Quick questions? Email Us
Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo Trek

Nepal
5
25 Days 24 Nights
$3700
Our Offer Price

$3380

Save Upto $320

Group Discount

  • No. of PersonsPrice per Person
  • 2-4 PaxUS $ 3380
  • 5-9 PaxUS $ 3170
  • 10-14 PaxUS $ 3130
  • 15-20 PaxUS $ 3100
  • 21 & Above PaxUS $ 3080
Best time to visit Autumn (September to November)Autumn (September to November)
Transportation  - -
Difficulty StrenuousStrenuous
Maximum Altitude 4000m
Duration 25 Days25 Days
Activities TrekkingTrekking

Trip Overview

Upper Dolpo Trek

The Upper Dolpo walk is arguably the most beautiful walk in Nepal, taking you through one of the most remote areas between the Dhaulagiri mountain ranges and the Tibetan plateau. Prepare to discover the undiscovered paradise nestled in the shadow of the magnificent Himalayas—a desolate region with breathtaking vistas. Dolpo is a stunning location northwest of the Karnali region, which is the most remote and rugged area of Nepal. It is the ideal location to appreciate the natural beauty of the Bheri, Suligad, and Rupagad river basins with their small and huge cascades, as well as the snow-capped mountains to the north, despite its remoteness. Approximately 197 species of birds and 32 species of mammals can be found living in the isolated, untouched forests and vegetation of the Dolpo region. Beautiful Himalayan animals, such as Musk Deer, Himalayan Blue Sheep, and the uncommon Snow Leopard, may be seen while traveling.

You can view the movie “Himalaya” as a guide if you’re unsure of what this place might be like. Filming for the 1999 Oscar-nominated Himalaya took place in Nepal’s Dolpo region. Trekking in the Upper Dolpo region provides a chance to discover some of the world’s least known and uncharted territories, which is why it’s called the “forbidden kingdom.” Foreigners are not allowed to enter the kingdom, but you can visit this area with a costly and restricted permit. Regarding the splendor of this area, authors David Snelgrove, Peter Matthiessen, and George Schaller have all written about the Upper Dolpo region in their books, “The Snow Leopard,” “Himalayan Pilgrimage,” and “Stones of Silence.”

Starting in Juphal, the Upper Dolpo Trek travels through a variety of stunning landscapes to discover the enormous mountain ranges. To see the breathtaking Phoksundo Lake at Ringmo Village, which is located inside the Phoksundo National Park, you must traverse Numa La Pass at 5,190 meters. The Upper Dolpo Trek is remarkable not only for its biodiversity and natural beauty, but also for the distinct cultural and social aspects it shares. The inhabitants of this area are of Tibetan descent, and they continue to follow their archaic way of life. The Pre Buddhist Bon Po religion is still practiced by the locals. Situated at the foot of Crystal Mountain, Shay Gompas is a stunning monastery and is also considered the spiritual hub of Upper Dolpo. Every year, a large number of pilgrims come here to practice Kora.

Itinerary

01

Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) Kathmandu.

After a cordial reception to greet you, you will be taken to the hotel. Upon arrival, our airport representative will provide a brief explanation of the program. Spend the night in the hotel.

Accomodation Hotel
02

Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour

exploring the Kathmandu Valley’s world heritage monuments, including as Pasupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Darbar Square. hotel stay for the night with breakfast included.

Accomodation Hotel
03

Flight Kathmandu-Nepalgunj

You usually need to take a plane to Nepalgunj before you can travel to Dolpa. Situated in the lowlands of Terai, Nepalgunj is a sweltering hot city in south-western Nepal, only 8 km from the Indian border. The regions’ cultures are closer to those of India than those of highland Nepal.

Take a spin in the town on a cycling rickshaw. As you pass the bustling bazaar, you’ll notice colorful people traveling to and from the Indian border in horse-drawn carts. One of the most significant Hindu temples in Nepal is Bageshowri, which is also well worth a visit. hotel stay for the night with breakfast included.

