The Upper Dolpo Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally significant trekking adventures. Located in the far north-west of Nepal within Shey Phoksundo National Park, Upper Dolpo lies close to the Tibetan border and remains one of the last truly untouched regions of the Himalayas. This trek offers dramatic landscapes, ancient Tibetan culture, and a challenging high-altitude expedition experience.
“Culture & Tradition”Upper Dolpo is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhist and Bon traditions. Monasteries play a central role in village life, and many communities still practice seasonal migration, yak herding, and traditional farming. The language, dress, architecture, and customs closely resemble those of the Tibetan plateau.
“Natural Landscape & Wildlife”
The trek passes through dramatic trans-Himalayan terrain with arid valleys, alpine meadows, and snow-covered passes. Upper Dolpo lies within Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to rare wildlife such as snow leopards, blue sheep, Himalayan wolves, and musk deer. The region is also rich in medicinal plants used in traditional Tibetan medicine.
The Dolpo region trek in Nepal offers remote, culturally rich adventures through high-altitude Tibetan landscapes, featuring stunning Phoksundo Lake, ancient monasteries, and unique wildlife like blue sheep, with routes split into Lower and Upper Dolpo, catering to experienced trekkers seeking wilderness and authentic Tibetan culture, with highlights including high passes, nomadic villages, and stark, beautiful terrain.
About weather
The region of Dolpo undergoes significance changes with the change in seasons. The summers are not to warm and winters are frosty obviously. The optimum trekking period are during springs (April to June) and autumn (September to November). Winter is frosty yet if you are passionate trekker then its fine. Everest Alpine Trekking can organize for you safely. The adventure enthusiasts with hunger to explore off the beaten trails while gaining insights into culture and pristine landscapes, any season is possible to trek the region of Dolpo.
Trip Highlights
- Sacred Shey Gompa (Crystal Mountain), an important pilgrimage site.
- Spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri range and Kanjiroba Himal.
- True wilderness trekking with minimal outside influence.
- Crossing challenging passes including Kang La (5,360m) and Sela La.
- Traditional monasteries, mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags.
- Remote high-altitude villages such as Saldang, Namgung, and Tinje.
Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the Everest Alpine Trekking representatives will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel. After refreshment, you will be briefed in short. If you have any questions or doubts about your trip, then they should be asked and clarified at this time. Overnight stay at a hotel.
On this day, you will meet your trek guide and helpers for your Upper Dolpo Trek. Our city guide will meet you at the hotel for Kathmandu sightseeing tour. You will visit some of the UNESCO world heritage site of Kathmandu valley. A private vehicle will be sent for the tour. You will explore an ancient royal palace dating back since the 16th century known as Patan Durbar Square. Then, you will approach to Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas in Asia. After that, you will visit Pashupatinath, a famous Hindu temple. During dusk, you will visit Swayambhunath for an amazing sunset along with Kathmandu valley view. After that, the vehicle will drop you at the airport.
You will have your breakfast at the hotel. Then, you will drive to the domestic terminal of Tribhuwan International Airport for Kathmandu-Nepalgunj flight. Nepalgunj is a town in the western part of Nepal, very close to the border of India. It is hot and tropical at Nepalgunj. A private vehicle will pick you from the hotel and drop you at the airport. Our trek guide will be with you during the flight. The flight duration will be approx. 50 minutes. At Nepalgunj, our office representative will transfer you to the hotel.
you will drive to Nepalgunj airport for Nepalgunj-Juphal flight. The flight duration will be approx. 35 min to reach Juphal. After landing at Juphal, we will start our trekking. As this is the starting point of the trek, the trail is not difficult. You will walk comfortably and descend for 45 minutes to reach Kalagauda. Then, you will walk another 2 hours along Thuli Bheri River to reach Dunai. After reaching Dunai, rooms will be assigned as per the reservation. Dunai is the headquarter of Dolpa district. There are some government and private schools, college, government offices and police check post. You can hike up to Bon Gumba from where you can enjoy the view of whole Dunai and other villages.
Today is the day, we start our trek adventure. The trek begins along the classic route of Dolpo. The walk is comfortable. At Silughar check-post, we will present the trekking permits to Dolpo and Shey Phoksundo National Park. From here, we are officially inside Shey Phoksundo National Park. Then, we will follow the trail along Phoksundo river. Furthermore, we will witness a drastic change in the landscape, walking through the lush tropical forest. We will pass Kageni, Jutung and Shangta. We will cross bridge over Phoksundo lake and at the confluence of Phoksundo and Maiba Khola. We will head towards north to reach Cheppka. Reaching Cheppka, we will put our camps at a suitable location.
