Trekking in the upper Dolpo region has been found to be an exceptionally memorable trekking experience for every visitor to Nepal. This tranquil region of western Nepal is a symbol of rare natural beauty and home to an undisturbed trans-Himalayan culture. Thanks to its remote location as the ecosystem of this place is also well-preserved. This is the very place where you will get to see a wide range of rain shadow landscapes and glimpse the fascinating views of the majestic mountains. And, if you are lucky enough, you may also get a chance to see the intriguing snow leopards and the Himalayan griffon, besides the Buddhist monasteries, wild flowers, common herbal plants and the Himalayan blue sheep.

This region has been protected by Shey-Phoksundo National Park and it lies in the northern part of Dhaulagiri range adjoining the Tibetan Plateau. The views of Phoksundo Lake, Dhualagiri massif and Kanjiroba peak is one of the most satisfying moments of this trek. Also, a visit to the Phoksumdo Gompa, which is devoted to Bonpo religioin can be a memorable experience you can collect from this trek.

The unique culture and captivating beauty of this region will reveal why the author of the famed book “Honey Hunter of Nepal”, Eric Valli created the movie “Caravan” which was nominated for the prominent Oscar award. This trek is perfectly suitable for those trekkers who are fit and can face the challenge of the Himalayan wilderness. As you need special permit to trek in this region due to its restriction, not so many visitors have been in this region. This trek is quite hard as compared to other treks due to the high passes. But, the results of all hard efforts is really rewarding as you will get complete satisfaction by getting the opportunity to explore it.

Upper Dolpo Trekking Highlights
Trekking Duration : 18 days
Difficulty level : Strenuous
Maximum altitude : 4702m
Trekking style : Camping
Best season : April-May, Sep-Oct

Suggested Itineraries
Day 01: Drive or fly from Kathmandu-Nepalgunj
Day 02: Nepalgunj-Juphal, Trek to Dunai (2150m)
Day 03: Dunai-Shyanta (2520m)
Day 04: Shyanta-Rachi (2940m)
Day 05: Rachi-Phoksundo (3728m)
Day 06: Phoksundo-Sallaghari (3756m)
Day 07: Sallaghari-Yak Kharka (3855m)
Day 08: Yak Kharka-Shey Gompa (4160m)
Day 09: Shey Gompa-Saldang (3770m)
Day 10: Saldang-Yak Kharka (3965m)
Day 11: Yak Kharka-Thaksema (4702m)
Day 12: Thaksema-Dhotarap (3944m)
Day 13: Dhotarap-River side (3756m)
Day 14: River side-Odar (3475m)
Day 15: Odar-Eklebhatti (2970m)
Day 16: Eklebhatti-Dunai
Day 17: Dunai-Juphal
Day 18: Juphal-Nepalgunj, Drive or fly back to Kathmandu