28 Days Upper Dolpo Trek
28 Days Upper Dolpo Trek
Upper Dolpo Trek to Jomsom is an incredible adventure that takes you through one of the most remote and untouched regions of Nepal. This trek offers a unique experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and ancient traditions of the Dolpo region.
The journey begins in Juphal, a small village in the Dolpo district, and follows a less-traveled trail that leads to the Upper Dolpo region. As you embark on this trek, you will be greeted with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and pristine lakes.
The Upper Dolpo region is known for its rugged terrain and challenging trails, making it a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts. The trek takes you through high mountain passes, such as the Numa La Pass (5,190m) and the Baga La Pass (5,070m), offering panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
One of the highlights of this trek is the opportunity to explore Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to the beautiful Phoksundo Lake. This turquoise-colored lake is the deepest lake in Nepal and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, making it a sight to behold. The park is also known for its diverse wildlife, including elusive snow leopards, blue sheep, and musk deer.
The Upper Dolpo region is also rich in cultural heritage, with numerous ancient monasteries and traditional villages scattered throughout the area. As you trek through these villages, you will have the chance to interact with the friendly locals and learn about their unique way of life. The people of Dolpo are deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism and have preserved their traditions for centuries.
The journey concludes in Jomsom, a vibrant town located in the Mustang district. Jomsom is famous for its apple orchards, traditional Thakali cuisine, and the stunning views of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
It is important to note that the Upper Dolpo Trek to Jomsom is a challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness and previous trekking experience. The remote nature of the region means that facilities along the trail are limited, so proper preparation and packing are essential.
Overall, the Upper Dolpo Trek to Jomsom is an extraordinary adventure that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and physical challenge. If you are seeking a trekking experience off the beaten path, this is the perfect journey for you.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel (1,400m)
On your arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by Sherpa Expedition and trekking staff and transferred to your respective hotels followed by a briefing regarding Upper Dolpo Jomsom Juphal Trek.
Day 2 : Explore Kathmandu & pre-trek briefing.
Today, we will spend the day sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley with our guide. We will visit Pashupatinath, which is regarded as the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal and where pilgrims worship Lord Shiva (situated on the banks of the holy Bagmati River), Bouddhanath, a Buddhist temple known as ‘Little Tibet’ and then on to Swayambhunath known as the Monkey Temple. From Swayambhunath we drive to Kathmandu’s famous Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and located in front of the old royal palace. Upon arriving back at your hotel you may have time to do some last-minute shopping around Thamel – the tourist hub of Kathmandu.
Day 3 : Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (9,00m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we travel to Pokhara via Prithvi Highway, a trip of around six to seven hours. Upon reaching Pokhara we can relax or take in some of the sights.
Day 4 : Pokhara Valley sightseeing
In the early morning we can take a hike to the hills and witness the sun rise over the Annapurnas and see, Machapuchare, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri Range, and across Pokhara valley. After returning to the hotel for breakfast we can head to Sarangkot where you can experience paragliding. After lunch your guide will take you to Bindabasini Temple, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, the Seti River gorges, to Tibetan refugee camps and high on the hill to the World Peace Pagoda and finally to the museum.
Day 5 : Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom & trek to Dhangarjung (3,175m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we will take a 20 minute scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom in the Mustang region. From Jomsom we follow the trail for about three hours on the banks of the Kali Gandaki (river) until we reach Dhangarjung where we will stay the night.
Day 6 : Trek from Dhangarjung to Sangda (3,710m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today the trail takes us through fir, birch and bamboo forests and along the trail pass Tibetan monasteries and other signs of Tibetan culture. We then climb towards Phoksundo Lake and Ringmo the starting point to Dolpo. We eventually reach a 3800m ridge where we have awesome views over the turquoise blue Phoksundo Lake after which we descend to Sangda where we stay the night.
Day 7 : Trek to Sangda Phedi (Tuchela, Niwar La Phedi (4,190m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we trek through the Kang Gopa Valley and climb to 4060m from where we have amazing views of Sonam Kang, Shey Shikar (6239m) and Kang Chunne (6443m). The trail is rugged and barren. We will camp overnight at Niwar La Phedi.
Day 8 : Trek from Niwar La Phedi to Yak Kharka (4,780m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
The trail today takes us through Niwar La Pass (5250m) and Tudje La Pass (5185m) from where we have some awesome in-your-face views of the mountains. After another three hours on the trail we reach Yak Kharka where we stay the night.
