Trip Details

  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Very Strenuous
  • Trip Style: Camping Trek
  • Transport: Private Vehicle & Flight
  • Food: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge & Camping
  • Group Size: 16
  • Max Elevation: Nagdalo La Pass (5350m)

Highlights

  • Old monasteries, Gompas, Chortens, and other Buddhist monuments in the Dolpo region.
  • Exploring the tranquil Shey Phoksundo Lake.
  • Meeting nomads guiding herds of Yaks.
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park and rare species like Musk deer and Snow leopard
  • Astonishing views of the Himalayas like Mt. Dhaulagiri range, Mt Api, Mt Saipal, and others.
  • Tibetan Buddhists people, their lifestyle, culture, and traditions.  

Description

It has only been a short while since the hidden kingdom of Upper Dolpo has been revealed to trekkers from around the world. If you decide to trek in the north-western part of Nepal, you have made a good decision. The Upper Dolpo Circuit trek is gracefully awaiting your arrival with a pouch full of exciting adventures.

You will be stepping up to newer steps towards heaven as you begin to trek from Nepalgunj. Your definition of wealth is definitely going to change. Wealthy is the remote villages in lower and upper Dolpo. The unique tradition and culture are their wealth. The exotic natural scenarios and purity of life add to their assets. 

Prepare to face some of the rare wildlife and plant species at the Shey-Phoksundo National Park. you will be walking over the wildest trails, dense jungles, wearing hats of bare rocky cliffs. While you are walking, you are seeing the unexplored trails and unspoiled originality.  

Imagine, you are standing nowhere with a far-fetched view of giant Shey Phoksundo Lake. You hear the bells of Yak herds approaching near. Your senses are softly touched by the mountain winds. Isn’t that amazing! This is Upper Dolpo. Aren’t you excited to trek to a dreamy world? 

Discover the undiscovered amazements in Upper Dolpa with Mount Mania. In 24 days, we will take you to the beautiful land of Upper Dolpo. Crossing many high altitude passes is a highlight of this trek. These passes not just make the trek strenuous but also add excitements to the journey. 

Upper Dolpo region is well known for von Buddhism. You will see several Buddhist shrines including Buddhist gompas and monasteries. People in Upper Dolpo migrated from Tibet a long time back. They continue to practice their traditions and culture without modifications. Thus, you will see the direct influence of the Tibetan lifestyle on the lifestyle of people here. 

Upper Dolpo region is a restricted trekking region in Nepal. In order to trek there, you must get a restricted area permit. To obtain the permit you should fulfill several rules by the government of Nepal. If you are a solo trekker, you should know that solo trekking is not possible in Upper Dolpo. In fact, you should go with a team of at least two trekkers. Along with that, you should hire an experienced guide or a porter. 

You can rely on Mount Mania. We are a bunch of experienced trekkers who will help you have a successful trek in any part of Nepal. We will help you arrange the trekking permits. We have experienced guides and permits who will go with you on the trek. 

Contact Us if you have any queries regarding Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek. Serving you is our purpose, your safety and satisfaction is our concern. 

23 Days Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek Itinerary

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The first day is a trek preparation day. We will meet at our office. There, we will hold a short discussion about your trek. You can introduce to our official team members and your trekking team. If you want to buy some trekking gears, we will help you buy them. 

In the evening, you can go around Thamel. Thamel is a popular touristic hub in Kathmandu. The bright streets, live music, clubs, pubs, at Thamel can be something you want before going to remote trek. 

  • Altitude: 1320m

On this day we will take a domestic flight to Nepalgunj. From Tribhuvan International airport, we will board on a flight to Nepalgunj. The total distance from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj is ‎366. It will take us about an hour to reach there on a plane.

The flight is scenic. You will be flying over several rivers, valleys, and changing landscapes. Overnight at a lodge in Nepalgunj. 

Flight Duration: 60 minutes

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Altitude: 366m

We will have breakfast at the lodge. From there, we will walk or drive to the airport. From Nepalgunj, we will again take a domestic flight to Juphal. Juphal is the only airport in Dolpa. From Juphal, we will begin to trek. The trek is exciting. We will walk to a small town called Suli Ghat. This place sits beside a riverbank. Here you can find some lodges. Overnight at lodge in Suli Ghat. 

Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Altitude: 2070m

After having breakfast at the lodge in Suli Ghat, we will begin to trek. Crossing the Suli Bridge, we will make our way towards Renje. The Suli River is a beautiful river that flows down a beautiful gorge. We will trek across many villages. We will walk through the stone houses in Jyalhasa. In these villages, people migrate during winter from upper Dolpo regions along with their cattle.

We will meet a stream called Anke Khola on our way to Chhepka. From there, the trail passes through amazing jungles of bamboo and conifer. After the forested section, we will see the gorge opening up wide. Then, the trail becomes easier. There is a bridge on the trail just before Renje. Walking through the splendid trekking trails for a few hours, you will reach Renje. 

Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tented Camps
  • Altitude: 3010m

We will have a good morning breakfast in our tent kitchen. Then, we will make our way towards the Ringmo village. From Ringmo village, the valley narrows down. We will take several ascends and towns. We will meet the confluence of two rivers: Phoksundo and Pungmo River. Samduwa lies at the confluence.

We will walk further over the exciting trails. On the way, we will see a large waterfall. You can take some pictures at the waterfall. From there, we will walk to Ringmo. We will see beautiful Shey Phoksundo lake on our way. On approaching near the village, we will see a beautiful valley surrounded by walls of rock.

The village lies by the side of Phoksundo Lake. Staying here is an amazing thing to do. You will love the afternoon there. Tent accommodation in Ringmo village.

Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tented Camps
  • Altitude: 3620m

Today is our first acclimatization day. We have walked all the way up to Shey Phoksundo Lake, 3611 meters. For acclimatization, we will walk around the Ringmo village. Doing this, we can get an insight into the very unique way of life at the village. The village here is directly influenced by Tibetan culture. People living around Shey Phoksundo lake were Tibetan inhabitants who migrated here a long time ago.

We will explore the turquoise colored Shey Phoksundo Lake. A short hike near the Ringmo village and you will reach a Tibetan Buddhist Monastery. We will visit the monastery where we can see portrayals of von Buddhism.

Overnight in tent at Ringmo village.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tented Camps
  • Altitude: 3620m

We will have a warm and filling breakfast in our tent kitchen. Then, with beautiful views of Shey Phoksundo lake, we will trek over splendid trails. The trail is narrow at places. You will meet with the herd of Yaks. You should be really careful while they are approaching near.

After trekking for several hours, we will reach Phoksundo Khola. We will set our tents at the campsite and will stay there overnight.

 Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tented Camps
  • Altitude: 3630m

Today we will trek to the Phoksundo Bhanjyang. The trek is as exciting as of the other days. You will see splendid sceneries around. You will meet the traders guiding Yak caravans. The trails are remote, rugged, and are adventurous. Be more careful while you trek. After hours of walking, we will reach the Phoksundo Bhanjyang. We will set a camp there and will stay overnight.

Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tented Camps
  • Altitude: 4120m

Today, we will cross the first pass on our trek, The Kang La pass. Starting from Phoksundo Bhanjyang, we will continue on the trekking trails. After a few hours of walk, we will reach the Nagdalo La Pass (5350m). Crossing this pass is a challenge.

You must be really careful. The trails are highly rugged. And, there also prevails the risk of altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water and walk slow.

Crossing the pass, we will trek towards Shey Gompa. Today is a long and tiring day. After all, it’s a day of crossing the high pass. We will stay overnight in Shey Gumpa.

Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Altitude: 4340m

Yesterday we did a high pass. And tomorrow is again a high pass day. A day between these tiring days should be a rest day. Today is our second acclimatization day. On this day, we will explore the Shey Gompa. Shey Gompa is a famous monastery in Upper Dolpo region where lots of devotees visit yearly.

Overnight at tent in Shey Gompa.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Altitude: 4340m

It’s again a high pass day. We will start early after a nice breakfast. We don't want to be late reaching top of the pass. It might get windy or the views might hide inside clouds if we reach there late.

We will follow the trail through amazing Juniper forest. We will walk uphill and will climb the beautiful trail to Sela La Pass (5090m). From the top, we can enjoy the amazing views of the surrounding. Then we will trek down the pass towards Namduna Gaun.

