The Upper Dolpa Trek is Nepal’s ultimate remote trekking experience, offering an unforgettable journey through the hidden valleys of western Nepal. This off-the-beaten-path trek immerses you in untouched Himalayan landscapes, ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, and dramatic mountain scenery. Unlike the crowded trails of Everest or Annapurna, the Upper Dolpa Trek reveals a world of sacred monasteries, high mountain passes, and centuries-old traditions preserved in time.
Why Choose the Upper Dolpa Trek?
- Wild Nature: Walk through Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal’s largest national park, home to rare animals like snow leopards, blue sheep, musk deer, and Himalayan griffons.
- Unique Culture: Discover centuries-old monasteries, traditional Tibetan Buddhist and Bon beliefs, and interact with locals who follow a way of life untouched by the modern world.
- Amazing Views: Witness the deep blue Shey Phoksundo Lake, jagged cliffs, hidden valleys, and stunning views of the Himalayan ranges from high-altitude passes.
- Real Adventure: Trek over rugged and challenging passes like Kang La (5,360m), Numa La (5,190m), and Saldang La (5,200m) – a thrilling test of stamina and spirit.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Explore a trail that sees very few trekkers compared to Everest or Annapurna – perfect for solitude and raw nature.
- Ancient Trade Routes: Follow old salt and caravan trails once used by traders traveling between Nepal and Tibet with yak and horse caravans.
- Spiritual Experience: Visit Shey Gompa, also known as the Crystal Monastery, a deeply sacred site surrounded by the mystical Crystal Mountain.
- Photography Paradise: Capture dramatic landscapes, culturally rich villages, and vibrant prayer flags fluttering against a backdrop of vast skies and rugged peaks.
- Rich Biodiversity: Encounter unique Himalayan plants, alpine flowers, and medicinal herbs, especially in summer and monsoon transition periods.
- True Cultural Exchange: Stay in remote villages like Saldang, Dho Tarap, and Tinje, where people are warm, welcoming, and eager to share stories.
Upper Dolpa Trek Overview
- Duration: 25–28 days (including rest and acclimatization days)
- Difficulty: Very hard – suitable for experienced trekkers
- Highest Point: Kang La Pass (5,360 meters / 17,585 feet)
- Permits Required:
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Shey-Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Best Time to Trek:
- Spring: April to June
- Autumn: September to November
- Spring: April to June
- Starting Point:
- Fly from Kathmandu → Nepalgunj → Juphal
- Fly from Kathmandu → Nepalgunj → Juphal
- Accommodation Options:
- Basic teahouses
- Homestays (limited availability)
- Camping (often required in remote areas)
- Basic teahouses
Top Highlights of the Upper Dolpa Trek
Shey Phoksundo Lake
Nepal’s deepest and most beautiful alpine lake, Shey Phoksundo, sits at 3,611 meters. Its turquoise blue waters, surrounded by rugged cliffs and forests, make it one of the most photographed lakes in Nepal. Swimming is not allowed due to its sacred status, but the view alone is unforgettable.
Shey Gompa (Crystal Monastery)
Located near the mystical Crystal Mountain, this 800-year-old monastery is the spiritual heart of Dolpo. Pilgrims and trekkers alike visit Shey Gompa for its religious significance, peaceful ambiance, and breathtaking mountain setting.
High Mountain Passes
The trek features several dramatic high passes, including:
- Kang La Pass (5,360m)
- Numa La Pass (5,190m)
- Saldang La Pass (5,200m)
Crossing these rugged passes offers spectacular views of snow-covered peaks and remote valleys—an intense but rewarding part of the journey.
Remote Villages
Explore ancient villages like Saldang, Dho Tarap, and Tinje, where locals still live by traditional Tibetan-influenced customs. These villages provide a unique chance to see medieval-style architecture, yak herding lifestyles, and strong community traditions untouched by modernity.