Day 9 : Trek from Yak Kharka to Chharka Village (4,110m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trail today initially takes us to Rakpa Village and then through Shey La Pass (5010m) and then we head down to Namgung Village. After passing Namgung Village we cross Dolma La Pass and then ascend a steep narrow path to Shey and then head to Chharka Village where we will camp overnight. We can also visit the local monastery, Tsakang Gompa.
Day 10 : Trek from Chharka to Chanla Phedi (4,530m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we will cross Shey La Pass at 5010m and descend for a while before climbing to Namjung Village and then on to Namjung Khola (river) and to Karang Village. We continue and head downhill to Torak Sumdo and then ascend to Yanger Gompa (3750m). We again descend to Mugoan Village and then ascend to Mushi La Pass (5030m) and then continue to Shimen Village (4010m), Pha (4090m) and on to Tinje Village. Finally we reach Chanla Phedi where we camp the night.
Day 11 : Trek from Chanla Phedi to Do Tarap (4,040m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
We will ascend to Charkala (4920m) and then descend into the valley. The trail today is undulating and becomes narrower. We continue until we reach Do Tarap where we camp overnight.
Day 12 : Exploration of Dho Tarap region.
Today we take time to explore the picturesque valley of Dho Tarap. Dho and Tarap are some of the highest altitude settlements in the world. The people here are Khampas from Tibet and follow their unique form of Buddhism, Bon Po. From this vantage point we have amazing views over the mountains to the west and the turquoise blue Shey Phoksundo Lake. Overnight we stay at Do Tarap.
Day 13 : Trek from Do Tarap to Pangjang Khola Dovan (4,480m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we climb higher through the valley to Tok-Khyu through the 5000m pass that offers some magnificent views of the surrounding peaks. We then descend to the Payon Khola (river) and then on to Namjung, Mungaon, Shimen, Tinje, Rakpa and Norbulung until we reach Pangjang Khola Dovan where we will camp overnight.
Day 14 : Trek from Pangjang Khola Dovan to Tinje Gaon (4,150m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The day begins as we descend to Musigaon and then through Lnag-La Pass and then head downhill for about four hours before reaching Tinje Gaon where we camp overnight.
Day 15 : Trek from Tinje Gaon to Shimen Gaon (3,870m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today the trail is mostly downhill for about six hours and along the way we may see yak caravans, horses and mules carrying goods. Tonight we will camp at Shimen Gaon.
Day 16 : Trek from Shimen Gaon to Koma (4,060m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we cross Shimen La Pass (4270m) and continue for about five hours before reaching Koma where we camp for the night.
Day 17 : Trek from Koma to Saldang (3,770m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we head north toward the Tibetan border walking through the Nankhang Valley and along the trail have views of Mt.Kanjiroba. We arrive at Saldang where we camp overnight.
Day 18 : Trek from Saldang to Shey Gompa (4,500m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we cross the high altitude Sela La Pass (5095) from where we have breathtaking views of the snow-clad peaks. We will camp overnight here.
Day 19 : A day to explore Shey Gompa.
Today we can explore this culturally and historically rich place and visit the ancient monastery. The Gompa (monastery) was built in 1665.
Day 20 : Trek from Shey Gompa to Lar Tsa (4,120m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Our trail today will last about two hours, at first crossing Kangla La Pass (5360m) and then descending to the river before reaching Lar Tsa where we will camp for the night.
Day 21 : Trek from Lar Tsa to Ringmo/Phoksundo Lake (3,730m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we head to the brilliant blue Phoksundo Lake which even at this altitude never completely freezes. The trek today is not so physically demanding. We will camp here overnight. This is truly worth the journey and is one of the highlights of this journey into Dolpo.
Day 22 : Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Sanduwa (3,038m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Passing through Ringmo we descend to Sanduwa along a trail that is situated between the rivers Kagmara Khola and Phoksundo Khola. There is also a national park and army checkpoint at Sanduwa. We will camp here overnight.
Day 23 : Trek from Sanduwa to Chhepka (2,680m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today it is all downhill as we leave the mountains behind us and follow the river heading south until we reach Chhepka where we will camp overnight.
Day 24 : Trek from Chhepka to Dunai (2050m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today the trail follows along the bank of the Bheri River. The trek should take us around four hours after which we will reach Dunai where we will camp for the night. The views of the mountains from here are memorable.
Day 25 : Trek from Dunai to Jhupal (2,345m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
This is our final day of trekking as we head to Jhupal where we will camp overnight.
