Among all the trekking in Nepal, the Dolpo trek is one of the most mesmerizing treks where you can enjoy the fantastic view in remote regions of the Himalayas. Dolpo is located in the far western region of Nepal where you will be passing through the rarest routes. You may anticipate discovering one of Nepal’s most challenging trekking trails throughout your journey to this fascinating area.
You’ll fly to Jhuphal (Dolpo) after landing in the busy Capital and begin your journey with a hike to Dunai. From here, you’ll travel for three days before arriving at the magnificent Phoksundo Lake, where you may marvel at its crystal blue waters. After some relaxation, you’ll go to the Himalayas to visit some of the tallest and most known peaks. However, you can expect to be impressed by more than simply nature.
This walk is rich in culture, with several visits to renowned Gompas and rural communities sprinkled throughout. If you are ever planning a Dolpo trek then you can experience a peaceful environment along with the mountains. If you are a peace lover, then you will surely love Dolpo Trek where you will witness less crowd of tourists.
How long is Dolpo Trek?
The duration of your trek to Dolpo can be according to your itinerary where most trekking to Dolpo can last up to 24 days and more. You can customize your itinerary according to your plans and days. On your way to Dolpo, you can enjoy various side treks on your way which can extend your trekking period.
Is Dolpo Trek Safe?
Yes, Trek to Dolpo is safe. Dolpo has been considered one of the most secure and safest trekking locations in Nepal. Most people question the earthquake in 2015 as it was the epicenter. So, now the situation is alright, and is safe to travel.
Dolpo Trek is categorized under classical treks of Nepal where the trails are demanding and easy to walk but still, the trek is categorized under hard trek where you will be walking till 5300m.
Highlights of Dolpo Trek
- The peaceful environment inside the Largest National Park of Nepal, Shey Phoksundo National Park.
- It is less crowded than other treks in Nepal.
- Biggest animal concentration national park with opportunity for sighting of rare snow leopard
- Crystal clear water at Phoksundo Lake and exploring the surrounding nature.
- Shey Gompa. One of the oldest monasteries which lasted for more than 800 years.
- Experience cool air and an amazing view at Dolpo Jomsom through Upper Dolpo.
- Get a mesmerizing view of Putha Hiunchuli, Dogari Mountain, Dhaulagiri II, Chuureni Mountain, Guraj Mountain, Kanjirowa Himal, Kang Tokal, Kang Nyung Than, Sita Chuchura, Lhashama, Shey Shikhar, Dogari Himal, Sechi La, Chokarpo and many more mountain ranges.
- Get a view of wildlife such as thar, Himalayan black bear, goral, Himalayan blue sheep, rhesus monkeys, and langur with various flora and fauna.
- Pilgrimage Trek to Bonpo Sanctuary.
- Spectacular flight from Kathmandu to Juphal.
- Getting to know more about the culture, and traditions of people living in the mountains influenced by the Tibetian region.
- Enjoy the Dolpo Phoksundo festival with a wonderful view of the lake and landscapes.
- You will get to know various trekking routes such as Mola Pass, Balangra Lagna, Niwas la, Bagala, Sela Muckchung, Kagmara, and Jhyarkoyi Pass, and get many other side hikes.
- During the blossoming season, enjoy the many colors of rhododendron woodlands during the trek
What are the peaks that can be seen during Dolpo Trek?
Nepal is famous for its hilly nation and various mountains. Among the 14 highest peaks in the world, 8 peaks lie within the border of Nepal. Similarly, within the Dolpo region, various gorgeous peaks attract visitors from around the world. Every mountain present within the region has its specialty. As Dolpo is unpopular among tourists many of these summits are yet unexplored although the routes and trails are easy.
You will get a mesmerizing view of various mountains such as Guraj Mountain (7193m), Dhaulagiri II (7751m), Dhaulagiri III (7715m) Putha Hiuchuli (7246m), Dhaulagiri IV and V (7661m and 7618m) mountains which are above 7000 meters.
On your way to the Dolpo region from different routes, you can get amazing views. You will be crossing through many routes such as Niwas la, Nangdala Pass, Mola Pass, Balangra Lagna, Jayanta Pass, Phague, Sela Muckchung, Yamburala, and many other passes.
