Upper Dolpo Trek - 27 days

Upper Dolpo Trek - 27 days


The Upper Dolpo Trek is an epic, adventurous trekking destination that leads you to the most remote areas of mid-western Nepal. It is among the best off-beaten trekking routes in Nepal and lets you experience both the natural and cultural richness of the Lower and Inner Dolpo Region. 

During your Upper Dolpo trek itinerary, you'll witness a very isolated and unspoiled region beyond the Himalayan valleys of Nepal. The unparalleled beauty of the diverse landscape, high pass trails, turquoise Shey Phoksundo Lake, centuries-old Shey Gompa, Bon Gompa, Yanjer Gompa, and ancient Buddhist Bon religion are some major highlights of this trek.

The adventurous Dolpo trek begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Juphal. From Juphal, passing through the amazing settlements of Dunai, Chhepka, and Chunuwar (Amchi Hospital), you reach tranquil Phoksundo Lake, one of the prominent features of the Upper Dolpo trekking region. It is the high altitude and deepest lake in the country. The beauty of the turquoise lake is simply breathtaking! 

The magnificent trail crosses through the Shey Phoksundo National Park behind Mt. Dhaulagiri towards the Tibetan plateau. This isolated and serene wild natural reserve is also home to a great variety of wildlife. The far western Upper Dolpo region is also famously called the hidden kingdom of Nepal. On the trail, you can witness the ancient trans-Himalayan trade route. 

After a wonderful stopover at Ringmo village around the pristine Phoksundo Lake area, the trail moves to Shey Gompa. It is indeed another highlight of the Upper Dolpo trip. The trail traverse through impressive high passes of Nagdalo La (also called Kang La Pass), Sela La, and Chhoila La, from where you'll get some of the most mind-blowing vistas of river valleys and magnificent panorama of snow-capped mountains.

Further exploring the remote landscape, you continue your trek towards Dho Tarap Valley. It is one of the highest settlements on the planet. Dho and Tarap are two significant villages situated in this remote valley. While it's no secret that the Upper Dolpo trek route is an eye-catcher, what you may not know is how fascinating local Dolpo people are. You'll witness their self-sufficiency and learn about their proud Bon religion. In fact, you'll find a truly rustic lifestyle strongly influenced by Tibetan culture and tradition. 

Spending an excellent time at Dho Tarap valley, you'll come across Langa Camp and pass through villages such as Sisaul, Toltol, Nawarpani, Laisicap, Tarakot, Lawan, Dunai and retrace back to Juphal and fly back to Kathmandu through Nepalgunj. Finally, spending nearly four weeks in the wilderness of the Trans-Himalayan region of Nepal, you'll get back to your home, and the trip concludes. 

How Much Does This Trip Cost?

The trip's price depends on the type of services chosen by our clients and the group size. The cost of each trip we organize is different because we see travelers as individuals having their own particular needs and preferences.

Get ready for an incredible journey tailored to your interests and preferences, whether you're looking for a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious getaway. Leave the planning to us as we take care of all the details, ensuring your dream trip becomes a reality. You can relax and focus on creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.

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Trip Highlights

  • Explore some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu; Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square
  • Thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Juphal and Nepalgunj
  • Trekking within Shey Phoksundo National Park, the largest and only Trans-Himalayan national park in Nepal
  • Spot some elusive wildlife such as Snow Leopard, Blue Sheep, Goral, Himalayan Thar, Himalayan Black Beer, etc
  • The trail allows you to experience the grandeur of Nepal's rugged and remote far western region
  • An isolated trekking path leads to the high Himalayan valleys such as Shimen, Tinje, Tokyu Gaon, etc
  • Walk around fascinating remote and wildest parts of far north-western Himalayas of Nepal
  • The spectacular sight of Suligad/Phoksundo waterfall, the highest waterfall in Nepal 
  • Visit the 900-years old Tshowa Monastery
  • Old trans-Himalayan caravan trail of Nepal and Tibet
  • Relish in the beauty and tranquility of the Shey Phoksundo Lake
  • Experience the spirituality of the holy Shey Gompa
  • Crossing exciting high passes over Kangla/Nagdalo La, Sela La, Chhoila North Pass and reach impeccable Upper Dolpo region
  • Visit ancient Buddhist Bonpo monastery, Yanjer Gompa
  • Enjoy the magical vistas of snow-capped peaks such as Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Kanjrowa, and Crystal Mountain Range
  • Explore the remote Dho Tarap valley, influenced by Tibetan culture
  • Tour around different monasteries including Dewa, Mekhyim, Dhoro, and Shipchaur Gompa
  • Excursion of Namgung Monastery in Namgung village
  • Learn about the ancient Bon Po, Pre-Buddhist religion

