Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

Arrive in Kathmandu, where a representative welcomes you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfers you to your hotel. After check-in, you can relax from your journey or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel. In the evening, attend a trek briefing with your guide to discuss the route, safety measures, and logistics. The night offers a chance to enjoy local cuisine while taking in the city’s bustling atmosphere. This first day is about preparation, rest, and absorbing the initial charm of Nepal’s capital before heading into the remote Dolpo region.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 2: Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a scenic flight to Nepalgunj, a vibrant town in Nepal’s lowlands. The short journey offers changing landscapes from Kathmandu’s hills to the Terai plains. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and explore local markets, temples, and street food culture. Nepalgunj serves as the gateway to western Nepal’s remote areas. The evening allows time to prepare gear and rest before the early flight to Juphal. This day also helps in adjusting to the travel flow before beginning the trekking phase of the adventure.

Accommodation: Standard hotel in Nepalgunj (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2502m) then Trek to Dunai (2850m)

A short morning flight to Juphal offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Upon landing, meet the trekking crew and begin the trek. The trail descends through terraced fields and small villages before following the Bheri River towards Dunai, the administrative center of Dolpa District. Along the way, you’ll pass through apple orchards and catch glimpses of distant snow peaks. Dunai, a lively riverside town, offers your first camping experience of the trek. Spend the evening enjoying the fresh mountain air and getting accustomed to camping in the remote Himalayas.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Trek from Dunai to Ankhe (2896m)

Leaving Dunai, the trail follows the Suli River through beautiful pine forests and small settlements. Gradually, you enter the Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to diverse wildlife such as musk deer and blue sheep. The path undulates with occasional steep climbs and descents, offering picturesque views of cascading waterfalls. Ankhe is a small settlement surrounded by terraced fields and forested hills. Tonight’s campsite provides a peaceful riverside atmosphere, and the sound of flowing water will be your lullaby. This day offers a gentle but steady introduction to the trekking rhythm.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Trek from Ankhe to Sulighat (3500m)

Today’s trek involves ascending and descending through dense forests, crossing several suspension bridges over roaring streams. The trail becomes steeper in parts, demanding more effort. As you approach Sulighat, the landscape becomes more rugged and barren, signaling the shift towards Dolpo’s higher terrain. Sulighat is a strategic stop near the confluence of rivers and the entry point towards Shey Phoksundo Lake. The campsite here offers dramatic views of cliffs and river gorges. The evening is perfect for relaxing after a physically engaging day of trekking through wild landscapes.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Trek from Sulighat to Phoksundo Lake (3611m)

A highlight day as you ascend towards the stunning turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake. The trail follows the Phoksundo River, passing through the charming village of Ringmo, where traditional Tibetan-style houses cluster on a hilltop. As you approach the lake, the shimmering blue expanse surrounded by snow-dusted peaks creates a breathtaking sight. The campsite near the lake allows you to enjoy its tranquil beauty. Sunset over Phoksundo’s surface is an unforgettable moment, with changing light painting the water in magical shades of blue and green.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Acclimatization Day at Phoksundo Lake (3611m)

This day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization, essential for adapting to higher altitudes. Enjoy a short hike around the lake’s perimeter, visiting Ringmo Monastery and learning about the Bon religion, one of the world’s oldest spiritual traditions. Marvel at the sheer cliffs plunging directly into the water and the surrounding Himalayan grandeur. The crew prepares hearty meals while you relax, photograph, or meditate by the lakeshore. Acclimatization here not only aids your health for the upcoming high passes but also deepens your appreciation of Dolpo’s pristine beauty.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Trek from Phoksundo Lake (3611m) to Phoksundo Khola (3507m)

The trail today skirts the western bank of Phoksundo Lake, offering spectacular views of its turquoise waters and the surrounding cliffs. After crossing a rocky ridge, the path descends into a remote valley. The route is rugged, with sections carved into sheer rock walls, requiring careful footing. As you leave the lake behind, the scenery transforms into a wild, uninhabited landscape of alpine meadows and glacial streams. Phoksundo Khola lies in a secluded area, where you set up camp beside the river. The night here feels truly remote, with only the sound of flowing water under the starry sky.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Trek from Phoksundo Khola (3507m) to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4402m)

Today’s trek follows the river upstream, crossing it several times over makeshift wooden bridges. The valley narrows into a dramatic gorge before opening into a meadow filled with alpine wildflowers in season. Steep ascents dominate the latter part of the day as you climb towards Phoksundo Bhanjyang. The altitude gain is significant, so you’ll take it slow to adjust. From camp, you can see the imposing Kang La Pass looming ahead, its snowline glistening in the distance. The campsite at Bhanjyang offers panoramic views of surrounding peaks and a sense of anticipation for tomorrow’s challenging high-pass crossing.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Trek from Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4402m) to Shey Gompa (4500m) via Kang La Pass (5360m)

