Introduction

Upper Dolpo, a mysterious land behind the rocky Himalaya. Dhaulagiri measuring 8172 m height and is the 7th highest peak in the world. Upper Dolpo Circuit Trekking  is presumed as a hidden trekking destination of Nepal as there are lots of things to be explored in the category of its natural beauty, people, lifestyle, culture, and its tranquility. The traditions and way of life have intact in the Dolpo region for decades. The culture, Buddhist monasteries, lifestyle of people, traditions has been untouched by modernism still. Thus, it appeals to be a famous attraction point.

Dolpo lies within the remote northwest of Nepal, between the Tibetan Plateau amidst the Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The Upper Dolpo trek as the name suggests, the upper part of the Dolpo region, which is even more remote and infrequently visited. Only open to visitors from the 1980s, Upper Dolpo remains a restricted area and requires a special permit. Phoksundo Lake; Shey Gompa; Buddhist monasteries; Bon Po practitioners; views of Dhaulagiri; Crystal Mountain (a mountain whose cliffs are laced with quartz and marine fossils); unique Tibetan cultures; the magnificent and rare ounce – all of these majestic and beautiful location may sound familiar. And of course, they are, as stated in Peter Matthiessen’s book “The Snow Leopard” and Eric Valli’s film of Dolpo life, ‘Himalaya’.

While Dolpo is generally a dry, bare place. It's laced with fast flowing rivers, roaring waterfalls, deep river gorges, lush meadows, and valleys of tilled fields. Remote villages with interesting cultures, including the Bon Po religion, and in fact the mesmerizing icy waters of Phoksundo Lake are other attractions during this region. As a part of Dolpo falls within the Shey Phoksundo park, the wildlife, rare Himalayan blue sheep, goral, thar, Himalayan black bear, etc. is protected.

 

Furthermore:

This 27-day trek isn't for the timid trekkers as trails are difficult, high, steep, shaky, and sometimes barely there. Long walking days at high altitude are the standard with several high passes to cross. Except for those with the sheer willpower, stamina and fitness level this trek is certainly a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Trip Highlights:

  • Upper Dolpo Circuit Trekking  is a hidden trekking destination of Nepal.
  • Mysterious land beyond the gigantic Himalaya, Dhaulagiri measuring 8172 m, a 7th highest peak in the world.
  • Located inside largest National park of Nepal, Shey Phoksundo with the pristine Lake Shey Phoksundo.
  • Leaving the massive sparkling Himalayas behind the back is obviously a worth of 27 days.
  • Famous destination as rain shadow, unique vegetation, culture and Buddhist monasteries.

Book Now

Select a package
Trip Code

AMT - TREK - 506
Best Season

Spring & Fall
Trip Grade

Fairly Strenuous
Max Altitude

High Camp (4,900m/16,072ft)
Accomodation

eahouses/Lodges
Transportation

Flight/Jeep or Bus
Meals

BB/Full Board
Group Size

Any

Quick Enquiry

Talk with Expert 9862790129/ 9851039058

Upper Dolpo Circuit Map

Trip Itinerary

DAY

Inclusion:

Our travel planner can customize the itinerary outline as per your duration of stay, purpose of holiday and your preference. Cost of the package also depends upon level of service (deluxe, standard & budget) and as per the group size. You can easily CONTACT US at any time for any queries.

Exclusion:

  • International Airfare.
  • Personal Travel Insurance (essential for high altitude trekking).
  • Personal expenses (bar, laundry, personal shopping, internet usages during the trek, hot shower during the trek, battery charge during the trek etc.).
  • Alcoholic beverage.
  • TIPS for Staff.

Equipment Checklist

Essential Equipment list for Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek

“Embarking on the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek is a thrilling adventure that requires meticulous preparation. Ensuring you have the right gear can make the difference between a comfortable journey and a challenging one. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential equipment needed for the trek, from clothing layers to personal items. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, our comprehensive packing list will help you get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.”

1. Clothing

Base Layers: Thermal tops and bottoms for warmth.

Mid Layers: Fleece jacket for insulation.

Outer Layer: Insulated down jacket (recommended for high altitudes).

Rainproof/Windproof Jacket and Pants: Essential for unpredictable weather.

Trekking Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants for daytime trekking.

Warm Hat and Sun Hat: A warm beanie for cold weather, and a wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection.

Gloves: Waterproof insulated gloves and lightweight inner gloves.

Socks: Wool socks for cold weather and moisture-wicking socks for trekking.

Gaiters: To keep mud, snow, and debris out of your boots.

2. Footwear

Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support.

Camp Shoes/Sandals: For comfort when relaxing in the tea houses or lodges.

3. Sleeping Gear

Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C to -20°C to withstand cold nights in higher altitudes.

Sleeping Bag Liner: Adds warmth and keeps your sleeping bag clean.

