Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek - 28 Days

Destination

Nepal
Region

Dolpo Region
Trip Type

Trekking
Trip Duration

27 Nights/28 Days
Group Size

Minimum 02 Pax
Season

Spring & Autumn
Maximum Altitude

5,360m/17,580ft
Flight

KTM-KEP-DOP-KEP-KTM

Introduction

The Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote, mystical, and culturally rich high-altitude adventures. Hidden behind the Dhaulagiri and Kanjirowa ranges, Upper Dolpo remains a land untouched by time—where ancient Bon Buddhist culture, dramatic desert-like landscapes, sacred monasteries, and deep turquoise lakes create a truly surreal trekking experience.

This off-the-beaten-path journey follows rugged trails through the Shey Phoksundo National Park, crossing high passes above 5,000 meters, visiting centuries-old monasteries like Shey Gompa, and experiencing traditional lifestyles preserved for generations. The region’s isolation, raw beauty, and spiritual depth make the Upper Dolpo Circuit a dream for trekkers seeking authentic Himalayan wilderness.

The trek is challenging but incredibly rewarding, offering rare encounters with Himalayan wildlife, spectacular mountain views, dramatic canyons, arid plateaus, and the pristine beauty of Phoksundo Lake. With limited infrastructure and restricted access, Upper Dolpo is one of Nepal’s most exclusive trekking destinations.

Highlights of the Phoksundo Lake Trek

Explore the mystical Upper Dolpo, one of Nepal’s least-visited and culturally richest regions.
Walk around the breathtaking Phoksundo Lake, famous for its crystal-clear blue waters.
Visit Shey Gompa (Crystal Monastery)—a spiritual and cultural heart of Dolpo dating back over 800 years.
Cross challenging high passes like Kang La, Saldang La, and Jeng La for sweeping Himalayan panoramas.
Experience the unique Bon and Tibetan Buddhist culture preserved in remote villages like Saldang, Yangze, Namgung, and Dho Tarap.
Trek through Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to snow leopards, blue sheep, musk deer, and Himalayan wolves.
Follow ancient trading routes close to the Tibetan border.
Witness dramatic desert-like landscapes, red-rock gorges, yak caravans, and timeless Himalayan life.
A perfect trek for adventurers seeking authentic wilderness, silence, spirituality, and raw beauty away from commercial trails.

Best Time to Visit

Spring Season (March-May) and Autumn Season (September to Early December) are considered as the best time to go for this trek as we can expect mild temperature in the day and night and clear blue sky. However, the unpredictable weather pattern of mountain can cause frequent changes in the weather of specific places. Before trekking, we will inform the estimated weather pattern and temperature for trekking period during briefing session.

Essential Trekking Gears

As we do trekking from temperate to snow line regions, we will experience difference in temperature, so we must be prepared to tackle the hazardous situation. The right choice of right gears will definitely help us to reach to the targeted points. For the more details, you can click here for essential trekking gears. You can also print the checklist of trekking gears as you need to pack each and every gear that will be useful for the trekking. (Please note that, all the gears mentioned in the list may not be required.)

For more details of trekking, please refer to the trekking notes, You can find them on Gears Sections as well.

Infusion Trip Adventure team operates responsible tours and trekking and provides all-inclusive travel services. You will get worry-free services regarding the permits, fees, meals and accommodation along the trail. We are concerned with the pre-arrangement and booking for smooth operations of your trip. Your safety and enjoyment are always our main concern. With the experiences of travel, trekking and expedition for more than 7 years, we value the difference between a good experience and a great experience. Our reputation speaks for itself, we provide high-quality professional services to continuously exceed customer’s expectations and reinforce its market position in the field of trekking, expedition and tour-related services.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m/4,428ft)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed by a beautiful garland of seasonal flowers at the gate of the International Arrival Terminal.
With the final counting and loading of luggage into the vehicle, you will transfer to the hotel and check in.
After welcome refreshments, there will be a short briefing with the Infusion Trip Adventure Representative. You will get general information and orientation about the tour or trek.

