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Dolpo Tibetan Plateau Remnant

Overview

Region: Dolpo

Season: All season

Grade: Challenging

Accommodation: Hotel (Kathmandu), Tea house & Camping (during trek)

Max Altitude: 5,400m

Total Elevation Gain: Approx. 11,742m

Total Walking Distance: Approx. 249.4km

Total Duration: 23 Days

Start Point: Kagbeni (fly to Pokhara & drive to Kagbeni)

End Point: Juphal (fly to Nepalgunj & to Kathmandu)                          


The Upper Dolpo Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally fascinating Himalayan journeys, offering an extraordinary experience in a hidden region of the country that remains largely untouched by modern development. Located in the far northwestern part of Nepal near the Tibetan border, Upper Dolpo is a restricted area known for its dramatic landscapes, ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, and centuries-old trade routes. This challenging trek takes adventurers through high mountain passes, vast trans-Himalayan valleys, and traditional villages where local communities continue to practice a unique lifestyle deeply rooted in Tibetan traditions.

During the journey, we will travel from the bustling capital of Kathmandu to the rugged landscapes of the Dolpo region, passing through historic settlements such as Kagbeni, Chharka Bhot, Tinje, and Saldang. The route also includes visits to significant spiritual sites like Shey Gompa, often referred to as the Crystal Monastery, and the breathtaking Phoksundo Lake, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Nepal. This trek offers a rare opportunity to explore Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to diverse wildlife and spectacular scenery ranging from barren desert-like valleys to dense pine forests.

The Upper Dolpo Trek is considered a demanding adventure due to its remote location, high altitude, Multiple high passes and long trekking days. However, it rewards you with unparalleled natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and a profound sense of wilderness & also one of the last hidden regions of the Himalayas.

Note: This itinerary can be customizable


 

Highlights

·        Multiple high passes above 5000 meters

·        Stunning views of snow-capped mountains including Crystal Mountain, Dhaulagiri Massif & Kanjirowa Himal Range. along the journey & during high passes

·         Explore one of Nepal’s most remote trekking region

·         Experience the historic village in Kagbeni

·         Experience the unique Tibetan-influenced culture of Upper Dolpo

·         Visit Shey Gompa (Crystal Monastery), one of the most sacred sites in Dolpo

·         Witness the stunning beauty of Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s deepest alpine lake

·         Trek through Shey Phoksundo National Park, the largest national park in Nepal

·         Cross several high Himalayan passes with spectacular mountain views

·         Visit traditional villages including Chharka Bhot, Tinje, Khoma, and Saldang

·         Experience authentic Kagnebi & Dolpo culture, monasteries, prayer walls, and chortens

·         Walk along ancient Tibetan trade routes between Nepal and Tibet

·         Enjoy diverse landscapes from barren trans-Himalayan deserts to alpine forests

·         Opportunity to see rare wildlife such as blue sheep and snow leopard habitat

·         Discover one of the least visited trekking regions in the Himalayas

 

Itinerary

Day 01 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)

One of representative will pick you up at airport and accompany you to the Hotel. In the evening, we will have a meeting at the hotel to brief you for tomorrow sightseeing.


Day 02 : Trek preparation and sightseeing

Today is dedicated to kathmandu valley Sightseeing and final preparation for the trek. After breakfast, we will assist with a final equipment/gears check and then, we will start to visit culturally rich UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Stupas, Durbar Squares and temples. Some of the famous sites are Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Kathmandu Durbar Square and others.

In the evening, we will have meeting at hotel to brief you on entire trek.

Day 03 : Kathmandu – Pokhara (flight) & Drive to Kagbeni (2,800m)
161km drive

DISTANCE

161km drive

25-30min Flight & 5 hours drive

DURATION

25-30min Flight & 5 hours drive

Flight & Jeep

TRANSPORTATION

Flight & Jeep

In the early morning after breakfast, we go to the airport and take short but beautiful mountain & landscape view flight to Pokhara. From Pokhara we will take jeep to Kagbeni. After that we will explore tiri village & tiri gumba (3050m) there.


Day 04 : Kagbeni to Sangda (3,770m) via Bima Lojun La Pass (4,460m)
20km

DISTANCE

20km

9 hours

DURATION

9 hours

+1,660m/-710m

ELEVATION

+1,660m/-710m

From today our trekking adventure begins. At first, we will ascend toward Sangda via our first pass Bima Lojun La. The trail passes through rugged trans-Himalayan landscapes characterized by dry valleys, eroded cliffs, and expansive mountain views. Along the way, we will encounter traditional settlements and experience the stark yet captivating beauty of this remote region. After several hours of trekking, we will reach Sangda where we will spend the night.

Day 05 : Sangda to Sangdala phedi (4,130m)
10km

DISTANCE

10km

+993m/-682

ELEVATION

+993m/-682

4-5 hours

DURATION

4-5 hours

Today’s journey is relatively shorter but involves a steady climb toward Sangda Phedi, the base camp area for an upcoming mountain pass. The trail traverses open alpine terrain and grazing pastures used by local yak herders. As we gain altitude, the landscape becomes increasingly remote and dramatic. Upon arrival at Sangda Phedi, we will have time to rest and prepare for the next day’s challenging ascent over the pass.



