Max. Altitude
5370m.
Best Season
Oct -Dec & March-May
Activity
Trekking
Start / End Point
Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Overview of Upper Dolpo Trekking
The Upper Dolpo trekking begins at the northwest region behind the Dhaulagiri massif, towards the Tibetan plateau. The Upper Dolpo trek route passes through the most isolated remote areas of western land. Dolpo, a land beyond the Himalayas, conjures up visions of mysterious monasteries, snow leopards, and blue sheep. The traditions and way of life have remained intact in the Dolpo Region for decades.
Upper Dolpo is a region of mystical beauty. And its remoteness adds to the sense of adventure among its visitors. The customs and traditions here are quite similar to those of Tibet. It is one of the restricted trekking regions of Nepal. It offers rare opportunities to explore many unseen parts of the region. Referred to as "The Forbidden Kingdom" in its own terms, it happened to be closed to foreigners. It requires a special permit. The abundance of Himalayan wildlife, including Musk Deer, Himalayan Blue Sheep, and rare Snow Leopard, makes it an Eco-trek destination as well.
Trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, about 45 minutes, and the next morning flight ends at Jhupal. The trail passes through numerous gigantic mountain ranges over the Numa La pass (5,190m/17,028ft), till you reach Phoksundo Lake at Ringmo village inside the Phoksundo National Park.
After a day's rest, one can continue on the trail, crossing different passes to Jumla. The main highlights of the trek are ancient, spectacular landscapes, the mesmerizing Shey Phoksundo Lake, the isolated villages of Ringmo, and the centuries-old monasteries.
Phoksundo is the deepest lake of Nepal with its 145m depth according to a survey by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology. Like centuries-old Buddhist monasteries (which is known as Shey Gompa), wildlife, pristine lakes, soaring peaks, and people's lifestyle of the least developed region are also other attractions of the trek. Here is a holy mountain called “Crystal Mountain” which is why, each year, hundreds of pilgrims travelers visit the upper Dolpo region and make a circuit of the mountain.
Upper Dolpo Trekking Itinerary
01
Arrive in Kathmandu
After you land at Tribhuvan International Airport, our company representative will warmly greet you. He will take you to the hotel we have reserved for you in Kathmandu.
You can then take some time to relax. Our team member will then explain briefly about your domestic flight the following day. He will also briefly explain the trek, and precautionary measures in case you feel altitude sickness. Our team will then prepare all the required permits needed for our Upper Dolpo Trek.
If you have leisure time, we recommend you stroll around the nearby streets of your hotel. Get some exposure to the city life. We recommend you retire early as we will take an early morning flight to Nepalgunj the next day.
Maximum Altitude
1400 m
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodations
3 Star Hotel
Transportation
30 min drive to Hotel
02
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
After breakfast, our guide will take you to the domestic terminal of Tribhuvan International Airport in a private car. We will then take a flight to Nepalgunj which takes approximately 40 to 50 minutes. Our guide will then transport you to the hotel in the city.
Nepalgunj is a vibrant and colorful city resembling our neighboring country India. You can take our guide or you can stroll around the town on your own in colorful rickshaws. Do visit the famous Bageshowri temple. This temple is one of the significant Hindu temples of Nepal.
Maximum Altitude
150m.
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodations
3 Star Hotel
Transportation
45 mins
03
Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal, trek to Chhepka
After an early morning breakfast, we will head to Nepalgunj airport to take a flight to Juphal. It takes only 35 minutes to reach Juphal by flight. As soon as you land in Juphal, you can see the contrast between Nepalgunj and this quaint little village. Juphal is located amid the Himalayas, embracing you with its chill atmosphere.
Our trek now begins from Juphal. We will walk down a small path among agricultural fields, descend Kalagauda, and reach the tranquil Thuli Bheri River. We will move forward and reach a small town named Dunai, where we will take a lunch break. We will now cross the Dhim bridge, around a 99 m-long iron suspension bridge. It is also an entrance gate to the Shey Phoksundo National Park (SPNP). Here, the checkpost will check our permits.
