Dolpo To Mustang Trek

 “Mountains are the beginning and end of all natural scenery.” – John Ruskin

 About Trip 

Dolpo is one of Nepal's most fantastic and remote sites, a secret valley in the far-western Himalayas. Its breathtaking scenery, snow-capped mountains, ancient culture, and pristine wilderness endow the area with the aura of an untouched world—a younger sibling of Tibet's "Roof of the World" but even more peaceful and pure. The pastoral beauty, high-altitude desert landscape, and spiritual atmosphere create an unforgettable trekking experience.

The Upper Dolpo to Mustang Trek leads trekkers into some of the highest human habitations in the world that are completely cut off from modern civilization for a greater part of the year by heavy snow and rugged terrain. Apart from the breathtaking natural beauty, this trekking expedition offers cultural experience of one of the last strongholds of the Bon-Po religion, a spiritual tradition even older than Tibetan Buddhism. Sacred monasteries, chortens, and religious symbols dot the path, echoing the deep beliefs that dictate daily life in these highlands.

Tibetan culture predominates throughout Dolpo, and one finds its impact on the people's language, architecture, traditions, and religious practices. The people still have a nomadic lifestyle, relying on the ancient trade routes with Tibet. In fact, the very ancient salt trading route is still used in some parts of Upper Dolpo, so this trek is as much a walk in the mountains as it is a journey through time.

As you walk through high passes and low valleys, the contrast between Mustang and Dolpo reveals itself. Where Dolpo remains rugged and traditional, Mustang has become linked and luxurious because of its historical location on the Silk Route. It is this diversity that contributes to the experience as a whole, offering trekkers both solitude and cultural richness.

Shey Phoksundo Lake is one of the most stunning highlights of this trek—a turquoise glacial lake that sits like a gem in the midst of nowhere—still, calm, and holy. Surrounded by naked cliffs and icy summits, it leaves trekkers spellbound.

The journey from Mustang to Dolpo is arduous yet immensely rewarding, concentrating the best of classic Himalayan culture, religion, and breathtaking wilderness. It's a trail not many have walked, but one which leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those who do.

 Upper Dolpo to Mustang Trek Cost 

When organizing any vacation or getaway, one of the first things travelers consider is the overall trip cost. This includes not only the obvious expenses like flights and accommodation, but also hidden costs such as local transportation, meals, entrance fees, travel insurance, and souvenirs micelineos expeses. Budgeting for your trip cost in advance helps avoid financial surprises and allows you to enjoy your journey stress-free. Many travelers find it helpful to compare prices online, take advantage of package deals, and travel during off-peak seasons to lower their overall trip expenses. Remember, a well-planned budget ensures your adventure remains memorable for the right reasons—not because it broke the bank. 

Here, Mountain Mate  Treks offers you the best deal of cheapest Dolpo - Mustang trek for matching the cost for budget  or solo travel, full board Dolpo - Mustang trek price for idol or standard service  according to trekkers interest by the proper professional  research on the basis of locals connection in day to day updating basis.

 Full-board Package cost  
This cost is designed by the mountain mate treks for the service oriented trekkers who are looking for comfortable service within the best service providing just below than the recognized branded hotels and tea houses in the trail, Where trekkers can enjoy there trip without worrying there personal managements.

Half Board Package cost
This cost is designed by the mountain mate treks for the budget ,solo travelers and students. Just to overcome the hustle of organizing transportation, permits, flights , accomadation etc. for assisting our Dolpo to Mustantg Treks within the Nepal goverment's laws, social values and norms, national parks's rules and regulation. which helps trekkers avoid risks in the trail, understanding the goverment rules and regulation, supporting wildlife and vegetation and stress free  trip.

 Includes And Excludes In Service 

Price List 

For the group join in full board please check in Fix Departure 

Also, Mountain Mate Treks  is recognized as best agency for organizing flexible route, itineraries, and cost  by  counsulting with the trekkers individually from Alternative Low budget trip to Luxurious Premium Packages.
So, fill free to  Contact Us  for  customize Trip, for further information and inquries.   (How To Pay)   (Booking FAQS).