Then you have free time in Kathmandu. You can explore the city.

Accommodation

Hotel

Day 02: Half-Day Sightseeing Tour and Trek Preparation.

After breakfast, proceed for a half-day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu City including the World Heritage Sites. It includes a tour of two sites below:
Pashupatinath Temple – the Temple of Lord Shiva situated on the bank of the holy Bagmati River. The temple is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bouddhanath Stupa– an ancient colossal stupa and the center of Tibetan Buddhism in the world
The rest of the day is free for trekking preparation, such as trekking gear shopping, packing on a duffle bag, etc.

In the evening – welcome dinner and traditional show in an authentic Nepali restaurant in Kathmandu. You will enjoy your dinner with different types of dances.

Accommodation

Hotel
Meals Included

B, D

Day 03: Fly to Nepalgunj (109m/357ft)

After breakfast, check out from the hotel transfer to Kathmandu Domestic Airport to board an onward flight to Nepalgunj to about 55 minutes. Upon arrival at Nepalgunj, transfer and check into the hotel.

Later, explore Water Parks, Mahendra Park, Bagheswori Temple and many more places of Nepalgunj. Shopping on the street, explore the unexplored culture, trekking preparation, etc. are the activities that can be done in Nepalgunj.

Accommodation

Standard Hotel
Meals Included

B, L, D
Flight Duration

55 minutes
Elevation Variation

-1,241mm

Day 04: Flight to Juphal (2,500m/8,203ft) and trek to Dunai (2,100m/6,890ft)

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Nepalgunj Airport to board an onward flight to Juphal Airport of Dolpa to about 40 minutes

After landing, we commence the trek by descending gently through narrow village trails, wheat fields, and apple orchards. The path meets the Bheri River, where we follow a wide and comfortable trail toward Dunai, the headquarters of Dolpa. The walk is short (2–3 hours), perfect for adjusting to the region. In Dunai, we can explore the bazaar, visit monasteries, or enjoy the quiet riverside.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D
Flight Duration

40 Minutes
Walking Distance

9.8 Km
Time Duration

5 Hours
Elevation Variation

+1991m

Day 05: Trek to Chhepka (2,700m/8,859ft)

After breakfast, you walk along the riverbank and gradually reach Suligad, the entrance gate of Shey Phoksundo National Park. Here, you register your permits before crossing a suspension bridge. The trail now becomes more beautiful, passing through mixed forests of pine, walnut, and bamboo. Small villages like Kageni and Jyalhasa appear along the way, offering resting spots. The path undulates with small ups and downs, always following the bright-blue river. After 5–6 hours of peaceful walking, you reach Chhepka, a small settlement with a few teahouses surrounded by greenery.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

14.8 Km
Time Duration

7 Hours
Elevation Variation

+600m

Day 06: Trek to Chhunuwar (3,120m/10,233ft)

After breakfast, begin the trek following Suligad river. After leaving Chhekpa, the path climbs gradually through thick pine, maple and rhododendron forests, crossing a series of small wooden bridges. We will pass several small settlements like Renji and Sumduwa, where the trail begins to open up with deeper gorge views. Continuing ahead, the trail undulates through serene forests until we will reach to Chhunuwar, known for its hot springs and peaceful riverside setting.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

13.5 Km
Time Duration

6 Hours
Elevation Variation

+420m

Day 07: Trek Ringmo (3,650m/11,976ft)

After leaving Chhunuwar, you follow a gentle trail through pine forests along the rushing blue river. The path slowly climbs uphill, but it is not very steep. As we walk, the valley becomes wider and the sound of the river gets louder and clearer. After about an hour, we will reach the junction for the Phoksundo Waterfall Viewpoint, where you can take a small break and enjoy the spectacular 167-meter-high Phoksundo Waterfall. From here, the trail continues on a slightly narrow cliff-side path, but it is safe and offers incredible views of the deep gorge below. Soon, the turquoise color of Phoksundo Lake appears in the distance. The trail then becomes easier as you enter the flat, peaceful area of Ringmo Village, a traditional Bon community right next to the lake.