Accomodation Hotel
04

Flight Nepalgunj-Juphal (2475 m), walk to Chhepka (2838 m) Duration: 6 hrs

Juphal is only a 35-minute flight away, crossing precipitous mountain ranges and offering stunning views of the snow-capped peaks. Juphal airfield promises an amazing landing because it’s only a gravel runway surrounded by mountains. You enter a whole other universe when you step off the plane.

You travel from a sweltering metropolis in the plains to a tiny mountain community nestled in the heart of the Himalaya, where the fresh, chilly air welcomes you. You descend from Juphal via a narrow trail that passes through wheat and vegetable fields to the Thuli Bheri River, which you will then continue to follow. The Dhim Bridge, a large iron suspension bridge measuring 99 meters in length, serves as the Shey Phoksundo National Park (SPNP) entry. Having been founded in 1984, the largest national park in Nepal is called SPNP and spans 3,555 km².

Its goals are to preserve the Tibetan kind of flora and fauna as well as the Trans-Himalayan ecosystem. A buffer zone, consisting of 1,349 km², was established around the park in 1998. Local communities and the park share management of this region. The entrance price is 1000 NPR, with the exception of individuals from SAARC nations who just need to pay 100 NPR. You might have a tea break at the little settlement of Suligad, which is right next to the entrance. Spend the night in a tented camp with full board provided.

The route now parallels the Suli Khola River. You have a partial view of the Dhaulagiri Range behind you. Along the journey, you’ll pass through little settlements like Sangta (2520 m) and Kageni (2413 m), where you can stop for lunch or tea, or perhaps spend the night. In Sangta, bees produce honey.

It’s a nice spot to have tea and honey! As you have your tea, you can watch the bees entering and leaving the tree-trunk-constructed beehives. You enter the woodland right before Sangta. It’s a lovely stroll beside the untamed river, which is occasionally a stunning emerald green.

The trail winds by small bamboo woods and walnut trees, and is bordered by pine trees such as spruce, fir, juniper, and cypress. The high rocky slope at the other side of the river rises sharply and is also dotted with pine trees. You arrive to Chhepka, a tiny village encircled by wheat and millet fields, at the end of the day. Spend the night in a tented camp with full board provided.

Accomodation Hotel
05

Chhepka to Chunuwar/Amchi Hospital (3110 m) Duration: 6 hrs

The trail winds through stunning pine forests interspersed with birches, shrubs, and other broadleaf species. It travels continuously alongside the river through mostly flat Nepal, with a few more challenging ascents and descents.

The valley becomes extremely narrow at certain points, and on both sides, there are strikingly sheer rocks that loom above you. Along the route, you’ll come across locals hauling about merchandise on their mules or dzopas, which are crossbreeds between yaks and cows. You pass the settlement of Rechi, where there is a camping area, after around four hours. A tiny teashop is located on the other side of the bridge.

On the other side of the bridge, the trail goes on. Chunuwar is another two hours away. You may find the Amchi Hospital in the vicinity of Chunuwar. It’s worth visiting this fascinating location. Actually, it’s more of a clinic that the locals use frequently. A physician with training in traditional Tibetan medicine, known as an Amchi, is also, without exception, a lama (monk). With a millennium of history, Tibetan medicine employs diagnostic methods like urine and pulse analysis.

Herbal and mineral-based medicines are utilized in conjunction with physical therapies such as Tibetan acupuncture for treatment. The Amchi Hospital displays a variety of herbs and minerals that are utilized in traditional medicine. When they are sick, the majority of Dolpa residents would rather see the Amchi than a standard physician. We would be happy to receive a donation to continue this tradition. Spend the night in a tented camp with full board provided.

Accomodation Hotel
06

Trek to Ringmo/Phoksundo Lake (3733 m) Duration: 3 hrs

Today’s hike to Ringmo and Phoksundo Lake is only a short one. It takes around two hours and involves a lengthy, occasionally steep ascent. The Phoksundo Waterfall, also known as Suligad Waterfall, is Nepal’s tallest waterfall at 167 meters. It is located right before the summit. You get your first glimpse of Phoksundo Lake from the pass.

The trail descends till it approaches the river, which you then proceed to cross to arrive at Ringmo. Charming is the village of Ringmo. This is where the Bonpo faith is practiced. Although Bonpo is much older than Buddhism, having existed for thousands of years, the two are connected.

