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Nepal
28 Days
$4,100
This trip includes
Ground transportation in Nepal
Hotels & tea-house accommodation
All meals except in Kathmandu
Local flights cost covered in itinerary
Guided tour & trek throughout the trip
The Upper Dolpo Trek is a remarkable adventure in the remote region of Dolpo, located in western Nepal. This trek takes you through a pristine wilderness, untouched by modernization, and offers breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and a glimpse into the traditional life of the Dolpo people.
1. Remote and Pristine Wilderness: Dolpo is one of Nepal’s most remote and least explored regions. It is a hidden gem that has retained its natural beauty and remains untouched by modern development. The trek takes you through dramatic landscapes, including deep gorges, high passes, turquoise lakes, and barren plateaus.
2. Shey Phoksundo Lake: The trek includes visiting Shey Phoksundo Lake, one of the highest-altitude lakes in the world. This stunning lake is known for its crystal-clear waters that change color throughout the day, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush green forests. It is a mesmerizing sight that leaves trekkers in awe.
3. Unique Culture and Traditions: The Upper Dolpo region is inhabited by ethnic Tibetan communities, and the local culture and traditions are deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism. You can witness the distinctive Bon and Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags, and chortens (stupas) along the way. Interacting with the friendly Dolpo people gives you an insight into their traditional lifestyle and hospitality.
4. Phoksundo Waterfall: Another remarkable natural wonder in the region is the Phoksundo Waterfall. It cascades significantly, creating a spectacular water display amidst the rugged terrain. The combination of the waterfall, the surrounding mountains, and the lush greenery is a sight to behold.
5. Crossing High Passes: The Upper Dolpo Trek involves crossing high passes, offering breathtaking panoramic Himalayas views. The major passes along the trek are the Kang La Pass (5,240 meters) and the Numala Pass (5,360 meters). These challenging but rewarding sections provide stunning vistas of the snow-capped peaks and surrounding landscapes.
6. Unique Wildlife and Flora: Dolpo is known for its diverse wildlife and unique flora. The region is home to the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan blue sheep, musk deer, and various species of birds. The trek allows you to spot some rare and endangered species in their natural habitat.
7. Authentic Dolpo Villages: The trek takes you through several traditional Dolpo villages, such as Ringmo, Saldang, and Dho Tarap. These villages are nestled in picturesque valleys and offer a glimpse into the ancient way of life of the Dolpo people. You can witness their traditional houses and terraced fields and experience their warm hospitality.
8. Ancient Monasteries: Upper Dolpo is dotted with ancient monasteries and gompas with great religious and cultural significance. The Shey Gompa, situated at the base of Crystal Mountain, is one of the region’s oldest and most revered monasteries. It houses ancient Buddhist artifacts and murals and offers a serene atmosphere for meditation and reflection.
Many years ago, farmers and nomads from Tibet became the only people to settle in this hidden land, which means that even today, it is one of the least habited places on earth. In fact, according to Legend, it is one of the only ‘hidden valleys‘ to be explored by Guru Rinpoche and is now seen as a refuge for devout Buddhists and those with an exceptionally pure mind.
During your trek to this mysterious land, you can expect to explore one of Nepal’s most adventurous trekking routes. After landing in the bustling Capital, you will take two flights to Jhuphal (Lower Dolpo) and begin your adventure with a trek to Dunai. From here, you will continue your journey for three days before reaching the stunning Phoksundo Lake and marveling at its crystal-clear waters. After some rest, you will then go on to see some of the highest and most renowned mountains in the Himalayas. However, it is not just nature that you can expect to be amazed by. This trek is packed full of culture – with many visits to infamous Gompas and remote villages peppered throughout. This trek immerses you in the ancient traditions that shroud the region.