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - Transfer to Hotel
Day 2 Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trip Preparation
Day 3 Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m/490ft) - 1 hour flight
Day 4 Fly to Juphal (2,500m/8,200ft) and Trek to Dunai (2,850m/9,350ft) - 3 to 4 hours trek
Day 5 Trek from Dunai to Chhepka (2,687m/8,815ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 6 Trek from Chhepka to Chunuwar (Amchi Hospital) (3,000m/9,850ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek
Day 7 Trek from Chunuwar to Phoksundo Lake (3,600m/11,811ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 8 Acclimatization Day at Phoksundo Lake
Day 9 Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Sallaghari (3,630m/11,910ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 10 Trek from Sallaghari to Nagdalo La HC (4,717m/15,480ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 11 Trek from Nagdalo High Camp to Shey Gompa (4,500m/14,770ft) via Nagdalo La Pass (5,350m/17,552ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 12 Trek from Shey Gompa to Namgung Gompa (4,360m/14,310ft) via Sela La Pass (5,100m/16,740ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek
Day 13 Trek from Namgung Gompa to Saldang (3,770m/12,370ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek
Day 14 Day Hike from Saldang to Yanjer Gompa (4,590m/15,060ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek
Day 15 Trek from Saldang to Komash Village (4,060m/13,320ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek
Day 16 Trek from Komash Village to Shimen (3,850m/12,630ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 17 Trek from Shimen to Tinje (4,110m/13,490ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 18 Trek from Tinje to Yak Kharka (4,040m/13,260ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek
Day 19 Trek from Yak Kharka to Tokyu (4,240m/13,910ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek
Day 20 Trek from Tokyu to Dho Tarap (3,944m/12,940ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek
Day 21 Trek from Dho Tarap to Nawarpani (3,475m/11,400ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 22 Trek from Nawarpani to Laisicap (2,775m/9,110ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 23 Trek from Laisicap to Dunai (2,850m/9,350ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 24 Trek from Dunai to Juphal (2,500m/8,200ft) - 2 to 3 hours trek
Day 25 Fly from Juphal to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj - 1:30 hours flight
Day 26 Free Day in Kathmandu
Day 27 Final Departure from Kathmandu

Route Map

Upper Dolpo Trek Route Map Upper Dolpo Trek Map

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - Transfer to Hotel

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, meet a representative from Third Rock Adventures at the International Airport and transfer to the hotel. After check-in at the hotel, you can take some rest. Later, you can stroll around to visit nearby places or local streets. There are a plethora of excellent restaurants and cafes in Kathmandu for hangouts.

Overnight stay in Kathmandu. 

Day 2
Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trip Preparation

Swayambhunath stupa Swayambhunath stupa

Enjoy your hearty breakfast, and go sightseeing of cultural world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley. The vibrant capital city hosts some major tourist attractions like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (famous as Monkey Temple), the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, and the largest Boudhanath shrine. 

After completing sightseeing, you'll attend a small meeting where your tour guide will brief you about the upcoming trekking plans. After that, you can head towards the hotel and prepare for the trek. Also, you can spend some time on important trek shopping (if needed).

Overnight stay in Kathmandu. 

Day 3
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m/490ft) - 1 hour flight

The Upper Dolpo Trek adventure starts with a short and scenic flight to Nepalgunj city, one of the main terai cities of Nepal. Upon reaching the Nepalgunj, you'll get to the hotel. The rest of the time you can explore the city and get familiar with the local culture, and even you can try some street food.

Overnight stay in Nepalgunj. 