Day 26 : Fly to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj. Overnight in a hotel
Today we fly to Nepalgunj and then on to Kathmandu (about 60 minutes). On arrival back at Kathmandu we will drop you back at your hotels where you can either sit back and relax or explore Thamel and find a bar to celebrate your epic journey.
Day 27 : Leisure day in Kathmandu.
Today is yours to spend as you wish. You may opt to explore the nearby towns of Basantapur, Patan, and Bhaktapur, or to do some last-minute shopping.
Day 28 : Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport.
Your adventure comes to an end today – but your memories will last a lifetime! Our company representative will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure and explore the most magnificent mountains of Nepal.
SERVICES
Cost Includes
- Airport pick up and drop by private car or microbus depending upon your group size.
- Four-night standard hotel in Kathmandu and one-night hotel in Pokhara with breakfast.
- Guided city tour as per the above program with private vehicles.
- Full board meal (veg./non veg.) during camping, prepared by our expert cook with tea & coffee.
- Twin sharing tented accommodation and other equipment during the camping trek. We will provide fully water proof two men tent, dining tent, kitchen tent, table with chairs, kitchen utensils, toilet tents, etc.
- A Government Licensed English speaking Guide during the trek, cook, kitchen helper, required number of porters, their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and medicines.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- First Aid medical kit will be available.
- Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by your Travel Insurance Company.
- Down Sleeping bags/Jackets, Walking Pole, and other necessary equipments during the trek. (If you don’t have you own).
- Upper Dolpo Permit, ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) permit and other required paper documents.
- Flight fare from Pokhara-Jomsom and Juphal-Nepalgunja-Kathmandu including airport departure taxes.
- All our Government Taxes tourist service charges and official expenses.
- Tourist bus from Kathmandu-Pokhara
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu & Pokhara - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- Kathmandu sightseeing monument entrance fees($30 USD per person)
- Excess baggage of more than 10 kg for Jomsom flight.
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
- Sleeping Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Duffel Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Waterproof windbreaker or windcheater
- Thermal underclothes
- Rain poncho
- Down jacket (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece or wool trousers
- Sun hat or scarf
- Trekking pants (two pairs)
- Mittens or woolen gloves
- Hiking socks (several pairs)
- Moisture-wicking shirts, including t-shirts
- Trekking shoes or boots with spare laces
- Flip-flops or sandals for relaxing in the evenings
- Underwear (several pairs)
- Swimsuit or swimming costume
- Sunglasses
- Headlamp or flashlight/torch
- Sleeping bag (Sherpa Teams can provide this for you)
- Trekking poles (if desired)
- Hiking backpack with a capacity of at least 40 liters
- Small lock for your backpack
- Reusable water bottles (at least two liters)
- Water purification tablets or filtration device
- Wash towel
- Basic first aid kit
Toiletries (tissues, toilet paper, moisturizer, lip balm, sunscreen, sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, a small mirror, toothbrush, toothpaste, glasses, contacts, etc.)
GOOD TO KNOW
Getting There & Away
Western Nepal is remote, making access more difficult than other parts of Nepal. First, you have to get to Nepalgunj, on the plains, and then to Juphal in Dolpo district.
Most people fly to Nepalgunj from either Kathmandu or Pokhara. From Nepalgunj, you then fly to Juphal. (It isn’t possible to fly directly to Juphal from Kathmandu, although expensive charter flights can be arranged from Pokhara.) Most organized tours will fly from Kathmandu. Keep in mind that the airport at Juphal is no more than a tiny mountain airstrip, where bad weather can often delay flights.
Nepalgunj is also accessible by road, but it is a long trip from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Roads are improving throughout Western Nepal, but Juphal is currently several days’ walk from the nearest road-head.
Permits & Regulations
Permits for Upper Dolpo are expensive and strictly enforced. You also need to purchase a permit for Lower Dolpo, which you pass through on your way to Upper Dolpo. On top of that, only 250 foreigners are permitted to enter Upper Dolpo each year.
Lower Dolpo: $10 USD per week
Upper Dolpo: $50 USD per day (10-day minimum)
There is also an Rs. 1000 entry fee to the Shey-Phoksundo National Park. As it’s mandatory to trek with a guide on an organized tour in Upper Dolpo, your tour operator will arrange all permits and these fees are generally included in the total cost of your trip.
Best Season
Like much of Nepal, the best time to visit Upper Dolpo is the spring (April to May) and the fall (October to November) when temperatures are pleasant, skies are the clearest, and there is minimal chance of snow at high altitudes. Late/early snow can affect this trek in April and November, making some passes impossible to cross. Phoksundo Lake, Shey Phoksundo National Park
Difficulty
Trekking in Upper Dolpo is considered strenuous. There are steep ascents, three passes above 5000 m., several nights spent above 3500 m. and some long trekking days of six hours or more. The fact that this is a camping trek adds to the physical challenge and discomfort of trekking in Upper Dolpo, and rest days are recommended.
