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The Upper Dolpo Trek is a journey into one of Nepal's most remote and culturally rich regions. With its untouched beauty, rich Bon religion, and distinct Tibetan-influenced culture, this trek offers a rare glimpse into a mystical land. If you’re planning to embark on this incredible trek, it’s essential to understand the costs, logistics, and cultural aspects that make this trek so unique.
Trek Cost Overview: The Upper Dolpo Trek costs vary depending on services, guide options, and group size. A typical trek can range between $2,800 to USD 4,500 per person for a 23 to 28-day journey. This includes permits, transportation, accommodation, guide and porter services, and meals during the trek.
Guide and Porter Costs:
Hiring a Guide: A licensed trekking guide ensures your safety and provides valuable insights into the region's history and culture. The cost of hiring a professional guide for the Upper Dolpo Trek is typically around $30 to $50 per day. This cost covers their salary, food, accommodation, and insurance.
Porter Cost: A porter can be hired to carry your belongings (usually up to 20-25 kg). The cost of hiring a porter ranges from $20 to $30 per day.
Porter-Cum-Guide: For smaller groups or budget-conscious trekkers, hiring a porter-cum-guide can be a good option. They fulfill both roles, guiding while also carrying some of your gear. The cost is around $25 to USD 40 per day.
Restricted Area Permit: Upper Dolpo is a restricted trekking area, requiring special permits. The cost for the Upper Dolpo Permit is USD 500 for the first 10 days and USD 50 for each additional day.
Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit: You will also need a permit to enter Shey Phoksundo National Park, which costs $30 per person.
Throughout the trek, food and accommodation costs are relatively higher than in other regions due to the remoteness of Upper Dolpo. Expect to pay around $5 to USD 10 per meal, with daily food expenses ranging between $20 to USD 30. Basic tea houses provide simple meals like dal bhat, noodles, and Tibetan bread.
Getting to the starting point of the Upper Dolpo Trek involves a flight and sometimes a jeep ride:
Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj: $150 to USD 180 per person (one way).
Flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal: $160 to USD 200 per person (one way).
Local jeep from Juphal: Depending on road conditions, a local jeep might be required to reach the starting point of the trek. This can cost between $20 to USD 50 depending on the distance.
The best time to undertake the Upper Dolpo Trek is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is stable, the skies are clear, and the temperature is moderate, making it ideal for trekking. Monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, making the trail dangerous and muddy, while winter (December to February) brings extreme cold and heavy snow.
Upper Dolpo is a culturally rich region influenced by the ancient Bon religion. Bon predates Tibetan Buddhism and is deeply rooted in shamanistic and animistic traditions. The locals practice Bon with reverence to nature, ancestors, and spirits. During your trek, you’ll visit Bon monasteries and witness ancient rituals that showcase the deeply spiritual way of life of the Dolpo-pa people.
The Dolpo region also carries a strong Tibetan influence, evident in the architecture, language, and customs. Villages like Ringmo and Shey Gompa are home to ancient monasteries that reflect the harmony between the Bon and Buddhist beliefs. Exploring these sacred sites and interacting with locals offers a unique cultural experience.
The Upper Dolpo Trek is typically 23 to 28 days long, depending on the pace and side trips included. The trek covers high-altitude passes, remote valleys, and visits to sacred monasteries. The high passes, such as the Kang La Pass (5,360 meters), challenge trekkers, while the pristine Shey Phoksundo Lake offers a serene resting point.
Cost: The overall cost of the Upper Dolpo Trek ranges from $2,800 to USD 4,500, depending on services and group size.
Guide/Porter: Hiring a guide costs $30-USD 50 per day, a porter $20-USD 30 per day, and a porter-cum-guide $25-USD 40 per day.
Permits: The restricted area permit costs USD 500 for 10 days, with an additional $50 per extra day. National Park entry fees are USD 30.
Food: Daily food expenses range from $20 to USD 30.
Best Time: The best times for trekking are in spring and autumn.
Culture: The trek offers a unique opportunity to experience the Bon religion and Tibetan-influenced culture.
Transportation: Flights to Dolpo will cost around $300-USD 400, with local jeep costs varying between $20-USD 50.