Day 4
Fly to Juphal (2,500m/8,200ft) and Trek to Dunai (2,850m/9,350ft) - 3 to 4 hours trek

Juphal Airport Dolpa Juphal Airport Dolpa

You'll catch an early flight to Juphal from Nepalgunj. Then, enjoying the breathtaking scenery of green hills with the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range, you'll land at Juphal airport in the Dolpo region. It is the only airport in the Dolpo district that connects local people to other parts of countries. From Juphal, the Upper Dolpo Trek commences with a short walk to Dunai. Lies on the bank of the Bheri river, a small village, and the district headquarter of the exotic Dolpo region.

Overnight stay in Dunai.

Day 5
Trek from Dunai to Chhepka (2,687m/8,815ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

From Dunai, you'll begin your hike from Dunai to Chhepka. At first, you'll enter the Sulighat post, where you'll get your Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit. On the way, there are a couple of villages and majestic mountain views to admire. Eventually, the trail goes through a densely forested area, and you reach Sulighat. Gradually, you'll ascend Thuli Bheri Valley and enter into Phoksundo River Valley. 

Initially, you'll follow the trail alongside Phoksundo River to Kageni. Today, you'll walk on rocky terrain and come across many small water streams. Besides continuing your walk through lush forest areas, you cross mid-hill villages like Jutung and Shyangta. After crossing the bridge over the confluence Phoksundo Khola and Maiba Khola, you head north towards Chhepka. 

Overnight stay in Chhepka. 

Day 6
Trek from Chhepka to Chunuwar (Amchi Hospital) (3,000m/9,850ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek

Following the famous Lower Dolpo Circuit trail, you approach Amchi Hospital, which lies on the other side of the river. You cross the bridge over Phoksundo Khola twice and continue walking on an isolated path to Rechi (3,011m/9,880ft).

Further, from Rechi, you proceed to Suligad Dovan, where you cross the bridge over the Phoksundo Khola. After this, you reach Amchi Hospital, where still the doctors are following the traditional methods and using herbal medicine to treat the local people of Dolpo.

Overnight stay in Chunuwar.

Day 7
Trek from Chunuwar to Phoksundo Lake (3,600m/11,811ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

Shey Phoksundo Lake Shey Phoksundo Lake

Today, the real adventure begins as you head to Phoksundo Lake, the world's deepest magical lake. Passing through the forest of Cedar, you'll reach Polam Village (3,397m/11,145ft). Gently ascend a ridge, and soon you'll discover the captivating views of Phoksundo Lake. In addition, you'll see the alluring sight of Nepal's highest Suligad/Phoksundo Waterfall. Continuing the walk, you arrive at a Tibetan Buddhist settlement of Ringmo, lying next to Phoksundo Lake. 

Overnight stay in Ringmo Village. 

Day 8
Acclimatization Day at Phoksundo Lake

Your adventure to Upper Dolpo would not be complete without exploring Shey Phoksundo Lake, an utterly beautiful turquoise lake. Next, you can visit the Tshowa Monastery (900-year old Bonpo monastery) at the east bank of Phoksundo Lake. After exploring the Lake area, you can wander around Ringmo village, where you'll get a close insight into Bon's religion, a unique and primitive culture of Bon people. 

Overnight stay in the Ringmo Village. 

Day 9
Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Sallaghari (3,630m/11,910ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

After spending a lovely day around Phoksundo Lake this morning, you'll journey down to Sallaghari. Your hike continues along the western bank of the lake. Following an uneven isolated trail, you'll enter a more remote part of the Dolpo region. As you reach the westernmost edge of the lake, the path follows a lush meadow. After crossing the floodplain area of Phoksundo River, you reach Phoksundo Khola camp. Eventually, the few hours of the walk lead you to the beautiful Sallaghari surrounded by dense pine forests. 

Overnight stay in Sallaghari.

Day 10
Trek from Sallaghari to Nagdalo La HC (4,717m/15,480ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

You continue north this morning, towards the Nagdalo High Camp. You gradually ascend a remote trekking trail and enjoy some enchanting views of snow-capped mountains. Then crossing the river over the bridge, the trail stretches to an open campsite. Finally, after a few hours of a climb to the top of the ridge, you'll enjoy the astonishing view of Kangla/Nagdalo La Pass. 

Overnight stay in Nagdalo La High Camp. 