After check into the lodge, we will explore the lake.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

5.95 Km
Time Duration

3 Hours
Elevation Variation

+530m

Day 08: Explore Phoksundo Lake & Surroundings (3,650m/11,976ft)

This day is dedicated to fully experiencing Phoksundo Lake, a jewel of Nepal. The lake sits right beside Ringmo, so a short walk brings you to its stunning turquoise shores. You can walk along the lakeside trail, visit high viewpoints, or simply sit quietly by the water. Many trekkers enjoy watching the reflections of the mountains on the crystal-clear lake surface.

In the afternoon, explore Tshowa Monastery, an 800-year-old Bon monastery perched above the lake. The spiritual atmosphere, traditional artifacts, and chanting rooms offer a rare glimpse into Dolpo’s ancient beliefs. Photography lovers will find endless opportunities around the lakeshore.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

2.7 Km
Time Duration

2 Hours

Day 09: Trek to Lower Forest Camp (3,650m/11,972ft)

Leaving the lake behind, we walk along a narrow cliffside trail before entering a remote valley. The trail hugs the cliffs on a dramatic path carved into rock, offering one of the most iconic sections of the Dolpo trek. After navigating these narrow trails, you walk through pine forests and open valleys until reaching the peaceful meadow. We will set up camp at Lower Forest Camp, near Phoksundo Khola , surrounded by complete wilderness.

Accommodation

Tented Camp
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

10.2 Km
Time Duration

6 Hours

Day 10: Trek to Kang La High Camp (4,640m/15,224ft)

Leaving Forest Camp near Phoksundo Khola, we will follow the left bank of Phoksundo Khola and cross the wooden bridge and continue walking towards Thulodhunga and further to Lar Tsa junction. From this junction we take a northeast trail following Tuk Kyaksa Khola which climbs steadily to the top of a steep ravine, opening up to breathtaking views of Kang La Pass. From this vantage point, you can also enjoy spectacular sights of Chamlang Peak 6 (6,739 m / 22,109 ft) and Peak 7 (6,105 m / 20,029 ft), standing proudly against the horizon.

Accommodation

Tented Camp
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

9.3 Km
Time Duration

7 Hours
Elevation Variation

+990m

Day 11: Cross Kang La Pass (5,360m/17,580ft) and trek to Shey Gompa (4,350m/14,272ft)

Early morning, start to climb up the steep trail towards Kang La Pass (5,360 m).

As you climb higher, the landscape becomes more rugged, and the final stretch to the pass rewards you with dramatic views of the surrounding snowcapped peaks, including the striking Chamlang ranges and the vast wilderness of Upper Dolpo. Standing on top of Kang La Pass feels like entering another world, with prayer flags fluttering in the cold mountain wind.

After enjoying the scenery, we will descend slowly on a rocky path that leads into a wide, beautiful valley. The trail finally brings you to Shey Gompa (4,360m), a peaceful and remote monastery surrounded by red cliffs, ancient mani walls, prayer wheels.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

11.6 Km
Time Duration

8 Hours
Elevation Variation

-290m

Day 12: Acclimatization Day at Shey Gompa (4,350m/14,268ft)

Today is our acclimatization day at Shey Gompa, giving our body time to adjust to the high altitude. We will explore the peaceful surroundings of this ancient monastery, walk around the colorful prayer walls, or take a short hike to nearby viewpoints for beautiful views of the Crystal Mountain which also holds spiritual significance to Buddhists. The mountain looks different than other as it seems its cliffs are coated in quartz and a wide array of marine fossils. The quiet atmosphere, fluttering prayer flags, and spiritual energy of Shey Gompa make it a perfect place to rest, relax, and prepare for the upcoming journey deeper into the Dolpo region.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D

