Upper Dolpo Trek

"Mountain climbing is long periods of boredom interspersed with a few seconds of sheer terror." - Unknown

 About Trip 

Upper Dolpo Trek to Shey Gompa is a journey into one of the least visited and most enchanted regions of Nepal. Hidden in the far-western Himalayas, this solitary route leads you into hidden valleys, hundred-year-old monasteries, and high-altitude mountain passes where the ancient traditions of Bonpo and Tibetan Buddhism are still observed today. The area is spiritually rich and culturally unspoiled, and the experience both foreign and extremely human.

Traveling through this far-off land, you become a part of the landscape, and leave an indelible impression on the humble villages, rainbow-colored gompas (monasteries), and people who still live by ancient rhythms. Here, life is earthy and unassuming, untouched by modernization. The landscapes are sweeping, rugged, and spectacular—offering a form of solitude not otherwise found in other parts of Nepal.

Dolpo remains Nepal's most isolated and least developed region, not yet open to Western trekkers until 1989. It had been a closed world before, known only to geography teachers, anthropologists, and writers like David Snellgrove and Peter Matthiessen, whose great book The Snow Leopard brought the magic of this land and its spiritual energy to life.

Upper Dolpo Trek traverses a number of ranges of mountains, lower Dolpo and into as remote areas as Saldang, Dho Tarap, and finally the spiritual Shey Gompa monastery, the spiritual soul of Dolpo. This mythic monastery, located in barren cliffs and white peaks, has long been a pilgrim's destination and remains today an intense destination for trekkers seeking to have a spiritual and tough Himalayan experience.

This is not a trek of the mountains—though they are stunning—it's one of discovering a culture that has not been touched by the world for centuries. The remoteness of the region, the centuries-long spiritual practices, and the purity of the people provide an experience of trekking that's as much about looking inward as outward. Upper Dolpo is unbridled, sweeping, and timeless—a great place to those wanting to trek through history, silence, and holiness.

 Upper DolpoTrek 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 Upper Dolpo trek for matching the cost for budget  or solo travel, full board Upper Dolpo 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 Upper Dolpo 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 Upper Dolpo Trek 

It's been practise that Upper Dolpo 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 Upper Dolpo 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 Upper Dolpo Trek  These periods not only offer the best weather conditions but also provide opportunities to experience Nepal's rich cultural heritage.

 Essential Gear for Upper Dolpo  Trek 

Trekking to Upper Dolpo 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 Upper Dolpo Trek 
The Upper dolpo 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 Upper Dolpo  — it's truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

 SHORT ITINERARY 

• Day 01: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (152m/499ft), Flying Distance: 366km, Duration- 1 hour.

• Day 02: Fly from Nepalgunj to Dunai (2,140m/7,021ft), and hike to Sulighat (2,282m/7,487ft), Walking Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

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

• Day 04: Trek from Renje to Ringmo village/Phoksundo Lake (3,733m/12,247ft), Walking Duration: 5 to 6 hours.

• Day 05: Rest day in Phoskundo Lake and explore around Ringmo Village. 

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

• Day 07: Trek from Forest Camp to Nanda la phedi/lar Tsa (3,756m/12,323ft), Walking Duration: 6 to 7 hours.

• Day 08: Trek from Nganda La phedi(Lar Tsa) to Shey Gompa (4,390m/14,403ft) via Kang-La pass (5,360m/17,585ft), Walking Duration: 5 to 6 hours.

• Day 09: Rest day at Shey Gompa the crystal monastery.

• Day 10: Shey Gompa to Namgung village (4,430m/15,534ft) via Saldang La (5,010m/16,437ft), Walking Duration: 6 to 7 hours.

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

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

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

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

• Day 15: Trek from Tinjegaon to Silung Khola (4,868m/15,971ft), Walking Duration: 4 to 5 hours.

• Day 16: Trek from Silung Khola to Dho Tarap(3,944m/12,940ft), Walking Duration: 5 to 6 hours.

• Day 17: Rest day in Dho Tarap (3,944m/12,940ft).

• Day 18: Trek from Dho Tarap to Sisaul Camp (3,820m/12,533ft), Walking Duration: 6 to 7 hours.

• Day 19: Trek from Sisaul to Cheurgar (3,441m/11,289ft), Walking Duration: 6 hours.

• Day 20: Trek from Cheurgar to Tarakot (2,537m/8,323ft), Walking Duration: 5 to 6 hours.