This is not a beginner’s trek or one to attempt if it’s your first time in Nepal. But it will be a worthwhile challenge for experienced trekkers and repeat visitors to Nepal alike!
Accommodation & Meals
Most treks in Upper Dolpo are fully-catered camping treks given accommodation and food supplies are hard to come by along the trail. (Upper Dolpo is known to have food shortages.) Some basic teahouse/lodge accommodation is available in some villages, but shouldn’t be relied upon.
It is advised to take as many food provisions when trekking in Upper Dolpo (and anywhere in Western Nepal, in general). If participating in an organized trek (essential in Upper Dolpo), your food needs will be taken care of. It is still important to be mindful of the fact that restocking provisions can be challenging for guides and porters in this region, and that resources are scarce.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
How long does the Upper Dolpo Trek to Jomsom take?
The Upper Dolpo Trek to Jomsom typically takes around 20-28 days, depending on the trekking route and your pace. This duration includes acclimatization days, rest days, and time for exploration.
Is the Upper Dolpo Trek to Jomsom difficult?
Yes, the Upper Dolpo Trek to Jomsom is considered a challenging trek. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, high altitude passes, and rugged terrain. It requires a good level of fitness, prior trekking experience, and acclimatization to the altitude.
Do I need a permit for the Upper Dolpo Trek?
Yes, a special permit is required for the Upper Dolpo Trek. You will need both the Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit and the Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit. These permits are arranged by trekking agencies and are not available for independent trekkers.
When is the best time to do the Upper Dolpo Trek?
The best time to do the Upper Dolpo Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures. However, it is possible to trek in Upper Dolpo during the monsoon season (June to August) as well, though the trails may be wet and slippery.
What are the accommodation and food options during the trek?
Accommodation along the Upper Dolpo Trek is basic, with limited tea houses and guesthouses available in certain villages. Camping is also a common option for this trek. The food options are usually simple, consisting of local Nepali and Tibetan dishes, as well as some international options in larger villages.
Is altitude sickness a concern on the Upper Dolpo Trek?
Altitude sickness can be a concern on the Upper Dolpo Trek due to the high altitude passes and the remote nature of the region. It is important to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and ascend gradually to minimize the risk of altitude-related illnesses. It is recommended to consult with a doctor and trek with an experienced guide.
Are there any cultural considerations or customs to be aware of?
The Upper Dolpo region is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism, so it is important to respect the local customs and traditions. It is customary to walk clockwise around monasteries and religious sites, remove your shoes when entering temples, and dress modestly. It is also polite to ask for permission before taking photographs of the locals.
Can I do the Upper Dolpo Trek solo, or do I need a guide?
The Upper Dolpo Trek is a restricted area trek, which means that you need to trek with a registered guide and obtain the necessary permits. It is not allowed to trek solo in this region. Hiring a guide is recommended as they have local knowledge, can assist with logistics, and ensure your safety during the trek.
What equipment and gear do I need for the Upper Dolpo Trek?
You will need proper trekking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, a good quality sleeping bag, a backpack, a waterproof jacket, and trekking poles. It is also essential to carry a first aid kit, water purification tablets, and high SPF sunscreen.
Can I extend my trek from Jomsom to Annapurna Circuit?
Yes, it is possible to extend your trek from Jomsom to the famous Annapurna Circuit. Jomsom is a popular starting point for the Annapurna Circuit trek, and you can continue your journey from there. This extension allows you to explore more of the stunning Annapurna region and its diverse landscapes.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
Based On 4 Reviews
Darcy Darcy
Germany
October 10, 2023
Supporting Local Communities
By choosing the Upper Dolpo Trek, you are supporting local communities and contributing to their sustainable development. The trekking permits and accommodations directly benefit the people of Dolpo, ensuring that they can continue to preserve their culture and way of life.
Bartlomiej Strusinski
United States
September 19, 2023
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure
The Upper Dolpo Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish forever. From the breathtaking scenery to the rich cultural experiences, this trek offers a truly transformative journey that will stay with you long after you leave Dolpo.
Nancy Austin
Australia
April 13, 2023
A Trek Back in Time
The Upper Dolpo Trek feels like a journey back in time. With its ancient villages, traditional farming practices, and lack of modern infrastructure, Dolpo gives you a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
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