Nestled within the majestic Himalayas, the Upper Dolpo Trek offers intrepid adventurers a journey through remote landscapes and cultural treasures that few have experienced. This extraordinary trek, an extension of the lower Dolpo route, leads to the enchanting realm of Shey Gompa and the awe-inspiring Crystal Mountain. Embarking on this expedition is akin to stepping into the wild, windswept expanses reminiscent of Tibet while immersing oneself in the unique blend of Tibetan culture, religion, and history that thrives in this secluded corner of Nepal.
The Upper Dolpo Trek, a true gem among Nepal’s trekking destinations, stretches across approximately 2100 square miles in the northwestern region of the country. This remarkable landscape is punctuated by soaring peaks, pristine valleys, and high-altitude plateaus that capture the essence of the Trans-Himalayan ecosystem. The itinerary weaves through a tapestry of thirty villages and monasteries, each perched at elevations ranging from eleven to fifteen thousand feet, offering an unparalleled view of life at these altitudes.
The people of the Upper Dolpo region are a testament to the region’s rich historical tapestry. With Tibetan roots, these inhabitants continue to follow their ancestral traditions and beliefs. Their way of life is closely intertwined with Tibetan Buddhism, making this trek a unique opportunity to witness the enduring influence of Tibetan culture on the Nepalese landscape. While the majority practice Tibetan Buddhism, pockets of the area still uphold the ancient animistic Bon Po religion, which predates Buddhism itself and serves as a precursor to the faith as it is known today.
Beyond its cultural treasures, the Upper Dolpo region is home to a diverse array of wildlife that has adapted to survive in these rugged trekking terrains. Trekkers may catch glimpses of the elusive musk deer, a species on the brink of extinction, as well as the Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, and Himalayan wolf. The presence of these remarkable creatures adds an element of enchantment to the trek, as explorers traverse through valleys and ascend challenging passes like Numla-Bangla, Kangla, and Chhori La.
Embarking on the Shey Gompa Upper Dolpo Camping Trek is a privilege granted to a limited number of trekkers each year due to its restricted status. This exclusivity ensures a truly immersive and unspoiled experience for those who undertake the journey. As trekkers navigate the trails and absorb the natural and cultural wonders that abound, they become part of a select group that has ventured into the heart of this hidden Himalayan treasure.
The Upper Dolpo Trek, with its Shey Gompa and Crystal Mountain highlights, beckons adventurers seeking to tread upon the lesser-known trails of Nepal. This trek offers not only a physical journey through breathtaking landscapes but also a spiritual and cultural voyage through time. As trekkers traverse the challenging terrain, they connect with the region’s past, its resilient people, and the untamed beauty that defines the Upper Dolpo’s allure.
Meet Parikrama Treks representative and transfer to Hotel. A short briefing about Shey Gompa Upper Dolpo Trek in the lobby.
Today is a free day fr buy and hire fo remaining item for the trek.
We take a morning flight to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu. Nepalgunj lies in the southwestern part of Nepal a steaming hot city.
We take a flight to Juphal from Nepalgunj. During the flight, we get to see beautiful views of snowcapped mountains. Juphal is a small mountain village.
Our trek start with a descend through wheat and vegetable field to reach Thuli Bheri River. We will follow Suli Khola viewing a part of the Dhaulagiri Range. Trekking on this trail we pass through the pine tree line spruce. At the end of the day, we will reach Cheep Ka, a small village surrounded by millet and wheat field.
To reach Palma, we have to pass through the beautiful forest, following a river.
It takes about 4 hrs to reach Phoksundo Lake. Before reaching the top, we can enjoy Nepal’s highest waterfall. It is a spectacular waterfall of 107m high known as the Phoksundo waterfall. It is also known as sunlight waterfall.
We should have rest at least one day to admire the beauty of Phoksundo Lake. One can visit nearby villages inhabited by Bon and Buddhist religion.
This day, we will enter the restricted area of Upper Dolpo. This trail has a history among peoples of Dolpo as a trade route Tibetans. We will have to descend first and ascend through a wide valley. It will let us have a spectacular view of Kanjirowa Himal (66612m). Then we will reach an alpine area with junipers called Thaneba or Lakeside camp.
Today we will have Salla Ghari, trekking through between high rock walls. It covers both sides and crossing a couple of streams.
We will start the trek by a long and strenuous climb of about 2 and a half hrs over a dusty path to Kang La (5350m). We have to descend through pass covered with snow which is very steep. Furthermore, after 3 hrs we will reach Shey Gompa, a very small village with a couple of houses and Gompa.
We can explore around Tsakang Gompa. Drutup Yeshe introduced Buddhism in the Dolpo valley.
We have to cross the pass Sheyla which is about 5000m. After through pass, we have to descend to the pastures of Namgung.
Our Trek to Saldang starts with climbing a slope. We have to ascend to 4700m before going down steep slopes to the picturesque village of Saldang. It takes us to a plateau high above the Nam Khong Nala and the biggest villages of the lower Dolpo area.
We will leave Saldang village and on way to Sibu we have to pass through terraced fields. Stupas, Chortens mani, and a Chaiba monastery are some of today’s highlights. Namdo, the next village contains sixty houses having four hundred inhabitants.
We will follow the line of the river valley and the trail is easy going.
To reach Tokyo Gaon we have to cross the Jeng La which is about 4850m. It will take about 2 hrs climb to reach the top of Jeng La. Form the top of the peak we can have good views of Dhaulagiri. In the morning Dhaulagiri gives beautiful goldy views. Finally, we hear from Tokyo gaon.
Today, we will walk east along the downward lower of Tarap Chu.
One may see blue sheep, marmots, yaks, sheep, and goats today. You will also see people from Dolpo taking their flocks of sheep and goats to lower pastures for the winter.
You leave Khanigoan by the new suspension bridge and then walk alongside the river. The famous Sandul gompa.
Today most of the path follows downhill of the Himalayas. All too soon you have reached the village of Dunai and the campsite you used before.
You now retrace your steps to Juphal.
Early morning flight to Nepalganj.
Today is free to relax this long journey of Shey Gompa Upper Dolpo Trek.
Shey Gompa Upper Dolpo Trek Journey Ends.
TREK COST: USD 3,890.00 per person on Twin Sharing room accommodation
Single Supplement: USD 500 per person
Extra: KTM – Nepalgunj – Dolpo Airfare US$ 354 Per Person
Extra: Juphal – Nepalgunj – KTM Airfare US$ 320 Per Person
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