Upper Dolpo Trek
Upper Dolpo Trek is a remote and challenging trek in the far western region of Nepal. It is considered one of the most remote and culturally preserved regions of Nepal, and the trekking route takes you through the heart of the Himalayas. The trek is an excellent opportunity to explore the unique culture, customs, and lifestyle of the Dolpo people, who have lived in the region for centuries and have preserved their traditions and way of life.
The trek starts from Juphal, a small town in the Dolpa district of Nepal, which can be reached by a short flight from Kathmandu. The route takes you through beautiful landscapes, including high mountain passes, deep valleys, and pristine alpine lakes. The trek is also an opportunity to see rare wildlife such as the snow leopard, musk deer, and blue sheep.
The Upper Dolpo region is known for its ancient Buddhist monasteries, which are an integral part of the Dolpo people’s culture and religion. The trek takes you through several villages where you can witness their daily lifestyle and learn about their traditions and beliefs. The people of Upper Dolpo are primarily followers of the Bonpo religion, which is an ancient religion that predates Buddhism.
One of the highlights of the Upper Dolpo Trek is visiting the Shey Phoksundo National Park, which is home to the Phoksundo Lake, one of the deepest and most pristine lakes in Nepal. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, making it a breathtaking sight. The park is also home to several endangered species of flora and fauna, including the blue sheep and the snow leopard.
The Upper Dolpo Trek is a challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness and experience in high altitude trekking. The trek involves crossing several high mountain passes, including the Kang La Pass at an altitude of 5,360 meters. The trek also involves camping in remote locations, which adds to the adventure.
Outline Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu
Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
Day 3: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal and trek to Dunai (2,850m)
Day 4: Trek from Dunai to Tarakot (2,537m)
Day 5: Trek from Tarakot to Laini Odar (3,370m)
Day 6: Trek from Laini Odar to Nawarpani (3,545m)
Day 7: Trek from Nawarpani to Do Tarap (4,090m)
Day 8: Rest day in Do Tarap
Day 9: Trek from Do Tarap to Numa La Base Camp (4,440m)
Day 10: Trek from Numa La Base Camp to Danigar (4,230m) via Numa La Pass (5,360m)
Day 11: Trek from Danigar to Yak Kharka (3,850m)
Day 12: Trek from Yak Kharka to Sangda Phedi (4,410m)
Day 13: Trek from Sangda Phedi to Sangda (3,710m) via Sangda La Pass (5,160m)
Day 14: Trek from Sangda to Phalegaon (3,700m)
Day 15: Trek from Phalegaon to Jomsom
Day 16: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara
Day 17: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 18: Departure
Itenerary
-
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu
Upon arrival at Kathmandu, you will be picked up from the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the city and rest.
-
Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
You will take a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a town in the southern region of Nepal. This flight takes around an hour. You will spend the night in Nepalgunj.
-
Day 3: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal and trek to Dunai (2,850m)
You will take a morning flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal, which is a small town in the Dolpa district. From Juphal, you will start trekking towards Dunai, which is the district headquarters of Dolpa. The trek takes around three to four hours.
-
Day 4: Trek from Dunai to Tarakot (2,537m)
Today, you will trek from Dunai to Tarakot. The trail follows the Bheri River, and you will pass through several villages along the way.
-
Day 5: Trek from Tarakot to Laini Odar (3,370m)
Today’s trek takes you through the narrow gorge of the Tarap River. The trail is steep and challenging, but the views are spectacular.
-
Day 6: Trek from Laini Odar to Nawarpani (3,545m)
Today’s trek is relatively short and takes around three to four hours. You will pass through several villages and see stunning views of the mountains.
-
Day 7: Trek from Nawarpani to Do Tarap (4,090m)
Today’s trek takes you to Do Tarap, which is a remote village in the Upper Dolpo region. Along the way, you will see several ancient monasteries and chortens.
-
Day 8: Rest day in Do Tarap
Today is a rest day in Do Tarap, and you can explore the village and visit the local monasteries.
-
Day 9: Trek from Do Tarap to Numa La Base Camp (4,440m)
Today’s trek takes you to Numa La Base Camp. The trail is steep and challenging, but the views of the mountains are breathtaking.
