Upper Dolpo Trek is one of the most remote & challenging treks in the western region of Nepal. With almost non-existent tourism, it is necessary to camp & carry your own food supplies. During the trek, it offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including the Dhaulagiri & Annapurna ranges.
The deep valleys, high altitude passes, 800-year-old Shey Monastery, remote villages, and a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the local people are the most rewarding factors of the Dolpo trek.
Dolpo Trek Highlights:
- Trek to the remote & unspoiled trek of Nepal known as off-the-beaten-track to the highest point-Jyanta la (5,220m).
- An adventurous camping trek with an amazing view of Phoksundo Lake Kanjirowa Himal, crystal mountain and many more.
- Explore the beautiful flora & fauna of the Upper Dolpo region including some endangered animals like snow leopard, blue deer, etc.
- Visit Shey Gompa one of the oldest monastery
Location and Geography:
- Dolpo is a remote and isolated region located in the northwestern part of Nepal, within the Dolpa District of Karnali Province. It is nestled in the Himalayas, bordered by Tibet to the north. The region lies at altitudes ranging from 2,500 meters (8,200 ft) to over 7,000 meters (23,000 ft).
- Shey Phoksundo National Park occupies a significant portion of Dolpo, known for its dramatic landscapes, including deep valleys, high plateaus, and the pristine Phoksundo Lake.
Cultural Heritage:
- Dolpo is a culturally rich area, home to people of Tibetan origin. The region has preserved ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions, and Bon religion (an indigenous Tibetan religion) is also practiced.
- The people of Dolpo follow a traditional way of life, relying on agriculture, herding yaks and sheep, and trading with Tibet.
- The monasteries in Dolpo, such as the Shey Gompa and Yangtsher Gompa, are vital spiritual centers.
Key Trekking Routes:
- Dolpo is famous for its trekking routes, which offer stunning mountain views and cultural experiences. The Upper Dolpo Trek and the Lower Dolpo Trek are the most prominent trekking routes, both of which are challenging and require special permits.
- The Great Himalayan Trail passes through Dolpo, attracting experienced trekkers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Flora and Fauna:
- Dolpo is part of the Trans-Himalayan ecosystem, with unique flora and fauna. The region is home to rare species such as the snow leopard, blue sheep, Himalayan griffon, and the Tibetan wolf.
- The lower altitudes feature forests of pine, spruce, and birch, while higher elevations are marked by alpine meadows and barren rocky landscapes.
Economy and Access:
- The economy of Dolpo is primarily based on agriculture, pastoralism, and trade. Due to its remoteness, there are limited economic opportunities, and the region remains underdeveloped.
- Dolpo is accessible by air through Juphal Airport, followed by several days of trekking. There are no road connections to the region, making transportation difficult and adding to its isolation.
Challenges:
- The remoteness of Dolpo results in limited access to healthcare, education, and other basic services. The harsh climate and high altitude also make life difficult for the local population.
- Tourism provides a source of income but is limited due to the region’s challenging terrain and the need for special permits.
Unique Aspects:
- Dolpo gained international attention through the book “The Snow Leopard” by Peter Matthiessen and the film “Himalaya” (also known as “Caravan”), which was nominated for an Academy Award.
- The region’s isolation has helped preserve its unique culture and way of life, making it a rare place where visitors can experience a blend of natural beauty and ancient traditions.
Dolpo remains one of Nepal’s most mysterious and less-explored regions, offering a unique and spiritual experience for those who venture into its rugged landscapes.
Essential Gears & Equipment Checklist for EBC Trek
Packing the right gear & equipment can save you from any unnecessary expenses. To make it easy for you, here is the checklist of the packing list for the Everest Base Camp Trek.
Clothing gear for the trek
- Down jackets (1)
- Trekking boots (high ankle recommended, 1 pair)
- Long sleeve T-shirts (thin and thick, 1 each)
- Gortex-waterproof (1)
- windproof jackets (1)
- Hiking socks (2-3 Pairs)
- Beanie (1)
- UV rays protected sunglasses (1)
- Nylon windproof pants Nylon (2 pairs)
- Water bottles (1)
- Gloves (1 pair)
- Hard-shell outer gloves (1 pair)
- Neck gaiter (1)
- Undergarments (as needed)
- Pajamas or sleeping clothes (optional)
Essential gears for the trek
- Duffle bag (It is provided by us without extra charges if you trek with us)
- Minimum 40L daypack for carrying essential items during the trek
- Water bottles or Camelbak (Hydration bladder)
- Sleeping bags (1)
- Trekking poles (1 pair)
- Quick dry trekking towels (2)
hings to Know Before Coming to Nepal
On Arrival Visa
The ‘On Arrival’ visa procedure in Nepal is quick and straightforward. You can obtain a tourist visa at the Tribhuvan International Airport under the Department of Immigration. Expect some queues during peak tourist season. Alternatively, you can get your visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions abroad before your arrival to skip these queues.
Here’s a concise guide for the On Arrival Visa process for Nepal:
Arrival Card and Online Form:
Fill in the ‘Arrival Card’ and complete the online ‘Tourist Visa’ form either before your arrival on the official Department of Immigration website or at the airport using Kiosk machines. Print the submission receipt with the barcode, valid for fifteen days.
Payment at the Bank:
Make the required visa payment at the bank based on your visa duration (15/30/90 days). Obtain the payment receipt.
Immigration Desk:
Proceed to the Immigration Desk with your online form, payment receipts, and passport. Submit the documents to the immigration officer for visa processing. Upon satisfaction, the officer will issue the visa to you.
On Arrival Visa Fees:
– 15 Days – $30 USD
– 30 Days – $50 USD
– 90 Days – $125 USD
- International & domestic airport transfers
- 4 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis on BB (Bed and Breakfast) plan.
- 1 nights hotel accommodation in Nepalgunj on twin sharing basis on BLD (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) plan.
- Kathmandu sightseeing by professional english speaking tour guide.
- Kathmandu - Nepalgunj - Kathmandu Flight Cost.
- Nepalgunj - Juphal - Nepalgunj Flight cost.
- 3 meals a day during the trekking in tent Camp (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) as mention in itinerary.
- Accommodation while trekking in twin sharing basis in Tent Camp.
- Upper Dolpo restricated area permit.
- Lower Dolpo Restricated area permit.
- Professional government lisence holder English speaking trekking guide.
- The required number of porters to carry the luggage, foods and tent during the trek.
- Sleeping bag and duffel bag during the trek. (Refundable after finish trekking)
- A comprehensive medical kit.
- All government and local taxes.
- International air fare to/ from Nepal.
- Entry Visa fees - at present $25 for 15 day, US$ 40 for 30 day, and US$ 100 for three month visa on entry into Nepal.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- Insurance which covers, medical, emergency evacuation, lost, etc.
- Beverages, alcoholic drinks, mineral water, boiled water during the trekking.
- All food and beverages other than on the itinerary.
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
- Personal gear and expenses.
- Tips and gratitude provided to staff.
