Upper Dolpo Trek - 28 Days

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, enjoying a variety of options to energize you for the day ahead. Sightseeing Tour in Kathmandu Valley, there is amazing Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square Swayambhunath Stupa, and many more. You can enjoy yourself with your lunch and can prepare for the trekking. Meet with your trekking guide for a final briefing session, reviewing the itinerary, trekking routes, safety precautions, and any last-minute updates. Address any concerns or questions you may have before embarking on the journey.

Early morning you will leave for the airport from the hotel. The flight duration is about 45 minutes from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. Nepalgunj Airport is a small domestic airport. You will find basic facilities along with transport to your destination after arrival. Once you reach Nepalgunj you can explore the local market, we will wait for another flight to Dolpo Jupal Airport. If the weather is not clear, then we will stay at Nepaljunj. This is like an extra day for the trips we will decide as per the situation.

We'll fly to Jhupal, Dolpo, then trek to Raktang. Flight from Nepalgunj to Jhupal will take around 35-45 minutes depending on the weather conditions. Upon arrival at Jhupal Airport collect your baggage and we will start to trek. You may want to spend a night in Jhupal or Dunai (the district headquarters, a short distance from Jhupal) to acclimatize and prepare for the trek. The trek starts with a short hike from Jhupal to Dunai, which usually takes 2-3 hours. Dunai is a good place to rest and stock up on supplies. The next major stop after crossing many villages and following the Thuli Bheri River will be at Tarakot, usually involving 5-7 hours of trekking. Once you reach Raktang, enjoy the beautiful and remote landscape. This area is less visited and offers a virgin trekking experience. Explore the surroundings of Raktang and overnight stay at the lodge.

To get from Raktang to the Amchi Hospital, which is in Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpo. The trek will take approximately 5-7 hours. Ratang is located approximately at 2,420 m and Amchi Hospital is around 3170 m height above sea level. Passing various villages and inhabited beautiful landscapes, the route follows the Thuli Bheri River. Continue following the Thuli Bheri downstream towards Dunai. The trail can get quite rugged and has some steep sections. You need to be conscious and prepared for sudden weather changes as one cannot predict weather conditions in the mountainous parts. Once You arrive at Amchi Hospital you will stay in the lodge and explore around the areas.

The trek from Amchi Hospital to Phoksundo Lake is a remarkable journey through one of the most remote and scenic regions of Nepal. Phoksundo Lake, situated in Shey Phoksundo National Park, maintains its crystal-clear turquoise waters and is incredibly beautiful. The trek duration will be 6-7 hours. Start your trek from Amchi Hospital. The trail ascends very gradually through picturesque villages and terraced fields. The Phoksundo Lake is situated around 3611 m above sea level. Trek through dense forests, then along the Phoksundo River. The trail goes through several ups and downs. Overnight stay at the hotel and explore around the Shey Phoksundo.

After a leisurely breakfast taken from your teahouse or campsite in serenity, proceed to Ringmo Village for a peek into the culture and traditions of the Dolpo people. It is here that you get a quintessential view of the way of life and the architectural style of the locals. Afterward, take a short hike to Tshowa Gompa, a 900-year-old Bon monastery resting on a ridge above the lake. One can also get a panoramic view of Phoksundo Lake and the surrounding mountains from Pungmo Monastery. The monastery is a very important religious site, it provides a cultural experience with great views.

Spend some time relaxing by the shores of Phoksundo Lake. Turquoise in color and surrounded by tranquility, this is an ideal spot to sit back, reflect, and rest. Take out your camera and snap the breathtaking scenery. It is a romantic lake, situated amidst a snow-capped peak and lush forests which provide plenty of photographic opportunities. You can have a picnic lunch. Take a gentle evening walk around Ringmo Village or along the lakeshore to stretch your legs and keep the body active. Overnight stay at a hotel and enjoy the cool environment.

