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Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo Trek Overview

Upper Dolpo Trek is a true expedition-style trek and overland adventure. Nepal’s most remote and restricted regions. The trip combines spectacular trekking, high Himalayan pass crossings, sacred lakes and monasteries, and a dramatic off-road traverse into Mustang, offering a complete and immersive experience of Nepal’s wild Trans-Himalayan landscapes.

The adventure begins with flights into western Nepal and a trek to the stunning Shey PhoksundoLake, followed by exploration deep into the isolated dry plateau of Upper Dolpo. The route crosses two major high trekking passes Kang La Pass (5,300 m) and Sela La Pass (5,094 m) leading to the sacred Shey Gompa and the ancient villages of Namduna and Saldang, where Tibetan-influenced culture and lifestyle remain unchanged for centuries.After completing the trekking portion, the journey continues by 4WD through some of the most remote roadless terrain in the Himalayas, crossing two dramatic high mountain passes  Sangda La (~5,100 m) and Charka La (~4,900 m) before descending into the Kali Gandaki Valley and reaching Jomsom in Mustang.

This trip is designed for experienced trekkers and adventure travelers who are looking for more than a normal trekking holiday. It involves camping, high altitude, long walking days, very remote terrain, and basic facilities, but rewards you with unmatched wilderness, pristine landscapes, ancient Buddhist culture, and a true feeling of exploration. The journey is physically demanding, logistically complex, and deeply rewarding a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan adventure that very few travelers ever experience.

Upper Dolpo Trek Itinerary

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Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel. After completing the check-in procedure, you can rest and relax at the hotel. In the evening you will be taken for a short stroll around Thamel, where you can find good restaurants, gear shops, money exchangers, ATMs, and much more. After exploring Thamel, you will be taken to our office for an explanation and short briefing of the trip. Overnight at the hotel. If your arrival is late, the briefing will be conducted the following morning.

Today you will be taken on a guided sightseeing tour around Kathmandu, which includes visits to Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa.

Pashupatinath Temple is a famous religious destination for Hindus one of the biggest Hindu temples devoted to Lord Shiva, lying on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River. It is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the visit you may witness the traditional Hindu cremation ceremonies performed at the riverbank, offering a deeply moving and culturally significant experience.

Boudhanath Stupa is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest stupas in the world in terms of size and height. The site is serene and spiritually uplifting, built on the foundations of Mahayana Buddhist philosophy and surrounded by monasteries and prayer wheels. After the tour you will return to the hotel to rest and prepare for the trek ahead. Overnight at the hotel.

Today we leave Kathmandu and fly to Nepalgunj, a warm town in western Nepal. The landscape changes from green hills to flat lowlands as we approach the Terai region. After arriving, we transfer to our hotel and relax. This is a travel and rest day, giving us time to prepare for the mountain flights and trekking adventure ahead. Accommodation: Hotel

Early in the morning we take a scenic flight to Juphal, one of the most exciting mountain airstrips in Nepal. After meeting our trekking team, we start walking through small villages and along the river valley. The walk is easy and pleasant, perfect for the first day of trekking. We camp at Sangta and enjoy our first night in the mountains. Accommodation: Camp

Today we walk deeper into the Dolpo region, following the river and passing through forests, cliffs, and small settlements. We cross suspension bridges and walk along narrow trails carved into the mountainside. The scenery is beautiful and wild, with waterfalls and deep gorges along the way. We reach Chhepka in the afternoon and set up camp in a peaceful forest area. Accommodation: Camp

This is one of the most beautiful days of the trip. We pass a spectacular waterfall and slowly climb towards the famous Phoksundo Lake. When the lake finally appears, its deep turquoise color feels almost unreal. We walk through Ringmo village and camp near the lake. The views, silence, and fresh mountain air make this place truly special. Accommodation: Camp

Today is a relaxed day to help our bodies get used to the altitude. We take short walks around the lake, visit the monastery, and enjoy the incredible scenery. You can sit by the lake, take photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. This rest day is very important before we go higher into the remote Upper Dolpo region. Accommodation: Camp

Today we leave the beautiful Phoksundo Lake and continue deeper into the wilderness. The trail follows dramatic cliffs and narrow paths, sometimes using wooden walkways fixed to the rock. The landscape becomes more rugged and empty, and we really start to feel how remote Dolpo is. We camp near Phoksundo Khola, surrounded by high mountains and complete silence.Accommodation: Camp