Wildlife & Natural Beauty
Upper Dolpa lies within Shey Phoksundo National Park, rich in biodiversity. You may spot blue sheep, musk deer, Himalayan marmots, or even the elusive snow leopard. The landscapes vary from lush forests to barren high-altitude deserts—perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Caravan Trails
Throughout the trek, you’ll see yak, mule, and horse caravans—a timeless sight in Dolpo. These animals transport goods along old trade routes between Nepal and Tibet, adding a historic charm to the trek and showcasing the region’s role in the ancient Himalayan trade network
Upper Dolpa Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our office representative will be waiting for you at the arrival gate with a board displaying your name. A private vehicle will transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Accommodation will be arranged as per your reservation.
Book your stay through Attic – you can find a range of hotels near Tribhuvan International Airport, Thamel, and Gaushala to match your comfort and budget.
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
After breakfast, you’ll meet your trek guide and support team. A pre-trek briefing will be held. Then,
You’ll begin a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Patan
Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Swayambhunath (Monkey
Temple).
Day 3: Fly to Nepalgunj
After breakfast, a private vehicle will transfer you to the airport for a flight to Nepalgunj (approx. 50
mins). Located in southwestern Nepal, Nepalgunj is warmer and lies near the Indian border. Our
representative will escort you to your hotel.
Day 4: Fly to Juphal; Trek to Dunai
A 35-minute scenic flight takes you to Juphal. From here, your trek begins with a short descent to
Kalagawda and an easy trail alongside the Bheri River to Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpa.
Day 5: Trek to Chhepka
The trek officially starts as you walk alongside the Phoksundo River. You’ll pass through the Shey
Phoksundo National Park check-post at Sulighat, then follow the river, passing tropical forests and
small villages to reach Chhepka.
Day 6: Trek to Chunuwar / Amchi Hospital
Following a peaceful forest trail, you’ll cross bridges and pass through Raichi before arriving at
Chunuwar near Amchi Hospital, where traditional medicine is practiced. Camps will be set up
nearby.
Day 7: Trek to Phoksundo Lake
Today, you ascend to the picturesque Ringmo village and the turquoise Phoksundo Lake. En route,
You’ll pass the highest waterfall in Nepal and get your first panoramic views of the lake.
Day 8: Rest Day at Phoksundo Lake
Rest and exploration day at Phoksundo Lake. You’ll visit Ringmo village, Bon monasteries, and
enjoy the natural beauty and spiritual ambiance of the region. Optional hike to Tshowa Monastery.
Day 9: Trek to Sallaghari
Today’s route hugs the cliffs above the lake and descends into a forest before ascending again to
reach Sallaghari, a lovely pine campsite.
Day 10: Trek to Nangdala High Camp
A short yet steep trek along the Tuk Kyaksa River brings you to Nangdala High Camp (also called
Kang La Base Camp is surrounded by massive rock walls.
Day 11: Trek to Shey Gompa via Nangda La Pass
A challenging ascent leads you to Kang-La Pass (5350m), offering views of the sacred Crystal
Mountain and Shey Shikhar. Descend to reach the spiritual hub of Shey Gompa.
Day 12: Trek to Namgung Gompa via Shey La Pass
Explore Shey Gompa, built in the 11th century and home to unique Chaiba and Kagyu Buddhist
practices. Trek across Shey-La Pass and descend to the pastures of Namgung.
Day 13: Trek to Saldang
A scenic trail passes along Namga Khola leading to Saldang, the largest village in the region.
located on an ancient trade route to Tibet.
Day 14: Rest Day; Hike to Yangjer Gumba
A day hike takes you to Yangjer Gumba, the richest monastery in Upper Dolpo. Return to Saldang
for the night. Enjoy traditional food and cultural interactions.
Day 15: Trek to Komash Village
Continue along the Rapyha Khola, crossing a high pass and descending into the Tibetan-style
Komash village. Set up camp at a scenic location.
Day 16: Trek to Shimen
Today’s trail features open landscapes with the chance to spot blue sheep and even snow
leopards. Pass small villages before arriving at Shimen.
Day 17: Trek to Tinje Village
Follow the Panjyang Khola past remote monasteries and beautiful alpine scenery to reach the wide
Tinje Valley was once used as an airstrip.
