The 28 Days Upper Dolpo Trek takes you to jaw-dropping alpine regions away from the main tourist trails. If it is solitude, a pristine environment, and a genuinely warm and kind-hearted people that turn you on, then this is the trek for you. This is a perfect getaway from the material world; a place where you can open your mind and hopefully realize what is important in this world. There are more smiles than mountains!
The Upper Dolpo trek takes you into the Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to a number of endangered species, such as the elusive snow leopard, grey wolf, musk deer, blue sheep, goral, great Tibetan sheep, Himalayan Tahr, jackal, and Himalayan black bear.
The “Bon” people in this region practice a distinct form of Tibetan Buddhism that is reflected in their homes and daily lives.
The Dolpo region is divided into two parts Upper Dolpo and Lower Dolpo. The trail begins at Jufal which is reached after a short flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and then fly to Jufal (2499m) in Upper Dolpo. The highest point of the trek is at Shey Gompa (Crystal Monastery), an 800-year-old Tibetan monastery and one of the most famous in all of Nepal. The trail takes you through the Annapurna, Kanjiroba, and Dhaulagiri ranges and to the crystal clear waters of Phoksundo Lake (3612m). You will see the unspoiled culturally rich Bon and Buddhist villages: Saldang, Tokyu Gaon (Yak Kharka), DhoTarap and Tarakot and the major town of the Dolpo region - Dunai.
If you want to preview what lies ahead on your trek to Upper Dolpo, then we recommend you take a peek at these movies. Dolpo was the location for the Oscar-nominated movies "The Himalaya" and “The Caravan” and for the German documentary Dolpo Tulku. It wasn’t until 1989 that the southern part of Dolpo eventually opened up to trekkers
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking guarantee this trek will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
On your arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by Sherpa Expedition and trekking staff and transferred to your respective hotels followed by a briefing regarding Upper Dolpo Jomsom Juphal Trek, hotels, lodges on the route and the dos and don’ts .
Today, we will spend the day sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley with our guide. We will visit Pashupatinath, which is regarded as the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal and where pilgrims worship Lord Shiva (situated on the banks of the holy Bagmati River), Bouddhanath, a Buddhist temple known as ‘Little Tibet’ and then on to Swayambhunath known as the Monkey Temple. From Swayambhunath we drive to Kathmandu’s famous Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and located in front of the old royal palace. Upon arriving back at your hotel you may have time to do some last-minute shopping around Thamel – the tourist hub of Kathmandu.
Today we travel to Pokhara via Prithvi Highway, a trip of around six to seven hours. Upon reaching Pokhara we can relax or take in some of the sights.
In the early morning we can take a hike to the hills and witness the sun rise over the Annapurnas and see, Machapuchare, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri Range, and across Pokhara valley. After returning to the hotel for breakfast we can head to Sarangkot where you can experience paragliding. After lunch your guide will take you to Bindabasini Temple, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, the Seti River gorges, to Tibetan refugee camps and high on the hill to the World Peace Pagoda and finally to the museum.
Today we will take a 20 minute scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom in the Mustang region. From Jomsom we follow the trail for about three hours on the banks of the Kali Gandaki (river) until we reach Dhangarjung where we will stay the night.
Today the trail takes us through fir, birch and bamboo forests and along the trail pass Tibetan monasteries and other signs of Tibetan culture. We then climb towards Phoksundo Lake and Ringmo the starting point to Dolpo. We eventually reach a 3800m ridge where we have awesome views over the turquoise blue Phoksundo Lake after which we descend to Sangda where we stay the night.
Today we trek through the Kang Gopa Valley and climb to 4060m from where we have amazing views of Sonam Kang, Shey Shikar (6239m) and Kang Chunne (6443m). The trail is rugged and barren. We will camp overnight at Niwar La Phedi.
The trail today takes us through Niwar La Pass (5250m) and Tudje La Pass (5185m) from where we have some awesome in-your-face views of the mountains. After another three hours on the trail we reach Yak Kharka where we stay the night.
The trail today initially takes us to Rakpa Village and then through Shey La Pass (5010m) and then we head down to Namgung Village. After passing Namgung Village we cross Dolma La Pass and then ascend a steep narrow path to Shey and then head to Chharka Village where we will camp overnight. We can also visit the local monastery, Tsakang Gompa.
Today we will cross Shey La Pass at 5010m and descend for a while before climbing to Namjung Village and then on to Namjung Khola (river) and to Karang Village. We continue and head downhill to Torak Sumdo and then ascend to Yanger Gompa (3750m). We again descend to Mugoan Village and then ascend to Mushi La Pass (5030m) and then continue to Shimen Village (4010m), Pha (4090m) and on to Tinje Village. Finally we reach Chanla Phedi where we camp the night.