We will now continue along the Phoksundo River trail. As we progress on this trail, we will pass several small villages, such as Kageni, Jutung, and Shangta. We will now cross a bridge over the confluence of Maiba Khola and Phoksundo. We will then head to North and reach Chhepka where we will stay at one of the unique local guest houses for the night.
Maximum Altitude
Chhepka (2,838m)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
35m flights / 6hr trek
Accomodations
Local Guest House
04
Trek to Amchi Hospital
We will have early breakfast, after which we will begin our trek to reach Amchi Hospital. As we progress along our journey, we will traverse through some beautiful pine, fir, larch, and birch forests. Our path is a typical Nepali landscape alternating between uphill climbs and downhill descents. We will also encounter numerous local people with their mules or yaks. After about 4 hours, we will reach the renowned caping site Rechi. There is also a tea shop where we will stop for lunch.
After much-needed rest, we will walk for 2 hours to reach Chunuwar. Near Chunuwar is Amchi Hospital, which practices traditional Tibetan medicine to heal local people. We will call it a day at one of the guest houses of the region.
Maximum Altitude
3110m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
6 hrs walk
Accomodations
Local Guest House
05
Trek to Ringmo/ Phoksundo lake
Today is a relatively short hike so we will slow our pace today. Along the trail, we will come across Nepal’s highest waterfall known as the Phoksundo or Suligad waterfall. The waterfall stands at a height of 167 m. We will also have the first magnificent view of Phoksundo Lake.
We will eventually arrive at Ringmo a small charming village, which sits at an altitude of 3,600 meters. So it makes sense that you deliberately set a leisurely pace because of the high altitude. The small village of Ringmo is located directly on Lake Phoksundo. The village offers a glimpse of various chortens and mani walls representing the Buddhist culture of the region. For the night, we will be setting up the camp in Phoksundo lakeside.
Maximum Altitude
3600m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
5-6 hrs walk
Accomodations
Camping
06
Acclimatization day
We have set aside this day for acclimatization to prepare our bodies for the upcoming altitude gains. After breakfast, you can explore Phoksundo Lake and Ringmo Village. Get to know the people of Ringmo, observe their unique culture, and enjoy their hospitality. You can also visit Bon Monastery called Tshowa which is a statue of the religion’s founder, Tonpa Shenrab Miwoche. The monastery is 900 years old so you can study the ancient Nepali and Tibetan culture.
You can also rest along the peaceful shores of the serene Phoksundo Lake. As the day draws to an end, we will return to the campsite we have set the day before.
Maximum Altitude
3600m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
5-6 hrs walk
Accomodations
Camping
07
Trek to Chunemba
Today we will be entering the restricted area of Inner Dolpo. Our path will lead up along the Demon Trail made famous by the movie Caravan. We will ascend a ridge and traverse a dark green pine forest. From here, we will have a view of the magnificent 6085 m high Norbung Kang.
We will now slowly descend and take a break for lunch. We will now ascend a wide valley and cross some streams. We will have a splendid view of Kanjirowa Himal (6612 m) en route. we now arrive at Chuneba or Lakeside camp, an alpine area decorated with fragrant junipers. Here we will set our camp for to spend a night.
Maximum Altitude
3630m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
5 hrs walk
Accomodations
Camping
08
Trek to Snowfield Camp
We will resume our trek to Inner Dolpo today also. We will walk through a path narrowed by the high rock walls on both sides. A further 30-minute walk will again bring us to another narrow gorge. From here, we will have a long steep climb. Eventually, we will reach the Snowfield Camp christened by Peter Mathieson in his famous book The Snow Leopard. We will settle for the night by setting up a camp here.
Maximum Altitude
4400m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
7 hrs walk
Accomodations
Camping
09
Trek to Shey Gompa via Kang La
Our trek today is going to be a bit demanding as we ascend to our first destination Kang La aka Ngadra La. We have to climb hard along a dusty path for about 2 and a half hours. Most of the time, the path is covered by snow so you must secure your footing. Our hard labor will be rewarded by the extraordinary views of the valley, flowing rivers, and majestic mountains on top.