Embarking on the Upper Dolpo Trek is not just an adventure but a deep dive into a culturally rich and remote part of Nepal. Whether you are drawn by its ancient monasteries, breathtaking landscapes, or the spiritual calm of the Bon religion, this trek promises an unforgettable experience. Be sure to plan well, hire a knowledgeable guide, and respect the unique traditions of the Dolpo-Pa people.
For more information on planning your Upper Dolpo Trek, feel free to contact Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks. We provide experienced guides, and flexible itineraries, and ensure your trek is safe, enjoyable, and culturally enriching.
Upper Dolpo Trek is renowned for its remote and untouched landscapes, ancient Tibetan culture, and diverse flora and fauna.
The best time to embark on the Upper Dolpo Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is clear and stable.
The duration of the Upper Dolpo Trek typically ranges from 18 to 24 days, depending on the chosen itinerary and trekking pace.
The Upper Dolpo Trek is considered to be moderately strenuous, requiring a good level of physical fitness and endurance due to its high altitude and rugged terrain.
Yes, permits are required for the Upper Dolpo Trek. Trekkers need to obtain the Restricted Area Permit and the Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit.
The highest point of the Upper Dolpo Trek is often Shey Gompa, reaching an elevation of approximately 5,160 meters (16,929 feet).
Accommodation during the Upper Dolpo Trek typically includes teahouses, guesthouses, and camping in designated areas.
While it's technically possible to trek Upper Dolpo independently, hiring a local guide is highly recommended due to the remote nature of the region and the complexity of the trails.
Wildlife sightings during the Upper Dolpo Trek may include blue sheep, Himalayan thar, musk deer, snow leopards (rarely), various bird species, and yaks.
Yes, there are several cultural highlights along the Upper Dolpo Trek, including ancient monasteries, traditional Tibetan villages, and interactions with the local people, who follow Tibetan Buddhism.
Essential items to pack for the Upper Dolpo Trek include sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing layers, a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, a first aid kit, water purification tablets, and high SPF sunscreen.
Communication and internet connectivity are extremely limited during the Upper Dolpo Trek, with sporadic mobile network coverage in some areas and no internet access. It's advisable to inform loved ones beforehand about potential communication gaps.
Acclimatization measures during the Upper Dolpo Trek include gradual altitude gain, regular hydration, and rest days at strategic points to allow the body to adjust to high altitudes.
Yes, it's possible to combine the Upper Dolpo Trek with other treks or tours in neighboring regions, such as the Annapurna Circuit or the Mustang region, depending on time and logistics.
Emergency evacuation services via helicopter are available in case of serious medical emergencies during the Upper Dolpo Trek, but it's crucial to have adequate travel insurance covering such situations.
Upper Dolpo Trek is one of the most remote and adventurous trekking destinations in Nepal. Nestled in the northwestern region of the country, Upper Dolpo remains an isolated treasure, offering breathtaking landscapes, ancient Buddhist culture, and the mystical beauty of Shey Phoksundo Lake. The trek takes you through rugged trails, past traditional villages, and over high passes, providing a true wilderness experience.
This article will cover all the essential aspects of the Upper Dolpo Trek, including Upper Dolpo Trek cost for Nepali trekkers, itinerary options, map details, permits, difficulty level, and comparisons with other treks like Upper Mustang and Lower Dolpo. If you're looking for an unforgettable Himalayan adventure, this guide will provide all the necessary information.
The Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek typically takes around 22 to 27 days, depending on the route and pace. Here is a standard itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m) – Hotel check-in & trek briefing
Day 2: Flight to Nepalgunj (150m) – Overnight stay in Nepalgunj
Day 3: Flight to Juphal (2,475m) & trek to Dunai (2,140m) – 3 hours trek
Day 4: Trek from Dunai to Chhepka (2,670m) – 6-7 hours trek
Day 5: Chhepka to Ringmo Village (3,600m) – 7 hours trek
Day 6: Acclimatization at Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,611m) – Explore the stunning blue lake
Day 7: Ringmo to Phoksundo Khola (3,500m) – 6-7 hours trek
Day 8: Trek to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4,400m) – 7 hours trek
Day 9: Cross Kang La Pass (5,350m) & trek to Shey Gompa (4,126m) – 7 hours trek
Day 10: Rest day at Shey Gompa – Explore the 800-year-old monastery
Day 11: Trek to Namgung (4,360m) – 6 hours trek
Day 12: Namgung to Saldang (3,770m) – 4-5 hours trek
Day 13: Saldang to Yangze Gompa (4,960m) – 5 hours trek
Day 14: Yangze Gompa to Sibu (4,560m) – 5-6 hours trek
Day 15: Sibu to Jeng La Phedi (4,900m) – 5 hours trek
Day 16: Cross Jeng La Pass (5,090m) & trek to Tokyu Gaon (4,200m) – 6 hours trek
Day 17: Tokyu Gaon to Dho Tarap (4,040m) – 4 hours trek
Day 18: Dho Tarap to Tarap Khola (3,800m) – 6-7 hours trek
Day 19: Tarap Khola to Khanigaon (3,150m) – 6-7 hours trek
Day 20: Khanigaon to Tarakot (2,537m) – 5 hours trek
Day 21: Tarakot to Dunai – 5 hours trek
Day 22: Dunai to Juphal – 3 hours trek
Day 23: Flight to Nepalgunj & Kathmandu – End of trek
If you're looking for a shorter and slightly easier version, the Lower Dolpo Trek takes around 14 to 18 days. The trail covers Shey Phoksundo Lake, Tarakot, and Dunai while skipping the higher altitudes of Upper Dolpo.
The cost of the Upper Dolpo Trek varies based on permits, logistics, and group size. Here’s a breakdown:
Guide & porter: NPR 50,000 - NPR 70,000 (for entire trek)
Permits: NPR 2,000 - NPR 5,000 per person
Flights: NPR 20,000 - NPR 30,000 (Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Juphal)
Food & accommodation: NPR 50,000 - NPR 80,000
Total Estimated Cost: NPR 130,000 - NPR 180,000 per person
Upper Dolpo Trek Permit: USD 500 for first 10 days, USD 50 per additional day
Guide & Porter: USD 600 - USD 1,000
Flights: USD 300 - USD 500
Lodging & Food: USD 600 - USD 1,000
Total Estimated Cost: USD 2,500 - USD 3,500 per person
Since Upper Dolpo is a restricted area, trekkers require the following permits:
Restricted Area Permit: USD 500 (first 10 days) + USD 50/day
Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit: NPR 3,000 (for foreigners), NPR 100 (for Nepalis)
Altitude: Reaches over 5,300m, requiring acclimatization
Duration: Long trek (22-27 days) with strenuous walking
Weather: Extreme cold, especially in winter
Remoteness: Limited facilities, requiring full self-sufficiency
Difficulty Level: Challenging (Requires prior trekking experience)
Trekking costs in Nepal vary based on the region:
Everest Base Camp Trek: USD 1,200 - USD 2,500
Annapurna Circuit Trek: USD 800 - USD 1,800
Upper Mustang Trek: USD 2,000 - USD 3,000
Upper Dolpo Trek: USD 2,500 - USD 3,500
| Factors | Upper Dolpo | Upper Mustang |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Cost | High (USD 500) | Medium (USD 500) |
| Trekking Days | 22-27 days | 10-14 days |
| Altitude | 5,350m | 4,200m |
| Difficulty | Very Hard | Moderate |
| Accessibility | Remote, requires multiple flights | Accessible by road |
The Upper Dolpo Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those seeking raw Himalayan beauty and cultural immersion. Though expensive and challenging, the trek rewards adventurers with stunning landscapes, Tibetan culture, and the breathtaking Shey Phoksundo Lake. If you’re up for an extraordinary adventure, Himalayan Adventure International Treks is here to help you make it happen.
For bookings and inquiries, contact us today
Gerhard Haas
4th Oct, 2015
The trip is amazing, the views, the people, the culture the sense of pride making it to Upper Dolpo, with the whole experience handled masterfully by our guide Pramod. Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks is owned and operated by local Nepalese - they know the culture and all the lodge managers better than any other company, so you get excellent service. Our guide Pramod was fluent in English and knows every nook and cranny of the Dolpo Region. He has a wonderful sense of humor, always sm... See more iling, and is also highly medically trained. He had everything in his medical kit box to assist and get our bud well. See less...
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