Upper Dolpa Trek: The Ultimate Guide to Nepal’s Most Remote Adventure

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.

Trek Overview (Upper Dolpa Trek)

• 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
    
• Best Time to Trek:
  
  • Spring: April to June
    
  • Autumn: September to November
    
• Starting Point:
  
  • Fly from Kathmandu → Nepalgunj → Juphal
    
• Accommodation Options:
  
  • Basic teahouses
    
  • Homestays (limited availability)
    
  • Camping (often required in remote areas)
    

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

Sample Trek Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu – Rest, gear check, and trek briefing
   
2. Day 2: Fly to Nepalgunj (a lowland city in western Nepal)
   
3. Day 3: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (Dolpo’s airstrip) – Begin trekking
   
4. Days 4–6: Trek through Dunai, Ankhe, and reach Ringmo Village
   
5. Day 7: Explore the stunning Shey Phoksundo Lake and the nearby area
   
6. Days 8–10: Cross Kang La Pass (5,360m) to reach Shey Gompa (Crystal Monastery)
   
7. Days 11–15: Trek through remote villages like Saldang, Nyangla, and Dho Tarap
   
8. Days 16–20: Cross Numa La and Saldang La passes; reach Chharka Bhot
   
9. Days 21–24: Descend through remote trails toward the Jomsom region
   
10. Day 25: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara, then to Kathmandu

Permits & Transport

 Permits Needed:

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – Required for entering the Upper Dolpa region
  
• Shey-Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit – Needed to access the national park
  

Both permits must be arranged through a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu.

Getting There:

By Air (Fastest and Easiest)

1. Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (about 1 hour)
   
2. Take a flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal (about 40 minutes)
   
3. Start your trek from Juphal

By Road (Longer and Adventurous)

1. Drive from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (12–14 hours)
   
2. From Nepalgunj, you can:
   
   • Fly to Juphal (then start your trek), or
     
   • Continue by road to Surkhet → Jajarkot → Dunai (takes 2–3 days)
     
3. Start your trek from Dunai if you go all the way by road

Safety Tips for the Upper Dolpa Trek (Made Simple)

• Take a Rest to Adjust
  Go slowly and take rest days so your body can get used to the high altitude. This helps prevent sickness.
  
• Pack Warm Clothes
  It can get very cold at night—sometimes below -10°C, so be ready for freezing temperatures.
  
• Drink Safe Water & Eat Well
  Always purify your water before drinking. Eat only hot, cooked food to stay healthy.
  
• Be Ready for Emergencies
  Carry a satellite phone or GPS in case there’s no mobile signal. Make sure your travel insurance covers rescue or helicopter evacuation.

Trek Responsibly

• Respect Local Culture
  Dress modestly, especially in villages and around monasteries. Always ask permission before taking photos of people, homes, or religious objects.
  
• Be Polite and Friendly
  Greet locals with a smile and say “Namaste”. Learn a few simple Nepali or Tibetan words — it shows respect and builds good connections.
  
• Leave No Trash Behind
  Don’t litter. Carry your own waste and use bins where available. Pack out everything you bring in.
  
• Avoid Single-Use Plastics
  Bring a reusable water bottle and purification tablets or filters instead of buying plastic bottles.
  
• Protect Wildlife and Nature
  Don’t feed or disturb animals. Stay on the trail to avoid damaging plants or fields.
  
• Support Local Economy
  Buy local snacks, and crafts, or stay in homestays or teahouses when possible — it helps village communities directly.
  
• Be Quiet in Sacred Places
  In monasteries, shrines, or near prayer flags, be respectful and keep your voice down.
  
• Minimize Campfire Use
  Wood is scarce in the region. Avoid building fires — use a camping stove if needed.
  
• Travel in Small Groups
  Smaller groups have less impact on the environment and make it easier to connect with locals.

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.