Upper Dolpa Trek Itinerary: A Remote Adventure to Nepal’s Hidden Gem

 

The Upper Dolpa Trek is one of the most remote and unexplored treks in Nepal, offering a unique adventure for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Nestled in the far northwestern region of Nepal, Dolpa remains one of the country’s least-visited trekking areas due to its isolation, high-altitude terrain, and the need for special permits. However, this makes it all the more rewarding for those who choose to explore its ancient Tibetan culture, stunning landscapes, and pristine wilderness.

With Hilly Chilly, embark on a journey to one of Nepal’s most captivating regions—explore the vast valleys, cross high passes, and witness the beauty of the Himalayas, all while experiencing the authenticity of a remote Tibetan-influenced culture. Here is a comprehensive itinerary for the Upper Dolpa Trek, designed to give you a step-by-step guide to what you can expect on this unforgettable journey.

Overview of the Upper Dolpa Trek

• Duration: 20-22 days

• Highest Elevation: 5,360 meters (Numa La Pass)

• Difficulty: Challenging (requires good physical fitness and prior trekking experience)

• Best Time to Trek: March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)

• Starting Point: Juphal

• Ending Point: Juphal

Day-by-Day Upper Dolpa Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

• Activities: Arrive in Kathmandu, meet your Hilly Chilly team, and prepare for the trek.

• Highlights: Explore Kathmandu’s cultural heritage, visit temples and UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Durbar Square.

Upon arrival, you’ll meet your guide, who will brief you about the trek and help you with preparations. Spend the day sightseeing in Kathmandu and resting after your international flight.

Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (450m)

• Flight Duration: 1 hour

• Highlights: Fly to Nepalgunj, a vibrant city located in the southwestern part of Nepal near the Indian border.

• Activities: After arriving, you have some free time to explore Nepalgunj and enjoy its unique atmosphere.

Nepalgunj is the gateway to the western regions of Nepal, and a good place to acclimatize before heading further into the mountains.

Day 3: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,470m)

• Flight Duration: 35 minutes

• Highlights: Take a short flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal, the starting point of the trek.

• Activities: After reaching Juphal, take a short trek to Dunai (2,850m), the district capital of Dolpa.

This flight offers scenic views of the Himalayas and marks the beginning of your trek into one of Nepal’s most remote regions. Dunai is a bustling settlement where you’ll meet the locals and experience the authentic culture of the region.

Day 4: Trek from Dunai to Tarakot (2,540m)

• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours

• Highlights: Cross the Bheri River and follow a well-trodden trail, passing through terraced fields and small villages.

• Route: The trail leads through beautiful landscapes, with views of the surrounding peaks and the river.

Tarakot is a lovely village, surrounded by hills and traditional houses made of stone. It’s an ideal place to relax and explore the culture of the local people.

Day 5: Trek from Tarakot to Laini (3,130m)

• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours

• Highlights: Cross the Barbung Khola (river) and climb up to the village of Laini, which sits at the foot of the mountains.

• Route: The trail ascends through dense forests and narrow valleys, offering a glimpse into the remote lifestyle of Dolpa’s people.

Laini is a small settlement with a Tibetan-influenced culture. The views of the surrounding mountains create a tranquil and serene atmosphere.

Day 6: Trek from Laini to Nawarpani (3,530m)

• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours

• Highlights: Pass through high-altitude forests, cross a series of bridges, and take in breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.

• Route: The trail ascends steadily, leading to Nawarpani, a small village where you can rest and acclimatize.

At Nawarpani, you will begin to feel the true isolation of the Dolpa region. The landscapes become more rugged as you enter higher elevations.

Day 7: Trek from Nawarpani to Dho Tarap (4,090m)

• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours

• Highlights: Reach the remote village of Dho Tarap, which sits on a high plateau at the base of the Dolpo Himal range.

• Route: Ascend to Dho Tarap, passing through dry, arid terrain and Tibetan-style villages along the way.

Dho Tarap is one of the largest settlements in Upper Dolpa and offers a unique cultural experience. It’s an ideal spot for acclimatization, as the altitude increases significantly.

