Home > Destination > Nepal > Mustang & Dolpo Area > Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo Trek

25 Days

Trip Highlights

  • Camping experience with the different landscapes, hidden treasures
  • Visit Buddhist holy sites, Crystal Mountain unique Buddhist culture
  • Pass over 5000 meters of extraordinary mountain scenery
  • Explore the diverse flora and fauna in She Phoksundo

The Dolpo region is familiar with the Tibetan Plateau, but much more remains to be explored. It retains its natural beauty, although the area is less frequented by waves of modernization. However, making you an essential destination for treks that appreciate the value of serenity.

The Upper Dolpo trek is a restricted area opened for tourism only in 1989. This is the She Phoksundo National Park and the Upper Dolpo region is an uncharted land influenced by Tibetan culture. The trail leaves Juphal small airstrip and passes through settlements. Forest scenery and high snow-capped mountains lead to the deep Shey Phoksundo Lake at 3600 meters above sea level. Meanwhile, the Kang-La Pass connects Phoksundo Valley and Shey Gompa. Kang-La Pass (5,360m/17,581ft) is the highest point of the trek, where you can see beautiful mountains and landscapes. The Upper Dolpo trek includes a visit to Shey Gompa along with an exploration of Shey-Phoksundo Lake. And Gompa Crystal Hill with its serenity offers a retreat and personal charm. Therefore despite the scenic beauty and breathtaking views, this trail brings you the hidden secrets of the hidden Saldang and Yangtser Gumpa, Upper Dolpo. Hence, the journey takes you to the beautiful retreat of the Upper Dolpo region.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at Kathmandu (1,350m) and transfer to Hotel.
Day 2: Fly to Nepalgunj (150m) from Kathmandu
Day 3: Fly to Juphal (2,480m) from Nepalgunj and Trek to Dunai (2,160m)
Day 4: Trek to Chhepka (2,140m), from Dunai
Day 5: Trek to Chunuwar (2,130m), from Chhepka
Day 6: Trek to Phoksundo Lake (3,611m) from Chunuwar
Day 7: Acclimatization and relaxation at Phoksundo Lake
Day 8: Trek to Phoksundo Khola (3,750m), from Phoksundo Lake
Day 9: Trek to Bhanjyang (4,717m), from Phoksundo Khola
Day 10: Shey Gompa (4,500m) from Bhanjyang via Kang-La Pass (5,360m)
Day 11: Accommodate and relax at Shey Gompa
Day 12: Namduna Gaun (4,800m), via Saldang La (5,200m)
Day 13: Trek to Saldang (3,620m) from Namduna Gaun
Day 14: Trek to Yangje Gompa (4,960m) from Saldang
Day 15: Trek to Sibu (4,560m), from Yangje Gompa
Day 16: Trek to Jeng-La Phedi (4,900m), from Sibu
Day 17: Tokyu Gaon (4209m), from Jeng-La Phedi via Jeng La Pass (5,090m)
Day 18: Trek to Dhotarap (4,040m), from Tokyu Gaon
Day 19: Trek to Tarap Khola (Kamakharaka) (3,800m), from Dhotarap
Day 20: Trek to Khanigaon (3,150m), from Tarap Khola
Day 21: Trek to Tarakot (2,537m), from Khanigaon
Day 22: Trek to Dunai (2,140m), from Tarakot
Day 23: Trek to Juphal (2,475m), from Dunai
Day 24: Fly to Nepalgunj to Kathmandu from Juphal and transfer to Hotel.
Day 25: Drop at the airport for the final departure.

All Inclusive cost
Join our trek Contact us to set up an itinerary as per your preference.

Group Size  Price per person
 Min 2 – Max 12  US$ 4899

Customization Option

If this itinerary does not suit your need or you want to customize it, tell us about your travel needs, there is no fixed departure date, itinerary. Being a local trekking agency in Nepal we can arrange your trip according to any date and time, please Send Us A Message and we will customize it according to your itinerary.

Essential Information
Difficulty

Upper Dolpo Trek is a challenging trek reaching up to a maximum elevation of (5,360m) at Kang-La Pass and a maximum overnight elevation of (5,200m) at Saldang La. This four-week trek includes crossing multiple high passes above 5000m and is a fully camping-based trek. Physically challenging due to the higher elevation, involves daily trekking of approximately 6–8 hours. Unlike other famous trekking regions of Nepal, Dolpo is still considered off the beaten so a basic sense of adventure is required on this trek. Previous experience of trekking is not required but you need to be fit and comfortable walking.

Previous Experience

No previous experience of trekking is required but you should be moderately fit and must enjoy walking and adaptable to high altitude conditions. Having a previous experience is definitely beneficial but it is not mandatory to participate in this trip. All travelers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. We strongly advise you to prepare yourself for the trip at least 3 months prior to your trip date by doing regular exercises, going on hiking, running, or gym. The fitter you are, the more enjoyable you will find the experience of trekking.

