Upper Dolpo Trekking

Trip Information
  • Trip Duration 22 Days
  • Trip Grade Strenuous
  • Destination Nepal
  • Max. Altitude 5318m
  • Best Season Feb - May, Sep - Nov

Upper Dolpo Trekking Package 22 Days Itinerary and Cost 2023

Welcome Nepal Treks & Tour not only specializes on popular trekking holidays and tour holidays but also specializes on off the beaten paths. The most enthralling moments of having wilderness adventure during walking holidays can be achieved via off the beaten paths exploration. Upper Dolpo Trekking is one of the best alternative destination trekking routes of Nepal. The region was made famous by Eric Valie. In his documentary movie Caravan featuring local star late Thinley, Eric Vallie showcased majestic landscape and attractions of the region. There after the area is getting lots of attention from foreigners. Explore the deepest lake of Nepal Shey Phoksundo alpine fresh water lake and Shey Gompa spiritual monastery during this trekking in Nepal.

Upper Dolpo Trekking was not under the commercial trekking route until 1989. The place is undoubtedly hypnotic with its surreal charm and beauty. The area is located in the Himalayan barren rugged mountainous landscape. Lush green forests are hardly found in the area but the need of forests for the overall beautification of the place has been fulfilled by panoramic mountains seems to be striving towards paradise and hardcore topography. Strolling around Dolpo offers quintessential moments of socio cultural experiences of isolated rural villages. Various monasteries as well as wildlife like blue sheep, goat, snow leopard etc. endow effervescent moments of diversified holidaying. The time spent inside Shey Phoksundo National Park is no match for other nature’s exploration holiday trips. Spiritual Shey Gompa monasteries are place to offer prayers as well as getting blessings. En-route to this famous place of Nepal trekkers encounter high altitude pass of Numa La Pass. The crossing of pass is adventurous stuff while hilly trails before reaching the Himalayan belt definitely add bonus gloss to your trekking holiday.

Book diversified off the beaten trekking holiday package of Upper Dolpo Trekking with an experienced team of Welcome Nepal Treks & Tours. Trekking with us is always fun and informative. Therefore, don’t miss out on exploring the most alluring trekking destination of Nepal. 

Major Highlights

  • Enjoy stunning Himalayan mountain views and stunning landscapes
  • Explore Shey Phoksundo National Park with a variety of flora and fauna
  • A glimpse of rare wildlife such as snow leopards and blue sheep
  • Discover the unique lifestyle and culture of the mountain people.
  • Trekking through the waterfalls, rivers, picturesque villages, valleys and deep gorges
  • Explore the gorgeous Phoksundo Lake
  • Visit old monasteries and stupas
Itinerary
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On your arrival at Kathmandu Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and taken to the Hotel. Your first night you will spend in Kathmandu. Overnight at 3 star hotel (Thamel Eco Resort or The address Kathmandu Hotel)

  • Accommodation:Hotel

After having breakfast we will take you sightseeing around Kathmandu valley. You will visit many Buddhist and Hindu temple which reflect the local culture and tradition of Nepalese society. In the afternoon we will return you to the hotel. Overnight at 3 star hotel (Thamel Eco Resort or The address Kathmandu Hotel)

  • Accommodation:Hotel

Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (1 hour fly) to Juphal (35 minutes fly). O/N at Juphal at tea house lodge.

  • Accommodation:Tea House

The trail descends to the large village of Dangi Bhara and to Kala Gaura. The trail now remains close to the river on its south bank and reach to Roop Ghar with the water mill and simple lodges and finally reach to Dunai, large village with school, police check post and government office. O/N at Dunai.

  • Max. Altitude: 2150m

Following the trail eastward along the south bank of the Thulo Bheri and crossing north bank beyond Dunai and then south bank reach to Lawan finally reach to Tarakot. O/N at Tarakot.

  • Max. Altitude: 2550m

After a few ups and downs, you will cross the high suspension bridge at 2560m. Just above the bridge you will see Tarap Chu joins the Barbung Khola and then reach to Khanigaon, the village complete with Gompa. O/N at Khanigaon.

  • Max. Altitude: 2550m

From Khanigaon the trail leads to Lihini. Now the trail forwards sometimes on stone stairways and sometimes on a twisting bare-earth and reaches to the high point about 3650m. From here the trail slops down to Chukore. O/N at Chukore.