We will ascend to Charkala (4920m) and then descend into the valley. The trail today is undulating and becomes narrower. We continue until we reach Do Tarap where we camp overnight.
Today we take time to explore the picturesque valley of Dho Tarap. Dho and Tarap are some of the highest altitude settlements in the world. The people here are Khampas from Tibet and follow their unique form of Buddhism, Bon Po. From this vantage point we have amazing views over the mountains to the west and the turquoise blue Shey Phoksundo Lake. Overnight we stay at Do Tarap.
Today we climb higher through the valley to Tok-Khyu through the 5000m pass that offers some magnificent views of the surrounding peaks. We then descend to the Payon Khola (river) and then on to Namjung, Mungaon, Shimen, Tinje, Rakpa and Norbulung until we reach Pangjang Khola Dovan where we will camp overnight.
The day begins as we descend to Musigaon and then through Lnag-La Pass and then head downhill for about four hours before reaching Tinje Gaon where we camp overnight.
Today the trail is mostly downhill for about six hours and along the way we may see yak caravans, horses and mules carrying goods. Tonight we will camp at Shimen Gaon.
Today we cross Shimen La Pass (4270m) and continue for about five hours before reaching Koma where we camp for the night.
Today we head north toward the Tibetan border walking through the Nankhang Valley and along the trail have views of Mt.Kanjiroba. We arrive at Saldang where we camp overnight.
Today we cross the high altitude Sela La Pass (5095) from where we have breathtaking views of the snow-clad peaks. We will camp overnight here.
Today we can explore this culturally and historically rich place and visit the ancient monastery. The Gompa (monastery) was built in 1665.
Our trail today will last about two hours, at first crossing Kangla La Pass (5360m) and then descending to the river before reaching Lar Tsa where we will camp for the night.
Today we head to the brilliant blue Phoksundo Lake which even at this altitude never completely freezes. The trek today is not so physically demanding. We will camp here overnight. This is truly worth the journey and is one of the highlights of this journey into Dolpo.
Passing through Ringmo we descend to Sanduwa along a trail that is situated between the rivers Kagmara Khola and Phoksundo Khola. There is also a national park and army checkpoint at Sanduwa. We will camp here overnight.
Today it is all downhill as we leave the mountains behind us and follow the river heading south until we reach Chhepka where we will camp overnight.
Today the trail follows along the bank of the Bheri River. The trek should take us around four hours after which we will reach Dunai where we will camp for the night. The views of the mountains from here are memorable.
This is our final day of trekking as we head to Jhupal where we will camp overnight.
Today we fly to Nepalgunj and then on to Kathmandu (about 60 minutes). On arrival back at Kathmandu we will drop you back at your hotels where you can either sit back and relax or explore Thamel and find a bar to celebrate your epic journey.
Today is yours to spend as you wish. You may opt to explore the nearby towns of Basantapur, Patan, and Bhaktapur, or to do some last-minute shopping.
Your adventure comes to an end today – but your memories will last a lifetime! Our company representative will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure and explore the most magnificent mountains of Nepal.
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Western Nepal is remote, making access more difficult than other parts of Nepal. First, you have to get to Nepalgunj, on the plains, and then to Juphal in Dolpo district.
Most people fly to Nepalgunj from either Kathmandu or Pokhara. From Nepalgunj, you then fly to Juphal. (It isn’t possible to fly directly to Juphal from Kathmandu, although expensive charter flights can be arranged from Pokhara.) Most organized tours will fly from Kathmandu. Keep in mind that the airport at Juphal is no more than a tiny mountain airstrip, where bad weather can often delay flights.
Nepalgunj is also accessible by road, but it is a long trip from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Roads are improving throughout Western Nepal, but Juphal is currently several days’ walk from the nearest road-head.
Permits for Upper Dolpo are expensive and strictly enforced. You also need to purchase a permit for Lower Dolpo, which you pass through on your way to Upper Dolpo. On top of that, only 250 foreigners are permitted to enter Upper Dolpo each year.
Lower Dolpo: $10 USD per week
Upper Dolpo: $50 USD per day (10-day minimum)
There is also an Rs. 1000 entry fee to the Shey-Phoksundo National Park. As it’s mandatory to trek with a guide on an organized tour in Upper Dolpo, your tour operator will arrange all permits and these fees are generally included in the total cost of your trip.
Like much of Nepal, the best time to visit Upper Dolpo is the spring (April to May) and the fall (October to November) when temperatures are pleasant, skies are the clearest, and there is minimal chance of snow at high altitudes. Late/early snow can affect this trek in April and November, making some passes impossible to cross. Phoksundo Lake, Shey Phoksundo National Park
Trekking in Upper Dolpo is considered strenuous. There are steep ascents, three passes above 5000 m., several nights spent above 3500 m. and some long trekking days of six hours or more. The fact that this is a camping trek adds to the physical challenge and discomfort of trekking in Upper Dolpo, and rest days are recommended.