An early start is essential for today’s demanding climb over Kang La Pass. The ascent is steep and can be icy, requiring steady pacing. Reaching the top rewards you with a breathtaking panorama of the Dolpo landscape and distant Tibetan plateaus. A long descent leads into the serene valley of Shey, home to the famous Shey Gompa Monastery. The gompa, over 800 years old, is a spiritual center for the region and steeped in Buddhist history. Camping here feels magical, with prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze and a deep sense of isolation in this sacred valley.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Acclimatization Day in Shey Gompa (4500m)

This rest day allows your body to adapt to the high altitude while immersing yourself in the cultural and spiritual atmosphere of Shey. You can explore the monastery, learn about the local Buddhist traditions, and hike around the surrounding hills for spectacular views of Crystal Mountain, a sacred peak in Dolpo. The area is rich in myths and legends, and your guide can share stories of ancient pilgrimages. The peaceful environment, combined with the crisp mountain air, makes this a perfect pause in your journey before continuing deeper into Dolpo’s remote wilderness.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Trek from Shey Gompa (4500m) to Namduna Gaun (4800m)

Leaving Shey, the trail ascends through arid highlands dotted with grazing yaks and scattered nomadic camps. The stark beauty of the Dolpo landscape is striking—rolling brown hills contrasted against brilliant blue skies. After crossing a small pass, you descend to Namduna Gaun, a small settlement centered around the centuries-old Namgung Monastery. Built into a cliffside, the monastery offers a dramatic view over the valley. Tonight’s camp is set near the village, giving you a chance to interact with locals and gain insight into their challenging yet harmonious life in one of the world’s most remote inhabited regions.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Trek from Namduna Gaun (4800m) to Saldang (3903m) via Saldang La Pass (5200m)

Today’s route begins with a steady climb to the Saldang La Pass, where sweeping views stretch across Dolpo’s rugged expanse. After crossing the pass, you descend into Saldang, the largest and most prosperous village in the region. Located on a trade route to Tibet, Saldang’s whitewashed houses, terraced fields, and colorful prayer flags create a picturesque scene against the barren hills. This village offers a rare opportunity to witness traditional lifestyles preserved for centuries. The campsite here provides shelter from the wind, and the warmth of local hospitality makes for a memorable evening in the high mountains.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Trek from Saldang (3903m) to Yangze Gompa (4960m)

The trail winds along high ridges and across windswept plateaus, with constant views of snowcapped peaks on the horizon. Passing small settlements, you’ll notice the Tibetan influence in architecture, language, and dress. After several hours, you reach Yangze Gompa, a monastery surrounded by a small cluster of homes. This rarely visited site holds deep religious significance for the local community. Camping here allows you to experience the tranquility and spiritual energy of the place. Evening skies are especially beautiful here, often lit with vivid colors as the sun dips behind the jagged mountain ridges.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Trek from Yangze Gompa (4960m) to Sibu (4560m)

Today’s journey follows a more gradual path along valleys and ridges, passing through scattered yak pastures. The scenery is stark yet captivating, with rolling hills giving way to rugged cliffs. Along the way, you may encounter herders tending to their flocks, offering a glimpse into Dolpo’s pastoral lifestyle. The campsite at Sibu is set near a stream, offering fresh water and a peaceful backdrop of surrounding peaks. The remoteness of this place means starry nights are especially vivid, making it a perfect spot for stargazing in the clear Himalayan air.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Trek from Sibu (4560m) to Jenga La Phedi (4900m)

A shorter but steadily ascending day, you’ll trek towards the base of Jenga La Pass. The trail follows a high valley where vegetation becomes sparse, replaced by rocky terrain and occasional snow patches. The thin air is noticeable here, so the pace is kept slow to conserve energy. The campsite at Jenga La Phedi sits in a windswept location beneath towering cliffs, with views of the route you’ll take over the pass tomorrow. Early dinner and rest are important tonight in preparation for the challenging climb over Jenga La.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17: Trek from Jenga La Phedi (4900m) to Tokyu Gaon (4209m)

An early start sees you tackling the steep climb over Jenga La Pass, where the high-altitude wind can be biting. From the top, dramatic views unfold in every direction, with deep valleys and snowbound peaks dominating the horizon. The descent is long and gradual, leading into the more fertile valley of Tokyu Gaon. This large village is known for its extensive barley fields and friendly inhabitants. Camping here offers a refreshing change in scenery, with green fields and warmer conditions compared to the stark high passes of recent days.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18: Trek from Tokyu Gaon (4209m) to Dho Tarap (4040m)