Day 06 : Sangdala phedi to Molum Sumna (4,500m) via Tuchela Bhanjyang pass (5,400m) & Niwar La Pass (5,152m)
14.9km

DISTANCE

14.9km

6 hours

DURATION

6 hours

+1,114m/-338m

ELEVATION

+1,114m/-338m

Today we cross the high mountain pass of Tuchela Bhanjyang, one of the key highlights of the trek. The trail ascends steadily to the pass, rewarding you with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges and remote valleys. After reaching the summit of the pass, the trail descends gradually into the isolated valley of Molum Sumna. The area offers a profound sense of wilderness and solitude that defines the Upper Dolpo trekking experience.



Day 07 : Molum Sumna to Chharka bhot (4,120m)
19.8

DISTANCE

19.8

+333m/-896m

ELEVATION

+333m/-896m

6 hours

DURATION

6 hours

Today, the trail continues through wide valleys and high-altitude terrain as you make your way to Chharka Bhot, one of the largest villages in this remote region. The settlement reflects strong Tibetan cultural traditions, with stone houses, prayer flags, and Buddhist monasteries. Chharka Bhot provides an excellent opportunity to observe the traditional lifestyle of the Dolpo people who have preserved their customs and way of life for centuries.


Day 08 : Chharka bhot to Demar kharka (4,500m) via Mola La Pass (5,030m)
18km

DISTANCE

18km

5-6 hours

DURATION

5-6 hours

+809m/-423m

ELEVATION

+809m/-423m

Leaving Chharka Bhot, the trail ascends gradually through open alpine landscapes toward Demar Kharka. The route passes through grazing areas used by nomadic herders and offers expansive views of the surrounding hills and distant peaks. The peaceful environment and dramatic scenery make this section of the trek particularly memorable. Overnight camping at Demar Kharka.


Day 09 : Demar kharka to Tinje (4,180m)
7-8 hours

DURATION

7-8 hours

+177m/-708

ELEVATION

+177m/-708

This day will be one of the longer trekking days as we trek through remote valleys toward the historic village of Tinje. This ancient settlement has played an important role in traditional trade routes between Tibet and Nepal. Tinje is known for its distinctive architecture, traditional houses, and old monasteries. The village offers a rare glimpse into the preserved Tibetan culture of Upper Dolpo.


Day 10 : Tinje to Shimen (3,910m)
+259m/-545m

ELEVATION

+259m/-545m

15km

DISTANCE

15km

6-7 hours

DURATION

6-7 hours

Today, the trail gradually descends from Tinje through scenic valleys and traditional settlements toward Shimen. Along the route, we may see cultivated fields and small villages where local communities continue to practice traditional agriculture in this harsh mountain environment. This day provides an opportunity to observe the daily life of the Dolpo people and appreciate the cultural richness of the region.



Day 11 : Shinen to Khoma (4,210m)
+705m/-399m

ELEVATION

+705m/-399m

9.3km

DISTANCE

9.3km

3-4 hours

DURATION

3-4 hours

Today’s route involves a steady ascent toward the village of Khoma. The trail passes through rugged landscapes marked by Buddhist prayer walls, mani stones, and chortens, reflecting the strong spiritual traditions of the region. Upon arrival in Khoma, we can explore the small but culturally significant settlement while enjoying impressive views of the surrounding Himalayan terrain.



Day 12 : Khoma to Saldang (4030m)
11.3km

DISTANCE

11.3km

4 hours

DURATION

4 hours

+776m/-953m

ELEVATION

+776m/-953m

The journey of this day continues across high-altitude terrain toward Saldang, the largest and most prosperous village in Upper Dolpo. Historically, Saldang served as a major trading hub for merchants traveling between Tibet and Nepal. The village is known for its traditional houses, monasteries, and vibrant local culture. Exploring Saldang offers valuable insight into the economic and cultural life of this remote Himalayan region.



Day 13 : Saldang to Shey Gompa (4,390m)
20km

DISTANCE

20km

+1,627m/-1,251m

ELEVATION

+1,627m/-1,251m

7-8 hours

DURATION

7-8 hours

Today’s trek leads to the sacred monastery of Shey Gompa, one of the most important religious sites in Dolpo. Today, the trail crosses remote valleys and ridges before arriving at the monastery, which sits beneath the sacred Crystal Mountain. Known as the Crystal Monastery, Shey Gompa holds deep spiritual significance for Buddhist pilgrims and offers a peaceful and inspiring atmosphere.


Day 14 : Exploring Shey Gumba in cliff side (4,440m)

This day is reserved for acclimatization and exploration around Shey Gompa. We will explore the monastery complex, interact with local monks, and learn about the spiritual traditions practiced in this region. Many pilgrims perform a sacred circumambulation around Crystal Mountain, a revered pilgrimage site in Dolpo. The day provides a valuable opportunity to rest and fully appreciate the spiritual and natural beauty of the area.

