Upper Dolpo Trek

Overview

Upper Dolpo Trek is a challenging and rewarding trekking experience in one of the most isolated parts of Nepal. It is a remote and adventurous trekking route in the far-western Himalayas of Nepal which remains a hidden gem isolated from the rest of the country by its rugged terrain. Located in the trans-Himalayan region, Upper Dolpo is a high-altitude desert that is culturally linked to Tibet. The region is known for its untouched landscapes, ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, and stunning views of snow-capped mountains. If you’re looking for a remote adventure off the beaten path, the Upper Dolpo Trek offers a journey into Nepal’s wild and mystical side. Therefore, the Upper Dolpo trek is an ideal trekking program for seasoned adventurers looking for solitude, rugged nature, and a deep cultural experience.

Upper Dolpo’s rugged beauty combined with its unique cultural heritage makes it one of the most unforgettable trekking destinations in Nepal. Away from modern infrastructure, Upper Dolpo offers a rare chance to experience the untouched beauty of Nepal’s wilderness and ancient traditions. Though the Upper Dolpo Trek is a long and challenging journey, the rewards are plentiful.

Varying from the breathtaking Shey Phoksundo Lake to encounters with the locals who still live a semi-nomadic lifestyle, we can experience it all within a single trip. We will traverse across diverse landscapes, from green valleys and dense forests to barren hills and alpine deserts. En route, we will also cross high passes that offer panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri range and other towering peaks. Besides natural bliss, the trek also provides deep cultural immersion. We can experience the rural lifestyle as well as visit ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and interact with the locals who still follow age-old traditions.

One of the most memorable moments of the trek is reaching Shey Phoksundo Lake which is popular for its brilliant turquoise color and dramatic backdrop. The lake is surrounded by sacred cliffs and is home to rare wildlife. Another highlight is visiting the Shey Gompa, a monastery dating back over 800 years, where Tibetan Buddhism is still practiced in its most authentic form.

The Upper Dolpo Trek itinerary usually spans between 24 to 30 days, depending on the route, the pace of the trekker, and weather conditions. The journey towards Upper Dolpo usually begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj which is followed by a short flight to Juphal, the starting point of the trek. The initial days of our Upper Dolpo Itinerary also covers the places within Lower Dolpo and take you through lush forests and terraced fields, passing charming villages such as Dunai and Chhepka. After several days of trekking, you’ll reach Ringmo Village near Shey Phoksundo Lake. This section of the trek offers the first glimpse of Dolpo’s high desert landscape, with dramatic cliffs surrounding the lake.

The trek continues past Shey Phoksundo, climbing to higher altitudes through rugged terrain and crossing the Nangdala Pass (5,350 meters). This is where we begin to breath in the air of Upper Dolpo, an isolated land with barely any modern influence. You will visit Shey Gompa, an ancient Tibetan Buddhist monastery that has been a center of pilgrimage for over 800 years. The spiritual significance of Shey Gompa and the breathtaking scenery around it make this one of the trek’s most memorable moments.

After spending time exploring Upper Dolpo’s high-altitude deserts, the trail takes you over Jeng La Pass (5,110 meters), with spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri range. As you descend, the landscape gradually changes, passing through remote villages like Dho Tarap and Tichurong, before reaching Juphal once again for your flight back to Kathmandu. However, the program can be tailor-made according to the specifications and requirements of a trekker with Nepal Mountain Guide.

Being one of the restricted areas of Nepal, a trekker will require the Restricted Area Permit for Upper Dolpo Trekking. Since Upper Dolpo is a restricted area, trekkers must be a part of an organized group with a licensed guide for this trek. Whereas, trekking Upper Dolpo without an agency is strictly prohibited and it is not allowed to trek solo in this region for safety purposes and other factors. The Restricted Area Permit is required to trek to Upper Dolpo to preserve the region’s culture and control access to this fragile ecosystem.

In the same way, the trails bounded within the Upper Dolpo Trek itinerary dwell within the Shey Phoksundo National Park. Therefore, we will also need the Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit for Upper Dolpo Trekking. It is one of the largest and most beautiful national parks in Nepal which abodes the most diverse wildlife, including endangered species like the snow leopard, musk deer, and Himalayan wolves. Shey Phoksundo National Park is rich in both cultural and natural heritage and preserves the delicate balance between the Dolpo region’s environment along the nomadic way of life practiced by the local communities. At Nepal Mountain Guide, we will handle all necessary paperwork and issue both of the permits required for Upper Dolpo Trek ensuring a remarkable trekking experience. Similarly, our highly experienced guide and crew will guarantee a successful trip to Upper Dolpo without a doubt.

Ready for an unforgettable adventure into Nepal’s remote wilderness? Contact Nepal Mountain Guide to book your Upper Dolpo Trek and experience the untouched beauty and rich culture of one of Nepal’s hidden treasures.

Itinerary