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Nepal
27 Days
US$4,100
This trip includes
Ground transportation in Nepal
Hotels & tea-house accommodation
All meals except in Kathmandu
Local flights cost covered in itinerary
Guided tour & trek throughout the trip
02 - 10
Kathamndu - Nepalgunj - Juphal - Phoksundo - Shey Gompa - Juphal - Nepalgunj - Kathamndu
Summer, Autumn
Moderate
Nepal
5,360 m
Many years ago, farmers and nomads from Tibet were the only people to settle in this remote region, known as the Upper Dolpo Trek. This means that even today, it is one of the least inhabited places on earth. The Upper Dolpo Trek is a trekking trail in a tranquil area of Nepal. It has been exclusive to foreign trekkers and mountain climbers since 1989, which has helped preserve its natural beauty and rugged charm. The region is relatively untouched; thus, it’s known for its pristine beauty.
During your trek to Upper Dolpo, you can expect to explore one of Nepal’s most adventurous trekking routes. After landing in the bustling Capital, you will take two flights to Jhuphal (Lower Dolpo) and begin your adventure with a trek to Dunai. From here, you will continue your journey for three days before reaching the stunning Phoksundo Lake and marveling at its crystal-clear waters.
You can also see some of the highest and most renowned mountains in the Himalayas. But it’s not just nature that will leave you in awe. This trek offers a rich cultural experience, with numerous opportunities to explore the infamous Gompas and remote villages.
The cost of the Upper Dolpo Trek can vary depending on several factors, including duration, inclusions, and the chosen trekking agency. On average, this trek costs between $ 4,000 and $6,000, which should cover permits, guides, accommodations, meals, and transportation.
To ensure a great experience in the remote and culturally rich Upper Dolpo region, you should choose a reliable trekking company that offers a detailed cost breakdown and prioritizes your safety.
The ideal time to trek in Upper Dolpo is late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is stable, and the temperatures are moderate, making it the perfect time to explore the region’s pristine landscapes, unique culture, and diverse flora and fauna.
Spring is the perfect season to embark on a thrilling trek to the breathtaking landscapes of Lower Dolpo. In the early spring, snow in Upper Dolpo can pose challenges, as some passes become extremely difficult or impossible to cross. For Upper Dolpo, the ideal time to visit is from mid-April to the end of May, during the beautiful spring months.
The Upper Dolpo trek offers a plethora of breathtaking sights throughout the year. You see the beauty surrounding you, from the mesmerizing Phoksundo Lake to the peaceful Shey Gompa. You can also immerse yourself in the rich Tibetan culture as you explore the monasteries and witness the awe-inspiring views of Dhaulagiri.
Another perfect time for the Upper Dolpo Trek is early autumn (September to October). You should plan because, as November approaches, the weather and snow will become more challenging; therefore, September and October are the most enjoyable months.
However, considering the location in the Himalayas, it would be wise to prepare for unexpected snowfall. The weather is expected to be delightful, with clear skies. This is also the harvest season, which adds an interesting aspect to your journey through local settlements.
The most remote area is in northwestern Nepal, behind the Dhaulagiri range. The trail was only opened for visitors in 1989 and remained a restricted area. A month-long journey on land without houses, internet, or electricity is not a joke.
The experts have marked the Upper Dolpo trek difficulty as “Challenging.” This is among Nepal’s most demanding and longest trekking trails. Therefore, you should be aware of the challenges you will encounter during this Dolpo trek.
The Dolpo trek package lasts 28 days. Trekking for a month and being detached from all worldly pleasures demands considerable commitment. We will walk for 20 days, covering a distance of 250 km to 300 km. Walking more than 12-15 km in such steep mountains is demanding. You will walk 5-6 hours daily, up to 9 hours, while crossing the high passes.
The Upper Dolpo trek is one of the most challenging treks due to its altitude. We begin the walk from Jhupa, which lies below 2000 meters, and climb to the Kang La Pass elevation of 5360 meters. We will gain almost 500 meters every day.
Once you cross Dunai, you will likely have altitude sickness (everyone in the three trekkers develops altitude sickness in Nepal). Therefore, you must look for symptoms like headache, body pain, vomiting, shortness of breath, etc.
As you are aware, the Upper Dolpo Trek is a challenging trek that takes place in a remote region of Nepal. Therefore, you need guides and porters for an enjoyable and comfortable trekking experience. Their expertise and knowledge will make the journey much easier.
The trekking guides will lead the trek by explaining the history and offering assistance whenever needed. Porters are incredibly useful when carrying heavy bags during the trek. Having guides and porters by your side will ensure your long trekking journey is both safe and comfortable.
