Transportation
Domestic flights (Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Juphal), ground transport in Kathmandu.
Group Size
Minimum 2 to maximum 12 people.
Accomodation
Teahouse/lodge during the trek; hotels in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj.
Maximum Altitude
5,220 meters at Jyanta La Pass.
Fitness level
High fitness level required for long trekking days and high altitudes.
Arrival on
Day 1 in Kathmandu (1,300m).
Departure from
Day 25 from Kathmandu (1,300m).
Best season
Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-November).
Guiding method
Professional, licensed trekking guide and support staff.
Tour type
Fully guided trekking expedition.
Language
English-speaking guides.
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided during the trek.
Permits
Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

About Upper Dolpo Trek

The Upper Dolpo Trek is an extraordinary adventure that leads trekkers through one of Nepal’s most secluded and culturally rich regions. Situated in the northwestern part of the country, near the Tibetan border, Dolpo offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, ancient culture, and remote wilderness. This trek is renowned for its untouched beauty, high-altitude passes, and the opportunity to experience traditional Tibetan culture.

Geography and Climate

Dolpo lies in the northwestern region of Nepal, adjacent to Tibet. It is characterized by its rugged terrain, high-altitude plateaus, and deep valleys. The region is part of the larger Dolpa district and is known for its dramatic landscapes, including the pristine Phoksundo Lake and the barren, desert-like high-altitude areas.

The climate in Upper Dolpo varies with altitude. At lower elevations, the weather is relatively mild, while higher altitudes experience colder temperatures and more severe weather conditions. The best times to trek are late spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is more stable and conducive for trekking.

Cultural Significance

Upper Dolpo is culturally unique, with strong influences from Tibetan Buddhism. The region is home to several ancient monasteries, traditional villages, and cultural practices that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. The local people, known as Dolpo Pas, maintain a lifestyle that is deeply connected to their Tibetan heritage. They practice Buddhism and celebrate traditional festivals that reflect their spiritual and cultural values.

Highlights of the Trek

Stunning Landscapes: The trek offers a diverse range of landscapes, from lush valleys and dense forests to barren, high-altitude plateaus. The views of the Himalayas, including the Dhaulagiri and Kanjiroba ranges, are spectacular.
Phoksundo Lake: One of the most iconic features of the trek, Phoksundo Lake is the deepest lake in Nepal. Its turquoise waters are surrounded by towering cliffs and snow-capped peaks, creating a breathtaking and serene environment.
High-Altitude Passes: The trek involves crossing several high-altitude passes, including the Numa La and Baga La passes. These passes offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Ancient Monasteries: The region is home to several ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, including Shey Monastery. These monasteries are not only religious centers but also important cultural and historical sites.
Remote Villages: Trekking through remote villages such as Ringmo provides insight into the traditional lifestyle of the Dolpo Pas. These villages are characterized by their traditional Tibetan-style houses and unique cultural practices.

Challenges and Preparation

The Upper Dolpo Trek is considered moderate to challenging due to its high altitude and rugged terrain. Trekkers need to be in good physical condition and should be prepared for a range of weather conditions. Acclimatization is essential to prevent altitude sickness, and trekkers should be prepared for both cold temperatures and intense sun exposure.

Permits are required for the trek, including the Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. These permits are necessary to access the restricted and protected areas of Dolpo.

Cultural and Environmental Responsibility

Respect for local culture and the environment is crucial during the trek. Trekkers should be mindful of local customs, seek permission before photographing religious sites, and participate in local rituals with respect. Additionally, following Leave No Trace principles is important to minimize the impact on the fragile environment of Dolpo. This includes packing out all waste, using environmentally-friendly products, and respecting wildlife and natural habitats.

Trip Highlights

Phoksundo Lake: Nepal's deepest lake, renowned for its striking turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrop.
Shey Monastery: An ancient Tibetan monastery with significant religious and historical artifacts.
Remote Villages: Traditional Tibetan-style villages like Ringmo and Tarakot offering authentic cultural experiences.
High-Altitude Passes: Challenging passes such as Numa La and Baga La with stunning panoramic views.
Diverse Landscapes: From lush valleys to high-altitude deserts, showcasing the region's varied and rugged terrain.

