Upper Dolpo Trek

Day 1: Kathmandu
Day 2: Fly to Nepalgunj (150 m) 
Day 3: Morning flight to Jhupal (2,475 m) and drive to Dunai (2,140 m) – 3 hrs
Day 4: Trek to Chepka (2,838 m) – 6 hrs
Day 5: Trek to Samuda Village (2,960m) from Chepka – 6hrs
Day 6: Trek from Samuda Village to Phoksundo Lake (3,630 m) – 6hrs
Day 7: Leisure day
Day 8: Trek to Phoksundo Khola (3,750 m) – 5 hrs.
Day 9: Trek to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4,717 m) from Phoksundo Khola – 4hrs
Day 10: Cross Kang -La (5,350 m) and trek to Shey Gompa (4,160 m) – 6hrs
Day 11: Leisure day at Shey Gompa 
Day 12: Trek from Shey Gompa to Namgung (4,608 m) 
Day 13: Trek to Saldang (3,770 m) from Namgung – 5 hours.
Day 14: Trek from Saldang to Cha-Gaon (4,910 m) – 5 hrs.
Day 15: Trek to Dachu Khola Camp (4,700 m) from Cha-Gaon – 6hrs
Day 16: Cross Jayanta-La at (5,220 m) and walk to Phedi (4,900 m) – 6 hrs
Day 17: Trek to Tokyu Gaon (4,209 m) – 6hrs
Day 18: Trek to Dho Tarap (3, 944 m) – 5hrs
Day 19: Trek to Ghyamgar (3,759 m) – 7hrs
Day 20: Trek to Tarap Khola (3,652 m) – 6hrs
Day 21: Trek to Tarakot (2,540 m) – 6hrs
Day 22: Trek to Dunai and drive to Jhupal 
Day 23: Departure

Day 1: Kathmandu

After you arrive at Kathmandu airport, Quest Himalayan Trek and Expedition representatives will pick you up and escort you to your pre-booked hotel. After check-in, you can choose either to rest for the entire day or stroll around the city. In the evening, there is a meeting hosted for you guys where you get detailed information about upcoming adventure days. After the meeting, enjoy your welcome dinner at a renowned Nepalese restaurant and get a taste of Nepalese food.

Day 2: Fly to Nepalgunj (150 m) 

Transfer to the Kathmandu domestic airport for your flight to Nepalgunj, a city of low and warmer temperatures. During your flight, enjoy the stunning views of mountains including Langtang, Ganesh, Manaslu, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, etc.

As you arrive in Nepalgunj, our team of Quest Himalayan Trek will greet you and transfer you to the hotel safely. Check in to the hotel and rest for a while. In the afternoon, you can explore the city and get a glimpse of the South Western Nepalese culture and tradition.

Day 3: Morning flight to Jhupal (2,475 m) and drive to Dunai (2,140 m) – 3 hrs

After enjoying your early morning breakfast, transfer to Nepalgunj airport. You will catch a flight to Dolpo, Jhupal where our staff will be waiting for you. After reaching Jhupal, get transferred to Dunai on a private tourist bus. You will spend your night at a simple lodge here in Dubai, the headquarters of Dolpo District.

Day 4: Trek to Chepka (2,838 m) – 6 hrs

You will start your trek leaving behind Dunai to cross a bridge above the Thulo Bheri River. After that, you will climb a ridge to reach Phoksundo River valley facing majestic views of Kagmara peaks. From here, the trail descends past farm villages making our way ahead we will come to a stream at Dhera. From Dhera, a short climb takes us to Raha Gaon village. Then we will walk downhill into the forested area to reach our overnight camp at a small farm village, Chepka.

Day 5: Trek to Samuda Village (2,960m) from Chepka – 6hrs

After enjoying your morning breakfast, you will start your trek with a short climb. You will continue your climb on leaving the forest area and downhill walk towards our final destination crossing the small bridge at Ryajik village. Moreover, we will finally reach our destination, Samuda village after a few hours of walking. Also, the village of Samuda is the closest village to the entrance of Phoksundo National Park.