You can choose a shorter variation of the Upper Dolpo trek. You can trek from Juphal to Lake Phoksundo and back if you’re up for an adventure. This incredible journey typically spans around eight days. Other variations link Dolpo to Mustang and/or the Annapurna region towards the east.
If you want to extend your Upper Dolpo trek, consider adding the Upper Dolpo to the Annapurna Traverse, including a visit to the Dhorpatan Wildlife Reserve. This route will add approximately a week to your journey. During three days, you won’t encounter any settlements.
Another variation is the Upper Dolpo to Jomsom trek. Jomson lies in the Lower Mustang region of Nepal and boasts a vibrant culture with strong Tibetan influences. Located in the rain shadow of Mount Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, it provides a unique perspective of the Annapurna Himal.
Another exciting option is the Dolpo to Rara Traverse via Shey Gompa. This trek is approximately the same length as the regular Upper Dolpo trek. Still, it takes a different route, starting from Shey Gompa and ending at Rara Lake in the Jumla and Mugu districts. Rara Lake is the deepest lake in Nepal.
When embarking on the Upper Dolpo Trek, you must prioritize safety and be mindful of potential risks. You should also be cautious of the weather, changing conditions during the trek, and the water supply in the Upper Dolpo trekking trail.
You must bring medicines and a first-aid kit during your journey. Trekkers must also be aware of any wildlife threats that may arise throughout the trek and of the possibility of altitude sickness. For more safety, you should trek with a guide.
If you plan to trek in the Upper Dolpo region of Nepal, you must obtain a special permit from a registered trekking agency. Additionally, you must acquire the Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit and the Dolpo Restricted Area Permit. It is essential to comply with all regulations when exploring this culturally significant and remote area.
You need a special Upper Dolpo Trekking Permit to hike in the restricted region of Dolpo. Besides the Dolpo permit, you also need a Shey-Phoksundo National Park license. The Lower Dolpo permit costs USD 20 per person for the first seven days. If you extend your stay, you will be charged USD 5 per day.
You can purchase a Shey-Phoksundo National Park Permit at the park’s gate for USD 30 per person. The money raised is used to conserve the regional flora and fauna.
Upper Dolpo offers three kinds of accommodation depending on the season and route. The first one is a hotel in Kathmandu. These are pretty luxurious three-star hotels with all the necessary amenities.
You will stay in tea houses in the lower region – small yet comfortable local lodges. The rooms only have two single beds, a mattress, pillows, and a clean white sheet. A few clubs in the higher region might close most of the year.
We can observe three kinds of culture in Dolpo: lower, upper, and middle. Hindus inhabit the lower region, while the middle area is home to a blend of Hindu and Buddhist people, including those practicing Shamanism and Boni. A cluster of Magar people speaks the typical “Kaile” language.
The Upper region was home to Buddhist and Bon cults. Tibetan Buddhism has driven the culture of these “Dolpo-pa.” The people speak the ‘Khaam’ or ‘Poike’ language and strictly follow their culture. Bönpo monasteries, such as Shey Gompa, are the foremost destinations for pilgrims aiming to complete the circuit trek.
The salt trader first used this trail, and the story was depicted in the movie called “Himalaya” by Eric Valli. During the summer, this route was a trade route for “Yarchagompa” (caterpillar fungus). You can also participate in the unique Festivals of Upper Dolpo. Check Cultural tours of Nepal.
The essential gear and equipment during the camping trek are:
Gear
Upper Body
Hands
Lower Body
Footwears
Personal Items
Upper Dolpo Trek is Nepal’s most prolonged, remote, and strenuous trek. So, naturally, it is also the most expensive trek in Nepal. The Upper Dolpo Trek cost with MyEverestTrip is $ 4,495. The most significant part of this cost goes for the staff who accompany you, i.e., the guide, porter, and the food.
Additionally, it includes the domestic flight to Jhupal, the Dolpo Permit Cost, which is substantial, and accommodation. We might have to set up camps in many parts, and all that trekking gear costs a lot. In addition to the $4,495 cost of the Dolpo Trek package, you will need approximately $500 of your funds.
According to the MyEverestTrek Upper Dolpo trek itinerary, we will stop at Phoksundo, Shey Gompa, and Dho Tarap for acclimatization. These acclimatization days are essential to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. It’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, eat nutritious foods, take strolls, and ensure you get ample rest.
You can check the Tour Everest short Trek for an easier Journey.
Yes, instead of visiting Dolpo and returning to Dunai, the trekkers can also reach Jomsom from Dolpo. Dolpo and Mustang lie pretty apart.
Upper Dolpa is 4,530 m. to 5,115 m. High.
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