The Upper Dolpo Trek usually takes around 25 to 30 days and starts from Juphal. During the trek, you will get to see Phoksundo Lake, ancient monasteries like Shey Gompa, and culturally rich villages. You will also cross high mountain passes, including Kang La and Shey La while experiencing the unique culture of Dolpo. The trek ends in Juphal, offering a profound exploration of the remote and scenic landscapes of Upper Dolpo.
The cost of the Upper Dolpo Trek can vary depending on a few factors, such as the duration of the trek, the inclusions, and the chosen trekking agency. On average, this trek can cost anywhere from $4000 to $6,000, which should cover permits, guides, accommodation, meals, and transportation. To ensure a great experience in the remote and culturally rich Upper Dolpo region, it’s recommended that you choose a reliable trekking company that offers a detailed cost breakdown and prioritizes your safety.
The ideal time to go trekking in Upper Dolpo is during late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is stable, and the temperatures are moderate, making it the perfect time to explore the region’s pristine landscapes, unique culture, and diverse flora and fauna. Additionally, the trails are easily accessible, ensuring an optimal trekking experience in Upper Dolpo.
The Upper Dolpo trek is fully customizable and can be done as either a teahouse or a camping trek. This trek is not considered strenuous due to the lack of exposure to high altitudes, making it suitable for trekkers for most of the year. The Dolpo Trek is a challenging and remote adventure that offers trekkers unparalleled natural beauty, cultural richness, and a sense of adventure. It is truly an off-the-beaten-path experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Upper Dolpo Trek is challenging, mainly due to its remote location, rugged terrain, and high altitudes. Trekkers need to climb steep ascents and descents, and they must cross challenging mountain passes like Kang La and Shey La. Moreover, the trek has limited infrastructure, and the weather is unpredictable, which adds to the difficulty. To conquer the challenges of Upper Dolpo, trekkers must ensure proper acclimatization, physical fitness, and prior trekking experience.
If you plan to trek in the Upper Dolpo region of Nepal, you will need to obtain a special permit from a registered trekking agency. Additionally, you must acquire the Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit and Restricted Area Permit. It is crucial to adhere to all regulations when exploring this culturally significant and remote area.
For more information about the Itinerary, trek difficulty, or trek cost, please get in touch with our friendly team, who are always happy to help. Or you can visit our blog if you would like to read what it’s like to embark on such an adventure. And don’t forget – if you like the sound of this trek but it isn’t quite what you had in mind, then we have a wide range of Everest trekking packages available to explore!
Day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02
Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trip Preparation
Day 03
Fly Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, 1-hour flight
Day 04
Fly to Juphal (2,500m)+ Trek to Dunai (2,850m) - 3 to 4 hours trek
Day 05
Trek to Chhepka (2,687m) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 06
Trek to Chunuwar (3,000m) - 6 to 7 hours trek
Day 07
Trek to Phoksundo Lake (3,600m) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 08
Acclimatization Day at Phoksundo Lake
Day 09
Trek to Sallaghari (3,630m) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 10
Trek to Nagdalo La HC (4,717m) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 11
Trek to Shey Gompa (4,500m) via Nagdalo La Pass (5,350m) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 12
Trek to Namgung Gompa (4,360m) via Sela La Pass (5,100m) - 6 to 7 hours trek
Day 13
Trek to Namduna Gaun - 4 to 5 hours trek.
