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Upper Dolpo Trek
- 20% deposit confirms your place; the balance is paid on arrival in Kathmandu
- Cancel 60+ days before departure and you lose only the deposit
- Licensed since 2004Government of Nepal
- 5.0 on Google89 reviews
- Fair porter loadsMax 25–30 kg, insured
- Secure paymentCard or bank transfer
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
Collapse All -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 !
Upper Dolpo Trek Cost Include/Exclude
What are Included In My Package ?
Airport Services
• International Airport Pickup and Drop off Services (Mountain Delights representative with name board for easy identification at the airport)
• All Domestic Airport Pickup and Drop off Services
In Kathmandu
• Three Star Standard Hotel accommodation with Breakfast in Kathmandu.
• All sightseeing activities in Kathmandu with a English speaking licensed tour guide, private transportation, and monument entry fees
Guides and Staff
• Experienced, government-licensed and authorized trekking guide.
• An experienced English speaking Assistant Guide
• A Cook, Kitchen boy and porters (Sherpas) to carry your bag and camping gear
• All wages, food, accommodation, equipment, medical and accidental insurance for the staff.
• Mules to assist in carrying bags and gears
Transportation
• 4 wheel drive in the remote area from sulet to jomsom
• All Required Land transportation.
Air ticket
• Kathmandu - Nepalgunj
• Nepalgunj - Juphal
• Jomsom - Pokhara
• Pokhara - Kathmandu
Meals and Accommodation during the Trip
• Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with tea/coffee during the trek in the Camp served by the cook. Foods are prepared fresh
• Camping/Tent accommodation for the trekking period including all tents and necessary camping gears
Permits and Entry Fees
• Upper Dolpo Special Permit(Restricted area permit)
• National Park permit.
• TIMS
Safety and Communication
• Satellite phone carried by the climbing Sherpa guide for emergency communication.
• 24/7Assistance to the guide and clients from the office
• First aid medicine box with oximeter to check your oxygen level
Additional
• Trekking and Climbing Route Maps
• Down sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, fleece liner.
• All government taxes, official service charges, and VAT
What are excluded from the package ?
Safety and altitude
Upper Dolpo Trek reaches 5,300 m, which is high altitude. Most people adapt well when they climb slowly, so the pace of the itinerary matters more than fitness alone.
How we pace it
The higher routes include acclimatisation days. Your guide checks every day how you are coping, can add a rest day, and will turn the group around if conditions or anyone's health make it unsafe to go on.
Know the signs
Headache, nausea, loss of appetite, dizziness and poor sleep are early signs of altitude sickness: tell your guide and do not go higher. Confusion, breathlessness at rest or unsteady walking are serious: descend at once.
Insurance and rescue
Travel insurance that covers medical treatment, air ambulance and helicopter rescue is a condition of booking. Check that your policy covers trekking up to 6,000 m. If an evacuation is needed, we coordinate it with your insurer.
Our crew
Our guides are licensed and come mostly from the mountain regions. Porters carry no more than 25–30 kg, are insured, and are never sent down alone when they are sick or hurt.
Booking and insurance terms · Ask us about fitness and acclimatisation for this trip
What travellers say
Rated Excellent by 500+ travellers on
Most recommended
Sep 2026 • Solo
Written September 1, 2026
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Most recommended
Travelled Sep 2026 · Solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tilicho Trek
Jun 2026 • Friends
Written June 10, 2026
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tilicho Trek
Travelled Jun 2026 · Friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Excellent Guidance and new experience
Jun 2026 • Friends
Written June 9, 2026
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Excellent Guidance and new experience
Travelled Jun 2026 · Friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tilicho lake trek - Annapurna 2026 : best experic
Jun 2026 • Friends
Written June 8, 2026
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tilicho lake trek - Annapurna 2026 : best experic
Travelled Jun 2026 · Friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My experience travel with Mountain delights.
Jun 2026 • Friends
Written June 8, 2026
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My experience travel with Mountain delights.
Travelled Jun 2026 · Friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Excellent service
Apr 2026 • Friends
Highly recommend this operator. They know the terrain well and are well connected to solve all situations which may arise. Customer service is at the forefront.
Written May 15, 2026
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Excellent service
Travelled Apr 2026 · Friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Viggo Wallin2 reviews
Amazing!
Date of experience: Mar 2026
Viggo Wallin2 reviews
Trustpilot review
Amazing!
Travelled Mar 2026
Exceptional support and a pleasure to work with
Date of experience: Nov 2025
Exceptional support and a pleasure to work with
Travelled Nov 2025
Fantastic adventure and Well organized
It was an adventure I Will remember for the rest of my life. I will recommand this firm to do the trekkings in himalaya as you can trust this experienced firm 100 pct.
Date of experience: Oct 2026
Fantastic adventure and Well organized
Travelled Oct 2026
Thomas Gordon Clausen33 reviews
We used Mountain Delight Treks to trek Everest Base Camp
Furthermore, the company’s owner, Ram, is overseeing everything and following all treks on a daily basis. It is clear that Ram and Mountain Delight Treks are doing their outmost to give their clients the best possible experience.
It is also important to mention our guide Tilak. He really did his outmost to make the trek as great an experience as possible. He was up early, worked late and was constantly explaining what we saw and passed on our way. It was also his initiative to change the route back due to a heavy snowfall. We could not continue along the planed route. Instead he arranged visits to several small villages “off route”. This was in itself a very interesting part of the journey. We met so many kind local people and got some very unique experience.
Date of experience: Oct 2026
Thomas Gordon Clausen33 reviews
Trustpilot review
We used Mountain Delight Treks to trek Everest Base Camp
Travelled Oct 2026
Trekking in Langtang Valley
Would highly recommend Mountain Delights. We had an amazing time trekking in the Langtang Valley. Our guide, Dipak Nepal, did a fantastic job and made everything run smoothly throughout the trek. We didn’t have to worry about anything. Our two porters were also incredible. We would love to go trekking with Mountain Delights again in the future!
Date of experience: Mar 2026
Trekking in Langtang Valley
Travelled Mar 2026
Kalle Edström2 reviews
Poon Hill and ABC trek
Right from the start, Ram was super helpful in the office, giving us clear info and a lot of time to help figure out what trek suited us best. Our guide, Geli Sherpa, was a great guy, very professional but also shared so much about his culture and even joined in on our card games in the evening. Our porter, Peam Sherpa, did an amazing job and we were so glad to have him with us.
The best part was Geli’s expertise. He noticed the weather was shifting and suggested we reach base camp a day early. That easy change gave us "crazy good" weather and an amazing sunrise and sunset. Even when our flight to Pokhara was 3 hours late due to weather, they handled everything so smoothly that we never felt stressed.
The whole trip felt very personal and safe. I’m already looking forward to my next adventure with them!
Date of experience: Feb 2026
Kalle Edström2 reviews
Trustpilot review
Poon Hill and ABC trek
Travelled Feb 2026
Travelled with us? Send us your review or post it on Google, Tripadvisor or Trustpilot.
Travellers
- 20% deposit confirms your place; the balance is paid on arrival in Kathmandu
- Cancel 60+ days before departure and you lose only the deposit
- Secure card payment (Visa / Mastercard) or bank transfer
Free, no-obligation enquiry. We reply personally. Full booking terms
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