Upper Dolpo Trek
Highlights
- The trek takes you through a diverse range of landscapes from lush forests to high-altitude deserts, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.
- The Upper Dolpo region is home to several remote communities including the ancient Bon-Po culture, providing a rare opportunity to experience traditional life in one of Nepal’s most isolated areas.
- The route features several high-altitude lakes including Phoksundo Lake, one of the most beautiful and pristine lakes in Nepal.
- The region is a haven for wildlife and home to numerous species such as the Himalayan black bear, snow leopard and blue sheep. It also boasts rich and diverse flora including rhododendron forests and alpine meadows.
- Upper Dolpo holds great cultural and spiritual significance with several ancient monasteries and sacred pilgrimage sites.
- The Upper Dolpo Trek is challenging and demanding, requiring both physical and mental endurance but it rewards trekkers with a deep sense of accomplishment and adventure.
- The trek involves crossing several high-altitude passes including the Kang La Pass which offers panoramic views of surrounding peaks and valleys.
- The trail passes through Shey Phoksundo National Park, a protected area known for its remarkable biodiversity.
- Along the way, trekkers visit traditional villages such as Ringmo which offers a unique glimpse into local culture and lifestyle.
- The Upper Dolpo Trek remains one of Nepal’s least-visited and most remote adventures offering solitude and tranquility rarely found in other popular trekking regions.
Overview
Upper Dolpo is one of the least explored and most enchanting regions of the Himalayas. This remote high-altitude trek offers dramatic landscapes, rich cultural encounters and a deep sense of adventure. Located in northwestern Nepal, the area is famous for its crystal-clear lakes, towering snow-capped peaks and distinct Tibetan-influenced culture.
The Upper Dolpo Trek Itinerary takes you through the heart of the Dolpo region, offering opportunities to explore traditional villages and interact with local people. The trek begins in Juphal and leads you to the serene village of Shey Phoksundo showcasing the untouched beauty of the region. The route winds through lush forests, high mountain passes and hidden valleys, making it an ideal choice for trekkers seeking a truly unique Himalayan experience.
One of the major highlights is Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to a remarkable range of flora and fauna. You may spot blue sheep, Himalayan black bears and even snow leopards, making this trek particularly appealing to nature enthusiasts. The trail passes through Ringmo Village, from where a short hike leads to the stunning Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,611 m). Surrounded by rugged cliffs and distant views of Mt. Kanjiroba, this lake is one of Nepal’s natural treasures. You’ll also visit Shey Gompa, an ancient monastery and spiritual center of Dolpo.
The region remains largely untouched by modern development. Life here continues much as it has for centuries, deeply rooted in Tibetan traditions. The language, food, festivals and beliefs of the local people closely resemble those of Tibet. Along the journey, you’ll visit several monasteries and gompas that reflect pre-Buddhist Bon Po and Chaiba traditions.
While the Upper Dolpo Trek is physically demanding, the rewards are immense. The stunning scenery, cultural immersion and sense of discovery make it an unforgettable adventure. To enjoy it fully, proper preparation is essential. You’ll need quality trekking gear, a warm sleeping bag, sturdy boots and good physical conditioning.
Upper Dolpo Trek Itinerary Highlights
The trek typically begins with a short flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj followed by another flight to Juphal. From there, the journey continues on foot through Dunai, Ankhe, Sulighat and onward to Phoksundo Lake. A rest day at Phoksundo allows you to acclimatize and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Afterward, the route ascends through beautiful meadows and the Phoksundo Khola floodplains to Phoksundo Bhanjyang. Crossing the Kang La Pass, you’ll reach Shey Gompa where you’ll spend an extra day acclimatizing. The trek then continues over the Saldang La Pass (5,200 m) to Namduna Gaun and Saldang Village followed by Yangze Gompa, a Bon-Po monastery.
From Yangze, you’ll retrace your steps to Sibu and after following the Nam Khong Khola, climb to the Jeng La Pass (5,090 m). The descent takes you to Tokyu Gaon and Dho Tarap, from where you’ll follow the trail to Tarap Khola, Khanigaon and Tarakot. The journey concludes as you trek back to Dunai and Juphal from where you’ll fly to Kathmandu.
What to Expect
- Spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes and hidden valleys
- Immersion in traditional Tibetan-influenced culture and warm local hospitality
- Wildlife encounters within Shey Phoksundo National Park
- A remote and peaceful trekking environment with minimal crowds
- Challenging terrain that rewards perseverance with unmatched beauty
The Upper Dolpo Trek combines stunning natural scenery, cultural depth and genuine adventure, making it one of Nepal’s most remarkable trekking experiences.
