Upper Dolpo Trek

This day is kept for preparation before starting the trek. Necessary permits for the restricted Upper Dolpa region and entry to Shey Phoksundo National Park are arranged. Trekkers check their equipment, rent or buy any missing gear, and receive a briefing about the trekking route, altitude, and weather conditions. It is also a good opportunity to explore the cultural sites of Kathmandu.

On the third day, you take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj in western Nepal. The flight takes about one hour and offers views of the Himalayan mountains and the plains of the Terai region. Nepalgunj is a busy town near the Indian border and serves as the main gateway to remote trekking regions such as Dolpa and Humla.

Early in the morning you take a scenic mountain flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal. This small airport is the main access point to the Dolpa region. After landing, the trekking journey begins with a gradual walk through small villages and terraced fields. The trail follows the Bheri River valley and eventually reaches Dunai, which is the administrative center of Dolpa district.

Because flights to Juphal are often affected by mountain weather, this day is kept as a buffer. If the flights operate on time, trekkers can use the day to rest, explore the local village area, or prepare for the next trekking stages.

The trek continues from Dunai along the river valley through forests and small settlements. The trail passes the entrance checkpoint of Shey Phoksundo National Park. Gradually the trail climbs toward the village of Shyanta, where trekkers spend the night.

From Shyanta the trail continues through dense pine forests and rocky paths. Along the route you will see beautiful waterfalls and mountain scenery. The altitude gradually increases as the trek approaches higher Himalayan terrain. The day ends at Jharana, a small stop used by trekkers.

Today is one of the most exciting days of the trek. After several hours of walking through forests and steep trails, the magnificent Phoksundo Lake appears. The deep blue color of the lake and the surrounding cliffs create a spectacular view. Nearby Ringmo Village offers a chance to observe the traditional culture of the Dolpo people.

Leaving the lake behind, the trail climbs above the cliffs along narrow mountain paths. The landscape gradually changes from forested areas to alpine terrain. After several hours of trekking, you reach the forest camp at Salla Ghari where you stay overnight.

The trek continues toward higher altitude areas with more rugged landscapes. The trail passes rocky slopes and wide valleys. Eventually you reach Kang La Base Camp, where trekkers prepare for crossing the high mountain pass the following day.

This is one of the most challenging days of the trek. Early in the morning you climb to Kang La Pass, which offers impressive views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. After crossing the pass, the trail descends toward Shey Gompa, an ancient monastery that is considered one of the most sacred places in the Dolpa region.

A rest day is important for acclimatization at this high altitude. Trekkers can explore the monastery, visit nearby caves, or walk around the sacred Crystal Mountain area, which is an important pilgrimage site for local Buddhists.

The trek continues with another high mountain pass crossing. After reaching Sela Pass, the trail descends into a remote valley before arriving at Namgung village. This small settlement reflects the traditional Tibetan culture of the region.

From Namgung the trail gradually descends across open landscapes and dry valleys until reaching Saldang. It is the largest village in Upper Dolpa and an important cultural and trading center.

The trail continues through remote valleys and pastures where yaks and sheep are often seen grazing. The journey today is quieter and less visited by trekkers. An overnight stay is at Khoma Gaun.

Today’s trek passes through small settlements and traditional houses built from stone and mud. The area is dry and remote, reflecting the Tibetan plateau environment. You spend the night in the village of Mendo.

The trail leads to Tinje, a historic village that once served as an important stop on the ancient salt trade route between Nepal and Tibet. The village still maintains its traditional lifestyle and architecture.

The trek continues through wide valleys and high altitude landscapes until reaching Rapka. The surrounding scenery is very remote and peaceful.

This day is used to explore Chharka village and its surroundings. Trekkers can observe local life, visit monasteries, and learn more about the culture of the Dolpo people.

Leaving Chharka, the trail climbs toward higher pastures and remote valleys. The scenery becomes more rugged as you approach the high pass area.

Today the trek crosses another high mountain pass before reaching Sangda Phedi. The pass provides wide views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges.

After crossing the second pass, the trail descends steeply toward Sangda Village. The landscape slowly changes as the trek moves closer to the Mustang region.

The trek continues through valleys and small settlements until reaching Pangling village.

This is the final trekking day. The trail leads to Jomsom, a popular trekking town in the Mustang region.

A short mountain flight takes you from Jomsom to Pokhara. After the long trekking journey, you can relax by the lakeside and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

You return to Kathmandu by plane, marking the end of the trekking journey.

This day can be used for sightseeing, shopping, or simply relaxing after the long trek.

You will be transferred to the airport for your international flight home, bringing the Upper Dolpa trekking adventure to a close.