Upper Dolpo Trek - 27 days

Get yourself immersed in the 1st warm morning in the country of the Himalayas. Have a delightful buffet breakfast at the hotel, we have a long meaningful excursion day ahead. We’ll be covering 7 UNESCO World Heritage sites at Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan. The first cultural insight we head up to is the Kathmandu Durbar Square (just a few minutes away from the Thamel), exploring the museums, courtyards, fascinating paintings, and the home of the living goddess- Kumari Ghar, we’ll move towards Swoyambunath also called as Monkey Temple. 

After paying these 2 cultural sites we’ll go to the Pashupatinath Temple and Baudhanath Stupa (if it wasn’t covered yesterday). Then, we will drive to the Bhaktapur Durbar Square and stroll around the Living Museum city also paying a visit to the Changunarayan Temple. Having a short field trip here, we’ll head toward Patan Durbar Square and end our day visit by returning to our office. In total, we will cover 7 UNSECO sites in a day.

Again, we will have a short meeting regarding the Upper Dolpo Trek and discuss about packing list. Tick off all the lists and if anything gets missed then, we will buy the essential gear, types of equipment, and some quick snacks for the trip. Or, you can even rent some of them at a lower price here in Thamel.

Some of the essentials will be provided by us, please go through our Cost Details section. 

Today, the exhilarating journey to the Dolpo region has finally begun. Starting our morning with a delightful breakfast, have a concise walk around Thamel. We will have our flight towards Neplajung district near Nepal- India in the daytime or morning (depending on the scheduled date). After 45 minutes to an hour of flight, we’ll reach Neplajung, in the western part of the country. 

Here, we can visit the Bardia National Park (which is just nearby at the hotel we will be staying), or even pay a visit to the famous Bageshwori Temple. Do you know that this vibrant settlement also is a central hub of tourism famous for street shops, and local stores selling special souvenirs of thangka paintings, wood carvings, and many more? Make the best out of this meandering around this valley. 

Have a good sound rest at the hotel and stretch your legs as tomorrow onwards our walking adventure begins. 

After having a delightful breakfast, we have another 25-minute flight towards Juphal. This small aircraft shows a gradual transition of lovely hills, dry landscapes, snowy peaks shining in white color, and tiny valleys. It offers a breathtaking vista of panoramic natural diversity just within half an hour of flight demonstrating a unique geography.

Upon reaching the Juphal, we carry our trekking bags for our first hike and navigate toward Dunai winding through the charming settlements where locals are engaging in the harvesting crops. The yaks, buffalos, and cows graze on the terraced fields and also pass by the dense section providing a serenity of wildlife diversity and blooming rhododendrons, along the Thulo Bheri River side by side. The hike is quite easy today having a well-maintained path.

Entering the village of Dunai- the headquarters of the Dolpo district, we can see the confluence of 2 flowing rivers such as Thuli Bheri and Dunai River. We will search for a perfectly flat area to place our camping tent on and spend overnight here enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Starting our morning with a sunrise view over the Dhaulagiri Range-7th world’s highest peak, we make our step towards the valley of Thulo Bheri on our western side which leads us to Phoksundo River Valley. Walking by the terraced fields decorated by potato, mustard, millet, and grains we’ll enter the Hanke village. 

Ascending with the mesmerizing view of Kangmara Peak, we reach the gateway to Shey Phoksundo National Park. Passing by the villages of Parela, and Rahagaon we will enter our destination for today, Ankhe. These 3 settlements mentioned above are Nepalese words that depict Eyelashes, Eyebrows, and sparkling eyes. So, one can imagine how captivating these valleys that are named after human features refer to the beauty that nature holds for every visitor. 

Settling down our camp here, we’ll relish in the tranquility of the Ankha village enjoying a little campfire and delicious meals prepared by the guide.

Have a fulfilling breakfast, as we have a strenuous walk ahead with several steep ups and downs, however, do not worry! Along the way, there are several rivulets to refresh us, and a glimpse of Kanguru Peak and Dhaulagiri makes us tiring hike beautiful. 

Walking past the dense forests, and cascading rivers we’ll walk downhill which takes us toward the Silughar checkpoint. After getting our trekking permits checked here, we’ll enter the Shey Phoksundo National Park, we’ll navigate to the ridge of Sulighat River where we will set up our camping tent and stay overnight. 

