Upper Dolpo Camping Trek

Embark on the extraordinary Upper Dolpo Camping Trek—an awe-inspiring 26-day adventure that takes you through one of Nepal’s most remote and spiritually rich landscapes. Tucked away in the breathtaking trans-Himalayan wilderness near the Tibetan plateau, Upper Dolpo is a rare gem where untouched natural beauty and ancient Bonpo heritage coexist. Prepare to challenge yourself as you traverse rugged terrain, sacred high passes, and serene valleys, all while encountering yak caravans and welcoming mountain communities that offer a glimpse into their timeless ways of life. With a dedicated support crew and fully-equipped camping, you’ll explore the enchanting turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake, visit historic monasteries like Shey Gompa, and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of Dolpo’s Bon and Tibetan Buddhist people. This trek is more than just a physical journey; it’s a transformative experience that invites you to escape the everyday and dive into the spiritual and geographical extremes of Nepal. Whether you’re an adventurer at heart or a culture enthusiast, the Upper Dolpo Camping Trek promises to leave an indelible mark on your soul. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover this hidden paradise!

Trip Highlights

Explore the pristine turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake and the sacred grounds of Shey Gompa
Cross three high Himalayan passes: Kang La (5,360m), Sela La, and Jeng La (5,110m)
Encounter ancient Bonpo villages and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries rarely touched by modern influence
Camp in stunning wilderness, surrounded by dramatic gorges, alpine meadows, and yak herder pastures
Enjoy a fully supported expedition, including fresh meals, private camping, and domestic flights

Upper Dolpo Camping Trek Itinerary (26 Days)

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)

Meet and greet at the airport
Hotel transfer, trek briefing, and welcome dinner

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Prep

Guided tour of UNESCO sites (Swoyambhunath and Kathmandu Durbar Square)
Gear check and trek preparation

Day 3: Fly to Nepalgunj (150m)

Short flight to western Nepal
Overnight stay in Nepalgunj

Day 4: Fly to Juphal, Trek to Dunai (2,140m)

Scenic mountain flight
Trek along the Bheri River to Dunai

Day 5: Trek to Chhepka (2,670m)

Enter Shey Phoksundo National Park
Walk through lush forests and riverside trails

Day 6: Trek to Jharana Viewpoint (3,370m)

Hike to the dramatic waterfall below Phoksundo Lake
Camp near the scenic viewpoint

Day 7: Trek to Ringmo/Phoksundo Lake (3,600m)

Reach the beautiful turquoise lake
Visit Ringmo village and the 900-year-old Tshowa Gompa

Day 8: Rest Day at Phoksundo Lake

Acclimatisation and lake exploration
Visit a Bonpo monastery

Day 9: Trek to Forest Camp (3,650m)

Begin Upper Dolpo trail
Trek along narrow cliff-side paths

Day 10: Trek to Kang La Base Camp (4,430m)

Trek to the foot of the Kang La Pass
Camp in alpine meadows

Day 11: Cross Kang La (5,360m), Trek to Shey Gompa (4,340m)

Cross high pass with panoramic views
Descend into the sacred Shey Valley

Day 12: Rest Day at Shey Gompa

Explore Shey Monastery and Crystal Mountain
Rest and acclimatise

Day 13: Trek to Namgung (4,430m)

Cross Sela La Pass
Visit isolated Namgung village

Day 14: Trek to Saldang (3,900m)

Walk through barren terrain to Upper Dolpo’s largest village
Visit Saldang monastery

Day 15: Trek to Yangze (4,200m)

Optional detour to the well-preserved Bonpo village
Cultural exploration

Day 16: Trek back to Sibu (4,000m)

Rejoin main trail
Camp near yak pastures

Day 17: Trek to Jeng La Base Camp (4,400m)

Steady ascent to base of the pass

Day 18: Cross Jeng La (5,110m), Trek to Tokyu Gaon (4,200m)

Cross the final high pass
Camp in traditional Tokyu village

Day 19: Trek to Dho Tarap (4,090m)

Visit monasteries and local homes in Dho Tarap

Day 20: Trek to Nawarpani (3,545m)

Descend through narrow gorges and rivers

Day 21: Trek to Laini (3,160m)

Continue along the Tarap Khola
Pass waterfalls and pine forests

Day 22: Trek to Tarakot (2,540m)

Reach ancient fortress village on the Bheri River

Day 23: Trek to Dunai (2,140m)

Return to the administrative centre

Day 24: Trek to Juphal, Fly to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu

Final trek and double flight back to Kathmandu

Day 25: Buffer Day in Kathmandu

Optional sightseeing or souvenir shopping

Day 26: Final Departure

Airport transfer for international flight

What's Included in Our Package

Domestic flights: Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Juphal (round-trip)
Special permits: Upper Dolpo RAP, Shey Phoksundo National Park
Licensed trekking guide, cook, porters, and full camping crew
All meals during the trek (freshly cooked daily)
High-quality tents, mattresses, kitchen and dining setup
Toilet tent and basic shower tent
3 nights in a Kathmandu hotel with breakfast
Kathmandu sightseeing with entrance fees
All airport transfers

What's Not Included in Our Package

International airfare
Personal trekking gear and clothing
Travel insurance (compulsory)
Tips for staff (guide, porters, kitchen crew)
Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi)
Emergency evacuation or medical expenses

Gear List for Upper Dolpo Camping Trek

Clothing

2-3 moisture-wicking trekking shirts
Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
Fleece or softshell jacket
Down jacket (for high-altitude nights)
Waterproof shell jacket and pants
Trekking trousers (light and warm)
Woollen hat, sunhat, and buff or neck gaiter
Gloves (inner and insulated outer)

Footwear

Well-broken-in trekking boots
Camp shoes or sandals
4–5 pairs of woollen and liner socks
Gaiters (optional, for snow)

Accessories

UV-protective sunglasses
Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
Trekking poles
Reusable water bottles or a hydration bladder
Sleeping bag (rated -15°C or lower)
Headlamp with extra batteries

Toiletries & Health

Biodegradable soap and shampoo
Toothbrush, toothpaste
Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
Quick-dry towel
Basic first aid kit
Personal medications
Water purification tablets or a filter

Electronics & Documents

Passport and visa copies
Insurance papers
Power bank and charging cables
Camera or phone
Small notebook and pen

Tips & Considerations

Permits & Regulations: This is a restricted area—advance permits and a licensed guide are mandatory.
Acclimatisation: High altitude requires careful pacing. Our itinerary includes rest days for safety.
Fitness: This is a challenging trek; cardiovascular fitness and multi-day hiking experience are recommended.
Customisation: You can shorten, extend, or add cultural activities—tailor it to your travel style.
Weather: The best window is late summer (August to September) to avoid snow-blocked passes.

Reach Out to Us!

Book Your Upper Dolpo Camping Trek Now!

We specialise in remote treks, cultural immersion, and wilderness logistics. Our team knows Dolpo like the back of their hand, and we’re all about making your journey yours—add an extra day at Phoksundo, explore hidden gompas, or bring a documentary crew. We’re here to support your version of this trek. Let’s craft your perfect expedition into the wild, mystical landscapes of Upper Dolpo.