From Phoksundo Lake to Phoksundo Khola, it would be a scenic and relatively easy trek via the beautiful landscapes of Shey Phoksundo National Park. You begin your trek from Phoksundo Lake after having a healthy breakfast. Leave the turquoise water behind as you head to Phoksundo Khola. It takes five to six hours of trekking time, and the altitude of Phoksundo Khola is 3,630 meters. The trail to Phoksundo Lake first traces the western bank, offering striking views of the lake itself as well as surrounding peaks. Leaving the lakeside, the route enters an even more forested area than before, with plenty of lush greenery, flora, and fauna. You reach Phoksundo Khola, opening the landscape into a beautiful valley. It is a tributary of the Suligad River. This area itself is actually quite tranquil and naturally beautiful. Thus, overnight stay at the hotel and relax in a beautiful cool environment.

Early start to the trek in order to make maximum use of the light during daytime apart from avoiding afternoon changes in the weather. Day treks from Phoksundo Khola to Snowfield Camp are challenging yet rewarding journeys through the remote and rugged terrains of Dolpo. Phoksundo Khola is 3,630 M. whereas the Snowfield Camp is 4,480 M. above sea level. The trekking time will take 5-6 hours. Spectacular views of the peaks surrounding greet one amidst the dense forests and alpine meadows on this trek.

The river's sound accompanies you as an addition to the serene ambiance of the trek. Nearer to Snowfield Camp, the landscape gradually reaches an alpine character with snowfields and glaciers glimpsing from a distance. The immaculate environment and towering peaks give a dramatic touch to your trek. You then enjoy the view of it the moment you step into the camp and overnight stay at the Camp.

Wake up early in the morning and after having breakfast, head out early, so that you cross the pass with enough daylight. The trek from Snowfield Camp, across Kang-La Pass to Shey Gumpa is a difficult and rewarding part of the trek. The trek will take around 8-9 hrs to reach the Shey Gompa. It is about 4,126 meters above sea level. The trail goes up steeply to Kambala Pass. The path could be quite uncomfortable, rocky at places, or snow blanketed in patches. Trekking poles are a must with suitable footwear.

As you ascend, you will get rewarding panoramic views of peaks and glaciers around you. A sense of isolation, the grandeur of the high Himalayas, is indeed overwhelming. You will be doing the Kang-La pass, which is approximately 5,380 m above sea level. Take a moment to rest and enjoy the breathtaking views from the top. The descent from the pass to Shey Gumpa will be a long one and can be exhausting. The route descends right into the Shey Valley via wild landscapes and alpine meadows. Once you reach Shey Gomba, the visit to an ancient and sacred monastery that is one of the major pilgrimage sites for Buddhists is known as the "Crystal Monastery." Overnight stay at Camp or Tea House.

Shey Gompa is a great place to rest and improves your acclimatization ability, which helps your body adapt to the altitude to enjoy both the cultural and natural beauty of this remote area. The day starts with a leisurely breakfast in the serene setting of Shey Gomba. Shey Gompa, also known as the Crystal Monastery, was to be explored this morning. This 11th-century-old ancient monastery is one of the centers of pilgrimage. It is not only the history and architecture that has made it an important place for a visit. More importantly, it is its spiritual significance to the local Dolpo people. Take a walk around the area where the mani walls and Chortens are considered so important in Tibetan Buddhism. These along with the host of prayer flags give an evocative sense of spiritualism.

After lunch, you can pack some lunch and take a light trek further up to Crystal Mountain, Shelri Sikkhad. It is considered sacred and a place of pilgrimage. Afternoon: You can click some pictures of the panoramic landscapes and the remnants of cultural spots visible around Shey Gumba. Afternoon sunlight can be good for clicks. Take a gentle evening stroll around to keep your body active, which will also help in acclimatization. Dinner and rest at the lodge or Camp.

From Shey Gumba to Namgung, the trekking via Sela Bhanjyang Pass is quite tiresome but equally fascinating because most of the route consists of hard geography. This section again crosses a high-altitude pass and commands a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscapes. Shey Gumba is 4,200 m whereas Namgung is 4,430 m. The estimated Trekking Duration will be 6-8 hours. Try to initiate the trek early in the morning and utilize daylight to avoid the potential weather changes in the afternoon at such high altitudes. The initial trail from Shey Gomba goes uphill in a gentle manner through the Shey Valley. This trail could be quite rough and requires some careful negotiations along it.