 Best season for Dolpo to Mustang Trek 

It's been practise that Dolpo - Mustang Trek is possible to organize in all over the here by figuring out the possible provablity and the  professional preparation within some fluctuation in flight delays.Besides that the best times to trek to Dolpo - Mustang Trek are during the spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) seasons. These periods offer favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and excellent visibility, enhancing your trekking experience.

• Spring Season (March–May)
  • Weather: Mild temperatures with clear skies.
  • Landscape: Rhododendrons and other wildflowers are in full bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape.
  • Crowds: This is a popular trekking season, so trails and teahouses can be busy.
  • Highlights: Ideal for those who appreciate the beauty of nature and don't mind the busier trails..
     
• Autumn Season (September–November)
  • Weather: Post-monsoon weather is typically clear and stable, with fantastic visibility of the mountains.
  • Landscape: The monsoon rains clear the atmosphere, offering some of the best mountain views of the year.
  • Crowds: This is the most popular time for trekking, leading to busier trails and teahouses.
  • Cultural Experience: Coincides with Nepal’s major festivals, such as Dashain and Tihar, offering a culturally rich experience..
     
• Winter Season (December–February)
  • Weather: Extremely cold temperatures, with the possibility of heavy snowfall.
  • Landscape: Clear skies provide stunning views of the snow-capped peaks.
  • Considerations: Not recommended for inexperienced trekkers due to harsh weather conditions and potential trail blockages..
     
• Monsoon Season (June–August)
  • Weather: Frequent heavy rainfall, leading to slippery trails and increased risk of landslides.
  • Visibility: Rain clouds can obscure scenery, reducing visibility.
  • Considerations: Not recommended for trekking due to unpredictable and potentially dangerous weather conditions..

 The spring and autumn seasons are ideal for planning your trek to Dolpo - Mustang Trek  These periods not only offer the best weather conditions but also provide opportunities to experience Nepal's rich cultural heritage.

 Essential Gear for Dolpo to Mustang  Trek 

Trekking to Dolpo - Mustang Trek requires careful gear selection due to the high altitude, cold weather, and variable terrain. Here’s a comprehensive list of essential gear for a safe and comfortable journey:

• Clothing - Base Layers:
  • Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms (2–3 sets)
     
• Clothing - Insulation Layers:
  • Fleece or down jacket (1)
  • Insulated pants (optional but useful in colder months)
     
• Clothing - Outer Layers:
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
  • Waterproof pants
     
• Clothing - Trekking Clothes:
  • Lightweight trekking pants (2 pairs)
  • Long-sleeve and short-sleeve moisture-wicking shirts (3–4)
  • Warm hat, sun hat, and buff or neck gaiter
  • Gloves: inner liner gloves and insulated outer gloves
  • Underwear and sports bras (quick-dry)
     
•  Footwear
  • Trekking boots (broken-in, waterproof)
  • Camp shoes/sandals (for resting at tea houses)
  • Wool or synthetic trekking socks (4–5 pairs)
  • Gaiters (optional, for snow or mud)
     

•  Gear and Equipment
  • Trekking backpack (30–40L for day use)
  • Duffel bag (carried by porter, if using one)
  • Sleeping bag (rated to -10°C or lower)
  • Sleeping bag liner (for extra warmth and hygiene)
  • Trekking poles (highly recommended)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Water bottles or hydration bladder (2–3 liters capacity)
  • Water purification method (tablets, filter, or UV sterilizer)
  • Sunglasses (UV protection)
  • Dry bags or zip-locks (for waterproofing clothes/electronics)
     

•  Health and Hygiene
  • Personal first aid kit (include altitude sickness meds like Diamox)
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, small towel, etc.)
  • Toilet paper and sanitary supplies (tea houses often don't provide)
     