Day 18: Trek to Yak Kharka
Trek through the valley, passing Chhamdang and reaching the yak grazing grounds of Yak Kharka.
Enjoy views of barren, scenic hills.
Day 19: Trek to Tokyu via Choila North Pass
Cross Choila North Pass (5040m) to reach Tokyu. Though challenging, the top offers superb views
of Dhaulagiri and Inner Dolpo.
Day 20: Trek to Dho Tarap (Rest & Exploration)
A short and easy walk takes you to Dho Tarap, the largest village in the area. Explore traditional
homes, monasteries, and cultural performances.
Day 21: Trek to Naworpani
A long walk along the Tarap River with dramatic canyon landscapes and suspension bridges. Camp
at Naworpani after passing multiple villages.
Day 22: Trek to Laisicap
Vegetation changes as you descend along the Tarap Khola. Pass Lamchaur and Chhedhul Gompa
before reaching Laisicap. Wildlife sightings are possible.
Day 23: Trek to Dunai
Pass Tarakot and its terraced fields before returning to Dunai. Revisit Bon Gumba or explore the
lively district center.
Day 24: Trek to Juphal
Retrace your steps to Juphal, ascending gently through agricultural lands. Enjoy your final night in
the mountains.
Day 25: Fly to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu
Fly to Nepalgunj in the morning and catch a connecting flight to Kathmandu. Check into your hotel
and enjoy a farewell dinner with a cultural show in Thamel.
Day 26: Final Departure
Depending on your departure time, enjoy shopping or relaxing in Thamel before your transfer to the
airport for your international flight. Namaste!
Permits Required for Upper Dolpa Trek
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – Needed for Upper Dolpo
- Shey-Phoksundo National Park Permit – For park entry
→ Must be arranged via a registered agency in Kathmandu.
Getting to the Upper Dolpa Trek
By Air (Easier & Faster):
- Kathmandu → Nepalgunj (1 hr flight)
- Nepalgunj → Juphal (40 min flight)
→ Start trek from Juphal
By Road (Longer, Scenic):
- Kathmandu → Nepalgunj (12–14 hrs drive)
- Continue by road: Nepalgunj → Surkhet → Jajarkot → Dunai (2–3 days)
→ Start trek from Dunai
Safety Tips
- Acclimatize: Go slow and take rest days.
- Stay Warm: Nights can drop below -10°C.
- Eat & Drink Safely: Purify water, eat hot meals.
- Emergency Ready: Carry a GPS or satellite phone; have rescue insurance.
Responsible Trekking for Upper Dolpa trek
- Respect Culture: Dress modestly; ask before taking photos.
- Be Friendly: Smile, say “Namaste”, learn simple local words.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out trash; avoid plastic bottles.
- Support Locals: Buy local, stay in homestays/teahouses.
- Be Respectful: Stay quiet in monasteries; follow trails.
- Avoid Campfires: Use stoves—wood is limited.
- Travel Light: Small groups = less environmental impact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1: How hard is this trek?
Very challenging – high passes, remote trails, and limited facilities.
2: What’s the best time to go?
Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–November).
3: How do I get there?
Fly to Nepalgunj, then to Juphal. The trek begins from Juphal.
4: Can I trek alone?
No – a licensed guide is required for this area.
5: What’s the highest point?
Kang La Pass – 5,360 meters.
6: Where do I sleep?
Basic teahouses, homestays, or camping (facilities are limited).
7: Do I need permits?
Yes, a Restricted Area Permit and a Shey-Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit are required.
8: How many hours do I walk each day?
Usually 6 to 8 hours per day, sometimes longer on high-pass days.
9: Is there phone or internet service?
Very limited mobile signal and no Wi-Fi on the trail. Satellite phones are recommended.
10: Can I hire porters?
Yes, porters are available to carry your gear.
11: Is the trek safe?
Yes, if you are well-prepared and travel with a licensed guide. Make sure to have travel insurance.
12: What kind of weather should I expect?
Cold, especially at night and at high altitudes. Temperatures can drop below -10°C.
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