Upper Dolpo Trek

0 (0 Reviews)
Upper Dolpo Trek
Upper Dolpo Trek Upper Dolpo Trek Upper Dolpo Trek Upper Dolpo Trek
All photos
From: $0.00
0
(0 review)
Check
Duration

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

1 person

Languages

___

About this tour

Upper Dolpo Trek is one of the most hidden and least explored gems of the Himalayan region in Nepal. Located in the remote northwest of Nepal, this trek is known for its rugged beauty, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. The Upper Dolpo Trek is perfect for those seeking a true adventure, offering crystal-clear lakes, snow-capped peaks, and a deep immersion in the traditional Tibetan culture of the area.

Starting from the town of Juphal, the trek takes you through the heart of the Dolpo region, passing through charming villages and remote valleys. The journey leads to Shey Phoksundo, a village that sits next to Nepal’s most beautiful lake, Shey Phoksundo Lake. The trek is demanding, crossing high-altitude mountain passes, lush forests, and unique landscapes that make it one of the Best Treks in Nepal for adventure lovers.

A highlight of the trek is the Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to some of Nepal’s rarest wildlife, including snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, and blue sheep. Along the way, trekkers get to experience the natural beauty of this park while learning about the wildlife and plant species that thrive here. The Upper Dolpo Trek takes you to the stunning Ringmo village, and from there, you can take a short hike to Shey Phoksundo Lake, located at an altitude of 3,611 meters. The lake is surrounded by towering mountains, including Mt. Kanjiroba, making it a peaceful and spiritual place to explore.

The trek is deeply connected to Tibetan culture. The local people in Upper Dolpo live much like their ancestors did, following traditional ways of life. As you hike through the region, you will encounter many gompas (Buddhist monasteries) that have been around for centuries, showcasing the unique Bon Po and Chaiba cultures. The ancient monastery at Shey Gompa is one of the highlights of the trek, offering a glimpse into the past and the spiritual life of the locals. Upper Dolpo is untouched by modern influences, making it a perfect place to experience life as it has been for centuries.

Though the Upper Dolpo Trek is challenging due to its high altitudes and rugged terrain, the rewards are incredible. The scenic beauty, the cultural experiences, and the sense of adventure will create memories that last a lifetime. To ensure you are well-prepared, it’s important to have the right gear, be physically fit, and have the endurance for this challenging trek.

The trek begins with a tour of Kathmandu Valley, where you can explore Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. Then, you will fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and finally to Juphal. From there, the trek starts, passing through Dunai and Ankhe before heading to Sulighat and Phoksundo Lake, where you will spend a day acclimatizing. As the journey progresses, you will cross Phoksundo Bhanjyang and Kang La Pass before reaching Shey Gompa.

From Shey Gompa, the trek continues to Namduna Gaun and Saldang village, crossing Saldang La Pass. You will then follow the Nang Chu River and reach Yangze Gompa, also known as the Bon-Po Monastery. From there, the trek takes you back through Sibu and to the base of Jeng La Pass. After crossing the pass, you will reach Tokyo Gaon, with breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri and other Himalayan peaks.

The final leg of the trek takes you to Dho Tarap, a region rich in Buddhist culture, before descending to Tarap Khola, Khanigaon, and finally Tarakot. The trek concludes with a return journey through Dunai and Juphal, followed by a flight back to Kathmandu.

When planning your Upper Dolpo Trek, choosing the Best Trekking Agency in Nepal is essential. Nature Heaven Treks and Expedition is an excellent choice for those looking to experience the best of Dolpo. They offer expert guidance for Upper Dolpo Treks, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience in this remote region. Whether you are looking for Lower Dolpo Treks, Nepal Treks and Expedition, or Climbing in Nepal, Nature Heaven Treks and Expedition provides a range of services tailored to your needs.

The Upper Dolpo Trek is a must-do for those seeking a real adventure in Nepal’s Himalayas. It’s a trek that combines stunning natural beauty, ancient culture, and an off-the-beaten-path experience, making it one of the Best Treks in Nepal. For those looking for Easy Treks in Nepal, this may not be the right choice, but for seasoned trekkers, it offers an unparalleled experience.

Highlights

  • The Upper Dolpo Trek, one of Nepal's least visited, offers solitude and peace in a remote setting.
  • The trek traverses lush forests to high-altitude deserts, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
  • Upper Dolpo hosts remote communities, including ancient Bon-Po culture, offering a glimpse into traditional life.
  • The trek visits high-altitude lakes, including Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal's most beautiful and pristine.
  • Upper Dolpo is a wildlife haven, home to Himalayan black bears, snow leopards, blue sheep, and diverse flora.
  • Upper Dolpo holds cultural and spiritual significance, with ancient monasteries and important pilgrimage sites.
  • The challenging Upper Dolpo Trek demands endurance but offers a rewarding sense of accomplishment and true adventure.
  • The trek includes high-altitude passes, such as Kang La Pass, offering panoramic views of peaks and valleys.
  • The trek traverses Shey-Phoksundo National Park, a protected area rich in diverse flora and fauna.
  • The trek passes through traditional villages, including ancient Ringmo, offering insights into local life and culture.

