24 Day Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek Itinerary with Map at Best Price
Trip Overview
The Upper Dolpo Trek explores Nepal’s remote western frontier, a high-altitude arid region known for its Tibetan Buddhist and Bön Po culture, the mesmerizing turquoise Shey Phoksundo Lake, and the spiritual Crystal Mountain.
This trek is an excellent choice if you seek a true wilderness expedition, far removed from modern development, where yak caravans still traverse centuries-old trade routes.
This is a 24-day trip, of which 17 days are spent trekking through the Shey Phoksundo National Park, crossing high passes like Kang La (5,350 m) and Jeng La (5,110 m). The remaining days cover travel, acclimatization, and rest.
Upper Dolpo is located in the Dolpa district of western Nepal, nestled between the Dhaulagiri range and the Tibetan plateau. Popularized by Peter Matthiessen’s book The Snow Leopard and Eric Valli’s Oscar-nominated film Himalaya (Caravan), this region remains one of the last bastions of traditional Tibetan culture.
The Government of Nepal classifies Upper Dolpo as a Restricted Area to preserve its fragile ecosystem and ancient heritage. Non-Nepali trekkers must obtain a special Restricted Area Permit (RAP), travel in a group of at least two, and be accompanied by a licensed guide.
Travel To Nepal guides have over 15 years of experience navigating these remote trans-Himalayan trails. We manage all complex logistics, from restricted permits to arranging domestic flights to Juphal.
What Are the Main Attractions of the Trek?
The Upper Dolpo Trek offers 10 unique attractions including high passes, spiritual sanctuaries, and rare wildlife, which are listed below:
- Shey Phoksundo Lake: This alpine freshwater lake, located at 3,611 meters, is famous for its distinct aquamarine color and lack of aquatic life due to its extreme oligotrophic nature.
- Shey Gompa & Crystal Mountain: Trekkers visit the 11th-century Shey Gompa, situated at the base of Crystal Mountain (Shey Phoksundo), a peak known for its veins of quartz and religious significance to pilgrims.
- Bön Po Culture: Upper Dolpo preserves the ancient Bön religion, a pre-Buddhist spiritual practice. Ringmo village and Tshowa Gompa on the shores of Phoksundo Lake are key centers of this heritage.
- High Himalayan Passes: The route challenges you to cross two major passes: Kang La (Nagdalo La) at 5,350 m and Jeng La at 5,110 m, offering panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and the Tibetan plateau.
- Dho Tarap Valley: You will explore Dho Tarap, one of the highest human settlements on Earth (4,080 m), where villagers trade goods with Tibet and harvest Yarchagumba (cordyceps).
- Shey Phoksundo National Park: As Nepal’s largest national park, it protects a unique trans-Himalayan ecosystem comprising blue pine, spruce, cypress, and medicinal plants.
- Wildlife Spotting: The park is a prime habitat for the elusive Snow Leopard, Himalayan Blue Sheep (Bharal), Musk Deer, and Himalayan Griffons.
- Saldang Village: This sprawling village serves as the agricultural backbone of Upper Dolpo, showcasing traditional terrace farming in an arid landscape.
- Remoteness and Solitude: Unlike the Everest or Annapurna regions, Upper Dolpo sees very few trekkers, guaranteeing a peaceful experience in the wilderness.
- Tibetan Architecture: Villages feature flat-roofed stone houses, ancient chortens, and mani walls that reflect the region’s close cultural and geographical ties to Tibet.
Who Is This Trek Right For?
The Upper Dolpo Trek is highly recommended if you are an experienced trekker who wants to explore a “Hidden Land” (Beyul), thrives in high-altitude camping conditions, and holds a deep interest in anthropology and Tibetan mysticism.
We have listed additional criteria below so you can determine whether this trek is a good fit for you:
- Trek Difficulty: Strenuous. You will walk an average of 6–8 hours per day, with several days spent above 4,000 meters and two passes exceeding 5,000 meters.
- Accommodation: Camping & Basic Teahouses. While teahouses are appearing in lower regions, Upper Dolpo largely requires camping. Travel To Nepal provides full camping support (tents, kitchen crew) for the upper sections.
- Food and dietary options: Camping Kitchen. Our kitchen crew prepares hygienic vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals. Fresh produce is limited in this arid region, so menus rely on dry goods and local staples.