Day 1 :

Arrival Day in Kathmandu (1,300m)

Langtang Ri Trekking & Expedition representative will greet you in an airport & transfer you to your Hotel, after refreshment you will be picked from hotel lobby to office where you will be formally introduced to your Guide and the activities to be enjoyed over the next few days. We will also ask for your passport photographs and any other details required for your trek permits, at this stage.

Day 2 :

Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation (1,300m)

Today, morning we will ready after your breakfast to head on for our relaxing guided day trip to world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley and visit the highlights of Kathmandu and the surrounding areas. We take you to visit the pilgrimage sites of Hindus temple Pashupatinath, one of the most important shrine of Shiva temples on the subcontinent which is place of thousand of devotees, Saddhus (holy men/Baba), and can be seen the cremating body most of the times in the holy riverbank of Bagmati. Hundreds of monkeys are giggling with you and take a time to exploring surrounding area and visit Bouddhanath stupa an another pilgrimage centre which is most popular and important place for Buddhist. You can explore with rounding prayer wheel and flattering colorful flag with melodious chanting noise. After your lunch at Bouddha visit Swoyambhunath stupa also known as monkey temple covering wide range of area with highest point of Kathmandu valley and enjoy the 360 degrees of valley view. After exploring the surrounding areas visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square which is old royal palace of Kathmandu and can be seen lot of temple, architectures and Kumari (living goddess) and walk in a freak street and late afternoon back to hotel and evening briefing about your trip, what is your responsibility, what to do and does not in the trek? Introduce with our fellow trekking staff and chances to ask remaining question and simply relax at the hotel.

Day 3 :

Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (200m)

As per the flight schedule for Nepalgunj we transfer to the domestic airport for one and half hour scenic flight to Nepalgung. At Nepalgunj we will have time in the late afternoon or evening to have a look around the town which is situated on the southern Nepal border with India. Here it is quite hot and tropical in character.

Day 4 :

Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal & trek to Suligadh, 2-3 hrs (2,850m)

After a pleasant overnight at Nepalgunj, early morning transfer to airport for the 45 minute flight to Juphal (2,320m/7,610ft) over the Himalayan foothills, with views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks to the north. On arriving at Juphal our trekking staffs will receive you, who have walked all the way from Nepalgunj with the camping gear and food supply taking 5-6 days. Here at Juphal a short 2-3 hrs walk from the airstrip leads to our overnight camp at Dunai village (2,850m/9,348ft). Our first day adventure begins with an hour downhill walk through the village below the airstrip, then leading through the terraced fields to the Bheri River and the narrow gorge taking 2-3 hours to camp at Suligadh.

Day 5 :

Trek to Chhepka, 5-6 hrs (2,896m)

From the camp at Suligadh we trek to chhepka.

Day 6 :

Trek to jharna Hotel. 6-7 hr. (3,110m)

Trek to Jharna Hotel.

Day 7 :

Trek to Phoksundo Lake 4-5 hrs (3,500m)

Journey continues along the valley floor to the confluence of the Phoksundo and Pungmo Kholas. After crossing to the western side of the Phoksundo Khola on a wooden bridge, then the path follows the west bank of the Pungmo Khola which leads all the way to Phoksundo Lake 3,500m/11,480ft near Ringmo village. The path passes through a cedar forest and finally to Palam, a winter settlement used by the people of Ringmo village. The houses here are almost buried in the sandy soil. From here our route heads up to open country, at an altitude of around 3,350m/10,988ft. From the ridge one can see the distant views of Phoksundo Lake and a spectacular 300m/984ft high waterfall, one of the highest in Nepal. After a brief stop here with the great views, finally the walk descent through birch forests to the upper reaches of the Phoksundo Khola, and then to the picturesque settlement of Ringmo with its mud plastered chortens and mani walls. From here it is a short walk to the shores of Phoksundo Lake for the overnight at camp.

Day 8 :

Acclimatize at Phoksundo Lake (3,500m)

A well deserved rest day free from packing, at Phoksundo we can go for a short hike to the village of Ringmo and its Tibetan Buddhist Monastery is well worth a visit.

Day 9 :

Trek to Sallaghari, 7-8 hrs (3,750m)

Trek to Sallaghari.