Included/Excluded

  • All ground transportation by private vehicle including airport transfers
  • Four night’s accommodation with breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Kathmandu Valley sightseeing tours including tour guide, entry fees, and private vehicle
  • Meals on full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea, and coffee) prepared by our expert cook
  • Twin-sharing tented camp accommodation during the trek
  • A highly experienced guide, Sherpa, required several porters, their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment
  • Trekking equipment (two men tent, dining tent, kitchen tent, table with chairs, kitchen utensils, and other necessary equipment during the trek)
  • Flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj then Juphal and vice versa including departure taxes
  • One night’s accommodation with breakfast in Nepalgunj
  • duffle bag, down jacket, and sleeping bag during the trek
  • T-Shirt and trekking map
  • Safe drinking boiled water will be provided during the trek
  • A comprehensive first aid kid bag
  • All necessary permits and paper works including Upper Dolpo special permits
  • All government and local taxes
  • Office service charge

Itinerary

Upon arrival, our friendly team from Nature Heaven Treks and Expedition, easily recognizable by our company banner, will warmly welcome you at the terminal gate. They will assist with your luggage and ensure a smooth and comfortable transfer to your hotel in a private car. Depending on your arrival time in Kathmandu, you'll have time to relax and rest. In the evening, join us for a delightful welcome dinner, where you'll enjoy exquisite cuisine and get to know the Nature Heaven Treks and Expedition team, all while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Thamel, the heart of Kathmandu's tourism district.

Before starting your trek, you'll have a full day to explore the historical and cultural wonders of Kathmandu and prepare for your adventure. In the morning, your Nature Heaven Treks and Expedition guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you on a tour of Kathmandu's iconic landmarks, including the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Patan Durbar Square. These sites offer a rich experience of Nepali art, architecture, and culture. After lunch, our office will host a short meeting where your guide will provide an overview of the trek, offer helpful tips, and assist you with packing. We’ll provide duffel bags for the trek, and the guide will also help you acquire any additional trekking gear if needed. This day will ensure you are well-prepared and ready for the journey ahead with Nature Heaven Treks and Expedition.

Your Upper Dolpo Trekking adventure begins today with a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, situated in the western part of Nepal. During the one-hour flight, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Terai region. Upon arrival in Nepalgunj, you’ll check into your hotel. Nepalgunj, a bustling town near the Indian border, offers a unique chance to explore local markets, nearby villages, and even a small zoo. This stop allows you to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Nepal before continuing on your journey to the remote Dolpo Region with Nature Heaven Treks and Expedition.

After a hearty breakfast, you'll embark on a scenic flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal, offering panoramic views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m). Upon arrival, meet your trekking crew to begin the unforgettable Upper Dolpo Trek. Hike through lush terraced fields, cross the Bheri River, and reach Dunai, the administrative center of the Dolpo region.

Leaving Dunai, you'll cross a suspension bridge and follow a scenic, wooded trail westward. The Upper Dolpo Trek continues to Thulo Bheri Valley, offering stunning views of Kagmara Peak. The route passes through charming villages and walnut plantations. Upon reaching Ankhe, you'll descend through a forest and set up camp for the night, experiencing the serene beauty and tranquility of the natural surroundings.

You will climb a challenging route along a forested riverside, involving many ascents and descents. Despite the tough hike, numerous streams along the trail will keep you cool. The Upper Dolpo Trek trail continues past grassy hills, leading you through a dense forest until you reach a precipice. From here, carefully descend a rough, shaky stairway. You will then hike further along the riverbank until you reach Sulighat, where you'll appreciate the stunning natural surroundings.

Today, you will hike to the junction of the Phoksundo and Pungmo rivers. After crossing a bridge, you will follow the western bank of Pungmo Khola. The Upper Dolpo Trekking Route continues through a cedar woodland, arriving at Palam settlement. Then, you will climb to a ridge and descend through dense, green birch trees. After crossing Phoksundo Kola, the settlement of Ringmo comes into sight. A short stroll from here will bring you to the stunning Phoksundo Lake.

According to your Upper Dolpo Trek Itinerary, today is a relaxation day to adjust to the high altitude. You will take a brief outing to explore Ringmo village, where you will visit an old Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Observe the daily activities of the locals and immerse yourself in their rich culture and traditions. Later, spend some time admiring the stunning Phoksundo Lake and its picturesque surroundings, soaking in the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.

