A bespoke trekking in nepal adventure.
The Upper Dolpo Trek – 27 Days is a challenging journey into one of Nepal's most remote Himalayan regions, where dramatic mountain landscapes, high passes, ancient Buddhist traditions, and traditional villages remain largely untouched by modern development. As a remote adventure in Trekking in Nepal, the trek offers an opportunity to experience the wild and culturally distinctive landscapes of Dolpo far beyond Nepal's more established trekking routes.
The journey begins with flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Juphal before entering the remote trails of Dolpo. From Juphal, the route leads through rugged valleys toward Phoksundo Lake, passing through the landscapes of Shey–Phoksundo National Park. The spectacular lake, surrounding cliffs, forests, and high mountain scenery form one of the most memorable sections of the trek, while the wider region offers a remarkable combination of natural beauty and Himalayan wilderness.
Beyond Phoksundo Lake, the trail climbs into the high valleys of Upper Dolpo, crossing demanding mountain passes and reaching Shey Gompa, Saldang, Yangze Gompa, and other traditional settlements. The journey provides a close look at the region's Tibetan-influenced Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, and distinctive mountain communities. Travelers interested in the deeper history, traditions, and way of life of the region can explore our Dolpo Culture & Heritage Guide, while the spiritual landscape around Shey and its sacred Crystal Mountain adds another important dimension to the trek.
The return route passes through Dho Tarap, Tarap Khola, Khanigaon, Tarakot, and Dunai before reaching Juphal for the flight back to Kathmandu. Because Upper Dolpo is a remote and restricted trekking region, the journey requires careful planning, appropriate permits, good physical preparation, and reliable logistical support. Our Dolpo Region Trekking information provides further insight into trekking in this exceptional part of Nepal, while the Nepal Travel Information Guide covers broader practical information for planning your journey in Nepal.
Short Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft) and transfer to your hotel
Day 02: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (492 m / 1,614 ft) – 1 hour
Day 03: Fly to Juphal (2,502 m / 8,209 ft) and trek to Dunai (2,140 m / 7,021 ft) – 3 hours
Day 04: Trek to Ankhe (2,660 m / 8,727 ft) – 6 hours
Day 05: Trek to Sulighat (3,500 m / 11,483 ft) – 6 hours
Day 06: Trek to Phoksundo Lake (3,600 m / 11,811 ft) – 5 hours
Day 07: Rest and explore Phoksundo Lake (3,600 m / 11,811 ft)
Day 08: Trek to Phoksundo Khola (3,507 m / 11,506 ft) – 5 hours
Day 09: Trek to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4,402 m / 14,442 ft) – 7 hours
Day 10: Trek to Shey Gompa (4,126 m / 13,537 ft) via Kang La Pass (5,151 m / 16,900 ft) – 6 hours
Day 11: Rest and explore Shey Gompa (4,126 m / 13,537 ft)
Day 12: Trek to Namduna Gaun (4,400 m / 14,436 ft) via Saldang La (4,785 m / 15,699 ft) – 7 hours
Day 13: Trek to Saldang (3,903 m / 12,805 ft) – 5 hours
Day 14: Trek to Yangze Gompa (3,855 m / 12,648 ft) – 5 hours
Day 15: Trek to Sibu (3,942 m / 12,933 ft) – 6 hours
Day 16: Trek to Jeng La Phedi (4,369 m / 14,334 ft) – 6 hours
Day 17: Trek to Tokyu Gaon via Jeng La Pass (4,369 m / 14,334 ft) – 5 hours
Day 18: Trek to Dho Tarap (4,090 m / 13,419 ft) – 5 hours
Day 19: Rest and explore Dho Tarap (4,090 m / 13,419 ft)
Day 20: Trek to Tarap Khola (Kamakharka) (3,800 m / 12,467 ft) – 6 hours
Day 21: Trek to Khanigaon (2,550 m / 8,366 ft) – 5 hours
Day 22: Trek to Tarakot (2,281 m / 7,484 ft) – 5 hours
Day 23: Trek to Dunai (2,140 m / 7,021 ft) – 6 hours
Day 24: Trek to Juphal (2,502 m / 8,209 ft) – 3 hours
Day 25: Fly from Juphal to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj – approximately 2 hours
Day 26: Leisure day in Kathmandu for rest, shopping, and relaxation
Day 27: Final departure from Kathmandu
Trip Facts
Trip Name: Upper Dolpo Trek – 27 Days
Destination: Nepal
Region: Dolpo
Duration: 27 Days / 26 Nights
Trip Type: High-Altitude Camping Trek
Trek Grade: Challenging
Maximum Elevation: 5,151 m / 16,900 ft at Kang La Pass
Starting Point: Juphal
Trekking Ending Point: Juphal
Tour Ending Point: Kathmandu
Accommodation: 3 nights in Kathmandu on BB, 1 night in Nepalgunj on BB, and fully supported camping during the trek
Meals: Full Board during the trekking and camping section; Breakfast in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj
Transportation: Private vehicle and domestic flights between Kathmandu, Nepalgunj, and Juphal
Domestic Flights: Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Juphal and Juphal–Nepalgunj–Kathmandu
Trekking Support: Fully supported camping trek with experienced trekking guide, cooks, porters, camping crew, tents, kitchen equipment, dining equipment, and necessary trekking logistics
Camping: Full-service camping with tents, mattresses, dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet facilities, and camp support throughout the remote trekking sections
Best Seasons: Spring, summer, and autumn, depending on weather and trail conditions
Daily Walking: Approximately 3–7 hours
Major Highlights: Phoksundo Lake, Shey–Phoksundo National Park, Shey Gompa, Crystal Mountain, Kang La Pass, Saldang La, Saldang, Yangze Gompa, Jeng La Pass, Dho Tarap, and traditional Dolpo villages
Permits: Restricted-area trekking permit, Shey–Phoksundo National Park permit, and other applicable permits
Suitable For: Experienced trekkers, photographers, nature lovers, and adventure travelers seeking a remote Himalayan experience
Phoksundo Lake and Shey–Phoksundo National Park
Phoksundo Lake is one of the most spectacular natural attractions of the Upper Dolpo Trek. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs, forests, and rugged Himalayan mountains, the deep blue and turquoise waters of the lake create an extraordinary contrast with the remote landscape. The trail to Phoksundo passes through the protected wilderness of Shey–Phoksundo National Park, Nepal's largest national park, where the landscape ranges from lower Himalayan forests to high-altitude valleys.
The national park is home to diverse Himalayan flora and wildlife, although sightings of rare species are never guaranteed. The peaceful environment around Phoksundo Lake also provides an important opportunity for acclimatization before entering the higher valleys. Travelers interested in the protected area's landscapes, wildlife, natural features, and cultural significance can explore our Shey–Phoksundo National Park Guide for more information.
Dolpo Culture and Heritage
Upper Dolpo is renowned not only for its remote mountain landscapes but also for its distinctive cultural heritage. Traditional villages, ancient monasteries, prayer flags, mani walls, and centuries-old Buddhist traditions remain an important part of everyday life in the region. The communities of Dolpo have developed a unique way of life adapted to the demanding high-altitude environment and long-established trade and cultural connections across the Himalayas.
As the trek passes through settlements such as Saldang, Yangze, Tokyu Gaon, and Dho Tarap, travelers have opportunities to observe traditional architecture, local agricultural practices, religious customs, and community life. The region's Tibetan-influenced traditions and Buddhist heritage give the journey a cultural depth that goes beyond the mountain scenery. Our Dolpo Culture & Heritage Guide provides a deeper look at the people, traditions, history, and cultural identity of this remarkable region.
Shey Gompa and Crystal Mountain
Shey Gompa is one of the most significant spiritual landmarks along the Upper Dolpo route. Located in a remote high-altitude valley, the monastery is closely associated with the Buddhist traditions of Dolpo and provides a peaceful setting surrounded by dramatic mountains. The journey to Shey involves crossing the demanding Kang La Pass, making the arrival at the monastery an especially memorable part of the trek.
The landscape around Shey is also associated with Crystal Mountain, regarded as a sacred mountain in the local Buddhist tradition. Its unusual geological appearance and spiritual importance have made the area an important destination for pilgrims and trekkers alike. To understand the history, religious significance, landscape, and traditions surrounding this remarkable area, see our Shey Gompa & Crystal Mountain Guide.
High Mountain Passes and Altitude
The Upper Dolpo Trek involves several demanding high-altitude crossings, making altitude management an important part of the journey. Kang La Pass, reaching approximately 5,151 meters, is the highest point of the itinerary, followed by other significant crossings including Saldang La and Jeng La. These sections involve steep climbs, rugged terrain, and changing weather conditions, requiring a steady pace and careful attention to altitude.
