Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek

You start early in the morning with a short mountain flight from Nepalgunj to Jhupal, the entrance to the Dolpo region. Air travel provides spectacular scenery of mountains, valleys, and distant mountains covered with snow. Jhupal is located at 2,475 m / 8,120 ft and is the primary point of beginning for the trekkers in Dolpo.

The trekking adventure starts after landing. The path is a slow one down steep terraced fields and rural villages. You pass through the Thuli Bheri River valley, where there are local houses and barley farms, where people live in accordance with their traditional style.

The trail is generally easy, and you will progressively get used to the rising terrain. You can come across friendly locals and a mule train along the way carrying supplies.

Within hours of walking, you arrive at Dunai, which is the administrative center of Dolpo. This village by the river provides a good initial night at the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek.

The trek today extends further into the Dolpo region as the trail follows the Thuli Bheri River. After breakfast in Dunai, the way passes through forests and classic mountain villages.

The path takes one through pine and walnut trees, and the sound of the river is heard on the path. You will see mule transport between villages along this part of the trail.

The initial section of the trek is quite easy, and trekkers can have time to take in the serene environment and get used to the altitude. The path gradually becomes steep towards Ankhe as the day goes on.

Certain portions of the road narrow with a cliffy ledge above the river valley. You arrive at Ankhe (2,896 m / 9,501 ft) in the afternoon. It is a small village in the middle of hills and natural beauty.

This day is more of an adventure because the trek is done through narrow paths cut through the steep rocky hillsides along the riverbank. The path encompasses several highs and lows, and the walk is more difficult than the day before.

Trekkers go through thick forests and rough landscapes as they trace the Suligad River valley. In certain areas, the path cuts through wooden bridges and rocky roads, which one should step on carefully.

The terrain is impressive in spite of its difficulty. This is a scenic natural landscape made up of waterfalls, deep gorges, and unspoiled forests.

The road passes down the Sulighat slowly, at 2,100 m / 6,890 ft. This is the place where the Shey Phoksundo National Park, which is the biggest national park in Nepal, begins. Sulighat offers a serene camping experience along the riverbank where the trekkers stop and have their sleep before they proceed to Phoksundo Lake.

It is one of the most thrilling days in the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek today when you arrive at the beautiful Phoksundo Lake. The trail ascends slowly through pine and cedar forest, tracing the Suligad River.

The trekkers also cross the highest waterfall in Nepal, which cascades down the valley on high cliffs. The walk is very memorable due to the sound of rushing water and the mountain scenery that surrounds it.

As the path moves further up the mountain, the turquoise hue of the Phoksundo Lake gradually emerges amid the mountains. The lake is located at an elevation of 3,611 m / 11,847 ft and is said to be one of the most beautiful lakes in Nepal.

Close to the lake is Ringmo village, a classic village with Tibetan houses. The serene lake scene provides an ideal atmosphere for staying overnight.

Today will be an acclimatization day. You will spend more time at Phoksundo Lake so that your body will get used to the higher altitude and then proceed further into the Dolpo region.

Phoksundo Lake, located at 3,611 m / 11,847 ft, is known for its bright turquoise waters and dramatic mountains and cliffs.

Following breakfast, you will be able to tour the village of Ringmo, which is a traditional village with Tibetan influence. The village consists of stone houses, prayer flags, mani walls and tiny monasteries.

Several brief hikes along the lake are advisable in order to aid in acclimatization. There are amazing sceneries of the surrounding mountains and forests as one walks along the lakeside.

This day is very relaxing and gives a wonderful opportunity to heal in the natural beauty of Dolpo because of the peaceful environment.

Upon witnessing the beauty of the Phoksundo Lake, the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek moves on an exciting path that is located above the lake. It is a rugged trail cut through steep precipices, which shows some magnificent glimpses of the deep blue water beneath.

The path slowly leaves the lakeside and climbs the valley of the Phoksundo Khola river. The terrain becomes deeper and more distant as the trek enters mountainous areas.

Trekking along, the visitors encounter high cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine nature. Villages are infrequent as the road cuts off into more remote mountain districts.

At midday, you arrive at Phoksundo Khola Camp at approximately 3,700 m / 12,139 ft. The camp is located in a peaceful natural location on the bank of the river with a spectacular mountainous background.

Today, the trek enters more high-altitude terrains with the trail running on the upper Dolpo valley of Phoksundo Khola. The road leads slowly upward, through the rocky parts and the open country mountain pastures.

As you go, you can spot yaks and sheep grazing on the broad valley. The higher a person goes, the colder the air and the more striking the scenery is.

The road features easy ascents on the river and elevated terrain. The valley is surrounded by snow-clad mountains and bare hills at high places.

Towards late afternoon, you reach Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4120 m / 13517 ft). The mountain views and the rocky hills that surround this high campsite are wide. Staying here helps trekkers prepare for the upcoming high pass and the next part of the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek.

It is considered to be one of the most rewarding days of the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek today. The route ascends consistently up to Kang La Pass, 5,360 m / 17,585 ft, which is one of the highest points in the trip. It is difficult due to the altitude, yet the scenery is spectacular and makes it worth climbing.