Day 13: Trek to Namgung (4,400m/14,436ftft)

Leaving the serene surroundings of Shey Gompa, you follow a gentle trail that gradually climbs toward the Sela Bhanjyang Pass (5,113m/16,770ft) leading out of the Shey valley. The route is peaceful, with wide open landscapes, grazing yaks, and views of rugged cliffs. After crossing the pass, the trail descends into a remote valley dotted with traditional Dolpo settlements. The walk is steady and scenic, eventually bringing you to Namgung, a small village known for its ancient monastery built against a rocky hillside. The quiet environment, stone houses, and warm hospitality of the locals make Namgung a beautiful place to stop for the night.

Accommodation

Tented Camp
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

12.4 Km
Time Duration

7 Hours
Elevation Variation

+50m

Day 14: Trek to Saldang (4,050m/13,288ftft)

After breakfast, start to walk towards Saldang. The trail goes gently uphill at first as we leave Namgung village, passing mani walls, chortens, and dry fields. The path is mostly flat and open, with wide views of the valley and surrounding barren hills. We will cross a few small streams and see yaks grazing along the way. Near the end, the trail goes slightly downhill and leads into Saldang village, a large and lively settlement with stone houses, monasteries, and terraced fields. It is a relaxed day with no difficult climbs.

Accommodation

Tented Camp
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

6.75 Km
Time Duration

5 Hours
Elevation Variation

-350m

Day 15: Trek to Khomagaon (4,250m/13,940ft)

Leaving Saldang village, we will begin to descend to Nagon Khola. Crossing the river, we will ascend to Saldang Pass passing through wide alpine valleys, dry landscapes and with the beautiful views of barren hills, high ridges, and distant snow-capped peaks typical of the trans-Himalayan terrain. From the pass, we will descend for several hours of steady walking on gradual trail to reach Khoma, a small peaceful village surrounded by open pastureland and rugged mountains.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

9 Km
Time Duration

7 Hours
Elevation Variation

+200m

Day 16: Trek to Shimen (3,900m)

This day, the walk will be calm and pleasant walk through the quiet landscapes of Upper Dolpo. Leaving Khomagaon, the path passes through barren high-altitude terrain, traditional yak pastures, and small seasonal streams, offering wide views of the rugged mountains that define the Dolpo region. The trail has gentle ascents and descents with some rocky sections but no technical difficulty. As we approach Shimen, the route gradually descends into this quiet mountain village known for its stone houses, prayer flags, and peaceful atmosphere.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

8.85 Km
Time Duration

6 Hours
Elevation Variation

+350m

Day 17: Trek to Tinje Gaon (4,200m/13,780ft)

Leaving Shimen, we will begin the trek towards Tinje following the river that passes through wide open land with dry hills and rocky mountains all around. The path is mostly gentle, with a few gradual ups and downs, making the walk comfortable. Along the way, we can enjoy clear views of the surrounding landscape, human settlements and several villages such as Sonmagaon and Falgaon. After several hours of walking, we will reach Tinje, one of the largest villages in Upper Dolpo. In the evening, we will explore the villages and meet local people.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

14.32 Km
Time Duration

8 Hours
Elevation Variation

+300m

Day 18: Trek to Sulun Khola Camp(4,450m/14,600ft)

The trek from Tinje begins with a gradual walk across wide valleys and dry, open landscapes typical of Upper Dolpo. Leaving the village, the trail follows a river and passes through grazing areas used by local herders. The scenery is peaceful, with views of barren hills, rocky cliffs, and distant snow peaks. The walk is mostly gentle with a few small climbs and descents. After several hours of steady trekking, you reach a suitable camping area on the bank of Sulun Khola in a quiet valley, where you rest for the night surrounded by the remote Himalayan wilderness.