As you reach Sela Bhanjyang, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging while you ascend to Sela Bhanjyang Pass. The altitude increases and precipitous gradient demand judicious pacing and frequent stops. Reaching the summit of Sela Bhanjyang at about 5,095 meters above sea level is a decent achievement. From the pass, you are awarded views of the surrounding peaks, valleys, and possibly even glimpses of the Tibetan Plateau. From Sela Bhanjyang down to Namgung, it is a long descent and quite demanding on the knees. The path descends to rugged terrain, alpine meadows, and likely snow-covered parts, for which you would want to explore the path ahead. As you reach Namgung, you will be able to stroll around natural beauties with cool weather, offering awesome views.

Have breakfast in the morning and start your trek early in the morning so that the whole day can be utilized properly and the crisp mountain air is felt accordingly. Namgung to Saldang is a moderate trek that offers much of the beautiful scenery and culture one will encounter on an Upper Dolpo trek. Namgung is 4,430 meters, whereas Saldang is 3,770 m. The time it will take for trekking is around 4-5 hours. From Namgung to Saldang, the trail is not so difficult, having reached several cols with undulating ups and downs through some charming landscapes.

While making this upward trek towards Saldang, you might get to see some local villagers and their day-to-day activities. The place is pretty well regarded for its Tibetan culture. You might get to see mani walls, Chortens, and prayer flags along the route. Once you reach the Saldang Spend a full day at Saldang. You can pay a visit to the Saldang Monastery. After that, you can try mixing up with the local community and understand the customs and traditions of the people. Rest and enjoy the peace of this faraway village. Sal dang has the beauty to spend time among the unique Tibetan cultures of the Upper Dolpo region. Overnight at the lodge.

Start the early morning trek to take advantage of cooler temperatures and avoid having too little daylight during the trek. In the beginning, this trek from Saldang to Khoma Gain combines cultural experiences into one with scenic views, going through the beautiful and remote landscape of Upper Dolpo. Khoma Gaun stands at an elevation of 4,060 meters above sea level. It takes about 5-6 hours of trekking from Saldang to reach Khoma Gaun. The trail to Khoma Gaun from Saldang is graded as relatively moderate, with a few sections of gradual ascents and descents through diverse landscapes.

As you start with the trek, it will take you through small villages and hamlets that portray the traditional ways of life common among the people residing there. The region is so full of Tibetan culture, that one could see a number of mani walls, Chortens, and prayer flags lining almost every other point in the landscape. Arrive at Khoma Gaun, a small village with its monastery and row houses, showcasing typical Tibetan-style architecture. Take some time to roam around Khoma Gaun. Then, visit the local monastery, meet the villagers, and learn their culture and traditions. Overnight stay at a hotel/lodge and relax yourself.

Early morning start your trek to utilize the daytime as much as possible and to avoid the heat too. Starting Point Khoma Gaun is 4,060 meters and Mendo is 3,860 meters. The time it will take around 5-6 hours to trek. The trek is from Khoma Gaun in a gradual descent toward Mendo. It goes through a high-altitude landscape, passing along rocky paths, dry fields, and ancient traditional villages of Tibetans. Arriving in Mendo, you can visit the village to interact with the culture. Overnight at the lodge to relax from the exhaustive trek.

It's an awesome trail from Mendo to Tinje Goan. Starting Point: Mendo is approximately 3,950 meters and Tinje Gaun is 4,150 meters. The Estimated Trekking Duration is 6-7 hours. From Mendo at an altitude of about 3,860m, the path follows a gentle climb upwards to reach Tinje Goun, which lies at 4,150m altitude, taking almost 6-7 hours of estimated trekking time. It passes through various landscapes, including rocky terrain, alpine meadows, and traditional villages. Gradual ascent usually takes one through high-altitude landscapes of rocky hills, arid fields, and scenic views.

The path can be pretty rugged in sections, which requires careful navigation. Besides, you will be able to pass by small Tibetan villages and hamlets to see the traditional lifestyle of the locals. Commonly, one finds mani walls and prayer flags along this route. Once at Tinje Gaun, This is one of the bigger villages and settlements in Dolpo. It has traditional Tibetan architecture and some cultural vestiges. Take your time exploring the village of Tinje Gaun by visiting the local monastery, talking to villagers, and asking about customs and ways of living.