Best Season

Upper Dolpo trekking is best in monsoon and spring season. Autumn season also suitable for trekking but winter is not recommended time for trek.

Accommodation
Hotel: 2 Nights, Camping: 22 Nights

On Kathmandu:
In Kathmandu, you will stay at Vajra Hotel in Kathmandu. Situated at the foot, of the Great Swayambhunath Stupa. The most peaceful Vajra Hotel in the Kathmandu valley, the hotel also boasts of close Swayambhunath beautiful jungle where you can relax and enjoy the greenery. Breakfast will be provided in the hotel and your accommodation will be on twin sharing basis.
Trekking: Camping:
Your accommodation during the trekking period will be fully tented camping. A tent will be provided for every 2 travellers with a foam mattress. If in case of a single by default, we will arrange a single tent for you at no additional cost. There will also be a kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table, chairs and more for your comfort.

All meals are included during the trekking period

We will provide three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek. Since this is a full camping trek, our kitchen crew will serve freshly prepared meals during the trek. We consider hearty and delicious meals as a key component to the overall success of our trip. i.e. you can and is encouraged to bring along comfort food which you enjoy eating – chocolates, power bars, dry fruits, candies, other snacks etc.

Drinking Water:

We provide boiled water for drinking on all our treks. During meals, you can let the staff fill your bottle with hot water. We strongly discourage the use of single-use plastic bottles such as mineral water on all our trips. Carrying a hot water bottle is highly recommended.

Typical Day On Trek:

Daily wake up calls will be between 6.00 am to 7.00 am while on the trek. The wake-up time and breakfast time will be decided the night before during the briefing time. The time table for each day will entirely depend on your walking duration for that particular day. Tea will be served at your tent as a wake-up call. After a hearty breakfast, we set off on the day’s walk. Before breakfast, you are required to pack your duffel bag as it will be loaded by the porter while you are having your breakfast. After walk, we stop for lunch mid-day. The afternoon’s walk is generally shorter and we usually arrive at our destination in time for afternoon tea.

Daypack for The Trek

You will only carry your day pack carrying the essential items (Water, Cameras, Extra Fleece, Rain jacket, Sunscreen, Snacks, Valuable Items etc.) that you may need during the walk. The porter will carry the rest of your gear. We provide 1 porter for every 2 participants. Similarly, during the trek, there will be 1 support guide for every 4 trekkers, who will be happy to assist you during the hiking if needed.

Group Size:

Our emphasis is always on maintaining the small group so that it will be easy to coordinate and cooperate with each other. Our group size is small and we only take up to 12 pax in one group. The size of the group varies, minimum no of persons required to operate the trip is 2 and the maximum is 12 people.

Can I Trek Alone?

Upper Dolpo Trek falls under a controlled area as per the Government of Nepal. The region is categorised as a restricted area. To trek in this region, you need to be in a group of at least 2 accompanied by a licensed guide. So solo trekking for individual trekkers is prohibited in Upper Dolpo Trek.

Safety On The Trek

Safety is always a priority when traveling with AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions. Our trek itineraries are designed with every aspect in mind, allowing proper adaptability, rest days and walking hours. On all our high altitude treks, we send a comprehensive medical kit. Furthermore, we also have a high staff to customer ratio on all our treks. Read more, Safety & Security

Our Approach to Treks

Our route to trek follows a careful approach with ample time for acclimatization, less trodden route, and breathtaking sceneries along the way. With of experience in trekking in the Himalayas, we have carefully tailored each of our itineraries. We put a lot of care into all the details when it comes to executing any of your ventures. Safety is always a priority while traveling with AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions and we have applied this strictly on our approach.

Training for High Treks

High altitude treks especially in the Himalayas are challenging and requires you to be in the top physical, emotional, and psychological condition. The more fitter you are, the more enjoyable your trip will be. Training well ahead in advance is recommended and after you have signed up for the trip, we will send you our training booklet which provides essential information on how best to prepare yourself.

Baggage and Weight Limit

We request customers to ensure that the duffel bag weighs less than 15 kg. Baggage allowance for domestic airlines in Nepal is only 15 kg (10 kg for duffel bag and 5 kg for backpack) but we can offer additional baggage allowance. Therefore, after arriving in Kathmandu, extra luggage or belongings that are not needed during the trek can be stored at the hotel in Kathmandu.

Travel Insurance

It’s mandatory and highly recommended to get travel insurance before embarking on any adventurous trips in Nepal. We advise all our clients to get travel insurance that covers up emergency helicopter evacuation that may be needed in case of the occurrence of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) or any other reasons in high altitudes where there are no other means of transportation available. It is advisable to review carefully the insurance and its coverages before making the final decision. More information: Travel Insurance

Passport, Visa and Entry Requirements

Passport: All foreign visitors to Nepal must possess a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond their planned departure date. Nepal visa can be obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport (Tribhuvan International Airport) or you can obtain Nepal visa prior to your arrival through the Nepalese embassies, diplomatic missions and consulates near your location. Nepal Visa is also issued at the entry points if you are entering Nepal by land.

