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
· 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
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.
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.
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TRANSPORTATION
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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.
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”