Day 11
Trek from Nagdalo High Camp to Shey Gompa (4,500m/14,770ft) via Nagdalo La Pass (5,350m/17,552ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek


Today will be one of the remarkable days of Upper Dolpo Trek. The reason is, you'll trek down one of the high passes of the Dolpo region, i.e., Kangla/Nagdalo La Pass. This is a challenging pass to cross, though it offers the best way to soak in the entire Dhaulagiri mountain range views. 

Crossing this high pass, you'll enter into Inner Dolpo and head down to Shey Gompa. The village welcomes you with red and white chorten and mani stones. The trail leads you through the most epic landscapes you'll ever witness. So, prepare yourself for an adventure of a lifetime!

Once you arrive at Shey Gompa, you can explore the monastery and its surroundings. Located at the base of Crystal Peak, Shey Gompa is the major attraction of the Dolpo trek. Also known as Crystal Monastery, it belongs to the Chaiba community, the followers of Saint Padmasambhava. 

Overnight stay in Shey Gompa. 

Day 12
Trek from Shey Gompa to Namgung Gompa (4,360m/14,310ft) via Sela La Pass (5,100m/16,740ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek

A hearty breakfast in Shey Gompa fuels you for the long trekking towards Namgung Gaon via Shey La Pass. The top of the pass grants you magical vistas of snow-clad mountain peaks. However, the rewards don't stop there; on the way to the Namgung Gaon, you'll get the best views of the Tibetan Plateau. Furthermore, you'll turn northside and hike to the pastures of Namgung. It consists of a few stone houses and a famous Namgung monastery. 

Overnight stay in Namgung Gaon. 

Day 13
Trek from Namgung Gompa to Saldang (3,770m/12,370ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek

Chortens at Saldang Chortens at Saldang

From Namgung, you'll take a hike to another beautiful settlement of Saldang. Traversing through the Namgung Khola and taking a steep uphill walk, you reach Saldang. You'll witness some of the old salt trade routes. It is the largest settlement in Inner Dolpo and generally comprises five separate villages. 

Overnight stay in Saldang. 

Day 14
Day Hike from Saldang to Yanjer Gompa (4,590m/15,060ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek

Yanjer Gompa Yanjer Gompa - Oldest Monastery in Dolop, the monastery is also referred as Margom Yangzer

Yanjer Gompa is the destination of the day. Today, you'll further head north, following the gradual path of a few ups and downs along the Nagao Khola. En route, you come across several small settlements like Tiling and Kigaon. Finally, after few hours of walk, you reach Yanjer Gompa. It is an ancient Bon-Po Monastery. You can explore the monastery and the village. Then you can get back to Saldang, retracing the same rugged path. 

Overnight stay in Saldang. 

Day 15
Trek from Saldang to Komash Village (4,060m/13,320ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek

Saldang village Saldang Village, Dolpo

After exploring the ancient Bon Po monastery, today, you'll head towards the Tibetan village of Komash. As you continue your walk along the Raphya river, you'll pass through small stupas, mani walls, and chortens. After walking on a steep trail for few more hours, you reach the final destination of the day, Komash Village.  

Overnight stay in Komash Village. 

Day 16
Trek from Komash Village to Shimen (3,850m/12,630ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

After having early morning breakfast at Komash, you'll begin your trek towards Shimen. Today, you'll witness a landscape similar to the highland desert. You may also spot some rare animals like a snow leopard or blue sheep. Enjoying the captivating view of snow-capped peaks and surroundings, you arrive at Shimen. This small settlement hosts Shimen Gompa, another ancient monastery. 

Overnight stay in Shimen. 

Day 17
Trek from Shimen to Tinje (4,110m/13,490ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

From Shimen, you'll take the route towards Tinje. Along the way, you'll come across Shimen Gompa and Pu Gompa. Following the GHT High route, you walk along the side of Panjyan Khola you reach Sonmagaon. Further, keep walking till you pass Taragaon and get to Tinje. Rest you can explore this beautiful settlement. There is a natural airstrip, and at one time, British aircraft had landed and taken off here.

Overnight stay in Tinje Village.

