After completing the Upper Dolpo Trek, why not extend your stay in Nepal and explore the wonders of Bardia National Park? Instead of flying back to Kathmandu on Day 23, you have the opportunity to set off on an unforgettable Wildlife Safari tour from Nepalgunj.
For further information or to customize your Wildlife Safari tour, please don't hesitate to reach out to our office. The Himalayan Dream Team is here to help you create the perfect adventure, combining the serenity of Upper Dolpo with the thrill of Bardia's wildlife.
Join us for an extraordinary adventure, knowing that everything is arranged to suit your desires. Let Himalayan Dream Team make your travel dreams come true.
Upon arriving at Kathmandu airport, a team member will greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. In the evening, join us for a delightful dinner at one of the city's renowned restaurants, where you'll have the opportunity to meet fellow travelers and discuss the exciting Upper DolpoTrek adventures ahead.
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Our first stop is the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa, perched on a hilltop, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Kathmandu. This sacred site is a beautiful symbol of faith for both Buddhists and Hindus.
Pashupatinath Temple: Next, we visit Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple and cremation site. Here, you can witness and photograph traditional Hindu rituals along the Bagmati River, immersing yourself in the local spiritual life.
In the afternoon, begin your journey with a scenic 1-hour flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a bustling town near the Indian border and Bardia National Park. If time permits in the evening, visit the Bageshwori Temple, a significant Hindu shrine.
Kick off your adventure with a scenic early morning flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal, lasting about 40 minutes. Upon arrival, you'll meet the rest of our team and finalize preparations by distributing the baggage to our porters. Start your trek with a descent along the Thuli Bheri River, leading you to the serene village of Sulighat.
Follow the Suli River as it descends from Phoksundo Lake through a lush, vegetated gorge. The trail passes through scattered villages and the abandoned stone houses of Jyalhasa, inhabited only in winter. After lunch, cross Anke Khola and ascend alongside the Suli River.
Traverse a narrow valley, passing through bamboo and conifer forests. The trail leads to flower-strewn fields and then eases as you reach Rechi. Continue along the valley, crossing bridges and ascending until you reach Samduwa, before a short walk to Jharana Hotel.
Today's destination is Ringmo village, located by the stunning Phoksundo Lake. Follow the Phoksundo River, ascending to a large waterfall. After lunch, enjoy a pleasant walk along the river to Ringmo village, with breathtaking views of the lake.
Take a well-deserved rest day to acclimate and explore the beauty of Phoksundo Lake. Enjoy a short hike to Ringmo village and its monastery, experiencing the local culture and traditions of the Dolpo people.
Begin your trek to Phoksundo Khola Camp along a picturesque trail around the western end of the lake. The path mostly follows the riverbed, offering stunning views of Kanjirowa Himal (6612m). Arrive at the camp with the turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake below.
Leave the Phoksundo valley on a narrow path with towering rock walls. Ascend gradually from Phoksundo Khola Camp to Snowfields Camp (4650m), following the footsteps of Peter Matthiesson. Camp at the base of Kang La Pass (5350m).
Climb to the summit of Kang La Pass (5350m), also known as Nagadalo La, which leads to Inner Dolpo. Descend to the valley floor and follow the river to Shey Gompa, nestled under the unique Crystal Peak. Set up camp in a field with herders’ huts beneath the monastery.
Today is dedicated to rest and exploring the surroundings of Shey Gompa. Built in 1655, Shey Gompa is famous for its giant copper statue of a seated Sakyamuni Buddha, plated with gold. East of the gompa lies Crystal Mountain, known for its twisted cliffs mixed with quartz and rich in aquatic fossils. We'll also explore Shey village, delving into its ancient pre-Buddhist Bon Po culture.
Our journey to Namgung takes us through the Sela La Pass (5095m), also known as Gela La. From the pass's summit, enjoy breathtaking views of Inner Dolpo and the Tibetan plateau. Descend through meadows to reach Namgung village, where we will visit the ancient Namgung Gompa.
Today's trek takes us along a quiet, rocky path descending through tall sand hills to the picturesque village of Saldang. Once an independent kingdom of Dolpo, Saldang offers a unique landscape and rich history. Spend the evening exploring the village and soaking in its serene ambiance.
Leaving Saldang, we follow the Nagon Khola, passing fields of barley, the primary crop of Dolpo. We'll traverse the dispersed village of Namdo, home to two monasteries—one by the stream and another atop a hill. Our day concludes with a riverside camp near the quaint village of Sibu.
From Sibu, we continue along the Nagon Khola, encountering yak caravans as we ascend towards Jeng La. The trail takes us through bare rocky hills and dunes, leading to Jeng La Phedi, a yak grazing area where we set up camp.
