The Upper Dolpo trek route is not simply a line on a map; it is an odyssey into myth, wilderness and altitude.
The trek leads you into remote valleys of Dolpo, tucked away in the far northwestern regions of Nepal, where ancient trade routes once carried salt and wool from Nepal to Tibet.
Today, the trek will take you past turquoise lakes, rustic villages and high passes where few outsiders will ever venture.
At Bold Adventures Nepal, we have taken many adventurers down this route for years, and one thing we know for certain: Dolpo will not only test your endurance, but also nourish your soul.
Quick Facts (in summary)
Total trekking distance in Upper Dolpo: approx. 230-280 km (depending on the specific circuit).
Total trekking days: Approx. 18-25 days (including acclimatization and rest days).
Highest point you will reach: Kang La Pass (5,360 m).
Daily walking time on average: 6-9 hours.
Trekking style: Full camping trek (little to no tea houses).
Upper Dolpo is a remote, rain-shadow area of the Dhaulagiri mountain range bordering the Tibetan plateau.
The Upper Dolpo trek route begins with a short mountain flight to Juphal before heading through Dunai, the turquoise jewel of Phoksundo Lake, the sacred valley of Shey Gompa and remote villages, such as Saldang and Dho Tarap.
Every day you will feel like you are making your way into another planet – from silent canyons and prayer-flag strewn ridges, to villages where people still carry on a lifestyle similar to their ancestors.
The trekking route for Upper Dolpo trek feels completely unspoiled.
In fact, you could be walking for days without meeting another trekking group.
It’s so unspoiled that it gives you a sense of true solitude and authenticity that other trekking areas do not have.
Did You Know? The Oscar-nominated film Caravan (Himalaya) was also filmed in Dolpo and captures the stark beauty of Dolpo’s cliffs, passes and yak caravans.
Where Is Upper Dolpo? Geography & Access Points
The Upper Dolpo area is a secret land in the northwest corner of Nepal.
Upper Dolpo is situated behind the massive Dhaulagiri mountain range and is located in a rainshadow zone, meaning it receives very little moisture and is characterized by dryness, windswept conditions and a desert-like landscape.
This geography gives it the feeling of being on the Tibetan plateau, rather than within the lush green hills that most trekkers associate with the Himalayas.
One of the bits that makes the Upper Dolpo trek route so special is also the things that make it so difficult: there are no direct roads.
You can enter and exit the Upper Dolpo region only by air or on foot.
Note: You must obtain the Upper Dolpo trek permit to enter the region, as well as have a licensed guide and be in a group of 2 people.
Trekkers will fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then do a very short (but unforgettable) mountain flight to Juphal, the tiny airstrip above the Bheri River valley.
From here, the Upper Dolpo trek journey begins on foot, first to Dunai, the district headquarters, then into Shey Phoksundo National Park.
Quick Geography Overview:
Location: Northwestern Nepal, Dolpa District.
Protected Area: Shey Phoksundo National Park.
Border: Touches Tibet on the north boundary.
Landscape: High altitude desert, canyons, turquoise-coloured lakes, and high passes over 5,000 m.
Villages: Ringmo, Saldang, Dho Tarap, and more remote villages.
North to Mustang or west to Rara? Alternative Routes Options
The classic Upper Dolpo trek itinerary feels like a lifetime accomplishment in itself, but many trekkers extend their journey if they are able to.
Upper Dolpo to Upper Mustang trek: A spectacular extension north that connects the hidden valleys of Dolpo to the red cliffs in Mustang and cave monasteries. This Upper Dolpo Hidden Valley trek would add about 7-10 days, creating one of Nepal’s most remarkable long circuits.
Rara Lake to Upper Dolpo trek: A wild option west that combines Dolpo with the largest lake in Nepal. Rara is known as the “Queen of Lakes”. It reflects forests and peaks like a sapphire mirror. Depending on the length, this could take the excursion out to a month or more!
Both variations will extend the distance of Upper Dolpo trek and also deepen your experience.
While Mustang would highlight the culture of Tibetan medieval times, Rara Lake would be a serene and alpine beauty.
Regardless of which option you choose, Dolpo offers unmatched remoteness and exploration.
This trek will appeal to people looking for something a little more than the normal expedition, whether it is comparing the Upper Dolpo vs Lower Dolpo trek, or just chasing the ultimate adventure of a lifetime.
Daily Route with Distance & Elevation Gain
Every step taken on the Upper Dolpo trek route unfolds a new chapter.
The Upper Dolpo trek is long and legendary due to the high passes, sacred valleys and remote villages.
