Upper Dolpo Trek

Reflecting on the unique culture, way of life, dialect, and the practice of the Bonpo religion the region explored on the Upper Dolpo Trek have been referred to as the living museum of the world. Finding its similarities with Tibet, Upper Dolpo boasts the ultimate off-the-beaten-track experience amplified by the majestic Himalayas including the majestic Dhaulagiri Himalayan Range, lonely trails snaking through lush green forests adorned with wide varieties of floras and faunas, vibrant hamlets, and unique culture which has been passed down from generation to generation.

Our journey into the land of myth begins from the Kathmandu valley touring its world heritage sites before making our way towards the Terai city of Nepalgunj. Heading towards the trail-head at Juphal, we begin our journey with a pleasant trek towards the hamlet of Sulighat. Continuing on the Himalayan trail snakes towards the hamlet of Chhepka and then over to Ringmo where we come across the pristine Phoksundo lake. Surrounded by the Himalayas the lake itself is a wonder of nature and gives a perfect stop for a rest day. Through the hills and vibrant hamlets, the trail takes us towards the high Kang La pass which at 5,350m boasts stunning views of the majestic Dhaulagiri Himalayan Range alongside countless other Himalayas. Reaching Shey gompa, we come face to face with the famous Crystal Mountain which is named after the peculiar mineral found in its contorted cliffs. Taking a day off for exploration and familiarizing with the unique Bonpo culture, the trail once again brings us to another high mountain pass of Saldang La from where we begin our way down towards Namgung village. The final phase of the journey takes us down descending through the hamlets of Saldang and Sibu once again reaching another high mountain pass at 5,090m. Crossing the Jeng La Pass (5220m), we reach Dho Tarap where we take final of our rest days before the journey winds down towards Juphal crossing the vibrant hamlets of Khanigaon and Tarakot en-route.

We here at Nepal Ascent Treks, been a part of many wonderful memories shared amongst countless trekkers and adventurers. With quality and customer satisfaction at the heart of everything, you will have nothing to worry about during the travel. We enable our customers to enjoy to the fullest and a trek like this deserves nothing less.

Trip Highlights:

A complete off-the-beaten trail experience
Unmatched splendor and unspoiled beauty adding to the authenticity
Majestic views of the Himalayas
A chance to observe the rare practice of Bonpo religion
Cross numerous high passes including Kang La (5350m) and Jeng La (5220m)

Outline Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrive Kathmandu (1,300m)
Day 2 : Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation
Day 3 : Fly from Kathmandu - Nepalgunj & Transfer to Hotel
Day 4 : Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2320m) & trek to Suligad Ghat (2070m) 2-3 hrs
Day 5 : Trek from Suligad Ghat to Renje (3010m) 5-6 hrs
Day 6 : Trek from Renje to Phoksundo Lake (3600m) via Ringmo village (3640m) 5-6 hrs
Day 7 : Rest day in Phoksundo Lake and explore around Ringmo village
Day 8 : Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Phoksundo Khola (3630m) 4-5 hrs
Day 9 : Trek from Phoksundo Khola to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4120m) 6-7 hrs
Day 10 : Trek from Phoksundo Bhanjyang to Shey gompa (4390m) via Kang-La pass (5350m) 5-6 hrs
Day 11 : Rest day at Shey Gompa the Crystal Monastery
Day 12 : Trek from Shey Gompa to Namgung village (4430m) via Saldang La (5010m) 6-7 hrs
Day 13 : Trek from Namgung village to Saldang (3620m) 4-5 hrs
Day 14 : Trek from Saldang to Yangze Gompa (4960m) 4-5 hrs
Day 15 : Trek from Yangze Gompa to Sibu (4560m) 6-7 hrs
Day 16 : Trek from Sibu to Jeng La Phedi (4900m) 5-6 hrs
Day 17 : Trek from Jeng La Phedi to Dho Tarap (4080m) via Jeng La pass (5220m) 6-7 hrs
Day 18 : Day explore and acclimatization in Dho Tarap
Day 19 : Trek from Dho Tarap to Tarap Khola (Karma Kharka|3800m) 6-7 hrs
Day 20 : Trek from Tarap Khola to Khanigaon (3150m) 5-6 hrs
Day 21 : Trek from Khanigaon to Dunai (2030m) via Tarakot 5-6 hrs
Day 22 : Trek from Dunai - Juphal (2320m) 2-3 hrs
Day 23 : Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj to Kathmandu
Day 24 : Departure day

Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu (1,300m)

After landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representatives will get in touch with you and you will be driven directly to the hotel where much-needed refreshments await. You will be hen introduced to the office staff and the guides who will be accompanying you for the duration of the trek. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation

The day begins with an early morning breakfast after which we head to the stupa of Swayambhunath. The temple revered by both Hindus and Buddhists boasts stunning views of the Kathmandu valley. Heading down, we reach the Hindu temple of Pashupatinath which sees thousands of pilgrims from several nations making their way to pay their respects. Taking a historical turn, we head to the Kings courtyard at Kathmandu Durbar Square before ending the day with the pleasant views of sunset at Boudhanath. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu - Nepalgunj & Transfer to Hotel

Today we head towards the Terai hamlet of Nepalgunj. Boarding an early flight the journey leads us towards the west. The hour-long flight is quite a pleasant one boasting a diverse set of landscapes and the town itself is a mixture of unique culture and way of life. We also head to the local market and surrounding areas to witness the diverse set of cultures and traditions of the locals. Overnight stay at Nepalgunj.

Day 4: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2320m) & trek to Suligad Ghat (2070m) 2-3 hrs

We begin the day with an early morning flight heading towards the hilly town of Juphal which boasts stunning views of both Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan ranges. Taking a short rest, we begin our trek heading through vegetable fields which gradually leads down to the banks of Thuli Bheri River. With the majestic Dhaulagiri Himalayan Range accompanying us we continue our journey alongside the banks of Suli Khola reaching Suligad Ghat. Overnight stay at Suligad Ghat.

Day 5: Trek from Suligad Ghat to Renje (3010m) 5-6 hrs

The trail continues its journey in solitude through the lush green forests continuing towards the opening valley. Enjoying the trans-Himalayan ecosystem which governs the entire region, we continue our journey surrounded by the Himalayas. The trail leaves the flat land behind beginning its routine ascends and descends through a forest. The thinning forests give way to Renje village. Overnight stay at Renje.

Day 6: Trek from Renje to Phoksundo Lake (3600m) via Ringmo village (3640m) 5-6 hrs

Day six and we are nearly at the deepest lake of the nation! The trail heading out of Renje hamlet is a pleasant one continuing its trend of ascends and descends through the lush green forests. Adorned with the stunning views of the Himalayas beyond the disappearing hills the journey to Ringmo village is enjoyable. We then head towards Phoksundo Lake with its stunning Himalayan views and crystalline waters. Overnight stay at Phoksundo.

Day 7: Rest day in Phoksundo Lake and explore around Ringmo village

An early day as we gear up for the most stunning view of the entire trek yet. The stunning views of the early morning sun reflected by the golden Himalayas and the sparkling waters of Phoksundo Lake. Enjoying the stunning Himalayan views, we can also head down to the Ringmo village which gives us a perfect chance to get acquainted with the local culture and the Dolpo people. Overnight stay at Ringmo Village.

Day 8: Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Phoksundo Khola (3630m) 4-5 hrs

Enjoying the majestic views of the Himalayas, we begin our journey through the steep Himalayan trail leaving behind the comfort of lush green forests and Hilly landscapes. The trail heads towards the top western frontier of the Phoksundo Lake continuing towards the rocky ledge. At places, the trail is supported by logs of wood tied together which signals the true remoteness of the journey. Continuing on the trail brings us to the banks of Phoksundo Khola where we set up camp for the night.