The itinerary includes rest days at Phoksundo Lake, Shey, and Dho Tarap, providing valuable opportunities to recover and adapt during the long journey. Trekkers should walk at a comfortable pace, drink sufficient water, eat regularly, and inform the guide immediately if they experience symptoms associated with altitude. Weather and trail conditions can also affect the pace of the trek, so flexibility is important in such a remote mountain environment.
Accommodation and Food
Accommodation during the Upper Dolpo Trek combines hotel stays, basic teahouse accommodation, and fully supported camping. The itinerary includes three nights in Kathmandu and one night in Nepalgunj on a bed-and-breakfast basis, while the remote trekking section is supported by an experienced camping crew. Tents, kitchen facilities, dining arrangements, and other essential camping equipment are transported and managed by the trekking team.
During the trekking and camping section, full-board meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day. Meals are prepared by the trekking cooks using available fresh ingredients and appropriate provisions carried for the remote sections of the route. Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements can generally be arranged when advised in advance, although choices are naturally more limited in this isolated region.
Permits and Restricted Area
Upper Dolpo is a restricted trekking region of Nepal, and special permits are required to enter and trek through the designated restricted areas. Trekkers must travel with an authorized trekking agency and follow the applicable government regulations for restricted-area trekking. A Shey–Phoksundo National Park entry permit is also required for the sections of the journey within the national park.
Mountain King Treks arranges the required trekking permits and documentation as part of the trip arrangements. Because permit regulations, fees, and requirements can change, the exact documentation is confirmed according to the current regulations and the route being used for your departure.
Best Time for Upper Dolpo Trek
The best periods for the Upper Dolpo Trek are generally spring and autumn, although Dolpo's location in the rain-shadow of the Himalayas also makes parts of the region suitable during the summer monsoon period. Weather, snow conditions, and accessibility can vary considerably according to the altitude and section of the route.
Spring — April to May: Warmer conditions and generally favorable trekking weather make spring an excellent period for the journey. Mountain landscapes and lower valleys can be particularly attractive during this season.
Summer/Monsoon — June to August: Much of Dolpo lies in a Himalayan rain-shadow, so the region can receive considerably less rainfall than many other parts of Nepal. This period can therefore be suitable for Upper Dolpo, although flight schedules and mountain weather can still be unpredictable.
Autumn — September to November: Clear mountain views, generally stable conditions, and comfortable trekking weather make autumn one of the most popular seasons for the trek.
Winter — December to March: Heavy snow and very cold conditions can make high passes and remote trails difficult or inaccessible. Winter trekking requires careful assessment of current trail and weather conditions.
Trekking Preparation
Preparation is especially important for the Upper Dolpo Trek because of its long duration, high elevations, remote terrain, and limited access to services. Regular walking, hiking, cardiovascular exercise, and endurance training before the journey can help you manage the long trekking days and repeated ascents and descents more comfortably.
A suitable trekking wardrobe should include warm layers, waterproof clothing, sturdy trekking boots, gloves, a warm hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a good-quality sleeping bag suitable for high-altitude camping. A comfortable daypack, water bottles or a hydration system, personal medication, and essential toiletries are also important. Because the trek includes remote camping, travelers should follow the recommended packing list provided by the trekking team and avoid unnecessary weight.
Responsible Trekking in Dolpo
Upper Dolpo is a remote and environmentally sensitive region where traditional communities and fragile mountain ecosystems remain closely connected. Trekkers should help protect this environment by avoiding litter, minimizing plastic waste, using designated camping and toilet facilities, and carrying waste out of areas where appropriate disposal is not available.
Respect for local communities, monasteries, religious traditions, wildlife, and cultural sites is equally important. Ask permission before photographing people or entering religious spaces, avoid disturbing local customs, and follow the guidance of your trekking crew. Responsible travel helps protect the unique character of Dolpo while ensuring that future travelers and local communities can continue to benefit from tourism in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Upper Dolpo Trek suitable for first-time trekkers?
The Upper Dolpo Trek is best suited to experienced trekkers or travelers with good physical fitness and a strong interest in remote high-altitude adventures. The long duration, demanding passes, basic facilities, and limited access to services make it considerably more challenging than many of Nepal's established tea-house treks.
What type of camping facilities are provided during the trek?
The trekking section is organized as a fully supported camping experience. The crew provides sleeping and dining tents, kitchen facilities, toilet arrangements, camping equipment, and the staff required to operate the camps. You only need to carry your personal day-to-day belongings while the main equipment and supplies are managed by the trekking team.