Here is the 26-day Upper Dolpo trek itinerary, where you can find the daily Upper Dolpo trek distance and elevations.
| Day | Route | Approximate Trek Distance (kilometers) | Elevation (meters) | Highlights |
| 1 | Kathmandu arrival | – | 1,400 | Welcome and Orientation |
| 2 | Kathmandu sightseeing and trek preparation | – | 1,400 | UNESCO sites and gear check |
| 3 | Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj | – | 150 | Last stop before Dolpo |
| 4 | Fly from Nepalgunj to Jupha, then trek to Dunai | 4-5 | 2,140 | First trekking day, Bheri River |
| 5 | Trek from Dunai to Chhepka | 14 | 2,670 | Entering Shey Phoksundo National Park |
| 6 | Trek from Chhepka to Chunuwar | 13 | 3,000 | Forest trails and Amchi (healer) hospital |
| 7 | Trek from Chunuwar to Phoksundo Lake(Ringmo | 12 | 3,611 | Nepal’s deepest and most beautiful lakes |
| 8 | Acclimatization Day | – | 3,611 | Discover Bon village and the sacred lake |
| 9 | Trek from Phoksundo to Sallaghari | 10 | 3,730 | Cliffside trails and camp among pine |
| 10 | Trek from Sallaghari to Kang La High Camp | 9 | 4,700 | Base before high pass |
| 11 | Cross Kang La Pass and reach Shey Gompa | 14 | 5,360 | Sacred Crystal Mountain and Monastery |
| 12 | Shey Ghompa to Namgung vi Shey La | 13 | 5,000 | Remote valleys and cliff monastery |
| 13 | Trek from Namgung to Saldang | 8 | 3,900 | The largest village of Dolpo |
| 14 | Acclimatization Day | – | 3,900 | Cultural experience, visiting some monasteries |
| 15 | Saldang to Komash Village | 12 | 4,060 | Traditional settlements and high trails |
| 16 | Trek from Komash to Shimen | 14 | 3,850 | Wider valleys and yak caravans |
| 17 | Shimen to Tinje Village | 15 | 4,110 | Ancient trade routes |
| 18 | Tinje to Yak Kharka | 13 | 4,000 | Alpine pastures and grazing land |
| 19 | Yak Kharka to Tokyu via Choila Pass | 16 | 5,050 | The longest and hardest high pass of the trek |
| 20 | Tokyu to Dho Tarap | 8 | 3,944 | High altitude settlements and monasteries |
| 21 | Resting and Exploring Day in Dho Tarap | – | 3,944 | Life in the village, culture, recovery |
| 22 | Dho Tarap to Nawarpani | 18 | 3,475 | Canyon trails and river valley |
| 23 | Nawarpani to Lashicap | 14 | 2,750 | Forests and greener valleys |
| 24 | Trek from Lashicap to Dunai | 15 | 2,140 | Return, headquarters of the district |
| 25 | Trek from Dunai to Juphal | 5-6 | 2,475 | Last trek and celebration |
| 26 | Flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj to KTM | – | 1,400 | Return to city comforts |
Key Sections of the Upper Dolpo Trekking Trail
The Upper Dolpo trek route is best classified into four stunning sections:
Section 1 — The Approach (Juphal to Phoksundo Lake)
This section gives you a relaxed stroll along the Bheri River and through woods to Phoksondo – Nepal’s most beautiful alpine lake.
This section acclimatizes your body to altitude and introduces you to the very first gems of the Upper Dolpo region.
Section 2 – The Sacred Heart (Phoksundo to Shey Gompa)
It is here that you stitch the trek into legend.
You cross Kang La Pass (5,360 m) – a real trial for anyone inexperienced in high country.
Having crossed the pass, Shey Gompa and the holy Crystal Mountain, spiritual heart of Dolpo, lie ahead.
Section 3 – The Hidden Valleys (Shey to Tinje)
Massive barren valleys are seen with villages like Saldang and Shimen scattered all over them.
This part of the Upper Dolpo trekking route feels like a living museum of Bon and Buddhist ways with centuries-long practices.
Section 4 – The Descent (Tinje to Juphal)
Crossing the Choila Pass, you have entered Dho Tarap – one of the world’s highest continuous settlements.
You will be on narrow single-track canyon trails and forest trails that lead you back to Juphal, closing the loop in old-school expedition style.
Daily Elevation Map and High Passes
The Upper Dolpo trek route contains great distances, but it’ll also follow steep ascents and descents along dramatic mountains and valleys.
Along with the distance, trekkers will ascend a series of high passes above 5,000 meters and witness breathtaking vistas of the Dhaulagiri mountain range and the untouched beauty of the Tibetan plateau.
Why do you need to pay attention to the elevation profile?
The Upper Dolpo trek distance may seem attainable on paper (230-280 km), but the true challenge lies in the elevation.
Trekkers are routinely climbing between 600-1,000 meters over a day and, of course, descending back before setting up camp.
