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Duration
28 days
Max Altitude
5.3 km
Difficulty
Expert
Best months to visit
The Upper Dolpo Trek is one of Nepal's most remote and extraordinary trekking adventures, situated in the Dolpa district of northwestern Nepal, bordering Tibet (China) to the north. Spanning 28 days, this strenuous expedition takes trekkers through some of the most untouched and culturally rich landscapes on Earth, earning its reputation as a transformative journey into a hidden Himalayan world. The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then onward to Jumla, before setting off on foot through cedar and pine forests framed by the towering Dhaulagiri Range. As trekkers gain altitude, the terrain shifts dramatically from lush valleys to barren, wind-swept plateaus reminiscent of the Tibetan plateau. The route traverses several high mountain passes, including the formidable Kagmara La (5,115m), Bagala Pass (5,190m), Numa La (5,318m), and Sangda La (5,460m), each offering breathtaking panoramic vistas. A jewel of the journey is Shey Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal's deepest and most strikingly beautiful lakes, its turquoise-blue waters nestled among rugged peaks within the Shey Phoksundo National Park — the largest national park in Nepal, covering 3,555 square kilometers of Mugu and Dolpo districts. Cultural highlights abound throughout the trek, as the Upper Dolpo region is considered the last enclave of pure Tibetan culture in Nepal. Trekkers visit ancient Bonpo (shamanistic pre-Buddhist) and Buddhist monasteries, including Shey Gompa and Thasung Monastery, gaining rare insights into centuries-old traditions and spiritual practices. The hardy Dolpo people, living in some of the world's highest inhabited villages, offer warm encounters and a glimpse into a way of life largely unchanged for generations. The trek concludes in Jomsom, with onward flights to Pokhara and Kathmandu. All accommodation along the route is camping-style, ensuring an authentic wilderness experience. This is a challenging, high-altitude expedition requiring excellent physical fitness and proper acclimatization, best suited to experienced trekkers seeking an unparalleled Himalayan adventure.
What's included
✓ All ground transportation by private tourist vehicles
✓ Flight fare from Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Juphal – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu including airport departure taxes
✓ Full board meals
Not included
✕ Beverages and snacks
✕ Charging electronic devices
✕ Hot showers
✕ Wi-Fi
✕ Travel insurance
✕ Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Entry Permit
✕ Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit
✕ Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Entry Permit
✕ Personal trekking gear and equipment
✕ Tips and gratuities
✕ International airfare
✕ Personal expenses and souvenirs
🌿 Cultural Note
The Upper Dolpo region is considered the last enclave of pure Tibetan culture in Nepal. Trekkers will encounter Bonpo (shamanistic pre-Buddhist) monasteries alongside Buddhist gompa. The local Dolpo people follow ancient traditions largely unchanged for centuries. Visitors should dress modestly, ask permission before photographing locals or religious sites, walk clockwise around mani walls and stupas, and respect monastery customs. This is a deeply sacred and remote region — cultural sensitivity and minimal environmental impact are strongly encouraged.
Cancellation Policy — Moderate
Cancellation time is measured from your trip start date.
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