Is the Upper Dolpo Trek Right for You?
This trek is ideal for:
- Trekkers with previous high-altitude experience looking for a more challenging route
- Adventure seekers ready to push themselves both physically and mentally
- Nature and wildlife enthusiasts interested in rare Himalayan species
- Travelers eager to explore ancient cultures and remote Himalayan lifestyles
However, this trek requires excellent physical fitness, mental endurance and thorough preparation. The high altitude and rugged terrain make it suitable only for well-prepared and determined trekkers.
Preparation Tips
- Build your fitness: Begin training well in advance with regular exercise to build stamina and strength.
- Pack properly: Bring warm layered clothing, durable footwear, a sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures and a reliable backpack.
- Acclimatize gradually: Spend time at lower elevations before ascending to higher altitudes to avoid altitude sickness.
- Get travel insurance: Ensure it includes emergency evacuation and medical coverage.
- Plan carefully: Research your route and allow flexibility in your itinerary for rest and weather changes.
- Hire a local guide: Their experience and knowledge of the terrain and culture will enrich your journey and ensure safety.
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,275m)
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will need to complete the necessary customs and visa formalities. Afterward, please look for our representative holding an Everest View Treks & Expedition signboard at the arrival gate. You will then be warmly greeted and transferred to Hotel Manang or another hotel of a similar standard. Accommodation will be provided on a bed and breakfast (B/B) basis.
Fly to Nepalgunj (1-hour flight Overnight at Hotel)
In the late afternoon you will take a scenic one-hour flight to Nepalgunj, a city located in the southwestern part of Nepal. Upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D) are included.
Fly to Juphal and Trek to Dunai (2,140m) – 4 to 5 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Early in the morning, take a scenic flight to Juphal, the starting point of your trek. From Juphal, the trail descends mostly downhill before leveling out as you approach Dunai. The walk takes approximately 4 to 5 hours.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Dunai to Chhepka (2,838m) – 6 to 7 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, begin your trek from Dunai towards Chhepka, which takes about 6 to 7 hours. The trail ascends gradually and later becomes relatively flat as you approach Chhepka. You will stop for lunch along the way and then continue walking for about three more hours to reach the campsite.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Chhepka to Amchi Gompa (3,110m) – 6 to 7 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Chhepka to Amchi Gompa, which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. The trail ascends gradually and then levels out as you approach Amchi Gompa. You will stop for lunch along the way and continue walking for about three more hours to reach the campsite.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Amchi Gompa to Ringmo (Phoksundo Lake, 3,641m) – 4 to 5 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Amchi Gompa to Ringmo Village near Phoksundo Lake, which takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. The trail ascends gradually and then levels out as you approach Ringmo. You will stop for lunch along the way and continue walking to reach the campsite near the lake.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Rest Day at Ringmo (Phoksundo Lake) – Explore Ringmo Village and Monastery, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today is a rest day in Ringmo Village near Phoksundo Lake. After breakfast, you can visit the local monastery and take a walk around the lake. Return to the campsite for lunch, and spend the afternoon relaxing or attending to personal tasks such as laundry.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Ringmo (Phoksundo) to Chabluk Phu (3,740m) – 6 to 7 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Ringmo to Chabluk Phu at the end of the lake, which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. The trail ascends mostly uphill, followed by gradual flat sections and slight descents before reaching Chabluk. You will stop for lunch along the way and continue walking for about three more hours to reach the campsite.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Chabluk Phu to Nangdala La Base Camp (4,717m) – 6 to 7 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Chabluk Phu to Nangdala La Base Camp, which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. The trail begins with a flat zigzag path, followed by a mostly uphill climb, then gradual flat sections before reaching the base camp. You will stop for lunch along the way and continue walking for about three more hours to arrive at Nangdala La Base Camp.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Nangdala La Base Camp to Nangdala La Pass (5,350m) and Descend to Shey Gompa (4,160m) – 6 to 7 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, start early in the morning around 7:30 AM and climb to Nangdala La Pass at 5,350m. After reaching the pass, descend downhill to Shey Gompa at 4,160m. A packed lunch will be provided during the trek, as there is no water available along the trail for cooking a hot meal.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Rest Day at Shey Gompa – Overnight at Tent Camp