-
Day 10: Trek from Numa La Base Camp to Danigar (4,230m) via Numa La Pass (5,360m)
Today is a challenging day, as you will cross the Numa La Pass, which is the highest point on the trek. From the pass, you will see stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You will then trek down to Danigar.
-
Day 11: Trek from Danigar to Yak Kharka (3,850m)
Today’s trek takes you through several villages and along the banks of the river.
-
Day 12: Trek from Yak Kharka to Sangda Phedi (4,410m)
Today’s trek takes you to Sangda Phedi, which is the base of the Sangda La Pass.
-
Day 13: Trek from Sangda Phedi to Sangda (3,710m) via Sangda La Pass (5,160m)
Today is another challenging day, as you will cross the Sangda La Pass. From the pass, you will see stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You will then trek down to Sangda.
-
Day 14: Trek from Sangda to Phalegaon (3,700m)
Today’s trek takes you through several villages and along the banks of the river.
-
Day 15: Trek from Phalegaon to Jomsom
Today’s trek takes you through the Kali Gandaki valley, which is the deepest gorge in the world. You will pass through several villages and see amazing views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
-
Day 16: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara
Today, you will take a morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, which is a beautiful lakeside city in Nepal. You will spend the rest of the day exploring the city and relaxing.
-
Day 17: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Today, you will drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, which takes around six to seven hours. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel.
-
Day 18: Departure
Today is the last day of the trek, and you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.
Full Board
Cost Includes:
Cost Excludes:
BC Service
Cost Includes:
Cost Excludes:
Price per person
Usefull Information
Inclusions:
- Trekking permits (such as the Dolpo Restricted Area Permit)
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card
- All necessary government taxes and fees
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Accommodation in tea houses or camping (depending on the itinerary)
- Experienced trekking guide and porters
- Transport to and from the trek starting/ending point
- First aid kit
Exclusions:
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Accommodation, meals, and transportation in Kathmandu (before and after the trek)
- Travel insurance (required)
- Personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, and souvenirs
- Tips for guide and porters
- Any additional expenses or activities not mentioned in the itinerary
FAQs
-
What is the Upper Dolpo Trek?
The Upper Dolpo Trek is a trekking route that takes you through the remote and pristine landscapes of Dolpo, a region located in the northwestern part of Nepal. It offers stunning views of the Himalayas, unique Tibetan culture, and encounters with traditional Bon Buddhist communities.
-
How long does it take to complete the Upper Dolpo Trek?
The duration of the Upper Dolpo Trek varies depending on the itinerary chosen and individual hiking speed. Typically, it takes around 20 to 30 days to complete the trek, including acclimatization days and exploration of the region.
-
When is the best time to do the Upper Dolpo Trek?
The best time to trek Upper Dolpo is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making for ideal trekking conditions.
-
Do I need any special permits for the Upper Dolpo Trek?
Yes, trekkers need to obtain special permits for the Upper Dolpo Trek. You’ll require a Restricted Area Permit for Upper Dolpo, which can be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.
-
Is the Upper Dolpo Trek difficult?
Yes, the Upper Dolpo Trek is considered to be a challenging trek. Trekkers should be physically fit, experienced in high-altitude trekking, and prepared for long days of walking through rugged terrain and high passes.
-
Are there any altitude-related concerns on the Upper Dolpo Trek?
Yes, altitude sickness is a concern on the Upper Dolpo Trek, as you’ll be trekking through high-altitude regions. It’s important to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness. Trekkers should ascend gradually and be prepared for changes in altitude.
-
What are the accommodation options on the Upper Dolpo Trek?
Accommodation options along the Upper Dolpo Trek include camping and basic teahouses/guesthouses in some villages. Camping is often necessary in remote areas where lodging facilities are limited.
-
What is the cultural experience like on the Upper Dolpo Trek?
The Upper Dolpo region is culturally rich, with traditional Tibetan Buddhist communities practicing the ancient Bon religion. Trekkers have the opportunity to visit remote monasteries, interact with locals, and witness unique cultural practices and festivals.
-
Are there any side trips or attractions along the Upper Dolpo Trek?
Yes, there are several side trips and attractions you can explore during the Upper Dolpo Trek, including visits to Shey Gompa, Phoksundo Lake, and the remote villages of Ringmo and Dho Tarap.
-
Best Seasons spring -
Duration 18 days -
Trek Difficulty Moderate
Trip Fact
Quick Inquiry
Leave a Reply