Today we will be walking along the famous trail of Lower Dolpa Circuit trek. We will trek the opposite direction of the river flow. We will cross the bridge over Phoksundo river twice. This trail is amazingly peaceful. We will reach Rechi; our lunch stop at an altitude of 3010m. After lunch, we will again walk along the river side. At sulligad dovan, we will cross a bridge to pass the confluence of Phoksundo river and Yulung Khola. Then, we will reach Amchi Hospital where we will put our camps for the night. Amchi means the traditional doctors who use medicinal herbs to cure infections and diseases found around Dolpo. Hence, this hospital is a treatment center for locals of Dolpo.
Today, we will head towards the deepest lake of Nepal, Shey Phoksundo. We will walk along the direct trail to Phoksundo Lake. We will ascend the forest of cedars to reach Palam. Palam is a winter settlement of locals from Ringmo village. First we will descend to an elevation of around 3300 m. Then we will climb up to a ridge, about 3,875meters, from where we will have the most staggering views of a 300meters waterfall, the highest in Nepal, and our first view of Phoksundo Lake, a study in turquoise. We will then descend through birch forests to the upper reaches of the Phoksundo Khola and on to the picturesque settlement of Ringmo with its mud plastered chortens and Mani walls. The village now has solar panels helping to improve the quality of life of the villagers. From the settlement it is a short walk to the shores of Phoksundo Lake where we will set up the camps.
Today, we will have an exploration day around Phoksundo Lake and the Ringmo village. Firstly, we will explore around the Ringmo village. Ringmo village is a typical Tibetan village with its own unique culture and tradition. Then head towards Tshowa, a Bon monastery at the lake-shore. It was built around 900 years ago. We will explore inside the monastery which will be a fascinating experience. After that, we will descend down to Phoksundo Lake. We will visit some other monasteries and Bon-po religious sites on this day. Shey Phoksundo Lake is the deepest lake of Nepal with its famous turquoise colored water and mind-blowing scenery. We will enjoy the wonderful natural sceneries and spend overnight at the campsite.
Today, we will have the one of the best trekking days of the Dolpo trek. We will climb along the narrow trails along the cliffs above Phoksundo Lake. This part of the trek is similar to the fantasy walk described by writers in their fiction novels. We will then descend along the beautiful forest for around one and half hour. After that, we will reach the other side of the lake, Phoksundo Khola camp. Then, we will ascend the final part of today’s trek and reach Sallaghari. We will put our campsite among the beautiful pine forest.
This day, we will have a short trek of around 3 hours up to Nangdala High camp. We will begin our trek with an ascending of the narrow trail of Tuk Kyaksa river. We will switch the riverside several times. We will cross a bridge over the river where the rapids are calmer. After walking around 30 minutes from the bridge, we will reach a wide valley. From there, we will walk another 2 and half hours along the canyon. Then, we will set our campsite at the massive rock slab i.e. Kang La/ Nangdala Base Camp.
Today, we will trek to Shey Gompa and the Crystal Mountain, the most sacred peak of Dolpo region. This day, we will enter the real fascinating Dolpo region. Before reaching there, we have to cross the Kang LA or the Nangda LA pass. To cross this pass we have to ascend the graveled trail uphill for around 3 hours. This effort of 3 hours will reward us with magnificent views from the top. This magnificent view from the top includes Crystal mountain, the Tibetan territory mountain and the mesmerizing landscape of the Dolpo region. Peaks like Shey Shikhar and Kang Chunne can also be admired during the walk. There is a red chorten at the entrance of Shey Gompa. A grand festival is held every dragon year (once in 12 years) according to the Tibetan calendar. A lot of people from different part of the country join this grand festival. We will put our campsite at Shey Gompa.
This day we will explore around Shey Gompa. This monastery is believed to be 800 years old with ancient scroll describing the myths behind the Crystal Mountain. Shey Gompa is locally known as Shelri Sumdho Gompa. This monastery hosts a summer festival popular as Shey festival. Shey Gompa is well described in “The Snow Leopard” written by Peter matthiessen and pictured in Eric Valli’s “Caravan” movie as Thinley’s son’s Gompa. We will begin our trek after the exploration. We will follow the trails along Sephu khola for around two hours. You will be very surprised with the typical Dolpo landscape. We will ascend Shey LA top in around two hours. Magnificent view of Mustang, Tibet, Kanjirowa, Kagmara and the crystal mountain can be admired during the trek. We will descend another 2 hours to reach Namgung. We will set up the campsite here.
