Upper Dolpo to Shey Gompa Trek โ€“ 25 Days
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Overview

The Upper Dolpo to Shey Gompa Trek โ€“ 25 Days is a remote and adventurous journey through the wild landscapes of western Nepal. This trek takes you deep into the Upper Dolpo region, where high mountains, ancient villages, Buddhist monasteries, and peaceful valleys create a truly unique Himalayan experience.

The journey begins with a flight toward the Dolpo region and continues through Phoksundo Lake, Ringmo Village, Kang La Pass, Shey Gompa, Namgung, Saldang, and Dho Tarap. Along the way, you walk through rugged mountain trails, pine and juniper forests, dry valleys, and high Himalayan passes.

One of the main highlights is Phoksundo Lake, famous for its deep blue and turquoise waters. The trek then takes you across the challenging Kang La Pass, leading into the sacred Shey Valley. At Shey Gompa, you can experience the peaceful spiritual atmosphere and learn about the ancient Buddhist culture of Dolpo.

The Upper Dolpo to Shey Gompa Trek is ideal for trekkers looking for a less-crowded Himalayan adventure away from Nepal’s popular trekking routes. The remote trails, traditional villages, dramatic landscapes, and unique culture make this a memorable journey for experienced trekkers.

Trip Facts

Duration 25 Days
Max. Altitude: Approx. 5,300+ m
Group size 2โ€“15 People Costmizable
Best Season Spring (Marchโ€“May) & Autumn (Septemberโ€“November)
Activity Trekking
Meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation Hotels, Lodges, Teahouses & Camping
DIFFICULTY Challenging
TRANSPORTATION Domestic Flights & Private/Shared Vehicles
LOCATION Upper Dolpo, Nepal
Start/End Kathmandu, Nepal

Upper Dolpo to Shey Gompa Trek Highlights

    Explore the remote and beautiful Upper Dolpo region

    Visit the spectacular Phoksundo Lake

    Explore traditional Ringmo Village

    Trek through Shey Phoksundo National Park

    Cross the challenging Kang La Pass

    Visit the sacred Shey Gompa

    Experience traditional Tibetan-influenced culture

    Explore ancient mountain villages and monasteries

    Enjoy spectacular views of the Dolpo Himalayas

    Trek through remote valleys and high mountain landscapes

    Experience peaceful trails with very few trekkers

    Discover the unique lifestyle of the people of Dolpo

Detailed Itinerary

Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can rest and relax. In the evening, you will receive a short briefing about the Upper Dolpo trek and meet your trekking team.

Accommodation Hotel in Kathmandu
Meal Welcome Dinner

Today, you will explore some of Kathmandu’s cultural and historical attractions. You will also prepare your trekking equipment and complete the necessary permits and official arrangements. Your guide will provide important information about the trekking route, altitude, weather, and safety.

Accommodation Hotel in Kathmandu
Meal Breakfast

After breakfast, take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. The flight offers views of Nepal’s changing landscapes, from the Kathmandu Valley to the lowland Terai. After arriving in Nepalgunj, check into your hotel and prepare for the next day’s flight toward the Dolpo region.

Accommodation Hotel in Nepalgunj
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Take an early morning flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal. After landing, meet the local trekking staff and begin your trek toward Dunai. The trail passes through small settlements, green hills, and beautiful mountain landscapes. Dunai is the administrative center of the Dolpo region and an important stop before entering the remote areas.

Accommodation Lodge/Guesthouse in Dunai
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, start walking along the trail beside the river. The route passes through forests, small settlements, and beautiful valleys. As you move deeper into the region, the surroundings become quieter and more remote. Continue to Chhepka, where you will spend the night.

Accommodation Teahouse/Camp in Chhepka
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, the trail continues through pine, juniper, and other Himalayan forests. You will gradually gain altitude while walking along the Phoksundo River. The peaceful forest environment and mountain views make this a beautiful section of the trek. Continue toward Chunuwar for your overnight stay.

Accommodation Teahouse/Camp in Chunuwar
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is one of the most exciting days of the trek as you head toward the famous Phoksundo Lake. The trail climbs through a dramatic landscape before opening to views of the deep blue lake. You will continue toward the traditional Ringmo area near the lake and enjoy the stunning scenery of the surrounding cliffs and mountains.

Accommodation Camp/Teahouse near Phoksundo Lake
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is a rest and acclimatization day. Take time to explore the beautiful surroundings of Phoksundo Lake and visit Ringmo Village. You can walk around the lake, observe traditional houses, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of this remote Himalayan settlement. The rest day also helps your body adjust to the increasing altitude.

Accommodation Camp/Teahouse near Phoksundo Lake
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, leave the beautiful Phoksundo Lake and continue toward Phoksundo Khola. The trail becomes more rugged and remote as you move toward the high mountain passes. You will walk through barren landscapes and narrow mountain trails while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.

Accommodation Camping
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, continue toward the base camp of Kang La Pass. The trail gradually climbs through a dry and rocky Himalayan landscape. As you gain altitude, the vegetation becomes thinner and the surrounding mountains become more impressive. Rest at the base camp and prepare for the challenging pass crossing the next day.

Accommodation Camping at Kang La Base Camp
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the trek. Start early and climb toward Kang La Pass. From the top, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape. After crossing the pass, descend toward the beautiful Shey Valley and continue to Shey Gompa.

Accommodation Camp/Teahouse near Shey Gompa
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Spend the day exploring the sacred Shey Gompa and its surrounding landscape. The area is known for its ancient Buddhist traditions and peaceful mountain environment. You can visit the monastery, explore nearby trails, and enjoy the spectacular views of the barren Himalayan mountains.

