Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo Trek

Experience the splendor rugged beauty of Upper Dolpo, inhabited by the Buddhist and Bon cults that resemble the ones of Roof of the world- Tibet!

Lying between the Tibetan plateau and the Dhaulagiri ranges, Upper Dolpo Trek is a restricted trek that offers startling landscapes and tranquil beauty. Captivating SheyPhoksundo Lake, isolated villages of Ringmo, and the centuries-old monasteries make it a standout amongst the most awesome treks in the Himalaya. Only a few globetrotters have reached to the heart of Dolpo, a region adorably portrayed in Eric Valli's excellent film - 'Himalaya, Caravan'. Secluded by the strenuous terrain, the ethnic group living in this region have preserved their customs and tradition; remaining almost unblemished by the trappings of modern society. The distinctive hospitality not only have enraptured many trekkers but it has been fondest and a lifetime experience for many.

Upper Dolpo Trek is for the real adventures wishing for an off the beaten path experience. Firstly you have to get to Nepalgunj, on the plane, and then to Juphal located in Dolpo district. It isn’t feasible to fly straightly to Juphal from Kathmandu, although high-priced charter flights can be arranged from Pokhara. Basically, the airport at Juphal is no more than a tiny mountain airstrip, where bad weather can often delay flights. The trek then follows remote and rugged protected area, with admiring the beautiful rain shadow landscape of the Himalayas. You have to cross three high passes, The Shey La (5010 m), Kang La/ Ngadra La (5350 m), and Jeng La (5110 m). You can hear a prayer flag fluttering at the top of the pass. Eventually, these crossings require lengthy climbs and long descents.

The spiritual heart of this trek is visiting 'Crystal Mountain' and the several 11th-century unique monasteries (gompas) like SheyGompa; which is an important pilgrimage site for Tibetans. Crystal Mountain is visited by hundreds of traveler each year. They make a circuit of the Crystal Mountain, Upper Dolpo own version of Mount Kailash. The people that reside here, only a few hundred and are the world’s highest dwellers. Being the region of Nepal people of this region mostly speak Tibetan languages and can rarely understand the Nepali language. On the way, you’ll experience small but unique authentic villages. The region preserves one of the last remains of traditional Tibetan culture where the pre-Buddhist Bon-Po religion is still in practice.

Tourism infrastructure in Upper Dolpo is not what it is in much of Nepal it is required to camp. There are (basic) guest houses in Juphal, Dunai, Kageni, Chhepka, close to Sanduwa, Ringmo, Shey, Saldang, Dho, and Lingdo. At the other places, you have to camp. You will experience native locals living based on farming and animal husbandry. It seems like time has stood still here for centuries as inhabitants of Tibetan stock continue to pursue and trade; the way they have done for hundreds of years. Their living is not easy yet what they lack in material goods, they have in spiritual wealth.

The relatively difficult trekking passes and high trekking permit fee, limit the number of adventurers that visit Upper Dolpo, making this trek a very exceptional, and exclusive experience. The trip can be shortened or extended depending on how many hours of walking you fit into your days. Besides, you stay above 4000 meters for a long time, on very cold nights. But the turquoise blue Shey- Phoksundo Lake, unforgettable landscapes, steep bold rocks, yak caravan, the views from the passes and the contacts with a very special untouched culture make it all worth it.  

Upper Dolpo Trek Permit and Price

If you are specifically looking for a less-touristy experience, with close interaction with the locals then Upper Dolpo Trek might be a right choice for you. However, the permit is issued only to groups. Individual trekkers will not be issued Upper Dolpo trekking permit. The trekking permit can be obtained from the department of immigration, Kalikasthan, Kathmandu, Nepal. Areas of Upper Dolpa for the first 10 days US$ 500 per person and after 10 days US$ 50 per day person or equivalent foreign currency. Areas of Lower Dolpo Per week per person US$ 10 or equivalent convertible foreign currency.

Best Season (Upper Dolpo Trek)

The route lingers above 4000 m for long periods of time which results in very cold nights. However, the best time to visit Dolpo is the spring (April to May) and the fall (October to November), including normal monsoon periods as it lies in the rain shadow. Weather is mostly clear during spring and the temperature is moderate with minimal chance of snow at high altitudes. So, you get to see beautiful views without any obstruction. Late/early snow can affect this trek in April and November, making some passes impossible to cross. During monsoon, keep in mind that travel to and from the trailhead can be interrupted by bad weather in the lowlands. Thus, give yourself an extra day or two on both ends of your trip to accommodate flight cancellations and road blockage. It's better to check about the trek with a local tour operator if lodges and passes are open as this will depend on weather conditions.