Upper Dolpo Trek – Remote Wilderness and Sacred Landscapes in Western Nepal
- Tsering Tamang
- May 12
- 2 min read
Trip Overview
Join NepalWhispers on an unforgettable 28-day expedition through Upper Dolpo, one of Nepal's most isolated and culturally rich regions. This trek is ideal for seasoned adventurers seeking raw Himalayan beauty, high-altitude challenges, and authentic encounters with ancient Tibetan Buddhist and Bon-po cultures.
Upper Dolpo remains one of the last true wilderness areas in Nepal. This challenging route takes you over multiple high passes above 5,000 meters including Nangdalo Pass (5,350m), Sela La (5,094m), Mo La (5,027m), and Jungben-La (5,550m). Explore spectacular valleys, sacred gompas, medieval villages, turquoise lakes like Phoksundo, and isolated communities that still trade with Tibet.
Experience the grandeur of Shey Gompa, trek across the windswept Panzang Valley, and complete your journey at Jomsom, after crossing over a dozen rugged passes and alpine meadows. This is one of the most rewarding long-distance treks in Nepal, combining untouched nature, diverse ethnic culture, and high-Himalayan adventure.
Upper Dolpo Trek Itinerary (Juphal–Jomsom via Shey Gompa & Panzang Valley)
Day 01–04: Kathmandu arrival, briefing, fly to Nepalgunj, then to Juphal. Trek begins to Dunai.
Day 05–08: Trek from Dunai to Phoksundo Lake via Chhepka and Chunuwar. Rest day to explore the stunning lake.
Day 09–12: Trek to Shey Gompa via Sallaghari, High Camp, and Nangdalo Pass ( 5,350m).
Day 13–17: Cross Sela La Pass to reach Saldang, explore Yangjer Gompa, then head to Khoma and Shimen.
Day 18–21: Trek through Tinje, Yak Kharka, and Chharka Bhot via Mo La and Jungben- La Pass (5,550m).
Day 22–24: Trek via Santa and Phalyak to reach Jomsom.
Day 25–28: Fly or drive to Pokhara, then return to Kathmandu. Farewell dinner and departure.
What’s Included
Domestic flights: Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Juphal / Jomsom–Pokhara–Kathmandu
All overland transport by private vehicle and local jeep
6 nights in hotels (Kathmandu, Nepalgunj, Pokhara), with breakfast
All meals and twin-sharing tented accommodation during the trek
English-speaking guide, cook, kitchen crew, porters, and necessary support staff
Trekking permits: Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, National Park Entry
All camping gear: tents, dining setup, kitchen equipment
Medical kit, staff insurance, porter allowance (10kg per member)
All applicable government taxes and service charge
Trek Highlights
Cross 5+ Himalayan passes over 5,000 meters
Discover sacred Shey Gompa and Crystal Mountain
Trek through Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal’s most beautiful lakes
Experience the ancient Bon and Tibetan Buddhist cultures
Remote valleys, medieval villages, and traditional yak caravans
Pure wilderness adventure with NepalWhispers