• Day 21: Trek from Tarakot to Jhuphal (2,475m/8,120ft), Walking Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

• Day 22: Fly from Jhuphal to Nepalgunj (152m/499ft), Flying Duration: 50 minutes.

• Day 23: Fly from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,265ft), Flying Duration: 1 hour.

 DETAIL ITINERARY 

• Day 01: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj & Transfer to Hotel. After breakfast at the hotel in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to the airport (in a private vehicle), to board a flight to Nepalgunj. After about an hour of scenic flight the plane will land at the Ranjha Airport located in Nepalgunj. From the airport, you will be transferred to the hotel booked for you in Nepalgunj. If time permits, we can spend the remaining day visiting the attractions of Nepalgunj: mini zoo, Muslim bazaar and the Tharu villages. In the evening, we will get back to the hotel and make preparations for the next day’s flight to Jhupal. Overnight in a hotel in Nepalgunj.
• Day 02: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2320m/7601ft) and trek to Sulighat (2070m/6790ft) (2-3hrs)After breakfast at the hotel in Nepalguj, we will be transferred to the airport in Nepalgunj, to board an early morning flight to Juphal. The plane flying over the high mountains will land at the airport in Juphal, where we meet the rest of the crew members (especially porters), awaiting our arrival. The luggage will be prepared for the porters, while you enjoy your lunch. Once the arrangement is finalized, we will walk down, toward the bank of the Thuli Bheri River, past a beautiful village and terraced fields. As we reach the river, following the bank of the river we further walk down towards the bridge across the Thuli Bheri River. Crossing the bridge, we now head up towards our destination, Sulighat. Sulighat is about 2-3 hour walk from the airport in Juphal. Overnight in a camp in Sulighat.
   
• Day 03: Trek from Sulighat to Renje (3010m/9873ft) (5-6hour).After breakfast, the walk continues towards Renje. Crossing the bridge, and now on the west bank of the river, we first head towards Jyalhasa- a winter settlement of Rimgmo village, past abandoned settlement of Raktang, herders’ hut and horse pastures  over the ridge. Before heading ahead, we again cross the bridge and now following the up and down trail, passing through grasses and fern along the east bank of the river we reach the trail junction to Phoksundo Lake. Following the Phoksundo Lake trail, we first continue up on a ridge and then down on a rocky path to Chepka.  From here, staying close to the river, we climb a small ridge, cross to the west side  and continue upstream climbing up and down to the Renje campsite. Overnight in a camp in Renje .
   
• Day 04: Trek from Renje to Ringmo village (3640m/11940ft) and the Phoksundo Lake (3620m/11874ft) 5-6 hrs. After breakfast, the walk continues first up the ridge and then down to the wooden bridge. From the bridge about an hour of up and down walk, along the valley floor will take us to the confluence of the Pungma River and the Phoksundo River. Crossing the river, and now on the west bank of the Phuksundo River, the trail continues through the forest, traverses a grassy slope high above the river and switches back steeply on a sandy trail through open country. From this place, the trail gets much steeper (around 400 meter ridge). Shortly after we cross the ridge, we will get the first view of the Phoksundo Lake. We will then descend through the forest of Birch and Chir pine to the upper ridges that allows us to enjoy the rushing water of Phoksundo River. Finally a gentle climb will take us to the charming village of Ringmo. Following the trail along the edge of the village, we walk all the way up to the Phoksundo Lake. Overnight in a camp in Phoksundo Lake.
   
• Day 05: Rest day in Phoskundo Lake and explore around Ringmo Village. This day can also be taken as an acclimatization day or the rest day after 3 days of walk without proper rest. Therefore, today, instead of heading further after breakfast, we set out to explore the very beautiful Phoksundo Lake- alpine fresh water oligotrophic and the deepest (145m) lake in Nepal. After exploring the lake area, we also explore the Ringmo village, located south of the lake and white Thasung Chholing Gompa. If time and energy permits, we also walk all the way up to see the source of the lake. Overnight in a camp in Phoksundo Lake.
   
