Alture Treks
Upper Dolpo Trek
26 days
Challenging
From £ 3,550
£ 3,355
No of people Price per person
1 - 1 £3,550
2 - 4 £3,355
5 - 9 £3,335
10 - 16 £3,310
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What's included?

Transportation

Domestic flight and all ground transportation as per itinerary

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu and Tea House / Lodge / Tented Camp during the trek

Meals

All meals during the trek

Permits

All necessary permits and Upper Dolpo special permits

Guide

Experienced, English-speaking trek guide

What is it really like?

Photos from the Upper Dolpo Trek

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa & Patan Durbar Square.

Explore one of Nepal’s most secluded trekking regions, rich in natural beauty and ancient Tibetan culture.

Discover this centuries-old monastery nestled below the sacred Crystal Mountain.

Marvel at the turquoise waters of Nepal’s deepest Phoksundo lake, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and forests.

Trek across high-altitude passes like Kang La (5,360 m) and Sela La (5,094 m) for unforgettable mountain panoramas.

Pass through Shey Phoksundo National Park – home to blue sheep, Himalayan wolves, and possibly the elusive snow leopard.

Visit ancient gompas, chortens, and Mani walls that reflect the deep spiritual roots of the region.

Key Information

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Alture Treks will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After settling in, you'll receive a briefing about the adventure that lies ahead. The evening is free for you to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel and enjoy a welcome dinner.

Today is reserved for permit processing and sightseeing. While Alture Treks handles your special permits for Upper Dolpo, you'll enjoy a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley, including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath. In the evening, you'll have a pre-trek meeting with your guide.

After breakfast, you'll board a scenic flight to Nepalgunj, a bustling town in the western Terai region. Once there, you’ll check into your hotel and take some time to rest or explore the local markets, which offer a taste of southern Nepali culture.

An early morning flight takes you over the Himalayan foothills to Juphal, the gateway to Dolpo. From here, the trek begins with a gentle walk through terraced fields and traditional villages to reach Dunai, the administrative center of Dolpo.

Leaving Dunai, the trail follows the Suli Khola river through a scenic canyon. As you gradually ascend, you’ll pass through pine forests and remote settlements before reaching Ankhe, a small village nestled in lush surroundings.

Today's trail is more challenging with several ascents and descents through rugged terrain. The route winds through thick forests and crosses suspension bridges, offering glimpses of high mountain cliffs before arriving at Sulighat.

A highlight of the trek, today you’ll ascend to the stunning turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake. En route, the trail passes through Ringmo village, a traditional Tibetan settlement. The views of the lake and surrounding snow-capped peaks are truly unforgettable.

You’ll spend the day acclimatizing and exploring the area. Visit the Tshowa Monastery perched above the lake and enjoy a peaceful walk along the lakeshore. This rest day helps your body adjust to the increasing altitude.

The trail today follows the narrow gorge of the Phoksundo Khola, with stunning views and river crossings on wooden bridges. The route becomes wilder and more remote, setting the tone for the upcoming wilderness experience.

This section is demanding with a steady climb through alpine terrain. As you ascend, the tree line disappears, and the landscape becomes barren but dramatic. Camp is set near the base of Kang La Pass.

A tough but rewarding day, you'll cross the Kang La Pass, the highest point of the trek. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of the Dolpo landscape before descending to Shey Gompa, an ancient and culturally rich monastery.

Spend the day exploring Shey Gompa and the sacred Crystal Mountain area. This spiritual center of Dolpo offers a unique insight into Tibetan Buddhism and allows time for acclimatization before continuing deeper into the region.

Today's trail leads over a high ridge and through isolated landscapes to Namduna Gaun, a village surrounded by barley fields and home to a centuries-old monastery built into a cliffside.

Climb up and over the challenging Saldang La Pass. The descent brings you into the culturally rich village of Saldang, known for its strategic location along the old salt trade route and its distinct Tibetan culture.

Follow a lesser-trodden trail through remote terrain to reach Yangze Gompa, a secluded monastery perched high in the Dolpo region. The setting is serene, and the journey is culturally enriching.

Retrace your steps back toward Saldang before branching off toward Sibu. The trail passes through terraced fields, small villages, and yak herder camps, offering insight into the lifestyle of Upper Dolpo's inhabitants.

A shorter but steady uphill trek brings you to the base camp of Jenga La Pass. This high-altitude camp offers majestic views and a quiet, stark beauty typical of the Tibetan Plateau.

Cross the Jenga La Pass and descend into the wide Tarap Valley. You’ll arrive at Tokyu Gaon, a picturesque village adorned with chortens and mani walls, surrounded by barley fields and high cliffs.

A short trek brings you to Dho Tarap, one of the highest permanently inhabited villages in the world. Here, you'll find a fascinating mix of Bon and Buddhist traditions in a beautiful highland setting.