Our descent from Kang La begins now, characterized by an initial 45-minute steep descent. Afterward, a gradual descent of 3 hours will ease your stride. On the way you can see numerous sacred prayer flags,chortens, and mani walls offering a glimpse of Buddhist tradition. You will eventually reach the small village of Shey Gompa distinguished by houses made of stones and colorful monasteries. We will set up a camp at this village and will spend the night under the clear starry sky.
Maximum Altitude
Kang La (5375 m)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
6 hrs walk
Accomodations
Camping
10
Trek to Namgung via Shey La
Today we will cross another five-thousander pass, the Shey La. The path leads through a valley and over wide plains up to the top of the pass. When visibility is good, you can see the white, over 6,800-meter-high Kanjirowa mountain to the west, which rises imposingly. The descent leads over scree switchbacks to Namgung or Luri Gompa, which lies at the foot of impressive rocks. This is where we set up our tented camp for the night.
Maximum Altitude
Shey La (5000 m)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
6 hrs walk
Accomodations
Camping
11
Trek to Sibu (4200m) via Saldang (4060 m) 7-8 hrs
After breakfast, we will walk on the trail above the Namgung Khola. On the way, we can visit the monastery of Dolpo Tulku. Afterward, a 3-hour stage takes us over an extensive mountain range to Saldang. Here we can take a tour of the interesting village. Maybe we can visit the large Saldang Gompa with the Tibetan medical center. Here we will rest for our lunch.
We will now resume our journey following the Namgung Khola. We will traverse various local settlements such as Namdo. The similar path adorned with chorten, prayer flags, and mani walls will take us to Sibu, where we will set up a tent for our overnight stay.
Maximum Altitude
Saldang (4060 m)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
7-8 hrs walk
Accomodations
Camping
12
Trek to Lagmo Che (4570m) 4 hrs
Today is an easy trek of 4 hours only, so we will slow our pace and walk on the path alongside the serene river. We will traverse the small village of Raka. After this, we will come across a large inhabited valley.
Sometimes, blue sheep and snow leopards can welcome you on the path. After about 2 hours of walking, you have to climb steeply to reach Lagmo Che known as the base camp for climbing to the Jeng La. Overnight stay at tented camp.
Maximum Altitude
4570 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
4 hrs walk
Accomodations
Camping
13
Trek to Tokyu via Jeng La
We will begin our trek early morning after breakfast. We will climb about 2 hours from Lagmo Che to reach Jeng La. From the top, a spectacular view of Dhaulagiri and other Himalayas will captivate your senses. Following this mesmerizing encounter, we will slowly descend to reach Tarap Valley. Here we will take a short break or our lunch.
We will now resume our hike till we reach Tokyu. The village is known to be the highest human settlement in the world. It is also renowned for the Monastery that features the statue of Maitreya, regarded as the future Buddha.
Maximum Altitude
Jeng La 5110 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
7 hrs walk
Accomodations
Camping
14
Trek to Sisaul Village (3,750m) via Dho Tarap (4080 m) 6hrs
About a 2-hour walk from Tokyu will take us to Dho Tarap. On the way, we will run into the prestigious Cristal Mountain School run by French Ngo for Dho children. After 30 minutes, we will arrive at Dho Tarap, where we will pause for lunch. Simultaneously, you can devour the beauty of this village and its fields cultivated with barley, wheat, and potatoes.
We will now traverse through the passage furnished with mani walls and shortens. After passing the Tarap Khola, vegetation changes to a landscape blanketed with luscious green grass. After a short ascent, we will reach Sisaul, where we will stay for the night at one of the guest houses.