  • Max. Altitude: 3550m

Beyond Chukore the trail slopes down to Naurpani. Crossing several streams and bridges, passing the series of low caves the trail slopes down into the large yak pasture of Kamokharka. O/N at Kamokharka.

  • Max. Altitude: 4000m

From Kamokharka the trail set off across the meadow crossing several little streams and wooden bridge. Along line of Mani walls leads to the village. Finally you will reach to Dho. O/N at Dho.

  • Max. Altitude: 4130m

Head west out of Dho passing stone houses then you will reach the Crystal Mountain School. Beyond the school the trail leads uphill to the Tok-Khyu village (4180m). Then the trail crosses the Tarap Khola and finally reaches to Numa La Camp. O.N at Numa La Camp.

  • Max. Altitude: 4350m

The route crosses a small stream and makes a long climb along a moraine to Numa La (5318m).From the pass on a clear day you will see the Shey Shikar (6139m), Kenjeralwa and Dhaulagiri I (8169m). Descend from the pass into the U-shaped rocky valley and reach to Bang La Camp. O/N at Bang La Camp.

  • Max. Altitude: 4500m

The trail crosses the stream then climbs a slope and reach to Poyun Chu Valley and to Banga La (5190m). Dewscend from the pass and cross the stream and slant down the right-hand mountainside, finally reach to Sanu Bheri Valley. O/N at Sanu Bheri Valley.

    The trail downs to the meadow then descend into a forest reach to the yak pasture. Trek through more meadows, forest, and yak pasture then climb on a high Cliffside trail to a ridge at 3780m. There are the good views across the valley to the huge waterfall formed by the Phoksundo Lake. Then the trail descends gently through a blue pine forest and reaches to Ringmo (3730m) and near to the shores of Phoksundo Lake. O/N at Phoksundo Lake.

      From Phoksundo Lake the trail you will take the down valley trail through meadows and reaches a high p [point about 377om and descends very steeply to Palam (3230m) and then to Sumduwa where you will see the National park head quarters. The trail continues on the right bank of Pungmo Khola, finally reach to Pungmo Valley. O/N at Pungmo Valley.

      • Max. Altitude: 3304m

      The trail slopes down through trees to the riverside and comes to a chorten at the confluence of two streams. At around 400m you will see the band of rhododendrons. In the way the wedge peak is no longer seen but the mass of Kanjelaruwa can bee seen clearly. The trail climbs and reaches to Lasa Meadow. O/N at Lasa Meadow.

      • Max. Altitude: 4300m

      From Lasa Meadow the trail climbs up with magnificent views and finally reaches to Kagmara La. From Karmara La the trail descends quite steep and came to the head of Garpung Khola valley and finally reach to the camping area of Garpung Khola Valley. O/N at Garpung Khola Valley.

      • Max. Altitude: 4000m

      The trail forward following down the Garpung Khola Valley and descending quite steeply you come to a bridge and to Toljem (2920m) where you can see the army check-post. Just below the check-post cross the Jagdula Khola and walking sometimes you will reach to Hurikot, a collection of somber grey, flat-roofed. O/N at Hurikot.

      • Max. Altitude: 2600m

      Passing Kaigaon, Majgaon, and Rimi you will pass through the dense forest of holly oak, bamboo and tree juniper. After then you will reach to Chaurikot, a medium sized Khamoa village. Crossing several minor streams in the forest you will reach to Forest Camp. O/N at Forest Camp.

      • Max. Altitude: 3250m

      Leaving Mauria Bhanjyang descends among the rhododendrons and into the forest of birch, pine and oak you will reach the settlement of Naphukana. About 20-25 minutes later crossing side stream you will reach to Churta, a Tibetan village. O/N at Churta.

      • Max. Altitude: 3010m

      Leaving Mani Sangu you will reach to Gothi Chaur. From here the trail climbs to Pattyata Lagna (2830m) and to Dochal Ghara. The trail descends gently in a fertile valley and crosses the river and finally reaches to Jumla. O/N at Jumla.

      • Max. Altitude: 2370m

      Jumla to KathmanduYou have a scenic fly from Jumla to Kathmandu. Overnight at 3 star hotel (Thamel Eco Resort or The address Kathmandu Hotel)

      • Accommodation:Hotel

      After breakfast rest or shopping until your departure time, We will drop you at the airport by private car.