Day 14
Day Hike to Saldang Village 4 to 5 hours trek
Day 15
Trek to Yangze village - 6 to 7 hours trek
Day 16
Trek to Namdo village - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 17
Trek to The Jeng La pass - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 18
Trek to Tokyu (4,240m) - 6 to 7 hours trek
Day 19
Trek to Dho Tarap (3,944m) - 4 to 5 hours trek
Day 20
Rest Day in Dho Tarap
Day 21
Trek to Tarap Khola- 6 to 7 hours
Day 22
Trek from Dho Tarap to Khanigaon- 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 23
Trek to Tarakot- 4 -5 hours
Day 24
Trek to Dunai (2,850m)- 5 to 6 hours
Day 25
Trek from Dunai to Juphal (2,500m/8,200ft) - 2 to 3 hours trek
Day 26
Fly from Juphal to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj
Day 27
Fly back to Kathmandu
Upper Dolpo Trek is Nepal’s most prolonged, remote, and strenuous trek. So, naturally, it is also the most expensive trek in Nepal. The Upper Dolpo Trek Cost by MyEverestTrip costs $4495. The most significant part of this cost goes for the staff who accompany you, i.e. the guide, porter, and the food. Also, it includes the domestic flight to Jhupal, Dolpo Permit Cost worth a lot, and accommodation. We might have to set camps in many parts, and all those trekking gears also cost a lot. In addition to this $4495 Cost of the Dolpo Trek package, you will need about $500 of your own.
Well, it is not cheap. But we can say that it’s worth it. After all, this Upper Dolpo Trek will be an utterly rejuvenating journey for you.
Per MyEverestTrek Upper Dolpo trek Itinerary, we stop at Phoksundo, Shey Gompa, and Dho Tarap for acclimatization. These acclimatization days will prevent you from the risk of altitude sickness. Also, you must drink enough water and keep yourself hydrated. Also, eat nutritional foods, stroll, and take a lot of rest. However, if such symptoms get prominent, walking down to a lower altitude is wise. Helicopter rescue is needed if the case gets worst. Thus, it’s recommended to have Travel Insurance before you book your trek to Nepal. The insurance should cover all the rescues up to 6000 meters above sea level.
Check tour Everest View Trek for an easier Journey.
Yes, instead of visiting Dolpo and getting back to Dunai, the trekkers can also get to Jomsom from Dolpo. Dolpo and Mustang lie pretty apart. Can’t we join Jomsom from Dolpo in about seven days? The trail to Mustang separates from Dho Tarap, the highest settlement in the world.
The itinerary for Upper Dolpo to Jomsom trek is the same for the 12th day until we enjoy a rest day in Shey Gompa. Then, we take a slightly different route from Day 13.
Day 25: Trek to Jomsom (2800) 4 hour
Day 26: Fly to Pokhara, then connecting flight to KTM
Firstly, you will need your Visa to Nepal, which can be issued at the Airport upon arrival. Nepal’s tourist visa is issued for 15, 30, and 90 days, costing $30, $50, and $125, respectively. It can also be given within minutes at any other entry point in Nepal.
Next, you need a special Upper Dolpo Trekking Permit to hike in the restricted region of Dolpo. The trek must be booked via a licensed company like Mystic Mountain Treks, and you must walk in a group of two people and a guide. An individual cannot issue a license. But an agency might help you get the authorization if you are a solo traveler. Besides the Dolpo permit, you also need a Shey- Phoksundo National Park license.
Lower Dolpo permit costs USD 20/per person for the first seven days. An additional USD 5 per day is needed for the extended stay. This permit is required inside Thulibheri Municipality and Shey Phoksundo Rural Municipality. Next, you need an Upper Dolpo restricted area permit. This permit is necessary to enter Dolpo Buddha, Charka Tangsong, and Shey Phoksundo Rural Municipality. This Dolpo Trek permit costs USD 500 per person for the first week and USD 50/per day after that. This permit can only be issued in the Department of Immigration, Kalikasthan, and Kathmandu. The government (immigration department) gives the restriction permit to check the uncontrolled flow of tourists in Dolpo and control the invasion of foreigners into the local’s culture.
Then, it would be best if you had Shey-Phoksundo National Park Permit. This can be published at the gate of the National Park at USD 30 per person. This money for the National Park permit goes for the conversation of the rear flora and fauna in the region.
The northwest of Nepal, behind the Dhaulagiri range, is Nepal’s most remote area. The trail was only opened for visitors in 1989 and remained a restricted area. A month-long journey in a land without houses, internet, or electricity is not a joke. The experts have marked the Upper Dolpo trek difficulty as “Challenging.” And this is among Nepal’s most demanding and longest trekking trails. That being said, the rewards are astounding! And you must be aware of the difficulties you face during this Dolpo trek.