Relax and acclimatize in Dho Tarap. Visit nearby monasteries, interact with locals, and soak in the cultural richness of the village. This is also a good day to rest before the long descent.

Begin descending through the dramatic gorge of the Tarap River. The trail is rugged and follows the river through narrow canyons, with occasional crossings over rustic bridges.

Continue descending through lush landscapes and scattered settlements. The vegetation becomes denser as you reach lower altitudes, eventually arriving in Khanigaon, a quiet riverside village.

Today’s trek takes you through beautiful landscapes filled with terraced fields and traditional houses. Tarakot is a charming town with a historical fortress and religious significance.

Today’s trek takes you through beautiful landscapes filled with terraced fields and traditional houses. Tarakot is a charming town with a historical fortress and religious significance.

Follow the trail along the Thuli Bheri River to return to Dunai. This familiar settlement offers the comfort of facilities and a chance to celebrate the successful completion of your high-altitude adventure.

A short and final trek brings you back to Juphal, where you’ll prepare for your flight the next day. Enjoy your last night in the mountains with the trekking team from Alture Treks.

Board the morning flight to Nepalgunj and connect to your return flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest or some last-minute souvenir shopping.

Enjoy a full free day in Kathmandu to relax or explore more cultural and culinary delights. This is also a buffer day in case of flight delays from Juphal. Alture Treks can arrange additional sightseeing or spa treatments if you wish.

Your Upper Dolpo journey with Alture Treks concludes today. A company representative will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey, bidding you a heartfelt farewell and safe travels.

Getting to Upper Dolpo is an adventure in itself and part of the region’s exclusivity. The journey starts with a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a bustling town in the southwest of Nepal. From there, you’ll take another short flight to Juphal, the gateway to Dolpo. Alture Treks manages all domestic flights, permits, and logistics, ensuring a seamless transition from city to mountains.

Once in Juphal, the trek begins through remote terrain with no road access. All supplies, camping gear, and food are carried by porters or mules, allowing you to focus entirely on the experience. The region's remoteness means it’s isolated from mainstream tourism, but Alture Treks ensures you have expert guides, proper acclimatization schedules, and full logistical support to navigate this off-the-beaten-path adventure with confidence.
Elevation Chart
Due to the remoteness of Upper Dolpo, this trek is conducted in fully-supported camping style. While basic teahouses may exist in some lower areas, most nights are spent in tents set up by our experienced support crew. Alture Treks provides high-quality camping equipment, including sleeping tents, dining tents, and kitchen gear to ensure you stay comfortable and well-protected from the elements.

Our trekking chefs prepare nutritious and hygienic meals throughout the journey, including Nepali, Tibetan, and simple Western dishes. All food is carried and prepared by our staff, ensuring safety, quality, and enough energy for the long days of trekking. Tea, coffee, boiled water, and snacks are also provided. While options are limited compared to popular trekking routes, Alture Treks focuses on quality over quantity, making sure you’re well-nourished for each leg of the journey.
The Upper Dolpo Trek is rated as “Challenging” and is recommended only for experienced trekkers in good physical and mental condition. This is a remote, high-altitude trek that requires stamina, endurance, and the ability to cope with rugged terrain and long trekking days. The journey spans several high passes above 5,000 meters, and you’ll often trek for 6–8 hours a day, sometimes in harsh conditions with limited facilities.

However, with proper preparation and guidance from Alture Treks, this trek is completely achievable. Our itinerary includes rest and acclimatization days to help your body adjust to the altitude. We provide professional guides, porters, and a medical support system to ensure your safety and well-being. This trek is not about rushing—it’s about endurance, patience, and fully immersing yourself in the sacred and isolated beauty of Upper Dolpo.

The best time to do the Upper Dolpo Trek is during late spring (May to early July) and autumn (September to October). Upper Dolpo lies in a rain-shadow area, so it's less affected by monsoon, making even the summer months accessible—something rare in Nepal. During spring, wildflowers bloom across the hillsides, and the skies remain mostly clear, while autumn brings crisp air, excellent visibility, and cooler nights.

Winters in Dolpo (November to March) are extremely cold and snow-covered, making most of the region inaccessible. The high passes remain blocked, and local settlements often relocate to lower elevations. Temperatures during the trek can vary widely—from hot sun in the lower valleys to freezing temperatures at high camps. Layers, proper gear, and a good sleeping bag are essential. Alture Treks provides a comprehensive packing list and weather guidance before your departure to help you prepare for all conditions.