Day 8: Acclimatization Day at Dho Tarap

• Activities: Explore the area around Dho Tarap, visit Buddhist monasteries, and learn about the unique Tibetan culture of the region.

• Highlights: Visit the Dho Tarap Monastery and explore the surrounding high-altitude landscape.

Take this day to rest, acclimatize, and enjoy the peace and solitude of this remote location. It’s also an opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about their customs and way of life.

Day 9: Trek from Dho Tarap to Numa La Base Camp (4,800m)

• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours

• Highlights: Ascend to Numa La Base Camp, passing through rocky and barren landscapes with amazing views of the distant snow-covered peaks.

• Route: The trail becomes more challenging as you approach the base camp, but the views make it worthwhile.

The night at the Numa La Base Camp is cold and challenging, but it offers a peaceful experience under the stars.

Day 10: Cross Numa La Pass (5,360m) and Trek to Danigar (4,100m)

• Trek Duration: 7-8 hours

• Highlights: Cross the Numa La Pass, the highest point of the trek, and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

• Route: The descent after crossing the pass is steep but scenic, leading to the village of Danigar.

Crossing Numa La is a challenging yet rewarding experience. The views from the top are truly awe-inspiring, with the whole of Dolpo spread below you.

Day 11: Trek from Danigar to Yak Kharka (4,300m)

• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours

• Highlights: Continue through remote villages and cross streams, heading towards Yak Kharka.

• Route: The trail descends to lower elevations and provides more stunning views of the snow-covered peaks.

Yak Kharka offers beautiful views and is a great place to relax after a challenging day.

Day 12: Trek from Yak Kharka to Phoksundo Lake (3,660m)

• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours

• Highlights: Arrive at Phoksundo Lake, one of the most beautiful and sacred lakes in Nepal. The turquoise waters of the lake reflect the surrounding snowy peaks, creating an enchanting landscape.

• Route: The trail continues through forests and passes by waterfalls, leading to the lake.

Phoksundo Lake is a highlight of the trek, offering an ethereal setting that feels like a dream come true. The serene atmosphere is perfect for reflection and photography.

Day 13: Explore Phoksundo Lake and Rest Day

• Activities: Take a day to explore the surroundings of Phoksundo Lake, visit nearby monasteries, and take in the natural beauty.

• Highlights: Visit the ancient Bon Po Monastery and explore the surrounding areas for more spectacular views.

Phoksundo Lake is a peaceful place where you can soak in the incredible landscape and culture of Dolpa.

Day 14: Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Juphal (2,470m)

• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours

• Highlights: Retrace your steps back to Juphal.

• Route: The descent takes you through forests, pastures, and villages back to Juphal.

After several days in the rugged mountains, it will feel like a journey back to civilization, as you return to Juphal.

Day 15: Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj

• Flight Duration: 35 minutes

• Highlights: Fly back to Nepalgunj, enjoying views of the mountains one last time.

Day 16: Fly from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu

• Flight Duration: 1 hour

• Highlights: Arrive back in Kathmandu and rest after the epic trek.

Trekking Tips for Upper Dolpa

• Permits: The Upper Dolpa Trek requires special permits (Upper Dolpa Restricted Area Permit and TIMS), so be sure to arrange these in advance.

• Acclimatization: Due to the high altitude, take your time to acclimatize properly to prevent altitude sickness.

• Packing: Pack light but ensure you have proper clothing for high-altitude trekking, including warm layers, a sleeping bag, and a good-quality pair of trekking boots.

• Guides and Porters: Hire a local guide and porter for the best trekking experience and to support the local economy.

The Upper Dolpa Trek is a truly once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and with Hilly Chilly’s expert guides, you’ll experience the untouched beauty of Dolpa and its rich culture. Join us on this journey into the heart of Nepal’s wilderness!

 

The Upper Dolpa Trek is one of the most remote and unexplored treks in Nepal, offering a unique adventure for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Nestled in the far northwestern region of Nepal

Hilly Chilly