Overview
Board on a legendary adventure into the restricted paradise of Nepal on the Upper Dolpo Trek, a challenging 28-day expedition. This trek is a true hidden gem, offering unparalleled isolation, breath taking scenery, and a deep dive into the unique culture of the region.
- Traverse the Hidden Kingdom: Step into a land untouched by time in Upper Dolpo, a remote region bordering Tibet. Witness the dramatic landscapes, from arid valleys carved by theTrishuli Gandaki River to towering snow-capped peaks like Dhaulagiri. Explore the mysterious Crystal Mountain, a sacred site for both Buddhists and Hindus.
- Shey Phoksundo National Park Adventure: Engage yourself in the beauty of Shey Phoksundo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hike alongside the turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake in Nepal, and marvel at its diverse flora and fauna, including blue sheep and snow leopards (if you’re lucky!).
- Bon Culture Encounter: Engage with the unique culture of the Bon people, an ancient pre-Buddhist religion with deep roots in the region. Visit ancient monasteries adorned with prayer flags and witness traditional ceremonies, offering a glimpse into a fascinating way of life.
- A Challenge for Experienced Trekkers: The Upper Dolpo Trek demands a high level of fitness and experience. Expect long trekking days, high altitude sections requiring proper adaptation, and the possibility of unpredictable weather conditions. Several high passes exceeding 5,000 meters, like the Kang La Pass (5,360m), will test your physical and mental strength.
- Restricted Area Permits: Due to its remoteness and cultural significance, Upper Dolpo requires special permits for entry. This exclusivity ensures a pristine environment and an off-the-beaten-path adventure unlike any other.
The Upper Dolpo Trek is a dream adventure for seasoned trekkers seeking a challenge and a chance to explore a hidden gem. Prepare for breath taking landscapes, a unique cultural experience, and a true test of your limits on this unforgettable 28-day expedition.
Inclusions
Itinerary
Upper Dolpo Trek in Nepal: 28 Days Daywise Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
- Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport.
- Transfer to your hotel and rest.
- Trek briefing in the evening.
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
- Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
- Final preparations for the trek.
Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
- Morning flight to Nepalgunj (1 hour).
- Explore Nepalgunj in the evening.
Day 4: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,400m), Trek to Dunai (2,140m)
- Early morning flight to Juphal.
- Trek to Dunai (2-3 hours).
- Overnight in Dunai.
Day 5: Dunai to Chhepka (2,670m)
- Trek through terraced fields and pine forests.
- Pass through small villages.
- Reach Chhepka (6-7 hours).
Day 6: Chhepka to Renje (3,010m)
- Trek through forests and along the Suli Khola.
- Reach Renje (4-5 hours).
Day 7: Renje to Ringmo/Phoksundo Lake (3,610m)
- Trek through forests and ascend to Phoksundo Lake.
- Reach the beautiful turquoise Phoksundo Lake and Ringmo village (6-7 hours).
Day 8: Acclimatization Day at Phoksundo Lake
- Rest day for acclimatization.
- Explore the lake and surrounding areas.
Day 9: Ringmo to Chunemba (3,860m)
- Trek through forests and ascend gradually.
- Reach Chunemba (6-7 hours).
Day 10: Chunemba to Snowfields Camp (4,400m)
- Trek through alpine forests and pastures.
- Reach Snowfields Camp (5-6 hours).
Day 11: Snowfields Camp to Shey Gompa (4,126m) via Kang La Pass (5,160m)
- Ascend to Kang La Pass.
- Descend to Shey Gompa, known as the Crystal Monastery (6-7 hours).
Day 12: Rest and Exploration Day at Shey Gompa
- Rest day for acclimatization.
- Explore Shey Gompa and surrounding areas.
Day 13: Shey Gompa to Namgung (4,430m)
- Cross the Shey La Pass (5,010m).
- Descend to Namgung (6-7 hours).
Day 14: Namgung to Saldang (3,903m)
- Trek through arid landscapes.
- Reach the large village of Saldang (4-5 hours)
Day 15: Saldang to Sibu (4,560m)
- Trek through arid terrain and past small villages.
- Reach Sibu (6-7 hours).
Day 16: Sibu to Jeng La Phedi (4,900m)
- Trek through barren landscapes.
- Reach Jeng La Phedi (5-6 hours).
Day 17: Jeng La Phedi to Tokyu Gaon (4,209m) via Jeng La Pass (5,090m)
- Ascend to Jeng La Pass.
- Descend to Tokyu Gaon (6-7 hours).
Day 18: Tokyu Gaon to Dho Tarap (4,040m)
- Trek through fields and small settlements.
- Reach Dho Tarap, a large and ancient village (4-5 hours).
Day 19: Rest and Exploration Day at Dho Tarap
- Rest day for acclimatization.
- Explore Dho Tarap and its monasteries.
Day 20: Dho Tarap to Tarap Khola (Kamakharka) (3,800m)
- Trek through narrow gorges and river valleys.
- Reach Tarap Khola (6-7 hours).
Day 21: Tarap Khola to Khani Gaon (3,150m)
- Continue trekking through the gorge.
- Reach Khani Gaon (5-6 hours).
Day 22: Khani Gaon to Tarakot (2,537m)
- Trek through fields and villages.
- Reach Tarakot, an ancient fortress town (4-5 hours).
Day 23: Tarakot to Dunai (2,140m)
- Trek through terraced fields and along the river.
- Reach Dunai (5-6 hours).
Day 24: Dunai to Juphal (2,400m)
- Ascend back to Juphal.
- Prepare for the flight the next day (3-4 hours).
Day 25: Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj, then to Kathmandu
- Morning flight to Nepalgunj and then to Kathmandu.
- Transfer to your hotel and rest.
Day 26: Free Day in Kathmandu
- Free day for shopping and relaxation.
- Optional activities like mountain flight or cultural tours.
Day 27: Contingency Day
- Reserved for any delays or additional rest needed during the trek.
Day 28: Departure from Kathmandu
- Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.