Day 10 :

Trek to Khang la Phedi. 6 - 7 Hrs (4,715m)

Trek to khang la phedi

Day 11 :

Trek to Shey Gompa via Kang-La pass, 7-8 hrs (4,160m)

Morning walk leads up to a steep climb littered with slate towards the pass. The climb is quite strenuous, especially on the slate screed. From the top of Kang-la 5,360m/17,581ft, there are excellent views down upon a large valley which is bisected by a gushing river. On descending steeply to the valley floor, then the path leads a long meandering trek along the banks of the river, crossing and re-crossing it several times. There are mud caves lining the hills overlooking the river and we pass through meadows where hairy yaks, hundreds of sheep and domestic mountain goat (Chengra) can be found grazing as well near the odd nomadic hut of the herders. A red chorten heralds our arrival at Shey Gompa 4,500m/14,760ft where a quaint wooden, log bridge leads up to our destination at Shey Gompa compound for our overnight camp.

Day 12 :

Acclimatize at Shey Gompa the crystal monastery (4,500m)

Another well earned rest day for local hike around Shey meaning crystal, this monastery is also known as the Crystal Mountain (well described in Peter Matthissen classic novel Snow Leopard). The lama of Shey resides at a red hermitage known as Tsakang gompa which is north of Shey. It is rather a retreat than a monastery. Tsakang had been a meditation centre of many famous lamas from Tibet. Shey Gompa belong to the Chaiba community, followers of great saint Padmasambhava, known as Guru Ringpoche and Kagyu sects. It was the first Kagyupa monastery and its founder was the lama Tenzing Ra-Pa, built during 11th century. Shey is famous for its ancient pre-Buddhist culture the Bon Po. In Dolpo the ancient Tibetan way of life combines animism with the teaching of Buddha. Drutup Yeshe first introduced Buddhism in the Dolpo valley. Hundreds of years ago he came to Dolpo encountering a wild people whose supreme God was a ‘fierce mountain and nature spirit’. Crystal Mountain is to the east of Shey gompa it is one of the strangest mountain, as its contorted cliffs are laced with quartz and embedded with a rich variety of marine fossils. Shey Gompa stands above the confluence of Kangjunala and Yeju Nala River. Near the confluence there is a group of prayer mills turned by water wheels. Each year people from all over Dolpo region travel great distances to attend the festival at Shey and to complete the circuit of Crystal Mountain. This is an amazing trip to here that certainly makes this trek as special as only few Westerners have ever ventured up to Shey gompa.

Day 13 :

Trek to Namgun via Sela ( gela ) La Pass. 6-7 Hrs (4,600m)

Trek to Namgun via sela / gela pass.

Day 14 :

Trek to Saldang, 4-5 hours (3,770m)

On leaving the Namduna Gaun our route leads to a climb up a scree slope. Further on it begins a long traverse along some dusty barren mountains. After 3-4 hours of hard climb, Saldang 3,620m/ 11,874ft appears below on a plateau high above the Nam Khongmala. It has a picturesque appearance. Saldang is the largest village of the inner Dolpo area. Though the village lies at about the same altitude as Ringmo it is totally different then Ringmo, a Himalayan village is situated below the tree line while Saldang belongs to the arid zone of the Trans-Himalayan Tibetan plateau. The village stretches for nearly two kilometers on an open slope. Saldang consists of five villages having about eighty well built houses with nearly six hundred people. Saldang is a prosperous village not only agriculturally but also for its strategic location on a trade route to Tibet. After the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959, trade with Tibet was virtually stopped. It has been restored to some extent through the barter system by which Tibetan salt reaches mid-Nepal. The Drokpa people from the western plains of Tibet collect salt from the dried lakes north of Tsangpo.

Day 15 :

Trek from saldang to Rakyo. 6-7hr. (4,200m)

Trek from Saldang to Rakyo.

Day 16 :

Trek from Rakyo to Jyanta La phedi. 7hr (4,700m)

Trek from Rakyo to Jyanta La Phedi.

Day 17 :

Trek to Dho-Tarap( via Jyanta La 5220m). 7-8 hr. (3,945m)

Trek to Dho Tarap via Jyanta La.