- Age requirement: 18+ Recommended. Due to the remote nature, high altitude, and lack of immediate medical facilities, we recommend this trek for adults in excellent physical condition. Minors require prior approval and a customized itinerary.
- Group size: Minimum 2 Trekkers. The Restricted Area Permit strictly requires a minimum of two foreign nationals. Solo trekkers must pay for a “ghost” permit or join a group.
Upper Dolpo Trek Complete Itinerary
This 24-day Upper Dolpo itinerary outlines each stage of the expedition with elevation details, route segments, and key cultural highlights.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Overview
- Meals Included: None
- Elevation: 1,400 meters / 4,600 feet
- Overnight: Kathmandu (3-Star Hotel)
Full Description
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), you will complete the on-arrival visa process and customs clearance. This typically takes 30–60 minutes. After exiting the terminal, our Travel To Nepal representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in a private vehicle.
The remainder of the day is reserved for rest. In the evening, a pre-trek briefing will be held. You will meet your guide, review the camping logistics, and finalize your Restricted Area Permit documentation.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu & Permit Preparation
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast
- Activity: Sightseeing & Gear Check
- Overnight: Kathmandu
Full Description
While our team finalizes your Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit (which requires your original passport), you will explore Kathmandu. We visit Boudhanath Stupa, a center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal, which sets the cultural tone for your upcoming trek.
Later, you will visit Pashupatinath Temple, a significant Hindu site. The afternoon is free for gear shopping in Thamel. We recommend purchasing any missing items here, as shops in Dolpo are virtually non-existent.
Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast
- Elevation: 150 meters / 490 feet
- Flight Duration: 50 minutes
- Overnight: Nepalgunj (Hotel)
Full Description
You will take a scenic afternoon flight to Nepalgunj, a transport hub in the western Terai plains near the Indian border. The climate here is tropical and humid. Upon arrival, you transfer to your hotel. This stopover is necessary as flights to the mountain airstrip of Juphal depart early the next morning.
Day 4: Fly to Juphal, Trek to Dunai
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Elevation: 2,140 meters (Dunai)
- Flight Duration: 35 minutes
- Trek Duration: 3 hours
- Overnight: Dunai (Lodge/Camp)
Full Description
You board an early morning Twin Otter flight to Juphal (2,475 m), the only airstrip in Dolpo. The flight offers dramatic views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. After landing, you meet your trekking support crew (porters/mules).
The trek begins with a descent to the Thuli Bheri River. You walk along the riverbank on a broad trail to reach Dunai, the administrative headquarters of the Dolpa district.
Day 5: Trek from Dunai to Chhepka
Overview
- Elevation: 2,838 meters
- Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
- Overnight: Chhepka (Lodge/Camp)
Full Description
You cross the suspension bridge over the Thuli Bheri and turn west, entering the Shey Phoksundo National Park. The trail follows the Suli Gad river upstream. You pass through villages like Parela and Rahagaon, eventually reaching Chhepka, a small settlement surrounded by millet and wheat fields.
Day 6: Trek from Chhepka to Jharana Hotel (Waterfall)
Overview
- Elevation: 3,110 meters
- Trek Duration: 6 hours
- Overnight: Jharana Hotel (Camping)
Full Description
The trail continues through a beautiful forest of cedar and pine. You climb steadily through the valley, crossing the river multiple times on wooden bridges. As you gain altitude, the forest becomes denser. You camp near the Jharana Hotel, named after the massive waterfall (Jharana) formed by the outflow of Phoksundo Lake nearby.
Day 7: Trek to Ringmo Village (Phoksundo Lake)
Overview
- Elevation: 3,611 meters
- Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
- Overnight: Ringmo (Lodge/Camp)
Full Description
A steep ascent brings you to a viewpoint where you witness Nepal’s highest waterfall, the Phoksundo Waterfall (167 m). Further up, you get your first glimpse of Shey Phoksundo Lake. A final descent through birch forests leads to Ringmo, a traditional Bön Po village featuring mud-plastered chortens and mani walls.
