Upper Dolpo: A Remote Himalayan Odyssey

Upper Dolpo, situated in the western region of Nepal, is a remote and pristine area known for its rugged landscapes, ancient Tibetan culture, and untouched natural beauty. Tucked away in the Himalayas, the Upper Dolpo trek offers a truly off-the-beaten-path experience for adventurous trekkers seeking to explore a hidden gem of Nepal.

The trek to Upper Dolpo starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by another scenic flight to Juphal, a small airstrip nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. From Juphal, trekkers begin their journey through remote trails that wind through deep gorges, barren cliffs, and high mountain passes.

One of the major highlights of the Upper Dolpo trek is the opportunity to witness the unique Tibetan culture that thrives in the region. The Dolpo people, known as Dolpa-pa, have a rich cultural heritage deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. As trekkers traverse through ancient villages such as Ringmo, Saldang, and Shey Gompa, they can witness the traditional mud-brick houses, monasteries adorned with prayer flags, and locals dressed in traditional attire, providing an authentic glimpse into the Dolpo way of life.

The rugged landscapes of Upper Dolpo offer trekkers a glimpse of raw and untouched natural beauty. The region is home to Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal’s largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including rare species such as the elusive snow leopard, blue sheep, and Himalayan musk deer. The centerpiece of the park is Phoksundo Lake, a shimmering turquoise lake that captivates trekkers with its tranquil beauty.

The Upper Dolpo trek also presents trekkers with the opportunity to cross high mountain passes, such as the Numa La Pass (5,190 meters) and the Baga La Pass (5,070 meters). These challenging yet rewarding crossings offer breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Dhaulagiri and Kanjiroba. The pristine alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and dramatic landscapes make for a photographer’s paradise.

Another unique aspect of the Upper Dolpo trek is the chance to visit the ancient Shey Gompa, a significant spiritual site in the region. The monastery, believed to be over 800 years old, houses ancient Buddhist scriptures, intricate murals, and sacred artifacts. It holds great religious importance for both the local Dolpo people and Tibetan pilgrims who visit the monastery each year.

The Upper Dolpo trek is considered a challenging trek that requires physical fitness, trekking experience, and proper acclimatization. The region’s remote and rugged nature means facilities along the trail are limited, and trekkers need to be self-sufficient and well-prepared with necessary supplies. Hiring an experienced guide is highly recommended to navigate the trail and ensure safety.

In conclusion, the Upper Dolpo trek offers intrepid trekkers a chance to embark on a remote Himalayan odyssey, immersing themselves in the ancient Tibetan culture, exploring untouched landscapes, and experiencing the spiritual beauty of the region. This off-the-beaten-path adventure is a true gem of Nepal, offering a unique and rewarding trekking experience that will leave trekkers with unforgettable memories of the rugged and enchanting Upper Dolpo region.

Trekking in Dolpo region

Group size of the Trek
Minimum 2 person
Maximum 10 person

Grade : Hard/ strenuous

Elevation: Max. 5115 Meters. (Kangmara La)

Accommodation :  Tented Camp

Food: Continental 

Equipment List

The requirement of equipment is diffrent for each trek. these are common requirment of personnel things for most of our treks. Please feel free to ask for advice we will provide you the best suggestion.

Clothing and Equipment Check List

1. Pair of T-shirts and half pants
2. Fleece jacket and warm Trousers
3. Raincoats & water proof pants
4. Down jacket
5. Thermal underwear
6. Windproof jacket
7. Fleece/wool warm hat
8. Baseball hat or sun hat
9. Snow & sun  glasses
10. Fleece gloves
11. Socks – 3/4 pairs
12. Socks- woolen
13. Trekking shoes
14. Light sport shoes
15. Small rucksack for day pack
16. Water-bottle (metal )
17. Kit Bag medium size
18. Trekking poles (optional)
19. Sleeping bag down ( -5-10 degree)
20. Flash light & batteries

Personal things

1. Small kit bag (valuable things can put inside , pocket knife )
2. Sun Cream & lip care cream
3. Moist towels for personal hygiene