
The Upper Dolpo Trek is situated in western Nepal's Dolpo area. It is a remote and isolated place that is located in the Himalayas' rain shadow. The journey is distinguished by its difficult terrain, deep valleys, high passes, and barren landscapes. Many magnificent peaks, including Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Kanjirowa (6,883 m), and Annapurna (8,091 m), can be found in the area.
The trail leads to Shey Phoksundo Lake, one of the trek's highlights, and begins at Juphal (2,475 m), a small airport in the Dolpo district. The lake, which is the deepest in all of Nepal, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, which serve to mirror the peaks in the area. The Dolpo people, who are renowned for their distinctive culture and way of life, live in a number of the villages along the trail, including Dunai, Tarakot, and Dho Tarap.
The Kang La Pass (5,350 m), the highest point of the climb, provides panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Dhaulagiri and Kanjirowa. Due to the high altitude and difficult terrain, the walk is difficult. Because of the area's propensity for landslides and snowstorms, it is crucial to trek with an experienced guide and the appropriate equipment.
The Upper Dolpo Trek begins in Juphal and travels across a number of extremely high passes, including Numa La and Baga La. It is a difficult walk because the trail winds over rocky terrain, deep valleys, and high passes.
The Upper Dolpo Trek requires a permit. The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) or a nearby trekking agency both sell trekking permits. In addition to trekking permits, the Upper Dolpo region also needs specific permits, which can be obtained from our agency.
The Upper Dolpo Trek requires quality climbing gear. Among the tools required are:
In order to negotiate the challenging terrain, it is also advised to have a GPS and a map with you.
Dolpo is one of the most beautiful treks in the remote areas of Nepal, very rarely visited by outsider. During the Upper Dolpo we start from Jhupal village, we begin this wonderful adventure, encountering interesting places, people, villages, valleys and serene forest of pines, oaks and rhododendron, the trek passes many gigantic mountain ranges and over the Numala pass at 5,400m till we reach the Phoksundo lake at Ringmo village in the "Phoksundo National Park".
At Ringmo, the highlight of our trip we will have two nights here to enjoy the beauty of the deep blue waters of the Phoksundo lake and the surrounding snow peaks of Kanjirowa Himalayan range, with time to visit the nearby isolated village of Ringmo and its Monastery.
Our classic journey continues to the amazing country of Crystal Mountain at Shey Gomba, following the ancient Trans Himalayan Trade route and back to Jhuphal for the flight back by an alternative route, giving you more opportunity to explore this fascinating wild west of Nepal Himalaya.
A diversity of flora and fauna, some of which are uncommon and endangered, can be found in the area. The terrain and climate of the Upper Dolpo region have a significant impact on the wildlife and vegetation that may be found there.
The endangered snow leopard is one of the most remarkable creatures to be found in the area. Tibetan wolves, musk deer, and Himalayan blue sheep are some of the other creatures that can be seen nearby. The region is especially fascinating for birdwatchers because it is home to a variety of bird species, including the Himalayan monal, Tibetan snowcock, and yellow-billed chough.
The Upper Dolpo region is home to a diverse range of plants, including medicinal herbs and plants. Lower levels have rhododendron forests, whereas higher elevations include alpine meadows and high-altitude deserts. Higher elevations have juniper and dwarf rhododendron shrubs, while alpine meadows feature saxifrage, gentians, and primroses, among other alpine species.
The Dolpo-pa people make their living through subsistence farming, animal husbandry, and trading. They follow a variety of Buddhism that has been greatly impacted by the Bon religion, which predominated in Tibet before Buddhism arrived. The Dolpo-pa are well recognized for their sophisticated weaving and the creation of yak-wool-based traditional apparel.
The residents of Upper Dolpo are renowned for their friendliness and unique festivals, which are significant components of their culture. The most well-known of these celebrations is the yearly Phoksundo Lake Festival, which honors the magnificence of the largest lake in the area and draws visitors from all across Dolpo.
Visitors should be respectful of the Dolpo-pa people's traditions and way of life because it is vital to notice that they have not had much exposure to contemporary conveniences and technology. Visitors are urged to become familiar with the customs and culture of the area and to interact meaningfully and respectfully with the locals.
Because of its remote and underdeveloped location in Nepal, Upper Dolpo has few and basic lodging options. Most hikers will stay in teahouses or homestays, which are modest lodgings with shared bathrooms and minimal amenities like beds. It's possible that some teahouses serve meals as well, but it's wise to pack your own snacks and water because there might not be enough on hand.
For those who want a more daring and flexible trek, there are a few camping choices available. You can engage a trekking company that offers all the required supplies and support, or you can carry your own tent and gear.
Upper Dolpo's remote location and sparse infrastructure make logistics there difficult. The best method to reach there is to take a domestic flight from Juphal, where the journey begins, to Nepalgunj. The trek is difficult, so you should come equipped with the right equipment and clothing for the high altitude and chilly weather.