Upper Dolpo Trek – 28 Days of Remote Adventure
Introduction
Experience the isolated beauty of Upper Dolpo with ART Nepal Treks & Expedition, one of Nepal’s leading trekking companies. This 28-day adventure takes you through untouched landscapes, Tibetan-influenced villages, and serene lakes like Phoksundo. Trekkers encounter high passes, rugged valleys, and ancient monasteries while witnessing rare Himalayan wildlife. With experienced guides, well-planned logistics, and safe accommodations, this trek offers a perfect balance of adventure, cultural immersion, and natural splendor, giving travelers a once-in-a-lifetime experience far from the usual tourist routes.
Preparation Tips
- Physical Fitness: Train with endurance hikes, cardio, and strength exercises.
- Gear & Clothing: Layered clothes, sturdy boots, sleeping bag for cold nights, trekking poles, and rain protection.
- Acclimatization: Follow a gradual ascent to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
- Mental Readiness: Remote terrain requires flexibility, patience, and positive mindset.
- Travel Insurance: Cover high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
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Trip Duration
28 days/ 27 Nights
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Group Size
1-15 people
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Maximum Altitude
5,360 meters
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Trip Difficulty
Challenging
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Activities
Trekking
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Best Season
Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)
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Trip Start & End
Kathmandu/ Kathmandu
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Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Accomodation
Teahouses / Camping
Highlights
- Remote Wilderness: Explore one of Nepal’s most isolated and least visited regions.
- Stunning Landscapes: Dramatic mountain passes, valleys, and high-altitude deserts.
- Phoksundo Lake: Visit the turquoise jewel of the Dolpo region.
- Traditional Villages: Experience Tibetan-influenced culture and architecture.
- Buddhist Monasteries: Discover ancient monasteries and observe local spiritual practices.
- Wildlife Spotting: Chance to see snow leopards, blue sheep, and Himalayan tahr.
- Scenic Passes: Cross high-altitude passes like Numa La and Baga La with breathtaking views.
Itinerary
Day 01
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Thamel. Settle in and attend a briefing with your guide from ART Nepal Treks & Expedition, discussing the itinerary, trekking permits, and essential preparations. Spend the evening resting or exploring Thamel’s lively streets.
Altitude:
1,400mMeal:
Welcome dinnerAccomodation :
3 Star Hotel in ThamelDay 02
Visit Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). Prepare permits and gear for the trek, and enjoy free time to explore Thamel. This combines cultural exploration with essential logistical preparation.
Altitude:
1,400mMeal:
BreakfastAccomodation :
3 Star Hotel in ThamelDay 03
Take a domestic flight to Nepalgunj, a gateway to Upper Dolpo. Explore local markets, observe town life, and rest before heading to the remote trekking region.
Trip Duration:
1 hourAltitude:
1,400m-150mMeal:
BreakfastAccomodation :
Standard Hotel in NepalgunjDay 04
Fly to Juphal and begin trekking through terraced fields, small villages, and river crossings to reach Dunai, the administrative center of Dolpo. Enjoy your first views of the dramatic Dolpo landscape.
Trip Duration:
(Trek Duration) 2–3 hours, (Flight Duration) 45 minutesAltitude:
2,502m-2,850mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 05
Cross suspension bridges and trek through walnut plantations and valleys to reach Ankhe. Meet local villagers and experience the unique architecture and culture of this remote area.
Trip Duration:
5–6 hoursAltitude:
2,850m-2,896mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 06
Today’s trek takes you along forested riversides with multiple ascents and descents. You will cross streams and enjoy the serenity of Dolpo’s remote wilderness while approaching Sulighat. The changing vegetation—from riverine forests to high-altitude shrubs—marks your gradual ascent into the higher Dolpo region.
Trip Duration:
5–6 hoursAltitude:
2,896m-3,500mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 07
The trek today leads you to the famous Phoksundo Lake, passing through Palam settlement and Ringmo village. Enjoy stunning views of turquoise waters set against dramatic cliffs and distant snow-capped peaks. Ringmo village offers a glimpse into traditional Tibetan-influenced architecture and culture.
Trip Duration:
4–5 hoursAltitude:
3,500m-3,611mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 08
A rest day to allow your body to adjust to higher altitudes. Use this day to explore Ringmo village and visit the nearby monastery. Spend time appreciating the calm waters of Phoksundo Lake and the surrounding natural beauty.
Altitude:
3,611mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 09
Walk around Phoksundo Lake and descend into the valley towards Phoksundo Khola. Crossing meadows and rivers, you will enjoy both scenic landscapes and the local flora and fauna unique to this remote region.
Trip Duration:
4–5 hoursAltitude:
3,611m-3,507mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 10
Ascend through a glacier valley and open pastures to reach Phoksundo Bhanjyang. Today offers panoramic views of nearby peaks, including Kang La Pass. The terrain is rugged, with occasional snow patches at higher altitudes.
