How difficult is the Upper Dolpo Trek?

The trek is strenuous, requiring long trekking days, high-altitude passes over 5,000m, and trekking in remote areas with limited facilities. Prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are highly recommended.

What permits are required?

You will need three permits: Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – $500 per person for the first 10 days, then $50 per day thereafter Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit – $30 per person Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card – $20 per person

Is there an option for a shorter Upper Dolpo Trek?

Yes, a Phoksundo Lake Trek (10-12 days) is a shorter alternative, taking you only to Phoksundo Lake and Ringmo Village without crossing high passes.

Upper Dolpo Trek – Nepal Treks By Kishan

Transportation
Jeep, Airlines
Accomodation
3-Star Hotels & Teahouses/Camping during the trek
Maximum Altitude
5,360m (Kang La Pass)
Departure from
Kathmandu
Best season
May-October
Tour type
Remote Trekking, Cultural Exploration
Group Size
2-10
Language
English, Nepali, Tibetan
Fitness level
Moderate to Strenuous
Meals
All meals during the trek (Nepali, Tibetan, and Continental)
Minimum Age
18
Maximum Age
13
Group Size
2
Destinations
Dolpo Region, Kanchenjunga Region
Activities
Cultural Tours, Hiking, Jungle Safari, Mountain Climbing, Trekking, Wildlife Exploration
Trip Type
Budget Travel, Cultural, High Altitude, Home Stay, Nature Friendly
Difficulty
Medium

Overview

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Cost

FAQs

Map

The Upper Dolpo Trek is a challenging and rewarding journey into one of Nepal’s most remote regions, bordering Tibet. This trek follows ancient trade routes, crossing high Himalayan passes over 5,000m, visiting the Shey Gompa monastery, and exploring the beautiful Phoksundo Lake (3,611m). It is one of Nepal’s restricted areas, requiring special permits, and offers a rare chance to witness the Bonpo and Tibetan Buddhist culture that has remained unchanged for centuries.

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Key Highlights

Explore the Shey Phoksundo National Park – Nepal’s largest national park
Visit Shey Gompa, a 12th-century Buddhist monastery, known as the "Spiritual Heart of Dolpo"
Experience the Tibetan-influenced culture of Dolpo’s remote villages
Witness the stunning Phoksundo Lake (3,611m) – Nepal’s deepest and most turquoise lake
Cross three high passes: Kang La (5,360m), Saldang La (5,200m), and Jeng La (5,110m)
Less crowded and untouched by modern development