Upper Dolpo Trek and Shey Phoksundo Lake offer a breathtaking adventure into the remote and mystical regions of western Nepal. The Upper Dolpo Trek takes you through high-altitude passes, ancient Tibetan-influenced villages, and rugged landscapes, showcasing the untouched beauty of the Himalayas. This trek is known for its remoteness, cultural richness, and spiritual significance, with highlights including the Shey Gompa monastery and the pristine wilderness of the region.
At the heart of this journey lies Shey Phoksundo Lake, a mesmerizing turquoise lake situated at an altitude of 3,611 meters (11,849 ft) within Shey Phoksundo National Park. The lake is famous for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and surrounding snow-capped peaks. It holds deep spiritual importance for the local Bon and Buddhist communities.
Together, the trek and the lake offer an unforgettable experience for those seeking both natural beauty and cultural depth, far from the crowded trekking routes of Nepal.
Please note that the amount displayed in USD is indicative only. The actual amount payable will be charged in EUR and may differ based on the applicable exchange rate at the time of transaction.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed by our local representative. A private transfer will take you to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to stroll through the bustling streets of Thamel, a lively district filled with shops, cafés, and traditional handicraft stores. Evening briefing with your guide about the trek ahead.
Day 2: Exploring the Kathmandu Valley
A guided sightseeing tour introduces you to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Kathmandu Valley. Visit the spiritual Swayambhunath Stupa (the Monkey Temple), the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath on the banks of the Bagmati River, and the majestic Boudhanath Stupa—one of the largest in the world. End the day in Patan Durbar Square, known for its ancient palaces and intricately carved temples.
Day 3: Kathmandu – Nepalgunj (400 m)
Morning flight to Nepalgunj, a bustling city in the southwestern Terai plains (about 1.5 hours). Located near the Indian border, Nepalgunj offers a different atmosphere from the Himalayan towns. Check into your hotel and enjoy a short orientation walk through its busy markets.
Day 4: Contingency Day
An extra day reserved in case of flight delays due to weather—common in the mountains. If unused, it can be spent exploring Nepalgunj further or starting the trek earlier.
Day 5: Nepalgunj – Juphal – Dunai (2,200 m) | 4 hrs trek
A scenic 35-minute mountain flight takes you to Juphal, a small airstrip perched on the hillside. From here, begin trekking through terraced fields and along the Bheri River to reach Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpo. Overnight in camp or local lodge.
Day 6: Dunai – Tarakot (2,455 m) | 5 hrs
Follow the trail along the Thuli Bheri River through fertile valleys and small farming villages. Visit the ancient Pemachholing Monastery, set dramatically on a hilltop, before reaching Tarakot—a historic fortress town once guarding the trade route to Tibet.
Day 7: Tarakot – Lahini (3,260 m) | 7 hrs
Begin ascending into the Tarap Chu Valley, following a narrow gorge and occasionally crossing suspension bridges. Pass scattered hamlets and grazing pastures before reaching the campsite at Lahini.
Day 8: Lahini – Surdum (3,620 m) | 5 hrs
A slow-paced day due to steeper terrain. The path winds through rocky slopes and alpine meadows with views of snow peaks. Camp at Surdum, surrounded by wild highland scenery.
Day 9: Surdum – Dho Tarap (4,040 m) | 4 hrs
Continue up the Tarap Chu Valley. Along the way, spot the Ribo Bhumpa Monastery, signaling you’re close to the picturesque village of Dho Tarap. This ancient settlement is home to both Buddhist and Bonpo cultures, evident in its prayer flags, chortens, and mani walls.
Day 10: Dho Tarap (4,040 m) – Rest & Exploration
Spend the day exploring Dho Tarap. Visit local monasteries, interact with villagers dressed in traditional Tibetan-style attire, and acclimatize to the altitude. This is also an opportunity to observe local farming and herding practices.
Day 11: Dho Tarap – Foot of Khyung La (4,550 m) | 6 hrs
Walk through the Tarap Chu Valley, passing the village of Tokyu with its beautiful monastery. Continue to the base of Khyung La Pass, setting camp in a remote high pasture.
Day 12: Cross Khyung La (5,000 m) – Langmasia La (5,100 m) | 8 hrs
A challenging day crossing Khyung La Pass, with sweeping Himalayan views. Descend briefly before tackling Langmasia La Pass. Camp just beyond the pass in a rugged alpine landscape.
Day 13: Langmasia La – Sela Mungchung La (5,000+ m) | 8 hrs
Another high pass day, climbing to Sela Mungchung La. The descent reveals stark, remote valleys rarely visited by trekkers. Set camp in a sheltered meadow.
Day 14: Sela Mungchung La – Shey Gompa (4,350 m) | 4 hrs
Descend into the Shey Valley, reaching the fabled Shey Gompa, one of Dolpo’s most sacred monasteries, dating back to the 11th century. Surrounded by mountains and spirituality, this is a highlight of the trek.
Day 15: Shey Gompa – Mendok Ding | 8 hrs
A long day’s walk out of the Tar Valley, visiting Tsakang Monastery, a hermitage clinging to a cliffside. Continue to Mendok Ding, where camp is set.
Day 16: Mendok Ding – Lar Tsa | 4 hrs
A more relaxed day, descending gradually through alpine pastures to reach Lar Tsa.
Day 17: Lar Tsa – Chunemba | 6 hrs
Follow a ridge with dramatic views before a steep descent to Kang Gompa, a monastery with ancient murals. Continue to the campsite at Chunemba.
Day 18: Chunemba – Phoksundo Lake – Ringmo | 6 hrs
Trek to the jewel of Dolpo, Phoksundo Lake, with its surreal turquoise waters. Skirt along the lakeshore to reach Ringmo Village, a traditional settlement with stone houses and a Bon monastery.
Day 19: Ringmo – Rest & Cultural Exploration
Spend the day exploring Ringmo and its monastery, decorated with vivid Buddhist paintings and statues. Short walks around the lake offer superb photo opportunities.
Day 20: Ringmo – Hanke | 7 hrs
Leave Ringmo, crossing a ridge at 3,780 m for panoramic lake views. Descend past Nepal’s highest waterfall (300 m) before reaching Hanke.
Day 21: Hanke – Juphal | 6 hrs
Retrace your way through green valleys, passing terraced fields and friendly villages, before arriving back in Juphal.
Day 22: Juphal – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu
Morning flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, followed by a connecting flight to Kathmandu. Free time in the afternoon for shopping or relaxation.
Day 23: Kathmandu – Free Day
A leisure day in Kathmandu for last-minute shopping, café-hopping, or visiting any missed sites.
Day 24: Departure from Nepal
Transfer to the airport for your international flight home, carrying unforgettable memories of the remote valleys, sacred monasteries, and high passes of Upper Dolpo.
Price Includes
→ KTM hotel room with breakfast
→ Sightseeing in three cultural heritage sites
→ National park permit fee
→ Special trekking permit fee
→ Government licensed and trained local English speaking guide
→ All hot meals during the trek
→ Guide, food, insurance, salary, equipment, transportation & local taxes
→ All the transport and internal flights during the program
The price does not include
→ Your all kinds of insurance
→ Visa fees
→ Lunch and dinner in cities
→ Drinks
→ Tips
→ On May or from mid August to October (To be agreed from at least 4 people)