pass (5,360m)

This pivotal and challenging day begins with an early start for the 7-8 hour trek that includes crossing the Kang La Pass. The steep, 3-4 hour ascent to the pass traverses scree slopes and requires careful footing. From the pass, marked by prayer flags, enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Dolpo region and distant Dhaulagiri massif before beginning the equally steep descent. Eventually, the ancient Shey Gompa (monastery) comes into view – the spiritual heart of Upper Dolpo and pivotal location in Peter Matthiessen's famous book "The Snow Leopard." Accommodation: Basic camping near Shey Gompa, possibly staying with the caretaker monks.
Day 11

Acclimatization and Exploration Day at Shey Gompa (4,160m)

Recover from the challenging previous day with exploration of Shey Gompa and its surroundings. The monastery contains ancient thankas (religious paintings), statues, and manuscripts. Hikes in the surrounding Crystal Mountain area offer opportunities to see evidence of the region's rich mineral deposits that give the mountain its name, as well as meditation caves used by Buddhist practitioners for centuries. Accommodation: Same basic accommodation near Shey Gompa.
Day 12

Shey Gompa to Namduna Gaun via Saldang La (4,785m)

Another challenging 7-8 hour day as you cross your second major pass. The trail to Saldang La is less steep than Kang La but still demanding, with increasingly minimal vegetation and expanded views of the stark mountain landscape. From the pass, descend toward Namduna village, where the ancient Namgung monastery clings to the hillside. The entire region is known for its rich deposits of medicinal herbs, collected by locals during summer months. Accommodation: Basic teahouse or camping in Namduna Gaun.
Day 13

Namduna Gaun to Saldang (3,770m)

Today's 4-5 hour trek takes you to Saldang, the largest settlement in Upper Dolpo. The trail follows ancient terrain above the Namga Khola with views down into the river valley. The landscape features dramatic erosion patterns creating an almost lunar appearance. Saldang itself is a sprawling village of traditional flat-roofed stone houses, appearing like a mirage in the otherwise barren landscape. The village's relative prosperity comes from trans-border trade with Tibet and cultivation of barley in irrigated fields. Accommodation: Basic teahouse or home-stay in Saldang.
Day 14

Exploration Day in Saldang

Use this day to rest and immerse yourself in the unique culture of Upper Dolpo. Visit the village monastery which contains some of the region's finest religious artwork, observe local agricultural techniques that have enabled survival in this harsh environment for centuries, and perhaps visit the local school if in session. The daily life you witness here has remained largely unchanged for hundreds of years. Accommodation: Same accommodation in Saldang.
Day 15

Saldang to Yangze Gompa (3,820m)

Journey for 4-5 hours to reach the isolated Yangze Gompa. The trail crosses high desert plateau land with distant views of snow-capped peaks along the Tibet border. Yangze monastery represents another important Bon religious site, predating Buddhism's arrival in the region. The monastery contains unique artifacts and religious implements not found in traditional Buddhist gompas. Accommodation: Basic camping near Yangze Gompa.
Day 16

Yangze Gompa to Sibu (3,940m)

Today's 5-6 hour trek follows a high trail with consistent views of the Trans-Himalayan landscape. The terrain alternates between rocky outcrops and high pastures used by nomadic herders during summer months. Several stream crossings punctuate the day before descending to Sibu, a small collection of stone houses near a tributary of the Panjang Khola. Accommodation: Basic camping in Sibu.
Day 17

Sibu to Jeng La Phedi (4,370m)

The 5-6 hour journey today gradually ascends toward the base of your next major pass. The trail becomes increasingly rocky as you gain altitude, with diminishing signs of human habitation. Snow leopard territory surrounds you, though sightings remain extremely rare. The campsite at Jeng La Phedi sits in a protected bowl below the pass, with impressive mountain views as evening light plays across the peaks. Accommodation: Basic camping at Jeng La Phedi.
Day 18

Jeng La Phedi to Tokyu via Jeng La Pass (4,845m)

Another early start for this 7-8 hour day crossing Jeng La Pass. The 2-3 hour climb to the pass is steady but not technically difficult. From the top, weather permitting, enjoy spectacular views of Dhaulagiri massif and the distant Tibetan plateau before descending into the Tarap Valley – a relative oasis in the otherwise arid landscape. The wider valley allows for more extensive agriculture, supporting larger settlements including Tokyu, with its important monastery and distinctive cluster of traditional homes. Accommodation: Basic teahouse in Tokyu.
Day 19