•  Documents and Essentials
  • Passport and multiple passport-size photos
  • TIMS card and Everest National Park permit
  • Travel insurance (with high-altitude trekking coverage)
  • Cash (Nepali rupees – no ATMs en route)

For more details check  Best Trekking Tips In Nepal

 Altitude Sickness in Dolpo to Mustang Trek 
The Dolpo to Mustang Trek in Nepal reaches altitudes of up to 4,984 meters (16,352 ft) at Tserko Ri, making altitude sickness a potential concern, especially for trekkers who ascend too quickly.
Langtang is a relatively moderate trek, but altitude should be taken seriously. Trekkers with no prior high-altitude experience should plan conservatively and consider consulting with a guide about symptoms, Besides that Mt.Mate's Team  and guides take proper concern about the trekkers health and safety as major priority.

For more details check  Altitude Information 

Have an amazing and safe trek to Dolpo to Mustang — it's truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

SHORT ITINERARY

• Day 01: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (152m/499ft), Flying Distance: 367km, Duration- 40 minutes.

• Day 02: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,475m/8,120ft), and hike Sulighat(2,282m/7,487ft), Duration: 3 hours.

• Day 03: Trek from Sulighat to Renje(2,900m/9,514ft), Duration: 5 to 6 hours.

• Day 04: Trek from Renje to Ringmo Gaon(3,733m/12,247ft), Duration: 6 to 7 hours.

• Day 05: Ringmo Gaon Explore.

• Day 06: Trek from Ringmo Gaon to Forest Camp (4,919m/16,138ft), Duration: 6 to 7 hours.

• Day 07: Trek from Forest Camp to Nanda la phedi (3,756m/12,323ft), Duration: 5 to 6 hours.

• Day 08: Trek from Nanda la phedi to Sheygaon (4,160m/13,648ft), Duration: 7 to 8 hours. Via Nanda La Pass(5,360m/17,585ft).

• Day 09: Rest at Sheygaon.

• Day 10: Trek from Sheygaon to Namgung Gompa (4,430m/15,534ft),crossing Shey La Pass(5,100m/16,723ft), Duration: 6 to 7 hours.

• Day 11: Trek from Namgong Gompa to Saldang (3,770m/12,369ft), Duration: 4 to 5 hours.

• Day 12: Trek from Saldang to Khoma village (4,060m/13,320ft), Duration: 4 to 5 hours.

• Day 13: Trek from Khoma village to Shimegaon (3,870m/12,697ft), Duration: 5 to 6 hours.

• Day 14: Trek from Shimegaon to Tinjegaon (4,150m/13,615ft), Duration: 5 to 6 hours.

• Day 15: Trek from Tinjegaon to Rapka (4,535m/14,879ft), Duration: 5 to 6 hours.

• Day 16: Trek from Rapka to Charkabhot (4,110m/13,484ft), crossing Mola Pass (5,030m/16,530ft), Duration: 6 to 7 hours.

• Day 17: Trek from Charkabhot to Molum Sumna campsite (4,860m/15,945ft), Duration: 5 to 6 hours.

• Day 18: Trek from Molum Sumna to Sanga phedi (4,190m/13,747ft), Duration: 6 hours.

• Day 19: Trek from Sanga phedi to Sangda(3,710m/12,172ft), Duration: 4 to 5 hours.

• Day 20: Trek from Sanda to Kagbeni(2,800m/9,186ft), Duration: 6 to 7 hours.

• Day 21: Drive from Kagbeni to Pokhara(830m/2,723ft), Duration: 5 to 6 hours.

• Day 22: Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu(1,300m/4,265ft), Duration: 35 minutes.