• Day 06: Phoksundo Lake to Phoksundo Khola (3,630m /1190ft) (4-5 hrs). After breakfast, the hike continues skirting the shore of the lake as it curves on a rocky ridge along the western bank of the lake. The trail is uneven and is suspended on a gangplank of wood that is maintained by pegs driven into the crevasse in the rocks -the first example of the remoteness of the area. As we reach the westernmost edge of the lake, the path leads through a lush meadow that later opens up into the flood plain of the Phoksundo River. From here onwards, we walk through the valley, cross the river and avoiding the rare marshy land we stop today’s hike at the bank of the Phoksundo River. Overnight in a camp near Phoksundo River.
   
• Day 07: Phoksundo Khola to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4,120/13,514ft) (6-7 hrs). After breakfast, leaving the camp site, we head towards the confluence of the Phoksundo River and Ghyampo Kapuwa River through a glacial valley. Crossing the wooden bridge, we continue on a hardly distinctive path, towards the north-east of the valley on the Shey Gumba trekking trail. The trail is difficult, which makes us climb over the rocks and boulders and ford a stream that rushes down the steep valley. After a long climb, we reach a sheep meadow, where the trail swerves up a steep gorge. From here, a steep and hard climb to the top will take us to another valley that presents us the view of the Kang La pass. The night will be spent in a tented camp in Phoksundo Bhanjyang.
   
• Day 08: Phoksundo Bhanjyang to Shey Gompa (4390m/14400ft) via Kang-La pass (5160m/16325ft) (5-6hrs). Today we start early. After breakfast, the walk continues towards the Kang-La pass. The steep trail littered with slate scree makes the walk quite strenuous. The top of the pass presents the amazing view of the large valley cut across into two halves by a gushing river. As we descend from the pass, the path leads us on a long winding trek along the banks of the river, which also requires us to crossing it several times. We walk past the meadow and the old nomadic hut of the herders. Soon we will see a red chorten that marks our arrival at the Shey Gompa. Here we cross the old wooden log bridge and walk up to the Shey Gompa. The night will be spent in a tented camp in Shey Gompa.
   
• Day 09: Rest day at Shey Gompa the crystal monastery. Today, both for the purpose of exploration and acclimatization we visit a monastery, Shey Gompa and the Crystal Mountain, built during the 11th century. The monastery belongs to the Chaiba community, who are the followers of saint Padmasambhava and is the first Kagyaupa monastery. Shey Gompa is located above the confluence of Kangjunala and Yeju Nala River. After exploring the monastery we also visit the crystal mountain and then get back to the camp for overnight stay.
   
• Day 10: Shey Gompa to Namgung village (4430m/14530ft) via Saldang La (5010m/16432ft) (6-7hrs).The Namgung Village is the destination set for the day. After breakfast, we continue to walk towards the destination. Initially the trail is pleasant as it runs through the juniper and descends into a gray, stony canyon. Then a zigzag path over bare rocks and coarse eroded soil will lead us to the top of Saldang La. The long, tiring trail steeply descends north until we see the first sight pastures of grazing yaks and sheep and nomadic tents. This is a sign that we are approaching towards the Namgung village. Soon we will see a red stone structure build against the backdrop of a cliff on the north wall of a gorge. The structure is Namgung Monastery of the Karma-pa sect, which has now collapsed. We will explore the monastery, village and the nearby area. The night will be spent in the tented camp in Namgung village.
   
• Day 11: Namgung village to Saldang (3620m/11,874ft) (4-5hrs). Leaving the beautiful village of Namgung, we will head towards today’s destination, after breakfast. Initially, we ascend a scree slope and then continue along the dusty barren mountains. After some hours of hard climb, we will be greeted by the picturesque view of Saldang (the largest village of the Inner Dolpo) below on a plateau high above the Nam Khongmala. We walk all the way down to Saldang. If time permits, we also explore the village and the lifestyle of people living in the village.  The night will be spent in a camp in Saldang village.
   
• Day 12: Saldang to Yangjze Gompa (4960m/16267ft) (4-5 hrs). After breakfast at Saldang, the trail further heads north towards the destination, Yangze Gompa. A fairly gradual path with few ups and downs along the Nagon River will also make us walk past the small settlement like Tiling, Kigaon and Lurigaon. We will the cross the bridge over the Panjyang River and a short walk from here will lead us to a rarely explored area of this region, the Yangjze Gompa – a very old Bon-Po Monastery. We will spend the remaining day exploring the monastery and the village. Overnight in a camp in Yangjer Gompa.
   