Tokyu to Dho Tarap (3,944m)

A relatively easier 3-4 hour trek takes you through the Tarap Valley to Dho Tarap, the largest settlement in the region and an important trading hub between the upper and lower regions of Dolpo. The wider valley supports barley fields and grazing areas for yaks and goats. The village architecture features traditional Tibetan design with enclosed courtyards and flat roofs used for drying fodder and grains. Accommodation: Basic teahouse in Dho Tarap.
Day 20

Exploration Day in Dho Tarap

Spend the day exploring this fascinating cultural crossroads where Tibetan and Nepali influences meet. Visit the village monastery, observe traditional craft production including weaving and pottery, and interact with locals who maintain traditional lifestyles while gradually adapting to increasing contact with the outside world. The village hosts occasional markets where goods from lower regions are traded with products from the higher settlements. Accommodation: Same teahouse in Dho Tarap.
Day 21

Dho Tarap to Serkam (3,623m)

Begin your return journey with a 6-7 hour trek following the Tarap Khola downstream. The valley gradually narrows with the river increasingly dominant. The trail alternates between riverside paths and higher traverses when the gorge becomes too narrow. As you lose altitude, vegetation gradually increases with juniper and wild rose appearing more frequently. Accommodation: Basic camping at Serkam.
Day 22

Serkam to Khanigaon (3,180m)

Continue descending for 6-7 hours through the increasingly dramatic gorge of the Tarap Khola. The trail requires multiple crossings of side streams and careful navigation of narrow paths cut into cliffside. The river becomes more powerful as tributary streams add volume. The landscape transitions markedly as you lose altitude, with increasing greenery and biodiversity. Accommodation: Basic teahouse or camping in Khanigaon.
Day 23

Khanigaon to Tarakot (2,537m)

Trek for 5-6 hours as the Tarap Khola joins the larger Barbung Khola, creating a major river valley. The trail becomes better established as you enter more frequently traveled areas. Tarakot, with its strategic location and historical significance as a former trading post and regional capital, marks your return to larger settlements with its distinctive fortress-like monastery perched above the village. Accommodation: Basic teahouse in Tarakot.
Day 24

Tarakot to Dunai (2,140m)

The 5-6 hour trek follows the Barbung Khola downstream through a mix of pine forests and terraced agricultural areas. The evidence of more established village life increases with every hour as you leave the high-altitude desert landscape fully behind. Reaching Dunai completes your circuit, returning to the administrative headquarters of the region. Accommodation: Basic teahouse or lodge in Dunai.
Day 25

Dunai to Juphal (2,320m)

A 2-3 hour uphill trek returns you to Juphal airstrip, climbing through terraced fields and settlements. The contrast between the relatively lush environment of Lower Dolpo and the stark high-altitude desert you experienced creates a powerful reflection on the diversity of landscapes traversed during your journey. Accommodation: Basic teahouse in Juphal.
Day 26

Juphal to Nepalgunj to Kathmandu

Weather permitting, board your morning flight back to Nepalgunj, followed by a connecting flight to Kathmandu, bringing your mountain journey full circle. The aerial perspective offers a compressed review of the tremendous range of landscapes you've traversed on foot. Back in Kathmandu, enjoy the comforts of urban amenities while processing the profound experiences of the past three weeks in one of the world's most remote regions. Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 27

Departure from Kathmandu

Your Upper Dolpo adventure concludes with a transfer to Kathmandu International Airport for your departure flight. Depending on your schedule, you might have time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Kathmandu before leaving Nepal with memories of an authentic Himalayan journey experienced by very few modern travelers.
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Services

Includes

  • Specialized bilingual guide with Upper Dolpo experience
  • Private Transport
  • Round-trip airport transfers and local transportation as outlined
  • Daily meals on the trek: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Services of an experienced guide, cook team, and porters during the trek
  • Special Upper Dolpo restricted area permits ($500 value)
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park fees
  • Tented camping equipment for portions beyond teahouse areas
  • Accommodation throughout the trek (lodges, tented camps, and tea houses)

Excludes

  • Additional accommodation due to unexpected delays or changes
  • Comprehensive travel and medical insurance for the trek
  • Gratuities for the guides, porters, and trekking support staff
  • International flights and entry visa fees for Nepal
  • Personal trekking equipment and gear (sleeping bags, jackets, etc.)
  • Extra food and drinks beyond the standard meal plan

Good To Know

Train 4-6 months in advance with cardio, hiking, and some strength training for this demanding trek. Prior high-altitude experience is highly recommended. Acclimatize religiously to avoid altitude sickness. Pack carefully with high-quality, layered clothing suitable for temperatures ranging from +25°C to -15°C. Respect local customs by asking permission before photographing people or entering religious buildings. Carry sufficient Nepalese rupees as there are no ATMs beyond Dunai, and be prepared for higher costs as this is a fully supported camping trek in remote areas.

