UPPER DOLPO TREKKING - 22 DAYS

Welcome to Nepal!

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, you can take some time to relax and recover from your journey. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant, where you can sample local cuisine and enjoy a cultural performance.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

Exploring the Cultural Heritage.

After breakfast, embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), an ancient religious complex that offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. Proceed to Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu temple located on the banks of the Bagmati River. Next, explore Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world and an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Conclude your day with a visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historical area filled with palaces, courtyards, and temples.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

Journey to the Starting Point.

Today, you will take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a city in the western Terai region of Nepal. After a short stopover, board a flight to Juphal, the gateway to the Dolpo region. Upon arrival in Juphal, begin your trek towards Chepkpa. The trail descends through terraced fields and meanders along the Bheri River, offering beautiful views of the surrounding hills and villages. Arrive in Chepkpa after a few hours of trekking and settle into your camp.

Overnight in Chepkpa.

Trekking Through Forested Valleys.

After breakfast, continue your trek through the lush forests of pine, oak, and juniper. The trail follows the Phoksundo River and passes through several small settlements and farmlands. You will cross suspension bridges and enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape. After about four hours of trekking, you will reach Palam, a small village where you will set up camp for the night.

Overnight in Palam.

Entering the Shey Phoksundo National Park.

Today's trek takes you into the Shey Phoksundo National Park, a protected area known for its unique biodiversity and stunning landscapes. The trail ascends gradually, offering glimpses of snow-capped peaks and deep gorges. You will pass through dense forests and rocky terrain before arriving at Phoksundo Lake, a pristine turquoise lake surrounded by rugged cliffs. Set up camp near the lake and take some time to explore the area.

Overnight at Phoksundo Lake.

A Day of Exploration and Acclimatization.

Spend the day exploring the shores of Phoksundo Lake and the nearby village of Ringmo. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains. Visit the Tshowa Gompa, a Bon monastery situated on a ridge overlooking the lake. This day also serves as an acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the higher altitude.

Overnight at Phoksundo Lake.

Journey Through Remote Valleys.

After breakfast, begin your trek towards Salla Ghari. The trail follows the eastern shore of Phoksundo Lake and then ascends through a narrow gorge. The terrain becomes more rugged as you make your way through rocky paths and forested areas. The trek offers breathtaking views of the Dolpo region’s unique landscapes. Arrive in Salla Ghari and set up camp for the night.

Overnight in Salla Ghari.

Ascending to Higher Elevations.

Today's trek takes you to higher altitudes as you head towards Lar Tsa. The trail becomes steeper and more challenging, with several ascents and descents. You will pass through high mountain passes and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The landscape changes dramatically, with sparse vegetation and rugged terrain. Arrive in Lar Tsa and set up camp for the night.

Overnight in Lar Tsa.

Reaching the Spiritual Heart of Dolpo.

After breakfast, continue your trek towards Shey Gompa, one of the most significant monasteries in the Dolpo region. The trail takes you through the Shey La Pass (5,009 m), offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Descend into the Shey Valley and arrive at Shey Gompa, a beautiful monastery situated in a remote and serene location. Explore the monastery and its surroundings, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere.

Overnight at Shey Gompa.

A Day of Rest and Exploration.

Take a well-deserved rest day at Shey Gompa. Use this time to explore the monastery and learn about the Bon religion and culture. You can also take short hikes around the valley, visiting nearby hermitages and meditation caves. The rest day is essential for acclimatization and helps prepare your body for the upcoming high-altitude treks.

Overnight at Shey Gompa.

Trekking Through Remote Valleys.

After breakfast, begin your trek towards Namgung. The trail takes you through remote valleys and high mountain passes, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. You will pass through the Namgung Monastery, a small but significant religious site in the region. Continue your trek and arrive in Namgung, where you will set up camp for the night.

Overnight in Namgung.

Descending to Lower Altitudes.

Today's trek takes you to Shaldang, a village situated at a lower altitude. The trail descends gradually, passing through rugged terrain and remote settlements. You will enjoy beautiful views of the Dolpo region’s unique landscapes and interact with the local inhabitants. Arrive in Shaldang and set up camp for the night.

Overnight in Shaldang.

Journey Through Traditional Villages.

After breakfast, continue your trek towards Shibu. The trail takes you through traditional Dolpo villages, where you can observe the unique culture and lifestyle of the local inhabitants. The terrain is varied, with ascents and descents through rocky paths and forested areas. Arrive in Shibu and set up camp for the night.

Overnight in Shibu.

Preparing for High Pass Crossings.

Today's trek takes you to Jengla Phedi, a high-altitude campsite situated at the base of the Jengla Pass. The trail ascends gradually, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You will pass through remote settlements and enjoy the serene beauty of the Dolpo region. Arrive in Jengla Phedi and set up camp for the night.

Overnight in Jengla Phedi.

Crossing the Jengla Pass.

After an early breakfast, begin your ascent to the Jengla Pass (4,845 m). The trail is steep and challenging, but the views from the top are incredibly rewarding. Descend from the pass into the Tarap Valley, a beautiful and fertile region known for its traditional villages and monasteries. Arrive in Tokyu Gaon and set up camp for the night.

Overnight in Tokyu Gaon.

Exploring the Tarap Valley.

Today's trek takes you through the picturesque Tarap Valley to the village of Dho Tarap. The trail descends gradually, offering beautiful views of the valley and its surroundings. You will pass through traditional Dolpo villages and interact with the local inhabitants. Dho Tarap is a large and culturally rich village, known for its ancient monasteries and traditional way of life.

Overnight in Dho Tarap.

Descending to Lower Elevations.

After breakfast, continue your trek towards Serkam. The trail descends through the Tarap Valley, following the Tarap River. You will pass through dense forests and remote settlements, enjoying the changing landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. Arrive in Serkam and set up camp for the night.

Overnight in Serkam.

Journey Through Picturesque Landscapes.

Today's trek takes you to Tarakot, a picturesque village situated at a lower altitude. The trail descends gradually, passing through lush forests and terraced fields. You will follow the Tarap River and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Arrive in Tarakot and set up camp for the night.

Overnight in Tarakot.

Reaching the Administrative Center.

After breakfast, continue your trek towards Dunai, the administrative center of the Dolpo region. The trail follows the Thuli Bheri River and passes through several small settlements and farmlands. You will enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes and interact with the local inhabitants. Arrive in Dunai and set up camp for the night.

Overnight in Dunai.

Completing the Trek.

Today's trek takes you back to Juphal, the starting point of your trek. The trail ascends gradually, passing through terraced fields and small villages. You will enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys as you make your way to Juphal. Arrive in Juphal and check into your guesthouse for the night.

Overnight in Juphal.

Returning to the Capital.

After breakfast, take a short flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, and then board a connecting flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and take some time to relax and recover from your trek. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant, celebrating the successful completion of your trek.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

Farewell and Safe Travels.

Enjoy your final breakfast in Kathmandu. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute sightseeing or shopping. You will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your Upper Dolpo Trek and the warm hospitality of Nepal.