26 Days Upper Dolpo Trek
Upper Dolpo Trek Facts
Kathmandu
Strenuous
Full Board on Trek
Tea House and tent camp
Private Vehicle and Flight
5360
June to September
Camping
Upper Dolpo Trek Highlights
- Trek through the Shey Phoksundo National Park and witness varieties of flora and fauna.
- Visit the 800 years old Shey Gompa
- Observe beautiful views of Himalayan peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range
- Spend your time in the trek by walking around the Shey Phoksundo Lake, variety of flora and fauna, and viewing Crystal Mountains.
- Walk through the traditional villages like Ringmo, Saldang, and Tinje
Upper Dolpo Trek Overview
Upper Dolpo Trek Outline
Day 01 – Arrival in Kathmandu airport (1345meters) transfer to hotel.
Day 02 – Pre-trip meeting and sightseeing around the Kathmandu valley.
Day 03 - Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj 1hours flight.
Day 04 – Fly from Nepalgumj to Juphal 35 minutes flight (2,400m) and trek to Dunai (2,150m)3hours walk.
Day 05 – Trek from Dunai to Ankhe (2660 meters) 6hours walk.
Day 06 – Trek from Ankhe to Renje (3104 meters) 7hours walk.
Day 07 – Trek from Renje to Phoksundo Lake(3600 meters)6.5hours walk.
Day 08 – Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Phoksundo khola (3507 meters)6hours walk.
Day 09 – Trek from Phoksundo khola to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4402 meters)7hours walk.
Day 10 – Trek from Phoksundo Bhanjyang to Shey Gompa (4126 meters) via the Kang La pass (5151 meters) 7hours walk.
Day 11 – Rest and exploration day at Shey Gompa.
Day 12 – Trek from Shey Gompa to Namduna Gaon (4400 meters)via the Saldang La pass (4785 meters) 7hour walk.
Day 13 – Trek from Namduna Gaon to Saldang (3903 meters) 4hours walk.
Day 14 – Trek from Saldang to Sibu (3942 meters) 6hours walk.
Day 15 – Trek from Sibu to Jeng La Phedi (4369 meters) 5hours walk.
Day 16 – Trek from Jeng La Phedi to Tokyu Gaon (4240 meters) via Jeng La pass (4845 meters)7hours walk.
Day 17 – Trek from Tokyu Gaon to Dho Tarap (4090 meters) 4hours walk.
Day 18 – Trek from Dho Tarap to Serkam (3630 meters) 6hours walk.
Day 19 – Trek from Serkam to Khani Gaon (2550 meters) 7hours walk.
Day 20 – Trek from Khani Gaon to Tarakot (2281 meters) 4hours walk.
Day 21 – Trek from Tarakot to Dunai (2052 meters) 5hours walk.
Day 22 – Trek from Dunai to Juphal (2400 meters) 3hours walk.
Day 23 – Fly from Juphal to Nepalgumj 35 minutes flight
Day 24 - Fly from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu 1hours flight.
Day 25 – Leisure day in Kathmandu. Overnight at a hotel.
Day 26 – Transfer to the international airport for your final departure.
Affordable Upper Dolpo Trek Packages (2025–2026)
The cost of Upper Dolpo Trek depends upon the group size, duration and services included in the trek. The price for the Upper Dolpo Trek typically costs between USD 4,300 to USD 4,500 per person for standard 26-days trek from Kathmandu to Shey-Phoksundo Lake, Kang La Pass, Saldang La Pass, Jheng La Pass and back. The service typically includes domestic flights, permits, accommodation, meals, an experience guide, and porter services. A large group trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill trek can be a budget-friendly option compared to smaller groups, as the per-person cost can be reduced. It also allows for a shared experience, along with support of a professional group leader and local team.
SERVICE INCLUSION
- Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop by private car / van / bus,
- Standard twin sharing accommodation in two/three star hotel in Kathmandu(3nights) and Nepalgunj (2nights) breakfast included.
- Guided city tour in Kathmandu by private car / van / bus.
- Stander meal Lunch , Dinner, and Breakfast and tea house accommodation during the trek.
- A government licensed English speaking Guide during the trek, required number of porters, their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and a general first aid kit.
- Round trip from Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Juphal – Napalgunj –Kathmandu .
- Upper Dolpo special trekking permit and all necessary permits.
- We provide Down Jacket, duffel/kit bag and sleeping bag(which needs to be returned after the trek.)
- All our government taxes.
- Tourist service charge.
- Official expense :
What's not included?
- Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu.
- Your travel insurance (compulsory).
- International airfare and airport departure tax.
- Nepal entry visa fee.
- Terms of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry.
- Personal trekking Equipments.
