Upper Dolpo TrekUpper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo Trek

Home of Tibetan Buddhism
  • Duration27 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Activity Trekking/Hiking
  • Max. Altitude 5309 meters/ 17418 feet.
  • Starts Dunai
  • Ends Juphal
  • Group Size 2-20
  • Best Season March to May and September to November
Group Discount Prices
  
2 paxUS$4490
3 - 6 paxUS$4290
7 - 10 paxUS$4090
11 - 15 paxUS$3990
16 - 20 paxUS$3890
Price Per PersonUS$4490All-inclusive services
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Upper Dolpo Trek Highlights
  • Hike to the off-the-beaten-path virgin land
  • A less traveled trekking trail and the greatest place to experience the raw splendor of the dryland
  • Exploring a well-preserved Tibetan culture and its monasteries
  • High-altitude trekking and camping, including three 5000-meter passes
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park and its extraordinary range of flora and fauna
  • Observing the turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake and its magnificent setting

Upper Dolpo Trek Overview

The Upper Dolpo Trek courses through a mystical land of Buddhist monasteries and a Tibetan culture largely untouched by the world outside the region's borders. A hike to the area presents a considerable logistical exercise in light of the almost non-existent infrastructure for dealing with trekking parties, but the benefits of such splendid isolation are many for the intrepid visitor willing to deal with the route's numerous challenges.

The austere landscapes and villages strike a unique chord of rustic authenticity that speaks to a timelessness enveloping Dolpo like a protective blanket, with ancient Buddhist and Bon Po traditions delicately interwoven with shamanistic influences to create a local culture unlike any other in Nepal. To journey through the region is to be touched by experiences and sights that will live long in the memory of the few who are fortunate enough to pass through the area.

The Upper Dolpo Region Trek to Shey Gompa encompasses an extraordinary journey to one of the most rugged and remote parts of the country, with landscapes that hark to the sparse Tibetan plateau to the north. Built in 1655 and situated at the base of the sacred Crystal Mountain (also known as Ribo Drugta), the monastery of Shey Gompa constitutes a pilgrimage site of some significance to the people of western Nepal. En route, the trail leads through some of the most consistently high trekking territory to be found, with three passes stretching up over 5000 meters in height Nagdalo La (5350m), Shey La (5010m), and Jeng La (5220m)—together with long stretches lingering at altitudes over 4000 meters, guaranteeing many a cold night during the trek. Such challenges of environment and terrain are made for the hardy trekker willing to meet them head-on in the full knowledge that the ultimate and highly unique rewards on offer far outweigh the considerable effort.

If that isn't enough, the Upper Dolpo also offers another of Nepal's crown jewels, Shey Phoksundo National Park, and the spectacularly beautiful Phoksundo Lake, a serene body of water ringed by precipitous mountains and forests that are home to some of the Himalaya's rarest animal species, including the fabled snow leopard.

Upper Dolpo Adventure Trek Difficulty

The trek to the Upper Dolpo region is a challenging journey comprising rugged and remote terrain with trails that pass through steep ascents, rocky paths, and high mountain passes like the Kang La (5,360 meters) and Saldang La (5,200 meters). These high-altitude crossings are not only physically exhausting but also test trekkers with thinning air and potential altitude sickness. Likewise, this trek demands long trekking days of up to 8 hours on uneven, narrow, and exposed trails. 

On the other hand, isolation and limited infrastructure also add to its difficulty. Accommodations are sparse, with many sections requiring camping, which adds logistical complexity. Moving on, weather conditions can be unpredictable, especially in high passes, where snow and strong winds can make navigation even more difficult.

Best Time To Trek Upper Dolpo Region

To make this adventure to the Upper Dolpo region successful and enjoyable, it is essential to choose the favorable season. The ideal trekking seasons that we recommend for this journey are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). 

Autumn is arguably the best time to embark on the Upper Dolpo RegionTrek as it offers stable weather conditions, crisp air, and moderate temperature. Often the temperature during this season is cool and comfortable offering favorable trekking conditions. Usually, the daytime temperature during this season ranges from 5°C to 10°C  at the most. Likewise, the nighttime temperature ranges from 0°C to 5°C at lower elevations but it may be around 0°C to -15°C at higher altitude levels. 

