Best 24-Day Upper Dolpo Camping Trek in Nepal: An Adventure into the Mystical Himalayas

 The Upper Dolpo region, one of the most isolated and untouched areas of Nepal, offers trekkers a unique and extraordinary adventure. This remote region, situated in the northwestern part of Nepal, borders Tibet and is renowned for its rugged landscapes, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and traditional Tibetan culture. The 24-day Upper Dolpo Camping Trek is an immersive journey that takes you through some of the most stunning and uncharted terrains in the Himalayas. This trek is ideal for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, combining natural beauty, cultural richness, and physical challenge.

 

Overview

Duration: 24 days

Maximum Elevation: 5,350 meters (Kang La Pass)

Difficulty Level: Strenuous

Best Seasons: May to September

Accommodation: Camping/Tents

 

Highlights

·         Juphal: Starting point of the trek, a small village with a scenic airstrip.

·         Phoksundo Lake: Nepal’s deepest and most beautiful lake, renowned for its turquoise waters.

·         Shey Gompa: An ancient monastery, also known as the Crystal Monastery, located in a remote valley.

·         Kang La Pass: The highest point of the trek, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

·         Traditional Villages: Explore the remote villages of Ringmo, Saldang, and Dho Tarap, where Tibetan culture is preserved.

·         Wildlife: Encounter rare wildlife such as snow leopards, blue sheep, and Himalayan monals.

·         Diverse Landscapes: From deep gorges and arid deserts to lush valleys and snow-capped peaks.

 

Trekking Route

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Spend the day exploring the vibrant capital of Nepal, visiting sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Durbar Square.

 

Day 2: Flight to Nepalgunj

Take a short flight to Nepalgunj, a bustling town in the Terai region of Nepal. Overnight stay in Nepalgunj.

 

Day 3: Flight to Juphal and Trek to Dunai (2,140m)

Fly to Juphal, the starting point of the trek. From Juphal, trek to Dunai, the administrative center of the Dolpo district. The trail follows the Thuli Bheri River and passes through small villages and terraced fields.

 

Day 4: Dunai to Ankhe (2,660m)

Trek to Ankhe, entering the Shey Phoksundo National Park. The trail winds through forests of pine, fir, and juniper, with occasional views of the Bheri River.

 

Day 5: Ankhe to Sulighat (3,200m)

Continue trekking to Sulighat, following a trail that climbs and descends through dense forests and crosses several rivers.

 

Day 6: Sulighat to Phoksundo Lake (3,611m)

Trek to Phoksundo Lake, one of the highlights of the journey. The trail ascends to a ridge that offers stunning views of the turquoise lake and the surrounding mountains. Descend to the village of Ringmo, located on the shores of the lake.

 

Day 7: Acclimatization Day at Phoksundo Lake

Spend a day acclimatizing at Phoksundo Lake. Explore the village of Ringmo, visit the Tshowa Gompa, a 900-year-old Bon monastery, and enjoy the serene beauty of the lake.

 

Day 8: Phoksundo Lake to Phoksundo Khola (3,507m)

Trek along the western bank of Phoksundo Lake to Phoksundo Khola. The trail is narrow and exposed in some places, offering spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding cliffs.

 

Day 9: Phoksundo Khola to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4,400m)

Continue trekking to Phoksundo Bhanjyang, the base of the Kang La Pass. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, passing through remote valleys and rugged terrain.

 

Day 10: Phoksundo Bhanjyang to Shey Gompa (4,126m) via Kang La Pass (5,350m)

One of the most challenging days of the trek, crossing the Kang La Pass. The climb is steep and demanding, but the views from the top are incredibly rewarding. Descend to Shey Gompa, an ancient monastery located in a picturesque valley.

 

Day 11: Exploration Day at Shey Gompa

Spend a day exploring Shey Gompa and its surroundings. Visit the monastery, known as the Crystal Monastery, and learn about the region's unique Tibetan Buddhist culture.

 

Day 12: Shey Gompa to Namgung (4,360m)

Trek to Namgung, passing through high-altitude landscapes and crossing the Shey La Pass. The trail offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

 

Day 13: Namgung to Saldang (3,903m)

Descend to the village of Saldang, one of the largest villages in the region. Saldang is located on a high plateau and is known for its traditional Tibetan culture and beautiful landscapes.

 

Day 14: Saldang to Yangze Gompa (4,420m)

Trek to Yangze Gompa, passing through remote villages and arid landscapes. The trail follows the Nagon Khola and offers views of ancient monasteries and chortens.

 

Day 15: Yangze Gompa to Sibu (4,560m)

Continue trekking to Sibu, a small settlement located in a remote valley. The trail involves several river crossings and passes through high-altitude terrain.

 

Day 16: Sibu to Jeng La Phedi (4,900m)

Trek to Jeng La Phedi, the base of the Jeng La Pass. The trail ascends gradually, offering views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

 

Day 17: Jeng La Phedi to Tokyu Gaon (4,209m) via Jeng La Pass (5,090m)

Cross the Jeng La Pass, one of the highest points of the trek. The climb is steep and challenging, but the views from the top are breathtaking. Descend to Tokyu Gaon, a traditional Tibetan village.

 

Day 18: Tokyu Gaon to Dho Tarap (4,040m)

Trek to Dho Tarap, one of the largest villages in the Dolpo region. The trail follows the Tarap Chu River and passes through beautiful landscapes and traditional villages.

 

Day 19: Exploration Day in Dho Tarap

Spend a day exploring Dho Tarap and its surroundings. Visit the local monasteries, interact with the villagers, and learn about the region's unique culture and traditions.

 

Day 20: Dho Tarap to Tarap Khola (3,800m)

Continue trekking along the Tarap Chu River to Tarap Khola. The trail passes through deep gorges and remote valleys, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

 

Day 21: Tarap Khola to Khanigaon (3,150m)

Trek to Khanigaon, passing through lush forests and terraced fields. The trail involves several river crossings and offers views of traditional villages and farmlands.

 

Day 22: Khanigaon to Tarakot (2,537m)

Descend to Tarakot, a small village located on the banks of the Bheri River. The trail follows the river and passes through beautiful landscapes and traditional villages.

 

Day 23: Tarakot to Dunai (2,140m)

Trek back to Dunai, retracing your steps along the Bheri River. Enjoy the changing landscapes and the peaceful environment.

 

Day 24: Dunai to Juphal and Flight to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj

Trek to Juphal and take a flight to Nepalgunj. From Nepalgunj, fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Celebrate the successful completion of the trek and spend your last evening in Kathmandu.

 

Preparation and Tips

·         Physical Fitness: The trek is strenuous and requires a high level of physical fitness. Regular cardiovascular and strength training exercises are essential in the months leading up to the trek.

·         Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. Spend extra days at higher altitudes to allow your body to adjust.

·         Gear and Equipment: Invest in high-quality trekking gear, including sturdy boots, thermal clothing, and a reliable sleeping bag. A good backpack and trekking poles are also essential.

·         Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Carry snacks like energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits to keep your energy levels up.

·         Trekking Permits: Ensure you have all the necessary permits, including the Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP).

·         Camping Equipment: As the trek involves camping, ensure you have all the necessary camping equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, and cooking gear.

·         Cultural Sensitivity: Respect the local culture and traditions. Dress modestly and seek permission before taking photographs of people or religious sites.

 

Challenges and Rewards

The Upper Dolpo Camping Trek is not for the faint-hearted. The high altitude, unpredictable weather, and challenging terrain make it a demanding trek. However, the rewards are immense. The sense of accomplishment after crossing high mountain passes, the serenity of Phoksundo Lake, the ancient monasteries, and the warmth of the local people make this trek a truly unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

The 24-day Upper Dolpo Camping Trek is an adventure of a lifetime. It takes you through some of the most remote and untouched regions of Nepal, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and physical challenge. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, this trek provides an unparalleled journey into the mystical Himalayas. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a cultural enthusiast, the Upper Dolpo Camping Trek offers something for everyone, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.