On the way up to the mountains, the scenery expands and opens up to Himalayan expanses of snow-white peaks and distant valleys.

There are multiple colorful prayer flags that move in the wind, creating a certain calm and spiritual atmosphere. Trekking in this direction, the trekkers can have the stunning panoramic outlook of the Dolpo region. The trail leads downwards to the sacred Shey Valley after a short time at the pass. The landscape transforms to expansive valleys with monuments and stonework of ancient Buddhism.

Lastly, there is the Shey Gompa at 4,343 m / 14249 ft, which is a historic monastery and one of the spiritual locations in the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek.

The trek involves another day of acclimatization today, as your body gets used to the altitudes of Shey Gompa. This holy monastery is more than 800 years old, and it is a significant spiritual hub of the Dolpo people. The natural environment is tranquil, thus making it an ideal resting and touring spot.

You may go to the monastery after breakfast and get to witness the traditional practice of Buddhism. The area is adorned with prayer flags, mani stones, and chortens, indicating the high spiritual culture of the area. The valley is also referred to as the Crystal Mountain Valley, which is a religious site that is visited by pilgrims.

Trails along the valley are useful in acclimatization, and they have spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the open landscapes. These light walks assist the body to acclimate itself to the elevation and proceed with the hike.

The Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek leaves the holy Shey Valley and goes towards Namduna Gaon. The path ascends slowly up to Saldang La Pass (4,785 m / 15,698 ft). This part goes through expansive mountainous terrain with scenic mountainous scenery and open plains.

The trail crosses the pass and leads down into a large valley where small settlements and pastures are observed. The landscape echoes the common trans-Himalayan setup of Dolpo, which is characterized by arid hills and mountain ranges in the distance.

Trekkers move in isolated villages where the culture of Tibet is still very strong. The trail is adorned with prayer flags, chortens, and mani walls that signify the spiritual history of the area.

Afternoon, you arrive at Namduna Gaon at 4,800 m / 15,748 ft. The small village, which has a monastery close by, is a perfect location to relax during the trek.

The journey is shorter and easier than the previous trekking days. The path is an easy way up and down broad valleys and dry hills, which are the characteristics of Dolpo.

Looking as you walk, you will find the old stone houses, small farms, and grazing grounds where you will find the yaks and sheep grazing. The locals of this place depend on animal herding and farming to earn their living. The landscape is open, offering clear views of the mountains and high plateaus around it.

In a couple of hours, you reach Saldang at 3,770 m / 12,369 ft. At Saldang, one of the largest villages of the Upper Dolpo, you will find the main trading post. In the village, there are several monasteries and tightly fitting traditional houses.

The trek is towards Yangze Gompa today, which is among the oldest monasteries in Dolpo. The route is fairly smooth over the open valleys and in small settlements where the Tibetan culture is firmly held.

Trekking along the route, you see chortens, prayer flags, and mani walls as evidence of the rich Buddhist culture of the region. It is a wide landscape that is dry with mountains in the distance that creates a dramatic background.

One may frequently see local people engaged in activities like working in the fields or leading the yak caravans across the valley. This part of the trek is quite pleasant due to the calm nature.

In a few hours of walking, you come to Yangze Gompa, at 4 960 m / 16 273 ft. The local people have a place of worship here, and it is an excellent site to stay with the serene and beautiful environment of this important monastery.

After parting ways from the Yangze Gompa, the trek passes across remote mountain valleys. The road gradually goes down through barren hills and along the river valley.

Trekkers go through tiny communities and pastures where the yaks and sheep are frequently seen. The walk is very pleasant owing to the peaceful scenery and expansive valleys.

The mani walls and prayer flags are traditionally found on the road, which demonstrate the high cultural traditions of the Dolpo region. The trail is greener towards the river as one goes further.

Several hours of walking take you to the camp at Sibu, which is standing at 4,560 m / 14,960 ft. The campsite is on the banks of the river and can be used to have a peaceful rest before going through another high mountain pass.

The trek continues today to the base of Jeng La Pass. The trail takes the Nam Khong Khola valley and ascends slowly through a far-flung mountain terrain.

The trail passes through grassy fields where yaks often graze peacefully. The nature surrounding the area is made up of broad valleys, rocky hills, and snow-covered mountains in the distance.

There are not many settlements in this part of the trek, which demonstrates the remoteness of the Dolpo region. The gradual ascent will ensure that trekkers walk at their own pace and the surrounding is serene.

In the afternoon, you arrive at Jeng La Phedi (4,900 m / 16,076 ft). It is a camp that is located at the foot of Jeng La Pass and is used to acclimatize the trekkers for the difficult pass they are going to cross the next day.

It is one of the most interesting days of the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek in which you cross Jeng La Pass at 5,090 m / 16,699 ft. It starts early and ascends slowly through rocky alpine landscapes.

On reaching the summit of the pass, you see before you in the distance the snow-covered mountain peaks and deep valleys of the Himalayas. Colored prayer flags at the top provide a spiritual view.

