Upper Dolpo Trek

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About Tour Package

The Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek is a thrilling 26-day fully supported camping adventure into one of Nepal’s most remote and preserved regions, often called the “last enclave of pure Tibetan culture.” Starting and ending in Dunai (via flights to Juphal), this challenging loop takes you to stunning turquoise Phoksundo Lake, across high passes like Kang La (5,151m), to sacred Shey Gompa, and through ancient villages such as Saldang and Dho Tarap, with views of Kanjirowa and Dhaulagiri ridges.

Our package includes all domestic flights, restricted area permits, full-board meals on trek (with hot drinks), tented accommodation, experienced guides and porters. Prices range from USD 4,590 (10+ persons) to USD 5,590 (2-5 persons), making it an excellent value for this exclusive restricted-area trek. Best months: October-November and March-May for clear skies and stable weather. Contact us for 2026 departures!

Accomodation

As per Itinerary

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Transportation

As Per Company Managed

Group Size

2-10

Language

Nepali & English

Age Range

08-45 (Year)

Season

Spring Season

Highlights of the Tour

Nepal's Last Forbidden Kingdom: Trekking into a restricted, isolated region that maintains ancient Tibetan culture, untouched by modern development.
Shey Phoksundo National Park: Exploring Nepal's largest protected area, home to diverse flora and dramatic high-altitude landscapes.
Phoksundo Lake: Reaching the magnificent, deep-blue, pristine lake at 3,611 meters, framed by rocky cliffs and forests.
Trekking Above 5,000m: Successfully crossing three major, challenging passes
Shey Gompa (Crystal Monastery): Visiting the spiritual heart of Dolpo, an ancient 11th-century monastery and significant pilgrimage site.
Experiencing the unique fusion of pre-Buddhist Bon-Po religion and Tibetan Buddhism through local practices and monasteries (Gompas).
Dho Tarap Valley: Exploring one of the highest and largest inhabited valleys in the world, renowned for its traditional settlements.
Traditional Villages: Interacting with the local Dolpo-pa people in remote communities like Ringmo, Saldang, and Tokyu Gaon, and observing their ancient way of life.
Wildlife Spotting: Having the rare opportunity to sight elusive Himalayan wildlife, including the Blue Sheep, Himalayan Black Bear, and possibly the endangered Snow Leopard.
Dramatic Trans-Himalayan Landscape: Journeying through arid, stark mountains and valleys located in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, creating a Tibetan plateau environment.
Fully Supported Camping Trek: Enjoying a true expedition experience with a professional trekking crew (guide, cook, porters) providing high-quality tents, freshly prepared meals, and expert logistics.
Panoramic Mountain Views: Witnessing stunning vistas of major Himalayan ranges, including the Dhaulagiri Massif and Kanjiroba peaks.
High Waterfall: Seeing one of Nepal's highest waterfalls where the Phoksundo Lake waters cascade down.
Historical Trade Routes: Following parts of the ancient salt trade routes once vital for commerce between Tibet and Nepal.
Sense of Solitude and Accomplishment: Achieving a demanding physical and mental challenge in an area that sees few trekkers, offering genuine peace and wilderness solitude.
Remote Airstrip Flights: Taking exciting domestic flights into and out of the remote Juphal airstrip, offering spectacular aerial views of the mountains.
Kathmandu Cultural Tour: Starting the trip with guided sightseeing of the capital's UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Tour Itinerary

Expand All +

26 Days - Upper Dolpo Trek
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu & Transfer
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Met by guide and transferred to hotel. Pre-trip briefing in the evening.

Transport:

Private Vehicle

Meals:

Dinner

Accomodation:

Hotel (3-Star)
Day 02: Trip Preparation and Permit Finalization in Kathmandu
Spend the day finalizing trekking permits (including the special restricted area permit for Upper Dolpo) and preparing gear. You can explore Thamel for any last-minute shopping or relax at the hotel. Optional short sightseeing if time allows.