What is the best season for Dolpo Trek?
The ideal time to visit Upper Dolpo, like much of Nepal, is in the spring April to May, and fall from October to November when temperatures are nice, the sky is clear, and there is little risk of snow at high elevations. In April and November, late/early snow may wreak havoc on this route, rendering certain passes impassable. We have categorized the months according to the best season and difficult season accordingly:
Spring (March to May)
In Lower Dolpo, spring is a fantastic season to go hiking. Snow in the early spring, however, may be an issue in the Upper Dolpo, making it difficult or impossible to traverse several mountains.
The optimum spring months for Upper Dolpo are from mid-to-late April until the end of May. Shey Gompa, Bon Po practitioners, unique Tibetan culture, Buddhist monasteries, Phoksundo Lake, views of Dhaulagiri and other Crystal Mountains where you can witness a mountain whose cliffs are laced with quartz and marine fossils, you can get a chance to get a view of rare snow leopard are just a few of the amazing things you’ll see in Upper Dolpo in any season.
Difficulty Level for Dolpo trek in the spring
In the early spring, several passes may still be snow-covered and impassable. If necessary, be prepared to adjust your route. Early March, and maybe through mid-April, will necessitate the use of snow gear. The weather and circumstances have been ideal since mid-April, making it ideal for individuals with little technical or snow-h hiking expertise.
Temperatures will range from -10 to 13 degrees Celsius at this time (minus 10 over the high passes)
Monsoon (June to August)
Once you reach there, this is a wonderful time to walk in Upper Dolpo’s rain shadow area.
Flights to and from Nepalgunj will be vulnerable to cancellation owing to weather conditions, making getting there a challenge. If you want to trek at this time, add a further 2-3 days to account for unexpected airline cancellations.
This time of year, the weather is perfect.
It’s worth noting that this is also when the local community (and neighboring villages) gather Yarsagumba (half insect half herb). As a result, businesses and schools in the area will be shuttered. This normally occurs between the middle of May and the end of June.
Difficulty level for Dolpo trek in Monsoon
Except for the first several days of the walk, there will be no trouble with rain. Because of the rain, the paths may be slick. Rain gear is not necessary farther down the path, in the rain shadow area, and the trails will be dry. However, monsoon weather conditions in the country’s lower parts may cause aircraft delays. Local amenities may be closed during some of this time, so keep that in mind.
Temperatures will range from -4 to 17 degrees Celsius (minus 4 over the high passes)
Autumn (September to November)
Upper Dolpo, like other hiking destinations in Nepal, is best visited in the spring. But don’t wait too long — in November, the weather will become colder and snow will fall. The weather is ideal this time of year. However, given you’re in the Himalayas, you should be prepared for unexpected snowfall!
The weather will be mild, and the skies will be clear. At this time of year, snow is unlikely to fall.
This is also harvest season, which lends a unique twist to your journey as you drive through local villages.
Difficulty Level in the Autumn for Dolpo trek
By November, the snow will be back, making it difficult to cross several of the passes. Make the necessary preparations. However, snow is unlikely to fall in September and October.
Temperatures will range from roughly -3 degrees Celsius in September to -11 degrees Celsius in November over the same passes. As fall turns to winter, low-altitude temperatures will range from 20 to 14 degrees Celsius.
Winter (December to February)
Due to the harsh cold and massive snowfalls that would block passages, Upper Dolpo trekking should not be undertaken in the winter.
Difficulty Level in the winter for Dolpo trek
It could be done if you are a skilled trekker with a lot of snow experience and specific equipment. However, for the rest of us, we do not encourage trekking in Upper Dolpo during the winter! It’s practically impossible!
At higher heights, temperatures will drop below minus 14°C.
What are the accommodations like during the Dolpo trek?
There is great accommodation in the Dolpo region. On your way, you will be getting various teahouses and on your way to the upper part, you will be unable to find teahouses because the sources of accommodation are very few and camping is the only way.