Day 8: Acclimatization and Exploration of Phoksundo Lake
Overview
- Activity: Rest & Exploration
- Overnight: Ringmo
Full Description
Today is vital for acclimatization. You explore the shores of the deep turquoise lake and visit Tshowa Gompa, a 900-year-old Bön monastery located on a ridge above the lake. The surreal color of the lake and the silence of the surrounding Kanjirowa Himal create a spiritual atmosphere.
Day 9: Trek from Phoksundo to Lar Tsa (Snowfields Camp)
Overview
- Elevation: 4,120 meters
- Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
- Overnight: Camping
Full Description
You enter the restricted Upper Dolpo region today. The trail skirts the western edge of the lake on a narrow, precipitous path famously depicted in the movie Himalaya. After the lake ends, you enter a wide floodplain and trek to Lar Tsa, setting up camp near the river.
Day 10: Trek from Lar Tsa to Shey Gompa via Kang La Pass
Overview
- Elevation: 4,343 meters (Shey Gompa)
- Pass Crossing: Kang La (5,350 m)
- Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
- Overnight: Camping
Full Description
This is a challenging day. You ascend steeply to cross Kang La Pass (also known as Nagdalo La). From the summit, you are rewarded with views of Crystal Mountain and the arid Tibetan landscape. A long descent brings you to the fabled Shey Gompa, often called the spiritual heart of Dolpo.
Day 11: Rest and Exploration at Shey Gompa
Overview
- Activity: Monastery Visit & Hiking
- Overnight: Camping
Full Description
Shey Gompa stands at the confluence of two rivers at the base of Crystal Mountain (Shey Phoksundo). You spend the day exploring the 11th-century monastery and, if energy permits, hiking to Tsakang Gompa, a retreat center perched on a red cliff face.
Day 12: Trek from Shey Gompa to Namgung via Shey La Pass
Overview
- Elevation: 4,360 meters
- Pass Crossing: Shey La (5,095 m)
- Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
- Overnight: Namgung (Camping)
Full Description
You traverse another high pass, Shey La (5,095 m). The pass offers unparalleled views of the Mustang region to the east and Tibet to the north. You descend to Namgung, a village hidden in a canyon, home to the ancient Namgung Monastery.
Day 13: Trek from Namgung to Saldang
Overview
- Elevation: 3,770 meters
- Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
- Overnight: Saldang (Camping/Homestay)
Full Description
A short, scenic walk brings you to Saldang, the largest village in Upper Dolpo. Situated on a plateau high above the Namgung Khola, Saldang is an agricultural hub. You will see expansive terraced fields of barley and buckwheat.
Day 14: Trek from Saldang to Sibu
Overview
- Elevation: 4,200 meters
- Trek Duration: 6 hours
- Overnight: Sibu (Camping)
Full Description
Leaving Saldang, you follow the Nagon Khola river south. The trail passes through small settlements like Namdo, consisting of scattered houses and vast fields. You camp near the village of Sibu.
Day 15: Trek from Sibu to Jeng-la Phedi (High Camp)
Overview
- Elevation: 4,900 meters
- Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
- Overnight: Camping
Full Description
You continue along the river before turning east into a side valley. The trail ascends gradually towards the base of Jeng La Pass. You set up camp at Jeng-la Phedi, surrounded by high peaks, preparing for tomorrow’s crossing.
Day 16: Trek to Tokyu via Jeng La Pass
Overview
- Elevation: 4,209 meters (Tokyu)
- Pass Crossing: Jeng La (5,110 m)
- Trek Duration: 7 hours
- Overnight: Tokyu (Camping)
Full Description
You start early to cross Jeng La Pass (5,110 m). The summit offers spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri massif. You descend into the Tarap Valley, a wide, fertile valley populated by Bon Po and Buddhist communities. You camp at Tokyu, home to the region’s oldest monastery.
Day 17: Trek from Tokyu to Dho Tarap
Overview
- Elevation: 4,080 meters
- Trek Duration: 2 hours
- Overnight: Dho Tarap (Lodge/Camp)
Full Description
A short, easy walk leads to Dho Tarap, a large settlement where people of Tibetan descent live in stone houses. This area is famous for the trade of Yarchagumba. You have the afternoon to explore the village, visit local schools, and observe the unique Magar-Tibetan culture.
Day 18: Rest Day in Dho Tarap
Overview
- Activity: Cultural Immersion
- Overnight: Dho Tarap
Full Description
We utilize this day to immerse ourselves in the local lifestyle. You can visit the Ribo Bumpa Monastery and interact with locals who still wear traditional attire (bakhu) and turquoise jewelry.