DETAIL ITINERARY

• Day 01 - Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m)/ flight.  From Kathmandu, we take a bus or fly on any domestic carrier to Nepalgunj. Nepalgunj, a town in the western Terai, is very close to the Indian border and the Bardia Nationl Park. It is a major transport hub for western, mid-western and far-western regions of Nepal. Our representative will pick you up from the airport and take you to the hotel. Overnight stay will be at hotel that is 10 to 15 minutes drive from the airport.
   
• Day 02 - Nepalgunj to Juphal (2475m)/ flight and Juphal to Dunai/ 3 hrs trek.  Today we take a 35 minutes long flight to Juphal .Our trekking starts from Juphal. The trail from Juphal to Dunai is comfortable and easy as the trail on this part of trek also has few jeeps running to and fro. The first forty five minutes of the trek descends down to Kalagauda followed by two hours of hike along the trail above Thuli Bheri River. We trek by the riverside and pass Roop Ghar with the water mill and finally reach the Dunai (2150m) a small town, the head quarter of the district. Dunai has some schools government and private, college, police check post and some government offices. You can visit the Bon Stupa and school, Central Buddhist monastery and the very first English medium school across the river, From the Stupa you can have the view of whole town and another village, upper Dunai too.
   
• Day 03 - Dunai to Chhepka (2687m)/ 6 hrs.  The real adventure of Dolpo Mustang Trek begins today. As the trek begins we initially trek along classic trekking route of Dolpo via Sulighar, which is pretty much comfortable walk along the levelled trail. We shall produce the trekking permit to Dolpo and the Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit at the Sulighat Check-post. Now we are officially inside Shey Phoksundo National Park. Beyond Sulighat our trek follows the trail beside Phoksundo River till Kageni. As the trek goes further, the landscapes in the vicinity begin to change. We trek through the lush tropical forest frequently emerging at isolated mid-hill villages like Jutung and arrive to Shangta. At Shangta we cross the bridge twice- once over Phoksundo River and once over the confluence of Phoksundo Khola and Maiaba Khola and begin to head north towards Chhepka. Trekking upstream along the trail beside Phoksundo Khola for a while we arrive to Chhepka. We put our camps at an ideal location in Chhepka for the overnight stay.
   
• Day 04 - Chhepka to Chunuwar (3110m)/ 6 hrs.  Today the the trail leads you beside Phoksundo Khola- the trail of famous Lower Dolpa Circuit. We trek in the opposite direction of the river flow to Amchi Hospital. The trek crosses the bridge over Phoksundo Khola twice. As we approach closer to Kharka trekking along the amazingly peaceful region the trail goes high above Phoksundo Khola to Rechi 3011m, where we stop for the lunch. Beyond Rechi we again hike along the river side trail to Sulligad Dovan where we cross the bridge over the confluence of Phoksundo Khola and Yulung Khola and arrive to Chunuwar. We will settle our camps here for the night.
   
• Day 05 - Chunuwar to Phoksundo Lake (3600m)/ 5-6 hrs.  We will join the direct trail to Phoksundo Lake today climbing through forests of big cedars on to Palam (3710m), a winter settlement used by the people of the Ringmo village. The entrance station for the Shey Phoksundo National Park is at the south end of the village. The route then descends on switchbacks through open country to an elevation of 3300 meter, and then starts up another set of dusty switchbacks to a ridge at 3780 meter to the highest waterfall in Nepal (200 meter high). Our route then continues on to Ringmo village, a picturesque settlement of flat-roofed stone houses with lots of mani walls. Just below Ringmo we cross a bridge and follow the trail to Phoksundo Lake, where we camp at the national park camping grounds west.
   
• Day 06 - Phoksundo – Rest day.   Today we explore the area around Ringmo Village and the magnificent Phoksundo Lake. First, we explore around Ringmo Village and head to Tshowa (the lake-shore Bon Monastery).

  The Gompa nestling a ridge top above Phoksundo Lake was built about 900 years ago. Exploring this culturally rich Bon Monastery is fascinating experience.

