Upper Dolpo Trek

A Journey Into Nepal’s Hidden Himalayan Kingdom

Upper Dolpo Trek is one of the most remote and high arid land. People are mixed of Pre Buddhist and Buddhist with preserved thousands of years old their own traditions. The life of upper Dolpo people is very hardy, they have handful of farms, which grown crops are not enough for 3 months of the year. They are depending on Yak husbandry and salt and grain Trade in Nepal and Tibet. Due to the globalization and world food their salt business decreased, before they use to supply salt in low land of Dolpo. Now another business opportunity Cordyceps Sinenses is golden business for these people.

Crystal Mountain is their holiest Peak and 11 Century Shey Gompa is their holiest monastery. For weeks Upper Dolpo Trek begins flying to Juphal via Nepalgunj. We should spend a night in Nepalgunj. The flight to Dolpo is only possible in the morning. We head toward lush jungle of Ringmo and the stunning blue Lake Phoksundo. After a day explore in this beautiful Lake, Gompas and villages we continue across the Kang La Pass to Upper Dolpo. Thousands of years old Shey Gompa is the major attraction of upper Dolpo Trek. The route crosses the Shey La Pass to the major upper Dolpo settlement of Saldang and the Jeng La Pass to Dho Tarap valley. We decent to Juphal airport and fly back to Kathmandu.

Trip Itinerary

Outline Itinerary

• Day 01: Afternoon Flight To Nepalgunj - Hotel

• Day 02: Flight To Juphal, Trek To Dunai (2000m) - Camp

• Day 03: Trek To Chhepka (2840m) - Camp

• Day 04: Trek To Amchi Hospital (3110m) - Camp

• Day 05: Trek To Phoksumdo Lake (3700m) - Camp

• Day 06: Exploration Day At Phoksumdo Lake - Camp

• Day 07: Trek To Phoksundo Khola (4200m) - Camp

• Day 08: Trek To Snowfield (4650m) - Camp

• Day 09: Cross Kang La (5,380m) To Shey Gompa (4400m) - Camp

• Day 10: Exploration Day At Shey Gompa And Holy Crystal Mountain - Camp

• Day 11: Cross Saldang La (5060m) To Namgung (4430m) - Camp

• Day 12: Trek To Saldang (3620m) - Camp

• Day 13: Trek To Sibu (4550m) - Camp

• Day 14: Trek To Jingla Phedi (4900m) - Camp

• Day 15: Cross Jing La Pass (5,200m) To Dho Tarap (4040m) - Camp

• Day 16: Explore Dho Tarap (4040m) - Camp

• Day 17: Trek To Tarap Khola (3800m) - Camp

• Day 18: Trek To Kani Gaun (3100m) - Camp

• Day 19: Trek To Tarakot (2500m) - Camp

• Day 20: Trek To Dunai (2200m) - Camp

• Day 21: Trek To Juphal (2350m) - Camp

• Day 22: Flight To Nepalgunj And To Kathmandu - Hotel

Cost Details

FAQ

1. Where is Upper Dolpo?

Upper Dolpo is a remote region in the northwest of Nepal, near the Tibetan border. It is located in Dolpa District within the Karnali Province, and much of the area lies within Shey Phoksundo National Park.

2. How difficult is the Upper Dolpo Trek?

The trek is considered very challenging due to:

• High altitudes (above 5,000m in several passes)

• Long trekking days (6–8 hours per day)

• Limited tea houses and food supplies

• Remote location with little infrastructure

3. What is the best time to trek in Upper Dolpo?

The ideal seasons are:

• Spring (April–June): Clear skies, moderate temperatures, and blooming wildflowers.

• Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, excellent visibility, and comfortable temperatures.

• Monsoon (July–August): Possible, as Dolpo lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas.

• Winter (December–March): Not recommended due to heavy snowfall and extreme cold.

4. Do I need a permit for Upper Dolpo?

Yes, several permits are required:

• Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit: $500 per person for the first 10 days, $50 per day afterward.

• Lower Dolpo Permit: $20 per week per person.

• Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit: $30 per person.

• You must trek in a group of at least two people with a registered guide.

5. How do I get to the starting point of the trek?

1. Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (1 hour).

2. Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (35 minutes).

3. Start trekking from Juphal.

Alternatively, an overland route from Kathmandu to Dolpa via Jeep and bus is possible but takes several days.

6. How long is the Upper Dolpo Trek?

• The standard trek takes 25–30 days.

• Shorter versions (around 18–22 days) are possible but require long trekking hours.

7. What is the highest point on the trek?

The highest point is Kang La Pass (5,360m / 17,585ft). Other high passes include:

• Saldang La (5,200m)

• Jeng La (5,110m)

8. What kind of accommodation is available?

• Mostly camping, as tea houses are rare in Upper Dolpo.

• Some basic lodges and homestays in lower regions (e.g., Ringmo, Saldang).

9. What type of food is available?

• In lower areas: Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables), noodles, and basic local food.

• In remote areas: Limited food choices; trekkers usually rely on camping meals.

• Carrying extra snacks and energy bars is recommended.

10. Is altitude sickness a risk?

Yes, altitude sickness is a major concern due to high passes. To prevent it:

• Acclimatize properly (rest days in places like Dho Tarap).

• Hydrate well and go slowly.

• Carry medication like Diamox (consult a doctor first).

11. Is a guide or porter necessary?

Yes, hiring a licensed guide is mandatory due to restricted area rules. A porter is highly recommended, especially for carrying camping gear.

12. What gear do I need for the trek?

• Clothing: Warm layers, waterproof gear, gloves, and down jacket.

• Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots.

• Sleeping Gear: High-altitude sleeping bag (rated -20°C or lower).

• Camping Equipment: If not hiring a trekking company.

• Other Essentials: Trekking poles, first aid kit, water purification tablets, solar charger.

13. Is travel insurance necessary?

Yes, high-altitude travel insurance covering medical evacuation is mandatory for this trek.

14. Can I charge my electronics during the trek?

• Charging is very limited after Dunai and Dho Tarap.

• Carry power banks and solar chargers.

15. Is WiFi or mobile network available?

• Lower regions: Limited mobile network (Ncell or NTC).

• Upper Dolpo: No network. Satellite phones are used for emergencies.

16. How much does the Upper Dolpo Trek cost?

The cost varies, but expect around $3,500–$5,500 per person, including:

• Permits

• Flights (Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Juphal)

• Guide and porter fees

• Food and accommodation

• Camping gear and logistics

17. What makes Upper Dolpo special?

• Remote and untouched beauty

• Ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture

• Shey Phoksundo Lake (Nepal’s deepest lake)

• Rare wildlife (Snow leopards, blue sheep, Himalayan griffons)

• Fascinating villages like Dho Tarap and Saldang

18. Can I do the trek independently?

No, trekking in Upper Dolpo requires at least two trekkers and a licensed guide due to its restricted status.

19. What are some alternative treks near Upper Dolpo?

• Lower Dolpo Trek (14–18 days) – Less expensive and slightly easier.

• Humla-Limi Valley Trek (18–22 days) – Remote Tibetan culture trek.

• Nar Phu Valley Trek (17–20 days) – Restricted area trek in Annapurna region.

20. What cultural aspects should I be aware of?

• Always ask permission before photographing locals.

• Respect Buddhist customs (walk clockwise around stupas and mani walls).

• Avoid giving money or gifts to children (donate to local schools instead).

Fixed Departure

Route Map

Gallery

Client Reviews