Day 19: Trek from Dho Tarap to Tarap Khola (Nawarpani)
Overview
- Elevation: 3,800 meters
- Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
- Overnight: Camping
Full Description
You descend into the gorge of the Tarap Khola. The valley narrows significantly, and the trail is often carved into the cliffside. You camp at Nawarpani (also known as Kama Kharka), a meadow by the river.
Day 20: Trek from Nawarpani to Khanigaon
Overview
- Elevation: 3,150 meters
- Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
- Overnight: Camping
Full Description
The trek continues through the deep gorge. The landscape transforms as you descend, with vegetation becoming lush and green. You walk through pine and spruce forests to reach Khanigaon.
Day 21: Trek from Khanigaon to Dunai
Overview
- Elevation: 2,140 meters
- Trek Duration: 5 hours
- Overnight: Dunai (Lodge)
Full Description
You leave the wilderness behind as you trek back to Dunai. You trek past the fortress of Tarakot and follow the Barbung Khola until it joins the Thuli Bheri. We celebrate the completion of the circuit at a lodge in Dunai.
Day 22: Trek from Dunai to Juphal
Overview
- Elevation: 2,475 meters
- Trek Duration: 3 hours
- Overnight: Juphal (Lodge)
Full Description
The final leg of the trek is a short ascent from Dunai back to Juphal. You spend the evening resting and confirming your flight for the next morning.
Day 23: Fly Juphal to Nepalgunj to Kathmandu
Overview
- Activity: Two Flights
- Overnight: Kathmandu
Full Description
You take an early morning flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, connect to a flight to Kathmandu, and transfer to your hotel. In the evening, Travel To Nepal hosts a Farewell Dinner with a cultural program to celebrate your journey.
Day 24: Departure
Overview
- Activity: Airport Transfer
Full Description
Our representative transfers you to the airport for your final departure, carrying memories of the hidden land of Dolpo.
Upper Dolpo Trek Cost Inclusion & Exclusion
Included Service & Amenities
- Airport Transfers: Private vehicle pickup/drop-off for international and domestic flights.
- Domestic Flights: Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Juphal round trip (Tax included).
- Accommodation: 3 nights in a 3-star Kathmandu hotel, 1 night Nepalgunj hotel, and camping/teahouse accommodation during the trek.
- Camping Crew: Full camping support including a professional chef, kitchen helpers, and dining tents.
- Permits: Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit (USD 500 for 10 days + USD 50/day extra), Lower Dolpo Permit, and Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit.
- Staff: Experienced English-speaking Guide, Assistant Guide, and Mules/Porters to carry luggage.
- Meals: Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek, prepared by our kitchen team.
- Gear: Sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and trekking map (to be returned after trek).
- Safety: Oxygen cylinder, Pulse Oximeter, and comprehensive First Aid Kit.
- Certificates: Official Trek Completion Certificate.
Excluded From The Package
- International Airfare: Flights to/from Nepal.
- Visa: Nepal Entry Visa fees.
- Insurance: Travel insurance with high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage (Mandatory).
- Personal Expenses: Alcohol, soft drinks, laundry, and Wi-Fi.
- Tips: Gratuities for guide, porters, and kitchen crew.
- Meals in Cities: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj.
What Are the Best Scenic Spots in Upper Dolpo?
The best scenic spots in Upper Dolpo are vast, dramatic, and photogenic. Below is a list of the most memorable locations:
- Phoksundo Lake Viewpoint: Located on the ridge above Ringmo, this spot offers the iconic view of the deep turquoise lake contrasted against the barren grey cliffs and pine forests.
- Kang La Pass Summit (5,350 m): From the top of this pass, photographers can capture the “Crystal Mountain” and the rolling arid hills of the Tibetan plateau extending endlessly north.
- Shey Gompa Complex: The confluence of rivers with the red-ochre monastery and the backdrop of Crystal Mountain creates a mystical, timeless composition.
- Saldang Village Ridge: A hike above Saldang reveals the sheer scale of the settlement—green patches of barley fields amidst a vast desert-like landscape, visually striking in harvest season.