Maximum Altitude
Dho Tarap (4080 m)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
6 hrs walk
Accomodations
Guest House
15
Trek to Laina Odar
After leaving Sisaul, we will ascend a pass with a beautiful small chorten. As we move forward, we will be towered with high rock walls on both sides. If we are lucky, we can catch a glimpse of blue sheep or snow leopards. After about 3 and 3-and-a-half-hour hours hike, we will arrive at Nawarpani where we will have our lunch.
We will then pass through the enchanting pine forest. The path is now straightforward till we reach Laina Odar. Here we will choose one of the guest houses for our overnight stay.
Maximum Altitude
3370 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
7-8 hrs walk
16
Trek to Lingdo
After leaving Lingdo early morning after breakfast, we will descend steeply to Laisicap located at an altitude of 2772 m. our path will pass through a forest and some stiff cliffs. Enjoy the fragrant smell of pine, juniper, fir, and cypress trees as you hike along the way.
Now, get ready to cross the Thuli Bheri River over a 120 m long suspension bridge. We will now steeply descend for 45 minutes after which the path is pretty flat. Keep an eye out for gray langurs on the way and absorb the best view of the snow-capped Kang Tokal of 6294 m height as the memento of this trip.
Maximum Altitude
2390 m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
5 hrs walk
Accomodations
Guest House
17
Trek to Dunai
We bid farewell to Lingdo and continue our return journey from Dolpo. After about 2 to 3 hours, we will arrive at the village of Bazar situated at 2427 m above sea level.
The rail then goes uphill and downhill following the coast of the Thulo Bheri river. Eventually, we will reach Dunai- the headquarter of Dolpa district. If you wish to explore the village, you can visit the Dolpa Kendriya Gompa, a serene Buddhist monastery
Maximum Altitude
2140 m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
5 hrs walk
Accomodations
Guest House
18
Trek to Juphal
We will leave Dunai to reach Juphal, the same place from where we began this remarkable journey. After walking for about 45 minutes, we will arrive at the stunning Chorten gate. It is also the entrance gate to Dunai VDC. We will now cross the long iron suspension bridge.
The same one that we crossed when entering Shey Phoksundo National Park. We will come across a small village of Dangiwada. After about 2 hours, we are now at Juphal. Since you have plenty of time, you can explore this little village and its quaint market.
Maximum Altitude
2475 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
4 hrs walk
Accomodations
Guest House
19
Flight to Nepalgunj to Kathmandu
We will take flight to Nepalgunj in early morning after breakfast. Like at the beginning of this journey, you may feel a change in the climate suddenly entering the Terai plains from the mountains. We will take an afternoon flight to Kathmandu so we will have lunch at a restaurant in the city. We will explore some colorful markets of Nepalgunj.
Then at noon, we will board the flight to Kathmandu. We will safely transport you back to your hotel in Kathmandu. Rest for a while and explore the capital streets, market vendors, and buy some souvenirs for your way home.
Maximum Altitude
1400m.
Meals
Breakfast
Trek Duration
35minutes + 45 minutes
Accomodations
3 Star Hotel
20
Departure
Say farewell to this paradise as today is the day you bid farewell to Nepal. We sincerely hope that you have had an amazing time exploring the beauty of Upper Dolpo. Our team will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your journey home.
