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) Map

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

FAQ

Q1: How challenging is the Upper Dolpo Trek?

A: The Upper Dolpo Trek is considered very challenging due to its remote nature, high altitude (with multiple passes over 5,000m), basic infrastructure, and long duration. Excellent physical fitness, previous high-altitude trekking experience, and strong mental resilience are essential.

Q2: What makes Upper Dolpo unique compared to other treks in Nepal?

A: Upper Dolpo offers a rare glimpse into one of the most remote and culturally preserved regions of Nepal. Its landscape and culture are more Tibetan than Nepali, and it's one of the few places where the pre-Buddhist Bon religion is still practiced. The region's isolation has helped preserve unique cultural practices and ancient monasteries.

Q3: What is the best time to trek in Upper Dolpo?

A: The best seasons are late spring (May to mid-June) and early autumn (mid-September to early October). The monsoon typically doesn't reach Upper Dolpo, but winter treks are extremely challenging due to very cold temperatures and snow-blocked passes.

Q4: How is the accommodation during the trek?

A: Accommodation is primarily camping, especially in the more remote sections. Very basic teahouses are available in some larger villages, but facilities are generally quite rudimentary. Be prepared for simple living conditions throughout the trek.

Q5: Are special permits required for Upper Dolpo?

A: Yes, Upper Dolpo is a restricted area requiring special permits, including the Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, which is more expensive and limited than permits for other areas. Your trekking agency will typically arrange these permits.

Q6: How does Upper Dolpo compare to Lower Dolpo treks?

A: Upper Dolpo treks are generally longer, more remote, and more challenging than Lower Dolpo treks. They venture further into the restricted area, offering even more isolated landscapes and cultural experiences. Upper Dolpo also typically requires more self-sufficiency in terms of supplies and camping.

Q7: What kind of wildlife might be seen on the Upper Dolpo Trek?

A: Upper Dolpo is home to diverse Himalayan wildlife. Trekkers might spot blue sheep, musk deer, and if very lucky, the elusive snow leopard. The region is also rich in bird life, including various species of pheasants and raptors.