- Tips for trekking staff and driver.
- Sightseeing/Monument entrance fees.
- Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section.
Departure Dates
We have daily departures for this trip from March to May and from mid-September to mid-December. You can type in the number of passengers to book a reservation and select a date that is convenient for you. Due to group size, we never cancel a trip once you've made a reservation. If you would rather join the group, we will add more travelers on the selected date. You can let us know once you make a reservation or earlier.
If you want to cancel the trip for any reason, you can let us know at least 30 days in advance. We will refund your deposit. If you want to cancel the trip within a 30-day period, we will keep your deposit until you find out the next schedule.
| Starts | Ends | Price | Status | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thursday 31 Jul 2025 | Tuesday 26 Aug 2025 | $4,375Per Person | 2 Booked Join Group | Book Now |
| Wednesday 13 Aug 2025 | Monday 08 Sep 2025 | $4,375Per Person | Booked Available | Book Now |
| Wednesday 27 Aug 2025 | Monday 22 Sep 2025 | $4,375Per Person | 3 Booked Join Group | Book Now |
| Tuesday 09 Sep 2025 | Sunday 05 Oct 2025 | $4,375Per Person | Booked Available | Book Now |
Useful Info
Best Time of Year for Upper Dolpo Trek
The best time for Upper Dolpo Trek is from June to September. Although the Upper Dolpo Trek is accessible throughout the year, the months from June to September offer the best experience with favourable weather and rich cultural encounters. These months offers trekkers with clear skies, stable and mild temperature and excellent mountain views. Trekkers can witness clear and breathtaking mountain views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range. Along the trails, spring season showcases with alpine meadows and vibrant landscapes whereas in autumn season showcases with dry, clear skies, with excellent visibility, cultural richness during Dashain and Tihar festivals, spectacular Post-monsoon Mountain views, cool and comfortable temperature, which is ideal for trekking and photography. The monsoon season (June to September) is popular for this trek as it lies in a rain shadow region that receives little rainfall, resulting in lush meadows, blooming wildflowers, snow-free high passes and clear skies. While winter season (December to February) brings extreme cold and snow, often blocking the trials while crossing the Kang La Pass. For the best experience in the Dolpo and Far western region of Nepal, plan your trek from June to September when the weather is favorable, trails are dry, and views are at their finest.
Upper Dolpo Trek Duration in Days, Distance in KM and Elevation in Meters
The Upper Dolpo Trek is about 230 to 250 kilometers (242 to 255 miles) round trip from Juphal to Juphal. The journey takes 20 walking days, with 5 to 7 hours of trekking each day to making a round trip back to via Shey-Phoksundo Lake, while crossing the three high passes: Kang La Pass (5,151 meters), Saldang La Pass (4,785 meters) and Jeng La Pass (4,845 meters). Each day while ascending, trekkers walk between 10 to 15 km, depending on the terrain, and elevation gain. Trekkers ascend approximately 2,700 meters from Juphal to Kang La Pass, Saldang La Pass, and Jeng La Pass,then descend gradually through the traditional villages like Serkam, Khani Gaon , Tarakot and Dunai. The starting point of this trek at Juphal sits at an elevation of 2,400 meters, while Kang La Pass lies at 5,151 meters. Kang La Pass is the highest point on this trek which offers you with beautiful views of Himalayan peaks such as Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayan Range.
Reliable and Safe Upper Dolpo Trekking Experience
At Mountain Hawk, your safety is our top priority. We provide expertly guided Upper Dolpo treks with a focus on altitude acclimatization, health, care, and emergency preparedness. Trekkers need to follow the guide instruction properly for safe, enjoyable, and rewarding high-altitude experience that takes them to crossing the three high passes: Kang La Pass (5,151 meters), Saldang La Pass (4,785 meters) and Jeng La Pass (4,845 meters). Our experienced, licensed guides are trained in high altitude safety, ensuring you journey is both achievable and rewarding. From planned acclimatization days, quality gear advice, porter support, and responsive rescue coordination, we offer a level of service that gives you peace of mind. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned hiker, you can depend upon Mountain Hawk for a safe, attentive, and unforgettable Upper Dolpo Trek adventure.
Physical Preparation Guide for Upper Dolpo Trek
The Upper Dolpo Trek doesn’t require technical climbing skills but it does demand a good level of physical fitness. Many beginners have successfully completed the Upper Dolpo trek with our company, so mountaineering experience is not much required. However, normal level of physical fitness is necessary. Trekkers will be walking 5 to 7 hours a day at high altitudes on average, often on rocky, uneven trails and sharp elevation gains. People who regularly engage in fitness activities such as swimming, cycling, or cardio exercises find it easier to accomplish this trek. Trekkers with experience in long-distance walking or high-altitude trekking will adapt more easily, but even beginners can succeed with the right preparation and a slow, steady pace. Proper acclimatization and mental preparedness are equally important to cross the high-altitude Kang La Pass at 5,151 meters. If you are preparing for the Upper Dolpo trek, mountaineering experience is not much essential, but a good level of physical fitness is important.
