Upper Dolpo Trek: A Thriving Experience on a Remote Route
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Destination
Upper Dolpo Trek: A Thriving Experience on a Remote Route
Duration
25 Days
Trip Grade
Hard
Start/End
Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Best Seasons
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November)
Transport
Private Car/Jeep/Flight
Accommodation
Teahouses/Lodges
Permits
Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Fee, Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, TIMS Card
Overview
The Upper Dolpo trek route is a remote, high-altitude trail in the Dolpo Region of western Nepal, known for its rugged terrain and untouched landscapes. It passes through Shey Phoksundo National Park, crosses high passes like Kang La and Saldang La, and includes highlights like Phoksundo Lake and Shey Gompa. The Upper Dolpo trekking map shows a circular route starting from Juphal, ideal for experienced trekkers seeking solitude and raw Himalayan beauty.
Nepal Upper Dolpo trekking preserves ancient Tibetan Buddhist and Bon traditions, with centuries-old monasteries and deep spiritual roots. Once part of the salt trade route with Tibet, the region remains culturally Tibetan. The Upper Dolpo trek map traces a path through villages that feel frozen in time, offering a rare glimpse into Nepal’s untouched mountain culture. Kathmandu to Dolpo distance is about 287 km.
Upper Dolpo Trek Highlights
- Stunning Shey Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s deepest lake.
- Enjoy breathtaking panoramas of Crystal Mountain, the Tibetan plateau, Kanjirowa Himalaya.
- Distant peaks of Mustang and Tibet from high passes like Nangdala La and Shey La.
- Tibetan Buddhist lifestyle of remote villages.
- Ever-changing landscapes, dense forests, and rivers.
- Spot rare Himalayan wildlife: blue sheep, marmots, Himalayan vultures, and even snow leopards.
- Visit centuries-old spiritual landmarks: the 900-year-old Bon monastery Tshowa, and Shey Gompa.
Upper Dolpo Trek Attitude and Elevation
Here is the Upper Dolpo Trekking Itinerary breakdown table with Day, location, and elevation throughout the Upper Dolpo trek route.
Day | Location | Elevation (m) | Trek Duration |
1 | Kathmandu | 1,300 m | — |
2 | Kathmandu – Nepalgunj | 150 m | Flight 50 mins / Drive 8 hours |
3 | Juphal to Dunai | 2,475 m to 2,140 m | 3 hours |
4 | Dunai to Chhepka | 2,687 m | 6 hours |
5 | Chhepka to Chunuwar / Amchi Hospital | 3,000 m | 6 hours |
6 | Chunuwar to Phoksundo Lake | 3,600 m | 5 – 6 hours |
7 | Phoksundo Lake (Rest Day) | 3,600 m | – |
8 | Phoksundo to Sallaghari | 3,630 m | 5 – 6 hours |
9 | Sallaghari to Nangdala High Camp | 4,717 m | 5 – 6 hours |
10 | Nangdala H.C. to Shey Gompa via Nangda La Pass | 4,343 m (Pass: 5,350 m) | 5 – 6 hours |
11 | Shey Gompa to Nangung Gompa via Shey La Pass | 4,360 m (Pass: 5,100 m) | 6 – 7 hours |
12 | Namgong Gompa to Saldang | 3,770 m | 4 – 5 hours |
13 | Saldang (Hike to Yangjer Gumba and back) | 3,770 m (Yangjer: 4,590 m) | Hike only |
14 | Saldang to Komash Village | 4,060 m | 6 hours |
15 | Komash Village to Shimen | 3,850 m | 6 hours |
16 | Shimen to Tinje Village | 4,110 m | 5 – 6 hours |
17 | Tinje Village to Yak Kharka | 4,750 m | 5 – 6 hours |
18 | Yak Kharka to Tokyu via Choila North Pass | 4,240 m (Pass: 5,040 m) | 5 – 6 hours |
19 | Tokyu to Dho Tarap | 3,944 m | 5 hours |
20 | Dho Tarap to Naworpani | 3,475 m | 5 – 6 hours |
21 | Naworpani to Lashicap | 2,775 m | 6 hours |
22 | Lashicap to Dunai | 2,140 m | 6 hours |
23 | Dunai to Juphal | 2,500 m | 5 – 6 hours |
24 | Juphal to Nepalgunj to Kathmandu | 1,300 m | 3 hours (flights) |
25 | Kathmandu (Departure) | 1,300 m | – |
Upper Dolpo Trek Itinerary - Day-by-day breakdown
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300 m)
- Pick-up is from the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).
- Transfer to a hotel in Thamel.
- Trek briefing & last-minute gear shopping.
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150 m)
- Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
- Flight duration will last approximately 50 minutes, and the drive duration will be around 8 hours.
- Overnight stay at Nepalgunj.