The trek from Tinje Gaun to Rakpa in the Upper Dolpo of Nepal is a rather adventurous journey through the remote and stunning landscapes. Tinje Gaun is about four,2 hundred meters above sea level, while Rakpa is probably barely higher, approximately 4,530 meters. The duration of the trek it takes is 7-8 hours. However, on the route, you will be rewarded with scenery that offers snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and high-altitude monasteries. The route also passes through far-flung settlements where you would be able to interact with the locals of the Tibetan ethnic groups and observe their rich culture and traditions.

Trekking from Cross Charka to Charka in Dolpo, Nepal, is an excellent journey through remote and untouched areas of the Himalayas. Cross Charkla this will be a starting point or a checkpoint alongside the path. It is probable that Cross Charka is(5,160 m.) a high mountain pass or a point from where the trek route crosses over to another valley or village. The height is about 4400 m. Above sea level. While on a trekking route through Dolpo, one may see awesome views of snow-filled peaks, deep valleys, and rugged topography. This panorama often gets dotted with alpine meadows, rhododendron forests, and glacial lakes, making an awe-inspiring backdrop grow along the journey. Overnight live at Charkla in the local lodge.

Trekking routes from Charkha to Norbulang present a trekking route through some of the remotest and most spectacular parts of the Himalayas in the Dolpo district of Nepal. Norbulang is situated at an altitude of about 4750 meters above sea level. This village marks a major stop in the Dolpo region, with the village highly redolent of its Tibetan culture amidst breathtaking views of the highlands. It will take approximately 6-7 hours depending on the weather conditions and physical fitness of the trekkers. The beautiful road from Charkla to Norbulang offers breathtaking views of the High Himalayas, snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and alpine meadows.

A little further ahead, you will also cross some very interior highlands where there is usually no sign of civilization. On the trail, you will find a stretch of steep and challenging terrain, it goes uphill and downhill. The region houses quite a few wild animals including blue sheep, Himalayan yak, and at times, the elusive snow leopard. Plants include mountain shrubs, wildflowers, and medicinal plants. From here onwards, after arriving in Norbulang, you start on a sightseeing tour to know the local culture and natural beauty. You will be staying overnight in the hotel/lodge.

Norbulung's acclimatization day is a vital activity before trekking on high altitudes to prevent altitude sickness and for more safety as well as making the journey enjoyable. Norbulung is about four thousand seven hundred and fifty meters above sea level. Take a day hike to a higher elevation and then return to sleep at Norbulung to acclimatize to the lower oxygen higher up. To accomplish this, find a nearby hill or ridge. Take the opportunity to see the countryside around Norbulung. Sometimes this may be as easy as taking a walk to nearby overlooks or as complicated as investigating local trails. Whenever possible, take some time to spend with the residents of Norbulung. This is a very rewarding experience, and one feels a sense of insight into their way of life and of living. Take time to explore around and unwind during this one-day relaxation stay at the lodge.

After breakfast, head on to your journey towards Lower Sangda La from Norbulang, which is a heartily exquisite ride through the highlands with breathtakingly beautiful sceneries and cultural interaction. Lower Sangda La stands at about 4500 meters above sea level. Norbulang is a common campground in high altitudes where trekkers hang around for acclimatization. It is a place that offers spectacular views and tranquil grounds to lay your body before finally embarking on the journey. The journey from Norbulang to Lower Sangda is typically a day's journey based on the speed at which you go and the climatic conditions. It takes close to 6-8 hours of travel uphill here.

This route follows the path of coming down from Norbulang, which would be comfortable at high altitudes but will take you through high altitudes where crossing a river and mountain meadows can be crossed, and it is going to be challenging due to steep and rocky terrain. Expect to be surrounded by impressive mountain scenery with snow-capped peaks and vast valleys. The trek today offers plenty of photo opportunities, as well as time to look around and appreciate the remoteness of Dolpo. Once you reach Lower Changda, accommodations will be provided at the hotel.

The trek from Lower Sandala to Sandala La (Sangda la Cross) within the Dolpo region is a challenge, promising great rewards once the trekkers commit to the trek at high altitude. This segment of the trek requires crossing over a high mountain pass that treats the eyes to breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding Himalayas. Lower Sangda La is about 5,460 meters above sea level. And Sangda La Pass, it's about 5,460 meters above sea level. Lower Sandala is a common tenting site for trekkers and provides a base to prepare for the climb to Sandala Pass.