  • All private ground transport incl. airport transfers
  • Kathmandu hotel with breakfast
  • Kathmandu Valley tour (guide, fees, transport)
  • All meals during trek (B/L/D)
  • Twin-sharing tented trek accommodation
  • Guide, Sherpa, porters
  • Kathmandu–Juphal flights (round trip)
  • 1 night hotel in Nepalgunj with breakfast
  • T-shirt & trekking map
  • First aid kit
  • All permits incl. Upper Dolpo
  • All taxes & service charges
  • Travel insurance (required)
  • International airfare
  • Nepal visa fee
  • Cold & alcoholic drinks
  • Personal expenses (shopping, laundry, phone)
  • Personal trekking gear
  • Tips
To undertake the Upper Dolpo Trek, you need to start physical preparation at least 6–8 weeks before your departure. This is a strenuous trek with long hiking days, steep ascents and descents, and high altitudes. Begin with regular cardiovascular training like walking, hiking, cycling, or jogging to build stamina. Gradually increase your duration and intensity to simulate trekking days.

In addition to cardio, include strength training (especially legs and core) and balance exercises to prepare for uneven terrain. Practicing hiking with a backpack can also help you get used to the conditions you'll face on the trail. Equally important is mental preparation—Dolpo is remote and physically demanding, so being mentally resilient is key. If you have altitude concerns or pre-existing medical conditions, consult your doctor before planning the trek. Alture Treks can advise on training plans and offer support for your preparation to make sure you're trail-ready.
Clothing
  • Thermal underwear (top & bottom)
  • Moisture-wicking t-shirts (long-sleeved)
  • Moisture-wicking underwear
  • Fleece jacket
  • Insulated jacket (down/synthetic)
  • Waterproof, windproof jacket
  • Waterproof pants
  • Warm beanie
  • Sun hat
  • Neck gaiter
  • Trekking pants
Handwear
  • Lightweight gloves (inner)
  • Insulated gloves/mittens (outer)
Footwear
  • Hiking boots (waterproof)
  • Camp shoes (sneakers/sandals)
Gear
  • Trekking backpack (30-40L) with cover
  • Sleeping bag (cold-rated)
  • Insulated sleeping pad
  • Trekking poles
  • Insulated water bottles/hydration bladder (2L)
  • Travel-sized toiletries
  • Biodegradable soap
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Medications (altitude, pain relief)
  • Sun protection cream
  • Wet wipes
  • Hand sanitizer
Miscellaneous
  • Camera and batteries
  • Notebook and pen
  • Earplugs
  • Portable solar charger
  • Headlamp, power bank, extra batteries

The Upper Dolpo Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote, culturally rich, and visually stunning high-altitude treks. Located in the far-western Himalayas near the Tibetan border, Upper Dolpo remains a restricted and rarely visited area, offering trekkers an untouched glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist culture and raw Himalayan beauty. The trek passes through ancient villages, sacred monasteries, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes like Kang La and Sela La. This is not just a trek—it’s a journey through one of the last places where pre-Buddhist Bon traditions are still actively practiced. Alture Treks specializes in organizing this demanding and rewarding expedition with safety, cultural respect, and professional support at the core.

The standard Upper Dolpo Trek takes approximately 24 to 27 days, depending on the specific route and acclimatization days. The package offered by Alture Treks includes all necessary trekking permits (including the Restricted Area Permit, Shey-Phoksundo National Park entry, and Trekking Information Management System – TIMS card), domestic flights (Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Juphal and return), experienced trekking guides and porters, accommodation in tents or basic teahouses, three meals a day during the trek, and logistics support including kitchen staff, camping gear, and transportation. Our team ensures the journey is both safe and culturally respectful.

The best seasons for the Upper Dolpo Trek are late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). These months offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and good trail accessibility. Since Dolpo lies in a rain shadow region behind the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, it receives less monsoon rain, making it one of the few areas in Nepal that can be trekked even during the summer months. Winter is generally not suitable due to heavy snow and extreme cold at higher elevations.

This trek is considered strenuous and suitable for experienced trekkers. It involves long walking days (6–8 hours on average), high-altitude passes over 5,000 meters (e.g., Kang La Pass), and remote wilderness areas with limited infrastructure. Alture Treks requires that participants be in excellent physical condition, preferably with previous high-altitude trekking experience. However, with proper preparation, acclimatization, and support from our team, the trek is achievable and immensely rewarding.

Since Upper Dolpo is a restricted region, trekkers need a Restricted Area Permit, which can only be issued through a government-registered trekking company like Alture Treks. In addition, a Shey-Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit and a TIMS card are also required. We handle the entire permit process on your behalf, ensuring full compliance with government regulations. Trekkers must be in a group of at least two and accompanied by a licensed guide.