Trip Duration:
6–7 hoursAltitude:
3,507m-4,402mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 11
Today is a challenging but rewarding day. Early morning ascent to Kang La Pass provides breathtaking views of surrounding Himalayan peaks. Descend into the valley and reach Shey Gompa, a historic monastery where Bon Po traditions are preserved.
Trip Duration:
5–6 hoursAltitude:
4,402m-5,360mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 12
Rest and acclimatize while exploring Shey Gompa and the surrounding area. Visit local settlements and observe the Bon Po lifestyle, traditional rituals, and unique cultural practices in this remote Himalayan region.
Altitude:
4,500mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 13
Descend through a rocky canyon and then climb Saldang La Pass to reach Namduna Gaun. En route, you may encounter herds of yaks and blue sheep, and observe the natural and cultural elements of high-altitude Dolpo villages.
Trip Duration:
6–7 hoursAltitude:
4,500m-4,800mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 14
Begin with a climb to Saldang La Pass, enjoying expansive Himalayan views. The descent leads to Saldang, the largest village in lower Dolpo, where you can explore traditional stone houses and interact with local villagers. The change in altitude also brings more arid landscapes compared to earlier alpine meadows.
Trip Duration:
4–5 hoursAltitude:
4,800m-5,200mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 15
Trek through the Tarap Valley, crossing the Panzang River and passing through grazing lands. Arrive at Yangze Gompa, an ancient Bon Po monastery, where monks maintain traditional rituals. The valley offers dramatic views of surrounding peaks and high-altitude landscapes.
Trip Duration:
4–5 hoursAltitude:
3,903m-4,960mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 16
Today, choose between two trekking routes to Sibu, passing Namdo monastery and various alpine terrains. The journey offers panoramic views of mountains, glaciers, and high-altitude pastures, providing opportunities to spot wildlife like blue sheep.
Trip Duration:
6–7 hoursAltitude:
4,960m-4,560mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 17
Follow the Nam Khong Khola and ascend to grazing areas below Jeng La Pass. This section is challenging due to rocky terrain but rewards trekkers with wide vistas of Tarap Valley and distant Himalayan peaks.
Trip Duration:
5–6 hoursAltitude:
4,560m-4,900mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 18
Ascend Jeng La Pass early for views of Mount Dhaulagiri, then descend into Tarap Valley to Tokyu Gaon. The descent provides a dramatic contrast to previous alpine landscapes and introduces the unique cultural features of lower Dolpo settlements.
Trip Duration:
5–6 hoursAltitude:
4,900m-4,209mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 19
Descend through marshy plains and rocky paths to Dho Tarap, a village known for its remote culture and traditional Bon Po practices. Take time to interact with locals and observe village life at high altitude.
Trip Duration:
4–5 hoursAltitude:
4,209m-4,040mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 20
Rest day to recover from previous ascents. Explore Dho Tarap’s unique religious practices, visit small monasteries, and enjoy walking around the village to observe daily life in a remote Himalayan settlement.
Altitude:
4,040mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 21
Descend through juniper and wild rose plants along the Tarap River. Watch herds of blue sheep and enjoy the valley’s natural beauty as you approach Tarap Khola, marking a gentle descent from the high Dolpo plateau.
Trip Duration:
6–7 hoursAltitude:
4,040m-3,800mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 22
Trek through a narrow ravine along the Tarap River. Cross small creeks and walk through terraced farmlands, gradually descending into the more settled lower Dolpo region, observing agricultural life and local settlements.
Trip Duration:
4–5 hoursAltitude:
3,800m-3,150mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 23
Hike through Lalberi village and dense woodland before reaching Tarakot. Visit Sandul Gompa and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Dolpo hills. The region becomes warmer and greener as you descend.
Trip Duration:
4–5 hoursAltitude:
3,150m-2,537mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 24
Trek to Juphal and board a flight to Nepalgunj. After landing, explore local markets or relax at your hotel.
Trip Duration:
6–7 hoursAltitude:
2,537m-2,850mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tented CampDay 25
Trek to Juphal and board a flight to Nepalgunj. After landing, explore local markets or relax at your hotel.
Trip Duration:
45 minutesAltitude:
2,850m-150mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Standard Hotel in NepalgunjDay 26
Fly back to Kathmandu. Spend the rest of the day relaxing or doing last-minute shopping and sightseeing in the capital city.
Trip Duration:
1 hourAltitude:
150m-1,400mMeal:
BreakfastAccomodation :
3 Stars Hotel in ThamelDay 27
Explore remaining cultural sites in Kathmandu or shop for souvenirs in Thamel. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your guide and fellow trekkers.
Altitude:
1400mMeal:
Breakfast, Farewell DinnerAccomodation :
3 Stars Hotel in ThamelDay 28
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure, concluding your unforgettable Upper Dolpo adventure.
Meal:
BreakfastRoute Map
What's Included
- Pickup and drop from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
- 2 nights’ stay in a 3-star hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu.
- 2 breakfasts in Kathmandu.