Day 3: Fly Nepalgunj to Juphal (2475 m); Trek to Dunai (2140m)
- Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (35 mins), then trek 3 hours downhill to Dunai (2,140m).
- Sleep in a lodge. Visit Dunai’s village, schools, and hike to Bon Gumba for views.
Day 4: Trek from Dunai to Chhepka (2687m)
- 6-hour trek from Dunai to Chhepka (2,687m) through forests and rivers.
- Show permits at Silughar check-post to enter Shey Phoksundo National Park.
- Walk by the Phoksundo River, cross bridges, pass villages (Kageni, Shangta), and stay overnight in Chhepka.
Day 5: Trek Chhepka to Chunuwar / Amchi Hospital (3000m)
- It is a 6-hour walk from Chhepka to Chunuwar (3,000m), crossing bridges over the Phoksundo River twice.
- Stop in Rechi (3,010m) for lunch, then trek by the river through quiet, green valleys.
- Sleep in tents near a traditional herbal clinic (Amchi) that treats locals with mountain herbs.
Day 6: Trek to Phoksundo Lake (3600m)
- 5-6 hour hike to Phoksundo Lake (3,600m), passing cedar forests and a winter village (Palam).
- Climb a ridge to see Nepal’s tallest waterfall (300m) and the turquoise lake for the first time.
- Sleep in tents near Ringmo village (solar-powered homes) and the magical Phoksundo shores.
Day 7: Rest day at Phoksundo Lake (3600m)
- Explore Ringmo Village: Wander the Tibetan-style village, learn its unique culture, and see solar-powered homes.
- Visit Ancient Monastery: Step inside Tshowa, a 900-year-old Bon monastery by the lake, and other sacred sites.
- Relax by Phoksundo Lake: Marvel at Nepal’s deepest turquoise lake, soak in epic views, and camp overnight.
Day 8: Trek Phoksundo to Sallaghari (3630m)
- A magical 5-6 hour walk from Phoksundo Lake to Sallaghari, featuring cliff trails, forest paths, and camping in a pine forest.
Day 9: Trek Sallaghari to Nangdala High Camp (4717m)
- A steep 5-6 hour climb along the Tuk Kyaksa river, crossing bridges and a canyon, to camp at Nangdala High Camp (4,717m).
Day 10: Trek Nangdala H.C. to Shey Gompa (4343 m) via Nanagda LA pass (5350 m) - 5/6 hours
- Trek to Shey Gompa and Crystal Mountain, crossing the Kang La Pass with a 3-hour uphill climb.
- Enjoy amazing views of Crystal Mountain, the Tibetan peaks, and Dolpo’s beautiful landscape.
- Stay at Shey Gompa, where a big festival is held every 12 years.
Day 11: Trek Shey Gompa to Nangung Gompa (4360 m) via Shay La Pass (5100 m) – 6/7 hours
- Explore the 800-year-old Shey Gompa, known as Shelri Sumdho, featured in The Snow Leopard and Caravan movies.
- Trek along Sephu Khola, climb Shey La Pass, and enjoy views of Mustang, Tibet, Kanjirowa, and Crystal Mountain.
- Descend to Namgung in about 2 hours and stay there for the night.
Day 12: Trek Namgong Gompa to Saldang (3770 m) – 4/5 hours
- Explore the cliffside Namgung Monastery before starting the trek.
- Walk along Namga Khola, passing herding spots to reach Saldang village.
- Explore Saldang, enjoy local drinks, and learn about Buddhist and Amchi traditions.
Day 13: Rest day at Saldang, hike to Yangjer Gumba (4590 m)
- After breakfast, we will hike to Yangjer, which is the richest monastery in this region.
- We will explore around and return to Saldang.
Day 14: Trek to Komash village (4060 m) – 6 hours
- We will follow the Saldang Lek along the Rapyha Khola.
- We will ascend to 4500 m and then descend to the Komash village.
Day 15: Trek from Komash village to Shimen (3850 m) –6 hours
- After starting our trek, we might encounter some rare species like Blue sheep and snow leopards.
- We will pass through many small villages, giving local experiences.
Day 16: Trek to Tinje village (4110 m) – 5/6 hours
- Trek for 5 hours along Panjyang Khola, passing villages and monasteries.
- Reach the scenic Tinje Valley, known for its natural airstrip.
- Set up camp at Tinje village for the night.
Day 17: Trek from Tinje Village to Yak Kharka (4750 m) – 5/6 hours
- Trek 5–6 hours along the Panjyan River, passing Chhamdang village.
- Walk past the confluence of Chholtam Khola and Panjyan Khola, then cross Thalum Khola.
- Reach Yak Kharka, a wide open grazing ground for yaks and sheep, and stay overnight.
Day 18: Trek from Yak Kharka to Tokyu (4240 m) – 5/6 hours
- Trek from Yak Kharka to Tokyu, starting with a bridge crossing over Sulun Khola.