More than 18,000 years ago, Buddha Tonpa Shenrab Miwo founded the religion. It is thought that Dolpa was formerly the capital of the Bon monarchy, known as Zhang Zhung, which ruled over a large portion of modern-day Western and Northwestern Tibet as well as its environs. This is because Dolpa is still home to a sizable population of Bonpo practitioners. After the Buddhist kingdom of Tibet conquered Zhang Zhung in the 7th century, Bonpo virtually vanished. Nonetheless, Tibetan culture incorporated a lot of Bon customs. Spend the night in a tented camp with full board provided.

Accomodation Hotel
07

Ringmo/Phoksundo Lake (3733 m), free day

Having an extra day in Ringmo is crucial since your body requires time to adjust to the higher altitude. The Phoksundo Lake is an ideal location for a free day due to its breathtaking beauty. Spend the night in a tented camp with full board provided.

Accomodation Hotel
08

Ringmo/Phoksundo Lake to Chunemba (3639 m) Duration: 5 hrs

You are now inside Inner Dolpo’s restricted area. You travel the well-known Demons Trail from Eric Valli’s stunning film Himalaya (Caravan), which depicts the lives of the Dolpa people who ride their yaks over treacherous passes carrying salt from Tibet in exchange for lowland grain.

One of the yaks falls into the lake on this trail during the salt caravan scene in the movie. The walk is breathtaking, rising far above the lake. It becomes exceedingly narrow at several places because of landslides. Ascending to a hill, the walk offers breathtaking views of Ringmo Lake, the deep green pine forests, and the snow-capped Norbung Kang peak (6085 m) to the south.

Now there’s a gentle descent to the northern bank of the lake, a nice spot for lunch. Subsequently, the path ascends via a spacious valley, traversing multiple streams. The snow-capped Kanjirowa Himal (6612 m) with its flanks and summits are magnificently visible from your location.You reach Chuneba, also known as Lakeside Camp, an alpine location surrounded by junipers and a nice spot to camp. Spend the night in a tented camp with full board provided.

Accomodation Hotel
09

Chunemba to Snowfields Camp (4400 m) Duration: 7 hrs

At this point, the Phoksundo Valley narrows significantly and has steep rock walls on both sides. There are several creeks that you must cross. You exit the main valley and enter a tiny gorge after about thirty minutes.

It’s a protracted ascent through the valley with sharp sides. The campground is located near Snowfields Camp, which Peter Mathiesson named after his well-known book The Snow Leopard. You can find it tomorrow at the base of the pass that will lead you into the center of Inner Dolpo. Spend the night in a tented camp with full board provided.

Accomodation Hotel
10

Trek to Shey Gompa (4310 m) via Kang La (5375 m) Duration: 6 hrs

Reaching Kang La (5350 m), also known as Ngadra La in the local dialect, requires an exhausting 2.5-hour climb over a dusty trail. The pass is marked by prayer flags and cairns. Because snowfall is common on the north side of the pass, the descent can be a little challenging.

For the first forty-five minutes, the descent is rather steep; however, it then becomes more moderate for the next three hours, till Shey Gompa. As you approach, you pass mani walls with red and white chortens. Shey Gompa is a small village consisting of only a few dwellings and the gompa, or monastery, of course.

Beneath the Crystal Peak, near the meeting point of two rivers, lies a little grassy plain that is home to the 11th-century Gompa. It is reported that a Tibetan Buddhist came to build it while riding a flying snow lion. Shey Gompa is sometimes referred to as the spiritual center of Dolpa and is a truly magnificent area.

Hundreds of pilgrims visit the gompa and complete a kora (clockwise circle) around Crystal Peak each year. The looks and clothing of the locals readily identify them as direct descendants of the Tibetan people.

The women are dressed in black gowns and accessorized with vibrant yak wool aprons. Guys dress in large coats, with one sleeve hanging down. Spend the night in a tented camp with full board provided.