Transport:

None (day in Kathmandu).

Meals:

Breakfast.

Accomodation:

Standard hotel in Kathmandu (BB plan).
Day 03: Fly to Nepalgunj (150m) – Gateway to Western Nepal
Take a scenic domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj in the Terai lowlands. The afternoon is free to explore this warm, bustling border town or rest in preparation for the high-altitude trek ahead.

Transport:

1-hour flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj.

Meals:

Breakfast.

Accomodation:

Standard hotel in Nepalgunj (BB plan).
Day 04: Fly to Juphal (2,400m) & Trek to Dunai (2,150m)
Early morning flight to Juphal airstrip, the gateway to Dolpo. Begin trekking downhill through terraced fields and local villages along the Thuli Bheri River to reach Dunai, the district headquarters.

Transport:

35-minute flight to Juphal; trekking starts.

Meals:

Breakfast, lunch, dinner (full-board trekking meals begin).

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 05: Trek to Ankhe (2,660m)
Follow the Bheri River trail through subtropical forests, crossing suspension bridges and passing small settlements. The path gradually ascends with views of terraced farmland and local Thakuri villages.

Transport:

Trekking (6 hours).

Meals:

Breakfast, lunch, dinner + tea/coffee & hot water.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 06: Trek to Renje (3,104m)
Continue along the river valley, crossing side streams and entering narrower gorges within Shey Phoksundo National Park. The trail involves some ups and downs through pine and cedar forests.

Transport:

Trekking (7 hours).

Meals:

Breakfast, lunch, dinner + tea/coffee & hot water.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 07: Trek to Phoksundo Lake (3,600m)
A challenging day with steep ascents and descents through forested trails. Reach the stunning Ringmo village and finally the shores of the turquoise Phoksundo Lake, Nepal's deepest lake, surrounded by dramatic cliffs.

Transport:

Trekking (6.5 hours).

Meals:

Breakfast, lunch, dinner + tea/coffee & hot water.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 08: Exploration Day at Phoksundo Lake
Acclimatization and rest day. Hike around the lake, visit Ringmo village with its Bon and Buddhist monasteries, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Optional short hikes along the lakeshore for photography and relaxation.

Transport:

Short hikes (no full trekking).

Meals:

Breakfast, lunch, dinner + tea/coffee & hot water.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 09: Trek to Phoksundo Khola (3,507m)
Trek along the western side of Phoksundo Lake on a dramatic trail with steep drops and wooden planks. Cross floodplains and enter open meadows along the Phoksundo River valley.

Transport:

Trekking (6 hours).

Meals:

Breakfast, lunch, dinner + tea/coffee & hot water.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 10: Trek to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4,402m)
Ascend steadily through birch and juniper forests, following the Phoksundo Khola upstream. The trail leads to a high camp with views of rugged canyons and preparation for the high pass ahead.

Transport:

Trekking (7 hours).

Meals:

Breakfast, lunch, dinner + tea/coffee & hot water.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 11: Cross Kang La Pass (5,151m) & Trek to Shey Gompa (4,126m)
A demanding day crossing the Kang La Pass, the trek's highest point. Enjoy panoramic views of Kanjirowa and Crystal Mountain before descending to the sacred Shey Gompa, the spiritual heart of Inner Dolpo.

Transport:

Trekking (7 hours).

Meals:

Breakfast, lunch, dinner + tea/coffee & hot water.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 12: Rest & Exploration at Shey Gompa
Acclimatization day. Explore the ancient Shey Gompa (Crystal Monastery), hike to nearby tsok gompa, and immerse in the Bon-Buddhist culture. Contemplate the serene surroundings beneath Crystal Mountain.

Transport:

Short exploration hikes.

Meals:

Breakfast, lunch, dinner + tea/coffee & hot water.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 13: Cross Saldang La (4,785m) to Namduna Gaon (4,400m)
Cross the Saldang La Pass with views of Mustang and Tibet. Descend into barren landscapes to Namduna Gaon, visiting a local monastery en route.