4. Backpack and Accessories

Daypack (25-30 liters): For carrying essentials like water, snacks, and layers.

Duffel Bag: Large, durable bag for porters to carry; waterproof covers are recommended.

Rain Cover: For protecting your daypack from rain.

Trekking Poles: Helpful for stability and reducing stress on knees.

5. Hydration and Nutrition

Water Bottles and/or Hydration Bladder: With at least 2-3 liters capacity.

Water Purification Tablets or Filter: To treat water on the trail.

Snacks: High-energy snacks like energy bars, nuts, and chocolates.

6. Personal and Miscellaneous Items

Headlamp with Extra Batteries: Essential for early morning treks or dark trails.

Sunglasses: UV-protective, high-quality sunglasses to protect against the intense high-altitude sun.

Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF for sun protection.

Basic First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, blister treatment, antiseptics, painkillers, altitude sickness medication, and any personal medications.

Toiletries: Eco-friendly soap, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes.

Camera and Extra Batteries: Since charging can be costly and unreliable at high altitudes.

7. Documents and Money

Passport and Permits: Passport, visa,TIMS card, and entry permit.

Cash: ATMs are not reliable in the mountains, so bring enough Nepali cash for personal expenses.

Frequently asked question (FAQ'S)

Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek is considered as fairly-strenuous trek on remote area of Nepal. There are numerous challenges like the rugged terrain, steep slopes, trekking route through stone stairs and continuous walk of 5 to 6 hours per day. That being said, Makalu Base Camp Trek can be done by travelers who have the right attitude and are physically fit.

The best season for Trekking Upper Dolpo Circuit is during Spring (March, April and May) and Fall (October and November). During these seasons the weather will be clear, you will get long sunlight hours, fewer bugs, flowers will bloom on the way, the charm of the atmosphere can be felt by the heart, magnificent views of the Himalayas can be seen and you can escape the crowd and enjoy the pleasure of trekking.

The maximum height we will ascend during this trek is up to High Camp (4,900m/16,072ft).

Yes!! The Internet is accessible during Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek. You can access the 3G network on mobile phones. The mobile internet is fast enough to browse and even make video calls. You will get continuous signal during the whole trek but there will be certain dark spots along the trek where connection may drop. There are limited WiFi hotspots during the trek which will charge for usage only some will let you use it for free. So, for internet access we recommend you to buy a SIM and use 3G.

The permits required for Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek are:

  • Lower Dolpo Permit.
  • Upper Dolpo Permit and
  • Shey-Phoksundo National Park Entry Fee.

According to the standard itinerary our Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek is of 27 days from your arrival to Kathmandu to farewell at Airport. If you wish to amend the itinerary you have to contact our booking manager; he will prepare the itinerary according to your needs.

Yes!! It is possible to trek Upper Dolpo Circuit. Upper Dolpo trekking requires stamina and good health conditions. If you are planning to trek without any experience then you can contact us prior to 20 days so that we can guide you through some exercises and diets you should consider for preparation.

Yes!! It is recommended to have travel insurance during the trek. It is uncertain that you will not feel sick or get into any accidents during the trek. So, for medical emergencies and as precaution against risks and financial losses that could happen while traveling, insurance is best.

All the equipment/accessories required for trekking will be arranged for you. You will have to pay the amount for equipment. If you personally want to manage any equipment by yourself it’s fine. We have created The Ultimate Trekking Checklist page for your help as It is always better to carry the essential gears and accessories.

Qualified, well experienced, knowledgeable and reliable trekking leaders who have been working in this field professionally for more than a decade will guide you toward the destination and back. You are in safe hands with us, so don’t worry about trekking guides.

Adventure Mountain Trek offers you a lifetime policy through which you can renew your booking amount for another trek although if you want to cancel it then we will refund you as per our trip cancellation terms procedure.

We hire our staff according to their standards. They should have to go through our selection procedure on which we will check their certifications, qualifications and experience. Hence, Our staff are equipped/trained and insured.

Normally, Within 12-24 hours after ascending a certain height(1,500 to 2,500 meter above sea level) altitude sickness symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, sleep problems, loss of energy, and shortness of breath are seen. In case of any altitude sickness symptoms we will apply medication and descend immediately for acclimatization.

Trekking via the local agency is one of the great ideas for trekkers. There are more local trekking organizations in Nepal. The hard part is you need to recognize whether they are authorized businesses and are members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN).You can view their internet site and profiles commonly all legal organizations will upload their profile along with authorities-legal certificates.

Due to the advancement of the trekking industry, we can find enough lodges and tea houses throughout Upper Dolpo Circuit Trekking routes. They offer good food and accommodation. There are different options you can choose according to your needs and budget. Also you should know that at high altitude and remote places the service will be limited.

Yes!! You can charge mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek. At most of the places you will get to charge for free but at some places you have to pay some amount to charge. Remember that It is always better to bring power bank with you which will be helpful.