Firstly, we will explore the monastery of Namgung. This beautiful monastery is set on a flanking high cliff. After that, we will begin our trek. We will follow the trails along Namga Khola. We will pass more summer herding spots to reach Saldang village. Saldang is a beautiful village including a lot of dry land which are surrounded by amazing hills. We will explore around the village and interact with the locals. Do not forget to taste some salt butter tea or Chyang (Barley beer) at Saldang. Ancient Buddhist tradition and Amchi tradition in Dolpo flourished at this village.
After an early breakfast, we will hike to Yanjer. It is the richest monastery of this region. We will explore around the monastery and have our packed lunch during the exploration. After that, we will return back to Saldang campsite.
Today’s trek will be approx. six hours. We will head towards Komash village after our breakfast. We will follow the Saldang Lek along the rapyha Khola. We will ascend up to 4500 m and then descend down to Komash village. This village is similar to most of the Tibetan villages. We will set up our camp at Komash village.
We will begin our trek after having breakfast. During our trek this day, we might encounter some rare species like Blue sheep and snow leopard. We will pass various small villages during today’s trek. This part of the trek is filled with highland deserts with shrub like vegetations. The trails are comfortable and not so difficult. After walking for around 4-5 hours, we will reach Shimen. We will set up the camp at a potential campsite.
Today, we will be following the trails along the Panjyang Khola. We will pass some beautiful villages and monasteries along the trails to reach Tinje. The walk duration will be around 5 hours. Tinje is a beautiful valley with a natural air strip where a British aircraft landed and took off once. We will set up our camp at Tinje village.
This day, we will head towards Yak Kharka which will be around 5-6 hours walk. We will follow the trails along Panjyan River passing small settlement of Chhamdang. After Chhamdang, we will walk along the river bank for some times and then to the confluence of Chholtam khola and Panjyan Khola. We will cross a bridge over Thalum khola and then reach an open grazing ground for yaks and sheep. This open ground is known as Yak Kharka.
We will head to Tokyu from Yak Kharka today. Firstly, we will cross a bridge over Sulun Khola which takes us to Choila North pass at an altitude of 5040 m. This part of the trek is a bit difficult one. We will ascend almost 2 hours to reach the top of Choila pass. The top offers a beautiful sight of Tokyu camp. After descending down from the pass, we will reach Tokyu where we will set up our campsite.
This day, we will trek to Dho Tarap. It is a very short trek of around one and half hour. After reaching Dho Tarap, we will explore around the village of Dho Tarap. Dho Tarap is a large village settlement beautifully decorated with colorful Buddhist prayer flags. There are various chortens, mani walls and monasteries around Dho Tarap. Beautiful fields of wheat, buch wheat, barley, potatoes and other green vegetables add more beauty to this village. There are small tea shops and lodges at Dho Tarap. People here resemble the Khampas of Tibet. This refer to men with ponytail and red tassel coiled around their head. Women wear musk deer’s teeth necklaces. This village is well pictured in Eric Valli’s popular movie “Caravan”, where Karma, Thinley and their groups set off with their salt trade for Barley over the high passes. We will enjoy wonderful natural tour as well as participate in cultural programs performed by the villagers with their traditional Tibetan dance and songs. You will have choice to explore some monasteries around Dho Tarap so choose wisely. Some of the monasteries are Ribo Bumpa Monastery, Drakmar Dewa Monastery, Mekhyim Monastery & Dhoro Monastery.
Today’s trek will be a long one as we have to cover a long distance than other days. We will trek along the flat traail which will takes us to the confluence of Tarap Khola and Mirubabane Khola. Then, we will cross a bridge over Klang Khola, Langa Camp. We will continuously follow the trails along the Tarap Khola. Beautiful picturesque view of the magnificent landscape can be admired during this part of the trek. We will pass various beautiful settlements of Sisaul, Gyamghar and Toltol. After that, we will reach our campsite destination, Naworpani. We will set up the camp at Naworpani.
Today also, we will follow the trails along the Tarap Khola. Walking for some time, we will witness some change in the view and landscape. Green forest will start to emerge as we move more forward. We will then ascend to Lamchaur high over Tarap Khola. After crossing Lahini Odar, we will descend down and reach Chhedhul Gompa. Again, after following some time along the Tarap Khola, we will reach Laisicap where we will set up the camp.
