The Upper Dolpo Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and mystical journeys, taking you deep into the hidden trans-Himalayan region of Upper Dolpo. Isolated by high mountain ranges and largely untouched by modern development, this region preserves ancient Tibetan culture, rugged landscapes, and a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.
This extraordinary trek leads you through barren valleys, high passes, and traditional villages where Tibetan Buddhism and Bon religion are still widely practiced. One of the major highlights is the stunning Shey Phoksundo Lake, known for its deep blue waters and dramatic surrounding cliffs. The trail also takes you to the sacred Shey Gompa, an important spiritual center nestled beneath the Crystal Mountain.
Due to its remoteness, the Upper Dolpo Trek is considered a challenging and adventurous expedition. Trekkers cross several high mountain passes, including the famous Kang La Pass, often above 5,000 meters, while experiencing raw, untouched Himalayan wilderness.
Unlike popular trekking regions such as Everest Region or Annapurna Region, Upper Dolpo offers true solitude and an authentic cultural experience. With limited infrastructure and fewer trekkers, it is ideal for those seeking a unique off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Organized by Kathmandu Guides Treks, this journey combines expert guidance, proper acclimatization, and well-planned logistics to ensure a safe and unforgettable exploration of one of Nepal’s most extraordinary and least-explored regions.
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ITINÉRAIRE
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Arrive in Kathmandu and meet your guide. Prepare for your trek permits and enjoy a welcome briefing about the Upper Dolpo journey.
Flight to Nepalgunj (150m)
Take a short domestic flight to Nepalgunj Juphal, the starting point of the trek. Begin trekking to Singiri (2,500m), passing through remote forests and small villages.
Flight Nepalgunj to Juphal – Trek to Singiri (2,500m)
Take an early morning flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal
Singiri to Lahini (2,600m)
A gradual and scenic walk through river valleys and remote settlements. Lahini village offers your first taste of Upper Dolpo’s Tibetan-influenced culture and stunning landscapes.
Lahini to Pigu Phuk (3,700m)
Trek becomes steeper as you ascend into higher altitudes. Cross ridges, small streams, and yak grazing areas to reach Pigu Phuk at 3,700m. Enjoy the expansive views of snow-capped peaks.
Pigu Phuk to Dho (4,000m)
Arrive in Dho, a traditional Dolpo village at 4,000m. Explore ancient stone houses and local monasteries while soaking in the serene valley atmosphere.
Acclimatization Day at Dho (4,000m)
Rest and acclimatize to high altitude. Optional short hikes around Dho provide stunning views of surrounding mountains and valleys.
Dho to Tarap – Numla Base Camp (4,500m)
Trek along the picturesque Tarap Valley, observing traditional Dolpo villages and rugged landscapes. Camp near Numla Base Camp at 4,500m with breathtaking mountain panoramas.
Numla Base Camp to Num La Pass (5,200m) via Langmosi La (4,900m)
Cross the challenging Num La Pass at 5,200m. This high-altitude trek rewards you with dramatic Himalayan vistas. Descend slightly to Langmosi La (4,900m) before reaching your campsite.
Langmosi La to Nyalde (3,900m)
Descend through alpine valleys to reach Nyalde village at 3,900m. Enjoy terraced fields, yak pastures, and interactions with local villagers.
Nyalde to Sibu Village
Trek through remote trails with rocky terrain and panoramic mountain views, reaching Sibu, a village preserving traditional Dolpo culture.
Sibu to Saldang (4,200m)
Ascend to Saldang, an important Dolpo settlement. Explore monasteries, local markets, and experience daily Tibetan-influenced life amidst towering peaks.
Rest Day in Saldang (4,200m)
Relax, acclimatize, and explore Saldang. Visit local monasteries, interact with monks, and enjoy the tranquil environment.
Saldang to Yangsher (4,300m)
Trek through rugged valleys and highland pastures, reaching Yangsher village at 4,300m. Take in the solitude and untouched beauty of Upper Dolpo.
Yangsher to Karang (4,200m)
A moderate trek through the scenic valley brings you to Karang village. Observe the unique stone architecture and yak grazing patterns in this remote Himalayan region.
Karang to Phyger
Trek along undulating highland trails through pristine valleys and rivers, with opportunities for photography of mountains and local life.
Phyger to Tra
Follow trails along riverbanks and rugged landscapes to reach Tra village, enjoying peaceful wilderness and occasional herder settlements.
Tra to Shey Gompa (4,100m)
Reach the sacred Shey Gompa at 4,100m. Explore this historic monastery, an important spiritual site of Upper Dolpo.
Explore Around Shey Gompa
Spend a full day visiting the monastery, nearby chortens, and walking along trails with panoramic mountain views. Engage with monks and learn about Bon and Buddhist traditions.
Shey Gompa to Phoksundo Khola (4,000m)
Descend to Phoksundo Khola, a river cutting through deep valleys. The trail offers dramatic scenery with cliffs, forests, and occasional wildlife sightings.
Phoksundo Khola to Ringmo (3,500m)
Arrive at Ringmo village beside Shey Phoksundo Lake. Enjoy breathtaking views, reflections of cliffs in turquoise waters, and local Tibetan culture.
Ringmo to Sepka
Trek along quiet valleys with limited settlements. Enjoy the solitude and pristine Himalayan landscapes while gradually descending toward Sepka village.
Sepka to Juphal
Descend further along river valleys and open meadows to return to Juphal, retracing part of your trek with final panoramic views of Upper Dolpo.
Juphal to Nepalgunj – Flight to Kathmandu
Fly back to Nepalgunj, then connect to Kathmandu. Overnight in Kathmandu to rest after the long trek.
Free Days in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Relax or explore cultural and historical sites of Kathmandu, including UNESCO World Heritage temples, local markets, and traditional streets.
Departure from Kathmandu
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Conclude a remarkable adventure through one of Nepal’s most remote and untouched Himalayan regions.
✔LE PRIX COMPREND
- Hotel in kathmandu
- Quality lodge accommodation during trek
- Flight Kathmandu - Lukla - Kathmandu
- Airport transfers by Private vehicle
- Expert Local Sherpa guide and poters during trek
- Porters (1 Porter for 2 Person )
- TIMS Card and Everest trekking permit fee
- Guides and porters pay, meals and insurance
- Welcome dinner in KTM
✖LE PRIX NE COMPREND PAS
- International Airfare and Nepal Visa fee
- Travel and Health Insurance-most recomended
- Emergency Helicopter Rescue Insurance
- Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu:
- Any Alcoholic Drinks, Water and deserts during Trek
- Gratitudes for Guide and Porters
- Phone, internet & Battery Charges bills during trek.
- Unforeseen Cost such as Flight Delayed
- All the cost which is not mention in what is included
FAQs
Upper Dolpo is a remote and restricted region in western Nepal, near the Tibetan border. It is famous for its untouched landscapes, Tibetan culture, and Shey Phoksundo Lake.
Yes, Upper Dolpo is a restricted area. You need:
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit
- Kathmandu Guides Treks Company arranges all permits for you.
It is a challenging trek due to:
- High altitude (over 5,000 m passes)
- Remote trails
- Long walking days
- Good physical fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.
The best seasons are:
- Spring (April–June)
- Autumn (September–November)
- Dolpo lies in a rain shadow area, so it is also possible during monsoon.
The trek usually takes 20–25 days, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization days.
- Mostly camping (tent) trekking
- Limited basic teahouses in some villages
- Kathmandu Guides Treks provides full camping support.
Yes, due to high elevation. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and gradual ascent are essential. Guides are trained to handle altitude-related issues.
- Freshly prepared meals by trekking cooks
- Local foods like dal bhat, noodles, soup
- Food variety is limited due to remoteness.
Yes, hiring a licensed guide is mandatory for restricted areas. Porters are highly recommended to carry heavy gear.
- Experienced local guides
- Complete permit management
- Safe and well-organized itineraries
- Strong focus on client safety and cultural experience
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