- Climb for about 2 hours to reach Choila North Pass (5040 m) with stunning views.
- Descend to Tokyu and set up a stay there for the night.
Day 19: Trek from Tokyu to Dho Tarap (3944 m) –5 hours
- Today marks the 20th day of our journey.
- In Dho Trap, we take a good rest for the further journey.
Day 20: Trek from Dho Trap to Naworpani (3475 m) – 5/6 hours
- Trek a long distance along flat trails to the confluence of Tarap Khola and Mirubabane Khola.
- Cross Klang Khola near Langa Camp and continue along Tarap Khola.
- Pass villages like Sisaul, Gyamghar, and Toltol before staying at Naworpani.
Day 21: Trek from Nawopani to Lashicap (2775 m)-6 hours
- Continue trekking along Tarap Khola, with changing views and emerging green forests.
- Ascend to Lamchaur, cross Lahini Odar, and descend to Chhedhul Gompa.
- Follow the trail further to reach Laisicap and set up camp there.
Day 22: Trek from Lashicap to Dunai (2140 m)- 6 hours
- Trek above the Thuli Bheri River through green lands to reach Tarakot.
- Cross a small stream, passing villages like Lawan and Byasgad.
- Enjoy views of forests and terraced fields before reaching Dunai for a room stay.
Day 23: Trek from Dunai to Juphal (2500 m)- 5/6 hours
- Today marks the last day of the trek.
- We will follow the trail along the Bheri River until we reach Kalagawda.
- From Kalagawda, we will trek to reach Juphal.
Day 24: Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj, fly from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu- 3 hours
- Take an early flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, then connect to Kathmandu.
- Spend the day exploring Thamel, Ason, or Indrachowk for souvenirs.
- Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Nepalese restaurant with cultural performances.
Day 25: Final Departure from Kathmandu
- Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for your international flight.
- Time to reflect on your journey and be grateful for the memories.
Packing Tips for the Upper Dolpo Trek
Head
- Warm hat & cap
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Headlight
- Face Mask or Balaclava
- Neck Gaiter
- Beanie
Body
- Base Layers
- Waterproof jacket
- Thermal Gloves
- Trekking Trousers and Shorts
- Personal Hygiene Items
- Fleece Jacket
- Thermal Shirts and Pants
Footwear
- Trekking shoes
- Hiking boots
- Warm Hiking socks
- Gaiters
Essentials/Equipment
- Sleeping bag
- First aid kit
- Trekking poles & Raincoat
- Water Bottles
- High-energy snacks
- Maps & Compass/GPS
- Permits/ Cash
Dolpo Weather and Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April to June) - Mild weather, clear skies, and colorful landscapes make trekking enjoyable. Dolpo temperature at this time is moderate.
- Autumn (September to October) - Best season with clear views, dry trails, and vibrant festivals.
- Off-Season (Nov - March & July - Aug) - Harsh winter snow and summer rains make trekking difficult and less accessible.
Local Culture, Wildlife, and Scenic Experience
The Dolpo Trek Nepal will offer you an interesting look into the rich cultural history of the Tibetan groups that live in the area. You will come across historic monasteries, lively Buddhist ceremonies, and the artistry of regional craftsmanship as you travel the breathtaking landscapes. By interacting with pleasant locals, you can learn about their hardy ways of living.
During the Upper Dolpo trek, you can spot rare Himalayan wildlife such as blue sheep, marmots, Himalayan vultures, and even snow leopards within the untouched Shey Phoksundo National Park.
You can also experience deep river canyons, emerald pine forests, dramatic waterfalls, high-altitude deserts, and mystical valleys coming together to create a surreal and unforgettable Himalayan journey.
What is the Upper Dolpo Trek?
The Upper Dolpo trek takes you deep into the remote and rugged wilderness of Dolpo, Nepal, a hidden gem nestled in the far western part of the country. This mystical region preserves ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions, where centuries-old monasteries like Shey Gompa and unique Bon practices still thrive.
The Dolpo region of Nepal is deeply spiritual and culturally rich, inhabited by people who follow a lifestyle shaped by rugged terrains and high altitudes. As you embark on the Upper Dolpo trek, you’ll witness traditional stone villages, yak caravans, and local festivals
Known for its breathtaking landscapes and demanding trekking routes, Upper Dolpo is a highlight for adventurous travelers. It also forms a significant part of Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal’s largest national park, preserving the pristine beauty and rich culture of Dolpo.
The Dolpo region in Nepal promises solitude, serenity, and an authentic wilderness adventure. The journey through Dolpo is not just a trek; it's a transformative experience into one of the most amazing and rewarding corners of the Himalayas.
Why Choose Upper Dolpo for Your Next Adventure?
- Remote and Untouched Beauty - Trekking Dolpo in Nepal offers stunning landscapes, sacred mountains, and isolated villages far from modern influence.
