About UPPER DOLPO TREK (24 DAYS)

Upper Dolpo is an ideal trek for those looking to explore the remote regions of Nepal that are relatively untouched by modern technology and culture. It is one of the remotest regions of Nepal and also one of the most underdeveloped. It feels like a forgotten place, removed from the hustle and bustle of the modern world.

On the first day, our staff will receive you at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu and take you to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day resting or visiting places like Thamel, Boudhanath and Pashupatinath. The next day, you’ll fly to Nepalgunj. Nepalgunj is located in the flatlands of the Terai region and serves as a transition from the urban life of Kathmandu to the more rugged and isolated surroundings of Dolpa. From Nepalgunj, a small flight will take you to Jhupal, the entry point to Upper Dolpo. The flight is a stunning introduction to the region, offering panoramic views of the distant Himalayas. As you land in Jhupal, the surrounding mountains start to close in around you, giving you your first glimpse of the dramatic beauty that defines Upper Dolpo. 

The trek from Jhupal leads you toward Dunai, the administrative hub of Dolpo. As you walk, you will pass through small villages, allowing you to glimpse at the simple yet resilient way of life in Dolpo. Dunai itself is a peaceful town, offering a chance to acclimatize to the altitude while learning about the culture of the Dolpali people, who are deeply connected to their Tibetan Buddhist traditions. From Dunai, you’ll pass through various small villages to eventually reach Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal’s most stunning natural sights. Surrounded by towering cliffs and lush pine forests, the lake’s crystal-clear waters offer a place for reflection and connection with the tranquil beauty of the area. Local residents often visit to perform rituals, adding to the spiritual energy of the location. On route, you will cross Kangla Pass and spend some time at the Shey Gomba, an iconic Buddhist monastery situated in a remote wilderness. Shey Gomba (meaning Crystal Monastery in Tibetan) is considered to be the most important religious monastery of this region. The Dopali people often come there to perform ceremonies and prayers. You will spend a whole day exploring Shey Gomba as well as the surrounding villages.

The trail then eventuallly takes you to the Saldang, a key village in Upper Dolpo. Here, monasteries and prayer flags flutter in the high-altitude winds, offering a glimpse into the spiritual heart of the region. From Saldang, you will pass through various villages to eventually reach another key village called Doh Trap. At approximately 4000 meters, Doh Trap is the world's highest human settlement. It consists of Doh Village as well as Lang and Tokyou, and they are collectively called Doh Trap.

The route then takes you through dramatic gorges and winding streams, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains like Kanjiroba Himal to a place called Tarakot. Tarakot is a place steeped in history, home to the Tarakot Fort, once a military stronghold. The final stretch of your journey brings you back to Jhupal, where a flight will take you to Nepalgunj and then back to Kathmandu.