Difficulty due to Upper Dolpo distance and duration: Dolpo trek package is 28 days long. Trekking for a month and being detached from all worldly pleasures demands considerable commitment. We will walk for 20 days, covering 250kms to 300kms around the distance. Walking more than 12-15 km in such steep mountains is demanding. You will walk 5-6 hours daily, up to 9 hours, while crossing the high passes.
Difficulty due to Upper Dolpo elevation: The biggest challenge for trekking to Upper Dolpo is its altitude. We begin the walk from Jhupa, which lies below 2000 meters and climb to the Kang La Pass elevation of 5360 meters. We will be gaining almost 500 meters every day. Once you cross Dunai, you will likely be victimized by altitude sickness (every one in three trekkers develops altitude sickness in Nepal). Therefore, you must look for symptoms like headache, body pain, vomiting, shortness of breath, etc.
Upper Dolpo has three kinds of accommodation depending on the season and route. The first one is hotels in Kathmandu. You will be staying in three-star hotels in Kathmandu that are pretty luxurious with all the necessary amenities. You will stay in tea houses in the lower region- small yet comfortable local lodges. The rooms only have two single beds, a mattress, pillows, and a clean white sheet. In the higher region, few clubs might be closed most of the year.
We can observe three kinds of Culture in Dolpo- Lower, Upper, and Middle Dolpo. The Hindus inhabit the lower region, while the middle area blends Hindu and Buddhist people (Bonism and Shamanism). A cluster of the Magar people speaks the typical “Kaile” language. The Upper region of Dolpo was home to the Buddhist and Bon cults. Tibetan Buddhism has driven the culture of these “Dolpo-pa.” The people speak the ‘Khaam’ or ‘Poike’ language and strictly follow their culture. Bönpo monasteries such as Shey Gompa are the foremost destination for pilgrims aiming for the circuit trek. The salt trader first used this trail, and the story was depicted in the movie called “Himalaya” by Eric Valli. During the summer, this route has been a trade route for “Yarchagompa” (caterpillar fungus). You can also be a part of the unique Festivals of Upper Dolpo. Check Cultural tours of Nepal.
MyEverestTrip is a Nepalese Travel and Trekking Agency based in Kathmandu. We have been operating in different trekking regions for over a decade, traveling with hundreds of travelers worldwide.
With the pure intention to bring trekkers to Nepal’s safety and comfort, we have an entire team of travel planners, guides, and porters. We also have connections to hotels and restaurant lines all over Nepal to ensure that our trekkers get the best possible facilities.
So, here is the reason why you should travel with MyEverestTrip.
We have designed a well-planned Itinerary for all travel destinations around Nepal. However, this Itinerary is customizable as per the needs and requests of our trekkers. Just let us know when and how long you are staying so we can arrange the rest.
Although all travel agencies claim to have a good guide, many are not informed about the place you are traveling to. However, MyEverestTrip has its licensed guide in Nepal. They have been working in this field for over three decades, collecting all the information about the place/ culture and learning to keep the travelers safe. Also, our guide is good at the English language. We can even hire a guide who can speak Chinese and other European languages for trekking in Nepal upon special request.
MyEverestTrip has been known for its very economic trek packages in Nepal. You can compare the price we offer with any other travel agency in Nepal and only book with us if you are satisfied with our cost. We try to include all needed expenses during the tour so that you will not be overwhelmed with hidden expenses after the packages are booked.
Obviously, the safety of our trekkers and team is the utmost priority of MyEverestTrip. Our guide and porters who shall accompany you for the trip will have their insurance. We also encourage Travel insurance for our trekkers. Our treks and trips have been so designed that you only walk an appropriate distance. In any case of emergency, you will always have our back.
MyEverestTrip operates with the belief in responsible tourism. This includes
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