Day 18 :

Trek to Nawarpani . 6-7hr. (3,475m)

After breakfast we continue walking up to the gorge of the Tarap River, rising high above on a trail built out from steep slopes. The walk is quite exciting as the valley becomes narrow gorge that in some places you can jump from one side to another. Descend to Chyugur Khola. Sometimes the path vanishes for a while, making our own path across stone slabs fitted on logs in between the walls which act as a bridge.

Day 19 :

Trek to Laisi Camp. 7-8 Hrs (2,775m)

Trek to Laisi Camp.

Day 20 :

Trek to Tarakot. 5-6 Hrs (2,540m)

Trek to Tarakot.

Day 21 :

Trek to Dunai. 5-6 Hrs (2,140m)

Trek to Dunai.

Day 22 :

Trek to Juphal. 4 Hrs (2,475m)

Trek to Juphal.

Day 23 :

Flight (Juphal - Nepalgunj - Kathmandu) (1,300m)

Morning Flight Juphal - Nepalgunj - Kathmandu.

Day 24 :

Extra Day in Kathmandu (1,300m)

Extra Day in kathmandu.

Day 25 :

International Departure (1,300m)

International Departure.

General Information

Region:
Upper Dolpo lies in the northwest of Nepal, bordering Tibet, in the Dolpa district. It is known for its rugged terrain, dry landscapes, high-altitude passes, and deep valleys. This region is remote, with limited modern amenities, offering trekkers a raw, authentic adventure.

Maximum Elevation:
The highest point on this trek is the Jyanta La Pass at 5,220 meters. The trek involves several other high-altitude passes, including the Numa La and Kang La, which are both over 5,000 meters.

Trekking Grade:
The Upper Dolpo Trek is strenuous and physically demanding, requiring a high level of fitness and experience in trekking. Trekkers will face long days, challenging ascents, and descents at high altitudes. Proper acclimatization is necessary.

Best Season:
The best time to trek Upper Dolpo is in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer clear skies, stable weather, and moderate temperatures. Winters (December to February) are harsh and not recommended, while the monsoon season (July and August) brings heavy rains that make the trails difficult and unsafe.

Permits and Regulations

Permits Required:
Trekking in Upper Dolpo requires several permits due to its status as a restricted area. These permits help preserve the cultural heritage and natural environment of the region.

Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit: This is mandatory and costs USD 500 for the first 10 days. For every additional day, it costs USD 50 per day.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): The trek also passes through parts of the Annapurna Conservation Area. The ACAP permit costs NPR 3,000 for foreigners and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals.
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card: A TIMS card is required to ensure the safety of trekkers and costs NPR 2,000 per person.

Trekkers should carry a copy of their permits at all times as they may be requested by local authorities. These permits are non-refundable and must be obtained in advance from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu.

Accommodations and Meals

Accommodation:
Along the Upper Dolpo Trek, accommodations are primarily in teahouses and lodges. These are basic, with limited facilities, but provide a warm bed and meals. In some areas, especially at higher altitudes, camping may be required due to the lack of infrastructure.

Teahouses/Lodges: These are simple lodgings, offering shared rooms with basic beds, blankets, and sometimes electricity (solar power).
Camping: In the more remote areas where teahouses are unavailable, organized camping with tents, sleeping bags, and cooking facilities is provided.

Meals:
Meals on the trek are typically simple but hearty, catering to the nutritional needs of trekkers. Meals usually consist of:

Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, toast, pancakes, or Tibetan bread with tea or coffee.
Lunch: Dal Bhat (lentils with rice), noodles, soup, and vegetables.
Dinner: Dal Bhat, pasta, momos (dumplings), stews, or fried rice.

Food availability becomes more limited as you ascend higher, so it’s essential to be prepared for a simple diet, especially at higher altitudes.

Health and Fitness

Fitness Level:
The Upper Dolpo Trek requires trekkers to be in excellent physical condition. Prior trekking experience at high altitudes is strongly recommended. Trekkers should be prepared for long days of hiking (6-8 hours daily) with significant altitude gains and losses.

Acclimatization:
This trek involves ascending to high altitudes, where the risk of altitude sickness is significant. Proper acclimatization is vital. It’s essential to follow the itinerary and include rest days for acclimatization. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, nausea, and dizziness, and in severe cases, immediate descent and medical attention are required.