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Starting our journey, following the valley basin to the confluence of Pungmo River and Pungmo River, we’ll move toward the western side of the river of Pungmo. From where our trail of forest starts, walk past the village of Palam and ascend towards the uphill point that offers a spectacular vista of Phoksundo Lake from far away. On top of that the view of the highest waterfall of Phoksundo Jharana. 

Marching our pathway downhill from here, we’ll reach the section of upper Phoksundo Khola, from where we enter the tiny settlement of Ringmo. In this valley, we can witness mani walls, chortens, and small stones engraved with mantras surrounded by Tibetan prayer flags. Keeping on with our hike, we arrive at the bank of Shey Phoksundo Lake where we’ll set our camp of course, and stay overnight here enjoying the sparkling lake of Phoksundo.

This day is set for our first acclimatization to gradually adapt to the rising high altitude. However, it doesn’t mean resting all day long, we have tailored it as an excursion day to one of the meaningful spots of the Dolpo region. Having our delicious breakfast prepared by the cook at the tent, we make our way towards Ringmo village and wander around the beauty of Phoksundo Lake returning from this old traditional settlement.

Ringmo village is one of the oldest traditional villages having only a maximum of 200 residents known for its bon monastery. Here, we can witness Tibetan people wearing their traditional dress in the maroon-burgundy color with beads on their hands meditating with a prayer 1 by 1. Not only that, but here the only means of livelihood for these locals is animal husbandry and farming. Savoring the yak cheese made out of yaks traditionally interacting with them seeing the smiley faces make our stay here at the ridge of the lake totally worth it. We will also pay a visit to the Thasung Tsholing Gompa, which is 900 years old.

Retracing our steps toward the Phoksundo Lake, we will stroll around the bank of this shining green exploring every bit of it. Making our way to our tented camp we’ll savor the delicious dinner and stay overnight here again witnessing the dark sky filled with stars that seem like an unearthly nature.

Today, starting our hike following the western shore of the lake, overlooking the sparkling green-blue turquoise of Phoksundo Lake makes our hike truly one of the mesmerizing captivating beauty of the Dolpo Trek. Continuing our way, the path showing the gradual transition of rocky terrain to lovely green under the hues of crystal clear blue sky shows us the diversity of the Himalayas that seem like art straight out of paintings.

Walking across the charming verdant valley, we’ll walk downhill to the bank of Shey Phoksundo Khola. Wandering around this lively river we’ll ascend to the Sallaghari and set up our tent finding a safe yet beautiful point we will stay here tonight. 

Continuing our trek, we will begin our easy hike crossing the glacial valleys and a few streams. As the hours pass by, the trail gets steeper and we’ll cross the perpendicular ridge and huge rock formation that takes us toward the Tuk Kyasa River. Making our way across the stream barefoot and feeling the coolness on our tiring legs, we can see the spectacular view of Kang La Pass showing that we are just 1 step ahead crossing this enchanting pass. 

Reaching here at Phoksundo Bhanjyang, we will set up our tent enjoying the windy cool air and feeling the tranquility of the Himalayas. 

Get yourself boosted up with energy as the thrilling adventure toward the high pass of Kang La begins today. Commencing our trail with a steep ascend, following the graveled trailhead for a straight 3 hours which might sound a bit challenging. However, reaching the altitude of 4350 meters where Kang La Pass stands gracefully, rewards us with the panoramic views of a wide valley, with a breathtaking glimpse of the Annapurna Range rising in the blue sky. Spend some time, cherishing this moment that lives within you forever.

After indulging this time at the top, we descend towards the leading to the banks of several water streams and rivers. Enjoying the serenity the route starts opening up with terraced fields where yaks, and Himalayan blue sheep named Chyangra in the Nepalese term, we will finally reach the village of Shey Gompa after a long strenuous yet rewarding hike of 6 hours.

Arriving here at Shey Gompa, we can witness the red shrines, small mani walls, chortens, and monasteries (gompa) dominated by the twinking rivers of Yeju Nala and Kangju Nala. Spend the evening witnessing the surrounding views at nighttime adorned by the stars, greenery, and diverse landscapes. 

