Upper Dolpo Adventure Trek

Your day will begin with a guided tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, the sacred Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and the revered Pashupatinath Temple. This day also includes preparations for your trek, with final gear checks and briefings from your guide. This mix of cultural immersion and practical preparation sets the stage for the adventure ahead.

Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You’ll take a short domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m/492ft), a town in the Terai region near the Indian border. Nepalgunj serves as the gateway to the remote regions of western Nepal. After arriving, you’ll have time to rest and explore the town, getting a taste of its warm climate and diverse culture.

Overnight at Hotel in Nepalgunj.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A scenic flight will take you from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,475m/8,120ft), a small mountain airstrip. From Juphal, your trek begins with a hike to Dunai, a quaint village located in the lower Dolpo region. The trek takes around 4-5 hours and introduces you to the pristine beauty of the Himalayan landscape, with lush forests and roaring rivers. At 2,850 meters, Dunai is a significant settlement where you can observe the local culture and lifestyle, setting the stage for the remote and spiritual journey ahead.

Overnight at Tealodge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s trek takes you through a lush, forested trail along the Phoksundo River. You’ll pass through several small villages before reaching Chepka, a small settlement known for its tranquil atmosphere. The trail is mostly gentle, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Overnight at Teahouse in Chepka.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The trek from Chepka to Ringmo Gaon is both challenging and rewarding. As you climb higher, the landscape changes dramatically, with dense forests giving way to more barren, rocky terrain. Ringmo Gaon is situated near Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal’s most beautiful and pristine lakes.

Overnight at Teahouse in Ringmo Gaon.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This day’s trek takes you through a remote and rugged area, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The trail gradually ascends to Salla Ghari, a serene location nestled within the heart of the Dolpo region. The tranquility of the area provides a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.

Overnight at Teahouse in Salla Ghari.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is one of the most challenging days of the trek as you cross the Nandola La Pass. The ascent is steep and demanding, but the panoramic views from the pass are breathtaking. As you descend into the valley, you’ll reach Shey Gompa, a revered Buddhist monastery known for its spiritual significance and remote location.

Overnight at Teahouse in Shey Gompa.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Crossing the Sela Pass today, you’ll experience one of the trek’s most spectacular sections. The trail offers incredible views of the Dolpo landscape, including distant snow-capped peaks and vast, open valleys. After the pass, you’ll descend to Saldang, one of the largest villages in the region.

Overnight at Teahouse in Saldang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is a rest day at Saldang, allowing you to acclimatize and explore the village. You can visit local monasteries, interact with the villagers, and learn about their way of life. This day is crucial for adjusting to the altitude and preparing for the upcoming sections of the trek.

Overnight at Teahouse in Saldang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The trail to Rapa Gompa is a relatively moderate trek that takes you through high-altitude terrain with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Rapa Gompa is a small, secluded monastery where you can experience the serenity and spirituality of the Dolpo region.

Overnight at Teahouse in Rapa Gompa.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s trek involves crossing the Jangla Pass, one of the highest points on the route. The climb is steep, but the views from the top are extraordinary. After crossing the pass, you’ll descend into the Tarap Valley, eventually reaching Dho Tarap, one of the highest human settlements in the world.

Overnight at Teahouse in Dho Tarap.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The trail descends gradually as you follow the Tarap River downstream to Nawar Pani. The landscape is a mix of barren cliffs and green valleys, offering a stark contrast to the higher elevations. This area is known for its remote beauty and solitude.

Overnight at Teahouse in Nawar Pani.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The descent continues as you trek towards Sima, passing through narrow gorges and along the winding river. The trail becomes more forested as you lower in elevation, with the surrounding environment becoming lush and green.

Overnight at Teahouse in Sima.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s trek takes you back to Dunai, where you’ll retrace your steps along the trail. The route is familiar but offers new perspectives and reflections after days in the high mountains. Dunai serves as a comfortable stop before the final stretch of your journey.

Overnight at Teahouse in Dunai.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A short, easy trek brings you back to Juphal, where your trek began. The trail is mostly downhill, allowing for a relaxed pace as you reflect on the incredible journey. Upon arrival in Juphal, you’ll prepare for your flight back to Nepalgunj.

Overnight at Teahouse in Juphal.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The adventure concludes with a flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, followed by a connecting flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can unwind and enjoy the comforts of the city. There will be time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing before a farewell dinner in the evening.

Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On your final day in Nepal, you’ll prepare for your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute exploration or relaxation in Kathmandu. The trek may be over, but the memories of the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences will stay with you forever.

Eve: Experience sharing followed by Farewell dinner.

Meals: Breakfast