Trip Overview
“Two long lost territories of highland Nepal, Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang; Dolpo where the Bon and Tibetan Buddhism prospered side and side and also the place which houses Nepal’s one of the most fascinating landscapes and Mustang the forbidden kingdom which holds the prosperous history of Lobas and witnessed the culture of sky cemeteries long long ago.”
Dolpo to Jomsom is one of the most adventurous trip that covers upper Dolpo and upper Mustang. Exploring the hidden religious and cultural treasures makes the trip momentous adventure. Enjoying the scenic beauty of the landscapes along with the glazing faces of the Himalayas in the lap of nature and exploring the authentic evidences of different episodes of super powered human existence en bloc provide the eternal satisfaction.
Dolpo to Mustang Trek can be made before May or after October because during the agricultural season in the regions nobody is allowed to enter the villages. But the trek in October is still highly recommended.
The trek is very adventurous and bit difficult and expensive. Further Araniko Chuli (Trekkers’ Peak) can be included in the itinerary for climbing.
On top of all these constraints the trek gives full satisfaction and can be one of the great adventures in the life time. This is only the trek in Nepal that gives you the real experience and realization of the real old Tibetan culture and tradition.
Detailed Itinerary
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. You will be received by our team and transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax. Evening briefing on the trek.
Day 02: Kathmandu – Nepalgunj (150m, 1 hr flight)
Morning preparation and permit arrangements. In the late afternoon, take a scenic flight to Nepalgunj in the western Terai region. Overnight in Nepalgunj.
Take a short mountain flight to Juphal, the gateway to Dolpo. After meeting the trekking crew, trek downhill through terraced fields along the Bheri River to Dunai, the district headquarters.
Cross a suspension bridge and follow the Suli Khola upstream. The trail passes scattered villages, pine forests, and terraced farmlands before reaching Chhepka
The trail ascends gradually through lush forests inside Shey Phoksundo National Park. You will pass through Rechi and enter Chunuwar near the Amchi Tibetan Medicine centre.
The trail climbs steeply uphill, rewarding trekkers with the first dramatic view of Phoksundo Lake and the 167m-high waterfall. Reach Ringmo village beside the turquoise Phoksundo Lake.
A day to explore the stunning lake, Ringmo village, and nearby monasteries. This is also an acclimatisation day.
Skirt along the rocky cliffs of Phoksundo’s northern shore and follow a rugged trail through pine and juniper forest until Sallaghari meadow.
Trek through juniper-filled valleys and yak pastures, steadily gaining altitude towards
A tough climb over Kang-la Pass offers spectacular views of Crystal Mountain. Descend into the hidden valley of Shey and visit the sacred Shey Gompa, the “spiritual heart of Dolpo.”
Cross Shey La Pass (5000m) and descend into another valley, reaching Namgung with its cliff-side red monastery.
A shorter trek today through arid highlands. Arrive at Saldang, one of the largest and most prosperous villages in Dolpo.
Day hike to the centuries-old Yangjer Monastery, rich with murals and Tibetan Buddhist culture. Return to Saldang.
Follow a high trail along ridges with great views of barren valleys and scattered hamlets. Overnight in Khoma village.
Descend through cultivated fields and traditional villages to Shimen, known for ancient Buddhist chortens.
Follow the Shimen Khola upstream and cross meadows to reach Tinje, a historically significant settlement with a runway used during past explorations
The trail enters wilder terrain, following the river through yak pastures to Rapka, a summer grazing site.
A long day across high-altitude desert landscapes. Arrive at Chharka, a large village with Tibetan Buddhist culture and fort-like houses.
Gradual ascent across high passes and yak pastures to Bhedakharka camp.
Continue trekking through glaciated valleys, reaching Yak Kharka, an alpine pastureland.
Climb steadily to the base of Chanagar La, preparing for a pass crossing.
Cross the challenging Chanagar La Pass with sweeping views of Mustang’s barren landscapes. Descend to Tsopgo.
A gradual climb through remote valleys leads to Kekyap Phedi.
Short but steady climb to the High Camp below Kekyap La.
Cross Kekyap La, one of the highest passes of the trek, and descend into Mustang’s walled capital, Lo Manthang.
A rest and exploration day in the medieval walled city. Visit Namgyal Monastery, Tingkhar village, Jampa Lakhang, and the royal palace.
Trek across Mustang’s wind-swept terrain to Dhakmar, famous for its red cliffs.
Pass through Ghar Gompa, one of the oldest Nyingma monasteries in Mustang, before reaching Syangboche.
Descend gradually through villages and arid valleys to Chhuksang.
Follow the Kali Gandaki River downstream via Kagbeni to reach Jomsom, the district headquarters of Mustang.
Early morning flight to Pokhara and onward flight to Kathmandu.
Leisure day for shopping, rest, or optional sightseeing. Kept as a buffer against possible flight delays.
Final departure from Kathmandu.