Another fascinating acclimatization excursion is set here at the heart of the Dolpo region, Shey Gompa. Wandering around we can see the Tibetan locals wearing traditional attire showing their unchanged culture. Starting our morning with the smiles of children with red dry cheeks, we will head toward the monastery that was built in the year 1655, the Shey Gompa flanged by the small chortens, Mani walls, colorful Tibetan prayer flags, thangka paintings depicting the story of the past of this settlement. Do not miss reading out these small details that surely transports us to the 90’s era.

Do you know that this monastery is famous for the statues of Padmasambhava along with the 2 students of Buddha; Sariputra and Maudgalyayana? Many people across the globe come here to the upper Dolpo section, just to get a glance at it or we can say worship it. It is said that these statues teach us the value of peace and serenity, we can see monks doing a meditation here showing how rich this monastery value this gompa holds. 

On the eastern side of the gompa, the huge peak dominating the sky called “Crystal Mountain” is renowned as the young brother of Mt. Kailash by Tibetans, Indians, and locals. It is also called Ribo Drugta by the monks, soaking up in this once-in-a-lifetime view, we retrace our step back to Shey Gompa village. Wandering around this with a cultural retreat we spend our overnight here.

Leaving Shey Gompa village, we move towards Namduna Gaun our destination today navigating through the forests of oak and pine that lead us toward a slate gorge on he shade of grey. Continuing our hike following the curved trail, we will reach the summit of (top point) of Saldang La Pass (5100 meters). From this vantage point, the valley of Mustang and the Tibetan plateau demonstrate the geographical diversity that makes our sweat of reaching to the one hundred percent worth it.

Walking downhill, we meet the terraced field point where we can witness the yaks and blue sheep grazing beautifully showing that we have finally reached the edge point of Namduna Gaun. From here, we’ll also have a cultural excursion toward the Namduna Gompa decorated by the red shrine, mani walls, and colorful flags depicting the religious serenity within this settlement.

Today, we have another easy and exciting trail to begin with. Commencing our hike with a sloppy ridge and some rock and steep terrains, we will follow the flowing river of Namga Khola river side by side. Enjoying the sound of nature, after 4 hours of walking we can finally see a glimpse of Saldang village from far away.

Residing at the Tibetan plateau above Nam Khong Nala River, it is the largest village of the inner Dolpo region adorned by green hills and spectacular landscape. Relish this chance to have a hearty interaction with locals as they have interesting stories to share and heart-wrenching hospitality to offer. Overnight stay at Saldang village.

An enchanting hike to the ancient and oldest monastery- Yangtsher Gompa also known as Yangze Gompa of this region. Making our way to Nagon Khola River side by side, we pass by the settlements of Marang and Ki villages and witness the gradual transition of barren landscape to a vibrant tone. 

Reaching Yangze Gompa, recognized as a 1000-year-old where many visitors come around to get an in-depth knowledge of Bon-tradition. Here, we can see monks meditating in peace with the Tibetan beads showing a rich significance. Retracing our step we get back to Saldang where we’ll stay overnight again.

Note: If you feel tired then, you can rest at the tent camp without ascending for 4 hours which will help to save your energy and relax the muscles.

Leaving Saldang village, we make our way passing by several mani walls, shrines, chortens, and terraced fields witnessing yaks grazing on the field. Continuing the hike, we will reach Chaiba monastery adorned with tiny Tibetan stones engraved in the language of Tibetan mantra that takes us to Namdo village. 

Here, we can see a thin settlement compared to others with only a maximum of 60 houses. Ascending a bit, we will pay a visit to the Namdo monastery, wandering around this ancient gompa and getting a glimpse of ancient sculptures, paintings, and mani walls. On the right side, we can see the river bank, following this flowing river for one and a half hours, we will finally reach the camp of Sibu.

Today, we start our hike navigating through the easy trail along the Nam Khong Khola by our side and side. Walking with the river's flowing sound, we’ll enter the forested area section of blooming wildflowers of juniper and pine. Passing by the hillside field with the yaks herding, the strenuous section comes when we ascend from Jenga La's base. Elevating up from this difficult section, we will find a safe place to set our camp on and spend our enchanting night watching the serene milieu surrounding us.