- Dho Tarap Valley: The wide, flat valley floor dotted with stone houses and yaks grazing, surrounded by golden hills, offers perfect golden-hour photography opportunities.
- Jeng La Pass: Provides a panoramic vista of the Dhaulagiri massif (8,167 m) glistening in the south, a stark contrast to the brown hills of Dolpo.
- Phoksundo Waterfall: At 167 meters, seeing this massive cascade thundering down into the valley below is a display of raw natural power.
Facilities Available During the Trek
Typical Meals and Food Quality
In Upper Dolpo, camping is the standard. Our kitchen crew travels with you to prepare hygienic, hot meals.
- Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, pancakes, coffee/tea.
- Lunch: Freshly cooked pasta, sandwiches, potatoes, or Sherpa stew.
- Dinner: Soup, Dal Bhat (rice/lentils), curry, or western-style dishes.
- Note: We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. Meat is avoided in high camps for hygiene safety.
Lodging Standards
- Camping: You sleep in high-quality two-person alpine tents with foam mattresses. We provide a dining tent, kitchen tent, and toilet tent.
- Teahouses: In villages like Dunai, Juphal, and Ringmo, simple lodges are available. Rooms have twin beds and shared bathrooms.
Transportation
- Flights: The only access is via the Nepalgunj-Juphal flight. These small aircraft flights are weather-dependent.
- Delays: Flights can be cancelled due to wind or visibility. We build buffer days into the itinerary and can arrange helicopter charters in emergencies (approx. $4,000+).
Best Time to Trek to Upper Dolpo
Upper Dolpo lies in the rain shadow of the Dhaulagiri range, making it a rare destination suitable for summer trekking.
Spring (April to May)
- Pros: Warmer weather, high passes are accessible, and nature is waking up.
- Cons: Some high passes may still have residual snow.
Summer/Monsoon (June to August)
- Pros: Best Season. The region is dry while the rest of Nepal is rainy. The valleys are green, and flowers bloom (blue poppies).
- Cons: Flights to/from Juphal can be disrupted by rain in the lowlands (Nepalgunj).
Autumn (September to October)
- Pros: Crystal clear skies, harvest season in villages, stable weather.
- Cons: Temperatures drop rapidly; nights are freezing (down to -15°C). Snow starts closing passes by November.
How to Physically Prepare?
Upper Dolpo is a strenuous trek.
- Cardio: Run, cycle, or swim 4–5 times a week for 3 months prior.
- Strength: Leg presses, lunges, and squats are essential for the steep ascents.
- Endurance: Weekend hikes of 6–8 hours with a 10kg pack.
- Mental: Prepare for isolation, cold, and basic living conditions.
Health, Safety & Permits
Altitude Sickness (AMS)
- You spend over a week above 4,000m.
- Protocol: We follow a slow ascent profile. Our guides carry Pulse Oximeters and medical oxygen.
- Insurance: Mandatory insurance covering helicopter evacuation up to 6,000m.
Permits Required
- Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit: USD 20/week.
- Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit: USD 500 (for first 10 days) + USD 50/day thereafter.
- Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit: USD 30.
- Note: Travel To Nepal handles all permit processing.
Packing Guide (Upper Dolpo Specifics)
In addition to standard trekking gear, ensure you have:
- Solar Charger/Power Bank: (20,000mAh+) No electricity in Upper Dolpo.
- Dry Shampoo/Wet Wipes: Showers are non-existent for weeks.
- Satellite Phone: (Optional) Phone signal is absent past Ringmo; our guide carries a Sat-phone for emergencies.
- Warm Layers: Down jacket rated to -20°C is mandatory.
- Water Filter: SteriPen or tablets (crucial for camping water).
Trekkers Reviews
Name: Sarah Jenkins (UK)
“Upper Dolpo with Travel To Nepal was a life-changing expedition. The logistics of the camping crew were flawless—waking up to hot coffee at Shey Gompa was a luxury I didn’t expect. Our guide, Tashi, was incredibly knowledgeable about the Bön culture. The cost was high, but the solitude was worth every penny.”
Name: Mark & Elena (USA)
“We were worried about the difficulty, but the itinerary allowed for good acclimatization. Phoksundo Lake is even bluer than the photos! The team handled a flight delay in Nepalgunj professionally, rerouting us quickly. A true wilderness experience.”