First Aid:
It’s advised that trekkers carry a personal first-aid kit, including medication for altitude sickness, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, basic supplies like bandages, antiseptic creams, and blister treatment should be included.

Vaccinations:
Trekkers should consult their doctor for recommended vaccinations before traveling to Nepal. Common vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus, and rabies. It’s also advisable to carry medication for altitude sickness (Diamox or acetazolamide).

Insurance:
Comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical evacuation, and helicopter rescue is mandatory. In the case of altitude sickness or injury, helicopter evacuations are often the only way to reach a medical facility, and these are expensive without insurance.

Environmental and Cultural Responsibility

The Dolpo region is both environmentally fragile and culturally significant. Visitors are expected to follow ethical trekking guidelines and practice responsible tourism.

Leave No Trace:
Trekkers should follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize their environmental impact. This includes carrying out all waste, using environmentally friendly products, and avoiding damage to the natural environment.

Respecting Local Culture:
Dolpo is home to Tibetan Buddhist communities that maintain traditional customs and spiritual practices. Trekkers should be respectful of these traditions, which includes dressing modestly, asking for permission before taking photographs, and not disturbing religious sites.

Supporting Local Communities:
Hiring local guides, porters, and purchasing goods from local vendors helps support the economy of Dolpo. This is especially important as the region’s remoteness limits economic opportunities.

Transportation

Domestic Flights:
The trek starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by another flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal. These are small aircraft that provide breathtaking views of the Himalayas but are subject to weather delays. It is essential to plan for potential changes in your schedule due to unpredictable weather conditions.

Ground Transportation:
In Kathmandu, travelers will be transported to and from the airport by private vehicle. Jeep transfers may be required in some parts of the trek, especially if flying is delayed or canceled.

Guiding and Support

Guides and Porters:
A licensed, experienced guide is essential for the Upper Dolpo Trek due to the remoteness and difficulty of the terrain. Guides are well-versed in the local culture, geography, and history, ensuring a richer trekking experience. Porters are available to carry luggage, allowing trekkers to focus on the journey without the burden of heavy packs.

Guiding Method:
The trek is fully guided, with a professional guide leading the group through the rugged terrain. Guides also manage the logistics, including accommodation, permits, and transportation.

Group Size:
For safety and comfort, group sizes are typically kept small, ranging from 2 to 12 trekkers. This ensures personalized attention and a better overall experience for all participants.

Communication and Connectivity

Limited Connectivity:
Due to the remoteness of the Upper Dolpo region, mobile network coverage is limited or non-existent. Some teahouses may offer satellite phones for emergencies. Trekkers should inform their families that communication will be sporadic and often unavailable during the trek.

Privacy Policy

As part of booking and participating in the Upper Dolpo Trek, the following privacy policy applies:

Data Collection:
We collect personal information such as name, address, passport details, emergency contact information, and medical history. This data is essential for securing permits, ensuring safety, and organizing your trip.

Data Usage:
Your personal information is used exclusively for arranging the trek and complying with local regulations (e.g., obtaining permits). It will not be shared with third parties except for the purposes of trip facilitation.

Confidentiality:
All personal data is stored securely and is only accessible by authorized personnel involved in trip planning and management. We take privacy seriously and ensure that all sensitive information is protected.

Consent:
By booking this trek, you consent to the collection and use of your data for the purposes outlined above.

FAQs

1. How fit do I need to be for the Upper Dolpo Trek?
You need to be in excellent physical condition. The trek involves long days at high altitudes, often over rugged terrain.

2. What kind of food is available?
Food is simple but filling, with staples like Dal Bhat, noodles, and soup. As you ascend higher, food becomes more basic.

3. What if I get altitude sickness?
Guides are trained to recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness. If you experience any signs, your guide will manage the situation, which may involve descending to a lower altitude.

4. Can I use a satellite phone during the trek?
Satellite phones may be available in some lodges for a fee. However, trekkers should not rely on consistent communication during the trek.

5. What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation policies vary depending on the service provider. It is recommended to review the terms at the time of booking.

Upper Dolpo Trek-25 Days

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Map

Essential information