Hence, the trek from Lower Sandala up to the top of Sangda La Pass and down on the other side usually takes all day, about eight hours, contingent upon the conditions and pace of the walk. You will be able to witness breathtaking views from the top of the Sandala Pass of the surrounding peaks, valleys, and even possibly some remote glaciers. Moreover, It's a perfect viewpoint for having pictures and being amazed at the grandeur of the Himalayas. At Singda La, take time to rest and relax your body from the long tiring trek.

After breakfast, early morning start the trek in order to make full use of daylight and cool temperatures. This exciting expedition in the far-flung and rugged region of the area involves the trek from Sandala to Lower Sangda. Sandala is 4,200 meters. And Lower Canada, on the other hand, is 3,800 meters. This trek will take about 6-7 hours. The trail from Sandala to Lower Sangda involves a descent through a very high-altitude landscape, rocky trails, alpine meadows, and traditional villages.

Hence, the trek is a gradual descent leading one through a variety of topography: rocky hills, sprawling valleys, and picture-postcard alpine meadows. The trails can be pretty rugged and require careful negotiation. You will also cross several small Tibetan villages and hamlets while trekking. You catch a glimpse of the ancient life of the inhabitants here. You'll see several mani walls and prayer flags along your way. You can rest at the local inn at Lower Sandala after you reach there.

Start the trek after having your breakfast and enjoy the moment with great mountain views: cool weather, fantastic sunrise view. Lower Sangda to Dhagrjun trek duration will take around 6-7 hours. Dhagrjun ending point is 3290 m. above the sea level. From Lower Sangda to Dhagrjun, the route consists of one descent through various topography, including rocky roads, forests, and local villages. It includes a gentle, staggered descent from Lower Sangda through open areas, forests, and field terraces. At many spots, the trail is rough and calls for crossing with due care. When you reach there, try to wander around Dhagrjun. Talk to villagers, see local sites, and learn about their traditions and daily life. Use this time to rest, acclimatize, and see the calm surroundings of Dhagrjun.

Start your journey after breakfast, the roads from Dhagarjun to Jomsom descend steeply, with a variety of terrain including rocky roads, forests as well as traditional villages The journey from Dhagarjun to Jomsom will take around 7-8 hours, depending on passengers and weather conditions. Dhagrajun is 3,290 m where while Jomsom is 2,720 m. above the sea level. The trek has a gradual rise from Dhagrajun, passing through different zones. You'll pass rocky hills, thick forests, and even terraces. You will cross small villages and hamlets where the rural way of life is dominant among the people. You find walls painted with flowers and prayer flags everywhere. Upon arrival, Jomsom is the major city in the Mustang region with beautiful scenery and a gateway to Annapurna and Mustang regions. Take a rest from the long journey via night stay at the hotel 19th Century.

The journey from Jomsom to Pokhara is truly the road that goes through the Kali Gandaki Valley, through villages such as Marfa, Tukuche, and Tatopani, offering a great show of the local culture and landscapes. Of course, this can be bumpy and long. It will also take 7-8 hours by road depending on the weather and road conditions. The distance between Jomsom and Pokhara is about 155 km. It also flies you over in 25 minutes. You are transferred to a hotel immediately upon arrival at Pokhara for rest and dinner after a long journey. You also have time to visit Pokhara and its surroundings like Lakeside.

Early morning, have breakfast and get ready to drive to Pokhara airport. However, this flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu is very scenic. The plane follows a route that offers panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks, verdant hills, and also terraced areas. It will take approximately 25-30 minutes. Note: Flights are often delayed/canceled due to bad weather. Thus, it is often helpful to have some flexibility in travel plans. Then arrive in Kathmandu you will be transferred to the hotel for rest and lunch. Free afternoon to explore the city and go shopping around the local market.  At evening farewell dinner, overnight stay in hotel. 

Pack your luggage, keeping in mind baggage restrictions imposed by your airline. Please pack any souvenirs or items that you have purchased during your stay in Nepal. Remember to put important documents like your passport, visa, and flight tickets in a safe and accessible place. Hence, we will arrange and confirm your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Safe journey till we see you the next time Namaste.