Upper Dolpo Trekking-23 Days

Namaste!!!!  Welcome to this magnificent country, Nepal. Upon arrival at Kathmandu international Airport (TIA), one of the members of our company will be awaiting your welcome.Then, you will be shifted to your corresponding hotel. You can refresh your long jetlagged and the office members course for the permits and other legal processes. In the evening, you can stroll around the hotel, testing Nepalese cuisines and enjoying the nightlife of Thamel. 

Embark on the Dolpo Trek, one of the most preserved and remote trekking regions in Nepal. Your journey begins with a warm breakfast, followed by a transfer to the airport for your flight to Nepalgunj. This scenic flight offers breathtaking views of the giant Himalayan ranges, rolling hills, lush valleys, and dense forests. In just under an hour, you’ll arrive in Nepalgunj, a major city in western Nepal near the Indian border and close to Bardia National Park. After checking into your hotel, enjoy a relaxing evening walk to explore the vibrant city. This marks the beginning of your unforgettable Dolpo adventure.

Having our early meal, we fly to Jupal in the morning. From the tiny plane you can view the picturesque scene of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs. After the 45 minutes of flight, you land at Jupal, one of the core connections of the Dolpa with other regions. Our other trekking staffs are awaiting us there. After meeting our porters and letting them our duffle bags, we begin our journey. Passing the beautiful terrains, terraced fields, following the slender gorge of the Bheri River. Continuing the trek, we reach Dunai- secretarial headquarter of the Dolpo section. Rest of the day, we explore Dunai town and spend overnight there.

The trek from Dunai to Chhepka village marks the beginning of your journey into the remote Dolpo region. Starting from Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpa, the trail follows the beautiful Thuli Bheri River, passing through terraced fields, pine forests, and traditional villages. You’ll enter the Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal’s largest national park, known for its rich biodiversity. The trail gradually ascends, offering scenic views and peaceful surroundings. After 5–6 hours of trekking, you’ll reach the charming village of Chhepka, nestled amid lush greenery. It’s an ideal place to rest, surrounded by nature and the sound of flowing rivers.

The trek from Chhepka to Jharana (3,375m) is a scenic 5-hour journey through lush forests, narrow valleys, and cascading waterfalls. As you follow the Suligad River upstream, the trail offers stunning views of towering cliffs and diverse flora. One of the main highlights is the breathtaking glimpse of the Jharana Waterfall, one of the highest in Nepal, which you’ll see before reaching your overnight stop. The peaceful surroundings, fresh mountain air, and occasional sightings of wildlife make this a memorable part of the Dolpo trek. Jharana offers a serene setting to rest and prepare for the journey ahead.

The trek from Jharana to Phoksundo Lake (3,611m) is a short yet incredibly scenic 3–4 hour journey. The trail ascends gradually through pine and birch forests, offering mesmerizing views of the cascading Jharana Waterfall along the way. As you gain elevation, the landscape opens up to reveal the striking turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal’s most beautiful and untouched high-altitude lakes. Passing small settlements and prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, you’ll arrive at the traditional Bon village of Ringmo. The serene environment and spiritual atmosphere make this a truly unforgettable highlight of the Dolpo trekking experience.

Today is a well-deserved rest and acclimatization day at Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,611m), essential for adjusting to the higher altitude. After several days of trekking, this break allows your body to adapt while also giving you the opportunity to fully enjoy the pristine beauty of the lake. You can spend the day exploring the surrounding natural wonders, including the serene turquoise waters and peaceful alpine landscapes. A visit to the nearby Bon Buddhist monastery offers insight into the region’s spiritual heritage, while a walk through the traditional Ringmo village provides a glimpse into the unique local culture and lifestyle.

The trek from Shey Phoksundo Lake to Sallaghari (3,630m) takes around 5 hours and offers a remarkable journey through alpine landscapes. Leaving the tranquil lakeside behind, the trail follows a narrow, rugged path along cliffs and ridgelines, providing dramatic views of the turquoise lake below. As you ascend gradually, the terrain becomes more remote and peaceful, surrounded by pine forests and rocky hills. Along the way, you may encounter yak caravans and wildlife unique to the Dolpo region. Arriving at Sallaghari, you’ll camp beneath tall pine trees, surrounded by raw Himalayan beauty—an ideal spot to rest before higher elevations.