We walk into a high alpine landscape where trees disappear and the scenery becomes wide and open. The trail crosses small streams and rocky valleys, and the air starts to feel thinner. Step by step, we climb toward the base of Kang La Pass. By the time we reach camp, we are deep in the high mountains and ready for tomorrow’s big day. Accommodation: Camp

Today is the hardest but also the most exciting day of the trek. We start early and climb slowly to the top of Kang La Pass. From the top, the views are absolutely breathtaking. After celebrating and taking photos, we carefully descend into the hidden valley of Shey. By afternoon, we reach the sacred Shey Gompa, a very special and spiritual place. Accommodation: Camp

Today we cross another high Himalayan pass, Sela La, with stunning views of Crystal Mountain and the vast Tibetan plateau-like landscapes of Upper Dolpo. After reaching the top of the pass, we descend gradually into the wide valley of Namduna Gaon and reach this traditional village by afternoon.Accommodation: Camp

Today we walk across a high and barren landscape and slowly descend into the Saldang valley. The scenery is vast and colorful, with red and brown hills stretching far into the distance. Saldang is the biggest village in Upper Dolpo and an important center for local life and trade. We camp near the village and experience the unique culture of this remote region. Accommodation: Camp

Today we continue walking through beautiful and quiet Dolpo villages. The trail passes mani walls, chortens, and fields where local people grow barley and buckwheat. Life here is simple and closely connected to nature and Tibetan Buddhism. We follow the river and gentle valleys and camp in the Koma or Sibu area, enjoying another peaceful night in the mountains. Accommodation: Camp

We start to descend today, and you will feel the air becoming warmer and easier to breathe. The trail goes through remote valleys and small settlements, slowly leaving the high plateau behind. By the time we reach Sulet Gaun, we are back in greener surroundings. This is our last full trekking day before changing to vehicle support. Accommodation: Camp / Basic Lodge

Today we begin our adventurous off-road journey by 4WD vehicle. The route climbs through extremely remote and wild landscapes and crosses the high and little-known Sangda La Pass. From the top of the pass, we enjoy vast views of the surrounding mountains and empty high plateaus. The drive is slow and rough but very scenic, and by evening we reach the High Camp area where we stay overnight in a very basic lodgeor camp.Accommodation: Camp / Basic Lodge

Today we cross one of the highest and most dramatic off-road mountain passes in Nepal, the remote Charka La Pass, which connects Dolpo with the Mustang region. The drive offers incredible views of dry high-altitude landscapes, deep valleys, and colorful rock formations. After crossing the pass, we descend gradually into the Kali Gandaki valley and finally reach Jomsom by late afternoon.Accommodation: Lodge / Hotel

We take this day as a backup day in case you need in the mountain or jomsom-pokhra flight deley.

After an early breakfast, we take a short and scenic mountain flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, enjoying spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. From Pokhara, we connect with another domestic flight to Kathmandu. This is a relaxed travel day as we leave the remote mountains behind and return to the capital, where you can enjoy a hot shower, comfortable hotel, and celebrate the successful completion of your unforgettableUpper Dolpo adventure.
Accommodation: Hotel at Kathmandu

Today, you have a free day to relax, go shopping, or explore at your own pace. Enjoy your time as you wish. Overnight at the hotel.

After a late breakfast, begin your tour of Kathmandu, a city rich in history, art, and architecture. Explore the vibrant local markets of Asan, Indrachowk, and New Road, uncovering the city’s cultural and historical identity. Discover hidden places rarely visited by tourists, adding a unique touch to your experience. Next, visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, the heart of the city's architectural heritage. Here, witness the unique culture of the "Living Goddess Kumari" and visit her temple, offering an insightful and fascinating cultural experience. Explore the Old Palace and many unique temples before returning to the hotel for an overnight stay.If you want you can also skip the tour and relax on your own.

Our airport representative will escort you to the international airport for your departure flight to your destination. Safe travels !

Need Help? Contact Us Instantly

Ram Sapkota “Kamal”

Ram Sapkota “Kamal”

Founder Director
WhatsApp +9779851089497
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Upper Dolpo Trek

Overview

Upper Dolpo Trek is a true expedition-style trek and overland adventure. Nepal’s most remote and restricted regions. The trip combines spectacular trekking, high Himalayan pass crossings, sacred lakes and monasteries, and a dramatic off-road traverse into Mustang, offering a complete and immersive experience of Nepal’s wild Trans-Himalayan landscapes.

The adventure begins with flights into western Nepal and a trek to the stunning Shey PhoksundoLake, followed by exploration deep into the isolated dry plateau of Upper Dolpo. The route crosses two major high trekking passes Kang La Pass (5,300 m) and Sela La Pass (5,094 m) leading to the sacred Shey Gompa and the ancient villages of Namduna and Saldang, where Tibetan-influenced culture and lifestyle remain unchanged for centuries.After completing the trekking portion, the journey continues by 4WD through some of the most remote roadless terrain in the Himalayas, crossing two dramatic high mountain passes  Sangda La (~5,100 m) and Charka La (~4,900 m) before descending into the Kali Gandaki Valley and reaching Jomsom in Mustang.

This trip is designed for experienced trekkers and adventure travelers who are looking for more than a normal trekking holiday. It involves camping, high altitude, long walking days, very remote terrain, and basic facilities, but rewards you with unmatched wilderness, pristine landscapes, ancient Buddhist culture, and a true feeling of exploration. The journey is physically demanding, logistically complex, and deeply rewarding a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan adventure that very few travelers ever experience.

Short Itinerary

Day 1 :
Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2 :
Kathmandu Sightseeing (5–6 hrs)
Day 3 :
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150 m / 492 ft) – 1 hour flight
Day 4 :
Fly to Juphal (2,320 m / 7,612 ft) & Trek to Sangta (2,500 m / 8,202 ft) – Flight: 45 min, Walk: 3–4 hrs
Day 5 :
Trek from Sangta to Chhepka (2,800 m / 9,186 ft) – Walk: 5 hrs
Day 6 :
Trek from Chhepka to Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,600 m / 11,811 ft) – Walk: 6–7 hrs
Day 7 :
Acclimatization Day at Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,600 m / 11,811 ft) – Easy walks
Day 8 :
Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Sallaghari (3,800 m / 12,467 ft) – Walk: 5 hrs
Day 9 :
Trek to Kang La Base Camp (4,600 m / 15,092 ft) – Walk: 5–6 hrs
Day 10 :
Cross Kang La Pass (5300 m / 17,338 ft) & Trek to Shey Gompa (4,400 m / 14,436 ft) – Walk: 6–8 hrs
Day 11 :
Cross Sela La Pass (5,094 m / 16,713 ft) & Trek to Namduna Gaon (4,400 m / 14,436 ft) – Walk: 5–6 hrs
Day 12 :
Trek from Namduna Gaon to Saldang (3,900 m / 12,795 ft) – Walk: 4–5 hrs
Day 13 :
Trek from Saldang to Koma gaun (3,900 m / 12,795 ft) – Walk: 5–6 hrs
Day 14 :
Trek from Koma to Simat Gaun (3,000 m / 9,843 ft) – Walk: 5–6 hrs
Day 15 :
Drive from Simat Gau to High Camp via Sangda La Pass (5,185m / 17011 ft) –) than Drive from High Camp to Jomsom via Charka La Pass (5,015 m / 16,453 ft) – Drive: 8-10 hrs (Rough 4WD)
Day 16 :
Backup day
Day 17 :
Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (822 m / 2,697 ft) and Connect Flight to Kathmandu – Flight: 20 min + 25 min
Day 18 :
Free day at Kathmandu
Day 19 :
Love Kathmandu Tour or Free day
Day 20 :
Airport transfer.

Details Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu

Duration: 20 Days

Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel. After completing the check-in procedure, you can rest and relax at the hotel. In the evening you will be taken for a short stroll around Thamel, where you can find good restaurants, gear shops, money exchangers, ATMs, and much more. After exploring Thamel, you will be taken to our office for an explanation and short briefing of the trip. Overnight at the hotel. If your arrival is late, the briefing will be conducted the following morning.


Day 2 : Kathmandu Sightseeing (5–6 hrs)

Duration: 20 Days

Today you will be taken on a guided sightseeing tour around Kathmandu, which includes visits to Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa.

Pashupatinath Temple is a famous religious destination for Hindus one of the biggest Hindu temples devoted to Lord Shiva, lying on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River. It is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the visit you may witness the traditional Hindu cremation ceremonies performed at the riverbank, offering a deeply moving and culturally significant experience.

Boudhanath Stupa is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest stupas in the world in terms of size and height. The site is serene and spiritually uplifting, built on the foundations of Mahayana Buddhist philosophy and surrounded by monasteries and prayer wheels. After the tour you will return to the hotel to rest and prepare for the trek ahead. Overnight at the hotel.


Day 3 : Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150 m / 492 ft) – 1 hour flight

Duration: 20 Days

Today we leave Kathmandu and fly to Nepalgunj, a warm town in western Nepal. The landscape changes from green hills to flat lowlands as we approach the Terai region. After arriving, we transfer to our hotel and relax. This is a travel and rest day, giving us time to prepare for the mountain flights and trekking adventure ahead. Accommodation: Hotel


Day 4 : Fly to Juphal (2,320 m / 7,612 ft) & Trek to Sangta (2,500 m / 8,202 ft) – Flight: 45 min, Walk: 3–4 hrs

Duration: 20 Days

Early in the morning we take a scenic flight to Juphal, one of the most exciting mountain airstrips in Nepal. After meeting our trekking team, we start walking through small villages and along the river valley. The walk is easy and pleasant, perfect for the first day of trekking. We camp at Sangta and enjoy our first night in the mountains. Accommodation: Camp


Day 5 : Trek from Sangta to Chhepka (2,800 m / 9,186 ft) – Walk: 5 hrs

Duration: 20 Days

Today we walk deeper into the Dolpo region, following the river and passing through forests, cliffs, and small settlements. We cross suspension bridges and walk along narrow trails carved into the mountainside. The scenery is beautiful and wild, with waterfalls and deep gorges along the way. We reach Chhepka in the afternoon and set up camp in a peaceful forest area. Accommodation: Camp


Day 6 : Trek from Chhepka to Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,600 m / 11,811 ft) – Walk: 6–7 hrs

Duration: 20 Days

This is one of the most beautiful days of the trip. We pass a spectacular waterfall and slowly climb towards the famous Phoksundo Lake. When the lake finally appears, its deep turquoise color feels almost unreal. We walk through Ringmo village and camp near the lake. The views, silence, and fresh mountain air make this place truly special. Accommodation: Camp


Day 7 : Acclimatization Day at Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,600 m / 11,811 ft) – Easy walks

Duration: 20 Days

Today is a relaxed day to help our bodies get used to the altitude. We take short walks around the lake, visit the monastery, and enjoy the incredible scenery. You can sit by the lake, take photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. This rest day is very important before we go higher into the remote Upper Dolpo region. Accommodation: Camp


Day 8 : Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Sallaghari (3,800 m / 12,467 ft) – Walk: 5 hrs

Duration: 20 Days

Today we leave the beautiful Phoksundo Lake and continue deeper into the wilderness. The trail follows dramatic cliffs and narrow paths, sometimes using wooden walkways fixed to the rock. The landscape becomes more rugged and empty, and we really start to feel how remote Dolpo is. We camp near Phoksundo Khola, surrounded by high mountains and complete silence.Accommodation: Camp


Day 9 : Trek to Kang La Base Camp (4,600 m / 15,092 ft) – Walk: 5–6 hrs

Duration: 20 Days

We walk into a high alpine landscape where trees disappear and the scenery becomes wide and open. The trail crosses small streams and rocky valleys, and the air starts to feel thinner. Step by step, we climb toward the base of Kang La Pass. By the time we reach camp, we are deep in the high mountains and ready for tomorrow’s big day. Accommodation: Camp


Day 10 : Cross Kang La Pass (5300 m / 17,338 ft) & Trek to Shey Gompa (4,400 m / 14,436 ft) – Walk: 6–8 hrs

Duration: 20 Days

Today is the hardest but also the most exciting day of the trek. We start early and climb slowly to the top of Kang La Pass. From the top, the views are absolutely breathtaking. After celebrating and taking photos, we carefully descend into the hidden valley of Shey. By afternoon, we reach the sacred Shey Gompa, a very special and spiritual place. Accommodation: Camp


Day 11 : Cross Sela La Pass (5,094 m / 16,713 ft) & Trek to Namduna Gaon (4,400 m / 14,436 ft) – Walk: 5–6 hrs

Duration: 20 Days

Today we cross another high Himalayan pass, Sela La, with stunning views of Crystal Mountain and the vast Tibetan plateau-like landscapes of Upper Dolpo. After reaching the top of the pass, we descend gradually into the wide valley of Namduna Gaon and reach this traditional village by afternoon.Accommodation: Camp


Day 12 : Trek from Namduna Gaon to Saldang (3,900 m / 12,795 ft) – Walk: 4–5 hrs

Duration: 20 Days

Today we walk across a high and barren landscape and slowly descend into the Saldang valley. The scenery is vast and colorful, with red and brown hills stretching far into the distance. Saldang is the biggest village in Upper Dolpo and an important center for local life and trade. We camp near the village and experience the unique culture of this remote region. Accommodation: Camp


Day 13 : Trek from Saldang to Koma gaun (3,900 m / 12,795 ft) – Walk: 5–6 hrs

Duration: 20 Days

Today we continue walking through beautiful and quiet Dolpo villages. The trail passes mani walls, chortens, and fields where local people grow barley and buckwheat. Life here is simple and closely connected to nature and Tibetan Buddhism. We follow the river and gentle valleys and camp in the Koma or Sibu area, enjoying another peaceful night in the mountains. Accommodation: Camp


Day 14 : Trek from Koma to Simat Gaun (3,000 m / 9,843 ft) – Walk: 5–6 hrs

Duration: 20 Days

We start to descend today, and you will feel the air becoming warmer and easier to breathe. The trail goes through remote valleys and small settlements, slowly leaving the high plateau behind. By the time we reach Sulet Gaun, we are back in greener surroundings. This is our last full trekking day before changing to vehicle support. Accommodation: Camp / Basic Lodge


Day 15 : Drive from Simat Gau to High Camp via Sangda La Pass (5,185m / 17011 ft) –) than Drive from High Camp to Jomsom via Charka La Pass (5,015 m / 16,453 ft) – Drive: 8-10 hrs (Rough 4WD)

Duration: 20 Days

Today we begin our adventurous off-road journey by 4WD vehicle. The route climbs through extremely remote and wild landscapes and crosses the high and little-known Sangda La Pass. From the top of the pass, we enjoy vast views of the surrounding mountains and empty high plateaus. The drive is slow and rough but very scenic, and by evening we reach the High Camp area where we stay overnight in a very basic lodgeor camp.Accommodation: Camp / Basic Lodge

Today we cross one of the highest and most dramatic off-road mountain passes in Nepal, the remote Charka La Pass, which connects Dolpo with the Mustang region. The drive offers incredible views of dry high-altitude landscapes, deep valleys, and colorful rock formations. After crossing the pass, we descend gradually into the Kali Gandaki valley and finally reach Jomsom by late afternoon.Accommodation: Lodge / Hotel


Day 16 : Backup day

Duration: 20 Days

We take this day as a backup day in case you need in the mountain or jomsom-pokhra flight deley.


Day 17 : Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (822 m / 2,697 ft) and Connect Flight to Kathmandu – Flight: 20 min + 25 min

Duration: 20 Days

After an early breakfast, we take a short and scenic mountain flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, enjoying spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. From Pokhara, we connect with another domestic flight to Kathmandu. This is a relaxed travel day as we leave the remote mountains behind and return to the capital, where you can enjoy a hot shower, comfortable hotel, and celebrate the successful completion of your unforgettableUpper Dolpo adventure.
Accommodation: Hotel at Kathmandu


Day 18 : Free day at Kathmandu

Duration: 20 Days

Today, you have a free day to relax, go shopping, or explore at your own pace. Enjoy your time as you wish. Overnight at the hotel.


Day 19 : Love Kathmandu Tour or Free day

Duration: 20 Days

After a late breakfast, begin your tour of Kathmandu, a city rich in history, art, and architecture. Explore the vibrant local markets of Asan, Indrachowk, and New Road, uncovering the city’s cultural and historical identity. Discover hidden places rarely visited by tourists, adding a unique touch to your experience. Next, visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, the heart of the city's architectural heritage. Here, witness the unique culture of the "Living Goddess Kumari" and visit her temple, offering an insightful and fascinating cultural experience. Explore the Old Palace and many unique temples before returning to the hotel for an overnight stay.If you want you can also skip the tour and relax on your own.


Day 20 : Airport transfer.

Duration: 20 Days

Our airport representative will escort you to the international airport for your departure flight to your destination. Safe travels !

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