• Day 13: Yangze Gompa to Sibu (4560m/14957ft) (6-7 hrs). Sibu is the destination of the day. There are two trail options to Sibu. However, in order to save time, we retrace the path leading towards Saldang village. As we reach Saldang, following the river bed we walk past the terraced fields, stupas, chortens, mani stones, Chaiba monastery, and Namdo village located left of the Nam Khong River. From here, we further continue for about two hours to reach the destination, Sibu. The night will be spent in a tented camp in Sibu.
   
• Day 14: Sibu to Jeng La Phedi (4900m/16072ft) (5-6 hrs). Sibu is the destination of the day. There are two trail options to Sibu. However, in order to save time, we retrace the path leading towards Saldang village. As we reach Saldang, following the river bed we walk past the terraced fields, stupas, chortens, mani stones, Chaiba monastery, and Namdo village located left of the Nam Khong River. From here, we further continue for about two hours to reach the destination, Sibu. The night will be spent in a tented camp in Sibu.
   
• Day 15: Jeng La Phedi to Do Tarap (4080m/13382ft) via Jeng La pass (5090m/16695ft) (6-7 hrs). After breakfast at the Phedi, around two hours of uphill climb will take us to the top of the Jeng La pass that greets us with a beautiful view of snow ranges and the north face of Dhaulagiri massif. After spending some time here on the pass, we descend through rough path towards the Tarap valley. Around the afternoon, we come to the green valley, which further leads us on a pleasant track down towards Tarap Chu. On the way, we also visit Tokyu monastery belonging to Chaiba sect. The trail further leads east along the downhill couse of Tarap Chu in a plain valley with patches of lush verdant grass on both sides of the river. After a short trek in the valley we reach Do Tarap. The night will be spent in a tented camp in Do Tarap.
   
• Day 16: Exploration and acclimatization day in Do Tarap. After sever days of tiring walk, this day is set aside for exploration and acclimatization. Therefore, after breakfast, we set out for a leisurely half say excursion up to the valley to Dero Gompa and Shipchok Gompa –a school of Bonpo. We also visit Ribo Bhumpa Gompa above the village, rebuilt in the year 1955 and the village of Do Tarap. The night will be spent in a tented camp in Do Tarap.
   
• Day 17: Do Tarap to Tarap Khola (Karmakharka) (3800m/12464ft) (6-7 hrs). After breakfast, the trail descends towards the wide valley and then into the gorge. We then walk along the juniper bushes and wild roses, just above the tree line. Around the afternoon, we reach the confluence of the Tarap Chu and the Lang River. We walk further towards the meadow in Karmakharka, where we set up our camp for overnight stay. If time permits, we can also go and visit nearby caves. The night will be spent in a tented camp.
   
• Day 18: Tarap Khola to Khanigaon (3150m/10332ft) (5-6hrs). After breakfast, we continue on a trail down the gorge of Tarap River. We walk past many possible camp sites by the river, narrow deep gorges, stone slabs fitted on logs in between the walls acting as bridge. We will continue until we reach the camping spot beside the Tarap River at Khanigaon. The night will be spent in a tented camp in Khanigaon.
   
• Day 19: Khani Gaun to Dunai (2030m/6658ft) via Tarakot (2537m/8321ft) (5-6 hrs). After breakfast, we set out on the trail that passes through the forest and then descends into another gorge. We continue following the river downstream to reach Tarakot, where we can enjoy colorful terraced fields. Soon we will cross the bridge at Lawan and now seven meters above the river we walk past the remote village in the shades of pine trees and deep gorges. Crossing the bridge we gradually descend and head east and following the bank of the Thuli Bheri River, we finally reach Dunai. Overnight in a basic lodge in Dunai.
   
• Day 20: Dunai to Jhuphal (2320m/7610ft) (2-3 hrs). After breakfast, we continue on a flat trail along the Thuli Bheri River. The trail then passes through terraced fields, and beautiful villages all the way up to Jhupal. About 2-3 hours walk will take us to Jhuphal. It is the last day of the trek in this region. The night will be spent at a lodge in Jhuphal.
   
• Day 21: Fly from Jhupal to Nepalgunj to Kathmandu.After breakfast at the lodge, we first fly back to Nepalgunj and then from Nepalgunj, we fly back to Kathmandu. As you reach the Kathmandu airport, a company representative will pick you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu in a private vehicle. In the evening, we meet for a farewell dinner and discuss the trek. The night will be spent in a hotel in Kathmandu.                                                                                                                                                                                          “End of our Services”.