Upper Dolpo Trek

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Upper dolpo trek

Upper Dolpo Trek Summary

    1. Upper Dolpo Trek Duration: 23 Days
    2. Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Grade level
    3. High Altitude: 5,070m/16,634 feet
    4. Trekking Hour: 6 hours daily
    5. Group-Size: 2 – 12 People
    6. Best Time: May, June, July, August, September and October
    7. Trip Mode: Tent Camping
    8. Trek Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    9. Transportation: Jeep / Plane / Bus

Overview

The Upper Dolpo trek is renowned for its unique allure, famously featured in Eric Valli’s Oscar nominated film Caravan. Situated in the pristine wilderness of Shey Phoksundo National Park, it offers the stunning Phoksundo Lake, a true gem of the region. This area is further distinguished by its location in the high altitude Tibetan Buddhist region of western Nepal, bordered by China to the north, creating an isolated, yet captivating landscape.

Moreover, the Dolpo Circuit Trek, located in Nepal’s Karnali zone, unveils breathtaking vistas and an authentic wilderness experience. As this territory is a protected area, trekkers must obtain special permits to explore. Trek to Dolpo route, particularly the challenging Saldang La Pass, is best suited for expert trekkers due to its high altitude terrain.

A trek to upper dolpo is in the Trans Himalayan Dolpo region is known for its arid environment, which presents significant challenges for its inhabitants. Despite the harsh conditions, the locals remain remarkably hospitable and friendly, sustaining their livelihoods through trade with Tibet, dealing in salt, cotton, barley, and rice.

Among the key highlights of the trek are Shey Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s deepest lake, and Shey Gompa, a revered Buddhist monastery. As a result, the region has garnered increasing popularity in recent years, drawing trekkers in search of unparalleled adventure.

Hiking through Dolpo offers not only astonishing landscapes but also an opportunity to engage with the rich local culture. Along the way, ancient monasteries deepen the connection to the area’s spiritual heritage. As you trek to the Tibetan plateau further enhances its allure, making the Upper Dolpo journey an unforgettable experience.

In addition, the Upper Dolpo region is a sanctuary for a diverse range of flora and fauna. Alpine meadows, juniper forests, and lush valleys support unique plant species such as rhododendrons and blue poppies.

Wildlife in the wild west includes elusive snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, and various species of mountain goats, along with migratory birds like the Tibetan snowcock. This remote area is also rich in medicinal plants, including the highly valued yarsagumba, traditionally sought for its medicinal properties.

How much is the Upper Dolpo Trek Package Cost?

The cost of the Upper Dolpo trek package with a Gokyo Treks Agency (local trekking agency) ranges between US$ 3395 to US$ 4100. The upper Dolpo trip price will vary according to the group size you are traveling to and the service you choose.

It’s a standard trip package price for 23 days hike to Upper Dolpo route. If you are 2 foreign visitors upper Dolpo trek cost US$ 3598 per person as per given trekking plan. We can modify the trek route and the prices according to your wish. Here is the price list for 23 days Upper Dolpo treks in wild west Himalayas in Nepal.

Price Per Person for an Upper Dolpo trek package.

Number of TouristPrice Per Person
1 PersonUS$ 4100
2 PersonUS$ 3598
3 PersonUS$ 3550
4 to 6 personUS$ 3498
7 to 9 PersonUS$ 3425
10 and more than 10 PersonUS$ 3395

If you’re wondering to know about what is included and what is excluded on this trip price, kindly check on cost given on a tab button.