IThe trek from Sallaghari to Nangdala Base Camp (4,717m) is a 5-hour journey through stunning high-altitude terrain. The trail gradually ascends through dense pine and juniper forests before opening into alpine meadows with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. As you climb higher, the landscape becomes more rugged and remote, offering a true sense of wilderness. Along the way, you’ll pass traditional yak herder shelters and small seasonal settlements, providing insight into the resilient mountain lifestyle. The views of the towering cliffs and deep valleys are breathtaking. Reaching Nangdala Base Camp, you’ll camp beneath dramatic Himalayan backdrops, surrounded by absolute tranquility.

The trek from Nangdala Base Camp to Shey Gompa (4,500m) via the Nangda-La Pass (5,360m) is one of the most rewarding and challenging days of the journey, taking 6–7 hours. As you ascend the steep trail to the pass, the landscape transforms into a dramatic high-altitude desert with sweeping views of the Dhaulagiri range and the mystical valleys below. Reaching Nangda-La Pass feels like stepping onto the roof of the world—wind-blown, vast, and spiritually powerful. From the pass, a descent through barren, otherworldly terrain leads you to Shey Gompa, a sacred 800-year-old monastery nestled beneath Crystal Mountain. A truly unforgettable day.

Today is dedicated to acclimatization and rest at Shey Gompa (4,500m), allowing your body to adjust to the high altitude and prepare for the days ahead. This sacred monastery, perched on a rocky cliff, offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere perfect for reflection and rejuvenation. Take time to explore the ancient gompa’s intricate murals and prayer halls, absorbing the deep cultural heritage of the region. Enjoy the panoramic views of surrounding peaks and valleys, while soaking in the peaceful silence of this remote Himalayan sanctuary. Resting here ensures you are physically and mentally ready for the continued journey.

The trek from Shey Gompa to Namduna Gaun (4,800m) via Saldang La Pass (5,200m) is a spectacular 6–7 hour journey across high mountain terrain. The ascent to Saldang La offers breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas and the expansive Dolpo valleys below. Crossing the pass, you enter a stark, windswept alpine landscape marked by rugged cliffs and sparse vegetation. Descending toward Namduna Gaun, a remote traditional village, you’ll witness authentic Tibetan-style houses and experience the region’s unique culture. This challenging trek combines dramatic mountain vistas with a deep connection to Dolpo’s ancient heritage.

The trek from Namduna Gaun to Saldang (3,620m) takes 4–5 hours through varied and captivating landscapes. Leaving the high alpine environment, the trail gradually descends through rugged terrain dotted with prayer flags and traditional stone walls. You’ll pass through serene valleys framed by towering peaks and expansive views of distant Himalayan ranges. Along the way, the landscape shifts from barren slopes to cultivated fields and scattered villages, reflecting the transition to a more settled region. Arriving in Saldang, one of Dolpo’s largest villages, you’ll find a vibrant community rich in Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, and welcoming locals, making it a rewarding stop

The trek from Saldang to Chhore Gaun (4,300m) takes around 6 hours and leads you deeper into the hidden heart of Upper Dolpo. The trail winds through barren hills, ancient trade routes, and scenic ridgelines, offering wide views of rugged cliffs and remote valleys. You’ll pass traditional villages like Namdo, where whitewashed houses, chortens, and fluttering prayer flags reflect the region’s strong Tibetan Buddhist influence. Along the way, you may encounter yak caravans and locals in traditional attire, giving you an authentic cultural experience. Chhore Gaun, a peaceful and secluded village, welcomes you with stunning Himalayan backdrops and genuine mountain hospitality.

The trek from Chhore Gaun to Takshi (4,200m) is a captivating 6-hour journey through the remote highlands of Upper Dolpo. The trail follows ancient trade paths alongside high cliffs, barren ridges, and deep valleys shaped by centuries of isolation. You’ll walk through dramatic mountain scenery, where the silence is broken only by the wind and distant yak bells. Passing small settlements and chortens, the route offers glimpses into the unique lifestyle of Dolpo’s resilient people. Takshi, a traditional village surrounded by stark yet stunning landscapes, offers a peaceful resting place and a chance to experience the untouched culture of the region.