Additionally, the Autumn season adds a vibrant cultural experience to the atmosphere with the festive mood, providing you an opportunity to witness the greatest festival of Nepal, Dashain and Tihar. In the meantime, the skies are clear offering breathtaking views of the snow-clad peaks and the landscapes. 

Spring, from March to May is another peak season for Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek. This particular season brings the best beauty to the landscapes with lush greenery and blooming seasonal wildflowers on otherwise arid terrain. Furthermore, the temperature is moderate with clear skies and relatively predictable weather. Typically, the daytime temperature during this season ranges from 10°C to 15°C. Likewise, the nighttime temperature ranges from 0°C to -5°C at lower elevations but it may be around 0°C to -10°C at higher altitude levels. 

Interestingly enough, the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek is also doable during the Monsoon / Summer season as this trail falls under the rain shadow area of the Dhaulagiri ranges. Indeed, the temperature is ideal and unlike other trails of Nepal, it is relatively dry. 

One of the major highlight points of the trek during the Monsoon season will be the Yarshagumba collection by the locals. Generally, the daytime temperature during this season ranges from 8°C to 12°C. Likewise, the nighttime temperature ranges from 5°C to 10°C at lower elevations but it may be around 5°C to 8°C at higher altitude levels. 

Now, as we speak of the Winter season, the story is entirely different. Due to the combination of harsh weather, dangerously low temperatures at campsites, and heavy snowfall leading to blocked paths, we do not recommend trekking to Upper Dolpo Region to anyone during this season. 

Indeed, these challenges make navigation next to impossible, and since this trekking route takes you to high-altitude passes, the path might be entirely closed. During Winter, the daytime temperature ranges from -5°C to -10°C. Likewise, the nighttime temperature ranges from -5°C to -10°C at lower elevations but it may be around -15°C to -20°C at higher altitude levels. 

Overall, if you have been planning for the Upper Dolpo Trek, organize your itinerary during the Spring or Autumn season for the best experience.

Upper Dolpo Region Trekking Permit Cost

Upper Dolpo is a restricted area where the required permits can be obtained with a minimum of two trekkers. The relatively high permit fee limits the number of trekkers in the area and thus contributes to Upper Dolpo's preeminence as one of Nepal's most exclusive and memorable experiences. Trekkers need three different trekking permits for the Upper Dolpo Trek, such as:

  • Lower Dolpo Special Trekking Permit: It costs 20 dollars per week and 5 dollars per additional day thereafter per person.
  • Upper Dolpo Special Trekking Permit: It costs 500 dollars for a minimum of 10 days and 50 dollars per additional day per person.
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park entry permit: It costs 3000 rupees (23 dollars) per person.

Booking And Payment With Nepal Trekking Experts

To confirm your journey with us, please send us an email with a copy of your passport, a passport-size photo, and travel details (if available), as well as a 10% deposit using our online payment gateway. The balance of the payment can be paid when you arrive. Please contact our local specialists now for additional information. 

In addition, you can also check out our Upper Mustang Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, Tsum Valley Manaslu Circuit Trek, Nar Phu Valley Trek, etc.

Useful Information

Tips For A Successful Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek

  • Plan acclimatization days in your itinerary to adapt to high altitudes.
  • Train at least 5 to 6 weeks prior to the actual trek incorporating exercises for core, flexibility, and strength. 
  • Carry warm, layered clothing, including a down jacket, thermal wear, and windproof outer layers.
  • Invest in sturdy, waterproof trekking boots with good grip for rocky and uneven trails.
  • Hire a guide and porter for a smooth experience. 
  • Plan your trek during spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October) for the best weather and trail conditions.
  • Stay updated on weather forecasts during the trek to plan high-pass crossings safely.

Transportation For Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek

The journey to the Upper Dolpo starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj followed by another short flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal. During this flight, you will see the clear transition of the landscapes below from the bustling city to the sprawling plains of western Nepal. 

Moving forward, the flight to Juphal offers breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan foothills and the vast, untouched wilderness of the region. Hence, these flights provide access to the remote Lower Dolpo region as well as set short aerial views of the breathtaking adventure that awaits them in the heart of the Himalayas. Well, the cost of these flights amounts to approximately $335 per person depending upon the season you are traveling in. 

Meals During Upper Dolpo Adventure Trek

Meals during the Upper Dolpo Trek are a unique and integral part of the adventure. Since the trek reflects a self-reliant nature, the meals are prepared and provided by the trek’s support team, unlike the tea houses or lodges in other trekking trails. It indeed adds a luxurious touch despite the trek's remote setting.