Accomodation Hotel
11

Rest day Shey Gompa (4310 m)

You can visit the Kagyupa school of Buddhism’s Tsakang Gompa (4575 m) on this day. This gompa also makes an appearance in the film Himalaya. Perched on a crimson, rocky incline, lies an astounding location. A portion of the route to Tsakang Gompa is the same path that pilgrims use to perform a Kora of the Crystal Peak.

In these places, flocks of blue sheep are likely to be seen. Since hunting blue sheep is prohibited by Shey Gompa’s abbot, there are a lot of them living here. Moreover, your chances of spotting a snow leopard are highest in these areas. Spend the night in a tented camp with full board provided.

Accomodation Hotel
12

Shey Gompa to Namgung (4430 m) via Shey La (5000 m) Duration: 6 hrs

Today there’s another pass to cross, the 5000-meter-high Shey La, also known as Gelu La. A little valley is traversed during the ascent to the pass. The dry Tibetan Plateau, which appears to go on forever, can be seen well to the north from the pass.

Mustang is visible to the east. The Namgung pastures are reached after a protracted descent from the pass. There are a few fields dotted around the countryside, frequently with a large Tibetan tent erected on them because the fields are too far away from the settlement to visit every day.

The inhabitants of Namgung are incredibly amiable and transparent. A warm Tashi Delek, or greeting from Tibet, is always met with a broad smile. Spend the night in a tented camp with full board provided.

Accomodation Hotel
13

Namgung to Saldang (4060 m) Duration:3 hrs

Today is a quick trekking day. Trailhead: The trail climbs high over Namgung Khola (River) and then drops sharply to Saldang hamlet. The biggest settlement in Inner-Dolpo is called Saldang. Encircled by fields, the village is a traditional agricultural community that is spread out. Among the few crops that can thrive in this desolate terrain are potatoes, barley, and buckwheat.

In addition, people survive through commerce and the food that the yak provides—cheese, meat, and wool. Saldang lies near the border with Tibet, and it is a stop on various salt trade caravan routes. In Inner-Dolpo, there is a century-old custom of exchanging salt for rice and grains. Saldang’s population is semi-nomadic.

They hike in the hills with their herds of sheep and yaks during the warm months. The Drokpa, the pure nomadic people of Dolpa, are the ones who would be better off handling this labor. In these places, you can occasionally spot a Drokpa camp. Spend the night in a tented camp with full board provided.

Accomodation Hotel
14

Saldang to Sibu (4200 m) Duration: 5 hrs

The Namgung Khola leads southward, past small settlements like Namdo en route to Sibu, which is a quite easy hike. Terraced fields of barley encircle the settlements. You can see how significant Buddhism is to the people of Inner Dolpo as the trail passes by numerous Mani walls, chortens, and few Gompas. Here, Buddhism is ingrained in every facet of peoples’ lives. Sleeping at a tented camp and receiving full board meals

Accomodation Hotel
15

Sibu to Lagmo Che (4570 m) Duration:4 hrs

The route begins with a short section that follows the river. Raka is your final settlement to pass. This leads you into a wide, populated valley. Beware of blue sheep in this area. Moreover, you might possibly spot a snow leopard… Trekking for two hours brings you to a meadow at around 4570 m, where yaks frequently graze. The road then veers away from the river and climbs sharply. Lagmo Che is the base camp for the Jeng La ascent. overnight stay in a tented camp with all meals provided.

Accomodation Hotel
16

Lagmo Che to Tokyu (4209 m) via Jeng La (5110 m) Duration: 7 hrs

After almost two hours of difficult climbing, one can reach Jeng La, the next pass at 5,110 meters. A breathtaking view of the Dhaulagiri (8167 m) and numerous other snow-capped mountains can be seen from the pass. You descend into the Tarap Valley after crossing the pass.

You arrive at the first community of humans after Raka, the dispersed village of Tokyu (4209). According to some, Tokyo is the world’s tallest permanent habitation. The gorgeous statue of Maitreya, the Future Buddha, is one reason to visit the Gompa. Spend the night in a tented camp with full board provided.

Accomodation Hotel
17

Tokyo to Dho Tarap (4080 m) Duration: 2 hrs

Dho Tarap is easily accessible. The Cristal Mountain School, which educates kids from Dho and the neighboring areas, is along the route that you travel through. One French NGO is funding it. Visit the school if you would like; the teachers will be happy to give you a tour. To Dho, it takes roughly 30 minutes from the school.