Transport:

Short exploration hikes.

Meals:

Trekking (7 hours).

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 14: Trek to Saldang (3,903m)
Short and relatively easy day descending to Saldang, one of Upper Dolpo's largest villages. Observe traditional Tibetan-style houses and the mix of local culture influenced by trade.

Transport:

Trekking (4 hours).

Meals:

Trekking (7 hours).

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 15: Trek from Saldang to Yangze Gompa
Trek through arid high-desert terrain to the ancient Yangze Gompa, one of Dolpo's oldest Bon monasteries. Enjoy the remote, untouched landscapes and possible yak caravans.

Transport:

Trekking (full day).

Meals:

Trekking (7 hours).

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 16: Trek to Sibu (3,942m)
Follow river valleys and barren plateaus back toward the trail, passing small settlements and enjoying the vast openness of Inner Dolpo.

Transport:

Trekking (full day).

Meals:

Trekking (7 hours).

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 17: Trek to Foot of Jeng La (4,369m)
Ascend gradually along the river to the base camp below Jeng La Pass, through yak pastures and remote valleys.

Transport:

Trekking (full day).

Meals:

Trekking (7 hours).

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 18: Cross Jeng La (4,845m) to Tokyu Gaon (4,240m)
Cross the Jeng La Pass with stunning views of Dhaulagiri. Descend into the Tarap Valley to Tokyu Gaon, home to beautiful monasteries.

Transport:

Trekking (full day).

Meals:

Trekking (7 hours).

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 19: Trek to Dho Tarap (4,090m)
Short descent through the culturally rich Tarap Valley. Visit ancient gompas and observe the traditional lifestyle in one of the highest permanent settlements.

Transport:

Trekking (full day).

Meals:

Trekking (7 hours).

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 20: Trek to Serkam (3,630m)
Follow the Tarap Khola downstream through lush gorges and green valleys, a contrast to the arid Inner Dolpo landscapes.

Transport:

Trekking (full day).

Meals:

Trekking (7 hours).

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 21: Trek to Khani Gaon (2,550m)
Continue descending along the river, passing canyons and spotting wildlife like blue sheep in the narrowing gorges.

Transport:

Trekking (full day).

Meals:

Trekking (7 hours).

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 22: Trek to Tarakot (2,281m)
Trek through fortified villages and terraced fields, reaching Tarakot with its historic gompa overlooking the Bheri River.

Transport:

Trekking (full day).

Meals:

Trekking (7 hours).

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 23: Trek to Dunai (2,052m)
Return trail along the Bheri River, passing familiar villages and enjoying the lower valley's greenery and warmer air.

Transport:

Trekking (full day).

Meals:

Trekking (7 hours).

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 24: Trek to Juphal (2,404m)
Final short trek uphill to Juphal airstrip, reflecting on the incredible journey through remote Dolpo.

Transport:

Trekking (full day).

Meals:

Trekking (7 hours).

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 25: Fly to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj
Morning flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, then connect to Kathmandu. Celebrate the successful trek with a farewell dinner in the evening.

Transport:

Flights Juphal – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu (total ~1 hour 35 minutes)

Meals:

Breakfast.

Accomodation:

Standard hotel in Kathmandu (BB plan).
Day 26: Final Departure
Transfer to the international airport for your onward flight home, carrying memories of Dolpo's untouched beauty.

Transport:

Airport drop-off by private vehicle.

Meals:

Breakfast.

Accomodation:

None.