Airport Pickup & Drop:

We will provide airport pickup and drop-off according to your flight schedule. Your airport transfers are organized based on the flight information you provide to us. If there is a change in your flight schedule, please inform us promptly, and we will adjust the transfers accordingly.

Detail Itinerary

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal. Upon completing the visa formalities and collecting your luggages in the airport, kindly proceed to the exit of the arrival hall. Please look out for a placard of your name at the exit of arrival hall. Your trip leader will await you just outside the arrival hall and will escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Welcome drinks will be served and after you’ve refreshed, your trek leader will brief you about your trip.

Thank you for joining us on this trek and it has been a pleasure getting to know you during this time. You will be assisted in your last-minute preparation. Our staff representative will help you pack your luggage, drop you off at the international airport. And we wish you a safe flight. Likewise we hope to see you soon again!

Cost Inclusion

  • Airport/Hotel/Airport pick up and transfer by private car/van
  • Twin-sharing accommodation at Hotel Vajra for 2 nights in Kathmandu
  • Freshly prepared meals (B, L, D) with boiled water, tea, coffee etc.
  • Twin sharing tent for accommodation during the trek. (High-quality 3-men tent)
  • Experienced local trek leader with a 1:4 assistant guide-to-client ratio
  • Full support camping crew with mules for porterage
  • All camping logistical arrangements for your comfort
  • All required permits for the trek
  • Internal airfare (KTM-Nepalgunj-Jhupal and KTM)
  • Comprehensive first aid kit with high-altitude medicine
  • Comprehensive first aid kit with high-altitude medications.
  • Arranging rescue operations in case of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance)
  • Staff wages, equipment, insurance and allowances
  • Farewell dinner before departure.

Cost Exclusion

  • International Airfare and Nepal entry visa fee.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu. (“Except farewell dinner" in Kathmandu)
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on the trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason).
  • Personal expenses (shopping, snacks and cold drinks, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee etc...
  • Personal clothing and trekking gear.
  • Travel insurance has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation along with medical coverage.
  • Tips, gifts, souvenirs for involved trekking staff.
  • Additional costs due to delays caused by circumstances outside company control like landslides, weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies, strikes, etc.
  • All the costs and expenses, which are not listed in "What is included" above will be counted as excludes.

Equipment checklist for the trek

The gears listed below is recommended for the trek. We encourage you to get all the equipment listed below for the trip and please make sure you check out and try each equipment. You can also buy or rent in Kathmandu as there are many trekking shops that have gear ranging from branded to local.

Clothing and footwear:
— Long-sleeved shirts
— Trekking Shirts
— Trekking Trousers
— Warm Jackets/Sweater/Pullover
— Waterproof jackets and trousers
— Thermal
— Inner wears
— Undergarments
— Warm socks
— Cap/Hat to protect from the sun during the trek
— Woollen Hat, Warm gloves, Balaclava sand Bandana/Scarf
— Extra clothes to wear in Kathmandu when you come back from the trek.
— Trekking shoes (Preferably Goretex and full to support your ankle)
— Slippers/Flip flops to wear at camp
— Daypack 30-35 litres (To carry your sunblock, water, camera, waterproof jacket and others that you may require while trekking)

Documents:
— Passport with visa and validity of 6 months after your trip completion
— 4 copies of passport size photos for permits and Visa
— Travel Insurance covering medication evacuation
— Flight tickets
— Credit cards for emergencies
— Driving ID or any other ID in case of loss of your passport.
(Please carry the photocopy of all the documents along with you and leave a copy to next of kin)

Others:
— Headlamps with extra batteries
— Sunglasses with UV protection
— Camera with charger or spare batteries
— A pair of trekking poles
— Water bottles (1) litre
— Laundry bag to keep the dirty clothes
— Large plastic bags to keep the clothes dry
— Padlock
— Binoculars
— Reading materials, notebooks and pens

Toiletries and hygiene:
— Quick-drying towel
— Small face towel
— Toothbrush &Toothpaste
— Deodorants, Soap and Shampoo (Smaller bottle)
— Face and body moisturizer, Sunscreen and lip balm
— Hand sanitizer/Antiseptic wipes
— Hygiene products
— Basic first aid kit

Accessories:
— Down Jacket
— Sleeping bag with liner
— Duffel/Kit Bag

Trip Map

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Upper Dolpo Trek
From $4,899.00
/ per person

Trip Facts

  • 24 nights, 25 days
  • Challenging
  • 5,360m/17,581ft.
  • June to September
  • Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Flights & Car/ Van
  • Hotels/ Camping
  • Min 2 - Max 12

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