Upper Dolpo Trek- 25 Days

Arrival at Kathmandu airport, pick up by our correspondent and transfer to the hotel. (At the foot of the Himalayas, where they assure that their gods live, Nepal stands, a land of spectacular landscapes, temples and cities with a rich cultural heritage. These seem to transfer the traveler to medieval times on their walks through KATHMANDU, BHAKTAPUR and PATAN, the three urban cities that represent the backbone of the country. Stay overnight at hotel.

This day we will prepare for the trekking. We will need passports and VISA details to prepare for Special Restricted Area Permit in Upper Dolpo Region. In the meantime, clients will have free day in Kathmandu, possible to explore around heritage sites or prepare for trekking. Stay overnight at hotel. 

• Kathmandu Durbar Square: A historic royal palace complex showcasing traditional Newari architecture, ancient temples, and vibrant cultural heritage in the heart of Kathmandu.
• Swoyambhunath (Monkey Temple): A sacred hilltop stupa offering panoramic views of Kathmandu and revered by both Buddhists and Hindus.
• Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest spherical stupas in the world, Boudhanath is a spiritual hub for Tibetan Buddhism and a serene place for circumambulation and prayer.
• Pashupatinath Temple: Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the Bagmati River, known for open cremation ghats and spiritual rituals.

This day we will have breakfast at the hotel and get ready to begin the trek. In the afternoon we will drive from hotel to Kathmandu TIA airport. We will have 1 hour flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, if weather is clear we can see beautiful mountain range of Lanagtang, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Manaslu Himalayas. Nepalgunj is one of the Terai regions of Nepal and is closer to Indian border and temperature is quite hot / warm. Overnight at hotel in Nepalgunj.

Today we will take early morning flight to Juphal (2440 m), which takes about 45 minutes.

Juphal is a small mountain airstrip located in the Dolpa District of western Nepal. It serves as the main gateway to the Upper and Lower Dolpo regions. Upon landing in Jhuphal, meet your porters, yak man, and then prepare to begin the first day of Upper Dolpo Trek. 

The trek from Jhuphal to Dunai takes about 3-4 hours of walking. Today's trail descends gradually through terraced fields and traditional villages, following the Thuli Bheri River. You will pass through the remote villages and terraced farmland, passing through scenic landscapes with views of rolling hills and deep valleys.

Dunai is the main town and administrative center of Dolpa district, offering lodges, guesthouses, small shops, and basic medical facilities. Stay overnight at lodge. 

Today after having breakfast in the morning, prepare to trek towards Chekpa which takes about 6-7 hours of walking. 

The trail to Chekpa begings with climbing through forested hills, passing small villages, terraced fields, and river valleys. Following the Phoksundo Khola River you will walk on mixed terrain of dirt trails and rocky sections. Along the way, you will pass through small villages, cross suspension bridges, and might even spot some wildlife, such as monkeys or mountain goats.

Chekpa is a small, remote village with very basic lodging options—mostly simple teahouses offering limited amenities. Overnight at lodge.

Today, we begin our trek from Chekpa to Ringmo which takes about 7 hours. The trail mostly ascends, winding through dense forests filled with pine and rhododendron trees. We cross several rivers and streams on wooden bridges, with the sound of flowing water accompanying us along the way. As we climb higher, the air feels fresher, and the scenery becomes more dramatic, with rocky cliffs and deep valleys. The trek can be tough at times due to the continuous uphill sections, but the breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings make it worthwhile. After hours of steady hiking, we finally reach Ringmo, a beautiful Tibetan-style village near the stunning Phoksundo Lake. We settle in for the night, ready to explore the lake the next day. Overnight at lodge.

Rest day in Ringmo allows us to relax and explore the beautiful surroundings of this traditional Tibetan-style village. The highlight of the area is the stunning Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s deepest lake, with its mesmerizing turquoise-blue waters. We can take short hikes around the lake, visit the ancient Bonpo monastery nearby, and learn about the unique Bon Buddhist culture practiced in the region. The peaceful environment, with prayer flags fluttering and the lake reflecting the surrounding mountains, makes it a perfect place to unwind and acclimatize before continuing the trek.

