Upper Dolpo Trek - 25 days

It’s a challenging trek to Shey Gompa as you have to climb across the Kang La Pass (5350 m), but it is rewarding with magnificent vistas from the summit of the pass, where prayer flags add the charm of the environment. From here, as you approach Shey Gompa, the slope becomes gentler compared to its initial steepness. The major highlight of Shey Gompa is the monastery, even though there are fewer buildings. As per legend, Shey Gompa was constructed after a disciple of Buddha arrived riding a snow lion to battle a formidable local mountain demon. Shey Gompa was built on the location of this conflict. You can see a panoramic view of Crystal Mountain.

Today, while trekking to Namduna Gaon via Saldang La (5060 m), you can see the Tibetan Plateau at the top of the pass and Mustan to the east. After traversing the pass, the trail begins to head down into pastures and fields that encircle Nam Gaun Gompa. You can witness their nomadic tents, made of yak hair, and pastures where yak herders graze their yaks and sheep. There is another gompa in Namduna Gaun to explore and compare to others you have visited. You have a marvelous night here by setting up camp.

Traversing an ancient trade route to Tibet, you ascend to the top of the valley along the rocky and steep slopes with observation of lush, farmed land. Then the trail proceeds downhill in the direction of Saldang, the biggest village, which is located in the arid trans-Himalayan region of Dolpo, surrounded by jaw-dropping hills. It consists of five settlements dispersed across a vast, open hillside. Saldang is a thriving village because of its strategic position on the trade route between Tibet and Nepal, and it remains a fascinating village to visit.

Saldang is the perfect place to stay for an acclimatization day. It’s your second rest day of the trek. If you want to stretch your legs, then you can visit Yange Gompa and then get back to Saldang to prepare for the next stage of the journey.

Leaving Saldang after a delicious breakfast, your journey begins following the trail to the riverbed, walking by numerous terraced fields of distinctive crops. On the way, you can see prayer flags, prayer wheels, mani walls, chortens, etc. You are already well versed with Dolpo’s various gompas, and today Sibu will introduce you to more, such as Chaiba Monastery, Namdo Monastery, etc. Then you spend the overnight at a tented camp in Sibu.

Today’s adventurous journey starts following the path along the Nam Khong Khola’s edge and crossing a small stream via a bridge. You enter the dense forest filled with junipers, pines, and silver birches. After a short stretch, you begin a gradual climb into the side valley. From this point, the path becomes slightly more demanding.

You may see yak caravans on the trail as you cross the Nagon Khola and head to their grazing pastures. Then you eventually reach your destination after walking for 5 to 6 hours for the night’s stay and prepare to climb Jeng La Pass the next day.

Leaving Jeng La Phedi, you head to Tokyo Gaon via Jeng La Pass (5,150 m), which will be a bit strenuous but rewarding with spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri Massif and surroundings. After spending valuable moments here on the summit of the pass, you descend through rugged terrains towards a lush valley of Tarap with challenging trails, passing by the Tarap Chu River and featuring vast plains.

You can see there are roughly ten villages scattered across this flat landscape, each with its own cultivated lands, gompas, and chortens. Once you arrive at Tokyo Gaon,  you will visit some gompas, such as Tokyo Monastery.

Before leaving Tokyo Gaon, you explore Tokyo Monastery early in the morning. The path descends along with the prayer flags, mani walls, chortens, farms, and small settlements to a plain valley. Today’s destination is Dho Tarap, situated in a fertile valley with an abundance of agricultural land that is mainly dominated by the Magar community and farms, especially buckwheat, barley, and potatoes. They follow both Buddhism and Bon Po sects. You can explore this village by meeting locals and going to visit  Gompas. You spend a great night underneath the starry sky in the camp.

After having a hearty breakfast, the trail descends through woodlands of junipers and wild roses until a broad valley reaches. On the way, you may come across herds of blue sheep. If your fortune favors you. You will pass by the junction of the Tarap Chu and Lang Khola as you descend to the Tarap Khola and pass a few switchback routes. As you proceed to Tarap, the landscape starts to transition from grazing land to alpine vegetation as the elevation lowers. You once again set up camp next to a river that creates a peaceful and wonderful atmosphere.

Following the Tarap River and its gorge, your trekking will be an exciting and adventurous experience as you have to jump from one side to the other because the valley gets narrower. You should walk carefully, as you have to navigate some loose stone slabs. Walking for 5 to 6 hours, you reach Khani Gaon, which is visited by more trekkers than other villages. The serenity of Khani Gaon and the charm of the incredible Tarap Khola captivate your heart. You set up your camp for the night’s stay.

After having breakfast at Khanigaon, the journey starts by climbing to the village of Lalberi. The trail traverses dense forests to reach the river, where you can see a suspension bridge. You should be careful while crossing the river, as obstacles may take place because of the slippery trail. You can also see some farmed fields on the way as you approach Tarakot, an ancient fortified village that served as the religion’s capital before the establishment of the Gokha dynasty. There is Sandul Gompa, next to the Barbung and Tarap Chu rivers to the east of Tarakot. You spend a night in camp near the Tarap Chu River, next to the police post.