While hiking around Phoksundo Lake's western shore, you will encounter a crevasse along a rough and unstable trail. The Upper Dolpo Trekking Trail will lead you across a verdant meadow to the plain of Phoksundo Khola at the lake's westernmost point. From here, you will proceed through a valley and cross a river via a bridge. You will reach Phoksundo Khola, where you will spend the night in a tent camp, surrounded by nature's beauty.

The Upper Dolpo Trek Route continues from the junction of Phoksundo Khola and another mountain stream, leading you to the north side through a glacier valley. Heading northeast, you will rise to a beautiful sheep pasture after crossing a deteriorated bridge. The route then takes you to the top of a steep ravine, offering breathtaking views of Kang La Pass. You will also enjoy amazing views of Chamlang Peak 6 (6,739 m) and Peak 7 (6,105 m).

Early in the morning, you will climb a challenging trail toward a pass. Although the ascent is difficult, the summit offers spectacular views of the surrounding region. You will then descend a steep trail and walk along the river's edge, journeying across meadows and crossing the river multiple times. The meadow is home to grazing yaks, mountain goats, and sheep. After crossing a log bridge, you will eventually arrive in Shey Gompa for the night, surrounded by serene natural beauty.

According to your Upper Dolpo Trekking Itinerary, today is your second acclimatization day at Shey Gompa. You will visit the historic Shey Gompa monastery, built in 1655, renowned for its enormous copper statue of a seated Shakyamuni Buddha covered in plated gold. East of the gompa, you can view Crystal Mountain, noted for its quartz-covered cliffs and diverse marine fossils. Later, stroll around Shey village to observe the unique Bon Po way of life and immerse yourself in the local culture.

After passing juniper trees, the Upper Dolpo Trekking Trail descends into a rocky canyon. From here, follow a zigzag path across rocky terrain to the summit of Saldang La Pass. The route then turns south, leading to Namduna Gaun. Along the way, enjoy picturesque views of sheep and yaks grazing in the meadows. In Namduna Gaun, you will see the historic Namgung monastery, constructed of red stone, adding to the charm of this serene village.

Today, your Upper Dolpo Trekking Route leaves Namduna Gaun. You will climb a slope and hike to Saldang via a dusty trail. After 3 to 4 hours of difficult climbing, reaching an altitude of 4800m, you will descend the precipitous hill to the charming settlement of Saldang, perched high above the Nam Khong Nala on a plateau. Saldang, the largest village in the lower Dolpo region, thrives through agriculture and its strategic location along a trade route to Tibet.

You will start the day trekking through a desolate area along the Nagon Khola to the north. Today's Upper Dolpo Trekking Trail is relatively simple, with only a few ascents and descents. After passing the villages of Marang and Ki, you will bridge the Panzang River. The route then curves east, and after crossing one more river, you will reach Yangze Gompa, an ancient Bon Po monastery, where you can explore its rich history and spiritual ambiance.

There are two pathways to Sibu. You will take the simple route back to Saldang village. From Saldang, travel alongside a river and pass stupas, chortens, terraced fields, and mani stones to reach Namdo hamlet. After visiting Namdo Monastery, continue your Upper Dolpo Trekking Itinerary for another two hours to reach Sibu. This leg of the journey offers a blend of cultural and natural beauty, making for a memorable trekking experience.

The Upper Dolpo Trek Route follows Nam Khong Khola alongside caravans. Continuing east, you will eventually arrive at the junction of two small streams. From here, a challenging route ascends to the grazing area beneath Jeng La Pass. You will spend the night in a lovely meadow, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the high-altitude landscape. This serene setting provides a perfect spot to rest and prepare for the next day's adventure.

You will rise early this morning to begin your adventure to Tokyu Gaon. The first stage of the Upper Dolpo Trekking Path involves ascending to Jeng La Pass, where you will be greeted with a breathtaking panorama of Mount Dhaulagiri's north face (8167m). Afterward, the trail descends to a rocky pathway leading to Tarap Valley. From there, you will journey to Tokyu Gaon, where you will spend the night, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the region.

As you descend through a grassy region, you will get a fresh view of Inner Dolpo. Passing through a marsh typical of the desert mountain region, the Upper Dolpo Trek Route leads you to the settlement of Dho Tarap, encircled by crooked stone walls. Here, you can explore and practice the distinctive Bon Po and Chaiba religions, immersing yourself in the unique cultural and spiritual traditions of the area. The blend of natural and cultural experiences makes this a memorable stop.

As per your Upper Dolpo Trekking Itinerary, this is the third rest day for acclimatization at the village of Dho Tarap. This day will help you acclimate and provide an opportunity to tour the community and its surroundings. You will interact with locals, learning about their way of life, culture, and traditions, with Chaiba and Bon Po being the practiced religions. You may sample their offerings, admire their lovely attire, and gain a deeper appreciation for their unique heritage.