Permits required for Dolpo Trek
Permits required for Lower Dolpo Trek
- Foreign visitors to Shey-Phoksundo National Park must pay a charge of 3,000 NPR plus 13% VAT, totaling 3,390 NPR (about $34).
- For SAARC citizens, the entrance cost to Shey-Phoksundo National Park is 1,500 NPR.
- Permit for TIMS: 1,000 NPR (about USD 10
Permits required for Upper Dolpo Trek
- Permit to enter the Upper Dolpo Restricted Area for all foreigners: For the first ten days, each participant pays $500, then $50 each day after that.
- Foreign visitors to Shey-Phoksundo National Park must pay a charge of 3,000 NPR plus 13% VAT, totaling 3,390 NPR (about $34).
- For SAARC citizens, the entrance cost to Shey-Phoksundo National Park is 1,500 NPR.
Note: There are many places in the Dolpo region where you cannot walk alone. So, to visit such places you will have to apply for permits which are done by trekking agencies only. So, for this process, we at Great Everest Trek are always available for you.
Packaging list for Dolpo Trek
Planning a Trek to Dolpo? Then you will require some essential things to pack. The list is down below:
- Get good trekking shoes because you’ll be walking for 6 to 7 hours a day.
- Dolpo is a chilly region, so you’ll need warm clothing such as coats and sweaters to avoid getting sick.
- Carry water/windproof socks and gloves to keep your hands and feet warm, plus a rucksack to adjust anything you’re carrying. If you’re traveling with a potter, you can acquire two rucksacks because the potter will be carrying one.
- Carry long-sleeved clothing to keep you protected from the wind.
- You’ll be walking for 6 to 7 hours and will need to stay hydrated, so bring a water bottle. After everyone has stopped, you may fill it.
- Thermal wear to keep your upper and lower body warm.
- Carry a hiking stick if you have difficulty ascending.
- To avoid getting a tan, use a hat or cap.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and face wipes are all recommended.
- Bring your necessities, such as towels, toothbrushes, and toilet paper, with you.
- In case of an emergency, have a medical kit on hand.
- In case of emergency, have a copy of your passport and passport-size pictures with you.
Dolpo Trek Brief Itinerary
| Days | Destination | Altitude | Duration |
| Day 1 | First day in Kathmandu | – | – |
| Day 2 | Get to know more about Kathmandu (Explore) | – | – |
| Day 3 | Kathmandu to Nepalgunj by air | 429m | 1 hour |
| Day 4 | To Juphal by air and trek to Dunai | 2140m | 3 hours |
| Day 5 | Ankhe | 2660m | 6 hours |
| Day 6 | Sunlighat | 3500m | 6 hours |
| Day 7 | Shey Phoksundo Lake | 3600m | 5 hours |
| Day 8 | Shey Phoksundo Lake | 3600m | Acclimatization |
| Day 9 | Phoksundo River | 3507m | 5 hours |
| Day 10 | Phoksundo Bhanjyang | 4402m | 6 hours |
| Day 11 | Shey Gompa | 5151m | 6 hours |
| Day 12 | Exploring Shey Gompa | 5151m | Acclimatization |
| Day 13 | Namduna Gaun | 4785m | 7 hours |
| Day 14 | Saldang | 3903m | 5 hours |
| Day 15 | Yangze Gompa | 3855m | 5 hours |
| Day 16 | Sibu | 3942m | 6 hours |
| Day 17 | Jeng-la Phedi | 4369m | 6 hours |
| Day 18 | Tokyu Gaun | 4369m | 5 hours |
| Day 19 | Dho Tarap | 4090m | 5 hours |
| Day 20 | Exploring Dho Tarap | 4090m | Acclimatization |
| Day 21 | Tarap River | 3800m | 6 hours |
| Day 22 | Khanigaon | 2550m | 5 hours |
| Day 23 | Tarakot | 2281m | 5 hours |
| Day 24 | Dunai | 2140m | 6 hours |
| Day 25 | Juphal | 2502m | 3hours |
| Day 26 | Nepalgunj to Kathmandu by air | – | 2 hours |
| Day 27 | Leaving Kathmandu, Nepal | – | – |
Upper Dolpo Trek
The Upper Dolpo region is one of the most famous trekking spots in the far-western part of Nepal which transports you to one of the most isolated regions. Being famous among the local people it is still an unknown trekking spot based on tourism infrastructure.