Can dietary requirements be accommodated during the trek?
Yes, common dietary requirements such as vegetarian meals can generally be arranged when they are communicated before the trek. Because Upper Dolpo is extremely remote, food choices are more limited than in Kathmandu or larger trekking areas, so specific dietary needs should be discussed with the company well before departure.
What happens if domestic flights to Juphal are delayed or cancelled?
Flights to Juphal are dependent on weather and operating conditions, so delays or cancellations can occasionally occur. The itinerary may need to be adjusted when necessary, and the trekking team will coordinate alternative arrangements according to the prevailing conditions and available flight schedules.
Can I charge my phone and camera batteries during the trek?
Charging facilities are very limited in the remote sections of Upper Dolpo, particularly during camping. Solar charging or limited charging opportunities may be available at some locations, but travelers should not depend on regular electricity. Carrying spare batteries, a power bank, or a suitable solar charging solution is recommended for phones and cameras.
Plan Your Upper Dolpo Trek
Planning a long restricted-area trek such as Upper Dolpo requires attention to travel arrangements, permits, equipment, insurance, flights, and personal preparation. Our team can help you organize the journey according to your preferred travel dates, group size, trekking experience, and requirements while ensuring that the necessary logistics are arranged for the remote route.
For broader information about organizing a journey in Nepal, our Nepal Travel Planning Guide can help you understand the main stages of planning, from choosing your itinerary and travel season to arranging transportation and accommodation. Before departure, our Nepal Trip Preparation Guide provides practical advice on packing, trekking preparation, travel documents, insurance, and other essentials for your Himalayan journey.
Contact Us
Mountain King Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd.
WhatsApp / Call: +977-9841566449
Email: info@mountainkingtrek.com
Contact us to discuss your preferred dates, group size, trekking experience, and travel requirements for the Upper Dolpo Trek – 27 Days.
Plan Your Trip
Tell us your preferred travel dates, group size, and requirements, and our team will help arrange your Upper Dolpo Trek with the necessary permits, transportation, accommodation, camping support, and trekking logistics.
What makes this special.
- Explore the remote and spectacular landscapes of Upper Dolpo, one of Nepal's most isolated Himalayan regions
- Discover the turquoise waters and dramatic surroundings of Phoksundo Lake
- Trek through Shey–Phoksundo National Park and its remote mountain wilderness
- Cross challenging high-altitude passes including Kang La, Saldang La, and Jeng La
- Visit the sacred Shey Gompa and experience the spiritual landscape of Crystal Mountain
- Explore traditional villages including Saldang, Yangze, Tokyu Gaon, and Dho Tarap
- Experience the distinctive Tibetan-influenced culture, Buddhist traditions, and heritage of Dolpo
- Trek through remote valleys, high mountain landscapes, and traditional Himalayan settlements
- Enjoy a fully supported trekking experience combining camping and basic teahouse accommodation
- Experience one of Nepal's classic restricted-area high-altitude trekking adventures
Your itinerary.
Welcome to Nepal. Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can rest and relax following your international journey while our team ensures that the arrangements for your Upper Dolpo adventure are in place.
Kathmandu is the starting point for your journey into the remote Dolpo region. You will have time to meet the trekking team and receive important information about the upcoming trek, including the route, high-altitude conditions, camping arrangements, and necessary preparations.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu (BB)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your scenic domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj in southwestern Nepal. The flight takes approximately one hour and offers changing views as the Kathmandu Valley gives way to the lower plains and western landscapes of Nepal.
After arriving in Nepalgunj, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some time to relax. Nepalgunj serves as an important gateway for journeys into western Nepal, and your overnight stay here allows you to prepare for the following day's flight to Juphal and the beginning of the trekking adventure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Nepalgunj
Today, take an early morning flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal, the main air gateway to the Dolpo region. The short flight provides spectacular views of the rugged hills and Himalayan terrain before landing at Juphal's mountain airstrip. After meeting the trekking crew and completing the final preparations, begin walking toward Dunai.
The trail gradually descends and follows the surrounding mountain landscape toward Dunai, the administrative center of Dolpo. The trek introduces you to the remote character of the region as the landscape becomes increasingly rugged and traditional settlements appear along the route.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse in Dunai
After breakfast, leave Dunai and begin trekking deeper into the Dolpo region. The trail follows the river valley through a changing landscape of forests, rocky slopes, and narrow mountain paths. As you move away from Dunai, the surroundings become quieter and more remote.