Meals
Breakfast






Required Equipments for Trekking in Nepal
- Breathable Underwear
- Sports Bra
- Base Layers
- Trekking Shirts
- Trekking Trousers and Shorts
- Fleece Jacket
- Down jacket (insulated jacket)
- Windcheater (water proof)
- Sun protection Hat
- Headband or Beanie
- Scarf or neckband
- Gloves (inner and outer )
- Hiking Boots
- Trekking Shoes
- Hiking Socks
- Thermal Socks
- Gaiters
- Duffel Bag
- Day pack
- Sleeping Bag
- Trekking poles
- Sunglasses
- Hydration bladder or Water bottle
- Head Lamps
- Batteries
- Personal towel
- Swiss army knife
- Sun lotion
- Medical & first-aid kit
- Woolen socks
- Waterproof jacket
- Lip Guard
- Insulated pants
- Baby wipers
Required Equipments for Climbing in Nepal
- Water bottle
- Batteries and bulbs
- Flashlight
- Personal towel
- Swiss army knife
- Rucksack
- Sun lotion
- Medical & first-aid kit
- Sewing kit
- Polypropylene/wool socks
- Other required equipment
- Sleeping bag
- Down Jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Trekking shoes/boots
- Camp shoes
- Jumperorpile jacket
- Hiking pants
- Hiking shirts
- Full–sleeves shirt
- T-shirts
- Sun hat
- Gloves
- Woolen hat
- Long underwear
- Goggles or sun glasses
- Gaiters
- Sun block for lips
- Light cotton socks
- Mountain trekking boots
- Woolen socks to wear with boots
- Nylon wind breaker
- Insulated pants
- Nylon wind pants
- Long sleeved cotton/woolen shirts
- Sun hat
- Long cotton hiking shorts
- Fleece/wool for climbing
- Lightweight fleece
- Sleeping pad (karri mat) or thermarest
- Down high altitude sleeping bag
- Down jacket/trousers/vest
- Light cotton athletic socks and wool socks
- Water proof climbing jacket
- Head torch/batteries/bulbs
- Climbing sunglasses
- Lightweight thermal/insulated ski gloves
- Sun screen
- Warm climbing trousers
- Wool long underwear
- Other required equipment
- Climbing boots
- Gaiters
- Ice axe
- Harness
- Crampons
- Karabiners
- Tapes/slings
- Snow bars
- Ice screws
- Rock pegs
- Deadmen
- Crash hat
- Day bag
- Rucksack
- Lip salve
- T-shirts
- Ascenders
- Ascenders
- Kit bag
Whats Included
- Airport picks up and drops international and domestic.
- Complete departure information, about trek, flight ticket, guide, altitude sickness and reconfirmation and extend visa service (if necessary) and extra tour service before the trek starting.
- Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj to Juphal..
- Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Juphal to Kathmandu only 15 kg luggage aloud. (10kg Big bag & 5kg hand bag)
- Trek flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj to Juphal for member and involved Guide.
- Private transportation picks up and drops.
- Best Lodge accommodation & full board meals throughout the trek.
- Hot tea and coffee in a cup with each meals.
- 17 breakfast, 17 lunch and 17 dinner included chosen from lodge menu.
- 16 Nights twin share accommodation during the trek.
- As per group size experience, government licensed holder trek guide, helpful and friendly strong, porters (1 porter for 2 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff.( 5 trekkers 1 assistant guide )
- Warm Down jacket and four seasonal sleeping bag will be provided during the ABC trekking ( down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after the trip )
- TIMS Fee- Trekkers’ Information Management System (Please bring 2 passport size photos for permits)
- Conservation trek permit fee. Annapurna base camp trail map.
- First Aid kits for the staffs and the groups.
- Services coordination for emergency and rescue operations
- Government taxes & office service charge
Whats Excluded
- Meals not quantified in the ‘Meal Inclusions’ in the itinerary’
- Travel insurance
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa charge.
- All beverage and others personal expenses.
- Snacks and other personal expenses
- Hot shower during the trek
Upper Dolpo Trekking - Essential Information
Best season for Upper Dolpo Trek
Upper Dolpo Trek is accessible all year round. Still, the popular season for this trek is Spring from March to May, and autumn season from September to early December. During these months, trekkers can experience favorable weather conditions for hiking. The sky is clear blue, the passes are open, and the temperature is pleasant, suitable for 5 to 6 hours of hiking every day. One can enjoy the spectacular views of the region in clear visibility. The success rate for the Upper Dolpo trek is also high during these seasons.
The summer/monsoon season from June to August is also favorable for the Upper Dolpo trek. Unlike other trekking regions of Nepal, Upper Dolpo is located in the rain shadow of rocky cliffs. So there is little rain in the area, and the temperature is also cool due to its higher altitude.