| Upper Dolpo Trek | Facts |
| Kanjirowa, Shey – Shikhar, and other high Himalayan peaks | 7000 meters+ |
| Difficulty Level | Hard/ Great effort |
| Highest Altitude | 5350 m |
| Best Time | April to October |
| Starting and ending Destination | Juphal |
| Mode of transport | Land, Air |
| Total duration | 14 days to 26 days. |
Detailed Upper Dolpo Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive at Kathmandu, Nepal:
On this day you will be welcomed to Nepal and will be transferred to your hotel room
Day 2: Visiting different places in Kathmandu
On this day you will be visiting various places in Kathmandu. You will be going to different spiritual and historical landmarks and UNESCO heritage sites. Some of the most famous sites are Boudhanath, Pashupatinath temple, and 3 different Durbar Squares.
Day 3: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj by flight:
You will be heading towards the western part of Nepal by air which is an hour-long distance. The weather will be extremely hot compared to Kathmandu. Once you reach there you will enjoy your day by exploring Nepalgunj.
Day 4: Juphal to Dunai:
On this day you will fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal within half an hour. The weather will be chilled compared to Nepalgunj. Then, from Juphal you will trek to Dunai.
Day 5: Trek to Ankhe(2896m):
After Dunai you will be going through a suspension bridge through which you will be going towards the west. The trials towards Ankhe will go through the river banks and across different fields.
Day 6: Trek towards Sulighat:
The trail from our tent at Ankhe ascends sharply to 2,900m after a few ups and downs along the woodland riverbed. Along the route, we cross various creeks where we may cool down. We gradually emerge from the woods and cross a grassy ridge high above the river. (2,950m) The route next becomes a jumble of pebbles and sticks that form a dam along the river’s edge.
Day 7: Phoksundo Lake (3611m):
Continuing the trek, we will be passing through a 3-way junction where it meets the Phoksundo and Pungmo rivers. You will be passing through the Pungmo River and cedar forest. Your trek will end at Palam village. Then, you will be moving to Phoksundo Lake where you can enjoy crystal clear water and a 300m high waterfall.
Day 8: Acclimatization day at Phoksundo Lake
On this day you will be staying at Phoksundo Lake where you can explore various short hikes.
Day 9: Trek to Phoksundo River.
On this day the trek will start from the edge of the lake through which you will be heading towards Upper Dolpo through steep trails. By catching the trails, you will go through the Phoksundo River. So, once you cross the river you will be spending your day thereby setting up a camp.
Day 10: Trek to Phoksundo Bhanjyang
By going towards the North for an hour via glacier village you will get an old bridge made up of woods which lies at the junction of the lake. After a long climb, we will reach Phoksundo Bhanjyang. We will be spending your night here. You can get mesmerizing views of different mountain ranges.
Day 11: Trek to Shey Gompa (4500m) through Kang-La pass
On this day you will be walking a 2 hours lengthy trek through which you will reach Kang La Pass. Once you reach Kang La Pass you will get a mesmerizing view of a wide valley. You will be going through a high slope which will be covered by snow. In this way, you will reach Shey Gompa in 3 hours.
Day 12: Acclimatization Day
On this day we will be taking a break along with exploring more about Shey Gompa. We will be going on a short hike to Tsakang Gompa which is located to the north. Tsakang Gompa is one of the oldest monasteries where lamas used to meditate. We can enjoy the Buddhist culture and the different cultures of locals living there.
Day 13: Trek to Namduna Gaun through Saldang La
Your trials will be going through gorgeous and chilled dim forests covered with trees. Going through the trials you will reach Saldang-la which will be the highest point of your trek through which we will approach towards the north direction.
This trek will be the longest where you can get a view of wonderful landscapes, sheep, and munching yaks. Then go towards Namduna Gaun. We will stop at Namduna Gaun for our camps. You will experience the tents made up of yak hair.