Today is a rest day at Shey Gompa. After breakfast, you can visit the monastery and take a walk around Shey Gompa before returning to the campsite. After lunch, you may relax or attend to personal tasks such as laundry.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Shey Gompa to Tata Shyamling Gompa (3,920m) – 6 to 7 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Shey Gompa to Tata Shyamling Gompa, which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. The trail ascends mostly uphill, followed by gradual flat sections and slight descents before reaching Shyamling Gompa. A packed lunch will be provided along the way, and you will continue walking for about three more hours to arrive at the campsite.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Tata Shyamling Gompa to Bhijer Bonpo Gompa (3,850m) – 5 to 6 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Tata Shyamling Gompa to Bhijer Bonpo Gompa, which takes approximately 5 to 6 hours. The trail ascends mostly uphill, followed by gradual flat sections and slight descents before reaching Bhijer Bonpo Gompa. A packed lunch will be provided along the way, and you will continue walking to arrive at the campsite.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Bhijer Bonpo Gompa to Nengla La Pass (5,368m) and Nengla Campsite (4,790m) – 6 to 7 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Bhijer Bonpo Gompa to Nengla Campsite, crossing the Nengla La Pass at 5,368m. The trek takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, beginning with a mostly uphill climb, followed by gradual flat sections and downhill stretches before reaching the campsite. A packed lunch will be provided along the way, and you will continue walking for about three more hours to reach Nengla Campsite.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Nengla Campsite to Saldang (3,770m) – 5 to 6 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Nengla Campsite to Saldang Village, which takes approximately 5 to 6 hours. The trail descends mostly downhill, followed by gradual flat sections and slight descents before reaching Saldang. A packed lunch will be provided along the way, and you will continue walking for about three more hours to arrive at the village.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Rest Day in Saldang Village – Overnight at Tent Camp
Today is a rest day in Saldang Village. After breakfast, you can visit the local monastery and explore the village before returning to the campsite. After lunch, you may relax or attend to personal tasks such as laundry.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Saldang Village to Khoma Gaon – 6 to 7 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Saldang Village to Khoma Gaon, which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. The trail begins with a downhill section, followed by an uphill climb to Khoma Dada, then descends gradually and levels out before reaching Khoma Gaon. A packed lunch will be provided along the way, and you will continue walking for about three more hours to arrive at the campsite.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Khomagaon to Pu Gompa (3,950m) – 6 to 7 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Khomagaon to Pu Gompa, which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. The trail descends mostly downhill, followed by gradual flat sections and slight descents before reaching Pu Gompa. A packed lunch will be provided along the way, and you will continue walking for about three more hours to arrive at the campsite.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Pu Gompa to Tinje Gaon (4,110m) – 5 to 6 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Pu Gompa to Tinje Gaon, which takes approximately 5 to 6 hours. The trail descends mostly downhill, followed by gradual flat sections and slight descents before reaching Tinje Gaon. A packed lunch will be provided along the way, and you will continue walking for about three more hours to arrive at the campsite.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Tinje Gaon to Rapka (4,310m) – 6 to 7 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Tinje Gaon to Rapka, which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. The trail ascends mostly uphill, followed by gradual flat sections before reaching Rapka. A packed lunch will be provided along the way, and you will continue walking for about three more hours to arrive at the campsite.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Rapka to Mola Pass (5,027m) and Descend to Chharka Bhot (4,302m) – Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, start early in the morning around 7:30 AM and climb to Mola Pass at 5,027m. After reaching the pass, descend downhill to Chharka Bhot at 4,302m. A packed lunch will be provided during the trek, as there is no water available along the trail for cooking a hot meal.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Rest Day at Chharka Bhot – Explore Chharka Village, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today is a rest day at Chharka Bhot. After breakfast, you can visit the local monastery and explore the village before returning to the campsite. After lunch, you may relax or attend to personal tasks such as laundry.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Chharka Bhot to Chharka Tulsi Camp (4,380m) – 4 to 5 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Chharka Bhot to Chharka Tulsi Camp, which takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. The trail ascends mostly uphill, followed by gradual flat sections before reaching Tulsi Camp. A packed lunch will be provided along the way, and you will continue walking to arrive at the campsite.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Chharka Tulsi Camp to Nulungsumde Kharka (4,987m) – 6 to 7 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Chharka Tulsi Camp to Nulungsumde Kharka, which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. The trail ascends mostly uphill, followed by gradual flat sections before reaching Nulungsumde Kharka. A packed lunch will be provided along the way, and you will continue walking to arrive at the campsite.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Nulungsumde Kharka to Jungbenla Pass (5,550m) and Descend to Khola Camp (4,247m) – 6 to 7 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Nulungsumde Kharka to Khola Camp, crossing Jungbenla Pass at 5,550m. The trail ascends mostly uphill to the pass, then descends gradually with flat sections before reaching Khola Camp. A packed lunch will be provided along the way and you will continue walking to arrive at the campsite.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Khola Camp to Sangda Village (3,777m) – 5 to 6 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp
Today, trek from Khola Camp to Sangda Village, which takes approximately 5 to 6 hours. The trail descends mostly downhill, followed by gradual flat sections before reaching Sangda Village. A packed lunch will be provided along the way and you will continue walking to arrive at the campsite.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Sangda Village to Phalayak – Overnight at Tent Camp
Today is the final challenging day of the Upper Dolpo Trek as you trek from Sangda Village to Phalayak. The trail ascends uphill to Sangda Pass, followed by a downhill descent to Phalayak. A packed lunch will be provided along the way, and you will continue walking for about three more hours to reach the campsite.