This up-and-down rhythm is what makes the difficulty of the Upper Dolpo trek higher than the typical high or long treks in Nepal.
Noteworthy High Passes on the Trail
Kang La Pass (5,360 m): The highest and most picturesque crossing from Phoksundo to Shey. From the summit, you can see prayer flags flapping wildly in the wind and panoramic views out to Crystal Mountain.
Shey La Pass (5,000 m): A large saddle toward Namgung and a view that panned over barren ridges out into Mustang.
Choila North Pass (5,050 m): A quieter climb, but equally as challenging with the opening to the Tokyu Valley.
Dho Tarap (3,944 m): One of the highest permanent communities in the world and an indication that we can live at.
Did You Know? Temperatures can sometimes dip below freezing at Kang La Pass in the autumn due to the winds. Many trekkers believe that being at 5,360 m, in total silence, is the most memorable moment of the entire Upper Dolpo Trek.
When to Acclimatize for Altitude Safety?
Altitude is the most significant factor in Dolpo.
A well-conditioned trekker still needs time to acclimatize.
Effective itineraries, like the one that Bold Adventures Nepal created, are packed with acclimatization days at Phoksundo Lake and Dho Tarap.
Consider these suggestions to help you stay safe:
- Keep a steady, slow pace.
- Drink a lot of fluids (soup, garlic tea and be sure to drink plenty of water).
- Be aware of signs of altitude sickness: headache, nausea or dizziness.
- Don’t cheat on your rest days despite your eagerness to trek.
Pro Tip: Many trekkers have found trekking poles beneficial for the steep ascents and descents of Dolpo’s passes. Trekking poles help protect your knees and offer stability on rocky trails.
Natural & Cultural Highlights Along the Route
The Upper Dolpo trek route is not just long days of walking and high passes; it takes you through some of Nepal’s most incredible wilderness and sacred cultural sites.
From turquoise lakes, ancient trees, cliffside monasteries and tribal people, the Upper Dolpo region offers many stories waiting to be discovered.
Wildlife & Scenery of Shey Phoksundo National Park
Shey Phoksundo National Park, which dominates almost the entire Dolpo district, is undoubtedly the highlight of this trek.
Shey Phoksundo National Park protects a plethora of flora and fauna in an impressive setting – the alpine forests, open meadows, glacial rivers, and beautiful Phoksundo Lake.
It is a wild, dry valley that resembles the Tibetan plateau, and because of this, it feels entirely different from any other trek in Nepal.
Wildlife highlights you may see include:
- Blue sheep grazing on the ridges above.
- The secretive snow leopards – the guardians of Dolpo who remain unseen.
- Musk deer, Himalayan wolves, rare vultures – Himalayan griffons.
- Medicinal plants and alpine herbs used by healers.
Spiritual Landmarks: Crystal Mountain & Monasteries
The region of Dolpo is as spiritual as it is remote.
Crystal Mountain is a pilgrimage site where local people walk kora (ritual circuits) to wash away bad karma.
Monasteries like Shey Gompa, Namgung, and Yangze still exist unassumingly on sheer cliff faces.
This offers windows into ancient Bon and Buddhist observance that date back hundreds of years.
Some of the key memories along the way:
- Crystal Mountain – A sacred site, with countless prayer flags draping the stone boulders piled to form a distinction on the landscape.
- Shey Gompa (11th-century monastery) – Clouds and hills formed the “spiritual heart” of Dolpo.
- Namgung & Saldang Gompas – Cliffside monasteries filled with murals and relics.
- Ringmo Village – A bon settlement near Phoksundo Lake.
Did You Know? Pilgrims say that walking one circuit on Crystal Mountain equals walking one hundred circuits on Mount Kailash in Tibet. Dolpo is a deeply spiritual place of extreme significance.
What to Expect with Accommodation & Campsites
While you are walking the Upper Dolpo trek route, you will not find a system of tea houses or guest houses like other popular trekking destinations in Nepal.
This is a camping trek where you will sleep under the stars and beside rivers, which makes it both challenging and authentic.
Teahouses & Alternatives
In the lower villages of the Upper Dolpo region, such as Dunai or Ringmo, you will have tea house options.
However, accommodation is limited to basic meals and wooden beds.
Usually, you will sleep in shared room and there are rarely any facilities like a bathroom.
From Phoksundo Lake onwards, the trail is fully wilderness and you can no longer rely on tea houses.
This is why almost all trekkers will need full camping support: tents, a kitchen crew and porters carrying food and supplies for the trek.
Our team provides you with everything from insulated tents, foam mattresses, a dining tent, and daily, freshly prepared warm meals.
We also provide you with boiled water to fill your water bottles, arrangements for safe toilets, and great campsites in the most beautiful & secure places.
You will still need a warm sleeping bag because, if you are above 4,000 meters, there are cold nights and temperatures below freezing.
