Upper Dolpo Trek Itinerary: A Journey to Nepal’s Hidden Gem

Nestled in the remote western region of Nepal, Upper Dolpo is one of the most secluded and least explored trekking destinations in the Himalayas. This rugged and mystical land, described in Peter Matthiessen’s book The Snow Leopard, offers breathtaking landscapes, ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, and an unparalleled sense of wilderness.

Upper Dolpo remains isolated due to its geographical remoteness, requiring special permits for entry. The trek takes you through Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to the stunning Phoksundo Lake, high-altitude passes, and medieval villages deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and Bon traditions.

This Upper Dolpo Trek itinerary will take around 25–27 days, starting from Nepalgunj and reaching Shey Gompa, the spiritual heart of Dolpo.

Upper Dolpo Trek Itinerary (26 Days)

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft)

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, you will be transferred to your hotel. You can explore the bustling streets of Thamel, visit UNESCO heritage sites, or prepare for the trek.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Activities: Trek briefing, gear check, sightseeing (optional).

Day 2: Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m/492ft, 1 hour)

A short flight takes you to Nepalgunj, a bustling town in western Nepal near the Indian border. The temperature is warmer here due to its low altitude.

Overnight: Hotel in Nepalgunj.

Activities: Visit the local market, prepare for the next day’s mountain flight.

Day 3: Flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,475m/8,120ft) & Trek to Dunai (2,140m/7,021ft, 3–4 hours)

Early morning, take a scenic 35-minute flight to Juphal, the starting point of the trek. After landing, trek through terraced fields and forests alongside the Thuli Bheri River to reach Dunai, the administrative center of Dolpa District.

Overnight: Teahouse in Dunai.

Activities: Acclimatization, exploring Dunai village.

Day 4: Trek from Dunai to Chhepka (2,670m/8,758ft, 6–7 hours)

Walk along the banks of the Suligad River, passing terraced farmlands, pine forests, and small settlements. The trail gradually ascends to Chhepka, a small village surrounded by lush vegetation.

Overnight: Teahouse in Chhepka.

Activities: Enjoy the forested landscape, encounter local people.

Day 5: Trek from Chhepka to Jharana Hotel (3,170m/10,400ft, 6–7 hours)

The trail leads through dense forests and rocky terrain, eventually reaching Jharana Hotel, a resting point before reaching Phoksundo Lake.

Overnight: Teahouse in Jharana Hotel.

Activities: Witness beautiful waterfalls and stunning landscapes.

Day 6: Trek to Phoksundo Lake (3,611m/11,849ft, 5–6 hours)

Today’s trek is one of the most exciting as you reach Shey Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s deepest and most mesmerizing turquoise-colored lake.

Overnight: Teahouse near Phoksundo Lake.

Activities: Explore the lake, visit Ringo Monastery.

Day 7: Acclimatization and Exploration at Phoksundo Lake

A rest day to acclimatize and explore the surroundings. Visit Tshowa Gompa, an ancient monastery perched on a cliff near the lake.

Overnight: Teahouse in Phoksundo.

Activities: Hike around the lake, photography, cultural interaction.

Day 8: Trek to Sallaghari (3,750m/12,303ft, 5–6 hours)

Crossing rocky trails along the lake, enter the Upper Dolpo restricted area. The trail becomes more rugged as you pass through dense pine forests and reach Sallaghari, a beautiful campsite.

Overnight: Camping at Sallaghari.

Activities: Experience true wilderness, enjoy the serenity.

Day 9: Trek to Nangdala High Camp (4,700m/15,419ft, 6–7 hours)

The trek gradually ascends, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Reach Nangdala High Camp, situated near Nangdala La Pass.

Overnight: Camping at Nangdala High Camp.

Activities: Prepare for crossing the high pass.

Day 10: Cross Nangdala Pass (5,350m/17,552ft) & Trek to Shey Gompa (4,126m/13,537ft, 7–8 hours)

Today is one of the most challenging days as you cross the high Nangdala Pass, rewarded with panoramic views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Kanjiroba (6,883m). Descend to reach Shey Gompa, the spiritual heart of Dolpo.

Overnight: Camping at Shey Gompa.

Activities: Visit the 800-year-old Shey Monastery.

Day 11: Acclimatization & Exploration at Shey Gompa

Take a rest day to explore Shey Gompa, often called the "Crystal Monastery."

Overnight: Camping at Shey Gompa.

Activities: Learn about Tibetan Buddhism, interact with monks.

Day 12–20: Trek through Upper Dolpo (via Namgung, Saldang, Chagaon, Dho Tarap, Tarap Valley)

This section of the trek takes you through some of the most isolated villages, high passes, and barren landscapes of Upper Dolpo.

Day 12: Shey Gompa to Namgung (4,436m/14,554ft)

Day 13: Namgung to Saldang (3,903m/12,805ft)

Day 14: Saldang to Chagaon (3,850m/12,631ft)

Day 15: Chagaon to Dho Tarap (4,080m/13,385ft)

Day 16: Dho Tarap to Tarap Khola (3,800m/12,467ft)

Day 17: Tarap Khola to Kangmara La Base Camp (4,800m/15,748ft)

Day 18: Cross Kangmara La Pass (5,150m/16,896ft) & trek to Phedi

Day 19: Phedi to Khani Gaon (3,150m/10,334ft)

Day 20: Khani Gaon to Tarakot (2,537m/8,323ft)

Overnight: Camping or teahouses along the route.

Day 21: Trek to Dunai (2,140m/7,021ft, 6–7 hours)

Follow the Barbung Khola River and reach Dunai.

Overnight: Teahouse in Dunai.

Day 22: Trek to Juphal (2,475m/8,120ft, 3–4 hours)

The last day of trekking takes you back to Juphal.

Overnight: Teahouse in Juphal.

Day 23: Fly to Nepalgunj and then Kathmandu

Take an early morning flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, then a connecting flight to Kathmandu.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 24: Leisure Day in Kathmandu

A free day to explore Kathmandu or relax.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 25: Departure

Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

Conclusion

The Upper Dolpo Trek is a challenging yet rewarding adventure that immerses you in Nepal’s hidden Himalayan culture, Tibetan Buddhism, and breathtaking scenery. If you seek a remote, off-the-beaten-path experience, this trek is perfect for you!