Upper Dolpo Trek
A mystical land where centuries-old Buddhist and Bonpo traditions are still alive
Off the Beaten Path, unexplored trails and discoveries attract any trekker to the Upper Dolpo Trek in Nepal! Located behind the Dhaulagiri Range and connected to the Tibetan Plateau. The Upper Dolpo trek is filled with adventure, rocky highlands, and spectacular views of the Nepali and Tibetan Himalayan ranges. Lakes, mountains, traditional villages, and ancient monasteries fill this trek with experience. From the Phoksudo Lake to the Shey Gompa, the trail is extraordinary. Views of Nepal’s mid-western plateaus and valleys make the Upper Dolpo Trek, also known as Nepal’s mystical alternative trekking route!
The region of the Upper Dolpo Trekking is highly filled with Tibetan influences. Many of the villages still practice the ancient old Bon traditions. These villages are full of old traditions and culture. Our Peregrine guide will guide you in understanding the locality of the region.
Many honey hunters are famous for their pure honey venture into the Dolpo region. We might encounter these daredevils who live by gathering “Himalayan gold” from the highlands. In another part of the Upper Dolpa Trek, we head to Phoksudo Lake. Also known as the deepest lake in Nepal. Following the Phoksudo River, which fills its surroundings with life, gives you an excellent natural trail through valleys, streams, and highlands.
A scenic flight toward Nepalgunj and Juphal starts in Kathmandu, like any other Nepal adventure. From here, the Upper Dolpo Trek officially begins. The trails are off the path as we head for the first three days toward Phoksundo Lake. After enjoying the scenery of Phoksudo, we head further towards the main settlements in the area in the Do Tarap Valley.
Along the way, we passed and stayed in different cultural villages. Here we can see the people in their daily lives, following old traditions. The Upper Dolpo Trek has magnificent valleys, culture, and mountain views. Also, heading through green forests and jungles near Tarakot lets you encounter various wildlife in their unique habitats.
Staying in old villages, campsites, and guesthouses makes the Upper Dolpo Trekking an adventure. The Peregrine Treks & Expedition team is always available for any route or region information. To get the whole experience, we ensure that the Upper Dolpo Trek in Nepal will give you everlasting memories!
Meals: Not Included
Meals: Breakfast
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: from our flight we can see fantastic mountain views of the Annapurna and the Dhaulagiri! Did you know that Dunai town is the administrative headquarter of the whole Dolpo region!Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: today we get to see the mighty Kagmara peak!Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: while climbing up above the river, we can cool down in the various fresh streams. While heading down the stone staircase, we should take our time as it can be a bit wobbly!Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: From the ridge of Palam village we get to see amazing views of one of the largest waterfalls in Nepal and the Phoksundo Lake, make sure to have your cameras ready after reaching Palam village! Ringmo has beautiful Chortens and Mani walls, but we get to explore them the next day.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: Ringmo villages have their traditions and culture, the people here where traditional attires. Homespun clothing, sometimes dyed maroon and Tibetan style footwear called samba or dacha. Religious jewellery is prevalent and made of coral, amber, and turquoise.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: Peter Matthiessen christened this campsite as the “Snowfields Camp.” It’s essential to have a good night's sleep as we face the Kang-La Pass of 5,360m tomorrow.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: Did you know that the Shey Gompa was built in 1655! A giant golden copper statue of a seated Shakyamuni Buddha marks the entrance of this ancient monastery.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: Did you know that Gaun is Nepali for Village? Namduna Gaun has a red stone monastery built against the cliff, an exciting site to explore.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: Saldang village is the largest village in the inner Dolpo area, with a village area of 2 km and about six hundred villagers residing, Saldang is worth exploring and visiting the marketplace.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: The Yangtze Gompa houses an ancient Bon-Po Buddhist Monastery, worth a visit!Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: From Saldang to Namdo, we get to see ancient Chortens, spiritual Mani Stones, and an old Chaiba Monastery. At the edge of Namdo, we also can visit the Namdo Village Monastery shortly.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: From the top of the Pass we get to see incredible panoramas of the entire Dhaulagiri massif.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: On this day it’s common to see herds of blue sheep! Did you know that the Lang Khola and the Tarap Chu join into the big Tarap River further up east?Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: The gorge trek today is so spectacular, as it narrows down we can jump across it, sometimes even the path disappears, and we need to improvise a way using slate rocks and broken tree logs!Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: After reaching Tarakot we can visit the Sandul Gompa about 8 km east of the village.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Note: We take an early flight in the morning so better to take an early sleep. Please consult with your trek leader for the exact flight times.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Meals: Breakfast
Peregrine Treks is committed to offering the most suitable accommodations for our clients. In urban centers such as Kathmandu and Nepalgunj, our team has arranged three-star hotels that provide comfortable, twin-sharing rooms of optimal quality and cost-effective. We strive to ensure that our customers get the most out of their money, considering cleanliness, safety, and customer satisfaction. However, we offer flexible options that range from the budget-conscious to more luxurious alternatives with an added fee.