A short and easy trek today takes you to Dho Tarap, one of the highest permanent settlements in Nepal. The trail follows a gentle valley lined with mani walls and chortens, reflecting the deep Buddhist heritage of the area. Dho Tarap is a culturally rich village inhabited by both Buddhist and Bonpo communities, each with their own monasteries. The campsite here is near the river, with views of traditional stone houses and surrounding hills. The afternoon can be spent exploring the village and learning about the customs and traditions of Dolpo’s highland people.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 19: Acclimatization Day in Dho Tarap (4040m)

This rest day gives you time to recover and further immerse yourself in the culture of Dho Tarap. You can visit both the Bonpo and Buddhist monasteries, interact with locals, and learn about their agricultural and pastoral lifestyles. Optional short hikes in the surrounding hills provide excellent photography opportunities, with sweeping views of the valley. The day’s slower pace also helps the body recover from the high pass crossings and prepares you for the long descent that follows. Evening campfires and storytelling with the crew make this a memorable pause in your trek.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 20: Trek from Dho Tarap (4040m) to Tarap Khola (3800m)

Leaving Dho Tarap, the trail descends through a gorge along the Tarap Chu River. The landscape changes dramatically, with towering cliffs rising on both sides and the river rushing far below. The path is narrow in places, sometimes carved into rock walls. Occasional suspension bridges cross the river, adding to the adventure. The campsite at Tarap Khola is set in a dramatic gorge, surrounded by sheer rock faces. The sound of the river echoes through the valley, making for a peaceful yet awe-inspiring overnight stop in the heart of Dolpo’s wild terrain.

 Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 21: Trek from Tarap Khola (3800m) to Khanigaon (3150m)

Following the river downstream, the gorge widens gradually, revealing small patches of farmland and scattered settlements. The warmer climate here supports more vegetation, and you’ll pass through forests of juniper and pine. Khanigaon is a picturesque village with stone houses and terraced fields clinging to the hillsides. The friendly locals often welcome trekkers, offering a glimpse into rural life in western Nepal. Tonight’s camp is set on a terrace above the river, offering views of the surrounding hills and a peaceful atmosphere after the more challenging high-altitude days.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 22: Trek from Khanigaon (3150m) to Tarakot (2537m)

Today’s trek follows a well-trodden trail along the Bheri River, with gentle ups and downs through pine forests and cultivated fields. Tarakot, once a fortified town and administrative center, still retains remnants of its historical past. The village sits on a hill above the river, offering commanding views of the valley. You’ll have time to explore the old fortress and local monastery before settling into camp. Tarakot’s warmer climate and abundant greenery create a pleasant contrast to the stark, high-altitude landscapes experienced earlier in the trek.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 23: Trek from Tarakot (2537m) to Dunai (2850m)

Following the trail along the Bheri River, you pass through small villages and farmlands. The route is scenic and relatively easy, allowing you to enjoy the changing landscapes as you gradually approach Dunai. On arrival, set up camp or stay in a local lodge. Dunai’s lively market offers a chance to stock up on small treats or souvenirs. This is your last full day in Dolpo before returning to the outside world, and the evening is spent celebrating with the crew, reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve completed.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 24: Trek from Dunai (2850m) to Juphal (2502m)

A short but steady uphill walk takes you back to Juphal, retracing part of your initial route. The trail passes through terraced fields, orchards, and traditional villages. Once in Juphal, you’ll prepare for the flight back to Nepalgunj. This final night in Dolpo is spent enjoying a hearty meal and sharing stories with your team. The sense of accomplishment is strong, knowing you’ve crossed multiple high passes and explored one of Nepal’s most isolated regions. Camping here marks the end of your trekking adventure.

Accommodation: Teahouse (twin sharing)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 25: Flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj (150m) then Kathmandu (1400m)

Early morning, take the scenic flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, followed by a connecting flight to Kathmandu. The journey offers a last aerial view of the Dolpo mountains and the diverse landscapes of Nepal. On arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel for a hot shower and relaxation. The afternoon is free to explore the city, shop for souvenirs, or simply rest.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu (twin sharing)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 26: Final Departure

Your adventure concludes with a transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Depending on your schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. As you leave Nepal, you carry with you not just photographs, but deep memories of the landscapes, cultures, and challenges of the Upper Dolpo Trek. This journey, marked by its remoteness and authenticity, leaves a lasting impression and a sense of connection to one of the world’s most untouched mountain regions.

Meal: Breakfast