Accommodation during the Upper Dolpo Trek is a mix of camping and basic teahouses, depending on the route and location. In more remote areas, camping is necessary, and Alture Treks provides quality tents, sleeping mats, and kitchen equipment. Our trekking chef prepares hygienic, energy-rich meals with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. In teahouse areas, meals typically include rice, lentils, pasta, potatoes, soups, and Tibetan bread. We cater to dietary restrictions as much as possible, and drinking water is either boiled or treated throughout the trek.

The trek starts from Juphal, a small airstrip in Dolpa District. First, you'll take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then a connecting flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal. Due to unpredictable weather and flight delays in this region, Alture Treks recommends keeping extra buffer days in your itinerary. All flights and necessary transfers are arranged as part of your package.

Yes, due to the high elevations (over 5,000 meters), acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a real concern. However, Alture Treks designs the itinerary with sufficient acclimatization days and gradual altitude gain to minimize risk. Our guides are trained in altitude sickness prevention, recognition, and emergency response. We carry a first aid kit, oximeter, and supplemental oxygen (if requested), and we have emergency evacuation protocols in place.

For this trek, you'll need warm layers (thermal base layers, fleece, insulated jackets), windproof and waterproof outerwear, sturdy trekking boots, gloves, warm hats, sleeping bag (rated at -15°C or lower), sunglasses, sunscreen, personal toiletries, water bottles or hydration systems, and snacks. A detailed packing list will be provided upon booking, and Alture Treks offers gear rental support in Kathmandu if needed.

Absolutely. Alture Treks can customize your Upper Dolpo Trek to include Lower Dolpo, Shey Gompa, or even connect to Mustang or Annapurna regions for an extended adventure. We can also adjust the itinerary based on your available time, fitness level, or interest in cultural interaction or photography. Just let us know your preferences, and we’ll design a personalized experience for you.

The Upper Dolpo Trek is a rare and extraordinary Himalayan journey that takes you into one of Nepal’s most remote and mystical regions. Offered by Alture Treks, this trek is ideal for seasoned adventurers seeking untouched landscapes, ancient Tibetan-influenced culture, and true wilderness solitude. Upper Dolpo lies in the rain-shadow of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, and it was closed to foreigners until the late 1980s. Today, it remains one of Nepal's least-explored trekking destinations, offering pristine mountain scenery, sacred monasteries, and timeless villages untouched by modern development.

This trek offers a deeply spiritual and cultural experience as you walk through ancient Bon and Tibetan Buddhist settlements, pass through yak pastures, and cross high Himalayan passes such as Kang La (5,360 m) and Shey La (5,000 m). You'll visit iconic sites like Shey Gompa—an 11th-century monastery set beneath the Crystal Mountain—and the turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s deepest lake. The Upper Dolpo Trek is not just a trek; it's a transformative journey into a hidden world that few travelers get to witness, curated with care and expertise by Alture Treks.

Why Choose Upper Dolpo Trek with Alture Treks?

The Upper Dolpo Trek is not a trip for everyone—but for those who are called to its mystery, it offers one of the most authentic and transformative journeys in the Himalayas. Choosing Alture Treks means entrusting your adventure to a team of seasoned professionals who understand the complexity, logistics, and cultural depth of Dolpo. From obtaining special restricted-area permits to arranging local guides familiar with Dolpo’s traditions, we go above and beyond to deliver a safe, immersive, and enriching experience.

We believe in responsible trekking, with a strong focus on supporting local communities, preserving cultural heritage, and minimizing environmental impact. Our personalized service, ethical approach, and in-depth knowledge of the region make Alture Treks the perfect partner for this remote and rewarding trek. When you trek with us, you’re not just reaching the hidden valleys of Dolpo—you’re walking in the footsteps of pilgrims, monks, and nomads who’ve lived in harmony with this land for centuries.

You can count on us

Expert Local Guides

We are seasoned professionals who know these trails like the back of our hands. We bring both deep knowledge and genuine warmth to your journey—keeping you informed, inspired, and in good hands.

Authentic & Flexible Itineraries

We craft our trips to offer more than just the highlights. Whether it’s a peaceful village walk or a high-altitude challenge, our itineraries blend iconic sights with lesser-known gems, and we’re always happy to tailor the pace to your comfort.

Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your adventure is locked in—no cancellations due to low group sizes. Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a group, you can plan with confidence knowing your trip is guaranteed to go.

Commitment to Safety

Your well-being is our top priority. We closely monitor weather and trail conditions, carry essential safety gear, and make informed decisions on the ground. You’ll trek with peace of mind, backed by a team that genuinely cares.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

We practice low-impact trekking and support local communities every step of the way. From eco-conscious planning to fair wages for our team, we believe in travel that respects people, place, and planet.

Unbeatable Value

We believe great adventures shouldn’t come with a hefty price tag. With fair pricing, no hidden fees, and excellent service included from start to finish, Alture Treks offers exceptional value—so you get the most out of your journey without compromise.

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