Day 6: Trek from Samuda Village to Phoksundo Lake (3,630 m) – 6hrs

Today’strek leads you to your first highlight of the trek heading toward Phoksundo Lake. You will trek through Pungmo Khola Valley, with a descent to reach the upper side of Phoksundo Khola. Continuing your walk, you will reach Ringmo, an interesting small village of Tibetan origin, from where the walk to Phoksundo Lake is shorter. For a few moments, you will reach your today’s final destination, Phoksundo Lake.

Day 7: Leisure day

It’s a leisure day so rest and enjoy the beautiful landscapes with the mountains of Kagmara. You can also visit the gorgeous Ringmo village located by the lakeside.

Day 8: Trek to Phoksundo Khola (3,750 m) – 5 hrs.

Continuing the trek on the Upper Dolpo trail, you will traverse a rough path that winds along the rocky cliff overlooking a river below. As we move forward, you will pass through a tranquil lake and fields of grazing yaks and other livestock before reaching the destination, i.e., Phoksundo Khola.

Day 9: Trek to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4,717 m) from Phoksundo Khola – 4hrs

The Upper Dolpo trek continues in the morning with a hike along the Phoksundo Khola and uphill towards the north. From the top of the ridge, you will be fascinated with breathtaking views of lush, green valleys, with Kang La Pass visible from far, marking the route towards Shey Gompa. Today’s trekking stops after reaching your night’s stay at Phoksundo Bhanjyang. 

Day 10: Cross Kang -La (5,350 m) and trek to Shey Gompa (4,160 m) – 6hrs

As the morning begins, you will embark on a challenging ascent to the highest point of the Upper Dolpo adventure; Kang La Pass. Climbing up a steep and rocky path from Phoksundo Bhanjyang, you will reach an altitude of over 5,350m. From here the views of different snow-capped mountains including Mount Dhaulagiri from the distance are breathtaking. 

After reaching the top of Kang La Pass, descend towards the bottom of a hill and continue on a remote trail. On the way, you pass through Buddhist prayer monuments adorned with chorten, Mani, etc. From here, a short walk leads to our destination, Shey Gompa; a beautiful nestled beneath the revered Crystal Mountain.

Day 11: Leisure day at Shey Gompa 

Today you can rest at Shey Gompa, and enjoy the serene environment. Or you can also visit the Shey Monastery renowned as Crustal Monastery. Shey Gompa is a renowned place which holds cultural importance and is also described in the famous novel, Snow Leopard by Peter Matthiessen. Enjoy your time as you, please.

Day 12: Trek from Shey Gompa to Namgung (4,608 m) 

Continuing the journey to a walled canyon, you will reach high at Sela, i.e., Gela-la at 5,094m high. It offers breathtaking views of Mount Dhaulagiri range peaks. After a few moments of walking from here, you will reach Namgung Gaon where you will spend your night.

Day 13: Trek to Saldang (3,770 m) from Namgung – 5 hours.

Following a wonderful experience at Shey Gompa, you will continue on a dusty trail through the windswept terrain with a steep climb ahead towards the village of Saldang. This charming village situated on the elevated side of a massive plateau resembles the landscapes of southern Tibet.

Day 14: Trek from Saldang to Cha-Gaon (4,910 m) – 5 hrs.

As the morning dawns, you will follow the meandering Nang Chu River, encountering a beautiful hill as they pass by the quaint settlements of Sugu-Gaon and Dechen Lapran, a community of cattle herders. The journey leads you to your final destination, Cha-Goan village with old Rapa Gompa of pre-Buddhists and ancient Bon- Pa culture.

Day 15: Trek to Dachu Khola Camp (4,700 m) from Cha-Gaon – 6hrs

As the sun rises, you will head towards the south direction, following the trail towards the Tarap Valley. And, you will pass through the charming villages of Dho Tarap and Tokyu. Then, continue your journey toward the Dachau Khola, where you have to cross the farm fields to reach the Yak Herder areas. Today, you will spend your night here at a local guesthouse.

Day 16: Cross Jayanta-La at (5,220 m) and walk to Phedi (4,900 m) – 6 hrs

After spending the night at this delightful campsite, you will start your trek in the morning following a river. Along the way, you will encounter the majestic sight of yaks and mules laden with caravans heading towards Tibet. The ancient Trans-Himalayan Salt and Caravan Trade Route between Nepal’s Far West and Tibet has facilitated trade between the two nations for hundreds of years. Moreover, you will head towards the base of Jayanta La Pass, where they will begin a steep climb to reach the summit. 

After reaching the top, you will fall in love with the breathtaking views of the mountain range. From there, the trail will descend to the base of the pass, leading towards the Tokyu village.

Day 17: Trek to Tokyu Gaon (4,209 m) – 6hrs

Following a strenuous and challenging climb, today you get to enjoy a much easier walk towards the Tokyu Gaon. This impressive village is located within the inner Dolpo region, surrounded by more than ten other charming villages with beautifully maintained farm fields and many ancient monasteries.

Day 18: Trek to Dho Tarap (3, 944 m) – 5hrs

The trek continues downhill from Tokyu Gaon towards Tarap Chu, where you can go for a leisurely walk through a lush green valley. Along the way to Tokyu village, you pass through several shepherds and cattle herders, where yaks and sheep graze peacefully. The trails lead to Dho Tarap, where you will spend your night at the campsite.

Day 19: Trek to Ghyamgar (3,759 m) – 7hrs

Today your trek starts descending towards the vast and extended Tarap valley, which covers about 20 km from Trapa Chu River to Thuli Bheri River near Tarakot village. During the walk, you will come across Langa village with its cascading waterfalls. And, then you will continue your journey towards Sisaul and after a few minutes, you will reach your destination, Ghyamgar.

Day 20: Trek to Tarap Khola (3,652 m) – 6hrs

Starting from the pleasant campsite, the morning trek takes you through the beautiful Tarap valley before entering a narrow gorge. Then, the trails lead you to Tol-Tol, a place with a large cave, continuing your journey to reach the confluence of the Tarap Chu River and Lang Khola. You will spend your night at a campsite located near the river.

Day 21: Trek to Tarakot (2,540 m) – 6hrs

Starting the morning with a walk through a dense forest area, following the river towards Tarakot village. This village has a rich history as a fort village that guarded the old Trans-Himalaya Salt Trade Route. During your visit to Tarakot village, you can explore the renowned Sandul Gompa located at the junction of Barbung Khola and Tarap Chu Rivers. You will set up a camp near the river and spend your night.

Day 22: Trek to Dunai and drive to Jhupal 

On the final day of your trek, you will make your way to Dunai followed by a short drive to Jhupal. Your morning walk takes you on a broad trail with a brief ascent and descent into the Thuli River valley. As you arrive at Dunai, you will take a bus ride to Jhupal and spend the night at a guesthouse upon arrival.

Day 23: Departure

Following an exciting adventure in Upper Dolpo, the trek ends with a short walk to the Jhupal airstrip. From there, get transferred to the airport for a flight to Nepalgunj. After your arrival in Nepalgunj, refresh yourself in the hotel rooms and rest for a while before catching a flight to Kathmandu. After you arrive at Kathmandu airport, transfer to your respective hotel. Our service ends here. Thank you for choosing Quest Himalayan Trek for your trip to Nepal. We hope you had a wonderful adventure here in Nepal.

• Airport transfers: Pickup and drop upon arrival and departure
• Accommodation: Kathmandu with breakfast
• Meals:  Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek
• Accommodation in a teahouse or lodges during the trek
• Transportation in a private vehicle and domestic flight
• English-speaking experienced guide
• 1 porter for 2 trekkers
• Trekking tools, sleeping bags, down jackets, etc.
• Necessary documents and necessary trek permits
• All Government taxes and service charges
• Farewell Dinner

• International flights
• Nepal entry visa fee
• 1 porter: 2 trekkers
• Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner
• Travel/Medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost
• Tips for guides, drivers, and porters
• Personal expenses like alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, telephone calls, laundry, internet facility, mineral water, etc.

Trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal needs proper planning and preparation, including packing the right equipment and clothing. Trekking in Nepal’s Himalayas is a wonderful experience, but you must be prepared ahead for what you are going to experience. So the packing list must be prepared carefully. You probably don’t know what to pack and what to don’t, right? Don’t worry we got you. Here in Quest Himalayan Trek and Expedition, we have mentioned the trekking packing list for all the mountain trekking and mountain climbing activities in Nepal. Your trip to Nepal will surely be memorable, and adventurous if you carry all this mentioned equipment with you for the upcoming trekking days. Be sure to check out the equipment list and manage it before you go on your trek to make sure you have everything you need. Also, there might be differences in the items from one area to another, and from season to season.

Therefore, before you book your Nepal trekking or peak climbing, please read this packing list carefully and arrange it with you. The following are the list of equipments that we suggest to you for trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal.

Trekking Boots: You must pack sturdy and comfortable hiking waterproof boots that provide support and protection to your feet and ankles. Also, be sure that you tie and untie the laces with ease and check that the boot has deep-cut traction on the sole.

Backpack: Choose a backpack with a good quality having of capacity 40-60litres to carry all your gear and personal items. Duffle bag or kit bag is necessary to carry gear while trekking.

Sleeping Bags: It is best to carry your own sleeping bags. For trekking in high-altitudes in Nepal, we advise you to carry a warm and lightweight sleeping bag rated to at least -25C.

Clothing: You will need a variety of clothing depending on the season of your trekking. But for any season trekking, always carry quick-drying, moisture-wicking clothes. Also not to forget the layers are very important for adjusting to changing temperatures during trekking days. So, choose the best brands for a base layer, insulation layer, outer layer, trekking trousers, shirts, waterproof jackets, etc.

Trekking Poles: The use of poles during trekking days is very essential as they help to reduce the impact and stress on your joints and make your trekking days easier, especially on steep and rugged terrain.

First Aid Kit: Don’t forget to carry a first aid kit with essentials such as antiseptic, bandages, pain relievers, blister treatments, etc.

Water Filtration System: Rather than buying bottled water in every lodge, or tea house, we suggest you carry a water bottle with a built-in filter or water purification tablets for safe drinking water.

Footwear for Trekkers:

• Trainer or casual shoes, for trekking and/or travelling.
• Warm thermal socks for colder areas.
• Gaiters, in case of rain or snow
• Pair sandals/trekking shoe
• Microspikes
• Socks

Body:

• Choose a variety of T-shirts and long sleeves, ideally not made of cotton.
• Warmer climates need thermal clothing.
• Warm clothing, perhaps fleeces, for colder climates.
• A wool sweater or a fleece jacket.
• Higher altitude outer shell clothing that is wind and waterproof.
• Windproof and watertight down jacket for chilly mornings and evenings

Head/Hands:

• Hat made of wool, fleece, or a balaclava.
• For sun protection while day hiking, use a hat or cap.
• Goggles or sunglasses
• Cozy gloves

Leg Wear:

• Loose-fitting, everyday pants for trekking.
• Leggings for chilly climates.
• Daytime wearable half-pants
• Women’s long skirts as an alternative to pants.
• Waterproof pants
• Heavy-duty clothing for high altitudes (not for the short trek)
• Trousers

Other necessary items:

• Strong rucksack or large hold all to be carried by porters.
• Day rucksack to be carried personally.
• Plastic bags or stuff sacks to store/separate trekking gear inside your main bag.
• Water bottle.
• Personal first aid kit to include essential items.
• Sleeping bag( 4 seasons).
• Torch, ideally headlight.
• Digital Camera and a spare battery and battery charger! – For those not to be forgotten shots of the Himalayas.
• Toiletries
• Hand Sanitizer
• Towel
• Portable Charger
• Large handkerchief/bandana for neck
• Passport/Money
• Water Purification Tablets
• Hand Sanitizer

Optional Items:

• Binoculars
• Books (In your free time you can read books, you love reading)
• Altimeter
• Compass
• Headlamp: A good quality headlamp with extra batteries is essential for navigating trails in the dark
• Playing cards/background/chess set

Note: You can also buy the sleeping bag or rent the sleeping bags in Kathmandu for Nepal Trekking to higher altitudes including the Everest base camp trek, Annapurna Circuit, Makalu base camp trek, and many other treks over 5600m. Pack lightly and bring only the essentials. Furthermore, for any queries related to trek, packing list, bookings, etc, Quest Himalayan Trek and Expedition is always here for you.