Your Upper Dolpo Trekking Trail will descend from Dho Tarap into a broad valley that gradually narrows into a canyon. As you hike among juniper and wild rose plants, you may see herds of blue sheep. The trail leads to the meeting point of Lang Khola and Tarap Chu. You will spend the night in a tented camp next to Tarap Khola, in a pleasant meadow known as Kamakharka, surrounded by the serene beauty of the area.

After breakfast, you will hike into the Tarap River's gorge. Along the road, you'll see locals moving their livestock to lower grasslands. The Upper Dolpo Trekking Route passes through a very narrow ravine, where you can easily jump from one spot to another, making it a challenging trail. The excitement continues as you cross tiny creeks on foot, as bridges may be destroyed or swept away, adding to the adventure of your journey.

You will arrive in Lalberi village via the Upper Dolpo Trek Route. The path then passes through deep woodland before descending into another canyon. After hiking through the gorge, you'll reach a river. Following the river's edge, you will arrive in Tarakot, where you can visit Sandul Gompa, situated 8 kilometers east at the confluence of Barbung Khola and Tarap Chu. You will take a break at Tarakot and spend the night in a tent city.

You will walk back to Dunai along the same route, hiking behind the Bheri River after crossing a bridge near Lawan Village. The Upper Dolpo Trekking Trail then climbs to Byas Gadi before heading west along a straightforward path. After crossing a river near Lochakhola Gaon, you will ascend and arrive in Dunai for the night. This leg of the journey provides a mix of familiar and new scenery, allowing you to appreciate the landscape from a different perspective.

You can trek alongside the Bheri River, taking in the stunning views along the route. The journey will take you through the villages of Dhupichaur and Rupgad. Continuing along the Upper Dolpo Trekking Trail, you will pass through the villages of Motipur and Kalagaonda. Eventually, the trail brings you to a small airfield from which you can fly back to Jhupal, marking the end of your trekking adventure.

After breakfast, you will depart Juphal for a brief scenic flight to Nepalgunj. Flying above the foothills of the Himalayas, the aircraft offers breathtaking views of peaks to the north, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Your Upper Dolpo Trekking Itinerary concludes as you reach Nepalgunj and board the next aircraft back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will check into your three-star hotel and unwind for the day, spending the night in comfort.

You have a day off today in Kathmandu to unwind, go shopping, and explore the area. If you wish, we can also arrange a guided tour of the sites you missed earlier. In the evening, you will enjoy a lovely farewell dinner to celebrate the successful end of your trekking adventure. As you prepare to depart for your homeland tomorrow, take this time to reflect on the incredible experiences you've had.

The exciting trek you took with us through Nepal has come to an end. After breakfast today, you will head to the airport. A member of Nature Heaven Treks and Expedition will assist you to the gate of the international airport terminal before bidding you farewell. Safe travels and we hope to see you again!

Allow our experts at Nature Heaven Treks and Expedition to help you Plan one of the most Memorable Vacations based on your interests with their in-depth knowledge of the Himalayas, they can craft the journey of your dreams considering your preferred location, time frame, and Budget

Durations

30 Days
Multi day

Frequently asked questions

Tour's Location

Upper Dolpo Trek

Reviews

0/5
Not Rated
(0 Reviews)
Excellent
0
Very Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
0 reviews on this Tour - Showing 1 to 0

Write a review

From: $0.00
0 (0 Reviews)
01/23/2025
18
8
Age 0-5

Owner

Upper Dolpo Trek

natureheaventrek.com

Member Since 2024

Information Contact

Email

info@natureheaventreks.com

Website

https://natureheaventreks.com/

Phone

9851218358

Explore other options

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

0 (No Review)
$0.00
Nar Phu Valley Trek Nar Phu Valley Trek

Nar Phu Valley Trek

0 (No Review)
$0.00
Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Ghandruk, Nepal

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

0 (No Review)
$0.00
Mardi Himal Trek Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek

0 (No Review)
$0.00
Khopra Danda Trek Khopra Danda Trek

Khopra Danda Trek

0 (No Review)
$0.00
Everest Base Camp Trek 2025 Everest Base Camp Trek 2025

Everest Base Camp Trek 2025

0 (No Review)
From $1,500.00
Annapurna Circuit Trek Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek

0 (No Review)
$0.00
Gokyo Lakes Cho La Pass EBC Trek Gokyo Lakes Cho La Pass EBC Trek
Gokyo Lakes Cho La

Gokyo Lakes Cho La Pass EBC Trek

0 (No Review)
From $1,900.00
Copyright © 2025 by Expedition and Trekking Agency in Nepal
Trust badges