  Then we drop down to Phoksundo Lake along steep-sided cliffs. The lake is famous for its magnificent turquoise colour and spectacular scenery. Ringmo village, a typical Tibetan village, is scenic view from Phoksundo Lake.

  There are several monasteries (Gompas ) and Bon-po religious sites at the park and we spend our time visiting some of these. We also explore the wonderful natural sites and enjoy our nature tour.

• Day 07 - Phoksundo- Sallaghari/ 5-6hrs trek.  Today’s trek is probably one of the best trekking days of Dolpo to Mustang Trek. It climbs along the narrow trail cut on a cliff standing vertically straight above Phoksundo Lake. This treacherously fascinating trail brings us to another side of Phoksundo Lake.
  This particular part of the trek is like fantasy walk portrayed by a writer in their fiction novels. To get to the Phoksundo Khola camp on other side of the lake, we slide down for ninety minutes along the beautiful forests. The final part of today’s trek slides up to the beautiful campsite at Sallaghari. Enjoy the night in the camps amongst beautiful pine forest.
   
• Day 08 - Sallaghari to Nangdala HC (4717 m)/ 5-6 hrs trek.  Today’s trek is relatively short; we trek for almost three hours to reach Nangdala High Camp 4100m. As the trek begins we ascend up the narrow defile of Tuk Kyaksa River.
  The trail switches to opposite side of the river several times. Soon we arrive to a place where the rapids of the river are calmer. We cross the bridge over the river at that point.
  Thirty minutes of walk after the bridge, we come across the wide valley followed by two hours of walk along the canyon brings us the potential campsite. A walk for a while further reaches to the massive rock slab, which is Nangdala High Camp- our campsite for the night.
   
• Day 09 - Nangdala HC to Shey Gompa/ ( 4280m) Crossing Nangdala pass (5240m)/ 5-6hrs.  Today we trek to the fabled Shey Gompa and the nearby 'Crystal Mountain', the most sacred peak in Dolpo which Dolpo pilgrims circumambulate each summer before the harvest. We are now entering the real Dolpo, and to enter into this mystical land we have to cross the Kangla/Nangdala pass . The trek to the top of Kang La/Nangdala Pass is along the graveled trail uphill for three continuous hours. However, all the efforts put to come up to the top of the pass rewards us with wonderful views.The eye feast views from the Kang La Pass includes Cyrstal Mountain, the mountains in Tibetan territory and the mesmerizing landscapes of Dolpo. We also have views of the peaks Shey Shikkar and Kang Chunne, both just over 6000 meters, before descending steeply down to the valley floor and along the river. A red chorten marks the entrance to Shey.Every Dragon year according to the Tibetan calendar that comes in every 12 years there occurs a grand festival. People from different places and countries come to join this festival. We camp for the night.
   
• Day 10 - Shey Gompa to Namgung Gompa / 6-7 hrs crossing Shey La Pass (5100m).  Today we will explore Shey Gompa. It is said to be about 800 years old monastery, with murals inside and an ancient scroll describing the mythology behind the Crystal Mountain.
  The monastery is locally known as Shelri Sumdho Gompa. Shey Festival, the summer festival observed by the people of Dolpo with huge enthusiasm is hosted at Shey Gompa. Peter Mattheissen wrote quite a lot about his stay in Shey in 'The Snow Leopard', and it was shown in Eric Valli’s movie ‘Caravan' as Thinley's son's gompa.
  After the exploration of Shey Gompa as the trek begins, it follows the trail beside Sephu Khola for almost couple of hours. The landscapes during this part of the trek are typical Dolpo landscapes- barren and enchanting.
  Then we begin to climb up towards the top of Shey La Pass, which is almost two hours of hike. The acme of Shey La Pass west of Shey, rewards us with the magnificent views of Mustang to the East, Tibet to the North and Kanjiroba, Kagmara and Riu Dhukta, or the Crystal Mountain, to the West.
  The final push downhill from the Sela La (5095m), which is almost 2 hours of hike brings us to Namgung. We spend our night at Namgung, a local nomadic herding settlement.
   