Day 9: Trek from Phoksundo Khola to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4120m) 6-7 hrs

The journey heads north as we gradually make our way through the trail level with the glacial valley reaching a wooden bridge where the Phoksundo Khola converges with other mountain streams. Enjoying the stunning views of Chamlang Peak (6,739m) and Peak 7 (6,105m), we continue our journey heading towards the opening valley through the steep ravines. The final stretch of the journey veers steeply upwards towards the top of the hill where we set up camp nearing the Kang – La Pass (5350m). Overnight stay at Phoksundo Bhanjyang.

Day 10: Trek from Phoksundo Bhanjyang to Shey gompa (4390m) via Kang-La pass (5350m) 5-6 hrs

The journey begins through the steep Himalayan trail which has hosted us for the last few days. Carefully picking our way through the snowy Himalayan trail we make our way to the summit of Kang- La pass and, at 5,350m, the pass is also the highest point of our trek. Enjoying the stunning views of the majestic Dhaulagiri Himalayan Range bordering the stunning Himalayan Ranges towards Tibet, we continue our way heading towards Shey Gompa descending via the mountain pass. Crossing the opening valley several times we reach Shey Gompa. Overnight stay at Shey Gompa.

Day 11: Rest day at Shey Gompa the Crystal Monastery

Today, we take second of our three allocated rest days. Shey Gompa is one of the oldest monasteries of the region which was built in 1655 and pays ode to the Sakyamuni Buddha. The monastery is filled with ancient art and artifacts several of which date back thousands of years. The region is also well known for its practice of Bonpo. Mirroring the beauty of Shey Gompa is the Crystal Mountain. Many pilgrims make their way to the region to circumambulate the mountain. Overnight stay at Crystal Monastery.

Day 12: Trek from Shey Gompa to Namgung village (4430m) via Saldang La (5010m) 6-7 hrs

Today, the journey takes on the second of three mountain passes we encounter in this trek. The Saldang La located at 5,010m is a dramatic and challenging mountain pass blessed with stunning views of the Himalayas and the valley opening down below. After a strenuous climb to the summit, we take in the familiar sights of the Himalayas before making our way down through the yak pasture to reach Namgung village. We also visit the Namgung monastery often referred to as red stone monastery. Overnight stay at Namgung.

Day 13: Trek from Namgung village to Saldang (3620m) 4-5 hrs

Nearly at the midpoint of our journey today we begin our journey heading down towards the hamlet of Saldang. Through the diverse barren mountain landscapes, we begin our strenuous ascend which comes to an end at the point where we can see the hamlet of Saldang perched high above the Nagma Khola stream. Overnight stay at Saldang.

Day 14: Trek from Saldang to Yangze Gompa (4960m) 4-5 hrs

Continuing our journey north, we gradually climb towards Yangze Gompa. Heading out of Saldang, the journey walks on a fairly balanced trail avoiding any drastic ups and downs along the way. Enjoying the enchanting views of the Himalayas, we cross the hamlets of Marang and Ki before coming across a tributary of Panzang River from where the trail heads east to Yangze Gompa. Overnight stay at Yangze Gompa.

Day 15: Trek from Yangze Gompa to Sibu (4560m) 6-7 hrs

Heading out of Yangze Gompa, today, we make our way towards the hamlet of Sibu. Making our way back to Saldang village the trail begins its way down through several terraced fields accompanied by Chortens and seas of prayer flags all along the way. Through Chaiba Monastery the trail leads down to Namde located on the high slopes of Nam Khong River. Making a short visit to Namde Monastery down the river bank, we follow the sandy banks all the way to Sibu. Overnight stay at Sibu.

Day 16: Trek from Sibu to Jeng La Phedi (4900m) 5-6 hrs

A pleasant day today, we begin our journey heading out of Sibu towards the Jeng La Phedi. Continuing through the banks of Nam Khong River, we head east accompanied by caravans heading towards Tibet for trade. After arriving at the convergence point of two Himalayan streams, the trail begins its steep ascent towards the pasture land where we set up camp. Overnight stay at Jeng La Phedi.