After having breakfast at Tarakot, you head down to Dunai with an easier descending trail than in the previous days. The journey continues until today’s destination along the Bheri River. As you reach the headquarters of Dolpo, you check into the teahouse to unwind and have beer and soft drinks for enjoyment. Today, you will spend a wonderful night in Dunai.

It’s your final day of trekking throughout the Dolpo region with some descents and ascents. At the last hour of the journey, you have to walk on a slightly steeper path. Then you reach the small airport in Juphal after passing by settlements such as Dhupichaur, Rupgad, Kalagaonda, and Motipur. You celebrate with more beer and soft drinks once you arrive in Juphal as you officially conclude the trek in the Upper Dolpo region and prepare for tomorrow's journey to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu by flying.

Today it’s a brief flight back to Nepalgunj before continuing to Kathmandu with another scenic flight.

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, offers both traditional and modern vibes together. There are numerous culturally significant features dating back centuries that resemble the traditionality of the country. On the other hand, hubs that represent the science and technologies of the current life also exist. Besides these, you can explore authentic cultural heritages on occasions celebrated by residents of the valley.

Kathmandu is also home to some World Heritage Sites listed by UNESCO, such as Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, Soyambhunath (Monkey Temple), Durbar Squares, etc., which are major attractions of the vibrant city. Moreover, you can visit the Garden of Dreams, Shiva Puri National Park, the Kathmandu Fun Park, Chandra Giri Hill, and other pilgrimage sites. You can buy souvenirs for your family members in the bustling markets like Thamel, Asan, Durbar Squares, etc.

Today, you will wave your hands in farewell, departing for the homeland after spending more than 3 weeks in the country of the Himalayas. Our official will shift you to Tribhuvan International Airport 2 to 3 hours earlier than your scheduled flight. Before leaving you there, our official will promise to serve in the same way next time if you choose us for a further excursion in Nepal.

Upon your arrival, our official will pick you up and take you to the hotel. In the evening, you join a welcome party where you meet your guide and fellow trekkers. The guide will brief the trek itinerary and may assist you with further preparation.

With excitement, you reach Nepalgunj by a 40-45 minute flight from Kathmandu that offers wonderful views from the sky. Our representative receives you from the airport and shifts you to the hotel to unwind. In the evening, you can stroll around the city of Nepalgunj for exploration. Then enjoy a night’s stay in a vibrant bazaar.

Another short flight from Nepalgunk takes you to Juphal, the starting point of official Upper Dolpo Trekking. The path goes through dense forests, picturesque settlements, and terraced fields of crops. You also walk on the riverside to reach Dunai, the administrative center of Dolpo. With the exploration of the typical village lifestyles of Dolpo, you eventually arrive at the destination after trekking for 4 to 5 hours. You have a wonderful night here in a peaceful environment.

A scenic journey to Ankhe begins with a strenuous ascent of the bustling town, Dunai. The path climbs up along the slope of the barren hillside, Thulo Bheri, and Phoksundo River Valley. While passing through several settlements, terraced fields, and rugged terrains, one of the trails leads you to a ridge, offering panoramic vistas of Kagmar Peak.

Traversing some villages like Rahagaun, popular for its gompa devoted to Mastha, the village’s guardian, and Dhera, noted for its walnut plantations. As you continue, you must head down to a canyon, where the forest becomes more dense and frigid. Before reaching the village, the suspension bridge awaits you to cross over the river.

Today’s trek begins with descending through forests filled with junipers and pines and winding rivers with a striking panorama of the great mountains. On the way, you can explore villages influenced by Tibetan traditions and cultures. After crossing the suspension bridge, the path ascends to the higher points and offers you marvelous views of the peaks and serene valleys. As you reach Sulighat, your permission will be inspected to enter Shey Phoksundo National Park. You can have the first wonderful camping here.

Today’s trek will be a thrilling journey, as your destination is Shey Phoksundo Lake, one of the key features of the trek. The trail continues, following the Phoksundo River, passing by traditional Tibetan villages, and offers to witness the meeting point of the Phoksundo and Pungmo rivers. On the way, you can enjoy Phoksundo Waterfalls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Nepal. Before entering Shey Phoksundo National Park, you traverse Ringmo Village, the closest settlement to Phoksundo, en route to the lake. Once your permits are checked, you set up camp tonight near the crystal-clear, turquoise water of Phoksundo with beautiful scenery.

In this serene atmosphere of Phoksundo Lake, you enjoy your first rest day after walking for several days. If you want to stretch your legs, then hike back to Ringmo village, where you can explore the Buddhist monastery and learn the arts, crafts, and culture of Tibetan Buddhism.  Besides this, you delve into the charm of your surroundings and practice yoga or meditation for peace of mind and heart because it’s a perfect place to meditate. The lake is also culturally significant and many people have a sacred belief in it.

On the 8th day, your trek to Sallaghari begins by walking on a relatively flat path along a riverbed aligned with Phoksundo Lake’s eastern coast that takes you to meadows scattered with rocks. On the way, you enjoy stunning views of Mt. Kanjirowa in the sky, even though the path is challenging. After waking for 5 to 6 hours, you reach Sallaghari, a quaint settlement that lies near the Dhaulagiri range. You can explore traditional, authentic ways of life with opportunities to interact with the inhabitants, influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. A wonderful night in the serene environment of Sallaghari.