Day 14: Trek to Saldang
Our journey to Saldang begins with a sledding hill. We approach 4700m and descend the steep hill to the lovely town of Saldang, located on a plateau high above the Nam Khong Nala and the largest settlements in the lower Dolpo area. The community is affluent not just because of its agricultural production, but mostly because of its strategic location on a trading route to Tibet.
Day 15: Trek towards Yangze Gompa
We will be making a trip towards the north where the tourism level will be less. We will be moving further with the Nang River for the remaining journey from which we will be passing through the east of the Panzang River by crossing it. From here we will reach our point at Yangze Gompa. At Yangze Gompa you can visit various places among which the Bon-Po is one of the oldest monasteries where can visit.
Day 16: Trek to Sibu
While starting the trek we will meet a junction where the trials meet the Yangtze and Shibu rivers among which will be taking the path that goes back to Saldang village. On your way, you will pass through different stupas, terraced farms mani piles, and other beautiful sceneries. Walking towards the river for almost 2 hours you will arrive at Sibu.
Day 17: Trek to Jeng la Phedi
On this day will start our trek by following the Nam Khong River for almost 2 hours from which we will be going towards the east where you will find the trails towards Jeng La Pass.
Day 18: Tokyu Gaon
After two hours, we will move to another stream before turning to the east side of the valley and climbing steeply to the region below Jeng La Pass.
Day 19: Dho Tarap:
Moving to the downward path of Tarap Chu, we will be going straight. On your way, you will witness mani walls and different Chortens and pagodas. As you go towards Dho Tarap you will see a French school that lies at the edge of the town before Dho Tarap. So, taking the trials you will reach Dho Tarap.
Day 20: Acclamation Day
You can explore various places at Dho Tarap on this day. Get to know more about the place and the lifestyle of the people. If you are interested, then you can try short hikes around the village.
Day 21: Trek to Tarap Khola
We drop from Tarap into a large valley that narrows into a canyon. We make our way to barely above the treeline. You could witness blue sheep herds. We arrive at the Tarap Chu-Lang Khola intersection in the afternoon. We pitched up a tent here. Spend the night in this location, which is also known as Kamakharka (3,800m).
Day 22: Khanigaon
Catching the trials of Tarap River we will cross the herds towards the lower pasture. As the trials get narrow you will be able to jump the other side of the Tarap River. Once you reach the other side of the Tarap River we will be resting at Khanigaon.
Day 23: Trek to Tatakot
While approaching Tatakot you will get to see Sandul Gompa and another monastery. Along your trek, you can go to Tatakot at the end of the day or camp on the bank of the river.
Note: you can find various facilities on the bank of rivers such as cooking and hygienic toilets.
Day 24: Dunai
On this day we will be going to Dunai via the Barbung River. Our journey will take us to the dim, greenery, and wonderful alpine valley. You can experience and learn more about the Hindus at Dunai as it is also called a Hindu village.
Day 25: Jhuphal
Last day of adventure. We will go down to the Bheri River through many guest houses at Kalakonda village. The trials towards the airport will be going through the Juphal hamlet.
Day 26: Fly to Nepalgunj then go towards Kathmandu
We will be flying towards Nepalgunj after breakfast where you can get a mesmerizing view of the mountains. You can get a view of the highest peaks such as the Dhaulagiri range Annapurna range and other mountains. Once you land at Nepalgunj you take a flight to Kathmandu on the next possible flight.
Day 27: Departure day
Time to leave Nepal. You will be taken to the airport through an available vehicle by your hotel.
Lower Dolpo Trek
Lower Dolpo Trek takes you to one of the most remote regions of the Dolpo region here you will get to witness a typical Nepali traditional and dry atmosphere which is located at a higher altitude. While trekking to Lower Dolpo you will have to walk for about 6 to 7 hours a day where you will be passing through different diverse cultures and forests with a wonderful view of different snowcapped mountains.
You will also get to experience the different festivals held by the locals of the Dolpo region. Along you way, you can experience the wonderful environment of Shey Phoksundo Lake and tour Phoksundo National Park where you can have a view of different wildlife.