This is not a beginner’s trek or one to attempt if it’s your first time in Nepal. But it will be a worthwhile challenge for experienced trekkers and repeat visitors to Nepal alike!
Most treks in Upper Dolpo are fully-catered camping treks given accommodation and food supplies are hard to come by along the trail. (Upper Dolpo is known to have food shortages.) Some basic teahouse/lodge accommodation is available in some villages, but shouldn’t be relied upon.
It is advised to take as many food provisions when trekking in Upper Dolpo (and anywhere in Western Nepal, in general). If participating in an organized trek (essential in Upper Dolpo), your food needs will be taken care of. It is still important to be mindful of the fact that restocking provisions can be challenging for guides and porters in this region, and that resources are scarce.
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The Upper Dolpo Trek to Jomsom typically takes around 20-28 days, depending on the trekking route and your pace. This duration includes acclimatization days, rest days, and time for exploration.
Yes, the Upper Dolpo Trek to Jomsom is considered a challenging trek. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, high altitude passes, and rugged terrain. It requires a good level of fitness, prior trekking experience, and acclimatization to the altitude.
Yes, a special permit is required for the Upper Dolpo Trek. You will need both the Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit and the Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit. These permits are arranged by trekking agencies and are not available for independent trekkers.
The best time to do the Upper Dolpo Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures. However, it is possible to trek in Upper Dolpo during the monsoon season (June to August) as well, though the trails may be wet and slippery.
Accommodation along the Upper Dolpo Trek is basic, with limited tea houses and guesthouses available in certain villages. Camping is also a common option for this trek. The food options are usually simple, consisting of local Nepali and Tibetan dishes, as well as some international options in larger villages.
Altitude sickness can be a concern on the Upper Dolpo Trek due to the high altitude passes and the remote nature of the region. It is important to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and ascend gradually to minimize the risk of altitude-related illnesses. It is recommended to consult with a doctor and trek with an experienced guide.
The Upper Dolpo region is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism, so it is important to respect the local customs and traditions. It is customary to walk clockwise around monasteries and religious sites, remove your shoes when entering temples, and dress modestly. It is also polite to ask for permission before taking photographs of the locals.
The Upper Dolpo Trek is a restricted area trek, which means that you need to trek with a registered guide and obtain the necessary permits. It is not allowed to trek solo in this region. Hiring a guide is recommended as they have local knowledge, can assist with logistics, and ensure your safety during the trek.
You will need proper trekking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, a good quality sleeping bag, a backpack, a waterproof jacket, and trekking poles. It is also essential to carry a first aid kit, water purification tablets, and high SPF sunscreen.
Yes, it is possible to extend your trek from Jomsom to the famous Annapurna Circuit. Jomsom is a popular starting point for the Annapurna Circuit trek, and you can continue your journey from there. This extension allows you to explore more of the stunning Annapurna region and its diverse landscapes.
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Based On 3 Reviews
Our trek to Upper Dolpo with Sherpa Expedition was an unforgettable journey that surpassed all our expectations. From the moment we embarked on the 28-day adventure, we were immersed in a world of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unparalleled hospitality. The guide provided by Sherpa Expedition was exceptional. His knowledge of the region was extensive, and his passion for the mountains was contagious. He not only guided us through the challenging terrains but also shared fascinating stories and insights into the local culture. His friendly and approachable nature made us feel comfortable and connected throughout the trek, creating a sense of camaraderie that added immeasurable value to our experience. The trekking team from Sherpa Expedition was a true delight to be around. Their professionalism, teamwork, and dedication were evident in every aspect of the journey. From organizing our accommodations and meals to ensuring our safety on the trails, they were always one step ahead, anticipating our needs and providing support when required. Their friendly and caring nature made us feel like a part of the Sherpa Expedition family, fostering a sense of belonging and making the trek even more enjoyable. The porters provided by Sherpa Expedition were instrumental in making our trek a success. Their strength and endurance were truly remarkable as they carried our heavy backpacks effortlessly. Their hard work and dedication allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the surroundings, without the burden of physical strain. We are immensely grateful for their assistance throughout the journey. The teahouses along the Upper Dolpo Trek were a pleasant surprise. Despite being in remote locations, they offered comfortable accommodations and delicious meals. The teahouse owners were warm and welcoming, treating us like family and making us feel at home in the mountains. It was a pleasure to relax in their cozy spaces, sharing stories with fellow trekkers and immersing ourselves in the local culture. The views during the trek were nothing short of breathtaking. From snow-capped peaks to turquoise lakes and verdant valleys, every step offered a new and awe-inspiring vista. The beauty of Upper Dolpo is truly unparalleled, and it left us in awe of the wonders of nature. In conclusion, we strongly recommend Sherpa Expedition for anyone seeking an unforgettable trekking experience in Upper Dolpo. With their excellent guide, friendly trekking team, helpful porters, comfortable teahouses, and the breathtaking views, they provide a journey that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