Day 15 : Shey Gompa to Nangdalo Phedi (4,700m)
7.6km

DISTANCE

7.6km

4 hours

DURATION

4 hours

+310m/-0m

ELEVATION

+310m/-0m

This day will be shorter & from the ancient Shey Gompa, a remote high‑altitude Buddhist monastery and spiritual heart of Upper Dolpo, the trail climbs gently at first before getting steeper as we head toward the high pass region. We leave behind the monastery’s peaceful valley and follow glacial streams and alpine terrain upward. The path gradually gains altitude, with panoramic views of rugged peaks in the distance, as we move through scree slopes and high pastures typical of trans‑Himalayan landscapes.


Day 16 : Nangdalo Phedi to Nangdalo Base Camp (4,717m) via Nangdalo Pass (5,350m)
5.1km

DISTANCE

5.1km

4-5 hours

DURATION

4-5 hours

+650m/-695m

ELEVATION

+650m/-695m

This day we will start our trek early because of the pass. First the trail ascent through alpine meadows and rugged terrain to the pass, which offers panoramic vistas of prominent Himalayan peaks, including Kanjiroba (6,883 m), Churen Himal (7,160 m), and surrounding ranges. After pass, we will camp at Nangdalo Base Camp.



Day 17 : Nangdalo Base Camp to Ringmo Village (3,660m)
+654m/-1,652m

ELEVATION

+654m/-1,652m

19.8km

DISTANCE

19.8km

8 hours

DURATION

8 hours

Today we will take a Long descend towards Ringmo Village, a traditional, scenic settlement perched directly on a landslide dam above the turquoise Phoksundo Lake. It is known for its Tibetan-influenced culture, Bönpo monastery, stone houses, and stunning natural surroundings within Shey Phoksundo National Park.


Day 18 : Exploring day around Phoksundo Lake

Today is dedicated to exploring the stunning surroundings of Phoksundo Lake, a stunning Y-shaped alpine freshwater lake of Nepal. After exploring lake surroundings, we will visit the traditional village of Ringmo, located above the lake, and learn about the Bon religious traditions practiced by the local community. A walk along the lakeshore provides spectacular views and excellent photography opportunities while allowing time to rest and reflect on the journey.

Day 19 : Shey Phoksundo Ringmo to Chhepka (2,700m)
+1,233m/2,197

ELEVATION

+1,233m/2,197

19.7km

DISTANCE

19.7km

7 hours

DURATION

7 hours

Leaving the high alpine environment, the trail descends through lush forests toward Chhepka. The route follows the Phoksundo River and passes through forests of pine, juniper, and birch. After many days trekking in the dry trans-Himalayan landscapes, this greener environment provides a refreshing contrast and marks the gradual transition toward lower elevations.


Day 20 : Chhepka to Juphal (2,475m)
+442m/-1,048m

ELEVATION

+442m/-1,048m

18.7km

DISTANCE

18.7km

6-7 hours

DURATION

6-7 hours

Today will be the final day of trekking as we descend toward the airstrip at Juphal, a beautiful village of Dolpa. The trail passes through small villages, terraced farmland, and river valleys before reaching our destination. Upon arrival in Juphal, we celebrate the successful completion of this extraordinary journey through one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich regions.


Day 21 : Flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj to Kathmandu

In the morning, according to flight time, we board a short flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj in western Nepal. After a brief stop, we continue by connecting flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, we will transfer you to your hotel where you can relax and enjoy the comforts of the city after trekking adventure.

Leaving from Juphal, the small aircraft rises above rugged mountains, deep valleys, and untouched landscapes of Dolpa. As the plane descends into Nepalgunj, the scenery slowly changes from high Himalayan terrain to the warm plains of the Terai. The final flight to Kathmandu offers stunning aerial views of green hills, winding rivers, and distant snow-capped peaks before landing in the bustling heart of Nepal.

Day 22 : Kathmandu (Consistency day)

This additional day is reserved as a contingency in case of weather-related flight delays from the remote Dolpo region. If the schedule proceeds as planned, we may spend the day exploring Kathmandu further.

Day 23 : Final Departure

One of our Representative will drop you to the Tribhuwan international Airport for final departure, according to you flight time.

“It’s time to say goodbye, with lots of memories made for lifetime”

Trip Route
Trip Code
#Dolpo-001
altitude
altitude
5,400m max
duration
duration
23
transport
Transport
Jeep & Flight
Region
Region
Dolpa Region
Group
Group Size
1-7
Level
Level
Challenging
Activity
Activity
Trekking
Accomodation
Accomodation
Hotel, lodges & Camping
Accomodation
Best Season
Autumn

Need Help?

  • Phone
    +977-9841603858
    Call us for info.
  • Mail
    himalayanyogiadventures@gmail.com
    E-mail us.
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