The Upper Dolpo Trekking experience is a journey through one of Nepal's most remote and stunning regions, offering trekkers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure.
  • DestinationNepal
  • Durations27 days
  • Group Size15+

Upper Dolpo Trekking-27 Days Highlights

Highlights of the 27 Days Upper Dolpo Trek Itinerary

Embark on the Upper Dolpo Trek, a captivating adventure through Nepal's largest national park, Shey Phoksundo National Park, rich in diverse flora and fauna. This trek offers a rare opportunity to witness the pristine turquoise waters of Lake Phoksundo and encounter endangered species like snow leopards and blue sheep. Delve into the ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture at the 800-year-old Shey Gompa, experience the remote lifestyle of locals practicing Bon Buddhism, and enjoy unparalleled views from Kang Taiga (5,950 meters) along with breathtaking vistas of Mount Dhaulagiri and Mount Annapurna II.

Overview

Experience on the Upper Dolpo Trek, an extraordinary expedition to one of Nepal's most secluded and pristine areas. Nestled between the majestic Dhaulagiri range and the Tibetan plateau, this 27-day trek stands out as a remarkable challenge and adventure for those willing to delve deep into the heart of the Himalayas. It's an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic mountain lifestyle and enchanting Himalayan ambiance of a region untouched by the passage of time.

Recently opened to foreigners, Upper Dolpo has quickly ascended the ranks to become one of the premier trekking destinations in the Himalayas, celebrated for its untouched natural beauty and rich cultural tapestry. Despite its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, Dolpo's remote location and limited accessibility have kept it under the radar for many adventurers.

This meticulously crafted 27 Days Upper Dolpo Trek Itinerary guides you through stunning valleys, diverse ethnic communities, and past the imposing peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Kanjiroba. Wander amidst verdant forests of rhododendron, pine, and oak, experiencing the magnificence of Nepal's rugged far western region. Traverse Lower Dolpo, a region steeped in history and once a kingdom in its own right.

The trek offers the chance to witness the vibrant Tibetan Buddhist culture, the mesmerizing Shey Phoksundo Lake, the elusive snow leopard, and ancient monasteries such as the 800-year-old Shey Monastery. It also introduces trekkers to Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal's largest national park, where the revered Shey Gompa stands as a beacon of centuries-old Buddhist and Bonpo traditions, enriched with shamanistic practices.

Your journey is further embellished by perennial rivers, captivating waterfalls, lush meadows, diverse fauna, and the challenge of crossing three mountain passes over 5,000 meters. The Upper Dolpo Trek not only offers a deeply rewarding trekking experience but also an intimate encounter with the remote wilderness and cultural heritage of the Himalayas, making it a must-do for those seeking adventure beyond the conventional paths.

Navigating the Challenges of Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo Trek presents a unique set of challenges including long itineraries across desert-like topographies, steep ascents, and descents, and crossing two high-altitude mountains. With passes like Kang-La at 5,151 meters, acclimatization becomes crucial to combat altitude sickness. Despite the remoteness and basic amenities, the trek's allure lies in its untouched beauty and cultural richness. Preparing for different seasonal conditions and being in excellent physical and mental shape is essential for this high-altitude journey.

Permits for Upper Dolpo Trek

To embark on this exclusive journey, trekkers require three specific permits: The Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Fee, and the Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit. Due to the special nature of this trek, individual trekking is not permitted in restricted areas, and permits cannot be obtained independently. Our comprehensive package includes all permit costs and arrangements, ensuring you a hassle-free and unforgettable trekking experience in one of Nepal's most extraordinary and secluded landscapes.

Detail Itinerary

Cost Details

Cost Includes

What's Included in Your Journey

  • Arrival/Departure: All arrival and departure transfers in a private vehicle, ensuring a smooth journey to and from Nepal.
  • Accommodations: Comfortable twin/double sharing 3-star standard accommodations in Kathmandu and the best available teahouse/lodge/guesthouse accommodations during the trek.
  • Meals: Daily breakfast in Kathmandu; all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner with tea/coffee) during the trek to keep you energized.
  • Transportation: All required ground transportation as per the itinerary, including domestic airfare within Nepal to facilitate your trek.
  • Trekking Crew: An experienced government-licensed trekking guide and the required number of Sherpa porters and crew, ensuring a safe and enriched trekking experience.
  • Permits and Fees: All necessary permits including Shey Phoksundo National Park Fees, Upper Dolpo Special permits, TIMS fees, and local province fees are covered.
  • Equipment: Provision of trekking and camping/kitchen equipment as necessary for a comfortable journey.
  • Medical Kit: A comprehensive medical kit including an Oximeter for health monitoring in high altitudes.
  • Extras: A welcome/farewell dinner to celebrate your adventure, along with all applicable government taxes included.

Cost Excludes

Not Included in Your Adventure

  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu and Nepal entry visa fees.
  • Excess baggage charges, ensuring you pack light and right for the trek.
  • Personal expenses, ensuring you manage your spending on luxuries and personal items efficiently.
  • Travel insurance, a must-have for any high-altitude adventure for peace of mind.
  • Tips and gratitude for your trekking crew, a gesture of appreciation for their hard work and dedication.

 

Good to Know

1. Discover the Hidden Gem of Nepal: Upper Dolpo

The Upper Dolpo Trek invites adventurous souls to explore one of Nepal's least accessible and most awe-inspiring areas. Known for its rugged terrain, the trek passes through Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to the mesmerizing Phoksundo Lake, and offers views of untouched natural landscapes. This high-altitude wilderness area is a treasure trove for trekkers seeking solitude and the beauty of Nepal's pristine environments.

2. The Rich Cultural Tapestry of Upper Dolpo

Trekking in Upper Dolpo offers a rare glimpse into ancient traditions and lifestyles that have remained unchanged for centuries. The region is heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, as seen in the local monasteries, chortens, and the daily lives of the Dolpo people. This trek is not just a physical journey but a deep cultural immersion into the heart of Himalayan spirituality and heritage.

3. Best Season for Upper Dolpo Trekking

The best time to trek Upper Dolpo is during the pre-monsoon months of May through July and the post-monsoon months of September through November. These periods provide trekkers with more stable weather conditions, clearer skies, and the best visibility of Dolpo's dramatic landscapes. Timing your trek during these months ensures a more fulfilling and enjoyable experience.

4. Unique Flora and Fauna of Shey Phoksundo National Park

The Upper Dolpo Trek traverses through Shey Phoksundo National Park, offering trekkers the opportunity to witness a diverse range of flora and fauna unique to this region. The park is a sanctuary for many endangered species, including the snow leopard and the blue sheep. Trekkers will be enchanted by the park's biodiversity and the conservation efforts to preserve this precious ecosystem.

5. Planning and Preparations for the Upper Dolpo Expedition

Due to its remote location and challenging terrain, preparing for the Upper Dolpo trek requires careful planning and consideration. Trekkers should be physically fit and have experience in high-altitude trekking. It's essential to be well-equipped with the proper gear, obtain all necessary permits, and ideally, travel with an experienced guide familiar with the region's unique challenges and beauty.