- All required permits and government taxes for trekking.
- Domestic flights during the trek (as listed in itinerary).
- Accommodation throughout the trek, including teahouses in lower regions and camping at higher elevations.
- Full board meals during trekking (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, plus tea/coffee).
- Experienced guide with salary, insurance, and food/accommodation covered.
- First aid kit for emergencies.
- Public transportation where needed during the trip.
What's Excluded
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs or extra snacks.
- Personal trekking gear not listed in the packing list.
- Drinks and mineral water during the trek.
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking.
- Tips for guides, porters, and other staff (usually given at the end of the trek).
Porters:
A porter can carry up to 25 kg of luggage, making trekking easier, especially at high altitudes. For convenience, it is recommended to hire at least one porter for every two trekkers.($22 per porter per day)
Optional Add-Ons:
- Sightseeing tours in Kathmandu.
- Porter services.
- Additional domestic flights.
- Helicopter services for remote evacuation or sightseeing.
- Private transportation as needed.
Essential Info
Best Season to Trek
The Upper Dolpo Trek is best undertaken during:
- Spring (March to May): Enjoy blooming flowers, moderate temperatures, and mostly clear trails.
- Autumn (September to November): Experience crisp air, stable weather, and clear mountain views.
During these months, trekking conditions are ideal with manageable temperatures and good visibility of the Himalayas. Avoid monsoon months (June-August) due to heavy rainfall and slippery trails, and winter months (December-February) due to extreme cold.
Food Availability
While trekking, you will have access to basic but nourishing meals:
- Breakfast: Eggs, bread, porridge, and tea or coffee.
- Lunch: Rice, lentils (dal), noodles, and mixed vegetables.
- Dinner: Curries, rice, pasta, and local Nepali dishes.
- Snacks: Available at teahouses or small shops, including fruits, biscuits, and energy bars.
Meals are simple but sufficient to maintain energy for trekking. In higher altitude areas, food options may be limited, so carrying extra snacks is recommended.
Accommodation
Accommodation during the trek changes based on altitude:
- Lower Regions: Basic teahouses with shared bathrooms and simple beds.
- Higher Altitudes: Camping is necessary. Tents, sleeping bags, and dining equipment are provided by ART Nepal Treks & Expedition.
- Kathmandu & Nepalgunj: Comfortable 3-star hotels with modern amenities, including private bathrooms and hot showers.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for high-altitude trekking. Ensure your policy includes:
- Coverage for trekking above 4,000 meters.
- Medical emergencies and hospital treatment.
- Emergency evacuation by helicopter or road.
- Coverage for lost or damaged luggage.
Comprehensive travel insurance ensures peace of mind and safety throughout the trek.
Altitude Sickness
Trekkers may experience altitude sickness due to low oxygen at high elevations. Common symptoms include:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
Prevention Tips:
- Ascend gradually to allow your body to adapt.
- Take rest/acclimatization days as planned in the itinerary.
- Stay hydrated and eat regularly.
- Carry prescribed medication for altitude sickness.
If symptoms worsen, descend immediately and seek medical attention. Guides with ART Nepal Treks & Expedition are trained to recognize and manage altitude sickness emergencies.
Guide and Safety Measures
Guide:
A professional local guide is provided for the entire trek. Their responsibilities include:
- Navigation and route management.
- Cultural explanations and interaction with local communities.
- Ensuring safety and adherence to trekking protocols.
- Handling all logistics, including food, accommodation, and emergency situations.
Safety Measures:
- Regular health check-ins during the trek.
- Monitoring for signs of altitude sickness.
- Strict safety protocols for river crossings, high passes, and wildlife encounters.
- Emergency evacuation plans in case of illness or injury.
Booking Procedure
Booking your Upper Dolpo Trek with ART Nepal Treks & Expedition is simple:
- Contact: Reach out to us for availability and detailed trek information.
- Deposit: Pay a deposit to secure your spot.
- Final Payment: Complete the remaining balance before the trek begins.
- Documentation: Provide passport copies, visa details, and travel insurance information.
Once confirmed, our team will assist with all preparations, including permits, domestic flights, and porter arrangements.
Equipment List
- Quick-dry t-shirts and long-sleeve shirts
- Trekking pants and shorts
- Thermal underwear for cold nights
- Lightweight fleece or wool layer
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Sleeping bag rated for -15°C to -20°C
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Backpack (40–50L) with rain cover
- Water bottles or hydration system
- Personal first aid kit
- Map, compass, or GPS device
- Insulated down jacket
- Warm gloves and hat
- Scarf or neck gaiter
- Wool or synthetic socks (extra pairs)
- Trekking boots (waterproof, broken-in)
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Wet wipes and biodegradable soap
- Toothbrush, toothpaste
- Hand sanitizer
- Personal medications
- Emergency whistle
- Insect repellent
- Camera and accessories
- Mobile phone with power bank
- Plug adapter for Nepal (Type C, D, M)
- Solar charger (optional)