Get your energy high and boots ready! Another fascinating day awaits us as we’ll be heading to cross Jeng La Pass residing highly at an elevation of 4900 meters. Starting our hike with a rocky steep trail through several ascends and descends after 2 hours, we will reach the top of the pass of Jeng La where the breathtaking vista of Dhaulagiri massif can be seen rising stunningly dominated by the glacier, valley.

Create one of the best memories and get some snaps. Relish this moment before we leave for Tokyu Gaon, our destination for today before it gets windy. Navigating the rocky section, we will reach the village of Tokyu by passing the paradise beauty of Tarap Valley. 

Starting our morning with a delicious breakfast, we proceed forward descending toward Tarap Valley from where we can see the wide opening of the greenery. Make your cameras ready as we will catch a glimpse of blue sheep herding on the terraced field. Not only that, mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags flagging on the greenery surroundings make our trail truly incredible.

Walking further for approximately 4 hours, we can see red shrines decorating the monasteries, small shortness, and black stones engraved in Tibetan mantras reflecting the bon community. From here the village of Dho Tarap starts to open up, indulging the calmness of this large settlement we will stay here overnight tenting a camp.

This day is set for another excursion/ acclimatization day here at Dho Tarap village. Adorned with mani stones, Buddhist prayer walls, and small monasteries, here we can see the Tibetans following the Bon and Chaiba religious faith highly influenced by old practiced Tibet locals. On top of that, the only means of livelihood are animal husbandry and harvesting, we can see them grazing Himalayan yaks and blue sheep (Chyangra) along with engaging wood carvings, painting thangkas, making wools making our wandering truly commendable.

One of the unique highlights of strolling around this village is the woman wearing a necklace made out of deer teeth and their way of celebrating cultures in the form of dance and singing songs. Rest of the day we can pay a visit to several gompas such as Drakmar Dewa Monastery, Dhoro Monastery, Mekhyim Monastery, and Ribo Bompa Monastery or just stroll around this village exploring and unveiling its rich culture and interact with the locals residing here. 

Leaving Dho Tarap behind, we will march forward through the forested area once again such as pine and juniper. Passing through Tarap Chu and Lang Khola, we can witness the fields such as blue sheep and yaks along the way, we will reach our destination for today, Tarap Khola. From here we will ascend to the Kamakharka where we set our camp on the safe side.

Today, we have a fascinating voyage to commence. Starting our hike following the river along the way, we will reach the gorge of Tarap Khola. Please pay attention while traversing through as the path gets steeper and narrower, following the stone staircases made by the locals, we will reach the Khani Gaon. Wandering around this valley, we will set our tent at a stunning place where we can enjoy the chill night beneath the twinkling stars.

Leaving Khanigaon behind, we march towards a dense forest of pine and bamboo through Lalberi village- where magar and gurung community resides. Walking along the river side by side we will reach Tarakot by visiting the Sandul Gompa which sits at the confluence of Tarap Chu and Barbung Khola. Upon reaching Tarakot, we will set our camp on the river side of Tarap Chu where we can savor the tranquility of the flowing river. 

Continuing our Upper Dolpo Trekking, we walk along the water streams and forests of pine, with the Thuli Bheri River by our side. Crossing a tiny bridge over the rivulet, we will reach the villages of Lawan, Byas Gadi, and Lochakhola Gaon. Ascending through a well-maintained trail, we will arrive in Dunai.

In between we will have a lunch break enjoying the cultivated farm where Himalayan wildlife are grazing stunningly. Upon reaching Dunai, our complete circuit of Dolpo will come to an end. Enjoy this achievement with fellow team members having some of the local foods and wines at the camp.

Today, the hike is short, easy yet rewarding, passing by several villages of Dhupichaur, Rupgad, Motipur, and Kalagaoda we will reach Juphal in the daytime. Throughout the trail, the Bheri River will accompany us making our last hike in this region truly memorable. 

Leaving the Dolpo region, we will head back to Kathmandu via Juphal to Nepalgunj. Arriving at the hotel that we stayed before, we will get some rest. In the evening time, we'll have a trip completion certificate distribution with a cultural program at a Nepalese traditional restaurant.

Let us know your time and date of leaving for your home country, one of the DHT airport representatives will drop you at TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport) at the scheduled time.