Day 17: Trek from Jeng La Phedi to Dho Tarap (4080m) via Jeng La pass (5220m) 6-7 hrs

The final of the mountain passes, today, we head towards the Jeng La pass carefully navigating past the icy Himalayan trail covered in snow. Enjoying the views of the north face of Dhaulagiri Mastiff (8,167m), the trail continues towards the summit of Jeng La Pass (5220m) beyond which the Tarap valley opens gradually. Through the rocky trail, we begin our descent gradually heading down to the hamlet of Dho Tarap. Overnight stay at Dho Tarap.

Day 18: Day explore and acclimatization in Dho Tarap

The final of our rest days, today, we stay at the hamlet of Dho Tarap and explore the enchanting valley. The hamlet is surrounded by irregular stone walls and the region houses few clusters of settlements accommodated by the Magar people and the local Dolpo people. The region also houses a Buddhist monastery nearby and a Bonpo monastery at the outskirts of the hamlet. Overnight stay at Dho Tarap.

Day 19: Trek from Dho Tarap to Tarap Khola (Karma Kharka|3800m) 6-7 hrs

Today, the journey gradually descends down towards Tarap Khola beginning with the narrow trail heading out of the valley. The alpine vegetation is once again replaced by the lush green forests as the trail descends through the tree line. Upon arriving at the convergence point of Tarap Chu and Lang Khola, we follow the sandy banks of the river to reach Karma Kharka. Overnight stay at Karma Kharka.

Day 20: Trek from Tarap Khola to Khanigaon (3150m) 5-6 hrs

The final few days of the trek continues the descent heading down through the forested trail and out of the Dolpo region. Wrapping up the camps, we begin our way down through the gorge of Tarap River. The trail is an exciting one as we map our ways down the gorge where at times there are no visible trails. Enjoying the views of the Himalayan rural landscape, we reach Khanigaon beside the Tarap River for our final camp stay. Overnight stay at Khanigaon.

Day 21: Trek from Khanigaon to Dunai (2030m) via Tarakot 5-6 hrs

An early day today, we begin our descent from Khanigaon heading down to Tarakot and then onto Dunai. The journey out of Khanigaon kicks off with a lovely trail leading to Lalberi beyond which we once again pick up the trail heading alongside the River. Visiting Sandul Gompa en route, we continue along the Bheri River to reach Dunai. Overnight stay at Dunai.

Day 22: Trek from Dunai - Juphal (2320m) 2-3 hrs

The final day of the trek begins with a lovely Himalayan breakfast before we make our way down to Juphal. Trekking alongside the Bheri River in the company of curvaceous landscapes, we come across countless vibrant hamlets occupied by the local people. Through the hamlets of Dhupi Chaur, Rupagad, Kalagauda, and Motipur, we continue our journey reaching the hamlet of Juphal ending our journey. Overnight stay at Juphal.

Day 23: Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj to Kathmandu

The day begins with an early morning flight out of Juphal heading out to Nepalgunj. After a brief rest, we once again take a flight out of Nepalgunj heading back the Kathmandu for the night. Back at Kathmandu, we will head directly to the hotel for refreshments. Time permitting, you are free to take a look around in the local markets for souvenirs back home. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 24: Departure day

Once again our representatives will drive you back to Tribhuvan International Airport just in time for your next flight back home. We hope you had a lovely time with us.

What's included ?

1 hour trekkers massage / Yoga after the trip completion.
A porter and his entire expenses.
Airport pickup and drop facility.
All monument entrance fees.
All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (National Park Permit, TIMS)
Breakfast,Lunch and dinner during the trek.
Down jackets and sleeping bags (provided upon request).
First aid medical kit
Fresh seasonal fruits after the dinner (while on the trek).
Full day guided city tour in Kathmandu (Day 2) by a private vehicle.
Good quality tents and kitchen utensils for camping
Insurance of guide and porter.
Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Jufal-Nepalgunj-Kathmandu flight tickets
Licensed, experienced and English speaking trekking guide.
Local sim card
Lodge expenses during the trek.
Nepal Ascent Treks duffel bag, t-shirt, and trekking map.
Stay in the city at finest hotel (Can upgrade of the accommodations to luxury hotels / lodge is possible at extra cost).
Transportation in private vehicle.
Welcome and farewell dinner at one of the finest Nepalese Restaurant with traditional ethnic music and dance.