Here, carrying all the food by yourself seems impractical, hence, the group you travel with will have well-equipped porters who will handle the transportation of essential food items and cooking supplies throughout the journey.  One of the significant factors of the Upper Dolpo Trek is the focus we put on your health. During the journey, you will have a dedicated team of personal cooks with kitchen helpers, ensuring each meal is prepared with attention to your dietary restrictions. Even in such a remote and rugged setting, you will get to experience the luxury of enjoying a range of meals that fit your specific needs.

While the cost of meals during this trek is much higher compared to classic routes, the investment is totally worth it. In fact, you can refill your plates as much as you want. The menus for the trek are usually set in the itinerary and the meals usually include Dal Bhat Tarkari (rice, lentil soup, and curry), pasta, Tibetan bread, potatoes, stews, and soups, among many others. Yes, the hearty meals during the trek are indeed a delightful point. Additionally, we recommend you pack some light snacks yourself. It might be candy bars, nuts, or anything small you desire that will help you keep going. 

As for the drinks, you will be able to enjoy quite a few varieties such as black tea, instant coffee, milk tea, green tea, and juices. Here, the team will also provide you with boiled water to drink. Furthermore, you can also get drinking water from the Himalayan stream but you should always carry water purification tablets. 

Accommodation During Upper Dolpo Adventure Trek

Unlike any other trek, the trek to Upper Dolpo offers an immersive experience, as it revolves around camping in the heart of the Himalayas rather than staying in traditional teahouses. It is a self-reliant trek as you will have to carry a tent for yourself. So, one of the highlighting aspects of this trek is sleeping in nature. You will set your camp in some of the most beautiful pristine and remote areas of the region. In fact, each night you will find yourself blanketed below the stars which will be an adventurous experience of your life. 

During this camping journey, Sherpas will play a crucial role in maintaining safety at night. Especially while camping in remote areas, they will vigilantly guard the tents at night, providing you peace of mind that the camping experience remains as secure as possible. Furthermore, the toilets are also portable which is often carried by the porter of your group. They are simple yet practical setups offering the basic facility. Generally, the toilets are made by digging a hole in the ground for your business and it is surrounded by the tent for privacy. 

Altogether, the accommodation during this trek has its own perks. Usually, to ensure a sense of bonding among the group, the guides and porters organize nightly celebrations by sharing meals and stories around the campfire.

Telephone, Internet, And Charging In Upper Dolpo Region

The Upper Dolpo Region Trek is all about solitude and a chance to disconnect from the outer world while enjoying the immersive natural beauty of the region. Before embarking on this journey, it is crucial to understand that digital connection in this region is only limited to the lower region. Well, as you might have expected, yes, the Internet connection in the Upper Dolpo Region is nonexistent. You will not find any cellular networks or wifi hotspots during the high altitude areas. Additionally, the telephone facilities are limited to the lower region only. Some of the villages in lower altitudes have a connection but it is also not guaranteed. 

For emergency connection and purposes, they do have satellite phones though. While the lack of connection to the computer world may seem daunting, you should try to fully engage with the nature and culture of the region. Moving on, the charging facilities in the Upper Dolpo are also unknown. As a matter of fact you will not get electronic charging hence, you should carry solar-powered chargers for your needs. Altogether, you should also bring spare batteries or portable power banks to keep essential devices charged.

Porter

As trekkers on the remote and rugged trails of the Upper Dolpo region, porters are a crucial part of the trek. From carrying your personal baggage to the bulk of the supplies, including camping gear, food, and other essential items, porters are literally the foundation for a successful journey. While hiring a porter for the journey, it is always best to choose a local as they have a deep sense of local knowledge and cultural insight into the trek. Additionally, their familiarity with the environment will offer invaluable guidance and support. For this trek, porters are not only vital for the smooth operation of the trek but also play a key role in supporting the local economy. Since most of their income comes from being a porter, you will also be contributing to support their livelihood. 

Travel Insurance

We can not emphasize enough to buy travel insurance during the Upper Dolpo Trek! Given the trek's demanding conditions and the remote nature of the Dolpo region, having comprehensive travel insurance can be a lifesaver. For any emergency medical services, unforeseen circumstances, or evacuation needs, having travel insurance makes a vast difference. While you buy one of such plans, it is important to check the fine print of the policy as it is surprising how many travel insurances might not cover the aspect you need. 