        What's Included
        • All the ground transportation by private tourist vehicles.
        • Flight fare from Kathmandu – Nepalgunj– Juphal – Nepalgunj - Kathmandu including airport departure taxes.
        • Full board meal 3 times a day during the trekking
        • Tea house and Tented accommodation and equipment during the camping trek. (We will provide two man tents, dinning tents, kitchen gear, dining table, chairs, toilet tents, shower tent.)
        • Deluxe hotel in Kathmandu  -accommodation as per the itinerary with breakfast
        • Comfortable private vehicle as per itinerary
        • Professional tour guide on day trip in Kathmandu.
        • Monuments entrance fees in Kathmandu city tour
        • Government licensed English speaking Guide and Porters to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter Between 2 Person basis), their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipments, and medicine.
        • Travel & Rescue arrangement.
        • Special Dolpo Trekking Permit 
        • All necessary paper work Permit)
        • Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card fees.
        • First aid medical kit.
        • Duffle bag, down jacket, sleeping bag and walking pole if necessary.
        • Farewell dinner in typical Nepali Restaurant with cultural dance show
        • All our government taxes, vat, official expenses & service charges
        What's not Included
        • International Flight, Airport tax and Nepal Visa fee
        • Major meals in Cities (Kathmandu)
        • All personal expenses such as bar bills, water, tea / coffee, snacks, shower, battery re-charge laundry charge etc.
        • Personal clothing and gears, sleeping bag and Down jacket for trek
        • Tipping (expected by guides and porters, but not mandatory)
        • Cost raised by flight cancelation, emergency rescue charges, landslide, weather, political unrest, illness, re-routing etc which are not under our control
        Useful Information

        Best Time for Upper Dolpo Trekking

        For the trekking in Nepal, spring and autumn are the best seasons. Similarly, for upper Dolpo trek also spring and autumn season are the best. Monsoon season is also good for the upper Dolpo trek as the rainfall doesn’t affect this trek. The least preferred season is winter.

        Upper Dolpo Trekking during spring season (March- May)

        The spring season is a good time for Upper Dolpo trekking. But the earliest spring is not recommended for upper Dolpo trek due to snowfall. The heavy snowfall might block the passes and make the trek difficult. You can do the trek from the mid April. The rhododendron will be blooming and you will witness the breathtaking mountains views.

        Upper Dolpo Trekking during autumn season (Sept-Nov)

        The autumn season is the best time for the Upper Dolpo trek. In this season you will experience good temperature with clear and bright skies, fresh environment and majestic mountains views. However the late autumn during November is not much preferred due to heavy snowfall.

        Upper Dolpo Trek during monsoon/ summer season (June-Aug)

        The monsoon season is also a good time for the Upper Dolpo trek. Most of the trekking in monsoon season is not recommended but for the Upper Dolpo trek monsoon is a good time. As upper Dolpo is located in the rain shadow area there is no chance of heavy rainfall, the temperature is also good and the high passes are also clear and snow- free.

        Upper Dolpo Trek during winter season (Dec-Feb)

        The winter season is the least preferred time for the Upper Dolpo trek in Nepal. The chances of heavy snowfalls are high and the temperature drop very low. Due to extremely cold temperate and paths blocked by snows this season is not recommended.

        Packing lists for Upper Dolpo Trekking

        You need to be well prepared with the right trekking gears for your Upper Dolpo Trek. Here are the lists of some of the most essential equipments/gears to pack for 22 days long Upper Dolpo trek:

        • Down jackets, , wind proof jacket, quick dry t shirt
        • Long sleeve shirt, trekking trousers, trekking boots, warm socks
        • Cell phone, cameras, torch light, power banks, water bottles
        • Hat, scarf, gloves, sunglasses, under wears
        • Sunscreen cream, moisturizer, lip balm, hair brush, etc.
        • Face wipes, quick dry towel, sanitizer, toilet paper
        • Sleeping bag, medical kits, water purification tablets
        • Extra money and many other necessary personal equipments and valuable accessories.

        Accommodations for Upper Dolpo Trek 22 days

        In the Kathmandu you will stay at 3-star hotel. However during the trek you will be staying at the teahouses. There are not many teahouses. So, in some places you will do camping.