My trek to Upper Dolpo with Sherpa Expedition was a journey of a lifetime. From the moment I set foot on the trail, I knew I was in for an extraordinary adventure. The 28-day trek was filled with challenging terrains, cultural encounters, and natural beauty that surpassed my wildest expectations. The guide provided by Sherpa Expedition was not only knowledgeable but also friendly and approachable. He guided us through the rugged trails with expertise, ensuring our safety and comfort throughout the journey. His insights into the local culture and traditions added depth to our experience, allowing us to truly appreciate the rich heritage of the region. The trekking team from Sherpa Expedition was truly excellent. Their professionalism and dedication were evident in every aspect of the trek. From arranging our accommodations and meals to providing support on the trails, they went above and beyond to make our trek a success. Their friendly demeanor and genuine care for our well-being created a warm and welcoming atmosphere that made the journey even more enjoyable. The porters from Sherpa Expedition were incredibly helpful throughout the trek. They carried our heavy bags effortlessly, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the surroundings. Their strength and resilience were truly admirable, and we are grateful for their assistance in making our journey more comfortable. The teahouses along the Upper Dolpo Trek were a pleasant surprise. Despite being in remote mountainous regions, they offered comfortable accommodations and delicious meals. The teahouse owners were friendly and hospitable, making us feel at home even in the midst of the wilderness. It was a joy to relax in their cozy spaces and interact with fellow trekkers after a long day of hiking. The views during the trek were nothing short of breathtaking. From towering peaks to pristine lakes and verdant valleys, every turn offered a new and awe-inspiring panorama. The beauty of Upper Dolpo is simply indescribable, and words cannot do justice to the emotions evoked by the majestic landscapes. In conclusion, I strongly recommend Sherpa Expedition for anyone seeking a trekking adventure in Upper Dolpo. With their excellent guide, friendly trekking team, helpful porters, comfortable teahouses, and the unparalleled views, they provide an experience that will leave you in awe and longing for more.
We recently had the opportunity to embark on a 28-day trek to Upper Dolpo with Sherpa Expedition, and it was truly an extraordinary experience. From start to finish, the entire journey was filled with breathtaking landscapes, cultural encounters, and a sense of adventure that will stay with us forever. The highlight of our trek was undoubtedly the excellent guide provided by Sherpa Expedition. His extensive knowledge of the region, along with his friendly and approachable nature, made us feel comfortable and well taken care of throughout the entire journey. He not only guided us through the challenging trails but also shared fascinating insights into the local culture, traditions, and history, enriching our experience in every way. The trekking team from Sherpa Expedition was exceptional. They were not only skilled and experienced but also genuinely caring and attentive to our needs. From organizing our accommodation and meals to ensuring our safety on the trails, they went above and beyond to make our trek a success. We felt a strong sense of camaraderie with the team, which added to the overall enjoyment of the journey. The porters provided by Sherpa Expedition were incredibly helpful. They carried our heavy backpacks effortlessly, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the surroundings without any physical strain. Their hard work and dedication were truly commendable, and we are grateful for their assistance throughout the trek. The teahouses along the Upper Dolpo Trek were comfortable and welcoming. After a long day of trekking, it was a delight to relax in cozy accommodations, enjoy warm meals, and interact with fellow trekkers. The teahouse owners were friendly and hospitable, making us feel at home even in the remote mountainous region. The views during the trek were simply awe-inspiring. From snow-capped peaks to pristine lakes and lush valleys, every step of the journey offered breathtaking panoramas that left us in awe of Mother Nature's wonders. The beauty of Upper Dolpo is truly unparalleled, and we feel incredibly fortunate to have witnessed it firsthand. In conclusion, we strongly recommend Sherpa Expedition for anyone looking to embark on the Upper Dolpo Trek. With their excellent guide, friendly trekking team, helpful porters, comfortable teahouses, and the incredible views, they provide an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
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Sherpa Expedition and Trekking is one of the pioneers of Trekking, tour and expedition in Nepal which was established on January 07, 1977, with a motto: ‘Enhancing Tourism possibilities across the Globe’. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking is proud to be recognized as the fifth Trekking and Adventure company authorized by the Tourism Board of Nepal.
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