Accommodation

Tented Camp
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

16.73 Km
Time Duration

8 Hours
Elevation Variation

+250m

Day 19: Trek to Dho Tarap (4,100m/13,452ft)

Early morning, start the trek towards Dho Tara. The trail follows the river and gradually ascends towards Chhyo La Pass and enter towards Tarap valley. The landscape slowly changes as we approach the Tarap Valley, becoming wider and greener. The walk remains moderate and comfortable, passing small settlements of Tokyu, Gagar Takmar , chortens, mani walls, and grazing fields. After a few hours of trekking, you arrive at Dho Tarap, a large and culturally rich village famous for its monasteries, traditional stone houses, and strong Tibetan Buddhist and Bon culture. Trekkers usually spend an extra day here to explore and rest.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

19 Km
Time Duration

9 Hours
Elevation Variation

-350m

Day 20: Rest Day at Dho Tarap

A rest day at Dho Tarap is a perfect opportunity to relax and explore one of the most important villages in Upper Dolpo. Surrounded by a wide green valley, Dho Tarap is known for its strong Tibetan Buddhist and Bon culture. On this day, you can take short walks around the village to visit ancient monasteries, long mani walls, chortens, and traditional stone houses decorated with prayer flags. It is also a great time to interact with local people and learn about their simple mountain lifestyle. The rest day helps your body adjust to the altitude while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery of the Tarap Valley.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D

Day 21: Trek to Toltol (3,710m/12,172ft)

Leaving Dho Tarap, the trail gently descends through the beautiful Tarap Valley, following the course of the Tarap Chu River. We will walk across open grasslands, juniper bushes, wild roses, narrow gorges, and occasional rocky sections, enjoying dramatic views of barren cliffs and snow-capped peaks rising above the valley.

As soon we reach Toltol, we will set up camp at peaceful and stunning place.

Accommodation

Tented Camp
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

17.7 Km
Time Duration

9 Hours
Elevation Variation

-390m

Day 22: Trek to Lasicap (2,600m/8,531ft)

After breakfast, begin the trek down towards Lasicap following the Tarap Khola. The terrain becomes more exposed and rugged, with loose stones and very little vegetation. This section feels more remote, as Lasicap is a seasonal camp rather than a permanent settlement. Strong winds and cold temperatures are common. As we reach Lasicap, set up the camp if required.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

19.2 Km
Time Duration

9 Hours
Elevation Variation

-1,110m

Day 23: Trek to Tarakot (2,750m/9,023ft)

Leaving the exposed Lasicap camp, the trail climbs briefly before crossing Lasi La Pass, offering wide views of barren mountains and deep valleys. After the pass, the route descends steeply on rocky and sometimes loose trails, passing through narrow gorges, eroded cliffs, and dry riverbeds.

The trail follows the Tarap Khola for long sections, crossing suspension bridges and small settlements along the way. After a long day of walking, the trek reaches Tarakot, a historic village with traditional houses, terraced fields, and a small fortress, marking a clear transition from the harsh Upper Dolpo terrain to the lower Dolpo region.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

9.3 Km
Time Duration

6 Hours
Elevation Variation

+150m

Day 24: Trek to Dunai (2,100m/6,890ft)

This day, the trek to Dunai is an easy and pleasant which will take about 3–4 hours. The trail follows the Bheri River on a wide and clear path with gentle ups and downs. Along the way, we will pass small villages, green fields, and suspension bridges, and the scenery feels warmer and greener than the higher Dolpo areas. We will meet local people walking along the trail or working in their fields. The walk slowly leads to Dunai, the main town of Dolpa, where we will find shops, lodges, and road access.