        Foods during 22 days Upper Dolpo Trek

        While staying at the hotels/ teahouses you will get varieties of foods and drinks. You will have choices of different cuisines. While doing camping trek, the camping cook offers different kind of foods. You will mainly have local Nepalese dish dal bhat and achaar.

        Charging Facilities and wifi services during Upper Dolpo Trekking

        You can charge your electronic devices at some places. The electricity is not available every time. You need to pay extra cost for charging facilities. Wifi also might be available at some places. However the wifi and networks are not stable and reliable in the Dolpo region especially at the higher parts.

        22 days Upper Dolpo Trek difficulty

        The Upper Dolpo Trek is a long, demanding and a challenging trek. This trek is perfect for experienced trekkers who want to explore more adventures and experience natural thrill. The trek includes several high passes and long climbs which make the trek difficult. You can prepare for this trek by hiking, swimming, cycling, and other cardio-muscular exercises before the trek.

        Altitude sickness during Upper Dolpo Trekking

        The upper Dolpo trek is a high altitude trek. As you will be trekking to the higher altitudes there are chances of getting altitude sickness. Altitude sickness is common while trekking in higher altitudes. When this happens you need to say to the trekking guides. The guides will help you.

        Health and fitness requirement for Upper Dolpo Trekking

        If you want to do the upper Dolpo trek you need to be in excellent physical condition and should have mental determination and dedication. You can do the few preparations by swimming, hiking, cycling, jogging and other strength exercises before the trek.

        Guides and porters for 22 days Upper Dolpo Trek

        The guides and porters are necessary for the upper Dolpo trek as it will be easier and comfortable with their proper guidance and information. The guides lead the trek, explain the history, give the proper information and help you in need. The guides are fluent in speaking English which will make communication easier Welcome Neal treks provide friendly, caring, responsive and professional guides to the trekkers. The porters will be helpful for carrying the heavy bags throughout the trek. We provide strong and hardworking porters. The presence of guides and porters will make your long trekking journey easy, safe and comfortable.

        Permits for Upper Dolpo Trekking

        Three different kinds of permit are required for the upper Dolpo trekking. They are: Lower Dolpo trekking permit, Shey- Phoksundo national park entry permit and Upper Dolpo trekking permit.

        Travel insurance for Upper Dolpo Trekking

        Welcome Nepal Treks highly recommend having travel insurance for 22 days Upper Dolpo Trek. The travel insurance must cover medical services and emergency helicopter rescue. Good travel insurance will make you feel safe and secured during the trek.

        Tipping during upper Dolpo trekking

        The tipping during the Upper Dolpo trek is not mandatory. While doing the trek you will have trekking guide and porters who will help you throughout the work. They will do their best to provide you great services and make sure that you are safe. Tips are expected by the guides and porters after doing their best in the trek and providing great services. Tips are a great way of saying thanks to the guides and porters for their services. If you loved their work and their services then you can give them tip at the last day of trek. It completely depends on your choice.

        Why to do 22 days Upper Dolpo Trek

        The 22 days Upper Dolpo trekking is one of the most adventurous, exciting and thrilling trek in Nepal. The trek is fantastic opportunity of exploring mesmerizing nature and unique lifestyles and cultures of the locals. The trekkers will also have the great opportunity of exploring Nepal’s largest national park, Shey Phoksundo national park. You might see the rare wildlife such as: the snow leopard, musk deer, and blue sheep. The trek takes through beautiful landscapes, majestic mountains, waterfalls, deep valleys and pretty villages. You must do this Upper Dolpo Trek. It is one of the most naturally and culturally beautiful treks in Nepal. The 22 days Upper Dolpo trek is a perfect choice for the trekkers looking for great adventures and unique trekking experience in Nepal.

        Why welcome Nepal treks for Upper Dolpo Trekking

        Welcome Nepal Treks is a well organized trekking company in Nepal. We offer the 22 days Upper Dolpo Trek at a very reasonable price. We have a highly professional team with a lot of experiences. We provide the best professional guides and porters to the trekkers to make their trekking journey comfortable and safe. Our team makes sure to satisfy the customers and make them happy with our high quality services. We organize the treks with full safety and security. We highly care for our customer’s safety and happiness. We guarantee the best customer services from the day of arrival to the day of departure. Book the Upper Dolpo trek and enjoy one of the most adventurous and thrilling trekking with us.