Lower Dolpo Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu
On this day, you will be welcomed to Nepal and shown to your hotel room.
Day 2: Visiting various locations in Kathmandu
You will be touring numerous locations in Kathmandu on this day. You will see several spiritual and historical landmarks as well as UNESCO heritage sites. Some of the most well-known landmarks include Boudhanath, Pashupatinath temple, and three separate Durbar Squares.
Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
You will travel by flight for one hour to the western portion of Nepal. In comparison to Kathmandu, the weather will be exceedingly hot. Once there, you will spend the day touring Nepalgunj.
Day 4: Juphal to Dunai
You will fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal in under an hour on this day. In comparison to Nepalgunj, the weather will be mild. Then you’ll hike from Juphal to Dunai.
Day 5: To Tarakot
Starting our trek with the flows of the Beheri River along with our trials we will experience various streams, bridges, and a peaceful environment along with singing birds. Moving forward will reach Tatakot village where you will stay for your night.
Day 6: Laini
Trekking towards Laini will be a long trek where we will cross Sandul Sompa which is located between the Tatap Chu River and Barung River. We will be passing various villages and monasteries through which we will reach Laini
Day 7: Nawarpani
Climbing further with the flows of the Tarap River you will meet the Chyugur River through which you will reach Nawarpani. Across your journey, you will experience exciting adventures such as jumping across rivers along narrow roads.
Day 8: Do Tarap
Uphill towards Kamattarke by following the lines of trees where you will meet a gorgeous forest covered with wild roses. Crossing through the wild rose forest will be moving further to our spot, Do Tarap.
Day 9: Acclamation Day
You will explore more about Do Tarap. You can visit the area with a short walk or hike to monasteries. Explore the lifestyle of locals and interact with them.
Day 10: Numa La Base Camp
We started the route again after our rest day, this time heading towards the Upper Trap Valley. We may enjoy views of beautiful meadows and the large Tarap valley, replete with wide plains and towering mountains, as we stroll alongside the Tarap Chi River. Our next stop is the town of Tokyu, which is home to a Buddhist monastery of the Chiba Sect. After a little exploration, we follow the difficult route to Numa La Base Camp, where we will spend the night.
Day 11: Camp at Pelung Tang
Crossing through Numa La pass we will start our trek which will be the hardest so far. The adventure begins with a steep trail after you cross Numa La Pass. Along with adventures, you will get wonderful views of mountains, forests, and rivers. You can get a look at the beautiful peak of the Dhaulagiri ranges and further we will reach Pelung tang.
Day 12: Dajok Tang through Baga La pass
Your day starts with steep climbing to the top of Baga La Pass from where you can enjoy the beautiful view of nature along with snowcapped mountains. Moving further you will rest at Dajok Tang.
Day 13: Ringmo
This will be an easy trek as you will be walking gently. After completing tough treks, you can now enjoy your trek gently across pine forests along with alpine vegetation. You will be catching the easy trials until you reach your spot, Ringmo.
Day 14: Phoksundo Lake
Beautiful day on your trek as you will be visiting the Phoksundo Lake where you can get a view of crystal clear water and can camp at the bank of the lake. As the views are mesmerizing you will see more wonderful sceneries along your trek.
Day 15: Shyanta
Trekking down to Cehpka following the huge rock that has been hanging along with your trials takes you to the village through which it will be your final trek. You can enjoy your time in various villages the climb up to Shyanta.
Day 16: Trek to Jhupal
This is going to be the last trek of your journey. You will be going through a dim forest covered with birch trees which leads you towards Sulighat. You can take a short break at the edge of the village where you can have a precious view of mountains and landscape then continue your journey towards Jhupal. Once you reach Jhupal you will take a rest for your day where you will make your camp and spend your night in a tent.
Day 17: To Kathmandu from Nepalgunj
It is high time that you leave Shyanta. You will go towards the airport and fly to Nepalgunj through which you will take the next possible flight to Kathmandu. Once you land in Kathmandu you can enjoy your time in the capital city by visiting many places.
Day 18: Departure day
It is time to leave Nepal. Your hotel will transport you to the airport in an available vehicle.