A gorgeous gate, Chorten, is located at the entryway. Dho’s population is descended directly from Tibetans as well. The majority of Dho women wear bracelets made of large shells, and some have exquisite headpieces made of silver and turquoise, in addition to their traditional black gowns and vibrant aprons.

The majority of men wear long hair styled after the Tibetan Khampas, with a red ribbon in it. In addition, they are wearing a long coat, one sleeve of which is hanging down. It’s easy to get in touch with folks in Dho since they are really nice. Considering how close the Cristal Mountain School is, younger people do speak some English.

Situated between fields, Dho Tarap is a conventional farming community. For plowing the land, yaks are employed. There are not many crops that can be grown here, like potatoes, barley, and buckwheat were in the other villages you encountered. Presently, however, people can also cultivate some green crops thanks to modest greenhouses.

In addition, trade and the food the yak provides for the populace sustains them. With their small windows and flat roofs full with firewood, the dwellings are built in the traditional Tibetan style from stones collected in the river valley. Dinner and lodging on a full board basis for the night in a tent.

Accomodation Hotel
18

Dho Tarap to Sisaul (3750 m) Duration:4 hrs

Once again, today is short, so you have plenty of time to spend the morning exploring Dho.
As you leave Dho Tarap, several mani walls and tiny Chortens may be seen. The route descends in the direction of the Tarap Khola. You can gradually notice how the landscape is changing. There are a few shrubs emerging,

There has been some greening. There is a little pass that you must climb to just before you reach Sisaul. The valley narrows once the pass is passed. Sisaul is a short descent away and offers a nice camping adjacent to a tent-hotel. You have the option of camping here or at a location a little bit down. Spend the night in a tented camp with full board provided.

Accomodation Hotel
19

Sisaul to Laina Odar (3370 m) Duration: 7-8 hrs

You climb to a tiny pass with a lovely Chorten not long after leaving Sisaul. You will once again glimpse the first trees after the pass. The majority of your trek is through a river valley, with tall rocks rising above you on both sides.

This is your final opportunity to see the snow leopard or blue sheep, and the scenery is still quite bleak. The hike from Sisaul to Nawarpani takes roughly three to three and a half hours on foot. The trail descends steadily. There are sections where the road is exquisitely chiseled into the rock, giving the impression that you are walking through a three-sided tunnel.

Following Nawarpani, the terrain rapidly becomes greener and the path occasionally passes through fragrant pine forests. It’s a somewhat straightforward stroll along a sizable path that occasionally rises quite high above the river. You arrive in Laina Odar, where a tent hotel by the river is situated. Spend the night in a tented camp with full board provided.

Accomodation Hotel
20

Laina Odar to Lingdo (2391 m) Duration: 5 hrs

The trail descends very steeply from Laina Odar to Laisicap (2772 m). A portion of the trail winds through woodlands, and there are massive pine trees—mostly spruce, fir, juniper, and cypress—all crammed into the sheer rock faces. There are moments when the river is quite low.

It takes roughly three hours to walk to Laisicap. At Laisicap, a 120-meter-long suspension bridge that is elevated over the Thuli Bheri River allows you to cross it. About forty-five minutes of fairly steep descents are on the trail.

After that, the walk is comparatively easy and consists mostly of flat sections as it progressively descends. The scenery is striking and occasionally incredibly verdant. There are junipers and other pine trees scattered among the jagged rocks.

If you’re lucky, you might be able to spot trooping big grey monkeys here. You are facing the stunning, snow-capped Kang Tokal (6294 m). As you approach Lingdo, you can make out the silhouettes of a few more towns, including Sarakot, perched atop a sheer cliff.

After Dho Tarap, these are the first villages you come across. You go by a few Chortens and Mani walls. The tiny community of Lingdo has one guesthouse and a campground. The residents of this area are the Trail’s, a Magar ethnic group who also practice Buddhism.