Day 18
Trek from Tinje to Yak Kharka (4,040m/13,260ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek

The journey continues towards Yak Kharka, following the trail beside Panjyan River. Move forward to the small village of Chhamdang, and the route leads to the confluence of Chholtam Khola and Panjyan Khola. Then you cross the bridge over Thalum Khola, flowing from Thalum Lek. The path gets into an alpine pasture, Yak Kharka. You can see the yaks and sheep grazing around the land. 

Overnight stay in Yak Kharka. 

Day 19
Trek from Yak Kharka to Tokyu (4,240m/13,910ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek

You start the trek by crossing the bridge over Sulun Khola. The trail moves along the riverside, and after crossing small streams several times, you arrive at Chhoila North Pass (5,050m/16,570ft). As you reach the top of the pass, you'll find impressive views of the Dolpo region and the surrounding mountains, including the north face of the Dhaulagiri massif. You continue your walk on a rugged trail towards Tarap valley and reach Tokyu Gaon. This small village hosts Tokyu monastery belonging to the Chaiba sect. 

Overnight stay in Tokyu Gaon.

Day 20
Trek from Tokyu to Dho Tarap (3,944m/12,940ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek

Dho Monastery Dho Monastery

Passing through varied terrain, you'll make your way to Dho Tarap, the highest settlement area in the world. Today's trek involves an entirely downhill walk on plain land, so it's pretty easy than the other day. Continue your walk along the riverside through a grassy land. You'll witness a slight difference in trekking route than the other parts of the inner Dolpo. 

After few hours of walk, you reach a Magar settlement of Dho Tarap. It is also the main junction that connects the trail to Jomsom, Mustang, and Tibet. You can observe Tibetan-style houses with small wooden windows and flat roofs. Also, you'll see colorful prayer flags, small Gumbas, chortens, and Mani stone walls that are beautifully scattered throughout the village. While exploring the village, you get a chance to interact with the locals. You'll get to know about their remote culture and lifestyle.

Overnight stay in Dho Tarap.

Day 21
Trek from Dho Tarap to Nawarpani (3,475m/11,400ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

Tarap Valley Tarap Valley

Enjoying a fabulous day at Dho Tarap, you move towards Nawarpani (Pibuk). You'll begin with a downhill walk and come across the junction of Tarap Khola and Mirbubane Khola. Keep on walking and cross the bridge over Klang Khola, and you arrive at Langa Camp (4,010m/13,160ft). Furthermore, the trail continues through Tarap Khola’s bank and passes several villages like Sisaul, Ghyamghar, Toltol, and reach Nawarpani. 

Overnight stay in Nawarpani. 

Day 22
Trek from Nawarpani to Laisicap (2,775m/9,110ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

Today, the trail descends beside the Tarap River. Walking along the riverbed for a while, you'll pass a narrow valley. You'll notice a slight difference in the trekking trail as you step on the forested area and crossing Laina Odar you arrive at Chhedhul Gompa. You move ahead alongside the Tarap Khola you get into Laisicap. 

Overnight stay in Laisicap.

Day 23
Trek from Laisicap to Dunai (2,850m/9,350ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

From Laisicap, you commence your walk along the shore of Thuri Bheri Khola. After a while, you reach a bridge and cross it to get into Tarakot. Further ascending along the river, you reach Lawan and then Byasgadh. Finally, the trail becomes easy, and you cross another hanging bridge and eventually climb to Dunai. 

Overnight stay in Dunai.

Day 24
Trek from Dunai to Juphal (2,500m/8,200ft) - 2 to 3 hours trek

After completing a long but rewarding trek today, you'll be back to Juphal from where your adventure started. It is a short and easy walk from Dunai to Juphal. Begin your hike on a flat trail along the Thuli Bheri River. The trail passes through terraced fields and reaches beautiful small settlements to Juphal. 

Overnight stay in Juphal.

Day 25
Fly from Juphal to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj - 1:30 hours flight

First, you take an early morning flight back from Juphal to Nepalgunj, and from there, you again fly to Kathmandu. Once you reach a hotel in Kathmandu, it is entirely up to you what you want to do next. You can spend your day relaxing or strolling the nearby places. 

Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 26
Free Day in Kathmandu

Your domestic flight might get delayed or canceled due to bad weather conditions or technical glitches. In this case, it's wise to have an extra day in Kathmandu to avoid any problems with flight delays and cancellations. If you don't get any of these issues, you can savor your entire day exploring the Kathmandu valley and its surroundings. Also, after long weary treks, you can even go for spa treatments and relax, refresh and rejuvenate yourself. 

