Trip Overview
“So close yet the cultural difference is so huge. The people of high Dolpo still practice the nomadic lifestyle, whereas the people of Mustang practised and enjoyed luxury even in the past because of living in a village situated in the famous Silk Route.”
Legend has it that the revered Buddhist saint, Guru Rimpoche, who spread Tibetan Buddhism throughout the Himalayas, discovered this hidden land over 1700 years ago. This land, also called “beyul” or refuge, has been inhabited by Tibetan nomads, called Drokpas, for over a thousand years. It has remained isolated, due to its remote location and has only been open for trekking and tourism since 1989. One of the highest inhabited places on earth, Dolpo is also still a stronghold of the pre-Buddhist, Bon Po religion. It is a high, mountainous region of fortified villages, ‘dzongs’ and many high passes.
We pass through many ancient monasteries and highland villages, and wonderful natural scenery as we make our way to Phoksundo Lake and the fabled Shey Gompa. We explore alpine meadows and exotic villages in Upper Dolpo, which has kept Bhoriya culture alive. We also get to experience the Thakkali culture in Mustang.
The most interesting factor of this trek is that we get to witness the cultural differences of the people of different regions, centuries ago. Dolpo, the high mountainous settlement, holds the nomads who migrated to the region ages ago. Similarly, the people of Mustang, also called Lopas also migrated from Tibet almost at the same time. Still, the contrast between the people of these two regions in the past and in recent times is so huge in terms of civilisation; it is an interesting discovery.
This itinerary can be changed as per your interest and time frame.
Detailed Itinerary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (1,350m), you will be greeted by a representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, you can rest or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, a popular tourist hub. In the evening, there will be a briefing about the trek. Overnight in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, you will take a 1-hour flight to Nepalgunj (150m), a hot and bustling city near the Indian border. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to a hotel. The rest of the day can be spent exploring the local markets or relaxing. Overnight in Nepalgunj.
An early morning 35-minute flight takes you to Juphal (2,475m), the starting point of the trek. After meeting the crew, you begin trekking downhill towards the Thuli Bheri River, following a scenic trail to Dunai (2,150m), the administrative headquarters of Dolpo. Overnight in Dunai.
The trail follows the Suli Gad River, passing through villages like Shyanta and Rakpa. The landscape transitions from lush forests to rocky gorges. After crossing several suspension bridges, you reach Chhepka, a small settlement with basic teahouses. Overnight in Chhepka.
The trail continues along the river, ascending through pine and birch forests. You pass Rechi and enter Shey Phoksundo National Park. The climb becomes steeper as you approach Chunuwar, a scenic campsite near the river. Overnight in Chunuwar.
A steep climb leads to Palam (3,800m), offering the first glimpse of Phoksundo Lake. Descending through juniper forests, you reach Ringmo, a traditional Tibetan village. A short walk brings you to the stunning turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal’s deepest lakes. Overnight near the lake.
A full day to explore the sacred Phoksundo Lake and Ringmo village. You can visit the Tshowa Gompa (Bon Monastery) or hike to viewpoints for breathtaking lake views. This day helps with acclimatisation before higher passes. Overnight at Phoksundo.
The trail climbs along the lake’s western edge, passing waterfalls and rugged cliffs. You enter a dense forest of pine and birch, reaching Sallaghari, a serene campsite named after the surrounding trees. Overnight in Sallaghari.
A steep ascent leads out of the forest into a rocky, high-altitude landscape. You trek towards Nangdala High Camp, preparing for tomorrow’s pass crossing. The air thins as you approach 4,700m, so hydration and rest are essential. Overnight at High Camp.
An early start for the challenging climb to Nangdala Pass (5,350m), offering panoramic Himalayan views. After a steep descent, you enter the Shey Valley, reaching the ancient Shey Gompa, a sacred Crystal Mountain pilgrimage site. Overnight in Shey Gompa.
A day to explore Shey Gompa and its surroundings. You can visit the monastery, interact with local herders, or hike to nearby viewpoints. This rest day aids acclimatisation before further high passes. Overnight in Shey Gompa.
Following the Shey River, the trail crosses barren landscapes with occasional nomadic settlements. You ascend to Namgung Gompa, a cliffside monastery with stunning valley views. Overnight near Namgung Gompa.
Saldang, one of the largest villages in Upper Dolpo. The village has terraced fields and a rich Tibetan Buddhist culture.
After lunch, take some time to explore the village and make sure you visit the local community museum. Overnight in Saldang.
The trail follows the Nagon Khola, passing remote villages like Tiling village. You ascend to Yangjer Gompa, a secluded monastery surrounded by rugged cliffs. The history reflects the Yangjer Gompa as the oldest monastery in the Dolpo region. Overnight at Yangjer Gompa.
A gradual descent leads through high-altitude pastures and yak herder camps. The trail then climbs to Musigaon, a small settlement with stunning mountain views. Overnight in Musigaon.
A tough climb to Muri La Pass (5,030m), followed by a steep descent into the Panjyang Valley. You reach Chanpola Goth, a seasonal herding camp. Overnight at Chanpola Goth.
Following the Panjyang River, you pass through remote valleys before reaching Pu Gompa, an ancient monastery with a serene atmosphere. Overnight near Pu Gompa.
The trail follows the river through wide valleys, passing occasional chortens and mani walls. You reach Tinje, a traditional village with Tibetan influence. Overnight in Tinje.
Ascending through alpine meadows, you reach Yak Kharka, a grazing area with stunning mountain views. Overnight at Yak Kharka.
A challenging climb to Mola Pass (5,030m), followed by a long descent into the Chharka Valley. You reach Chharka Bhot, a remote village with a unique culture. Overnight in Chharka Bhot.
Following the Barbung Khola, you ascend to Nulungsumda, a high-altitude campsite near two major passes. Overnight at Nulungsumda.
The toughest day, crossing Niwala Pass (5,120m) and Jungben La (5,550m). The descent leads to Ghalden Ghuldum Khola Camp, a well-earned rest spot. Overnight at the camp.
A gradual descent through alpine meadows brings you to Sangta, a small village with apple orchards. Overnight in Sangta.
Descending further, you enter the Kali Gandaki Valley, reaching Phalyak, a village with stunning Dhaulagiri views. Overnight in Phalyak.
A short walk leads to Jomsom, the capital of Mustang. You can celebrate the trek’s completion and relax. Overnight in Jomsom.
An early morning 25-minute flight to Pokhara, followed by a connecting flight or drive to Kathmandu. Rest or explore before a farewell dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.
A spare day in case of flight delays or extra exploration in Kathmandu. You can visit Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, or shop in Thamel.
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight, marking the end of this incredible Upper Dolpo adventure.
