Upper Dolpo Trek (5,350 m)

Overview

The Upper Dolpo Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and least-visited trekking regions. Hidden behind the Dhaulagiri massif in western Nepal, Upper Dolpo remained isolated from the outside world for centuries and continues to preserve a unique Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient traditions, and an extraordinary mountain landscape.

Made famous by Peter Matthiessen’s book The Snow Leopard and Eric Valli’s film Himalaya, Upper Dolpo offers a trekking experience unlike anywhere else in Nepal. The route traverses vast alpine plateaus, remote villages, sacred monasteries, turquoise lakes, and high mountain passes while passing through landscapes that often resemble the Tibetan Plateau.

Due to its remoteness, restricted-area status, and limited infrastructure, Upper Dolpo remains one of the Himalayas’ last true wilderness trekking destinations. It is an exceptional journey for experienced trekkers seeking adventure far beyond Nepal’s popular trekking routes.

Trek Highlights

• Explore one of Nepal’s most remote and restricted regions
• Visit the spectacular turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake
• Experience authentic Tibetan culture and Bon Buddhist traditions
• Cross multiple high Himalayan passes above 5,000 meters
• Visit centuries-old monasteries and isolated mountain settlements
• Trek through landscapes made famous by The Snow Leopard
• Experience one of the least-visited trekking regions in the Himalayas
• Enjoy true expedition-style trekking far from the crowds
• Discover a unique blend of Tibetan Buddhism and ancient Bon traditions

Typical 24-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 2

Preparation and permit arrangements in Kathmandu

Day 3

Flight to Nepalgunj

Day 4

Flight to Juphal and trek to Dunai

Day 5

Dunai to Chhepka

Day 6

Chhepka to Ringmo

Day 7

Explore Phoksundo Lake

Day 8

Ringmo to Phoksundo Khola Camp

Day 9

Phoksundo Khola to Phoksundo Bhanjyang

Day 10

Cross Kang La Pass (5,350 m) and trek to Shey Gompa

Day 11

Explore Shey Gompa

Day 12

Shey Gompa to Namgung

Day 13

Namgung to Saldang

Day 14

Explore Saldang

Day 15

Saldang to Yangze Gompa

Day 16

Yangze Gompa to Sibu

Day 17

Sibu to Jeng La Phedi

Day 18

Cross Jeng La Pass and trek to Tokyu

Day 19

Tokyu to Dho Tarap

Day 20

Dho Tarap to Tarap Khola

Day 21

Tarap Khola to Khanigaon

Day 22

Khanigaon to Dunai

Day 23

Flight to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj

Day 24

Departure

Who Is This Trek For?

The Upper Dolpo Trek is designed for experienced trekkers seeking one of the most remote and culturally fascinating adventures in the Himalayas. Long trekking days, basic accommodation, multiple high passes, and limited infrastructure require good fitness, previous trekking experience, and a strong sense of adventure. In return, trekkers experience a region that remains largely untouched by modern tourism and unlike anywhere else in Nepal.