Accomodation Hotel
21

Lingdo to Dunai (2140 m) Duration: 5 hrs

Today’s walk is simple. The initial section traverses a rugged terrain. At times, the trail is extremely small and sculpted out of the rocks. A motorable road is intended to be constructed all the way to Dho Tarap.

It seemed like a significant task to walk here, and it will undoubtedly take several years. However, this could be a good excuse to visit Dolpa as soon as possible. You arrive at Bazar, a little settlement at 2427 meters, after roughly two and a half hours. After Bazar, the scenery becomes more verdant and occasionally resembles the Alps in Europe.

Pine trees, usually blue pine, dot the rocky slopes. You can see the snow-capped Kang Tokal (6294 m) at the horizon. The trail follows the Thuli Bheri River, with occasional stops at a few of buildings along its somewhat incline and descend way. The Dolpa District headquarters are located at Dunai.

With a population of roughly 2,500, the community is divided roughly equally between Hindus and Buddhists. The Dolpa Kendriya Gompa is a Buddhist monastery located up the hill that is well worth a visit. It is located on the river’s opposite bank, with a view of Dunai.

Constructed in 1998, the monastery is a part of the Nyingmapa lineage, which is the oldest branch of Buddhism. There is just one lama or monk. He will be pleased to open the monastery and give you a tour if he is present. Beautiful statues of Sakyamuni Buddha (also known as Gautama Buddha), the Kengyur, the Buddhist texts, and large thankas (cotton paintings depicting Buddha images) are all on display inside the Gompa. Every day, there are brief Pujas (prayer ceremonies) between 6-7 am and 6-7 pm.

 

Accomodation Hotel
22

Dunai to Juphal (2475 m) Duration: 4 hrs

Juphal is a short stroll away. You arrive at the stunning gate Chorten (stupa), the entrance to the VDC (Village Development Committee) Dunai, after traveling for almost 45 minutes. Beautiful Buddhist murals of mandalas and significant Buddhist figures may be seen inside the Chorten.

You pass the large suspension bridge made of iron, which you had to cross to enter Shey Phoksundo National Park on the first day. It takes roughly 2.5–3 hours to go to Juphal from the bridge. The first section crosses the little village of Kalagaonda on a wide path.

After that, you get off the main road and proceed along a narrow route that passes by wheat and barley fields dotted with walnut, peach, and apricot trees. The ascent to Juphal is somewhat steep. You drive past the Hindu village of Dangiwada just before you arrive. Juphal is a sizable village with a charming little bazaar that’s worth exploring for a while. Spend the night in a tented camp with full board provided.

Accomodation Hotel
23

Flight Juphal-Nepalgunj-Kathmandu

You take an early morning flight to Nepalgunj. The flight through the mountain valleys is particularly amazing in the beginning. You take a plane back to Kathmandu later that day. hotel stay for the night with breakfast included.

Accomodation Hotel
24

Leisure day in Kathmandu.

A day of leisure in Kathmandu. hotel stay for the night with breakfast included.

Accomodation Hotel
25

Departure

Departure

Trip Info

What’s Included in this tour

  • Airport transfers with ground transports in private vehicle
  • Traditional welcome on arrival
  • 04 nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
  • 01 nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Nepalgunj
  • 19 nights’ accommodation with Full Board at Local Lodge in Trek Route
  • All Transfer and sightseeing in Private A/C Deluxe vehicle as per Pax.
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Fee, Government taxes & office service charge
  • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner and tea/coffee) during the trek
  • The best twin sharing lodge (in the area) with attached bathroom during the trek
  • One guide (highly experienced, helpful and friendly), porter(s) (1 porter for 2 people/trekkers) and food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff during Trek
  • Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Juphal – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu round fare
  • All necessary permit including Upper Dolpa special permit
  • First aid medical kit
  • All applicable Hotel Taxas

What's Not included in this tour

  • Travel insurance
  • International airfare
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Cold drinks (coke, water, fanta, dew etc.)
  • Snacks and other personal expenses
  • Nepal entry visa which can be obtained easily at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (Recently taken 2 copies of passport-size photos are needed)
  • Hot shower during the trek
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Tips and gratuities for trekking staffs and drivers

Enquiry Form