What's excluded ?

Cost for additional trips.
Extra porter charge.
International airfare to and from Kathmandu
Meals in the city except for breakfast and other mentioned special dinner.
Nepal arrival visa.
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
Tipping to staffs (as an appreciation).
Travel insurance which covers emergency rescue and evacuation.

The given cost are per person and exclude international flights. Given below are the departure dates available for online booking. If the given date is not favorable then please write us and we will happily customize your trip on dates more appropriate for you.

Please Check Available Dates for The Year of:

Start Date	End Date	Status	Price
3rd Oct, 2023	26th Oct, 2023	Available	USD 4439
6th Oct, 2023	29th Oct, 2023	Available	USD 4439
9th Oct, 2023	1st Nov, 2023	Available	USD 4439
12th Oct, 2023	4th Nov, 2023	Available	USD 4439
15th Oct, 2023	7th Nov, 2023	Available	USD 4439
18th Oct, 2023	10th Nov, 2023	Available	USD 4439
21st Oct, 2023	13th Nov, 2023	Available	USD 4439
24th Oct, 2023	16th Nov, 2023	Available	USD 4439
27th Oct, 2023	19th Nov, 2023	Available	USD 4439
30th Oct, 2023	22nd Nov, 2023	Available	USD 4439

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Trip Overview

Trip Code

169
Trip profile

24 Days Upper Dolpo Trek
Type

Trekking
Span

24 Days
Accommodation

3 star hotel in Kathmandu & tea house during trek
Meal

All meals included during the trek
Country

Nepal
Starts from:

Kathmandu,Nepal
Ends at:

Kathmandu,Nepal

Quick Enquiry for Upper Dolpo Trek

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Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo Trek

5160 m / 16929.13 .ft

24 Days

Hard

$4439 4789

Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu (1,300m)

Day 2: Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation

Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu - Nepalgunj & Transfer to Hotel

Day 4: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2320m) & trek to Suligad Ghat (2070m) 2-3 hrs

Day 5: Trek from Suligad Ghat to Renje (3010m) 5-6 hrs

Day 6: Trek from Renje to Phoksundo Lake (3600m) via Ringmo village (3640m) 5-6 hrs

Day 7: Rest day in Phoksundo Lake and explore around Ringmo village

Day 8: Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Phoksundo Khola (3630m) 4-5 hrs

Day 9: Trek from Phoksundo Khola to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4120m) 6-7 hrs

Day 10: Trek from Phoksundo Bhanjyang to Shey gompa (4390m) via Kang-La pass (5350m) 5-6 hrs

Day 11: Rest day at Shey Gompa the Crystal Monastery

Day 12: Trek from Shey Gompa to Namgung village (4430m) via Saldang La (5010m) 6-7 hrs

Day 13: Trek from Namgung village to Saldang (3620m) 4-5 hrs

Day 14: Trek from Saldang to Yangze Gompa (4960m) 4-5 hrs

Day 15: Trek from Yangze Gompa to Sibu (4560m) 6-7 hrs

Day 16: Trek from Sibu to Jeng La Phedi (4900m) 5-6 hrs

Day 17: Trek from Jeng La Phedi to Dho Tarap (4080m) via Jeng La pass (5220m) 6-7 hrs

Day 18: Day explore and acclimatization in Dho Tarap

Day 19: Trek from Dho Tarap to Tarap Khola (Karma Kharka|3800m) 6-7 hrs

Day 20: Trek from Tarap Khola to Khanigaon (3150m) 5-6 hrs

Day 21: Trek from Khanigaon to Dunai (2030m) via Tarakot 5-6 hrs

Day 22: Trek from Dunai - Juphal (2320m) 2-3 hrs

Day 23: Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj to Kathmandu

Day 24: Departure day

What's included ?

What's excluded ?

Please Check Available Dates for The Year of:

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