Upper Dolpo Trek
The Upper Dolpo Trek is one of the most remote, mystical, and culturally rich trekking experiences in Nepal. Located in the far western region, this trek takes you deep into a hidden Himalayan world that remained isolated from modern influence for centuries. Famous for its connection to Tibetan Bon Buddhism, ancient monasteries, and dramatic high-altitude landscapes, Upper Dolpo feels like stepping back in time.
Trip Overview
- Duration: 20–25 days
- Maximum Elevation: 5,360 m (Kang La Pass)
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Region: Dolpo Region, Western Nepal
- Starting Point: Juphal
- Ending Point: Juphal
- Permit Required: Yes (Restricted Area)
Travel Timeline (Typical 22-Day Itinerary)
- Day 1: Fly Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
- Day 2: Fly Nepalgunj to Juphal, trek to Dunai
- Day 3: Trek to Tarakot
- Day 4: Trek to Laini Odar
- Day 5: Trek to Nawarpani
- Day 6: Trek to Dho Tarap
- Day 7: Acclimatization day at Dho Tarap
- Day 8: Trek to Tokyu
- Day 9: Trek to Saldang
- Day 10: Trek to Yangze Gompa
- Day 11: Trek back to Saldang
- Day 12: Trek to Khoma La Base Camp
- Day 13: Cross Khoma La Pass and trek to Shey Gompa
- Day 14: Acclimatization day at Shey Gompa
- Day 15: Trek to Namgung
- Day 16: Trek to Saldang via high pass
- Day 17: Trek to Dho Tarap
- Day 18: Trek to Tarakot
- Day 19: Trek to Dunai
- Day 20: Trek to Juphal
- Day 21: Fly to Nepalgunj
- Day 22: Return to Kathmandu
Trekking Route
The Upper Dolpo Trek begins with flights to Nepalgunj and Juphal, followed by a long trek through the Thuli Bheri and Tarap river valleys. The route passes through ancient Bon and Buddhist villages such as Dho Tarap, Tokyu, and Saldang, before reaching sacred sites like Shey Gompa. High passes such as Khoma La and Kang La provide dramatic views of snow-covered peaks and barren Tibetan plateau landscapes.
Major Highlights
- Exploration of remote Tibetan-influenced villages
- Shey Gompa – one of the oldest monasteries in Dolpo
- Bon religion and ancient Himalayan culture
- High mountain passes over 5,000 meters
- Raw, untouched Himalayan wilderness
- Minimal tourism and complete isolation
Cultural Experience
Upper Dolpo is a stronghold of the ancient Bon religion, predating Tibetan Buddhism. Life here revolves around monasteries, seasonal farming, and yak herding. Prayer flags, mani walls, chortens, and centuries-old traditions dominate everyday life, offering trekkers a rare cultural immersion unlike anywhere else in Nepal.
Accommodation & Food
Accommodation in Upper Dolpo is very basic. Trekkers usually camp for most of the journey, with occasional stays in simple village lodges in places like Dho Tarap and Saldang. Meals are prepared by trekking staff and include rice, lentils, potatoes, noodles, soups, and Tibetan-style bread. Supplies are carried from lower regions due to the extreme remoteness.
Difficulty & Fitness Level
This trek is challenging and suitable only for experienced trekkers. Long walking days, high altitude, cold weather, and remote conditions demand excellent physical fitness and mental endurance. Proper acclimatization is essential.
Permits Required
- Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit
- Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit
Best Time to Trek
- Spring (May–June): Best for stable weather
- Autumn (September–October): Clear skies and dry trails
Why Choose the Upper Dolpo Trek?
The Upper Dolpo Trek is for true adventure seekers who want to experience Nepal beyond popular trails. Its unmatched cultural depth, extreme remoteness, and stunning high-altitude scenery make it one of the most exclusive and rewarding treks in the Himalayas.