From late December to February, when the Upper Dolpo region experiences chilly weather can be quite challenging. The passes above 5000 m altitude are often blanketed in heavy snow. The temperature drops below freezing, so you have to be well prepared for the bone-chilling and unpredictable weather. With necessary preparation with suitable equipment and precaution, however, you can embark on the upper Dolpo trek even in winter.
Upper Dolpo Trek Difficulty
The upper Dolpo trek is undoubtedly the challenging and demanding trek. Yet it is one of the most adventurous treks you can ever experience in Nepal. On this trek, you will come across several passes above 5000 m elevation. Such as Kang La pass and Shey La pass. In addition, the trail to Upper Dolpo constitutes an uphill and downhill trek taking between 5 to 7 hours. Therefore, having prior experience of trekking especially above 5000 m is beneficial. You should also be in an excellent physical and mental state. We recommend you engage in some physical training such as walking for 5 to 6 hours a day before this trek.
Our company has prepared the itinerary for this trek setting aside adequate acclimatization days. Our accompanying team is highly experienced and knowledgeable. Therefore, we ensure you the smooth completion of the Upper Dolpo trek.
Altitude Sickness
Upper Dolpo trek takes you to passes that are above 5000 m. most of the trekking days are spent above 3000 m elevation. so your body may feel the symptoms of altitude sickness. We have planned our itinerary such that your body will get enough rest physically and mentally. We will take our pace slowly and gradually. Still, at such great altitude, you may sometimes feel the symptoms of altitude sickness such as headache, nausea, loss of appetite, dizziness, fatigue, and vomiting. If you feel any of these symptoms, inform your guide, rest, progress slowly, and take a Diamox tablet to subside the symptoms.
Remember to always drink 3 to 4 liters of water every day to adequately hydrate your body. Avoid smoking, tobacco, and alcoholic beverages. Drink ginger tea or garlic soup as much as possible. If you feel your symptoms persist, inform your guide, do not continue your trek, and prepare for a return journey.
Accommodation, Food, and Transportation during Upper Dolpo trek
Our company strives to offer the most suitable accommodation option to our clients. In urban cities like Kathmandu and Nepalgunj, we have arranged a 2 or 3-star hotel with twin sharing rooms with quality and affordability. If you desire single or deluxe rooms, please inform us so we can arrange the most favorable option for you. We are flexible in providing you with all kinds of lodgings from budget-friendly to luxurious ones at a reduced or additional cost.
During the trek, we will try to board you in the most comfortable and clean lodges or guest houses. Due to the remoteness of the place, the amenities will be basic here. You may have to pay an extra cost for hot water.
From the 5th day to the 13th day of our Upper Dolpo trek, we will settle you in a tented camp where our well-trained staff will prepare hot meals from locally grown fresh produce.
As for meals, when you reside in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj, breakfast is included in the accommodation cost. For any other meals, the cost is excluded from our package. There are several options to try out in cities if you are looking to taste new cuisines. There are several high-quality restaurants in every nook and corner.
However, during the trek, you cannot have many food options. However, the food will be well prepared and hygienic. Our Upper Dolpo trek package includes three complimentary meals every day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek. Our staff will also serve hot tea or coffee with every meal. However, for alcoholic and other beverages, you have to pay for yourself.
We will also take care of your transportation as soon as this journey begins. Our competent representative will meet you at the airport as you land in Nepal. He will transfer you to the reserved hotel in a private car or van. We will also take care of domestic flights that you will be taking from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, from Nepalgunj to Juphal, and from Juphal- Nepalgunj-Kathmandu. As this journey comes to an end, our members will transport you to the Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure to your home.
Insurance
When embarking on the Upper Dolpo trek, you will be visiting some remote and restricted regions in Nepal. There is limited vehicle access and few health posts. Therefore, we recommend you purchase travel insurance that can cover you at altitudes of more than 3000 m or 5000 m. At such greater heights above sea level, you sometimes can experience mild to severe symptoms of altitude sickness.