The day's walk takes you toward Ankhe through a combination of gradual climbs and descents. Along the way, you begin to experience the distinctive wilderness of Dolpo, with dramatic mountain scenery and remote trails that lead toward the famous Phoksundo Valley.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
The trek continues from Ankhe toward Sulighat, following the rugged trail through the lower valleys of Dolpo. The route passes through forests and along steep hillsides, with sections of the trail following the river and crossing rocky terrain.
As the elevation increases, the landscape gradually changes and the mountains become more dramatic. After several hours of walking, reach Sulighat, where the trekking crew establishes camp and you can rest and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this remote Himalayan region.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today is one of the most rewarding days of the trek as you continue toward the spectacular Phoksundo Lake. The trail climbs through a dramatic mountain landscape, passing waterfalls, forests, rocky cliffs, and narrow valleys as you approach the lake.
After reaching Phoksundo Lake, you will be rewarded with views of its striking blue and turquoise waters surrounded by steep Himalayan cliffs. The remote setting and dramatic scenery make Phoksundo one of the major highlights of the Upper Dolpo Trek, and you will spend the night at a campsite near the lake.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today is a rest and acclimatization day at Phoksundo Lake. After several days of trekking, this break provides valuable time to adjust to the increasing altitude while enjoying one of the most beautiful landscapes in Dolpo. You can explore the lakeshore and surrounding area at a comfortable pace.
The area around Phoksundo offers spectacular views of the lake, surrounding cliffs, forests, and mountain scenery. You may also explore the nearby traditional settlement and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the remote Dolpo region before continuing toward the higher valleys and mountain passes.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
After breakfast, leave the beautiful surroundings of Phoksundo Lake and continue deeper into the remote Dolpo wilderness. The trail follows the valley beyond the lake, passing through rugged landscapes and narrow mountain terrain as you gradually leave the lower Phoksundo area behind.
The day's walk takes you toward Phoksundo Khola, where the environment becomes increasingly wild and isolated. Surrounded by high cliffs and barren mountain slopes, the trail provides a strong sense of entering the high-altitude heart of Dolpo. After reaching camp, enjoy a well-earned rest and prepare for the challenging days ahead.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today begins with a steady ascent toward Phoksundo Bhanjyang. The trail climbs through increasingly rugged and open mountain terrain, with the vegetation becoming more sparse as you gain altitude. The changing landscape offers impressive views of the surrounding peaks, deep valleys, and remote Himalayan wilderness.
The climb is demanding, so maintaining a steady pace is important. After approximately seven hours of trekking, reach Phoksundo Bhanjyang, a high-altitude campsite before the crossing of Kang La Pass. The evening is spent resting and preparing for the next day's challenging pass crossing.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today is one of the most challenging and spectacular days of the Upper Dolpo Trek as you cross Kang La Pass, reaching approximately 5,151 meters. The trail climbs steadily toward the pass, and as you gain altitude, the landscape becomes increasingly barren and dramatic, with wide views across the surrounding Himalayan valleys.
After reaching the top of Kang La, take time to appreciate the extraordinary mountain scenery before beginning the descent toward Shey. The trail eventually reaches the remote and sacred Shey Gompa, situated in a beautiful high-altitude valley. Arriving at Shey marks an important milestone on the journey into Upper Dolpo.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today is a rest and acclimatization day at Shey Gompa after the demanding crossing of Kang La Pass. The peaceful surroundings provide an opportunity to recover while gradually adapting to the high altitude. The remote setting of Shey, surrounded by rugged mountains, creates a remarkable atmosphere for rest and exploration.
You can explore the ancient Shey Gompa and its surrounding area while learning more about the spiritual traditions of Dolpo. The nearby landscapes associated with Crystal Mountain add to the cultural and natural significance of this remote Himalayan settlement.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Leave Shey Gompa after breakfast and continue across the high mountain landscape toward Saldang La Pass. The trail climbs through barren slopes and remote valleys, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the distinctive high-altitude terrain of Upper Dolpo.
After crossing Saldang La at approximately 4,785 meters, descend toward Namduna Gaun. The change in landscape and the appearance of traditional mountain settlements make this section particularly rewarding. Arrive at Namduna Gaun after a demanding day and settle into camp for the evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's trek continues toward Saldang, one of the largest and most important traditional villages in Upper Dolpo. The trail gradually descends through the high mountain landscape, passing barren hillsides, cultivated areas, and traditional settlements that reflect the distinctive lifestyle of the Dolpo people.
As you approach Saldang, the valley opens into a more settled landscape with traditional stone and mud-built houses spread across the slopes. After reaching the village, enjoy time to explore its surroundings and experience the unique atmosphere of one of the most renowned settlements in Upper Dolpo.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today is dedicated to exploring Saldang and its surrounding valley. The village is known for its traditional architecture, terraced fields, monasteries, and distinctive Tibetan-influenced culture. Walking through the settlement provides an opportunity to observe the traditional way of life that has developed in this remote Himalayan environment.
You can explore the village and nearby cultural sites at a relaxed pace while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains. The rest day also provides valuable time to rest before continuing deeper into the Upper Dolpo region toward Yangze Gompa and Sibu.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
After breakfast, leave Saldang and continue along the remote trails of Upper Dolpo toward Yangze Gompa. The route follows the high mountain valley through rugged slopes, barren hills, and scattered traditional settlements. The landscape remains peaceful and isolated, with dramatic views of the surrounding mountains.
The trail gradually leads toward Yangze Gompa, an important religious site in the remote Dolpo region. Along the way, you can observe the traditional lifestyle of local communities and the distinctive architecture of the high-altitude villages. After reaching the campsite near Yangze Gompa, enjoy the quiet surroundings and rest for the evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today, continue trekking through the remote valleys of Upper Dolpo toward Sibu. The trail passes through rugged mountain terrain, open slopes, and narrow valleys, with the surrounding landscape becoming increasingly dramatic as you travel farther from the established settlements.
The day's journey provides a true wilderness experience, with few signs of modern development and expansive views across the Himalayan terrain. After approximately six hours of walking, reach Sibu and settle into camp. Enjoy the peaceful mountain surroundings and prepare for the upcoming ascent toward Jeng La.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
After breakfast, leave Sibu and begin the gradual climb toward Jeng La Phedi. The trail enters a more rugged and open mountain environment, with sparse vegetation and wide views of the surrounding high-altitude valleys. The increasing elevation makes the walk more demanding, so a steady pace and proper hydration are important.
After several hours of trekking, arrive at Jeng La Phedi, the campsite below Jeng La Pass. This remote location provides an impressive Himalayan setting and serves as an important stopping point before crossing the pass. Spend the evening resting and preparing for the following day's mountain crossing.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's trek crosses Jeng La Pass, one of the significant high points of the Upper Dolpo route. The trail climbs steadily toward the pass, and from the top you can enjoy broad views of the surrounding mountain valleys and rugged Himalayan landscape before beginning the descent.
After crossing the pass, continue downhill toward Tokyu Gaon. The descent gradually brings you into a more settled landscape, with traditional villages and cultivated areas appearing along the valley. Arrive at Tokyu Gaon after approximately five hours of trekking and enjoy a well-earned rest at camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Leave Tokyu Gaon and continue toward Dho Tarap, one of the most important settlements in the Dolpo region. The trail follows the broad valley through dramatic mountain scenery, passing traditional villages, cultivated fields, and rugged hillsides shaped by the high-altitude environment.
As you approach Dho Tarap, the valley becomes more open and the traditional character of the settlement becomes increasingly visible. Dho Tarap is known for its distinctive culture, Buddhist traditions, and traditional way of life, making it an important cultural highlight of the Upper Dolpo Trek.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today is a rest and exploration day in Dho Tarap. After many days of trekking through high mountain terrain, the day provides time to relax and recover while enjoying the unique environment of this traditional Himalayan settlement.
Explore the villages, monasteries, traditional houses, and surrounding valley while learning more about the culture and lifestyle of the Dolpo communities. The combination of dramatic mountain scenery and centuries-old traditions makes Dho Tarap one of the most memorable cultural stops on the trek.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
After breakfast, leave Dho Tarap and begin the gradual descent along the Tarap Khola. The trail follows the river through a dramatic mountain valley, with rugged cliffs, rocky slopes, and changing vegetation creating a striking contrast to the high barren landscapes experienced earlier in the trek.