This is a beautiful village with a beautiful monastery. Overnight in a teahouse at Nam Gung. 

Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Altitude: 4430m

We will start to trek from Nam Gung towards Sal Dang. The trail passes through exotic landscapes, quiet and wonderful. Enjoying the splendid trekking trails, we will walk further.

Sal Dang is the largest village in Dolpo. There are around 80 houses in the village. In ancient times, Sal Dang was an independent kingdom of Dolpo.

Overnight in Saldang.

Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Altitude: 3620m

After having breakfast, we will begin to trek. Today, we will trek to the inner parts of Upper Dolpo. We will walk through several villages like Tiling and Lurigaun. People in Upper Dolpo have their own culture and traditions. You will see men, women, and children wearing their attractive traditional attires.

Walking for several hours, we will reach the campsite in Yangze. We will stay overnight there in a teahouse.

Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Altitude: 4960m

There are two routes from Yangze to Sibu. We will take the shorter route by retracing our way back to Saldang village. From there, we will head towards Sibu. Being a shorter trail, this will save your time and energy.

From Samdo, we will trek towards Namdo village. On the way, we will walk across the Chaiba monastery. We will also meet Nam Kong Khola on our way. From the river, we will reach Sibu in a couple of hours (approx). At Sibu, we will stay overnight.

(If you decide to choose the longer route to Sibu, you will walk through Nishalgaon and Shimengaon.)

Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Altitude: 4560m

The trek from Sibu to Jeng La Phedi starts following Nam Khong river. The trail is quite and is rough and rugged. You will see many Yak herds while trekking. The climb to Jeng La pass begins at a meeting point of two streams on the way. Today, we will climb up to Jeng La Phedi.

We will arrange our tents and will stay overnight in Jeng-La Phedi.

Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tented Camp
  • Altitude: 4900m

And today is the last day that we will be doing a high pass. Though the day is long and tiring, it is satisfying. The day starts climbing to the top of Jeng La Pass(5110). It will take us around two hours to reach the top. From the top of Jeng La pass, you will see great views of Mount Dhaulagiri.

After spending some time at the top, we will walk towards Tarap Valley. The descending trail is more exciting. Be careful while you walk down. After crossing the pass you will meet a stream. We will follow an exotic trail along the stream to Tokyu village.

From Tokyu village, we will walk over flat and easy trekking trails. Walking through the wide valley of Tarap we will reach Dho Tarap.

Overnight stay in Dho Tarap in a teahouse.

Trek Duration: 8 to 9 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Altitude: 4200m

Today is a rest day. You will have a whole day to explore the village observing the lifestyles, traditions, and culture. On this day, you can visit the gompas around. Dho Tarap is a place where the trek routes to Mustang, Jomsom, and Tibet meets. People here are Magars and Tibetans. You can see different monuments of Buddhism here. Here, people follow Bon Buddhism. There is a popular Bon Gompa above Dho Tarap. You can make a visit there if you want to. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Altitude: 4200m

We will begin by descending towards a wide valley. We will walk through the wide valley that narrows down gradually into a gorge. The trek route passes through some Juniper trees. Following the trail, we will reach the junction of Tarap Chu and Lang Khola.

From there we will walk further to reach Tarap Khola or Kama Kharka. We will stay overnight at Kama Kharka in a tent.

Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tented Camp
  • Altitude: 3800m

We will begin to trek by following the beautiful trail along the Tarap Khola gorge. The gorge narrows and widens at places. After hours of exciting walks through the gorge, we will reach Khanigaun.

At the campsite in Khanigaun, we will set a tent and stay overnight there.

Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tented Camp
  • Altitude: 3150m

On this day, we will trek to Dunai, the district headquarter of Dolpo. After having breakfast, we will set off on the rugged trekking trails. After walking for a certain time, we will reach Lalberi village. From the village, the trail passes into a lush forest and descends down to a gorge.

From there, you will follow the riverside trail to Tarakot, a small town. We will have lunch here. Tarakot was the capital of Tichorung Kingdom. Along with being a trading point, it had fortress also.

From Tarakot, we will begin to trek towards Dunai. We will follow the splashing Bheri River. Walking for several hours passing through the splendid surrounding, we will reach Dunai.

Overnight at a lodge or a teahouse in Dunai.

