UPPER DOLPO TREK
UPPER DOLPO TREK
The 24 Days Upper Dolpo Trek takes you to stunning alpine regions far removed from the main tourist trails. If it is isolation, an unspoiled environment, and an authentic warm and kind people that appeal, then this is the perfect trek for you. This is a perfect escape from the material world; a place where you can open your mind and discover what is important in this world. This is a land full of smiles!
The Upper Dolpo trek takes you into the Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to several endangered species, such as the elusive snow leopard. You can also find a grey wolf, musk deer, blue sheep, goral, great Tibetan sheep, Himalayan Tahr, jackal, and Himalayan black bear.
The “Bon” people in this region practice a unique form of Tibetan Buddhism that is evidence in their homes and in their daily lives.
.The Dolpo region is divided into two parts Upper Dolpo and Lower Dolpo. The trail begins at Jufal which is reached after a short flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and then on to Juphal (2499m) in Upper Dolpo. The highest point reached on the trek is at Shey Gompa (Crystal Monastery), an 800 year old Tibetan monastery and one of the most illustrious in all of Nepal. The trail passes through the Annapurna, Kanjiroba, and Dhaulagiri ranges and on to the crystal clear turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake (3612m). On the trail you will come across unspoiled ethnically rich Bon and Buddhist villages: Saldang, Tokyu Gaon (Yak Kharka), DhoTarap, Tarakot and the largest town of the Dolpo region - Dunai.
If you want to preview what to expect on your trek to Upper Dolpo, then we suggest you take a look at these movies. Dolpo was the location for the Oscar-nominated movies "The Himalaya" and “The Caravan” and for the German documentary Dolpo Tulku. It wasn’t until 1989 that the southern part of Dolpo eventually opened up to trekkers.
Sherpa Expedition Teams (Est.1977) has an excellent reputation in the tourism industry. We will take care and arrange all permits, meals and accommodation on the trek.
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 trek, hotel.
Day 2 : Explore Kathmandu & fly to Nepalgunj Duration: 4-5 hours.
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. We will take a 50-minute afternoon flight to Nepalgunj located in Nepal’s distant southwest.
Day 3 : Fly to Jhupal (2,320m) & trek to Dunai (2,850m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
In the morning we take our flight to Jhupal in Dolpo and after arrival has a short drive to Dunai where we stay the night. Dunai is a major town in the district and has markets and shops to wander around in the afternoon.
Day 4 : Trek from Dunai to Chhepka (2838m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we have a five to six-hour trek ahead of us, firstly crossing the Thulo Bheri River and on up over a ridge to the Phoksundo River Valley and views of Kagmara Peak. Along the trail we pass Dhera Village and then climb to Rahagaon Village home to the Hindu Thakuri people and then descend through the forest until we reach Chhepka where we will stay the night.
Day 5 : Trek from Chhepka to Rechi (2,940m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today’s five to six-hour trek first ascends through the forest until we reach the river and later over a bridge at Ryajik Village we stay overnight.
Day 6 : Tek from Rechi to Phoksundo Lake (3,600m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Our four to five-hour trek today first leads us along the banks of the Pungmo Khola and on to the Phokshindo Khola, eventually reaching the attractive Tibetan village of Ringmo. Village adorned with prayer flags, Mani stone walls, and chortens. Tonight’s camp is right next to the pristine turquoise blue Phoksundo Lake.
Day 7 : Rest day at Phoksundo Lake & local trek.
Today we can literally lounge around and take in the superb views of the lake and nearby peaks, such as Kagmara, and wander around Ringmo Village.
Day 8 : Tek from Phoksundo Lake to Thulodhunga (3,607m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
A four to five-hour trek today takes us along the western side of the lake and across the summer grazing lands to Thulodhunga where we spend the night listening to the water flowing down from the mountains.
Day 9 : Trek from Thulodhunga to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4,400m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
We head to the north of Phoksundo Khola and climb a ridge where we have stunning views looking back down the valley and looking over Kang-La Pass which is the route we take to Shey Gompa. Tonight we make camp in the pastures at Phoksundo Bhanjyang.
Day 10 : Trek from Phoksundo Bhanjyang to Shey Gompa (4126m) via Kang-La pass (5360m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Our trek today is of about six to seven hours and leads us to the highest point of the trek, Kang-La Pass (5151m). From here we have amazing views of many snow-covered peaks, such as the Dhaulagiri Ranges. After soaking up the views we descend along a trail that takes us past chortens and Mani stones before reaching Shey Gompa (monastery) that sits at the base of Crystal Mountain.
Day 11 : Rest day at Shey Gompa (the crystal monastery).
A fascinating place for rest day around the high mountainous area, in complete harmony of nature and monks chanting, a tour of Shey Monastery also known as Crystal Monastery, this area is well described by Peter Matthiessen in his classic novel “The Snow Leopard.