Route Difficulty & Preparation Guidance
The Upper Dolpo trek route is probably one of the hardest trek routes in Nepal.
Its remoteness, altitude and length make it quite different from most commercial trails such as Everest Base Camp and Annapurna.
To enjoy this journey, the trekkers will require the correct mindset, preparation and gear.
Who is this Trek Best Suited for?
This is not a trek suitable for novice trekkers.
The difficulty of the Upper Dolpo trek lies within the long trekking days, which can be between 6-9 hours of walking, at high passes above 5,000 meters and it is fully a camping trek, without access to roads, rescue or comforts.
Suitable for:
- Trekkers with experience and have completed high-altitude treks before.
- Adventure travelers want to discover remote, off-the-beaten-path areas.
- Unfamiliar trekking situations and comfortable camping with basic facilities.
- Groups wanting to discover and experience an authentic culture and not just part of the mainstream trekking experiences.
Essential Gear & Packing
The difference between pain and pleasure depends on good preparation and your Upper Dolpo trek packing list.
Packing and bringing the right gear is very important because after Dunai, there are no shops!
The essentials include:
- Sleeping bag (at least -15 °C, or warmer).
- Layers of clothing (base layer, fleece, down jacket, waterproof shell).
- Good trekking boots, broken in before your trek.
- Trekking poles for steep climbs and descents.
- A personal first aid kit and medication for altitude sickness.
Pro Tip: Travel light but wisely! When you’re crossing multiple high passes, every kilo matters! Bring only what is essential, and trust your guide team to carry everything else!
Best Time to Trek the Upper Dolpo Route
Choosing the appropriate season is one of the most important considerations when hiking the Upper Dolpo trek route.
Although the region is located in a rain shadow behind the Dhaulagiri massif, thus it remains drier than most parts of Nepal.
The Upper Dolpo trek weather plays a big role in your well-being and experience.
Trekking seasons
Spring (April – May):
This is one of the best times to trek in Dolpo. Snow has melted off the high passes, trails are virtually open and skies are often very clear.
The lower valleys bloom with many wildflowers, while the upper sections mostly feel dry and comfortable.
Autumn (September – October):
The most popular time to trek in Dolpo. The post-monsoon air is crisp and clear, providing excellent views of the Tibetan plateau and the Dhaulagiri mountain range.
From sunny days to cold nights (manageable with a quality sleeping bag).
Summer (June – August):
Although Dolpo has lower rainfall compared to other parts of Nepal, heavy rainfall on lower elevation muddy trails and flight delays to Juphal can ruin any plans you may have.
Winter (Nov- March):
This season is harsh, risky and mostly impractical. Snow on the Kang La Pass and surrounding crossings makes trekking nearly impossible.
Pro Tip: At Bold Adventures Nepal, we recommend planning to trek in spring or autumn. These windows allow for the safest trekking conditions, provide an opportunity for cultural encounters, and give the best chance to enjoy the long Upper Dolpo trek.
FAQs
How long is the full Upper Dolpo trek route?
The typical Upper Dolpo trek distance is roughly 230-280km, depending on which exact circuit you take.
Generally, you will spend 18-25 days trekking, plus travel and rest days.
What is the average daily trek distance?
There will be 10-18 km or about 6-9 hours of walking on rugged trails.
Some shorter days can be acclimatization days and the longer days crossing passes can be strenuous.
What is the highest pass on the trail?
The highest point on the trek is Kang La Pass (5,360 m).
The other major high passes are Shey La (5,000 m) and Choila (5,050 m).
Do I need special permits for Upper Dolpo?
Yes. The Upper Dolpo trek permit is a Restricted Area Permit, which costs about USD 500 for the first 10 days and USD 50 for each additional day.
You will also need to obtain the Shey Phoksundo National Park entry permit.
The permits can only be granted by a licensed agency.
Can I combine Upper Dolpo with Rara or Mustang?
Yes. There are several variations, like the Rara Lake to Upper Dolpo trek or Upper Dolpo to Upper Mustang trek.
But it can add an extra 10 to 15 days of trekking time, plus additional Permits.
Final Thoughts – Is the Upper Dolpo Trek Route Right for You?
The Upper Dolpo trek route is arduous, remote and a long way from modern conveniences, which is what makes it so amazing.
Your Upper Dolpo trek distance will exceed 230 km, navigating high passes, sacred valleys and ancient villages.
If you want silence, unspoiled terrain like the Tibetan plateau and spiritual landmarks such as Crystal Mountain, this Route is perfect for you.
At Bold Adventures Nepal, we take care of everything – permits, logistics and safety – while you enjoy the experience walking.
For those who live the journey, the Upper Dolpo Trek is way more than an adventure; it’s a legend.
So what are you waiting for?
Book your trek now!
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