Overview

Located between Dhaulagiri ranges and Tibetan Plataeau, Dolpo is a mesmerizing and naturally mystic place. Culturally Tibetan and situated in high elevation, Dolpo region is the upper part in the biggest district (valley) of Nepal, Dolpa. Some part of the region falls in the Shey Phoksundo national park. Trekking in Dolpa, not just Dolpo region was restricted for foreigners till 1989, in 1989 it was opened for organized trekking. And even till today upper Dolpo is one of the less done treks but more than worth it. The villages are interesting, so are the people, there are some high Himalayan passes, the deepest lake in Nepal; Shey Phokdsundo, incredible landscapes, mountain views and so much more. This upper dolp trek gives you one of you life’s most treasurable experiences. Upper Dolpo is a secret and sacred region, only connected to the outside world by Juphal airport, you get see so a part of Himalaya which is untouched and fascinating.

Main attractions: As this trek as a whole is an out of ordinary trek, there is nothing to be disappointed of, of course if you are looking for leisure than it can’t be helped. Shey Phoksundo Lake is 145m deep at 3,612 m of elevation and is one of the main attractions of this trek, alpine fresh water surrounded by mountains, stupas and Gompas, it is no ordinary lake. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Churen (7,371m), Nilgiris(7,061m).,Kanjiroba (6,883m), Machhapuchre ( 6,993m) are some one the mountains that will present themselves in all their glory in several viewpoints along the trek. The region in inhabited by Tibetan Buddhists, Buddhism and Bon are religions of the region, so you will also witness quite a bit of cultural significance. Flora and fauna of the high Tibetan plateau are in abundance here. It is one of the remotest places in Nepal that means it is a full camping trek with adventure. We start with a flight to Jhupal, and that itself is a spectacle.

Best season: Like most Himalayan treks, spring which falls from March to May and September to October in autumn or fall are the best seasons for the trek. If you are botany enthusiast then you can do this trek in Monsoon which falls from June to August, Himalayan treks are not advised during monsoon but as Upper Dolpo falls in the Himalayan rain shadow under Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, there will hardly be too much rain.
Trip Highlights:
Duration: 28 days
Starting point: flight to Juphal
Maximum elevation: 5,360m/17581 ft
Accommodation: Camping during the trek, in hotels in Kathmandu
Difficulty level: above moderate