Today, after having breakfast we will head towards Bagala Phedi which takes about 6-7 hours, following a mix of uphill and downhill trails.
We start by walking along the beautiful Phoksundo Khola River, crossing it at several points. The trail takes us through rugged landscapes, alpine meadows, and rocky paths, offering a mix of challenging and easier sections. As we gain altitude, we are rewarded with breathtaking views of Mt. Kanjirowa. With the changing scenery, from dense forests to barren highlands this makes the journey more exciting. By the afternoon, we will reach Bagala Phedi, a remote and peaceful campsite nestled at the base of the Bagala Pass. Overnight camp at Bagala Phedi.

Today, we will trek from Bagala Phedi to Gandala Phedi which takes about 7 hours. We will be walking through a mix of uphill and downhill trails. The path mostly takes us across vast grasslands, where we see herds of yaks and sheep grazing peacefully. The open landscapes provide stunning mountain views, and the fresh mountain air makes the hike enjoyable despite the long walk. As we move higher, the terrain becomes more rugged, with fewer trees and more rocky patches. The trail can be challenging at times, but the peaceful surroundings and the sight of grazing animals create a serene atmosphere. By the afternoon, we reach Gandala Phedi. Overnight camp at Gandala Phedi.

Today we will trek from Gandala Phedi to Shey Gompa, which takes about 7 hours. The trail begins with a steady uphill climb as we cross the Gandala Pass, where we are rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. As we descend, the path winds through vast grasslands, where yaks and sheep often graze. Along the way, we can see beautiful Tangtung Lake, its clear waters reflecting the towering peaks around it. We also get to see stunning view of Mt. Kanjirowa, standing tall in the distance. The landscape becomes more remote and peaceful as we approach Shey Gompa, a sacred Buddhist monastery nestled in the mountains. We set up camp here for the night, soaking in the spiritual and serene atmosphere of this ancient site. Overnight camp at Shey Gompa.

Today is a well-deserved rest day at Shey Gompa, allowing us to relax and acclimatize to the altitude. Shey Gompa is a famous and sacred Buddhist monastery, known for its deep spiritual significance and stunning location surrounded by rugged mountains. We can spend the day exploring the monastery, Shey Gompa Cave, we can learn about the local Tibetan Buddhist culture, and interacting with the monks. Nearby, the Crystal Mountain, a pilgrimage site for many Buddhists, adds to the mystical atmosphere. This rest day also helps us recover and prepare for the challenging trek ahead. Overnight camp at Shey Gompa.

Today, we embark on a challenging trek from Shey Gompa to Namagung which takes about 7 hours, crossing the high-altitude Sela La Pass. The day begins with a steady uphill climb, as we ascend through rocky and barren landscapes. Reaching the pass is a rewarding moment, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and deep valleys below. After taking in the scenery, we carefully descend along a rugged trail, passing through remote grasslands and occasional streams. The landscape remains wild and untouched, with a few signs of human settlements along the way. By the afternoon, we will reach Namagung, a small traditional village, where we set up camp for the night, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Dolpo region. Overnight camp at Namagung.

Today we will trek from Namagung to Saldang which takes about 7 hours, following a trail with a mix of uphill and downhill sections. The landscape gradually changes as we move through vast grasslands into dry, desert-like terrain, typical of the Upper Dolpo region. The barren hills and open valleys create a unique, otherworldly atmosphere, with shades of brown, red, and gold stretching across the horizon. Along the way, we may pass small settlements and encounter local herders with their yaks and sheep. The trail can be challenging due to the dry and sometimes windy conditions, but the stunning, wide-open views make it worthwhile. By the afternoon, we will reach Saldang, one of the largest villages in Dolpo, where we set up camp and experience the local Tibetan-influenced culture. Overnight camp at Saldang.

Today we will trek from Saldang to Simengaon takes about 6-7 hours, following a mostly flat trail with some gentle ups and downs. The path winds through the remote highlands of Dolpo, offering stunning views of the surrounding barren hills and rugged terrain. Along the way, we cross several small river streams, where we might see local herders bringing their yaks and sheep for water. The landscape feels peaceful and untouched, with occasional sightings of traditional mud-brick houses and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. The trek is relatively easier compared to previous days, allowing us to enjoy the vast open spaces and quiet beauty of the region. By the afternoon, we arrive at Simengaon, a small, traditional village. Overnight camp at Simengaon.

