Upper Dolpo Trek
Overview
Located in the rain shadow of the Dhaulagiri massif, Upper Dolpo offers a landscape and culture more akin to Tibet than the rest of Nepal. This challenging trek takes adventurers through a harsh yet beautiful terrain of high desert plateaus, snow-capped peaks, and hidden valleys, providing a rare glimpse into a world that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
The trek is renowned for its pristine natural beauty, ancient Bon and Buddhist monasteries, and the resilient Dolpo-pa people who have preserved their unique way of life in this harsh environment. Highlights include crossing high mountain passes with panoramic Himalayan views, visiting the turquoise Phoksundo Lake, and exploring Shey Gompa, known as the spiritual heart of Upper Dolpo.
- Region: Upper Dolpo, Western Nepal
- Duration: 21-25 days (typical)
- Highest point: Kang La Pass, 5,350m (17,552 ft)
- Accommodation: Mainly camping, with occasional simple teahouses
- Difficulty: Very challenging
- Permits & Fees:
- Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit
- Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit
- TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card
Itinerary
Day 1-2: Kathmandu to Juphal
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then to Juphal (2,320m), the gateway to Dolpo.
Travel Tip: The flight to Juphal is weather-dependent. Be prepared for potential delays.
Day 3-5: Trek to Dunai and Ankhe
Begin the trek through lower Dolpo, passing Dunai and reaching Ankhe (2,896m).
Cultural Insight: Observe the transition from Hindu to Buddhist cultures as you move higher into Dolpo.
Day 6-8: To Phoksundo Lake via Sulighat
Trek through forests and along river valleys to reach the stunning Phoksundo Lake (3,611m).
Natural Wonder: Phoksundo Lake is one of Nepal's deepest and most beautiful alpine lakes.
Day 9-10: Acclimatization and Exploration
Rest and acclimatize at Phoksundo Lake. Optional hike to Ringmo village and nearby waterfalls.
Photography Tip: The crystal-clear waters of Phoksundo Lake offer incredible reflections of the surrounding mountains.
Day 11-13: Trek to Shey Gompa
Leave Phoksundo and trek towards Shey Gompa (4,343m), crossing the challenging Kang La Pass (5,350m).
Altitude Warning: This section involves significant altitude gain. Move slowly and stay alert for signs of altitude sickness.
Day 14-15: Explore Shey Gompa
Rest day at Shey Gompa. Explore this ancient monastery and its surroundings.
Cultural Experience: Shey Gompa, also known as the Crystal Monastery, is a vital center of Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Day 16-18: Trek to Saldang via Namgung
Cross another high pass and descend to Namgung, then on to Saldang (3,770m), one of the largest villages in Inner Dolpo.
Local Interaction: Saldang offers a chance to interact with local Dolpo-pa people and observe their traditional lifestyle.
Day 19-21: Return Trek to Juphal
Begin the return journey, trekking back towards Juphal via a different route.
Reflection Time: Use these days to reflect on the unique landscapes and cultures you've experienced.
Day 22-23: Fly back to Kathmandu
Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj, then to Kathmandu, marking the end of this extraordinary trek.
Weather Note: Be prepared for potential flight delays due to Juphal's unpredictable weather.
Extension Options
1. Mustang to Dolpo Trek (10-12 days)
- Highlights: Combine Upper Dolpo with the mystical Kingdom of Lo (Upper Mustang)
- Description: After Dolpo, continue east into Upper Mustang, exploring its unique landscape and Tibetan culture
- Best for: Experienced trekkers seeking an extended high-altitude adventure
2. Dho Tarap Valley Exploration (4-5 days)
- Highlights: Deeper exploration of the Dho Tarap Valley, one of the highest inhabited valleys in Nepal
- Description: Add extra days to explore the Dho Tarap Valley, its villages, and ancient monasteries
- Best for: Those interested in immersing themselves further in Dolpo's unique culture
3. Sisne Himal Base Camp (6-7 days)
- Highlights: Trek to the base of Sisne Himal (5,849m), a sacred mountain in Dolpo
- Description: Add a side trip to Sisne Himal Base Camp from Juphal before or after the main trek
- Best for: Trekkers looking to add a less-traveled, challenging extension to their Dolpo experience