Introduction
The Upper Dolpo Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote, mysterious, and culturally rich trekking adventures. Hidden behind the towering Dhaulagiri range in western Nepal, this isolated region remained closed to outsiders until the late 1980s. Often described as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” Upper Dolpo offers an unforgettable blend of rugged Himalayan landscapes, ancient Tibetan culture, and raw natural beauty.
For trekkers seeking solitude and authentic adventure, the Upper Dolpo Trek is an extraordinary experience that takes you far from the modern world into a land untouched by time.
Trek Overview
- Location: Dolpo Region, Northwestern Nepal
- Maximum Elevation: ~5,190 m (Kang La Pass)
- Duration: 20–27 days
- Starting Point: Juphal (via flight from Nepalgunj)
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Best Seasons: May–October
- Permit Required: Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Highlights of the Upper Dolpo Trek
- Shey Phoksundo Lake — The Jewel of Dolpo
The deep turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake, surrounded by barren cliffs and snow-capped peaks, are the centerpiece of the trek. The lake’s serene beauty and sacred significance to Buddhists and Bon followers make it a truly magical destination. - Ancient Bon and Buddhist Culture
Upper Dolpo is one of the few places where the ancient Bon religion—predating Buddhism—still thrives. Trekkers encounter centuries-old monasteries such as Shey Gompa and Crystal Mountain, where monks practice rituals unchanged for generations. - Remote Villages and Nomadic Lifestyle
Passing through isolated settlements like Saldang, Dho Tarap, and Tinje, trekkers experience the resilience and simplicity of Dolpo’s inhabitants, who survive through yak herding, salt trading, and barley farming. - High Mountain Passes and Wild Landscapes
The route crosses challenging passes such as Kang La (5,190 m), Sela La (5,094 m), and Jeng La (5,110 m), offering panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri and Kanjirowa ranges. The scenery transitions from arid Tibetan-style plateaus to lush valleys filled with wildflowers. - Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure
Unlike the crowded trails of Everest or Annapurna, Upper Dolpo offers complete wilderness. It’s ideal for trekkers seeking a true Himalayan expedition away from commercialization.
Suggested Itinerary (22-Day Trek)
Day 1–2: Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then to Juphal (2,475 m). Trek to Dunai.
Day 3–5: Trek to Ringmo Village and Shey Phoksundo Lake.
Day 6–8: Acclimatization and exploration around the lake and Phoksundo Gompa.
Day 9–11: Cross Kang La Pass and reach Shey Gompa, the spiritual heart of Dolpo.
Day 12–15: Trek through Namgung and Saldang villages, experiencing authentic local culture.
Day 16–19: Continue through Dho Tarap Valley, one of the highest human settlements in the world.
Day 20–22: Descend via Juphal and fly back to Kathmandu.
(Itineraries can vary based on route, acclimatization needs, and weather.)
Permits and Regulations
Upper Dolpo is a restricted area, and trekkers must travel with a registered trekking agency. The following permits are required:
- Restricted Area Permit (Upper Dolpo): USD 500 per person for the first 10 days; USD 50 for each additional day.
- Lower Dolpo Permit: USD 20 per person per week.
- Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit.
Solo trekking is not allowed — a minimum of two trekkers with a licensed guide is mandatory.
Best Time for Upper Dolpo Trek
- Spring (May–June): Moderate temperatures and clear skies.
- Summer/Monsoon (July–September): Ideal in Dolpo due to its location in the rain shadow of the Himalayas.
- Autumn (September–October): Stable weather and crystal-clear mountain views.
(Winter months are extremely cold and not recommended.)
Difficulty and Preparation
The Upper Dolpo Trek is physically demanding, involving multiple high passes above 5,000 meters and long walking days. Trekkers should:
- Be in excellent physical condition.
- Have prior high-altitude trekking experience.
- Carry appropriate gear for cold and remote conditions.
- Be prepared for limited facilities — camping is required in many sections.
Hiring experienced guides, porters, and a support crew is essential for safety and logistics.
Cultural Etiquette
- Always ask permission before photographing people or monasteries.
- Walk clockwise around stupas and mani walls.
- Dress modestly and respect local traditions.
- Offer small donations to monasteries or schools if you wish to support local communities.
Why Choose the Upper Dolpo Trek
- A chance to witness authentic Tibetan culture in its purest form.
- Unspoiled wilderness with minimal human interference.
- Deep spiritual connection in a land that inspired Peter Matthiessen’s book The Snow Leopard.
- One of the most exclusive and rewarding treks in the Himalayas.
Conclusion
The Upper Dolpo Trek is not just a trek — it’s a spiritual and cultural odyssey into one of the world’s last untouched Himalayan frontiers. From the turquoise depths of Shey Phoksundo Lake to the sacred trails of Shey Gompa, every step reveals a deeper connection between nature, faith, and human endurance. For adventurers seeking to go beyond the ordinary, Upper Dolpo promises an experience that is both humbling and transformative.