As you descend, the air becomes warmer and the landscape gradually becomes greener. After approximately six hours of trekking, reach Tarap Khola at Kamakharka and settle into camp. The lower elevation provides a welcome change as you continue the return journey toward Khanigaon, Tarakot, and Dunai.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
After breakfast, continue the descent from Tarap Khola toward Khanigaon. The trail follows the river valley through increasingly greener surroundings, with the rugged high-altitude landscape gradually giving way to lower mountain terrain. The changing scenery provides a pleasant contrast to the barren valleys and high passes crossed earlier in the trek.
The route passes through remote mountain settlements and along sections of the river before reaching Khanigaon. After approximately five hours of trekking, settle into camp and enjoy the warmer climate and more comfortable altitude as the journey continues toward Tarakot and Dunai.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today, continue trekking toward Tarakot, following the valley through a mixture of forests, rocky slopes, cultivated land, and traditional settlements. The trail gradually descends and the surrounding landscape becomes greener as you move farther away from the high-altitude environment of Upper Dolpo.
Tarakot is a historic settlement situated along the river valley and has long been an important stopping point for travelers moving through this part of Dolpo. After reaching Tarakot, enjoy time to rest and appreciate the changing landscape as the trek approaches its final stages.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
After breakfast, begin the final full trekking day toward Dunai. The trail follows the valley and river through lower mountain landscapes, passing forests, suspension bridges, cultivated fields, and local settlements along the way. The surroundings become increasingly familiar as you return toward the administrative center of Dolpo.
After approximately six hours of walking, arrive in Dunai, marking the completion of the main trekking circuit. Take time to relax after the long journey and celebrate the successful completion of your trek through the remote landscapes of Dolpo.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse in Dunai
After breakfast, begin the short final trek from Dunai to Juphal. The approximately three-hour walk follows the familiar lower valley landscape and provides a final opportunity to enjoy the mountains and villages of Dolpo before leaving the region. Upon reaching Juphal, prepare for your return flight.
Take the flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj and connect with your onward flight to Kathmandu. After arriving in Kathmandu, our representative will transfer you to your hotel. You can relax and enjoy the comfort of the city after completing your challenging journey through Upper Dolpo.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Today is a relaxed day in Kathmandu after your long Himalayan adventure. You can rest at the hotel, enjoy some free time in the city, or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts. This leisure day also provides a comfortable buffer following the domestic flights from the remote Dolpo region.
In the evening, join your trekking team for a farewell dinner featuring a traditional Nepali cultural program. Enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine, traditional music, and cultural performances while sharing memories of your Upper Dolpo journey with the Mountain King Treks team.
Meals: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
After breakfast, your Upper Dolpo adventure comes to an end. Depending on your international flight schedule, enjoy your remaining free time at the hotel before our representative transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.
We hope you leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of the remote landscapes, high mountain passes, ancient monasteries, traditional villages, and unique cultural experiences of Upper Dolpo. It has been our pleasure to accompany you, and we look forward to welcoming you again for another Himalayan adventure with Mountain King Treks.
Meals: Breakfast
Trip includes
- Airport arrival and departure transfers in Kathmandu by private vehicle
- 3 nights' accommodation in Kathmandu on Bed and Breakfast (BB) basis
- 1 night's accommodation in Nepalgunj on Bed and Breakfast (BB) basis
- Domestic flights: Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Juphal and Juphal–Nepalgunj–Kathmandu
- Private vehicle transportation for required airport and local transfers in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj
- Experienced, licensed trekking guide throughout the trek
- Necessary trekking support staff, including cooks, porters, and camping crew
- Full-board meals during the trekking and camping section: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Fully supported camping throughout the trekking route
- Quality two-person trekking tents and necessary camping equipment
- Dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, tables, chairs, kitchen equipment, and other camping supplies
- Trekking staff food, accommodation, insurance, salary, and equipment
- Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit and Shey–Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit
- TIMS or other applicable trekking registration and documentation
- First aid kit and basic medical supplies for emergencies
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with a traditional Nepali cultural program
- Government taxes and service charges
Not included
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa and visa-related expenses
- Travel insurance, including emergency medical treatment and helicopter evacuation
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, internet, battery charging, and other services
- Bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and other personal drinks
- Meals and accommodation other than those specifically mentioned in the itinerary
- Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, cooks, and other trekking staff
- Personal medication and medical expenses
- Emergency evacuation or rescue costs
- Extra accommodation or meals caused by flight delays, bad weather, natural disasters, strikes, or other unforeseen circumstances
- Any additional costs arising from itinerary changes beyond the company's control
- Any services, expenses, or activities not specifically mentioned under Trip Includes