Spectacular Sightseeing

Phoksundo Lake – Stunning turquoise waters, Nepal’s deepest lake

Dhaulagiri Massif – Towering snow-capped peaks of the Dhaulagiri range

Kanjiroba Himal – Rugged and majestic Himalayan peaks

Crystal Mountain – Sacred mountain with unique rock formations

Ancient Bon and Buddhist Monasteries – Shey, Yangze, and Namgung monasteries

Traditional Tibetan-Style Villages – Preserving ancient culture and lifestyle

High-Altitude Desert Landscapes – Barren yet breathtaking terrain

Dramatic River Gorges – Deep valleys carved by glacial rivers

Alpine Meadows with Medicinal Herbs – Rich biodiversity with rare plants

Pristine Night Skies – Exceptional stargazing opportunities in a remote setting

Wildlife Encounters

Himalayan blue sheep (primary prey of snow leopards)

Himalayan tahr in forested regions

Musk deer in lower forest areas

Tibetan wolves (rare sightings)

Snow leopards (extremely rare sightings)

Various high-altitude birds including Himalayan griffon vultures, lammergeiers, and choughs

Alpine wildflowers during summer months

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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Your queries are answered.

How difficult is the Upper Dolpo Trek?

The trek is challenging to very difficult, requiring excellent physical fitness, mental resilience, and preferably previous high-altitude trekking experience. Daily hiking ranges from 5-8 hours with three passes over 4,800m.

Do I need trekking experience?

Previous multi-day trekking experience at altitudes above 4,000m is strongly recommended. This is not suitable as a first Himalayan trek.

What is the best time of year for this trek?

June to early October offers the best conditions. June-August avoids the monsoon (as Dolpo lies in the rain shadow), while September-early October provides clearer skies but colder temperatures.

How do I prevent altitude sickness?

Follow the acclimatization schedule strictly, stay well-hydrated, ascend slowly, and communicate any symptoms to your guide immediately. Medications like Diamox can be discussed with your doctor before traveling, and are recommended for this trek.

What type of accommodation can I expect?

Basic teahouses in lower regions and a mix of teahouses and tented camping in Upper Dolpo. Facilities are primitive with shared rooms, minimal amenities, and often no electricity beyond solar lighting.

Is it possible to shower during the trek?

Hot showers are available in some teahouses in Lower Dolpo for an additional fee, but in Upper Dolpo expect bucket washing or streams/rivers only. Wet wipes and quick-dry towels are essential.

How reliable is the WiFi and phone connectivity?

There is essentially no WiFi beyond Dunai. Mobile coverage extends only to Dunai and occasionally Phoksundo Lake. Bring a satellite communication device if staying connected is important.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Simple vegetarian diets can be accommodated with advance notice, but vegan, gluten-free, or other specific diets are extremely challenging in this remote area. Bringing supplementary food items is essential for specialized diets.

How much should I budget for the trek?

Beyond the package cost, budget approximately $20-30 per day for additional snacks, hot drinks, and any emergency supplies. Substantially more cash is required than on standard Nepali treks due to the remoteness.

How much should I tip the guides and porters?

Tipping is customary and appreciated. A general guideline is $12-18 per day for guides and $8-10 per day for porters, typically given at the end of the trek. Consider additional tips for the cook team if your experience was positive.

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Why Choose Our Upper Dolpo Trek
Dolpo Specialist Guides

Our guides include native Dolpo residents with intimate knowledge of the region's terrain, culture, and hidden highlights that most trekking companies cannot access.

Sustainable Approach

We employ full camping equipment and pack animals to minimize our environmental impact while providing crucial income to local communities in this economically challenged region.

Cultural Immersion

Our decades-long relationships with local families and monasteries allow for unique cultural experiences including private monastery visits and authentic homestays unavailable to most trekkers.

Safety Prioritization

Our comprehensive safety systems include satellite communication throughout the journey, portable altitude chambers, and established evacuation protocols despite the extreme remoteness of the region.

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Upper Dolpo Trek

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