The trek from Takshi to Dho Tarap (4,090m) takes you on a 5-hour scenic journey through wide valleys, ancient trails, and culturally rich landscapes. As you descend gradually, the terrain shifts from arid hills to more open, grassy meadows. The trail offers stunning views of rugged cliffs, scattered Tibetan-style settlements, and the vast beauty of the high-altitude Dolpo region. Along the way, you’ll pass chortens, mani walls, and perhaps encounter nomadic herders with their yak caravans. Arriving at Dho Tarapa beautiful village known for its ancient monasteries and vibrant Bon and Buddhist traditions marks a cultural and scenic highlight of the trek.

A rest day in Dho Tarap offers both acclimatization and cultural immersion in one of the highest year-round settlements in the world. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and open valleys, Dho Tarap is rich in both Bon and Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Spend the day exploring centuries-old monasteries like Ribo Bhumpa and Mekhyem Gompa, learning about their spiritual significance. Wander through the village to observe traditional stone houses, colorful prayer flags, and locals in traditional attire. Engage with the warm, hospitable residents and discover their unique way of life, shaped by isolation and harsh climates. This day offers a rare cultural and spiritual experience.

The trek from Dho Tarap to Nawarpani (3,545m) takes about 5 hours and offers a pleasant descent through the stunning Tarap Valley. Leaving behind the peaceful village of Dho Tarap, the trail follows the Tarap Khola, winding through grassy meadows, narrow gorges, and rocky paths. You’ll pass traditional yak herder shelters and small chortens, with views of the rugged cliffs and cascading river beside you. The landscape slowly changes from alpine terrain to more forested sections. This part of the journey is peaceful and remote, allowing time to soak in the natural beauty before arriving at the quiet campsite of Nawarpani.

The trek from Nawarpani to Laini Odhar (3,370m) is a scenic 4-hour walk along the banks of the Tarap Khola, offering a peaceful and immersive experience in nature. The trail gently ascends and descends through narrow gorges, rocky paths, and sections of pine and juniper forests. With the soothing sound of the river flowing beside you and birdsong echoing through the canyon walls, the journey feels serene and refreshing. Occasional wooden bridges and traditional stone shelters add charm to the route. Reaching Laini Odhar, nestled beneath steep cliffs, you'll find a quiet and cozy campsite perfect for rest and reflection.

The trek from Laini Odhar to Lingdo (2,390m) is a 6-hour descent through dramatic and ever-changing landscapes. The trail follows the winding Tarap Khola, cutting through deep gorges, narrow cliffs, and forested sections, offering a mix of adventure and natural beauty. As you lose altitude, the air grows warmer, and the vegetation becomes greener and denser. Along the way, you may pass small settlements, prayer flags, and the occasional herder. The trail is peaceful, with the sound of the river guiding your steps. Arriving at Lingdo, a small, traditional village, you’re welcomed by terraced fields and the charm of rural Dolpo life.

The trek from Lingdo to Dunai (2,140m) and onward to Juphal is a full day’s journey, taking around 7 hours. The trail descends gradually through lush hillsides, terraced fields, and traditional villages, following the course of the Thuli Bheri River. As you approach Dunai, the landscape becomes more lively, with increasing signs of local life and activity. After a short break in Dunai, the final stretch to Juphal involves a steady climb on a well-trodden path, passing through cultivated fields and scenic ridges. Reaching Juphal, the gateway to Dolpo, marks the end of your remote mountain adventure with unforgettable memories.

Catching the early flight from Jhuphal, we land at Nepalgunj airport viewing magnificent views of the snow-clad peaks, vistas, and terrains. Having some rest, we again boarded for Kathmandu. Having around 1 hour’s flight, we land at the domestic sites of Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). A vehicle will be waiting for us to transfer to our hotel. In the evening you can join the farewell dinner organized by Himalayan Trekking Path in a cultural restaurant at Thamel. As this is your last day in Nepal, you can buy some Nepalese cultural souvenirs for your loved ones.

You are leaving this country today. After the 23 days’ togetherness, you are leaving us. Thank you for your patience throughout the journey. Good Bye!!!!!