Today we will trek from Simengaon to Tinjegaon takes about 7 hours, following a mix of uphill and downhill trails. The journey takes us through diverse landscapes, from grassy meadows to dry, desert-like terrain, creating a striking contrast. Along the way, we cross several small river streams, where we might see yaks and goats drinking water. The trail can be challenging at times, with rocky sections and open plains where the wind can be strong. As we gain altitude, the air becomes crisper, and the surroundings more remote, with fewer signs of human settlements. Overnight camp at Tinjegaon.

Today we will trek from Tinjegaon to Keheing Khola takes about 7 hours, following a mix of uphill and downhill trails. The path winds through open grasslands and dry, desert-like terrain, with vast, rugged landscapes stretching in every direction. The remote setting, with its earthy tones and occasional grazing yaks, gives a sense of isolation and tranquility. The trek can be challenging due to the dry conditions, but the breathtaking views of the high-altitude wilderness make it worthwhile. Overnight camp at Keheing Khola.

Today we will trek from Keheing Khola to Charka takes about 7 hours and involves crossing the high-altitude Charka & Mallan Pass (4,830 m). The trail winds through dry, desert-like terrain with rolling hills and rocky paths, making the journey both challenging and rewarding. As we climb towards the pass, the air gets thinner, but the incredible panoramic views of the vast, untouched landscape make the effort worthwhile. After crossing the pass, we descend towards Charka, a remote village surrounded by barren hills, where traditional mud-brick houses and fluttering prayer flags create a unique atmosphere. Overnight camp at Charka.

Today we will trek from Charka to Sangdak takes about 7 hours, following a mix of uphill and downhill trails. As we walk, the landscape remains rugged and remote, with dry, barren hills stretching into the distance. Along the way, we are treated to breathtaking views of towering peaks like Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri, which stand majestically against the sky. Overnight camp at Sangdak.

Today we will trek from Sangdak to Yak Kharka takes about 7 hours, following a mix of uphill and downhill trails. The journey takes us through diverse landscapes, from dry, desert-like terrain to lush grasslands where yaks and sheep graze. Along the way, we cross several small river streams, adding to the rugged beauty of the trail. As we descend to a lower altitude, the air feels thicker, and the surroundings become greener. Overnight camp at Yak Kharka.

Today we will trek from Yak Kharka to Kagbeni takes about 6-7 hours, following a mix of descending trails, river crossings, and scenic ridges. On the way we can see amazing views of the Kali Gandaki River and surrounding mountains. By the afternoon, we will reach Kagbeni.

Kagbeni is a picturesque village in the Kali Gandaki Valley, known as the gateway to Upper Mustang. It features traditional Tibetan-style houses, narrow alleys, and ancient monasteries, offering a unique blend of culture and history. Surrounded by stunning mountain views, it sits along the Kali Gandaki River, making it a peaceful yet historically rich stop for trekkers. Overnight at lodge in Kagbeni.

Today's we will trek from Kagbeni to Jomsom takes about 3 hours, following a relatively easy trail along the Kali Gandaki River. The path is mostly flat and windy, passing through arid landscapes with views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains. As we approach Jomsom, the region becomes more developed, with stone houses, lodges, and small shops. Jomsom is the administrative center of the Mustang region and has an airport, making it a major stop for trekkers. We settle in for the night, enjoying the town's unique blend of mountain culture and modern amenities.
NOTE: It is also possible to drive from Kagbeni – Jomsom which takes about 1 hour. (extra cost)

This day we will have breakfast in early morning and then prepare to fly Pokhara. There is only early morning flight, i.e 6 – 9 am in the morning from Jomsom to Pokhara. We will take 20 minutes flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Stay overnight at the Hotel in Pokhara.

NOTE: Incase flight is cancelled, then another immediate option is to drive from Jomsom – Pokhara (160 km) on same day which takes about 6 hours’ drive

After having breakfast we will return back to Kathmandu by tourist vehicle which takes about 7 hours drive (200 km). Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

This day we will have a free day for shopping and other activities such as Kathmandu city sightseeing etc. Overnight at Hotel

Today is your last day in Kathmandu before departure. At your scheduled departure time, our correspondent will pick you up from the hotel, transfer you to the airport, and bid you farewell with warm hearts.