Overnight stay in Kathmandu. 

Day 27
Final Departure from Kathmandu

The Upper Dolpo Trek concludes with the final flight to your home. A representative from Third Rock Adventures will drop you at the Kathmandu International Airport to depart from Nepal.  

However, if you wish to extend your vacation, we can arrange the most happening adventurous treks, cultural tours in Nepal and neighboring countries like India, Tibet, and Bhutan. 



Best time for Upper Dolpo Trek

Like many other trekking routes in Nepal, the best time for the Upper Dolpo Trek is the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these seasons, you'll encounter pleasant weather with good mountain views and clear skies. Also, there is a minimal snowfall at the high altitude pass, so there is no risk of crossing passes during these seasons. 

Besides, Monsoon/Summer (June to August) is an excellent time to trek in the Upper Dolpo region. As most of the Dolpo trail lies in the rain shadow of the massif Dhaulagiri Range, it receives little or no rain. Likewise, temperatures during this time are ideal. However, in the lower regions such as Juphal, Nepalgunj you might encounter flight delays and cancellations due to monsoon weather. 

Upper Dolpo Trek Difficulty Level 

The Upper Dolpo Trek difficulty level is difficult to challenge. However, it is a very adventurous journey to an unexplored and isolated Dolpo region. The trail offers you a tremendous off-the-beaten trekking experience. Well, the shortest days will be around 3 hours long, while the longest days can reach up to 8 hours on the trek.

Basically, your Upper Dolpo journey starts at an altitude of 150m/490ft from Nepalgunj city. The trail will include several uphill and downhill walks on the steep, rugged, and uneven path. Ultimately, the isolated trek path crosses three high passes (Kangla/Nagdalo La, Sela La, and Chhoila La) over 5,000m/16,404ft, each offering stunning views. 

Thus, walking in higher elevations is more physically demanding. However, if you're in excellent health with good physical fitness and have a positive attitude, you can successfully complete the trek. Past trekking experience would be an asset but no compulsorily required for this trip. 

Upper Dolpo Trekking Permits

As the Upper Dolpo region lies in a restricted trekking region of Nepal, you need special trekking permits such as; 

  • TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System) USD 10 per person
  • Lower Dolpo Restricted Trekking Permit- USD 20 per person (For First Week) and USD 5 per person (Additional Days)
  • Upper Dolpo Restricted Trekking Permit- USD 500 per person (First 10 Days) and USD 50 per person (Additional Days)
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit- USD 30 per person (no time limit)

Upper Dolpo Trek Route Variations

The Dolpo is one of the most beautiful and remote trekking regions that lie in the far-western of Nepal. Several Upper Dolpo Trek Route Variation combines the Dolpo trail with the neighboring Himalaya trekking trail. With these trek route variations, explore the wilderness and undiscovered land, an entirely hidden paradise in the world. Here are a few best alternative treks that lead you to Upper Dolpo and other unexplored corners of Nepal's restricted areas. 

1. Upper Dolpo to Mustang Trek

The Upper Dolpo to Mustang Trek is an awe-inspiring remote trekking trail in Nepal. The 22 day long trek offers you to experience the diversified culture of two different trekking regions, i.e., Dolpo and Annapurna. After exploring the Inner Dolpo area, such as Phoksundo Lake, Shey Gompa, the trail leads you to Jomsom. It is the main headquarter of the famous Mustang District. The trekking route is quite sometimes without human settlement. Thus, you'll get a thrilling trekking experience in isolated, remote, unspoiled, and off-the-beaten areas.

2. Phoksundo Lake Trek

Phoksundo Lake Trek is a short version of the Upper Dolpo trek. It will take around 10-11 days to complete the trek. Shey Phoksundo Lake is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of the Dolpo Trek. Located within the Shey Phoksundo National Park, the region is home to a wild variety of elusive flora and fauna. Thus, whether you're going for Lower Dolpo Trek or Upper Dolpo Trek, make sure to explore around and relish the beauty of the tranquil lake and its surroundings. 

