This trek offers a profound journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich regions — Upper Dolpo. Famous for its dramatic landscapes, sacred Shey Gompa, high passes over 5,000 meters, and traditional Tibetan Buddhist villages untouched by modernity, it is a true wilderness adventure. The trail eventually connects to Jomsom, offering a transition from Dolpo’s desolate highlands to the lush Annapurna region, making this trek both culturally and scenically diverse.
Monsoon/Summer (June to September)
Upper Dolpo lies in a rain shadow, so rainfall is minimal.
Cooler temperatures and relatively dry trails make it a viable trekking season.
Winter (Late December to February)
Challenging due to snow-covered passes and freezing temperatures.
Suitable for well-prepared trekkers with experienced guides.
Considered one of the most challenging and remote treks in Nepal.
Includes high passes above 5,000 meters, such as Kang La Pass and Shey La Pass.
Requires:
5–7 hours of trekking daily
Good physical fitness and mental resilience
Prior high-altitude trekking experience (above 4,000m recommended)
Pre-departure endurance and cardio training
Itinerary includes ample acclimatization days and is supported by a professional trekking team.
The trek reaches elevations above 5,000 meters, increasing the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Headache
Nausea
Dizziness/light-headedness
Fatigue or weakness
Loss of appetite
Difficulty sleeping
Vomiting (in serious cases)
Inform your guide immediately
Rest and hydrate (3–4 liters of water per day)
Take Diamox (under guidance)
Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and smoking
Consume ginger tea or garlic soup
Kathmandu & Pokhara: 2–3 star hotels (twin-sharing rooms)
Deluxe/single room upgrades available on request.
On Trek: Lodges/guesthouses and tented camps (Day 5 to Day 13)
Basic but clean and comfortable
Hot water may be available for an extra fee
In Cities: Breakfast included, lunch and dinner on your own (ample local dining options).
On Trek:
Three meals daily: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hot tea/coffee with each meal
Meals are nutritious, fresh, and hygienic
Alcoholic drinks are not included
Airport pickup/drop via private vehicle
Public transport or domestic flights arranged for:
Kathmandu → Dunai
Jomsom → Pokhara
Pokhara → Kathmandu
Due to the remote and high-altitude nature of the trek:
Comprehensive travel insurance is required.
Should cover:
High-altitude trekking
Medical treatment and hospitalization
Emergency helicopter evacuation
Essential especially during winter or in case of sudden altitude-related illnesses.
This trek is both challenging and deeply rewarding—perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts.
Immediate shift from bustling cities to the peaceful, secluded Dolpo region
Daily 5–7 hours of trekking
Rocky paths, narrow ridges, prayer flags, chortens, and mani walls
Rich Tibetan Buddhist culture
Views of Dhaulagiri and other Himalayan giants
Thulo Bheri River
Phoksundo Lake – turquoise, tranquil, and mesmerizing
Possible sightings of blue sheep, snow leopards, and grey langurs
Warm hospitality of Magar, Gurung, and other ethnic communities
Meals prepared with fresh local ingredients
A blend of cultural taste and nourishment
Be ready for unpredictable weather and awe-inspiring moments
Embrace the surprises – they make this trek an adventure of a lifetime.
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. You’ll be greeted by your
guide and transferred to your hotel. After checking in, you’ll have time to rest,
explore Thamel, or visit nearby attractions. In the evening, attend a briefing about
the trek, followed by a welcome dinner to meet your fellow trekkers.
Accommodation: Boutique Hotel | Meals: Dinner | Walking: None |
Distance: 0 km
Spend the day in Kathmandu, visiting iconic cultural sites like Swayambhunath
(Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square. These UNESCO
World Heritage sites will introduce you to the cultural and spiritual heart of Nepal.
In the afternoon, meet your trekking crew and prepare your gear for the trek.
Hotel | Breakfast | Walking: 4–5 hrs | Distance: ~10 km.
Embark on a scenic 2-day drive toward Dunai, the headquarters of Dolpo. The
journey through Nepalgunj takes you along dusty roads, with impressive views of
the surrounding mountains. As you approach the remote town of Dunai, the rural
beauty of Dolpo unfolds, offering a glimpse of the adventure that lies ahead.
Lodge/Guesthouse | BLD | Travel: 2 days | Distance: ~400 km total
Start the trek along the Bheri River. The path meanders through lush forests and past
remote villages, where you’ll witness the vibrant lifestyle of local Magar and
Thakuri communities. The trek offers occasional views of the surrounding
mountains and a peaceful atmosphere as you gain altitude toward your camp.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 6–7 hrs | Distance: ~14 km
Today’s trek takes you through dense pine forests and over rugged terrain. As you
climb, the air gets thinner and cooler, and you’ll pass small Tibetan-style tea shops
along the way. The alpine landscape opens up as you approach the higher altitude,
offering glimpses of the majestic Himalayas in the distance.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 5–6 hrs | Distance: ~12 km
You’ll trek toward the stunning Phoksundo Lake, passing through the village of
Ringmo. The lake, with its striking turquoise waters, is a sight to behold, surrounded
by towering cliffs and lush meadows. Visit the waterfall at Suligad and enjoy the
surrounding nature as you hike the final stretch toward the lake.
Tent/Lodge | BLD | Walking: 7–8 hrs | Distance: ~17 km
Spend the day exploring the beauty of the Phoksundo Valley. You’ll visit the
Tshowa Monastery above the lake and hike nearby ridges for panoramic views. This
day is essential for acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the higher
altitude before continuing the trek. The serene surroundings are perfect for
relaxation.
Tent/Lodge | BLD | Walking: 2–3 hrs | Distance: ~5 km
Trek along the rocky edge of Phoksundo Lake and follow a narrow, winding gorge
into untouched wilderness. The journey takes you into a remote area, where the trail
becomes more rugged, and the landscape turns even more dramatic with towering
cliffs and pristine alpine terrain.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 4–5 hrs | Distance: ~9 km
Begin your ascent through barren alpine landscapes, with only a few scattered
herders’ huts along the way. The air is thin and the environment harsh, but the
majestic surroundings of rugged mountain peaks make the effort worthwhile. The
base camp offers stunning views and an intimate wilderness experience.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 3–4 hrs | Distance: ~7 km
Today’s challenge involves crossing the Nangdra La Pass, which stands at 5360m
(17,585ft). After reaching the pass, you’ll descend into the mystical Shey Gompa, a
sacred Buddhist site. The serene monastery is nestled in a valley surrounded by
towering cliffs, offering a spiritual and peaceful atmosphere.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 5–6 hrs | Distance: ~12 km
The trek today takes you across the Sela La pass at 5095m (16,716ft) to reach
Numgung Gompa. The pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and
valleys. After the pass, you descend into a remote valley where the monastery of
Numgung is located. This is an isolated but breathtaking place.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 6 hrs | Distance: ~13 km
This day’s trek leads you to Saldang, one of the largest and most culturally rich
villages in Inner Dolpo. Here, the Tibetan Buddhist culture is deeply ingrained, and
you’ll see chortens, prayer flags, and monasteries. The village is surrounded by
stunning mountain views and offers a glimpse into remote life in the Himalayas.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 4–5 hrs | Distance: ~11 km
Trek across wind-swept plateaus and ridges, passing small Tibetan-style villages
along the way. The route offers views of snow-capped peaks and wide-open valleys,
as you make your way to Khoma, a peaceful village nestled in the highlands. The
silence and serenity of the place are breathtaking.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 5–6 hrs | Distance: ~13 km
Today, you’ll cross the Nangla La Pass and descend into the quiet village of Shimen.
The pass offers spectacular views, and once you reach Shimen, the village’s calm
and beauty will leave you in awe. This village is surrounded by barley fields androlling hills, providing an idyllic setting.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 6–7 hrs | Distance: ~15 km
Trek through a wide valley to Tinje, one of Dolpo’s most historic trade hubs. Here,
you’ll see the remnants of the old airstrip used by traders. The village sits on the
edge of a plateau, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Its
traditional architecture is a visual highlight.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 7–8 hrs | Distance: ~18 km
A gradual climb today takes you through vast alpine landscapes. The area is sparsely
populated, with only a few yak herders in sight. The terrain is wild and expansive,
offering a sense of isolation and tranquility as you ascend higher. The stunning views
of snow-capped peaks surround you.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 5–6 hrs | Distance: ~12 km
The trek continues through isolated yak herder settlements and grazing pastures. The
air becomes thinner, and the landscape more barren. You’ll pass meadows where
yaks graze, and the mountains around you continue to loom majestically. The remote
atmosphere adds to the sense of adventure and rugged beauty.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 7–8 hrs | Distance: ~15 km
Crossing the Mola La Pass at 5030m (16,503ft), you’ll be treated to breathtaking
views of the Dolpo region. The descent from the pass takes you through rugged
terrain to Chakra Bhot, a seasonal settlement where you can camp for the night. This
peaceful valley is surrounded by dramatic peaks.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 6–7 hrs | Distance: ~13 km
The trek today offers gradual climbing through high-altitude meadows, passing yak
herder settlements along the way. As you approach Norbulung, enjoy the spectacular
views of distant peaks. This remote area is often described as a haven for trekkers
seeking solitude and pristine wilderness.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 7–8 hrs | Distance: ~14 km
A challenging day with two major high passes. First, cross Niwas-La (5120m) and
then Jungben La (5550m), both of which offer spectacular views. The day’s trekleads to Ghalden Ghuldun, a remote and wild campsite. The environment is rugged,
offering a truly untouched wilderness experience.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 8–9 hrs | Distance: ~18 km
You begin descending into greener valleys today. The air feels warmer as you leave
the high passes behind. Shanta is a peaceful village with lush, green valleys
surrounded by hills. The trek gives you a chance to relax and enjoy the changing
scenery after the challenging high-altitude days.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 5–6 hrs | Distance: ~12 km
Pass through cultivated lands and scattered homes as you continue your descent. The
village of Phalek offers a great spot for observing rural life in the lower reaches of
Dolpo. This area is rich in agricultural activities, with terraced fields and gardens
surrounding the village.
Tent | BLD | Walking: 5–6 hrs | Distance: ~11 km
The final trekking day of this epic adventure leads you to Jomsom, a bustling town
located in the Annapurna region. As you make your way to Jomsom, enjoy the
changing landscape, which gradually becomes more lush and fertile as you descend
into the Kali Gandaki valley.
Lodge | BLD | Walking: 4–5 hrs | Distance: ~10 km
Drive through the stunning Kali Gandaki valley to the beautiful town of Pokhara.
The journey is scenic, passing through terraced fields and the dramatic landscapes
of the Annapurna range. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you’ll have the afternoon free to
relax by Phewa Lake or explore the town.
Hotel | Breakfast | Drive: 8–9 hrs | Distance: ~155 km
Return to Kathmandu by tourist bus, passing through picturesque villages, rivers,
and valleys. Upon arrival, you’ll have the evening free to shop for souvenirs, enjoy
local delicacies, or attend a cultural show to celebrate the end of your trekking
journey.
Hotel | Breakfast | Drive: 6–8 hrs | Distance: ~200 km
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Reflect on the
amazing journey you’ve experienced in the heart of Nepal’s wild mountains, andcarry with you unforgettable memories of Dolpo’s rugged beauty and ancient
culture.
| Breakfast | Walking: None | Distance: 0 km