- Rich Culture and Tradition - Explore the Dolpo Region in Nepal to experience ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, monasteries, and traditional Amchi medicine practices.
- Adventure and Solitude - Cross high mountain passes and explore hidden valleys with very few trekkers around, offering peace and adventure.
- Spiritual and Scenic Experience - Visit sacred sites like Shey Gompa and Crystal Mountain while enjoying breathtaking views of the Himalayas and serene nature.
Cost Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Trek accommodation (tea house/camping)
- Expert guide + porters (1 porter per 2 trekkers, carries 25kg)
- Restricted Area Permit, TIMS, and trekking permits
- Required gear (sleeping bag, down jacket)
- Guide/porter salary, transport, food, clothing, and insurance
- First Aid medical kit
- Emergency rescue assistance (via your travel insurance)
- Government taxes, service charges, and itinerary program
Cost Excludes
- International Flight Ticket and Nepalese Visa Fee
- All kinds of drinks (soft and alcoholic)
- Visa and international flights
- Travel and Rescue Insurance
- Personal expenses and special accommodations
- Staff tips and rescue/evacuation costs
Upper Dolpo Trek Altitude and Difficulty
Trekking to the Upper Dolpo region is a difficult experience that includes rocky pathways, steep ascents, and high mountain passes like the Saldang La (5,200m) and Kang La (5,360m). The terrain is very remote and rugged. In addition to being exhausting, these high-altitude crossings put hikers to the test due to thinner air and the possibility of altitude sickness. Similar to that, this walk requires long trekking days up to eight hours on exposed, narrow, and uneven paths.
However, it is also made more difficult by location and insufficient facilities. There are few lodging options, and camping is required in many areas, which complicates logistics. Moving forward, weather conditions might change suddenly, particularly in high passes where strong winds and snow can make navigation even more challenging.
Altitude Sickness and Safety Tips
The Upper Dolpo trek involves multiple high passes above 5,000 meters, making altitude sickness a real risk. You need to acclimatize properly with rest days, ascend gradually, stay well-hydrated, and recognize symptoms like headache, nausea, or shortness of breath. If symptoms worsen, descend immediately.
Trek with a licensed guide familiar with the region’s challenges, carry a basic first-aid kit and altitude medication, and always inform someone of your daily route. Due to the region’s remoteness, be prepared for limited communication and emergency evacuation options.
Permits and Regulations for Upper Dolpo Trek
There are some Upper Dolpo permits that trekkers are required to bring while trekking.
- Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit ($20 each week plus $5 for every extra day)
- Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Fee: $30.
- Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit ($500 entrance fee for the first ten days and an additional $50 per day after that)
- TIMS Card $20
Why Choose Upper Dolpo Trek With Us?
At Hi Nepal Travels and Treks Pvt. Ltd, we bring over 9 years of experience navigating Nepal’s most remote and sacred trails, including the hidden gem of Upper Dolpo. This trek isn’t just about landscapes; it’s about stepping into a living, untouched Tibetan culture. Our expert guides, deep local knowledge, and careful logistics ensure a safe, immersive, and unforgettable journey through one of the last true wilderness regions in the Himalayas.
Upper Dolpo Trek Cost Breakdown
- Budget: There is no fixed budget because everyone has different needs, and each need has a different cost. The amount depends on how luxurious you want your accommodations, meals, and other services to be.
- Transportation: The price will vary based on the type of transportation you choose and the size of your group.
- Accommodations and Meals: The cost of your accommodations and meals will depend on the region and your personal preferences. You can eat traditional foods while trekking, such as dal-bhat and tarkari (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), Momo, noodle soup, thukpa, local bread, pasta, etc. The lodge has a teahouse where you are sleeping.
- Guide and Porter: The experience level will determine how much the guide and porter cost.
- Permits: Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit ($20 each week plus $5 for every extra day), Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Fee: $30, Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit ($500 entrance fee for the first ten days and an additional $50 per day after that), TIMS Card $20.
FAQs
Do I need a special permit for the Nepal Dolpo Trek?
Yes, trekkers need a Restricted Area Permit for Upper Dolpo and a Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit.
How difficult is the Upper Dolpo Trek?
It’s a challenging trek, suitable for experienced trekkers. You’ll cross high passes over 5,000 meters and camp in remote areas, so good fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.
How long does the Upper Dolpo Trek take?
The full trek usually takes 25 to 28 days, depending on the route, acclimatization, and side trips.
Is Wi-Fi or a mobile signal available during the trek?
Mobile signal is very limited or unavailable in most of Upper Dolpo.
What is the difference between Upper Dolpo and Lower Dolpo?
While the Lower Dolpo Trek is comparatively simpler and easier to reach, the Upper Dolpo Trek is more isolated, difficult, and requires specific permits.
