Upper Dolpo Trekking

Upper Dolpo offers unique and challenging isolated region trekking experience for adventure enthusiasts seeking a remote path adventure. It is a popular trekking route located in the Dolpa district of western Nepal. The region was opened for trekking in 1989, but it still remains relatively untouched by modern development. Similarly, it is a high- altitude area with rugged landscapes, beautiful valleys, high mountain passes and deep Georges. 

Shey Phoksundo Lake is one of the major attractions of the upper Dolpo trek which is the deepest lake of Nepal. It is regarded as one of the most beautiful lakes and popular destination for photography and meditation. The lake is amazing turquoise blue lake surrounded by snow- capped mountains such as Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri range, Gurans Himal, and Kanjiroba Himal. Moreover, the lake is also surrounded by waterfalls such as Rup Gara waterfall, Phoksundo waterfall, Tshowa waterfall, Suligad waterfall, and lush green woods.

Furthermore, Shey Gompa is another popular pilgrimage place for Tibetan Buddhists with great religious significance in the upper Dolpo region in Nepal. It is believed to be around 800 years old ancient monastery founded by Luri Gompa. It is a bit challenging still rewarding experience which allows you to explore stunning paintings, sculptures, and monk’s daily lives. 

Additionally, wildlife and its rich culture add more glamour in the trek. Along the trek, you will interact with the Tibetans who have a distinct culture and way of life and also witness some of the animals and bird species that may be found in the upper Dolpo area include blue sheep, snow leopards, musk deer, and Himalayan Tahr, Himalayan monal, blood pheasant, and snow partridge.   

1) Permits for Upper Dolpo Trekking

It is a restricted area that was opened for trekking in 1989. As it is restricted area, special permits are required to visit this region which can only be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. 

1 Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit 

2Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit.

These permits can be obtained from Kathmandu, Nepalgunj or Dunai (starting point of the trek) respectively.

2) Travel Insurance 

Any trek in Nepal, including the Upper Dolpo Trek, needs travel insurance. The trek includes high-altitude trekking, which may be physically challenging and dangerous. Travel insurance can cover you financially in the event of an accident, a medical emergency, a flight cancellation or delay, or lost or stolen luggage. When buying travel insurance for the Upper Dolpo trek, ensure that it covers high- altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation, as these can be expansive without insurance. 

3) Guide and Porter

It’s always suggested to trek with a knowledgeable experienced licensed guide or join a trekking agency to assure safety and utilize your time in a best way. As they are highly experienced and familiar with terrain, prompt in safety performance and always carry essential safety equipments, first aid kids and gear to enhance your trip experience without compromising on safety.  

4) The ideal season for visiting Upper Dolpo

Trekking to the Upper Dolpo is appropriate in every season but the best time allows you best experience till the end. Generally, the different season will offer you with stunning glimpse.

Autum Season (September- November)

The temperatures are mild, the weather is relatively unchanged, the clear skies provide astonishing mountain views, and the day time walking temperature are also the most pleasant overall. However, the high mountains are still cold and lower elevations are warm. You will witness colorful hills as the leaves of trees are turn into yellow, orange, red, and brown pleasing to the eyes.

Spring Season (March- May)

It is the pre- monsoon period when nature regenerates its lost beauty. You can explore a wide variety of flowers blooming making colorful hills such as magnolia, Nepalese national flower Rhododendron and other variety of wildflowers in various part of the country. 

Spring is the advantageous season to tackle treks with high passes. The temperature of surrounding begins to rise allowing stronger sunlight and the days grow longer.

5) Altitude Sickness

Generally altitude sickness occurs when you travel to a high altitude too quickly. Headache, nausea, tiredness etc are the symptoms occur when your body tries to adjust to the lower air pressure and lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. When it comes to this illness, one should be pro-active and notify the guide as soon as possible.

6) Fitness/ Experience

Physical fitness level, health, and medical required for upper Dolpo trekking. The trekking trail of upper Dolpo is a challenging still adventurous with rewarding experience. You will be regularly hiking for around 6 hours on average depending on the destination. So, this trek is not recommended for trekkers who are suffering from chronic ailments or have heart or lung diseases. It is better to avoid this trip.

However, all the trekkers having an average level of fitness can easily complete this trek. If you have any kind of previous trekking experience or regular exercise it will be an added advantage but not compulsory.

7) Accommodation and Foods

The accommodation in the mountains and remote villages are generally modest and basic. The room, shower and rest rooms are available in a twin- shared basis. The mountain teahouse provides rooms with just a bed, pillow, and blankets but the view is spectacular from the rooms. The standard lodge has two single bedrooms with mattresses, pillow, warm blankets, attached bathrooms and hot water. 

Teashops and lodges usually provide plentiful and delicious foods which suits the preferences of various trekkers such as Nepali foods, Indian, Italian, Tibetan and Continental food. All the foods will be cooked by the local cook by using local vegetables so the taste would be very local.