The Upper Dolpo Trek takes you through one of the most remote and culturally rich regions of Nepal, offering a unique blend of Tibetan culture, stunning landscapes, and challenging high-altitude trekking. Situated in the far northwest of Nepal, the Upper Dolpo region is home to the Shey Phoksundo National Park and features Phoksundo Lake, one of the highest-altitude lakes in the world. This trek offers an opportunity to explore ancient monasteries, traditional Tibetan villages, and beautiful landscapes that range from green valleys to rugged, snow-capped peaks. Along the way, you will experience the lifestyle of the local Dolpo people, who follow Tibetan Buddhism and have preserved their culture for centuries.
Duration
19 days
Difficulty Level
Challenging
Trip Start and End
Kathamandu to Kathamandu
Best Season
Spring & Autumn
Trip Area
Dolpo Region
Max Elevation
5,190 meters
Per Day Walk
6-8 hours per day
Group Size
2-12 people
Accomodation
: Tea houses, local lodges,
Stunning turquoise Phoksundo Lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Rich biodiversity in Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to endangered snow leopards.
Experience traditional Tibetan Buddhism and ancient monasteries.
High-altitude Numa La and Baga La passes offering breathtaking views.
Traditional villages showcasing the Dolpo culture.
Wildlife like blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, and dramatic landscapes.
The sight of the majestic Everest and its surrounding peaks offers a backdrop for romance like no other.
Engage with the Sherpa culture, gaining insights into their traditions and Buddhist practices, enriching your journey with spiritual depth.
Savor the taste of local dishes, each a delightful fusion of traditional ingredients and mountain freshness.
Every challenge overcome and every laughter shared becomes a precious memory, etching this trek into the story of your lives.
Standing together at Everest Base Camp, you’ll feel a sense of shared triumph that only such a formidable quest can provide.
A detailed description of the itinerary
Arrive in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel, and rest. You will have an introductory briefing on the trek.
Fly to Nepalgunj, a city in western Nepal. The flight is short but scenic. After arriving, rest and prepare for the trek.
Take a morning flight from Nepalgunj to Jhupal, the starting point of the trek. Upon arrival, start your trek towards Dunai. You’ll pass through beautiful landscapes and reach Dunai by the evening.
Continue your trek along the Bheri River and arrive at Dunai, which is the administrative center of the Dolpo region.
Trek along the Bheri River to Tarakot, a beautiful village that marks the start of the Dolpo region. Visit Tarakot Fort, an ancient structure located on a hilltop.
Continue towards Laini, passing through forests and valleys. You will gain altitude gradually as you approach the higher regions.
Trek through dense forests to Nawapani, a small village offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Today’s trek takes you into the Do Tarap valley, a remote Tibetan village known for its Buddhist monasteries and unique culture. Spend the night here.
Spend the day acclimatizing to the altitude. You can explore the village, visit the monasteries, and learn about the traditional Tibetan culture of the region.
Trek towards the base of Numa La Pass, the highest point of the trek. The route will take you through alpine meadows and rugged terrain.
You will cross Numa La Pass (5,190m), the highest pass of the trek. After crossing, descend to Jhalala, a beautiful campsite where you’ll spend the night.
Descend into the Phoksundo Valley and trek to the scenic Phoksundo Lake. The lake is one of the most stunning and serene locations in Nepal, known for its turquoise waters.
Spend the day relaxing and exploring Phoksundo Lake. Visit the nearby Phoksundo Monastery and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Descend from Phoksundo Lake to Chhepka, a small settlement. The trek takes you through a lush landscape of forests and villages.
Continue descending to Shyanta, a remote village along the trail. You’ll enjoy the peaceful surroundings and scenic views of the landscape.
Retrace your steps back to Dunai, where you can rest and enjoy the local culture.
Continue your trek back to Jhupal, where you will stay for the night before flying out the next day.
Fly back from Jhupal to Nepalgunj, and then spend the day resting.
Take a morning flight back to Kathmandu. After arriving, check into your hotel and rest.
➤ Trekking boots with ankle support
➤ Warm clothing (layers, down jacket, thermal wear)
➤ Sleeping bag (suitable for cold weather)
➤ Water purification system (tablets, filter)
➤ Trekking poles
➤ Sunscreen and sunglasses
A detailed description of Trip FAQs
The best seasons for trekking in Upper Dolpo are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), as the weather is clear and ideal for high-altitude trekking.
The trek is challenging and requires good physical fitness. It involves long days of walking, high-altitude passes, and remote areas with limited facilities.
You will need a Trekking Permit, Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, and Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit for this trek.
Yes, it is mandatory to trek with a guide in the Dolpo region due to the restricted nature of the area. A guide will ensure safety and assist with logistics.
Accommodation is mainly in tea houses and local lodges at lower altitudes, while camping is required in higher areas.
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