Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. A comprehensive briefing will be covering the trek route, special Upper Dolpo permits, logistics, gear check, and safety preparation for this remote expedition.
We fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and then take a connecting mountain flight to Juphal. Upon arrival, final trek preparations are made and overnight stay is arranged.
The trek begins with a descent from Juphal, following the Thuli Bheri River through terraced fields and villages. We reach Dunai, the administrative center of Dolpo.
We enter Shey Phoksundo National Park and follow forested trails along the river. The route passes small settlements and gradually ascends to Chhepka.
The trail continues through dense pine and cedar forests with occasional views of waterfalls and cliffs. We ascend gradually to Rachi, a quiet settlement in the forested valley.
We climb steadily to reach the spectacular Phoksundo Lake, known for its deep turquoise color. We stay near Ringmo village, a traditional settlement with strong Tibetan cultural influence.
A full acclimatization day at Phoksundo Lake. You can explore Ringmo village, visit local monasteries, and walk along the lake while adjusting to altitude.
We follow a remote trail along the lake and into high alpine terrain. The route leads to Shey Gompa, also known as the Crystal Monastery, one of the most sacred sites in Dolpo.
We begin gaining altitude towards the Kang La pass region. The trail moves through barren landscapes and high ridges, preparing for the upcoming pass crossing.
We cross the challenging Kang La Pass, entering the vast high-altitude plateau of Upper Dolpo. The scenery becomes dramatic with open landscapes and distant mountain views.
We continue trekking across arid plateau terrain with strong winds and minimal vegetation. The route leads toward Saldang, one of the largest villages in Upper Dolpo.
A day to explore Saldang village, interact with locals, and observe traditional lifestyle. Preparation for the next high pass crossing is also done.
We cross another high pass, Saldang La, and descend into a remote valley. The trail offers expansive views of the trans-Himalayan landscape.
We trek through high valleys and remote settlements such as Yangze or Sibu, experiencing strong Tibetan cultural influence and traditional architecture.
Another challenging day as we cross Jeng La or an alternative high pass. The route provides dramatic mountain scenery and access to the next valley system.
We descend into remote villages such as Tokyu or Serkem, where the landscape begins to soften slightly and settlements become more frequent.
We continue trekking through isolated valleys and plateau terrain, experiencing the vast openness and remoteness of Upper Dolpo.
A remote camping day in a high valley. This section offers solitude, scenic beauty, and chances to spot Himalayan wildlife such as blue sheep.
We begin descending towards the Dho-Tarap region, gradually leaving the high plateau environment behind.
We explore Tarap Valley, one of the widest valleys in Nepal, dotted with traditional villages and monasteries reflecting ancient culture.
We continue descending along an old trade route to Tarakot, a historic village that once served as a major trading post.
We trek through lower Dolpo villages, following river valleys and gradually approaching the exit point of the trek.
Final trekking section back to the Juphal region. Preparation for departure flight.
Morning flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj. Transfer to hotel and rest after completing the trekking section.
Flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel and free time for rest.
These days are reserved as buffer days due to weather conditions in remote flight regions. They can also be used for rest, sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley, or optional cultural tours.
