The Upper Dolpo Trek is perhaps the most exclusive and remote trekking experience in Nepal. Located in the rain shadow of the Dhaulagiri massif, this region is a high-altitude desert that mirrors the Tibetan Plateau. It is famous for the turquoise Phoksundo Lake, the mystical Crystal Mountain, and a...
Transfer to hotel and group introduction.
Final permit processing (requires original passports) and gear check.
Afternoon flight to the western plains of Nepal. Overnight in a hotel.
Mountain flight to Juphal. Begin the trek with a 3-hour walk to the district headquarters.
Follow the Bheri River and then the Phoksundo River through lush forests.
Walk through cedar forests. The trail offers the first view of the massive Phoksundo waterfall.
A steep climb brings you to the edge of the turquoise lake and the village of Ringmo.
Explore Ringmo village and visit the Twawa Gompa (Bon-po monastery) by the lake.
Walk along the famous "Devil’s Trail" (cut into the cliffside) to reach the northern shore of the lake.
A steady climb through a glacial valley toward the base of the Kang La pass.
A challenging climb to the pass for views of the Tibetan plateau, followed by a descent to the mystical Shey Gompa.
Known as the "spiritual heart of Dolpo," visit the monastery and observe the Crystal Mountain.
Cross another high pass with views of the arid, colorful Dolpo landscape.
Descend into the largest village of the Inner Dolpo region, situated on a high plateau.
Follow the Nang Khola north to visit one of the most remote monasteries near the Tibetan border.
Return through the valley and head toward the next trading post.
A short but steep day to prepare for the final major pass of the circuit.
Stunning views of the Dhaulagiri massif from the pass before descending into the Tarap Valley.
Reach one of the highest permanent human settlements in the world.
Explore the numerous gompas and experience the local culture of the "Dhopas."
Begin the long descent out of the high plateau through narrow, dramatic gorges.
Continue descending along the river on a trail built into the rock face.
Reach the historic fortress village surrounded by terraced fields.
The final walk back to the airstrip. Celebration dinner with the crew.
Morning flight back to the capital. Afternoon free for rest or shopping.
Click an itinerary day on the left to focus the map.
The Nepal government charges a high fee ($\$500$ USD minimum) to limit tourism and preserve the fragile cultural and ecological environment of Upper Dolpo.
From USD per adult. Price varies by group size.
Start and End Points
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