When it comes to selecting an insurance plan, make sure it covers high-altitude trekking and remote locations. Additionally, this coverage should also address both medical expenses and the cost of emergency treatment or evacuation if required. Overall, you should verify that your policy includes critical aspects to avoid unexpected expenses and ensure that you receive prompt medical attention if needed.

Trekking gear Checklist

Clothing

  • Raincoat, poncho, or combination jacket/trousers
  • One down jacket/Gore-Tex Jacket
  • Windproof trousers
  • Two pairs of hiking pants (depending on the duration of the trek)
  • One pair of shorts
  • Three to four T-shirts (depending on the duration of the trek)
  • One fleece jacket
  • Two pairs of base layers
  • Three pairs of hiking socks and a couple of pairs of thicker socks (merino wool)
  • Two pairs of gloves—one pair light fleece, the other waterproof/windproof
  • Undergarments

Footwear

  • Trekking boots (water resistance, ankle supportive)
  • Flip-flops for leisure time around camp or one pair of sneakers

Other Equipment

  • Sunglass, sunscreen, lip balm, sun hat, woolen/fleece hat, first aid kit, Swiss army knife(optional), luggage cover, headlamp, trekking poles, gaiter (optional), micro crampons (optional), water purification tablets or steripen, extra batteries, adapter, power bank, water bottles/camel bag/Thermos, washing powder/multi-purpose soap, shampoo, a small towel, antiseptic hand wash, toiletries, female hygiene products, wet wipes, mosquito spray (optional), whistle, earplugs, reading books, playing cards/chess
  • Sleeping bag rated to minus 15/20 degrees Celsius (extreme temperature) depending on trekking route and season
  • Backpack (60 liters)
  • Daypack (25 to 30 liter)

Nepalese Currency and the Payment:

The currency of Nepal is the rupee. The ideal currencies for exchange are those of the USA, Australia, Great Britain, Canada, and Singapore, as well as the Euro, any of which can be readily exchanged in either Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Credit and debit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted in major tourist-class hotels, restaurants, airlines, and larger stores in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan, Pokhara, etc. A surcharge of 3.5% is typically levied on all purchases or payments.

ATMs are also very common in Kathmandu and Pokhara, with Thamel being a particular area of focus for their use. Some ATMs only allow a daily maximum of Rs 10,000 to be withdrawn, while others allow for as much as Rs 35,000. A charge of USD 4 is usually applied per transaction, on top of which your bank may also apply a fee of its own.

Can I get an on-arrival visa in Nepal?

On arrival in Nepal, you can obtain the requisite visa at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, or you can choose the alternative of applying for it at the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate in your home country before departure. The visa is also available at land-based points of entry such as Birgunj, Kakarbhitta, Bhairawa, Belhiya, Nepalgunj, Dhangadi, and Mahendranagar. The Kodari Pass is the access point from Tibet where the visa can be obtained.

While you can use different modes of payment at the visa fee counter, we advise you to bring cash in the following currencies: US dollars, euros, Swiss francs, pound sterling, Australian dollars, Canadian dollars, Hong Kong dollars, Singapore dollars, and Japanese yen. Credit card payments are also available nowadays.

As per a recent update, the visa fee costs you the following amounts:

  • Multiple entries for 15 days—USD 30 or equivalent
  • Multiple entries for 30 days—USD 50 or equivalent
  • Multiple entries for 90 days—USD 125 or equivalent
  • You should also have a minimum of six months of validity remaining on your passport.
  • Visa extensions are available from the offices of Nepal Immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

For more details, please go through the Nepal Immigration website or contact us.

Itinerary
  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Accommodation:3 star hotel

Welcome at the airport and transfer to your hotel. An introduction to your trekking program then the rest of the day at your leisure to enjoy the sights, sounds, and culture of Kathmandu.

  • Max. Altitude:158m/518ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:3 star hotel

After having a meeting with a guide and preparing trekking permits and trekking gear, we take an afternoon flight to Nepalgunj and stay overnight.

  • Max. Altitude:2140m/7021ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

Early in the morning, take another flight to Juphal and then start our trek in the region with a short hike to Dunai along the Thuli Bheri River. If time permits, there is plenty to see within the town, including a stupa and monastery.