3. Upper Dolpo to Rara Traverse Trek 

Enthralling Upper Dolpo to Rara Traverse Trek leads you to two of Nepal's most stunning high altitude lakes, i.e., Phoksundo Lake and Rara Lake. The trek begins from the barren yet beautiful landscape of Dolpo and ends in the equally stunning Mugu District. More than three weeks itinerary will be part of the newly opened east to west Great Himalayan Trail. Throughout the trek, meet different people with different lifestyles, religions, cultures, and traditions.

4. Upper Dolpo to Upper Mustang Trek 

Upper Dolpo To Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal's most adventurous and challenging high altitude treks. Both Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang are restricted trekking regions of Nepal. Dolpo region lies between the Dhaulagiri range and Tibetan Plateau. At the same time, Upper Mustang lies between the rain shadow area of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Phoksundo Lake, Shey Gompa, Dho Tarap Valley, Forbidden Kingdom of Lo Manthang, Muktinath, Jomsom, etc., are some major highlights of the 32 days-Upper Dolpo to Upper Mustang trek. 


Images:  Franck Zecchin, Flickr

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Based on 4 reviews


Latest Trip Reviews

Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.

Josh Lloyd
flagsUnited Kingdom
Apr 13, 2021

Challenging Dolpo Trek

Great trek with Third Rock Adventures. My guide had been waiting eagerly to welcome us in the airport until we arrived. Our guide was like a friend from far away. He was so comfortable to work with and with all his knowledge of the local people, culture, and literally everything, we had much more than expected from the trek. He kept us motivated on the trek and was happy to walk at our pace. He also made sure that we were doing good with altitude sickness at all times. The trek ended one day later after the scheduled itinerary but Third Rock was flexible enough to organize accordingly. The beauty of Phoksundo lake is inexplicable. We were standing in awe, dancing on our own. Spend more time at the lake immersed in its beauty. Our food and room were already booked and dealt with before we arrive at the hotel. The trek was challenging but our guide guarded us against any complications and hard time. We were really lucky to have him on this adventure. We are grateful to the company for this adventure and incomparable service. Thanks again.
Gabriel Todd
flagsCanada
Feb 17, 2019

trek on the off-path

It was an amazing trek to Dolpo and the lake Phoksundo and Shey monastery with Rishi. Rishi was a knowledgeable and friendly guy. We get along with him on the first day itself. He would make us smile and cheer us up every time we reached popular destinations like the lake and monastery. It was great time with him. We visited 900-years old Tshowa Monastery and enjoyed breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Kanjrowa, and Crystal Mountain Range. The region was full of natural beauty and wonders. We had some of the insane photography that our friends back in the home will freak out. Thanks Third Rock Adventures for this amazing amazing trip. We can't thank you enough.
Josh Chapman
flagsUnited States of America
Oct 24, 2018

A Lifetime Trek

Though the trek was a bit longer, I absolutely enjoyed the trek to the fullest, all thanks to my wonderful guide Babu, who went through ups and down every day to keep me entertained. I have to say this: he is just like what is written of him on the website. The trek took me to some of the remote areas but was beautiful. The Dolpo region is less-explored and less talked of on the websites and even YouTube, and in this regard, this region deserves a lot of attention. The stunning landscapes, high-altitude lakes, centuries-old gompas, and amazing local people and their culture are the highlights of this trek. I loved turquoise Shey Phoksundo Lake, and crossing the high passes was a great experience. I also visited the ancient Buddhist Bonpo monastery, Yanjer Gompa. The views of mountains (as explained by the guide) Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Kanjrowa, and other mountains took my breath away. I never had a chance to embrace the views like that. It was really breathtaking views of the mountains. Overall, the trek was more than I expected. Thanks to Third Rock for this wonderful adventure, I will treasure it for a lifetime.
Sam May
flagsUnited States of America
Oct 17, 2018

Perfect Holiday

We can’t thank Naba and his team enough for working out on our trip to Dolpo and lake Phoksundo. Our guide Dol was exceptionally informative and knowledgeable about the place and the local culture. We got to local foods and get along with some Nepali friends. We enjoyed around 4 weeks in the Dolpo region of Nepal. The trek was one of a kind, and we are hoping to visit Nepal soon. Thanks again Team, you did a wonderful job.
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