In addition, the area, being surrounded by the Himalayas, often encounters heavy snowfall and windy storms, especially during winter. In such cases, emergent helicopter evacuation may be needed, which can be a heavy load for your pocket. Therefore, buying the correct travel insurance will cover all your medical, hospital, and evacuation costs in case you encounter such problems.
What to expect in Upper Dolpo Trek?
The upper Dolpo trek is the challenging yet the most rewarding in Nepal. For nature lovers, travel enthusiasts, and thrill seekers, this trek is the perfect trip. Each day of this trek gives you a new adventure. You can suddenly experience a complete change in weather and landscape as soon as you land in Juphal after a flight from Nepalgunj. Transformation from a colorful vibrant city to the most serene and secluded place on Earth, get ready to be surprised!
Each day, 5 to 7 hours of walk across a stony path, narrow ridges, with high rock walls on each side. Paths covered with sacred prayer flags, chortens, and mani walls will give you a glimpse of ancient Buddhist and Tibetan culture. The magnificent views of Dhaulagiri and several other snow-capped mountains can leave you spellbound. The rapidity of Thulo Bheri River and the turquoise serene Phoksundo Lake make you forget your worries and delve into making new memories.
The occasional sighting of blue sheep, snow leopards, and grey langurs can steal your heart. Moreover, the hospitality of Magars, Gurungs, and other residents will win you over. The local cuisines prepared from the fresh local produce will enchant your pallet. Therefore, prepare to be unprepared, and expect to be unexpected when making a trip to Upper Dolpo.
Upper Dolpo Trekking - FAQs
Can I customize the Upper Dolpo Trek?
Yes, we always adopt a flexible approach when taking care of our guests. If you wish to extend or shorten your days in Nepal, please inform us. We will do our best to facilitate your requests.
Is there internet on the route of this trip?
Wifi is available at Kathmandu and Nepalgunj but as you approach the rural areas, the internet connections can be unreliable and unpredictable. There can be some guest houses that will provide WIFI but they may charge you an additional cost ranging from USD 2 to 3 per hour. You can always use NTC or NCELL SIM networks for accessing the internet. These networks provide affordable data packages. As said above, any internet connection can be unreliable as you gain higher altitudes.
Are there ATMs available in Upper Dolpo Trek?
Yes, there are ATMs in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj. Some villages like Juphal may have ATMs but we recommend you withdraw money when you are in the city. The modern banking system is quite not developed in remote villages so carry cash in Nepali Rupees.
Can I opt for a solo trek in Upper Dolpo?
We don’t recommend you travel solo for this region as we pass through a restricted area of Dolpo. As per the new rule, every trekker must be accompanied by a certified guide. Also for your safety, we recommend you travel with a guide who can assist you in case of any emergencies.
Are the rooms previously booked during the trek?
Yes, we reserve the rooms before commencing the trek, especially in the peak season of the trek. Sometimes, it becomes problematic to book rooms on the spot so reserving rooms before starting the trek guarantees lodging during the trek.
Do I have to tip the porter and guide?
Tipping guide and porter is not mandatory but it is expected. You can tip your guide and porter 10- 20% of the total bill or according to the satisfaction of the service.
Is there safe drinking water during the trek?
Yes, safe clean drinking water is available during the trek. You can always request hot water in the lodges. When camping, our team will boil water for you or they will treat water with iodine. We recommend you carry water purification pills which will come in handy when walking on the route. Although you can buy mineral water bottles, we don’t recommend you to do so for environmental safety.
This is a camping trek, so is it safe?
Yes, camping during the Upper Dolpo trek is completely safe. All the staff involved in this trek are honest and responsible. They will look after your safety all the time. Our guide is a certified personnel who knows how to deal with any kind of emergency.
However, we do recommend you keep your personal belongings inside the tent and never leave it open or unattended. Also, do not bring valuable jewelry or carry a lot of cash. Our staff will guard the campsite in turns during the night for your security.
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