  • Max. Altitude:2678m/8786ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

The day begins with a leisurely hike to Sulighat, the checkpoint for entering Shey Phoksundo National Park.  From Sulighat the trail leads towards the village of Kageni and on through a temperate region of dense forest, passing through numerous small hamlets en route until we reach Shangta, where we cross over the confluence of Phoksundo Khola (river) and Maiaba Khola and head upstream to Chhepka, our rest stop for the night.

  • Max. Altitude:3130m/10269ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

A day of gradual climbing along the tree-lined trail, with occasional glimpses of the visual smorgasbord to come of the Himalayan ranges. Our day finally concludes with the arrival at Chunuwar.

  • Max. Altitude:3641m/11946ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

The trek leads away on a steady climb to the alpine regions of the trail and the densely forested slopes and mountains that make up the stunning amphitheater enclosing the turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake (3600m). The setting is so impossibly beautiful that it looks as if it sprang from the canvas of an over-imaginative artist — yet it's as real as the mountain air you breathe in while looking down on the sublime scene. Our day finishes at the village of Ringmogaun, where we spend the night close to the lake.

  • Max. Altitude:3641m/11946ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

A full day to explore the surroundings of the glorious lake waters. The medieval  Bon monastery of Tshowa, built over 900 years ago, stands by the shoreline and offers up further opportunities to explore.

  • Max. Altitude:3750m/12303ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

The day starts with a steady climb along the path carved into the Cliffside overlooking the lake, looking to all intents and purposes like some precipitous trail straight from the fertile imagination of Tolkien, winding ever onward and up to an amazing eagle's eye view of Phoksundo down below.   After pausing at a rocky overlook to farewell the glorious view we head away through a forest trail to Phoksundo Khola Camp, our rest stop for the night.

  • Max. Altitude:4700m/15420ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

We climb steadily on a trail hugging the meandering path of the Tuk Kyaksa River, alternating sides as we hike along to the steady accompaniment of the turbid waters rushing by.  A gorge opens up before us as we keep ascending, ushering us gradually to our high altitude eerie, Nagdalo High camp.

  • Max. Altitude:5350m/17552ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

Our eighth day on the trail is one of the trip's highlights as we make our way to legendary Shey Gompa.  The region is barren and semi-arid, yet no less scenic for its uninterrupted views and broad landscapes. The path leads on and upwards to the pass of Nagdalo La, an achievement in itself as we pause to celebrate the moment amidst the streaming prayer flags and gorgeous outlook towards the sacred mountain of Mt. Kailash lying on the border between India and Tibet. A steep descent leads to a sweeping valley where the mystical monastery of 800-year-old Shey Gompa sits atop a gentle grass-green slope overlooking an alluvial plain, the vivid red paint of its structures standing out as clearly as the numerous pairs of eyes painted in white on the sides. Here we stay for the night.

  • Max. Altitude:5350m/17552ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

A day to relax, explore, and indulge in the peaceful scenery and harmonious surroundings of the remote monastery.

  • Max. Altitude:5094m/16713ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

A two-hour hike leads us away from Shey Gompa and over the pass of Shey La, a further achievement to chalk up during our Dolpo adventure, with incredible vistas towards Mustang, Tibet, and Mt. Kailash as a bonus. From there the trail drops markedly until it reaches the day's destination of Namgung Gumpa, yet another scenically sited monastery that welcomes us with the same warmth and grace as Shey Gompa.

  • Max. Altitude:3770m/12369ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

The trail descends even further as we follow the Namga Khola downstream through Yak pastures and serene mountain views until we reach the picturesque village of Saldang and its monasteries.

  • Max. Altitude:3770m/12369ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

The feature of the day's effort is a memorable day hike to 1000-year-old Yangjer Gumpa, the region's most elaborate monastery, with numerous chortens of various sizes adding to its striking appearance. After exploring the monastery and pausing to pay our respects we return to Saldang.

  • Max. Altitude:4210m/13812ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

The trail leads out towards Saldang Lek along the banks of the Rapyha Khola and through the undulating and arid hills leading to Khoma La pass. From there it's a fairly steady descent to the village of Khomagaun.

  • Max. Altitude:3885m/12746ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

The trail heads out over Simen La, then heads steadily downhill through a broad valley dotted sporadically with trees and isolated hamlets, with small rock walls carving out the arid region here and there for sporadic agricultural use. Our day comes to an end upon arrival at Shimengaun, where we set up camp for the evening.

  • Max. Altitude:4110m/13484ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

Another day follows the natural path of a waterway, trailing along the banks of the Panjyang Khola.  The journey is a scenically and culturally rewarding one with numerous small villages and monasteries dotting a peaceful landscape set amidst the local hills and mountains.

  • Max. Altitude:4210m/13812ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

The trail heads out again by following Panjyang Khola once more towards Chhamdang, then on through arid shrublands to Thalum Khola and the village of Yak Kharka.

  • Max. Altitude:4240m/13911ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

A bridge over Sulun Khola leads us away to the morning's march upstream to Choila La (5040m), the last of the 5000-meter passes on our itinerary and one that's arguably the toughest of the trek due to the steep ascent. We pause at the top to regain our breath and take in the scenery before dropping down markedly to Tokyu.

  • Max. Altitude:3944m/12940ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

The trail from Tokyu leads gently downhill through terraced fields and green pastures to Dho Tarap, with plenty of time left over in the afternoon to explore its many charms, as well as to observe the traditional Tibetan lifestyles of its friendly inhabitants, who still trade with their ancient homeland to the north via their Yak caravans. Throw in a visit to the Gompa, the maze of fascinating laneways, and the breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and Dho Tarap is the kind of place you could easily spend the better part of a week exploring.

  • Max. Altitude:3755m/12320ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

A series of small villages greet us on our journey through the Tarap Valley, with numerous chortens and the occasional Gompa marking the trail through the scenic landscape. The Tarap Khola guides our passage for much of the way as the trail passes backward and forwards across the river, leading us onward into a narrow gorge and our campsite at Ghyamgar.

  • Max. Altitude:3440m/11280ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent2540

The precipitous trail continues through the looming walls of the gorge while alternating from one side of the river to the other, eventually belling out into a wide expanse that takes us to Chhyugar for our next camp.

  • Max. Altitude:2540m/8333ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

Today we begin our day by crossing a bridge and following the Tarap Khola as it merges with the larger Thuli Bheri, flowing away into the unsurpassed white waters that many kayaking aficionados consider among the best and most beautiful stretches in the world — with any luck we might even see some kayakers braving the powerful and relentless rapids. At the end of an exhilarating day, we call into the stunning village of Tarakot and its multilayered construction and external ladders connecting each floor.

  • Max. Altitude:2140m/7021ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

The penultimate day on the trail takes us further along the banks of the Thuli Bheri River through woodlands and terraced fields to the familiar village of Dunai.

  • Max. Altitude:2475m/8120ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent

A short day of trekking takes us back to Juphal on an easy and relaxed stretch that lets us ease out the kinks before pulling in to celebrate the end of the journey and toast the achievement of completing one of Nepal's most demanding and rewarding treks.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast

Local transport returns us to Nepalgunj, where we catch a flight back to Kathmandu.

    Farewell and drop-off at the airport, or the opportunity to join another of our programs.

    Got a question about this tour?

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    Note

    The above itinerary is a guideline. If you're not satisfied or have an alternative plan please feel free to discuss it with us.

    What's Included
    Cost Includes
    • Complimentary airport picks-up and drops-off
    • Complimentary welcome dinner
    • Two-night stay in Kathmandu, including breakfast.
    • All necessary trekking permits, such as those for Shey Phoksundo National Park, the Upper Dolpo special permit, the TIMS card, and so on, are required
    • Connecting flights to and from Kathmandu, Juphal, and Nepalgunj
    • All accommodation during the trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • A cup of tea or coffee with the meal
    • If and when available, fresh fruit should be provided every day.
    • Complimentary duffel bag, agency T-shirt, trekking map, sleeping bag
    • Professional English-speaking government-registered and first-aid trained local guide
    • First-aid kit
    • Staff insurance, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
    • Rescue arrangements, if necessary
    • Agency service charge and government tax or VAT
    • Certificate of Achievement
    Cost Excludes
    • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft, etc.
    • Sightseeing costs in the city (temples, monasteries, etc.)
    • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, wifi, etc.
    • Tips for staff
    Dates & Availability
    Start:WednesdayDec 25, 2024
    End:MondayJan 20, 2025
    PriceUS$4490
    StatusGuaranteed
    Private Date

    Note

    Are you satisfied with the fixed departure dates? If not, do not worry! We are more than happy to organize private vs. group joining on any dates you prefer. Let's contact the local experts now.

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