• Day 11 - Namgong Gompa to Saldang/ 4-5 hrs camping.  Before setting out towards Saldang, we explore the monastery of Namgung set on the flanking cliff. As the trek from Namgong Gompa begins we follow Namga Khola cross pass more summer herding spots and emerge out of spur for a short hike down to Saldang. Saldang is a beautiful village with lots of dry land surrounded hills. Amchi tradition and Buddhism in Dolpo thrives here at Saldang. We'll get a chance to visit some local houses, drink some salt butter tea or chhyang (Tibetan barley beer) and sample the local fare at Saldang.
   
• Day 12 -Saldang to Day hike to Yangjer Gumba/ 4599m.  Today we will have a day hike after early breakfast to Yanjer the richest monastery of this region. We will have packed lunch and will come back to Saldang for the night stop after the exploration of the monastery.
   
• Day 13 - Saldang to Khoma village.  Today we trek for six hours and reach the village of Komash. Initially, the trail follows the Saldang Lek along the Rapyha Khola to the barren hillside. Exiting out to the elevated ridge (Khom La) of almost 4500m, the trail descends down steeply to Komash Village a village which bears similarity to a Tibetan village. Overnight in tents at Komash.
   
• Day 14 - Khoma village to Shimen.  As we trek from Komash village we may sight some endangered animals like snow leopard or Blue sheep. On the way we pass small villages. The landscapes in the vicinity is full of highland deserts with few shrub like vegetation. On the trail there is one small pass Shimen La (4260m). After almost five hours of comfortable hike we arrive to Shimen. Overnight in the tented camps at Shimen.
   
• Day 15 - Shimen to Tinje.  Today the trail goes by the side of Panjyang Khola. There are some villages and gompas on the way to Tinje. Tinje is a very beautiful valley. There is a natural air strip where once a British aircraft had landed and taken off.
   
• Day 16 - Tinje to Yak Kharka. From the village of Tinje we trek to Yak Kharka, which is an open grazing ground for yaks and sheep. The grassy meadow of Yak Kharka makes for an excellent camping site.
   
• Day 17 -Yak Kharka (4780m) to Chharka / 5 hrs walk crossing Mola Pass (5030m).  From yak kharka we trek towards Chharka. Crossing the pass Mola (5030m) we reach Chharka. We can visit beautiful village and the Bon Monastery in Chharka.
   
• Day 18 - Chharka to Norbulung/ Nulungsumda.  Today the trail goes through the arid high land. There are some up hills on the way. We trek up to Norbulung and have a night camp there.
   
• Day 19 - Nulungsumda/ Norbulung to Ghalden Ghuldum (4247m) Crossing Niwala (5120m) and Jungbenla (5550m) passes.  From Nulungsumda ascending trail takes us to the pass Niwas La. Crossing the pass the trail we again proceed towards another pass Jungbenla then the trail goes down hill up to Ghaldang Ghuldung, where we make the night stop.
   
• Day 20 - Ghalden Ghuldum/ (4247m) to Sangta/ (3777m).  Today the trail goes with several ups and downs and finally reaches to the village Sangta.
   
• Day 21 - Santa to Phalyak/ (3175m). We climb the hill behind Santa and spent most of the day making a high traverse, crossing nine ridges to a final crest at 4280m. We then descend into the Kali Gandaki valley, traversing under high cliffs and descending to the large village of Phalek.
   
• Day 22 - Phalyak to Jomsom/ (2720m).   We climb to a ridge at 3360m and make a final descent on a challenging trail of loose rocks to Jomsom at 2670m. Jomsom is also one of the famous places for the tourist.
   
• Day 23 - Jomsom to Pokhara flight,  and Pokhara to Kathmandu flight.  We fly form Jomsom to Pokhara and to Kathmandu today. Our representative will pick you up at Kathmandu airport and take you to the hotel.