You will find only basic lodges and teahouses when you enter remote villages and terrain during your trek. Nevertheless, we ensure that the accommodation is safe and comfortable. The teahouse will also be an option for you to stay in.
As for meals, when staying in a city, breakfast is typically included with the accommodation cost. Any other meals are at your own cost. Various cuisines are available so that you can choose from various options.
As your trek progresses to remote regions, there isn’t as much of choice for meals, but you can rest assured that the food will be both well-prepared and safe to eat. During your trek, you’re provided with three complimentary meals daily (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). We also offer Welcome and Farewell Dinners to make your tour more enjoyable.
We have daily departures for private trips, so we recommend booking it according to your schedule. We do not need a minimum group size for the private trip and won’t charge additional charges for a solo traveler.
Please let us know if you need additional services like pre/post accommodation, domestic flight, Everest Mountain Flight, adventurous sports, sightseeing, etc. Please fill out this customized form for your convenience.
Customize this trip with help from our local travel specialist that matches your interests.
We accept major currencies such as the US Dollar, the Great Britain Pound, the Euro, the Australian Dollar, the Singapore Dollar, the Indian Rupee, the Swiss Franc, the Canadian Dollar, the Japanese Yen, the Chinese Yuan, the Saudi Arabian Riyal, the Qatari Riyal, the Thai Baht, the UAE Dirham, the Malaysian Ringgit, the South Korean Won, the Swedish Kroner, the Danish Kroner, the Hong Kong Dollar, the Kuwaiti Dinar, and the Bahrain Dinar.
Type C, D, and M power plugs and sockets are used. The standard voltage and frequency are 230 V and 50Hz, respectively.
Vaccinations You must be completely vaccinated against COVID-19 at least 14 days before traveling to Nepal. Vaccination documentation is required.
On Arrival Visas are available at Nepal's entrance points for travelers. Travelers from Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, and Syria, on the other hand, are required to obtain a visa through their nearest Nepalese diplomatic post (embassy/consulate).
To confirm the trek/tour package, we want a deposit of at least 20% of the total tour/trek fee. The remaining balance must be paid when you arrive in Nepal. We take Visa, Maestro, MasterCard, American Express, and other major credit cards. The total cost of a Bhutan and Tibet tour must be paid in full at the time of booking.
We strongly advise you to purchase a SIM card for reliable internet access throughout Nepal. Nepal Telecom (owned by the government) and NCELL (owned by the private sector) are the two main SIM card providers in Nepal. It is preferable to get a SIM card at an airport, where staff will assist with activation and data plan purchases. If you have a SIM card, it will be easier for you to contact us and locate our airport agent.
You can charge your electrical devices at hotels and lodges because there are no power outages. In the Himalayan region, however, hotel owners may levy a nominal fee.
Upper Dolpo is undoubtedly among the world’s most challenging yet thrilling treks. On the Upper Dolpo Trekking journey, we will encounter several passes at an altitude of 5000 meters, such as Kang La Pass and Sangda La Pass. It is a high-altitude trek that combines uphill and downhill hiking, usually between 9 to 14 kilometers per day and taking roughly 6 to 8 hours. Therefore, for those looking to experience the adventure of Upper Dolpo, it is recommended to have prior experience trekking at 5000 meters and be in excellent physical condition. To ensure maximum preparation, beginners should perform pre-trek training activities such as walking for 5 to 6 hours daily. Or first, gain hiking experience at elevations between 4400 and 5000 meters.
The trek to Upper Dolpo is accessible all year round; however, the most popular seasons for trekking are spring (March, April, and May) and autumn (September to early December). These seasons provide excellent conditions to experience the region’s beauty, with clear skies, open passes, and pleasant temperatures. The visibility is also improved during these times, allowing trekkers to enjoy the magnificent views fully. The success rate on the trek is high, as trekkers can complete the journey quickly.
Trekking in the Upper Dolpo district is also possible in the summer and monsoon seasons. In contrast to other trekking areas in Nepal, the Upper Dolpo district is situated in the rain shadow of the Himalayas. This means there is very little rain, even during the rainy season from June to August. Additionally, temperatures are relatively low in the summer due to their high altitude.
In winter, the months from late December to February can present a unique challenge for trekkers, as passes above 5000 m may be covered in snow, and temperatures can drop below freezing. However, this trek can still be undertaken during this period for the intrepid adventurous.
Undertaking the Upper Dolpo Trek is a challenge not to be taken lightly. To ensure a rewarding experience, prospective hikers must rigorously prepare their bodies and minds. Training should focus on strengthening cardiovascular health, increasing trekking stamina, building strength, and familiarizing oneself with mountain altitude. You should also understand the terrain, specifically the ascents, and descents, and devise a personalized training plan that gradually increases in intensity. Determining to overcome your fears and complete the trek will be crucial to success.