Accommodation

Teahosue Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

16 Km
Time Duration

7 Hours
Elevation Variation

-650m

Day 25: Backtrack to Juphal (2,500m/8,203ft)

Leaving Dunai, the trail climbs gradually on a well-maintained path, passing through small villages, cultivated fields, and forested areas. The route offers nice views of the surrounding hills and the Bheri River valley below. The walk is mostly uphill but not steep, making it comfortable after finishing the main trek. The trail ends at Juphal, a small hill town with an airport, where the trekking journey officially comes to an end.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D
Walking Distance

9.8 Km
Time Duration

6 Hours
Elevation Variation

+400m

Day 26: Fly back to Nepalgunj and connecting the flight to Kathmandu (1,350m/4,428ft) – 55 minutes

After breakfast, timely transfer to Airport to board an onward flight to Nepalgunj that takes about 1 hour. Upon arrival at Nepalgunj, we will take flight to Kathmandu to about 55 minutes with the view of Mountain ranges from the left side of aircraft. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer and check into the hotel.

(The flight of Dopla-Nepalgunj and vice versa will require good weather for timely operation. In case of any unavoidable circumstances like, bad weather, flight cancellation, we need to wait for next day.)

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L, D
Flight Time

40 + 55 minutes
Elevation Variation

-1,150m

Day 27: Contingency day on a trek or Kathmandu in case of any unavoidable circumstances.

If the plan goes smoothly with the flight on the required day/time, this day will be a free day in Kathmandu for leisure activities or sightseeing tours (on your own), last-minute shopping, bag packing, etc. On request, we will arrange a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu.

Eve: Group Farewell dinner at an authentic Nepali Restaurant in Kathmandu.

Accommodation

Teahouse Lodge
Meals Included

B, L

Day 28: Transfer to International Airport for final departure.

Timely transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport to board an onward flight to home country 3 hours earlier than the scheduled flight departing time. We wish you a happy journey during your flight from Nepal to your home country with the hope to see you on your next visit to Nepal.

Meals Included

B

Services Included

Services of all arrival/departure and ground transfers in a private vehicle accompanied by an English-speaking tour representative/escort/guide.
Round trip of Kathmandu/Nepalgunj/Dolpa/Nepalgunj/Kathmandu on a fixed wings aircraft.
Four-night accommodation at a Hotel in Kathmandu on a Twin/Double Room Sharing on a bed and breakfast basis inclusive of all applicable taxes.
23 Nights’ accommodation during the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek at the best available trekkers lodges/resorts & tented camps served served with all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) at all places.
Sightseeing Tour in Kathmandu with an experienced English Speaking Tour Guide inclusive of all monument fees.
Welcome and Farewell Dinner at Authentic Nepalese Restaurant in Kathmandu featuring a cultural program.
A team of Experienced trekking guide, porters (as required) with their daily wages, equipment, meals, clothing, and insurance, etc.
Updated and Detailed Trekking maps with contour lines.
Permits & Document
Safe Drinking water (2L per person per day), Local SIM Card, Souvenirs.
Comprehensive First Aid Medical Kit

Services Excluded

International Airfare from/to Kathmandu
Nepal Entry Tourist Visa (USD 50 for 30 days)
Lunch and Dinner while you are in Kathmandu (except Welcome and Farewell Dinner)
Any additional stay in Kathmandu before and after the trekking (in case of any reason).
Personal Equipment including trekking gear, clothing, toiletries, Personal Medical Kit, and any other items.
Personal Porters can be arranged on request in advance and charge USD 25 per day.
Personal expenses such as; laundry, bar bills, tips and gratuities to the trekking support team, alcoholic beverages, telephone calls, internet services, toiletries, battery charges, soft drinks, etc.
Comprehensive Travel Insurance or “Umbrella Insurance” covering; Illness, hospitalization, travel medicines, loss of valuables, thefts, change of itinerary, flight and tour cancellations due to unavoidable circumstances and most of all Emergency Helicopter Charter for evacuation purposes.
Any items that are not mentioned in the above ‘Services Included Section.’

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