Accommodation Camp near Shey Gompa
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Leave Shey Gompa and continue toward Namgung. The trail passes through a dry and dramatic mountain landscape with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, you can observe traditional settlements and the unique lifestyle of people living in this remote region.

Accommodation Camp
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, trek toward Saldang, one of the most important traditional villages in Upper Dolpo. The trail follows the high mountain valley and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. Upon arrival in Saldang, explore the village and experience its unique Tibetan-influenced culture and architecture.

Accommodation Camp/Local Lodge in Saldang
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, leave Saldang and continue toward Sibu. The trail passes through remote valleys and traditional settlements. You will walk along mountain slopes while enjoying the peaceful surroundings and spectacular views of the Upper Dolpo landscape.

Accommodation Camping
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s trail takes you toward the base of Jeng La Pass. The route gradually climbs through a remote alpine landscape. As you approach the base camp, you will notice fewer settlements and more rugged mountain terrain. Enjoy a warm meal and rest at the camp before crossing the pass.

Accommodation Camping at Jeng La Base Camp
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Start early today for the climb toward Jeng La Pass. The ascent can be challenging due to the altitude, but the views from the pass make the effort worthwhile. After crossing the pass, descend toward Tokyu Gaon through a beautiful mountain valley.

Continue through the scenic Tarap Valley toward Dho Tarap. The trail gradually descends through wide valleys and traditional settlements. Dho Tarap is one of the most culturally interesting areas of Dolpo, where you can observe traditional houses, monasteries, and local lifestyles.

Accommodation Camp/Local Lodge in Dho Tarap
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Take a relaxing day in Dho Tarap after several days of trekking. Explore the village and nearby monasteries and interact with local people. This is a great opportunity to learn about the unique traditions, culture, and lifestyle of the Dolpo communities.

Accommodation Camp/Local Lodge in Dho Tarap
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, begin your gradual descent from the high-altitude region. The trail follows the valley through rugged landscapes and small settlements. As you lose altitude, the environment becomes greener and warmer.

Accommodation Camping
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Continue along the river valley toward Tarakot. The trail becomes easier as you move toward lower elevations. Enjoy the changing landscapes, green hills, and peaceful mountain surroundings before reaching Tarakot.

Accommodation Lodge/Camp in Tarakot
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, continue trekking toward Dunai. This is the final major trekking section of your Upper Dolpo journey. Enjoy the surrounding hills and river valley before reaching Dunai, where you can relax after completing the main trekking route.

Accommodation Lodge/Guesthouse in Dunai
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, trek back to Juphal. From Juphal, take a flight to Nepalgunj. Once you arrive, check into your hotel and enjoy a comfortable evening after your long Himalayan adventure.

Accommodation Hotel in Nepalgunj
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Take a morning flight from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the city. You can also do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.

Accommodation Hotel in Kathmandu
Meal Breakfast

Your Upper Dolpo to Shey Gompa Trek officially comes to an end today. Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. We hope you return home with wonderful memories of the remote landscapes, ancient culture, and Himalayan adventure of Upper Dolpo.

Meal Breakfast

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Cost Details

Cost Includes

    Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu

    All necessary ground transportation as mentioned in the itinerary

    Kathmanduโ€“Nepalgunjโ€“Kathmandu domestic flights

    Nepalgunjโ€“Juphalโ€“Nepalgunj domestic flights

    Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj

    Teahouse/lodge accommodation where available

    Full camping accommodation in remote trekking areas

    Three meals per day during the trek: breakfast, lunch, and dinner

    Experienced, licensed, and English-speaking trekking guide

    Required number of porters

    Food, accommodation, salary, and insurance for trekking staff

    Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit

    Shey Phoksundo National Park entry permit

    Local government and conservation fees

    Necessary trekking and camping permits

    Camping equipment including tents, kitchen equipment, and dining setup

    Sleeping bags and trekking mattresses

    Experienced cook and kitchen staff during camping

    Basic first-aid medical kit

    Trekking staff equipment and support

    Government taxes and service charges

    Company service charges

Cost Excludes

    International airfare

    Nepal visa fee

    Travel and medical insurance

    Emergency helicopter evacuation

    Personal trekking equipment and clothing

    Personal expenses and shopping

    Hot showers and laundry services

    Wi-Fi and telephone charges

    Bottled water, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages

    Extra meals and accommodation outside the scheduled itinerary

    Extra hotel nights caused by early arrival, late departure, or itinerary changes

    Expenses caused by flight delays or cancellations due to weather

    Rescue or evacuation expenses

    Tips for guides, porters, drivers, and other staff

    Any costs caused by natural disasters, political disturbances, or unforeseen circumstances

    Any services not specifically mentioned under the Included section

Equipment

Here is a list of what you might want to pack for the hike. Please take this as a starting point. Youโ€™ll need layers of warmer clothing during the winter. We provide a 75 liter duffel bag for you to use for the trek. It will be given to you during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffle bag is yours to keep. Also, you can rent sleeping bag and down jacket with us at the additional fee of USD 35 for each once you are in Kathmandu.

    All the ground transportation as per itinerary.

    Welcome or fare well dinner in kathmandu.

    Standard Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast.

    First aid medical kit, Ox meter to check pulse, heart rate and oxygen saturation at higher altitude.

    All the ground transportation as per itinerary.

    Welcome or fare well dinner in kathmandu.

    Standard Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The trek is considered challenging because of its high altitude, long walking days, remote trails, and high mountain passes. Previous trekking experience is recommended.

The trek reaches above 5,300 meters, particularly while crossing Kang La Pass.

The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months generally offer better weather and clearer mountain views.

Yes. Upper Dolpo is a restricted trekking area, so special permits are required in addition to the applicable national park and local permits.

Yes. Because Upper Dolpo is remote and has limited accommodation facilities, several sections require full camping arrangements.

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