Starting From

$ 4,590.00_{/per person}

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Travelers

You can book for a maximum number of people 10

Adult
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Private Tour

Solo Traveler

$ 5,590.00

2–5 Persons

$ 5,590.00 00 Adult

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Small Group

$ 4,990.00

6–10 Persons

$ 4,990.00 00 Adult

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Big Group

$ 4,590.00

10+ Persons

$ 4,590.00 00 Adult

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Package Features List

Include Features

Restricted Area Permit Management: Full acquisition and processing of the necessary, costly government permits for the Upper Dolpo region.
Full Camping Logistics: All accommodation on the trek is in high-quality, weatherproof Tented Camps with sleeping mats provided.
Dedicated Support Crew: Services of a highly experienced, licensed guide, professional cook, kitchen staff, and sufficient porters for baggage transport.
Full Board Meal Plan: All meals during the trek (26 Breakfasts, 22 Lunches, 23 Dinners) prepared fresh by the camp cook.
Domestic Flights Included: All necessary internal flights: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, Nepalgunj to Juphal, and vice versa.
Acclimatization Protocol: Multiple dedicated rest and acclimatization days built into the itinerary (e.g., Phoksundo Lake, Shey Gompa, Dho Tarap).
High-Altitude Pass Crossings: Expert guidance across the three major high passes: Kang La, Saldang La, and Jeng La.
Shey-Phoksundo National Park Entry: Inclusion of the required National Park entry fees.
Cultural Sightseeing in Kathmandu: Guided city tour of key UNESCO World Heritage Sites on Day 2.
Accommodation in Cities: Four nights' hotel stay with breakfast in Kathmandu (3-star standard) and one night in Nepalgunj.
Safety Measures: Provision of a comprehensive first aid kit and an Oximeter to monitor blood oxygen levels at altitude.
All Ground Transportation: Private vehicle transfers for airport pick-up/drop-off and city tours.
Staff Welfare: Includes all staff wages, insurance, food, and accommodation.
Pre-Trek Gear: Provision of a Green Valley Nepal Treks duffle bag and map.
Guaranteed Departure: Flexible and guaranteed trip departure dates (upon booking).

Exclude Features

Travel Insurance: Compulsory—must cover high-altitude emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue) and medical treatment.
International Airfare: Flights to and from Nepal.
Nepal Entry Visa Fee: Visa obtained upon arrival at TIA (currently $50 for 30 days).
Trekking Gear: Personal clothing, sleeping bags (rentals often available), boots, and accessories.
Drinks: Alcoholic beverages, cold soft drinks, mineral water, and bottled juices (boiled camp water is provided).
Tips/Gratuities: Tips for the guide, porters, and kitchen staff (customary and expected).
Personal Expenses: Laundry, phone calls, internet access, battery charging, and personal shopping.
Unspecified Meals: Lunch and dinner while in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj (outside of the specified meal plan).

Suggested Equipment List

Daypack (20-30L): For personal essentials carried daily.
Duffel Bag (70-90L): For main gear carried by porters.
Trekking Poles: Highly recommended for balance and stability on rough terrain.
Headlamp/Flashlight: Must have spare batteries.
Water Purification: Tablets, drops, or a filter/Steripen.
Waterproof Hiking Boots: Must be well broken-in, with strong ankle support.
Thermal/Wool Hiking Socks: 4-6 pairs of warm, thick socks.
Camp Shoes/Sandals: For use in the campsite.
Gaiters: Recommended for snow and scree protection.
Heavy Down Jacket: High-quality, warm, 700+ fill power for extreme cold.
Waterproof/Windproof Shell Jacket & Pants: Breathable outer layers (e.g., Gore-Tex).
Thermal Base Layers (Tops & Bottoms): Moisture-wicking material (Merino wool or synthetic).
Mid-Layer Fleece Jacket & Pants: Insulating layers for warmth.
Trekking Pants (Quick-Dry): 2-3 pairs.
Moisture-Wicking Trekking Shirts: 3-4 pairs.
Warm Hat/Beanie: Wool or fleece for cold mornings and evenings.
Sun Hat/Cap: Protection from intense high-altitude UV radiation.
Insulated Waterproof Mittens/Gloves: Essential for high passes.
Thin Liner Gloves: For base layer warmth.
Neck Gaiter/Buff: Protection from wind, dust, and sun.
Sunglasses: High UV protection, essential for snow glare.
Personal First Aid Kit: Including blister treatment (Moleskin) and personal medications.
Water Bottles/Hydration Bladder: 2-3 Liter capacity.
Power Bank/Solar Charger: For keeping electronics charged.

Frequently Asked & Question

It is rated as Strenuous/Challenging. The difficulty comes from its long duration, isolation, demanding rough terrain, and crossing three major passes above $5,000$ meters.

The highest point is the Kang La Pass at approximately $5,360$ meters ( $17,585 \text{ ft}$ ). You will spend many days above $4,000$ meters.

Highly recommended. While not mandatory, prior trekking experience, high cardiovascular fitness, and understanding of altitude sickness are crucial for a successful and safe journey.

Expect to walk for 5 to 8 hours per day, depending on the terrain and altitude.

Yes, it is restricted. Solo trekking is prohibited. You must travel with a licensed Nepali guide and must be in a group of at least two trekkers (solo travelers must purchase two permits).

You need three main permits: the highly costly Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, the Lower Dolpo Permit, and the Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit.

The RAP is USD $500$ per person for the first 10 days, plus USD $50$ per person for each additional day thereafter. This is the largest component of the total trip cost.

No, access is extremely limited. Mobile network coverage is sparse to non-existent beyond the lower villages (Dunai/Phoksundo Lake). You will primarily rely on the guide's satellite phone for emergencies.

The trip involves two domestic flights: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, and then a connecting flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal, the trek's starting point.

This is a Fully-Supported Tented Camping Trek. Basic teahouses are only available in the lowest villages (like Dunai and Phoksundo Lake); throughout Upper Dolpo, your crew will set up fully-equipped camps.

A dedicated cook and kitchen crew prepare fresh, hot, and healthy meals throughout the trek. Expect hearty, nourishing food like Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), pasta, rice dishes, eggs, and bread.

No. You must purify all water. Boiled water will be provided at camp, but clients should carry their own purification tablets or Steripen for use on the trail.

The high cost is primarily due to the high government Restricted Area Permit fees, the necessity of multiple domestic flights, and the expense of running a fully self-sufficient camping expedition with a full crew for 28 days.

The all-inclusive package covers all permits, domestic flights, 3-star city accommodation, full camping setup, all meals on the trek, and the costs (wages, insurance) for the licensed guide, cook, and porters.

Mandatory Travel Insurance (with helicopter rescue cover), international flights, Nepalese visa fees, personal trekking gear, and staff tips/gratuities.

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Upper Dolpo Trek

About Tour Package

Accomodation

Meals

Transportation

Group Size

Language

Age Range

Season

Category

Highlights of the Tour

Tour Itinerary

26 Days - Upper Dolpo Trek

Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu & Transfer

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 02: Trip Preparation and Permit Finalization in Kathmandu

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 03: Fly to Nepalgunj (150m) – Gateway to Western Nepal

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 04: Fly to Juphal (2,400m) & Trek to Dunai (2,150m)

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 05: Trek to Ankhe (2,660m)

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 06: Trek to Renje (3,104m)

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 07: Trek to Phoksundo Lake (3,600m)

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 08: Exploration Day at Phoksundo Lake

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 09: Trek to Phoksundo Khola (3,507m)

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 10: Trek to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4,402m)

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 11: Cross Kang La Pass (5,151m) & Trek to Shey Gompa (4,126m)

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 12: Rest & Exploration at Shey Gompa

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 13: Cross Saldang La (4,785m) to Namduna Gaon (4,400m)

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 14: Trek to Saldang (3,903m)

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 15: Trek from Saldang to Yangze Gompa

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 16: Trek to Sibu (3,942m)

Transport:

Meals:

Accomodation:

Day 17: Trek to Foot of Jeng La (4,369m)

Transport:

Meals: