Walk About International

Upper Dolpo Trek

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Duration
24 days
Max. Elevation
5670m
Group size
Min 1+
Level
MODERATE
Transportation
Flight 
Best Season
May to june, September to october, july to august, december to february
Accomodation
3*** Hotel 
Meals
B/L/D
Starts at
Kathmamdu
Ends at
Kathmandu
Trip Route

Highlights

    • Explore the pristine wilderness of Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to unique flora, fauna, and stunning landscapes.
    • Marvel at the captivating beauty of Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake in Nepal, surrounded by rugged cliffs and snow-covered peaks.
    • Visit ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, including the renowned Shey Gompa, providing insight into the region's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
    • Navigate challenging mountain passes, such as Shey La, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
    • Encounter traditional nomadic villages and engage with the locals, gaining a firsthand experience of their unique way of life and hospitality.
    • Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Upper Dolpo, characterized by centuries-old traditions, rituals, and ancient monastic practices.
    • Trek through barren landscapes, experiencing the stark beauty of high-altitude deserts and the unique charm of the Upper Dolpo region.
    • Explore Shey Gompa, a significant monastery with historical and religious significance, set against a backdrop of rugged mountains.
    • Visit remote villages like Phoksundo, characterized by traditional stone houses, prayer flags, and a sense of isolation that adds to their allure.
    • Experience the serenity of high-altitude environments, where tranquility and the beauty of the Himalayas create an otherworldly atmosphere.
    • Witness yak caravans and gain insights into the nomadic way of life, where yaks play a crucial role in transportation and livelihood.
    • Follow ancient trade routes that have connected the Dolpo region with Tibet for centuries, reflecting the historical and cultural ties between the two regions.
    • Encounter the unique architecture of Upper Dolpo, with barrel-shaped houses adorned with intricate carvings, showcasing the craftsmanship of the local people.
    • Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region, including blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, and various bird species, adding to the trek's natural appeal.
    • Feel the spiritual ambiance of the monasteries and sacred sites, contributing to the overall sense of tranquility and reverence in Upper Dolpo.

Overview

The Upper Dolpo Trek is an extraordinary journey into the remote and culturally rich landscapes of the Dolpo region in western Nepal. It is renowned for its untouched wilderness, ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, and spectacular high-altitude scenery. This trek takes adventurers into the upper reaches of Dolpo, where they can witness barren landscapes, serene lakes, and traditional villages.

Throughout the trek, participants navigate challenging mountain passes, including the formidable Shey La. The journey includes visits to isolated villages like Phoksundo and Shey Gompa, where centuries-old monasteries and unique cultural practices provide a glimpse into the region's rich heritage.

The Upper Dolpo Trek offers a rare opportunity for adventurers to immerse themselves in a region that remains untouched by modernity. It reveals a world of spiritual tranquility, nomadic traditions, and breathtaking Himalayan beauty, making it a unique and unforgettable experience for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in the heart of Nepal.

Important Note

Trip Itinerary

The adventure kicks off with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a bustling city situated at an altitude of 150 meters (492 feet). The flight takes approximately 50 minutes, setting the stage for the exciting journey ahead.

From Nepalgunj, another flight takes you to Jhupal, followed by a trek to Dunai. Located at an elevation of 2850 meters (9350 feet), the trek from Jhupal to Dunai unfolds over a span of 4 hours, offering a gradual ascent into the mountainous terrain. 

The trek continues from Dunai to Ankhe, a picturesque location nestled at an altitude of 2896 meters (9501 feet). The trail meanders through diverse landscapes, and the journey takes about 6 hours.

Moving forward, the trek from Ankhe leads to Sulighat at 3180 meters (10433 feet). This leg of the journey takes approximately 5 hours, presenting trekkers with changing scenery and elevations.

The adventure progresses from Sulighat to the enchanting Phoksundo, situated at an elevation of 3612 meters (11850 feet). This day's trek spans around 5 hours, allowing trekkers to absorb the breathtaking landscapes.

A well-deserved acclimatization day is spent at Phoksundo, allowing trekkers to adjust to the altitude at 3612 meters (11850 feet). This leisurely day includes a 2-hour exploration of the surroundings.

The trek resumes from Phoksundo to Phoksundo Khola Camp, positioned at 3507 meters (11505 feet). The journey unfolds over 5 hours, offering stunning views and diverse terrain.

Continuing the trek, you proceed from Phoksundo Khola Camp to Phoksundo Bhanjyang at 3910 meters (12828 feet). This leg of the journey lasts approximately 6 hours, providing both challenges and rewards.

The trek leads from Phoksundo Bhanjyang to Shey Gompa, an ancient monastery at an altitude of 4500 meters (14763 feet). The day's trek lasts about 6 hours, immersing trekkers in both cultural and natural wonders.

Another day for acclimatization is observed at Shey Gompa, with a 3-hour exploration of the surroundings at the same altitude.

From Shey Gompa, the trek takes you to Namduna Gaon at 4800 meters (15748 feet) over a 6-hour duration, providing panoramic views of the Himalayan landscape.

Continuing the journey, the trek from Namduna Gaon leads to Saldang at 3620 meters (11876 feet) in approximately 5 hours.

The trail from Saldang unfolds to Yangze Gompa at 4960 meters (16272 feet), offering a 4-hour trek through high-altitude landscapes.

Moving forward, the trek takes you to Sibu at 4560 meters (14960 feet), with a trekking time of about 6 hours.

The journey continues from Sibu to Jeng La Phedi at 4900 meters (16075 feet) over a 6-hour trek, crossing challenging terrains and offering stunning views.

Crossing the Jeng La Pass, the trek leads to Tokyu Gaon at 4209 meters (13809 feet) in approximately 7 hours, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Himalayas.

From Tokyu Gaon, the trek proceeds to Dho Tarap at 4040 meters (13254 feet) in about 5 hours, immersing trekkers in the unique culture of the region.

Another acclimatization day is observed at Dho Tarap, with a 2-hour exploration of the surroundings at 4040 meters (13254 feet).

The journey continues from Dho Tarap to Tarap Khola at 3800 meters (12467 feet), presenting a 6-hour trek through diverse landscapes.

The trek leads from Tarap Khola to Khani Gaon at 3150 meters (10334 feet), spanning about 5 hours and offering a descent into lower altitudes.

Moving forward, the trek from Khani Gaon to Tarakot unfolds over approximately 5 hours, showcasing the changing landscapes.

From Tarakot, the journey takes you back to Dunai at 2850 meters (9350 feet), with a trekking time of about 6 hours.

The trek from Dunai to Jhupal covers a distance in approximately 3 hours, concluding the mountainous adventure.

The final leg of the journey includes flights from Jhupal to Nepalgunj and then to Kathmandu. Returning to an altitude of 1300 meters (4265 feet), the flights collectively take around 2 hours, marking the end of this extraordinary trek through the Lower Dolpo region.

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Includes

    • accommodation in Nepalgunj
    • Guide for 24 days
    • Required number of porters for 25 days
    • Kathmandu Nepalgunj Kathmandu Flight
    • Nepalgunj Jhupal Nepalgunj Flight
    • Shey Phoksundo national park permit
    • Restrcted area permit
    • breakfast, lunch and dinner while on the trek

Doesn't Include

    • Lunch and dinner in Nepalgunj

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Art representing various natural and cultutal heritages of Nepal