Today, we will trek along the green lands above Thuli Bheri river to reach Tarakot. After reaching Tarakot, we will cross a small bridge over a stream. We will pass Lawan and Byasgad on this day. Today’s trek will offer some greenery and forested region and cultivated terraced fields. Reaching Dunai, rooms will be assigned.
You will walk back to Dunai along the same route. You will hike behind the Bheri River after crossing a bridge close to Lawan Village. The Upper Dolpo Trekking Trail then climbs to Byas Gadi before heading west over a simple route. After crossing a river close to Lochakhola Gaon, you will climb and arrive in Dunai for the night.
You can trek alongside the Bheri River and take in the stunning views along the route. You will also pass via the villages of Dhupichaur and Rupgad. After passing past the villages of Motipur and Kalagaonda, the Upper Dolpo Trekking Trail brings you to a tiny airfield from which you may fly back to Jhupal.
Today is the last day of the trek. We will follow the trail along the Bheri river until we reach Kalagawda. After Kalagawda, we will ascend some times to reach Juphal. It will be a short trek of around 3 hours up to Juphal.
Early morning, we will have our breakfast and head towards Juphal airport for the early morning flight to Nepalgunj. We will fly to Nepalgunj this day. At Nepalgunj, you will have some time to explore around depending on your flight schedule. In the afternoon, you will approach to Nepalgunj for Kathmandu flight. At Kathmandu, our office representative will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel. Rest of the day is free to explore and enjoy the nightlife of Thamel. Farewell dinner will be provided at a typical Nepali restaurant with some musical program.
You have the day off today in Kathmandu. You may unwind for the day, go shopping, and explore the area. If you would like, we can also set up a guided tour of the sites you missed the first time. You will enjoy a lovely goodbye supper this evening as you prepare to depart for your homeland tomorrow and celebrate the successful end of your Upper Dolpo Trekking Journey.
You are free to shop and explore around Thamel bazaar until your final departure depending on your flight schedule. Our private vehicle will drop you to Tribhuwan International Airport for your final departure
Cost Includes
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu (arrival & departure).
- Domestic flights: Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Juphal – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu.
- All domestic flight taxes and airport fees.
- Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit (USD 500 per person for first 10 days + extra days as required).
- Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit.
- Government-licensed, experienced English-speaking trekking guide.
- Required number of assistant guides, porters, cook, and kitchen staff.
- Guide, porter, and staff insurance, salary, food, and accommodation.
- Full camping equipment (sleeping tents, dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, tables, chairs, sleeping mats).
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
- Tea/coffee during meals on trekking days.
- Trekking permits, route fees, and local government taxes.
- First-aid medical kit carried by the guide.
- Emergency communication equipment (satellite phone if provided by company).
- All necessary paperwork and government documentation.
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
Cost Excludes
- International airfare to and from Nepal.
- Nepal visa fee.
- Travel insurance (must include high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation).
- Personal trekking equipment (sleeping bag, down jacket, boots, trekking poles, etc.).
- Personal expenses (hot showers, battery charging, phone calls, internet, laundry).
- Alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, and bottled beverages.
- Extra snacks beyond regular meals.
- Tips for guides, porters, and trekking staff (expected but not compulsory).
- Extra hotel nights and meals in Kathmandu due to early return, delays, or flight cancellation.
- Costs due to natural disasters, weather conditions, or changes in government regulations.
- Any service not specifically mentioned in the Cost Includes section.
FAQS
The Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek is a 24or28-day challenging trek in the remote north-western region of Nepal, known for its rich Tibetan culture, diverse flora and fauna, and stunning landscapes including Shey Phoksundo Lake and Crystal Mountain.
The trek starts and ends in Dunai, with flights to and from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and then to Jhupal.
Yes, beginners can do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It is considered a moderate-level trek and is one of the more accessible Himalayan routes for those new to trekking. With proper preparation, a reasonable level of fitness, and a guided itinerary, beginners can complete the trek safely and enjoyably.
The highest point of the trek is Jeng La Pass, which reaches an altitude of 5670 meters).
Yes, Everest Alpine Trekkingl’s guides speak English and are trained to communicate clearly with international trekkers. They also provide valuable insights into the region’s culture, history, and landscape.
If your preferred dates are not listed in the Fixed Departure Date, simply click on Ask Question and let us know your desired dates. We’ll add them and send you a booking link.
Upper Dolpo Trek Map