Day 12 : Trek from Shey Gompa to Namgung Gompa (4,400m) via Saldang La Pass (5010m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we follow the trail through a steep gorge to Saldang La Pass where we can expect to have magnificent panoramic views of the many Dhaulagiri Peaks and after head down to Namgung Gompa where we stay the night
Day 13 : Trek from Namgung Gompa to Saldang (3,620m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Today’s trek of about four to five hours takes us a rugged and dry landscape and then a steep walk down before reaching Saldang where we stay the night. From here there are more amazing views of the Dolpo region and the plateau surrounding us.
Day 14 : Trek from Saldang to Rakyo (4,160m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Our trail today takes us along the Nang Chu River and along the way we pass the Nangdo river. We continue on until we reach Rakyo where we stay at the night.
Day 15 : Trek from Rakyo to High Camp (4,560m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we follow the trail back in the direction of Dachun Khola and then on to High camp. where we stay overnight.
Day 16 : Trek from High Camp to Tokyu (4209m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
After leaving High Camp we follow the trail for Six to Seven hours alongside the Jyangla Khola to reach Tokyu where we stop for the night. It is not uncommon along the trail to see yak and mules transporting goods from Tibet.
Day 17 : Trek from Tokyu Gaon to Dho Tarap (4,040m) Duration: 2 hours.
Our trail today descends to Tarap Chu located in a large green valley scattered with many small yaks and sheep herder’s huts. The trail continues until we reach Dho Tarap where we stay the night. The people here are a mix of Tibetan and Magar castes.
Day 18 : Trek from Dho Tarap to Nawarpani (3470m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Our trek today is about six to seven hours through the valley and then through a more confined gorge with sparse vegetation. This area is home to Blue Sheep and other wild animals. We continue along the trail until we reach the junction of the Tarap Chu and Nawarpani where we stay the night.
Day 19 : Trek from Nawarpani to Laina Odar (3370m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
A four to five-hour trek today takes us through the Jeep Road. We continue along the trail until we reach Laina Odart. It is here that we will camp for the night.
Day 20 : Trek from Laina Odar to Tarakot (2537m); Duration: 5-6 hours.
A four to five-hour trek today takes us through Lalberi Village and along the river to Tarakot. Tarakot has an ancient fort on the edge of the village. We continue along the trail until we reach Sandul Gomba situated where the Barbung Khola and Tarakot rivers intersect. It is here that we will camp for the night.
Day 21 : Trek from Tarakot to Dunai & drive to Jhupal; Duration: 5-6 hours.
Our final day on the trail leads through several villages along a broader trail over some hills and through valleys heading to the Thulo Bheri River until we reach Dunai. If time permits we will stop here for lunch and then take a jeep to Jhupal where we will spend out last night in the Dolpo region and celebrate our fascinating journey in this spectacular Dolpo region.
Day 22 : Fly from Jhupal to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj & transfer to hotel.
Today we have two flights ahead of us, firstly a very short flight to Nepalgunj and then on to Kathmandu. On reaching Kathmandu we will take you to your respective hotels.
Day 23 : Explore around the Kathmandu valley.
Today is a free day where you can explore the city, do some last-minute shopping or merely sit back and reflect on your journey to the remote Dolpo region.
Day 24 : 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 Included in your package:
- Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
- Four night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- One night hotel accommodation in Nepalgunj with breakfast
- Full board meal (veg. /nonveg.) during camping, prepared by our expert cook with Tea & coffee.
- Fresh fruit every evening after dinner.
- Twin sharing tented accommodation and other equipment during the camping trek. We will provide full waterproof two men tent, dining tent, kitchen tent, Table with chairs, kitchen utensils, toilet tents, etc.
- All necessary paper works and Shey Phoksundo National Park entry permits fee.
- Trekking Permits for Upper Dolpo Restricted Area.
- Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Juphal-Nepalgunj-Kathmandu Flight Tickets/ ground transport for Clients and Trekking Crews.
- A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- Guided Kathmandu sightseeing tour with private car/jeep.
- 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 - 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 Juphal 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.
Variations
Juphal to Lake Phoksundo
There are also shorter variations of the Upper Dolpo trek that you can take. One shorter variation is to trek from Juphal to Lake Phoksundo and back, which takes around eight days. Other variations connect Dolpo to Mustang and/or the Annapurna region, to the east.
Upper Dolpo to Annapurna Traverse
The Upper Dolpo to Annapurna Traverse, via Dhorpatan Wildlife Reserve, would add about a week onto the Upper Dolpo trek. There is a three-day stretch during which you pass no settlements at all.
Upper Dolpo to Jomsom trek
The Upper Dolpo to Jomsom trek is another variation. Jomsom is in the Lower Mustang region of Nepal, and also has a strong Tibetan-influenced culture. It is in the rain-shadow of Mount Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, offering a different view of the Annapurna Himal.
Dolpo to Rara Traverse
Yet another variation is the Dolpo to Rara Traverse via Shey Gompa. It is around the same length as the regular Upper Dolpo trek, but diverges at Shey Gompa and ends at Rara Lake, in Jumla and Mugu districts. This is the largest lake in Nepal, and renowned for its abundant birdlife.
Looking out from one of the passes in Dolpo
What to Bring
As with other treks in Nepal, it is essential to have sturdy hiking boots, a waterproof outer layer, and other clothing that can be layered and put on/off as the weather requires. Because trekking in Upper Dolpo can only be done with a guide, you will not need to bring your own tents or other specialist equipment. However, you should check whether your tour operator provides sleeping bags.
MAP
PHOTOS/Videos
Departures
Select a departure month
Fill out the form below and a Travel Expert will reach out to create your perfect tour.
FAQS
How long does the Upper Dolpo Trek take?
The Upper Dolpo Trek is a long and challenging trek that usually takes around 21-25 days to complete. This includes the trekking days, acclimatization days, and travel to and from the starting point of the trek.
What is the best time to do the Upper Dolpo Trek?
The best time to undertake the Upper Dolpo Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, stable weather conditions, and better visibility of the mountains.
Is it a difficult trek?
Yes, the Upper Dolpo Trek is considered to be a challenging trek. It involves walking on rugged and remote terrain, crossing high mountain passes, and long hours of trekking each day. A good level of physical fitness and prior trekking experience is recommended.
Do I need a special permit for this trek?
Yes, the Upper Dolpo region is a restricted area and requires a special permit to enter. You will need to obtain both the Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit and the Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit. It is advisable to hire a local guide or join a trekking agency who can assist you with the permit process.
Can I do this trek solo?
Solo treks in the Upper Dolpo region are not allowed. You must trek with at least one other person and be accompanied by a licensed guide. This is for your safety and to ensure that you have a responsible and enjoyable trekking experience.
What kind of accommodation can I expect during the trek?
During the trek, you will be staying in teahouses or lodges along the trail. These are basic accommodations with shared rooms and common dining areas. The facilities may vary, but you can expect a bed with a mattress, blankets, and basic meals.
Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?
Altitude sickness can be a concern on any high-altitude trek, including the Upper Dolpo Trek. It is important to acclimatize properly and take necessary precautions. It is recommended to consult with a doctor before the trek and to follow the guidance of your guide regarding altitude sickness prevention and treatment.
What are the highlights of the Upper Dolpo Trek?
The Upper Dolpo Trek is known for its stunning landscapes, remote and untouched villages, and unique Tibetan Buddhist culture. The trek takes you through beautiful valleys, ancient monasteries, and the mesmerizing Phoksundo Lake. You will also have the opportunity to witness the traditional lifestyle of the Dolpo people and their unique traditions.
What should I pack for the trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Upper Dolpo Trek include trekking boots, warm clothing, a down jacket, a sleeping bag, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, a first aid kit, and personal toiletries. It is advisable to pack light and carry only the necessary items.
Do I need travel insurance for this trek?
Yes, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities and emergency medical evacuation. Make sure to check the policy details and ensure that it covers high-altitude trekking in Nepal.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
Based On 34 Reviews
Charlotte Robert
United Kingdom
September 13, 2024
Exceptional Adventure
Sherpa Expedition made our Upper Dolpo Trek unforgettable. Their team’s expertise and attention to detail were evident at every turn. The guides were skilled and personable, offering valuable insights into the local traditions and natural beauty of Dolpo. They managed all aspects of the trek with precision, from organizing logistics to ensuring our comfort and safety. The meals were hearty and nutritious, and the accommodations were well-chosen. The journey through Upper Dolpo was smooth and enriching thanks to Sherpa Expedition’s outstanding service.
Nayla Jones
Australia
August 11, 2024
Superb Trekking Experience
Trekking Upper Dolpo with Sherpa Expedition was a superb adventure. The team’s thorough preparation and expert guidance were key to the trek’s success. The guides were highly skilled, providing invaluable insights into the local culture and terrain while ensuring our safety and enjoyment. The logistical arrangements, including well-chosen lodgings and nutritious meals, were handled with great care. Sherpa Expedition’s commitment to delivering an exceptional trekking experience was evident throughout, making this journey through Upper Dolpo one of the most rewarding adventures I’ve ever had.
Gladys Macharia
United States
July 25, 2024
A Journey to Remember with Sherpa Expedition
Sherpa Expedition provided an incredible Upper Dolpo Trek experience. From start to finish, their team was exemplary in every way. They expertly managed the complexities of high-altitude trekking and ensured our safety and comfort. The guides were exceptionally knowledgeable and engaging, sharing fascinating details about the region and its people. Their attention to detail, from the quality of meals to the choice of accommodations, made the trek both comfortable and immersive. Sherpa Expedition turned a challenging trek into a delightful adventure, and I wholeheartedly recommend them.
Write Your Review
Average Customer Ratings
How The Travellers Have Rated This Package
34
0
0
0
0
People Considering This Package Right Now Check availability