Every day of the Upper Dolpo trek is a new adventure! With the sun just beginning to peek through the early morning mist, you will enjoy a delicious breakfast while taking in the beautiful landscape surrounding you. Depending on your plan, you’ll prepare your body and mind for 6 to 8 hours of trekking. With 3 to 4 hours of hiking before a midday refuel and another 3-4 hours following lunch. You will have plenty of time to admire the nature that surrounds you.
After a much-needed break, you will continue your hike through the day until it is time to settle in the local teahouse for the evening. Enjoying the simple pleasures of a night under the stars, your food is freshly cooked with ingredients found nearby. You may even have a chance to explore the nearby area, escaping the usual hustle and bustle of everyday life. After a good night’s sleep, rest assured that the next morning’s journey will be filled with more beauty and exploration of nature’s best-kept secrets.
Our company strives to provide our clients with the most satisfying experience possible. If you wish to customize this trip itinerary, you are welcome. We are flexible and will do our best to accommodate your requests.
In the unlikely event of an emergency, such as altitude sickness or an accident, you will be taken to the nearest hospital. Or evacuated via helicopter and transported to a hospital quickly. Please be mindful that you are responsible for all associated costs, so ensure that your travel insurance covers medical and emergency evacuation expenses.
Besides, our expert guides always carry comprehensive first aid kits to assist when needed. These kits are stocked with various items to ensure that you can receive appropriate treatment for any minor injuries sustained during your trip. The first aid box contains:
NB: We also advise carrying your first aid kit for minor injuries, aches, pains, blisters, etc.
Most tea houses are equipped with electricity, allowing visitors to charge their devices at an additional cost of $2 to $3. However, access to electricity may not be available at a higher elevation. Don’t worry; we will carry portable solar panels with us.
It is essential to have proper equipment when embarking on this trek, including sturdy hiking boots, a waterproof outer layer, multiple layers of clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, gloves, shocks, etc., to adjust to fluctuating temperatures. Additionally, you will be accompanied by a guide throughout your journey, so you won’t need to bring any additional specialist equipment. Depending in the season you are traveling in, a more detailed packing list will be provided.
If you find that your lodging does not meet your requirements, you may discuss with your guide the possibility of changing to alternative accommodation located nearby and of suitable quality and if they have a vacancy.
It is up to you to decide the amount of tips and gratuities to offer; this is based on your budget and the level of satisfaction with the service provided. Generally, 10% of the total tour cost is the suggested amount.
Our company is officially recognized by the government and holds a valid license.
Based on 7 Reviews
Excellent
Our group had an incredible experience trekking through Upper Dolpa in Nepal. We were so thankful for the company of our guide, the team that accompanied us, and Peregrine Treks for providing amazing service and taking great care of us during the entire trip.
Excellent
Choosing to partner with Peregrine Treks for the Upper Dolpo Trek was certainly a wise decision. The team was incredibly attentive and made sure we had everything we needed to stay safe and comfortable throughout the journey. I’m so glad I chose them, and I highly recommend them to anyone else who may be looking to embark on a similar adventure.
Excellent
I just wanna give a big shout-out to The Peregrine Treks crew for an awesome, amazing, and remarkable trip! I had an epic time and couldn’t be happier. The Peregrine team was the real deal. I’m definitely booking another holiday with them soon!
Excellent
I just finished an awesome trek in Upper Dolpo with Peregrine Treks. They made everything so easy – from the paperwork in Kathmandu to hooking us up with all our supplies. Dolpo was totally stunning. I mean, I’ve never seen anything like it. The trek was tough at points but oh so worth it. The villages were so welcoming, and the people were so nice. Everywhere we stayed, it was like we were part of a different culture. And the food! Delish. And the beds were comfy too.
Excellent
I’m so glad I partnered with Peregrine Treks for the Upper Dolpo Trek – they were awesome! They made sure we were all taken care of – safe and cozy the whole time. Highly recommend ’em if you’re looking to do something similar.
Excellent
I had an awesome trek with Peregrine Treks – they picked me up at the airport, and throughout the whole experience, everything was great. The hotel in Kathmandu was dope, and the pre-trek meeting was cool to get us set up. But the trek itself was the best – the guide and porters were so friendly and helpful, and I felt totally safe the whole time. Plus, the scenery was to die for!
Excellent
We had an awesome time on our trip with Peregrine Treks! Our guide was super helpful and knowledgeable, and we made some unforgettable memories that we’ll never forget. We’re already planning our next adventure, and we’d definitely recommend this company to anyone looking for a great experience. The professionalism and customer service were top-notch – shout out to Peregrine Treks for their commitment to excellence!
The best experience we had with Peregrine was the whole tour of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek was tailor-made for our requirements; all our requests were reviewed, discussed, and accepted and, in some instances, with a better recommendation.
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