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3 Star Hotel, Tented Camp and Guest House
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Guided
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Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
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Visa Master card
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Private Vehicle and Airlinc
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5-7 hours
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Kathmandu
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Kathmandu
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5350m
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10
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63
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2 - 30
Upper Dolpo Trek Overview
Upper Dolpo Trek
Upper Dolpo region, though remote and unexplored, offers something for everyone, even those not inclined towards high-altitude trekking. Reflecting the essence of the Tibetan plateau, it remains pristine and rugged, devoid of modern influences and tourism infrastructure.
One of its highlights is the ancient Shey Gompa monastery, a testament to the rich heritage of Tibetan Buddhism. The region is also known for the hunt of Yarchgumba, attracting trekkers seeking natural and cultural beauty amidst peace and tranquility.
Starting from the small airfield at Jufal, the journey leads through scattered settlements, lush forests, and diverse flora and fauna towards the mesmerizing Shey Phoksundo Lake. As we ascend through high passes like Nagdala La, Sela La, and Jyanta La, the landscape transforms, offering breathtaking views of mountains and wilderness.
This isolated wilderness is nestled in the rain shadow of towering peaks like Dhaulagiri and Gurja Himal, offering a high chance of encountering rare wildlife such as snow leopards, Himalayan blue sheep, and various bird species.
The Kang-la pass, connecting Phoksundo valley and Shey Gompa, stands as the highest point of the trek, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding landscapes. Visiting Shey Gompa is a profound experience, immersed in the serenity and charm of the wilderness.
The Upper Dolpo trek is an adventurous journey through the remote landscape of western Nepal, tracing ancient salt trading routes and encountering picturesque lakes, high passes, and majestic mountains. It is a journey enriched with the ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, embodied in artistic monasteries and the traditional lifestyles of local ethnic communities, all preserved in their pristine form.
About Weather:
- Spring (April to June): Spring is one of the best times for trekking in Dolpo. The weather is generally mild, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. The spring season brings blooming flowers and lush greenery, enhancing the scenic beauty of the region.
- Autumn (September to November): Another optimal trekking period, autumn in Dolpo offers clear skies, stable weather conditions, and moderate temperatures. The crisp mountain air and vibrant autumn colors make it a popular choice among trekkers.
- Winter (December to February): Winter in Dolpo brings cold temperatures and frosty conditions, making it challenging for trekking. However, for passionate and experienced trekkers, winter trekking can offer a unique and adventurous experience amidst snow-capped landscapes. It’s important to be well-prepared with proper gear and clothing for sub-zero temperatures.
- Summer (June to August): The summer months in Dolpo are characterized by monsoon rains, which can make trekking difficult due to slippery trails and leeches. However, for those seeking solitude and willing to endure the occasional downpour, summer trekking is still possible. The lush greenery and fewer crowds can be appealing for some adventurers.
Food and accommodation are essential aspects of the Upper Dolpo trekking experience, ensuring comfort and sustenance throughout your journey:
- Camping Food: Your meals will primarily consist of camping food prepared by experienced team members accompanying you on the trek. Expect a variety of dishes including soups, noodles, dalbhat (a traditional Nepali meal with rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), pasta, and seasonal vegetables. These dishes are not only delicious but also designed to meet your nutritional requirements, providing the energy needed for trekking in high altitudes.
- Tented Camps: Most nights will be spent at tented camps either set up by local communities or arranged by your trekking crew. These camps offer clean and cozy accommodations, providing a comfortable resting place after a day of trekking. Sleeping inside sleeping bags adds to the adventure and offers a unique experience of camping in the Himalayas.
- Tea Houses: While trekking through Upper Dolpo, you may come across tea houses, though they are relatively scarce in this remote region. Depending on the availability and the volume of visitors, your trekking company may or may not be able to arrange rooms at these guesthouses. However, even without tea houses, the camping experience allows you to immerse yourself fully in the natural beauty and tranquility of the Himalayan wilderness.
Highlights
- Picturesque Landscape: Upper Dolpo boasts breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, with rugged terrain, deep valleys, and snow-capped mountains forming a stunning backdrop throughout the trek.
- Pristine Buddhist Culture: Experience the rich Buddhist culture and traditional lifestyle of the Dolpo people, who have preserved their customs and rituals for centuries, adding a unique cultural dimension to the trek.
- Cinematic Location: Upper Dolpo has gained international recognition as the filming location for the Oscar-nominated movie "Himalayas" and the inspiration behind the acclaimed book "The Himalayan Leopard," providing a cinematic ambiance to the journey.
- Shey Phoksundo Lake: Explore the tranquil beauty of Shey Phoksundo Lake, often referred to as Nepal's deepest lake. Its crystal-clear waters surrounded by rugged cliffs and pristine wilderness create a serene and mesmerizing atmosphere.
- High Mountain Passes: Challenge yourself by crossing high mountain passes like Mara La Pass (5115 m) and Nagdala La Pass (5353 m). These exhilarating crossings offer panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and valleys, showcasing the raw beauty of the region.
- Pristine Wilderness: Immerse yourself in the untouched wilderness of Nepal as you trek through Upper Dolpo. Encounter diverse flora and fauna, including rare wildlife like the snow leopard, blue sheep, and Himalayan musk deer, in their natural habitat.
- Experience Scarcity: Gain insights into the lives of the local communities living in remote villages amidst scarcity and harsh environmental conditions. Their resilience and resourcefulness in the face of adversity offer valuable lessons and a deeper appreciation for life's essentials.