Itinerary

Cost

Group join

FAQ

Upper Dolpo Trek Highlights for visitors

  • Phoksundo Lake is famous for its magnificent turquoise color and the spectacular scenery clearly ranks it among the most scenic lakes in the world.
  • Ringmo village, a typical Tibetan village, is scenically nestled in the area.
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park offers wildest dreams, from the gigantic Himalayas to the deepest lakes.
  • Discover the challenging Numa la and Baga la high passes along the route.
  • Ancient isolated villages, Buddhist monasteries, enthralling culture, and tradition.
  • Territory of Snow Leopards with many other wild animals often will have a chance to see on your journey.
  • Experience the vast array of wildlife inhabiting the region.
  • Shey Gompa, an ancient Buddhist monastery in inner Dolpo with a spectacular trail around the western end of the lake.
  • Hike the Dolpo route usually goes above 4000 meters, and this unknown land influences the Tibetan culture.
  • Dho Tarap is a Buddhist village in Dolpo Buddha Rural Municipality of Dolpa District in the Karnali Zone of north western Nepal.

Best time for Upper Dolpo Trekking

The best time for Upper Dolpo trek is stating from May and ends at October. During these months, the weather is generally stable. It offers clear skies and moderate temperatures, which are ideal for high altitude trekking in Dolpo territory. Spring features blooming rhododendrons and lush landscapes, while autumn provides crisp, clear views of the mountains and minimal precipitation.

In contrast, the summer monsoon can bring heavy rains, resulting in slippery trails and an increased risk of flight cancellations in Dolpo. Thus, spring and autumn are the most favorable periods for this trek, ensuring more dependable weather and better trail conditions.

Trek to Upper Dolpo Level of difficulty

Upper Dolpo trek is considered a challenging journey, requiring a high level of physical fitness. It involves long days of walking, often for 6 to 8 hours, with significant ascents and descents. Trekkers will navigate rugged terrain, cross high mountain passes, and endure varying weather conditions, which demands both physical stamina and mental resilience.

Additionally, the journey reaches altitudes over 5,000 meters, where acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. Thus, prior trekking experience and good overall fitness are essential for safely and comfortably completing this demanding adventure.

Notes for Upper Dolpo trekkers!

Trek to upper Dolpo route as stated above is a standard package plan, possible to modify as per your request to accommodate your personal preferences. Please note that factors such as local politics, landslides, flight cancellations, weather conditions, and transportation issues may necessitate changes to the tour itinerary.

It is, however, very incredible that the itinerary would be extensively altered. If alterations are necessary the leader will decide the best alternative option, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. When a change does arise, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we won’t responsible for the results of changes or delays and extra price.

What makes the Upper Dolpo trek very special?

This adventure Upper Dolpo trek stands out for its remote and untouched landscapes, offering an immersive experience in one of Nepal’s most isolated regions. Trekkers are rewarded with stunning high altitude desert scenery, ancient Tibetan culture, and traditional villages, all while exploring a region largely unaffected by modern tourism. It also provides unique opportunities to witness diverse wildlife, visit ancient monasteries, and experience the serene beauty of the Himalayas away from the crowded routes.

We at Gokyo Treks and Expedition believe in quality services. Your safety and satisfaction is our concern. We are a team of professional, experienced, trained, and licensed local guides who know the destination much better than others. Not only this but also we give benefits to the local communities and help to conserve natural resources which reduced costs and consumption.

Upper Dolpo Trek Review

Best Agency, Excellent service

May 12, 2017

Great trek, run by competent people, a special guide called SOM Shrestha and Kamal Khatri and a nice carrier. Fantastic landscapes and unforgettable encounters. Gokyo Treks is the right agency to make a trek in Nepal!!! Thanks at all!. – Cristiano Lissoni, Milano, Italy.

Avatar for Cristiano Lissoni, Milano, Italy.
Cristiano Lissoni, Milano, Italy.

Response from Gokyo Treks Nepal

Thank you Christiano for the time to review your trek with us. We hope to welcome you again for your trip in the Himalayas again.

From US$ 3671

2% Off US$ 3598See Group Discount
No. of peoplePrice Per Person
1 USD 4100
2 USD 3598
3 USD 3550
4 - 6 USD 3498
7 - 9 USD 3425
10 + USD 3395
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