Trek Duration: 8 to 9 hours 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Altitude: 2020m

Most of the trekking trail makes its way alongside the Thuli Bheri river. Walking across several villages like Dhupichaur, Rupgad, Kalagaonda, and Motipur we will trek towards Juphal. The last day on the trek is exciting. Overnight in Juphal.

Trek Duration: 2 to 3 hours 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Altitude: 2320m

We will fly on a domestic plane from Juphal to Nepalgunj. Overnight in Nepalgunj. Prepare for your Kathmandu flight tomorrow.

Flight Duration: 25 minutes

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Altitude: 660m

From Nepalgunj, we will fly to Kathmandu airport. The one-hour long flight is scenic. It is interesting to observe the aerial view of the Kathmandu valley getting denser and denser.

After landing in Kathmandu, we will escort you to your hotel in a private vehicle. Overnight in Kathmandu. We will serve you farewell dinner on this day.

  • Altitude: 1320m

What to Expect

Cost Includes

  • Airport Pickup and Drop (Domestic Terminal)
  • Camping and Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
  • Round Trip Flight Ticket (Kathmandu, Nepalgunj, and Jhuphal)
  • English Speaking Trekking Guide with Insurance, Transportation, Food and Accommodation
  • Porter with Insurance, Transportation, Food, and Accommodation
  • Cooking Staff and Helper 
  • All Camping equipment like Tents and Kitchen equipment
  • All Necessary Trekking Permits (Upper Dolpo Special Permit, Shey Phoksundo National Park)
  • Use of sleeping bag & Duffel bag (if you don’t have your own, To be return after trip completed)
  • Daily seasonal fresh fruits after dinner 
  • A first aid kit carried by the guide (Oximeter to measure your oxygen and pulse in high altitude) 
  • All Government and Local taxes

Cost Excludes

  • International Flight Ticket and Nepalese Visa Fee
  • Hotel & Meals in Kathmandu
  • Extra night accommodation in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the trek (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Personal expenses (WiFi, Phone calls, Laundry, Bar bills, Battery Recharge, Water, Shower, and Tea / Coffee)
  • Other costs not mentioned in 'Cost Includes' section
  • Travel and Rescue Insurance
  • Tips for Guides, Porters, and Helpers

PRICES & DATES

Trip DatesAvailabilityPrice  
09 Jul, 2024 - 31 Jul, 20241 BookedAvailableUS$3100

Useful Information

Best Time for trekking in Upper Dolpo Circuit

The most popular times of the year for trekking in Upper Dolpo is during Autumn and Spring. These two seasons are the transition seasons between less popular Summer and Winter seasons. 

Autumn season is popular for its absolutely amazing visibility. Also, you can trek under good weather. The bright radiance of the sun will boost your energy. The turquoise blue lake of Shey Phoksundo will look beyond amazing. 

Spring is known for green meadows and beautiful flowers on the grasslands. The sky becomes clear. With the warmth of the sun, you will see the vegetation and wildlife coming back to life after a harsh winter. Also, the weather and temperature will remain suitable for trekking. 

Winter is the coldest time of the year. There are several high altitudes passes on Upper Dolpo trek. These passes will remain dipped inside lumps of snow. Crossing the passes in mid-winter is more than tough. The frequently changing weather adds complexity to trekking. 

Summer isn’t a good time to trek. Due to monsoon rain, the trails get very slippery and wet.  The trails are too dangers to trek in monsoon. 

Trek Difficulties During Upper Dolpo

Tent Accommodation:

Upper Dolpo is a camp trekking. At several places on the trek, there are no teahouses or lodge for overnight stay. At such places, there are campsites where you have to arrange your own tent houses and stay there. 

Many High Altitude Passes:

On our 25 days trek to Upper Dolpo, there are three passes above 5000 meters. Crossing the passes are tough and challenging. 

Altitude Sickness:

This is one of the difficulties that anyone on trek might have. You will be trekking to higher altitudes. At such places, the amount of oxygen in the air lowers gradually. As a result, you might suffer from altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water. Trek slow. These two tips will help a lot. 

Clothing and Gears:

Sometimes, the trek becomes tough due to inappropriate and inadequate trekking gears. So, before going you must have a look at packing lists for trekking in Nepal.