Transportation Options
The Upper Dolpo trek begins with a one hour domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. You will again take a flight to Juphal, which is the starting point of your trek. The short yet amazing flight to Juphal lasts about 35 minutes, offering spectacular aerial views of the Himalayan Ranges. While returning, you will have to take a flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj and again another flight from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu.
Upper Dolpo Trek FAQs
The Upper Dolpo Trek is a remote and adventurous trekking route in the Dolpo and Far Western region of Nepal. This trek offers Himalayan landscapes, Tibetan Buddhist culture, Bon Monasteries, and untouched wilderness.
The Upper Dolpo Trek is considered strenuous trek, as it involves high altitude, tent camping, and steep climbs, which require proper acclimatization. Crossing Kang La Pass is challenging as it involves rocky trails and steep slopes. However, technical climbing skills are not required for this trek.
To prepare for the Upper Dolpo Trek, focus on improving your physical fitness, as it is essential for the trek, and also understand the challenges of high-altitude trekking, such as lower oxygen levels, risk of altitude sickness, cold temperatures, and reduced stamina.
You will need a layered clothing system, warm jackets, trekking pants and shirts, Trekking boots, several pairs of trekking socks, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, moisturizer, personal water bottles, etc. We recommend packing some essential items to ensure safety and comfort during the Upper Dolpo Trek.
Yes, beginners can do the Upper Dolpo Trek. Trekkers should have passion, dedication, and be physically fit to successfully complete the trek. Trekking with an experienced guide is also highly important for beginners.
Yes, guides are compulsory for the Upper Mustang Trek, as the area is restricted. For foreigners, it is compulsory to have a minimum of two people while doing the trek. However, the route involves high-altitude challenges, long daily hikes, and steep sections. Therefore, we recommend hiring an experienced guide to ensure your safety, assist with navigation, and provide local insights. A porter can also reduce your physical load, making your trek more comfortable.
Along the trek, you will stay in basic teahouses and lodges that provide simple rooms and meals. At lower altitudes, these places are more comfortable and better managed. However, as you go higher towards the high altitude, the accommodation becomes more basic.
Yes, Wi-Fi and mobile network coverage are available some of the villages along the Upper Dolpo Trek, such as Saldang, Dunai, Dho Tarap, etc. Most teahouses charge their customers for Wi-Fi access. Trekkers should expect limited connectivity on the Upper Dolpo Trek route, as the Wi-Fi and mobile network can be unreliable due to weather and local infrastructure.
Temperatures vary by season and altitude. In spring and autumn, daytime temperatures typically range from 5°C and 15°C. At nighttime, temperatures can drop to -10°C, even during peak seasons. Winter treks may experience temperatures as low as -15°C or colder at nighttime.
Yes, teahouses offer charging facilities for a small fee (USD 2-5 per device). We recommend carrying a power bank or solar charger, as electricity may be limited at higher altitudes.
Credit cards are not accepted along the Upper Dolpo Trek. Most of the teahouses and small shops on the Upper Dolpo Trek route do not accept credit cards. It’s best to carry enough Nepali Rupees for the entire trek, especially for hot showers, Wi-Fi, hot water, and tips. Credit cards are accepted in major cities such as Kathmandu.
You can expect traditional Nepali meals such as dal bhat, along with noodles, soup, eggs, and tea/coffee. In higher altitudes, food choices may be limited, and prices increase due to transportation challenges.
The Upper Dolpo Trek is one of the most unique treks in Nepal, as it takes you to the remote far-western region, offering untouched wilderness, the famous Shey Phoksundo Lake, and ancient Tibetan culture with Bon traditions. The trek also features high-altitude adventure, diverse landscapes and wildlife, and several days of tent camping.
CANCELLATION
- 20% of the trip cost will be charged for the confirmed trip getting canceled.
- 50% of the trip cost will be charged if canceled between 30 to 10 days before the trip departure date.
- No refund if canceled within 10 days of the trip date or in the case of not showing.
- Regrettably, in the case where the trek/tour cannot be completed due to the customer’s own problem, sickness, or unfavorable weather, there will be no refund.
- If the trekking/tour is extended more than the given itinerary extra charge will be applied accordingly.
- If the agreed trip cannot be organized due to bad weather or any unforeseen events, a similar trip will be organized (in mutual understanding with the travelers).