Overnight at tented camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Trek from Phalayak to Jomsom – 4 to 5 Hours Walk, Overnight at Tent Camp or Lodge
Today, trek from Phalayak to Jomsom, which takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. The trail descends mostly downhill, followed by flat sections before reaching Jomsom. This evening, celebrate the final night of your Upper Dolpo Trek with the trek staff.
Overnight at tented camp or lodge. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B/L/D).
Jomsom to Pokhara Flight (820m / 2,700 ft) – 30-Minute Flight, Overnight in Pokhara
After breakfast, we fly to Pokhara. The scenic flight passes through the gorge of the two majestic mountains, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Upon arrival at Pokhara Airport, we will be transferred to a lakeside hotel. After some rest, we will explore the beauty of Pokhara Valley in the evening.
While leisurely walking along the bank of Fewa Lake, the second-largest lake in Nepal, you can admire the mountain view of Machhapuchhare. You may also opt for a boat ride on Fewa Lake or take a short hike to the World Peace Pagoda. The day concludes with a relaxing stroll around the mesmerizing lakeside area.
Overnight in Pokhara. Meals included: Breakfast (B/B).
Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,428 ft): 5-6 hours’ drive.
Today, after breakfast, we drive back to Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu, we will be transferred to our hotel. There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize our photos. We can spend the evening leisurely or perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping. Either way, we celebrate the successful completion of our journey with a farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight at Kathmandu. include B/B.
Today, after breakfast, we drive back to Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu, we will be transferred to our hotel. There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize our photos. We can spend the evening leisurely or perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping. Either way, we celebrate the successful completion of our journey with a farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight at Kathmandu. include B/B.
Fly home, farewell friend.
You are saying goodbye to the mountains as your journey in Nepal comes to an end today. We hope you enjoyed the tour with us and are sure you will return for another trip somewhere in the Himalayas again. Approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight, a representative from EVT will transfer you to the airport. On your way home, you’ll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
Includes/Excludes
- Arrival-Departure Via Private Tourist Cab as Per Itinerary.
- Kathmandu Hotel two nights with bed and breakfast plan.
- Kathmandu to Nepalgunj/Juphal and Jomsom/Pokhara to Kathmandu flight tickets for clients & guide
- Best available lodge and tea house accommodation during the trek.
- Full Board Meals(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner) & 3X(Tea or Coffee)
- A trekking or hiking leader - Fluent English speaking, experienced, knowledgeable with assistant trek guide (4 hikers:1 assistant guide) and needed Sherpa porters (2 trekkers:1 porter) together with their payments, assurance, gears, foods and accommodations.
- All necessary national park fees, permits and paper works (Shey phoksundo national park permits and TIMS)
- Entire administration and local Taxes, Guide and porter salary , food insurgence and Gov taxes
- Fresh Fruit after dinner everyday ,1 pc snickers or mars chocolate each person every day
- Trek Completion Certificate
- Farewell dinner
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fee and airport taxes
- Travel and rescue insurance, including helicopter evacuation
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, internet and tips
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary (B/L/D)
- Additional accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara outside the itinerary
- Optional sightseeing, excursions or adventure activities not included in the package
- Personal trekking gear and equipment (sleeping bags, walking poles, etc.)
- Any costs arising due to flight delays, bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances