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Upper Dolpo Trek – 28 Days

Duration28 days
Destination Dolpo Region, Nepal
Trip GradeChallenging
Starts at Kathmandu
Ends at Kathmandu
MealsFull Board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation Teahouses / Camping
Max altitude 5,360 meters (Phoksundo Lake)
ActivityTrekking
Group typePrivate and Group
Group size 1-15 people
Best seasonSpring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)

Highlights

Remote Wilderness: Explore one of Nepal’s most remote and least visited regions.
Stunning Landscapes: Traverse through dramatic landscapes, including high mountain passes, lush valleys, and arid highlands.
Phoksundo Lake: Visit the serene and stunning Phoksundo Lake, a turquoise jewel amidst rugged terrain.
Traditional Villages: Experience the unique culture of the Tibetan-influenced villages.
Buddhist Monasteries: Discover ancient monasteries and traditional practices of the Dolpo region.
Wildlife Spotting: Chance to see rare wildlife such as the snow leopard, blue sheep, and Himalayan tahr.
Scenic Passes: Cross high-altitude passes like the Numa La and Baga La, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

Overview of the Trek

The Upper Dolpo Trek is a challenging 28-day adventure through one of Nepal’s most isolated and unique regions. This trek offers an immersive experience in the Dolpo region, featuring stunning high-altitude landscapes, traditional Tibetan culture, and serene natural beauty. Trekking through rugged terrain, trekkers will encounter ancient Buddhist monasteries, remote villages, and the spectacular Phoksundo Lake. This trek is ideal for adventurous trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in a region rich with natural and cultural treasures.

What can you expect from the trek?

Expect a demanding trek through some of Nepal’s most remote and diverse landscapes. You’ll traverse high-altitude passes, walk through pristine valleys, and explore Tibetan-influenced cultures in isolated villages. The trek includes challenging ascents and descents, stunning views of the Himalayas, and opportunities to witness rare wildlife. You’ll also visit Phoksundo Lake, one of the highlights of the trek, known for its turquoise waters and surrounding beauty.

How to get prepared for Trek?

Physical Fitness: Prepare with a robust fitness regime that includes endurance training, strength workouts, and cardiovascular exercises. Include long hikes to simulate trekking conditions.
Gear and Clothing: Acquire high-quality trekking gear such as insulated jackets, waterproof pants, sturdy trekking boots, and a reliable sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures.
Acclimatization: Follow a gradual ascent schedule to help your body adjust to higher altitudes and minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
Mental Preparation: Be mentally prepared for the trek’s physical demands and remote conditions. Embrace a flexible mindset to handle unexpected changes.
Health Check-up: Consult a healthcare provider to ensure you are fit for high-altitude trekking. Discuss necessary vaccinations, altitude sickness prevention, and any required medications.
Travel Insurance: Secure comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

Activity: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Meet and greet with a delegate who will drive you to your hotel. Evening meeting with your guide to discuss the Upper Dolpo Trek Itinerary.
Accommodation: 3 Stars Hotel in Thamel
Meals: Welcome Dinner

Day 2: Upper Dolpo Trek Permit Preparation and Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing

Activity: Morning sightseeing tour of Kathmandu including Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Prepare trekking permits and equipment with your guide. Explore Thamel in the evening.
Accommodation: 3 Stars Hotel in Thamel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Flight from Kathmandu (1400m) to Nepalgunj (150m)

Activity: Domestic flight to Nepalgunj, a busy town near the Indian border. Explore local markets and zoo.
Accommodation: Standard Hotel in Nepalgunj
Meals: Breakfast
Flight Duration: 1 Hour

Day 4: Flight from Nepalgunj (150m) to Juphal (2502m) then Trek to Dunai (2850m)

Activity: Fly to Juphal, then trek through terraced farms to Dunai, the administrative center of Dolpo.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Flight Duration: 45 Minutes
Trek Duration: 2 to 3 Hours

Day 5: Trek from Dunai (2850m) to Ankhe (2896m)

Activity: Trek west across a suspension bridge, ascend through Thulo Bheri valley, and descend through walnut plantations to Ankhe.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 Hours

Day 6: Trek from Ankhe (2896m) to Sulighat (3500m)

Activity: Climb a forested riverside route with many ascents and descents, then cross to Sulighat.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 Hours

Day 7: Trek from Sulighat (3500m) to Phoksundo Lake (3611m)

Activity: Hike to the junction of Phoksundo and Pungmo rivers, cross a bridge, and continue to Phoksundo Lake via Palam settlement and Ringmo village.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 Hours

Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Phoksundo Lake (3611m)

Activity: Rest day to acclimate. Visit Ringmo village and an old Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Enjoy views of Phoksundo Lake.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Trek from Phoksundo Lake (3611m) to Phoksundo Khola (3507m)

Activity: Hike around the lake, cross a meadow and river, and reach Phoksundo Khola.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 Hours

Day 10: Trek from Phoksundo Khola (3507m) to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4402m)

Activity: Climb a glacier valley, ascend to a sheep pasture, and reach Phoksundo Bhanjyang with views of Kang La Pass and nearby peaks.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 Hours

Day 11: Trek from Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4402m) to Shey Gompa (4500m) via Kang La Pass (5360m)

Activity: Early ascent to Kang La Pass, then descend to Shey Gompa crossing meadows and rivers.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 Hours

Day 12: Acclimatization Day in Shey Gompa (4500m)

Activity: Explore Shey Gompa and Crystal Mountain. Visit Shey village and observe local Bon Po lifestyle.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Trek from Shey Gompa (4500m) to Namduna Gaun (4800m)

Activity: Descend to a rocky canyon, climb Saldang La Pass, and reach Namduna Gaun with views of sheep and yaks.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 Hours

Day 14: Trek from Namduna Gaun (4800m) to Saldang (3903m) via Saldang La Pass (5200m)

Activity: Climb Saldang La Pass and descend to Saldang, the largest village in lower Dolpo.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 Hours

Day 15: Trek from Saldang (3903m) to Yangze Gompa (4960m)

Activity: Trek through Nagon Khola and cross Panzang River to Yangze Gompa, an old Bon Po monastery.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 Hours

Day 16: Trek from Yangze Gompa (4960m) to Sibu (4560m)

Activity: Choose between two routes to Sibu, passing Namdo monastery and various terrain.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 Hours

Day 17: Trek from Sibu (4560m) to Jenga La Phedi (4900m)

Activity: Trek alongside Nam Khong Khola and ascend to a grazing area below Jeng La Pass.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 Hours

Day 18: Trek from Jenga La Phedi (4900m) to Tokyu Gaon (4209m)

Activity: Ascend Jeng La Pass for views of Mount Dhaulagiri, then descend to Tokyu Gaon in Tarap Valley.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 Hours

Day 19: Trek from Tokyu Gaon (4209m) to Dho Tarap (4040m)

Activity: Descend through a marshy plain to the settlement of Dho Tarap, exploring its unique religious practices.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 Hours

Day 20: Acclimatization Day in Dho Tarap (4040m)

Activity: Acclimatization day in Dho Tarap. Explore local culture, religion, and daily life.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 21: Trek from Dho Tarap (4040m) to Tarap Khola (3800m)

Activity: Descend through juniper and wild rose plants to Tarap Khola, observing blue sheep herds.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: 6 to 7 Hours

Day 22: Trek from Tarap Khola (3800m) to Khanigaon (3150m)

Activity: Trek through the Tarap River gorge and narrow ravine, crossing creeks.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 Hours

Day 23: Trek from Khanigaon (3150m) to Tarakot (2537m)

Activity: Hike through Lalberi village, deep woodland, and canyon to reach Tarakot. Visit Sandul Gompa.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 Hours

Day 24: Trek from Tarakot (2537m) to Dunai (2850m)

Activity: Trek back to Dunai, crossing bridges and climbing through Byas Gadi and Lochakhola Gaon.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 Hours

Day 25: Trek from Dunai (2850m) to Juphal (2502m) and Fly to Nepalgunj (150m)

Activity: Trek to Juphal and fly to Nepalgunj. Rest and explore local markets.
Accommodation: Standard Hotel in Nepalgunj
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Flight Duration: 45 Minutes

Day 26: Flight from Nepalgunj (150m) to Kathmandu (1400m)

Activity: Fly back to Kathmandu. Explore the city and do last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Accommodation: 3 Stars Hotel in Thamel
Meals: Breakfast
Flight Duration: 1 Hour

Day 27: Kathmandu Valley Exploration and Shopping

Activity: Explore any remaining sights or do some shopping in Kathmandu. Farewell dinner.
Accommodation: 3 Stars Hotel in Thamel
Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

Day 28: Departure from Kathmandu

Activity: Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.
Meals: Breakfast

Cost Includes

Airport pickup & drop
2 Nights at Kathmandu 3 Star Hotel
2 Breakfast in Kathmandu
All Permits and Taxes**Refer to permit section for more info
Domestic Flight/s
During Trek
Accomodation
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee
Guide (food and accomodation, salary, guide's insurance)
First Aid Kit
Public Transportation

Cost Excludes

Personal Expenses
Gears
Beverages & Mineral Water
Travel Insurance
Tips for staff (Expected at the end of the trip)
PotterNote: A porter can carry up to 25 kg and is helpful for high-altitude treks. It's recommended to have at least one porter for every two trekkers for better convenience.

Add-Ons:

Sight Seeing in Kathmandu
Potter
Flight
Helicopter services
Private Transportation

Best Season to Trek

The best seasons for the Upper Dolpo Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these times, the weather is relatively stable, offering clear skies and comfortable temperatures for trekking. Spring brings blooming flowers and moderate temperatures, while autumn provides crisp weather and clear views of the Himalayas.

Food Availability

Breakfast: Includes options like eggs, bread, porridge, and tea or coffee.
Lunch: Consists of rice, dal, noodles, and vegetable dishes.
Dinner: Features hearty meals such as curries, rice, pasta, and traditional Nepali fare.
Snacks: Available at teahouses and shops, including fruits, biscuits, and energy bars.

Accommodation

Accommodation during the Upper Dolpo Trek varies from teahouses in lower regions to camping in higher altitudes. Teahouses provide basic amenities including beds and shared facilities. At higher elevations, camping is necessary, with provided tents, sleeping bags, and dining equipment. In Kathmandu and Nepalgunj, accommodation is in comfortable hotels with modern amenities.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is crucial for the Upper Dolpo Trek. Ensure your policy covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation. Comprehensive insurance should include coverage for trekking activities, high-altitude incidents, and unforeseen emergencies, ensuring your safety and protection throughout the trek.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness can occur due to reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Prevent altitude sickness by ascending gradually and allowing time for acclimatization. If symptoms occur, descend immediately and seek medical attention. Carry altitude sickness medication and follow acclimatization guidelines to reduce risks.

Packing List for the Trek

Clothing: Thermal base layers, waterproof jacket, trekking pants, warm gloves, and hat.
Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots, gaiters, and warm socks.
Gear: Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, trekking poles, and a daypack.
Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, water bottle, and personal first aid kit.

Guide and Safety Measures

Guide: An experienced local guide is essential for navigating the trek, managing weather conditions, and providing cultural insights. They ensure safety and handle all logistical arrangements.
Safety: Safety measures include regular health check-ins, altitude sickness prevention, and emergency evacuation plans. Guides follow strict safety protocols to ensure trekkers’ well-being.

Booking Procedure

Contact: Reach out to the trek operator to check availability and receive detailed trek information.
Deposit: Pay a deposit to confirm your booking.
Final Payment: Settle the remaining balance before the trek starts.
Documentation: Provide necessary documents, including passport copies, visa details, and insurance information.

Map

GalleryVideo

FAQ

Can I get the refund?

Yes, you can receive a refund. However, you must report your cancellation at least 7 days prior to the trek. This allows us to make the necessary adjustments and offer your spot to another adventurer. Please contact our customer service team to initiate the refund process.

Can I change the travel date?

Yes, you can change the travel date. However, please ensure that you make the request at least 7 days before the scheduled trek. To change your travel date, please contact our customer service team as soon as possible.

Can I make changes for my accomodation?

Yes, you can make changes to your accommodation. If you choose to upgrade or downgrade your accommodation, it will affect the pricing of the package accordingly. Please contact our customer service team to discuss your preferences and any associated cost adjustments.

Do I need to hire a potter?

It depends on you. If you can handle your luggage weight, then there is no need to hire a porter. However, if you prefer an easier trek without the burden of carrying your gear, we suggest hiring a porter. We offer the option to add a porter to your package for your convenience.

Do I need any Insurance?

Yes, insurance is required for any rescue operations or medical emergencies that may arise due to high altitude or breathing problems. Having insurance ensures that you are covered in case of unforeseen circumstances and can receive the necessary assistance promptly. Please make sure to arrange appropriate travel insurance before embarking on your trek.

Price

From$4,789

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