It is then followed by the trail to the Tarap Valley after the astonishing panoramic view. The terrain becomes expansive grasslands and open valleys, where the yaks are grazing.

Soon enough, you arrive at Tokyu Gaon 4,240 m / 13,910 ft. The village is among the permanent settlements that are at the highest altitude in Dolpo and provides an insight into the traditional Tibetan culture.

You will move towards Tarap Valley, which is very large and beautiful. Leaving Tokyu Gaon at 4,240 m / 13,910 ft, the trail goes through a smooth path through open fields and small villages.

This part of the trek is less demanding, and it gives the trekkers time to appreciate the serene environment. The Tarap Valley boasts a rich culture that is of Tibetan Buddhism and Bon traditions.

The trail will be lined up with monasteries, mani walls, and colorful prayer flags. This area is full of yak herders and small communities of farmers.

Several hours of walking led to the Dho Tarap at 4,080 m / 13,386 ft. This is the most significant cultural center in Dolpo and the biggest village in the valley.

It is the other acclimatization day in the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek. Resting there for a day at Dho Tarap assists trekkers in getting used to the elevation of 4,080 m / 13,386 ft and prepares them for the trip.

Dho Tarap is located in a small valley with mountains and grazing fields of green. The trekkers can visit the village after breakfast and watch the traditional life of the people.

The village is characterized by a distinctive culture, which practices Tibetan Buddhism and the Bon religion at the same time. The settlement has monasteries, prayer wheels, and mani stones.

It is recommended to acclimatize by taking short walks around the valley. These walks present the beautiful scenes of the mountains nearby and relaxing scenery.

The trek now leaves the broad Tarap Valley and takes the path along the Tarap Khola river. The road leads down slowly, through small valleys and rocky formations. Going further along the valley, the landscape gradually transforms into hilly-side canyon and deep valleys.

The route runs between small pastures where shepherds usually come with their yaks and sheep in the warmer seasons. You see the river with the beauty of rocky cliffs and spectacular rock beds. The flow of water and the calm environment give one a relaxing hiking experience.

The valley gets narrower and farther away as the day goes by. A few hours of walking take you to the camp at Tarap Khola (3,700 m / 12,139 ft). The camp is located along the river and is a peaceful resting place.

The trek goes towards Khani Goan on this day. The trail has a considerable number of ups and downs because it passes through narrow passages along rocky cliffs and forested hillsides. The trail is adventurous and it gives a great view of the deep river gorge below.

It is a trail that goes through small wooden bridges and rocks, which require one to pass by with a lot of care. Whether it is rugged terrain or not, the Dolpo region is a very beautiful area to traverse and the journey is very pleasant.

Another thing to see is the birds and wild animals, which roam the woods of the Shey Phoksundo National Park.

The valley slowly opens up after a few hours of walking, and the landscape becomes greener. At last, you come to Khani Gaon (3,150 m / 10,335 ft), a small village nestled between hills and forests and serving as a peaceful overnight stopping place.

The trek is also followed today towards Tarakot along the river valley, which leads to lower areas. The landscape gradually evolves, and there is more greenery, small farms, and isolated settlements that emerge on the path.

You walk through pine and juniper forests with the sight of the hills and river valleys around. The trail on this part of the trek is more comfortable and easier to walk than the high-altitude parts.

On the route, you can come across a mule carrying goods between villages, which is also still a significant mode of transport in this isolated area.

You reach Tarakot, at 2,540 m / 8,333 ft., after some hours of walking. Previously, this ancient village had been a major trading point in the old salt trading route between Nepal and Tibet.

The Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek route still follows the Bheri River valley on the way to Dunai. The path goes through forests, small villages, and terraced agricultural areas where people cultivate crops.

The walk is largely pleasant and easy-going as the trek enters more fertile terrain at a lower elevation. Trekkers traverse suspension bridges and go by old villages where people live almost the same way they had lived generations before.

After several hours of trekking, you return to Dunai at 2,140 m / 7,021 ft, marking the end of the main Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek journey.

It is the last day of the Dolpo region. The track leads the same way down the valley of the Thuli Bheri River back to Jhupal. The road then ascends slowly through the villages, terraces, and wooded hills.

On the pathway, you could encounter the locals of the village toiling in their farms or driving animals through the valley. This last walk is most pleasant due to the picture of green hills and running rivers in peace.

A few hours of walking bring you to Jhupal (2,475m / 8,120 ft). This is a small mountain airstrip, which forms the primary access point between the Dolpo region and Nepalgunj. Tonight, you will spend the last night in the mountains before you go back to the city.

It is the end of the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek today with an early morning flight from Jhupal to Nepalgunj. The mountain flight is a short aerial trip around rugged hills and deep valleys in the west of Nepal.

Once you have landed in Nepalgunj (150 m / 492 ft), you join another flight heading back to Kathmandu. On the way back, you have the chance to see rivers and green hills and scattered settlements once again.

The trekking journey is officially over at Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft). The remaining part of the day may be spent by means of relaxation in your hotel, sightseeing the city, or you can celebrate the successful completion of the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek.