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ASCENDDMC NEPAL
Upper Dolpo Trek, Nepal

Upper Dolpo Trek

The Upper Dolpo Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure into one of Nepal’s most remote and unspoiled regions.

Duration
16 days
Difficulty
Challenging
Max altitude
4,630 m
Region
Dolpo
Best season
Mar, Apr, May
Ideal for
Solo/FIT, Group

Restricted Area: Nepal requires a special permit, a licensed guide and a minimum of two trekkers for this route. Travelling solo? Join a fixed departure and we'll handle the rest.

Overview

The Upper Dolpo Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure into one of Nepal’s most remote and unspoiled regions. Located in the far western Himalayas, this trek offers breathtaking views, cultural immersion, and an authentic wilderness experience—perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path journey.

This high-altitude trek begins with a flight to Juphal, followed by a trek through picturesque villages, dense forests, and rugged trails. As you ascend, the landscapes transform into a high-altitude desert with snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes, including the sacred Shey Phoksundo Lake—a must-visit for its pristine beauty. The trek takes you to Shey Gompa, a centuries-old monastery that embodies the region’s spiritual heritage.

Upper Dolpo is home to the resilient Dolpo-pa people, whose traditions remain deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism and the Bon religion. Interacting with these communities provides a rare glimpse into a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.

This trek involves crossing high passes like Kang La (5360m) and Saldang La, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges. While challenging, the trek rewards adventurers with solitude, awe-inspiring landscapes, and an authentic Himalayan experience.

To trek in Upper Dolpo, you will need special permits and a licensed guide, as it lies in a restricted area. The best time to trek is during spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) for clear skies and moderate temperatures.

Experience the raw beauty of the Nepalese Himalayas, the serenity of Shey Phoksundo National Park, and the rich heritage of Upper Dolpo. This trek promises an unforgettable adventure into Nepal’s hidden gem.

Highlights

    Day-by-day itinerary

      What's included

      • All ground transportation including airport pickup and drop.
      • Three meals a day with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek.
      • Accomodation during the trek (best available twin sharing lodge).
      • Snacks of seasonal fruits
      • One highly experienced, government certified, friendly, helpful English speaking guide
      • Porters (1 porter for two people).
      • Food, accommodation, salary and equipments of guide and porters.
      • Duffle Bag for this trip.
      • Trekking polls for this trip.
      • First aid medicine kit.
      • All required government paperworks, TIMS and Permits.
      • Trip achievement Certificate.

      Not included

      • Nepal entry visa fees, which can be obtained at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu ($50 for 30 Days, Bring two passport size photo)
      • Meals not specified in the ‘Meal inclusions’ in the itinerary
      • All kinds of beverages including alcohol, water, coke, fanta, juice, etc.
      • Travel and health insurance.
      • Personal trekking equipments.
      • Additional costs by out of management control due to the landscape, weather condition, illness, changes in government. policies, physical condition etc.
      • Tipping and gratitude to the guides and porters.
      • Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the price inclusive section of this trek.

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