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Upper Dolpo To Jomsom Trekking

  • Trip Code Icon Trip Code: DOLPO
  • Calendar Icon Trip Duration: 27 Days
  • Destination Icon Destination: Dolpa
  • Group Size Icon Group Size: 2+
  • Season Icon Season: jun-sep
  • Max Altitude Icon Max Altitude: 5370
  • Trip Start/End Icon Trip Starts/Ends: Kathmandu
  • Transportation Icon Transportation: Bus
  • Accommodation Icon Accommodation: Lodges/Tent
  • Trip Grade Icon Trip Grade: Medium

OVERVIEW

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.

Upper Dolpa Trekking – Essential Information

🌤️ Best Season for Upper Dolpo Trek

    • 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.


🧗 Upper Dolpo Trek Difficulty

    • 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.


🏔️ Altitude Sickness Awareness

The trek reaches elevations above 5,000 meters, increasing the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Common Symptoms:

    • Headache

    • Nausea

    • Dizziness/light-headedness

    • Fatigue or weakness

    • Loss of appetite

    • Difficulty sleeping

    • Vomiting (in serious cases)

Prevention & Action Steps:

    1. Inform your guide immediately

    2. Rest and hydrate (3–4 liters of water per day)

    3. Take Diamox (under guidance)

    4. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and smoking

    5. Consume ginger tea or garlic soup

       


🏨 Accommodation, Food & Transportation

🛏️ Accommodation:

    • 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

🍛 Food:

    • 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

🚗 Transportation:

    • Airport pickup/drop via private vehicle

    • Public transport or domestic flights arranged for:

      • Kathmandu → Dunai

      • Jomsom → Pokhara

      • Pokhara → Kathmandu


🛡️ Travel Insurance

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.


🌄 What to Expect on the Upper Dolpo Trek

This trek is both challenging and deeply rewarding—perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts.

🏞️ Scenic Transformation:

    • Immediate shift from bustling cities to the peaceful, secluded Dolpo region

🧭 Trekking Terrain & Culture:

    • 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

🌊 Natural Beauty:

    • Thulo Bheri River

    • Phoksundo Lake – turquoise, tranquil, and mesmerizing

🐾 Wildlife & Local Culture:

    • Possible sightings of blue sheep, snow leopards, and grey langurs

    • Warm hospitality of Magar, Gurung, and other ethnic communities

🍲 Local Cuisine:

    • Meals prepared with fresh local ingredients

    • A blend of cultural taste and nourishment

🌦️ Prepare for the Unexpected:

    • Be ready for unpredictable weather and awe-inspiring moments

    • Embrace the surprises – they make this trek an adventure of a lifetime.

ITINENARY

Itinerary of Upper Dolpo To Jomsom Trekking

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

Route Map 1

Cost Includes

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off for international flights via private transportation
  • Assistance with departure arrangements (international)
  • Comprehensive trek briefing and trip coordination
  • Assistance with reconfirmation of flights
  • Visa extension services (if necessary)
  • Option for extra tours (cultural or short hikes) before trek departure
  • Public vehicles for all surface transfers, including:
  • o Kathmandu–Dunai transfer o All trek-region pick-ups and drop-offs
  • 3 nights in Kathmandu at a standard hotel with breakfast
  • 23 nights in mountain lodges (twin-sharing basis) in the best available local tea houses or camps during the trek
  • Clean and comfortable lodging in remote trekking areas
  • Full board meals during the trek: 0 27 Breakfasts, 27 Lunches, and 27 Dinners o Meals selected from lodge menus (local and basic Western cuisine)
  • Hot tea or coffee with every meal
  • Licensed, experienced English-speaking trek guide
  • 1 assistant guide for every 5 trekkers
  • 1 porter for every 2 trekkers, carrying up to 20–25 kg
  • All staff are covered with: o Salary, meals, accommodation, equipment, trekking gear, and accidental insurance
  • Warm down jacket
  • Four-season sleeping bag (Items must be returned after the trip)
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) (Please bring 2 passport-sized photos for processing)
  • Restricted Area Permit for Upper Dolpa
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit
  • Trekking route map (Annapurna/Dolpa region)
  • Group first-aid kit carried by the guide
  • Emergency coordination support (including evacuation if needed)
  • All applicable government taxes, trekking permit fees, and official service charges

Cost Excludes

More Information

  • Yes, we offer a flexible approach to cater to your individual needs. If you wish to extend or shorten your days in Nepal or modify the itinerary in any way, just let us know. We will do our best to accommodate your requests and ensure you have a tailored experience.
  • While Wi-Fi is available in Kathmandu ,Pokhara, & Jomsom internet connections become increasingly unreliable as you move toward more rural areas. Some guesthouses may offer Wi-Fi, but there will likely be an additional charge of around USD 2 to 3 per hour. For connectivity, you can use NTC or NCELL SIM cards, which offer affordable data packages. However, be prepared for limited or spotty internet access as you gain altitude.
  • ATMs are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but not in remote areas. Very few villages may have ATMs, but we strongly recommend withdrawing cash in the cities before heading into the more remote parts of the trek. The banking infrastructure in these regions is limited, so it’s advisable to carry sufficient Nepali Rupees in cash for the duration of your trek.
  • We do not recommend trekking solo in Upper Dolpa, as it is a restricted region. According to new regulations, all trekkers must be accompanied by a certified guide. For your safety and to ensure assistance in case of emergencies, we strongly suggest traveling with a guide who is familiar with the terrain and local conditions.
  • Yes, we reserve accommodation in advance, particularly during the peak trekking season. This helps ensure you have a room reserved for each night of the trek, as last-minute bookings can sometimes be challenging, especially in remote areas. Pre-booking guarantees that you will have a place to stay during your journey.
  • hile tipping is not mandatory, it is highly appreciated by the team for their hard work and dedication. A common guideline is to tip your guide and porter 10-20% of the total trek cost or an amount that reflects your satisfaction with their service. Tipping is an excellent way to show appreciation for their effort and commitment to your safety and comfort.
  • Yes, safe drinking water is available along the trek. You can request hot water at lodges during the trek. For camping, our team will boil water for you or treat it with iodine tablets. While mineral water bottles are available for purchase, we recommend avoiding plastic bottles for environmental reasons. We also suggest carrying water purification tablets as a backup to ensure safe hydration during your trek.
  • Yes, camping during the Upper Dolpa trek is completely safe. Our dedicated and honest staff are committed to your safety at all times. Your certified guide is trained to handle emergencies and ensure a smooth experience. However, to enhance your safety: • Keep personal belongings inside the tent and never leave valuables unattended. • Avoid bringing valuable jewelry or large amounts of cash. • Our team will provide nighttime security by guarding the campsite in turns. Your safety is our priority, and we take every measure to ensure you have a secure and memorable trekking experience.
  • Trip Code: DOLPO
  • Trip Duration: 27 Days
  • Destination: Dolpa
  • Group Size: 2+
  • Season: jun-sep
  • Max Altitude: 5370
  • Trip Starts/Ends: Kathmandu
  • Transportation: Bus
  • Accomodation: Lodges/Tent
  • Trip Grade: Medium