A steep climb from Jeng La Phedi brings us to the top of Jeng La Pass (5220m), offering distant views of the Dhaulagiri massif. Descend to Jyanla Khola and follow the river to reach the village of Tokyu.
Today, we descend through the Tarap valley, passing various Gompas along the Thakchiu Khola. A gentle walk beside the river brings us to Dho Tarap, the first village in the Tarap valley. After a brief rest, explore the village and its monastery.
Descending alongside the river, we trek beneath striking cliffs and across the meadows of Sisaul Khola. Crossing the Tarap Chu on several bridges, we reach the grazing area of Shim Ora (3647m) and continue to Toltol.
Today's trek takes us through the Tarap Chu valley on a well-maintained path, including stone ladders. The trail descends to Khanigaon, where we set up camp in a juniper stand by the stream, enjoying the warmer climate at this lower elevation.
Departing from Khanigaon, we reach the confluence of Tarap Chu and Bharbung Khola, and cross a high suspension bridge. The trail ascends above the river before descending to Tarakot along the Thuli Bheri River. With a shorter trekking day, we have the afternoon to explore the impressive Lam Gompa.
Nearing the end of our journey, we trek alongside the Thuli Bheri River to Dunai. The trail passes through scattered settlements and farmlands. A leisurely walk on the picturesque path brings us to Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpo, where we celebrate our trek's completion.
On our final trekking day, we follow the Thuli Bheri River to Juphal airstrip. This easy trek allows us to explore Juphal town with some free time in the afternoon.
We catch the first flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, enjoying scenic views, and then fly from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you'll be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Kathmandu as you unwind from the trek.
Today is reserved in case of any flight delays or cancellations between Nepalgunj and Jhuphal. If all flights operate on schedule, this day offers an excellent opportunity for additional sightseeing. We can arrange an optional tour to the historic cities of Bhaktapur and Patan.
Optional Sightseeing Tour:
Bhaktapur: Explore the ancient city of Bhaktapur, renowned for its rich culture, temples, and intricate wood, metal, and stone artworks. Highlights include Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, and the Pottery Square.
Patan: Visit the historic city of Patan, also known as Lalitpur, famous for its architectural heritage and vibrant arts scene. Key attractions include Patan Durbar Square, the Krishna Mandir, and the Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar).
This optional tour provides a deeper insight into the cultural and historical richness of the Kathmandu Valley, making your trek experience even more memorable.
On your final day after completing the Unique Upper Dolpo Trek with Himalayan Dream Team, it's time to bid farewell. With hearts filled with cherished memories and a deeper understanding of Nepal's rich culture and breathtaking landscapes, our dedicated representative will ensure a smooth and comfortable transfer to the international airport.
As you board your flight, take a moment to reflect on the enriching experiences and knowledge gained during your trek. We hope to welcome you back for more adventures with the Himalayan Dream Team. Safe travels and best wishes for your future endeavors!
The best time to trek to Upper Dolpo is from May to September. These months offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and favorable temperatures for trekking.
The highest point on the Upper Dolpo trek is the Kang-La Pass, which stands at an elevation of 5,350 meters (17,552 feet).
Pack essentials like trekking gear, warm clothing, a good sleeping bag, trekking poles, a first aid kit, water purification tablets, and personal items. A detailed packing list can be provided by your trekking agency.
Yes, the trek passes through Shey Phoksundo National Park, where you may encounter wildlife such as snow leopards, blue sheep, goral, and Himalayan black bears.
Yes, you can extend your adventure by visiting places like Bardia National Park for a wildlife safari. Customization options are available with your trekking agency.
The Upper Dolpo trek is considered challenging due to its high altitude and remote location. Trekkers should be physically fit and prepared for long walking hours and steep ascents.
A good level of fitness is required for the Upper Dolpo trek. Prior trekking experience, especially at high altitudes, is beneficial.
In case of emergencies, helicopter evacuations can be arranged. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuations.
Yes, you need special permits to trek in the Upper Dolpo region. This includes the Dolpo Restricted Area Permit and the Shey Phoksundo National Park entry permit.
The trek starts in Juphal, which is accessible by a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by another short flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal.
Trekking independently in Upper Dolpo is not allowed. You must trek with a registered guide and obtain the necessary permits through a licensed trekking agency.
Acclimatization is crucial. The trek itinerary includes rest days for acclimatization, and it's important to walk slowly, stay hydrated, and follow your guide's advice.
Accommodation on the Upper Dolpo trek is mainly in teahouses or tents. Teahouses provide basic facilities, while tent camping is more common in remote areas.
Teahouses and camps offer basic meals including rice, lentils, vegetables, noodles, soup, and Tibetan bread. It's advisable to carry some high-energy snacks.
Yes, you will visit Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, traditional villages, and significant cultural sites like Shey Gompa and Phoksundo Lake, offering a deep cultural immersion.
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