        FAQs
        • Q1. How much does it cost to do the 22 days Upper Dolpo Trekking?

          Welcome Nepal Treks offer the 22 days Upper Dolpo Trekking at a very reasonable price. We offer this 22 days adventurous Upper Dolpo trekking package around $2400 with the quality services. The cost includes the transportation fees and everything mentioned in the package with all meals.

        • No, you will not find the money exchange services during the 22 days Upper Dolpo trekking. Before embarking your trek, we suggest you exchange your currency for Nepalese Rupees in Kathmandu. You can find number of money exchange counters and banks where you can convert your currency.

        • Guides during 22 days Upper Dolpo Trekking is not mandatory, but it is highly recommend to have guide. The 22 days Upper Dolpo trek is known for its rugged terrain and difficult trails. Having a guide with local knowledge and experience is invaluable for navigating the route, especially in remote areas where the trails may not be well-marked. We will provide you a well experienced and knowledgeable guide, so that they will make you safe and secure throughout the trek and make your journey beautiful and memorable.

        • Having a porter for 22 days Upper Dolpo Trekking is a personal choice. We will recommend you have porter because carrying a heavy backpack for 22 days can be physically demanding. Hiring porters allows you to offload the weight and trek with greater comfort and ease.

        • Yes, you can buy the trekking gears for 22 days Upper Dolpo Trekking in Nepal. There are numerous stores and markets where you can find a wide range of trekking equipment and gear in Kathmandu, especially in Thamel.

        • Yes, it is safe to do 22 days Upper Dolpo Trekking. The 22 days Upper Dolpo Trekking trail goes through remote areas which carries some inherent risks. However, with proper preparation, realistic expectations, and sticking to safety guidelines, the 22 days Upper Dolpo trek can be a rewarding and safe adventure. As it is our first priority to make our clients feel safe and secure.

        • The highest point of the 22-day Upper Dolpo trek is typically considered to be the Numa La Pass. It is located at an elevation of approximately 5,310 meters (17,421 feet) above sea level.

        • Yes, there is a chance of altitude sickness during the 22-day Upper Dolpo trek. It particularly arises when crossing high passes and reaching elevations above 3,000 meters (9,800 feet).

        • To avoid the altitude sickness in 22 days Upper Dolpo Trekking, you have to follow precautions mentioned below:

          • Stay hydrated
          • Listen to your body
          • Medication
          • Eat well
          • Avoid overexertion
          • Avoid alcohol and smoking
        • Yes, the 22 days Upper Dolpo trekking is worthwhile for trekkers. The 22-day Upper Dolpo trek is often considered a highly rewarding and unique trekking experience. This trek is known for its scenic beauty, stunning landscapes, remote and off-the-Beaten-Path, ancient monasteries, and rich cultural heritage.

        • Communication can be challenging during the 22 days Upper Dolpo trekking. The region has limited or no mobile network coverage in most areas. While there might be intermittent or weak signals in certain locations. Likewise, internet services will be extremely limited or non-existent during the 22 days Upper Dolpo trek.

        • Some of the specialties of the 22 days Upper Dolpo trek are mentioned below:

          • Remote and Untouched Beauty
          • Culture preservation
          • Shey Phoksundo National Park
          • Phoksundo lake
          • Challenging High Passes
          • Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience
          • Unique Trekking Experience
        • Yes, Welcome Nepal Treks customize itinerary of 22 days Upper Dolpo trekking that fits your desired duration, preferences, and interests. We will also suggest your alternative routes, add or remove specific attractions or side trips, and adjust the daily trekking distances according to your preferences and physical capabilities.

        • Yes, it is recommended to carry extra cash along the 22 days Upper Dolpo trek. During the trek, there might be unforeseen circumstances where you may need additional money.

        • Yes, you can do last minute booking of 22 days Upper Dolpo trekking. We accept your last minute booking but you should be doing at least before one day prior to the trip departure date.

        • If you cancel the booking of 22 days Upper Dolpo Trekking package, you will get refund. But you will be charged for the amount of cancellation. However, the cancelation should not be late. If you are going to trek tomorrow and already paid for the package and you cancel the booking today, you will not get refund as it is too late.

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