Trip Facts
Upper Dolpo region
25 days
English, Hindi, Japanese, Urdu
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel.
Day 02: Guided tour around world’s Heritage sites of Kathmandu.
Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalganj.
Day 04: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal and trek to Dunai.
Day 05: Trek from Dunai to Chhepka.
Day 06: Trek from Chhepka to Rechi.
Day 07: Trek from Rechi to Ringmo Village.
Day 08: Rest and acclimatization at Ringmo. Free exploration.
Day 09: Trek from Ringmo to Phoksundo Khola.
Day 10: Trek from Phoksundo Khola to Campsite.
Day 11: Trek from Campsite to High Camp (4,900m/16,072ft).
Day 12: Trek from High Camp to Shey Gompa via the crossing of Nangda La Pass.
Day 13: Full-day excursion around Shey Gompa.
Day 14: Trek from Shey Gompa to Namgung.
Day 15: Trek from Namgung to Saldang.
Day 16: Trek from Saldang to Khomas Gaon.
Day 17: Trek from Khomas Gaon to Mendo.
Day 18: Trek from Mendo to Rapka khola.
Day 19: Trek from Rapka Khola to Chharkabhot.
Day 20: Trek from Chharkabhot to Norbulung.
Day 21: Trek from Norblung to Sangda Phedi via the crossing of Niwal Pass.
Day 22: Trek from Sangda Phedi to Sangda.
Day 23: Trek from Sangda to Dhagarjun.
Day 24: Trek from Dhagarjun to Jomson.
Day 25: Fly to Pokhara. Sightseeing, boating or free for any other personal activities.
Day 26: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu.
Day 27: Final departure. Drop to airport as per flight schedule.
Any
- A true expedition to one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally preserved regions.
- Spectacular vistas of the Dhaulagiri range and exploration within Shey Phoksundo National Park.
- Visit the iconic Phoksundo Lake and ancient monastic sites like Shey Gompa.
- Encounter unique Tibetan Buddhist and Bon Po cultures in timeless villages.
- Trek through a dramatic rain-shadow landscape with rare flora and fauna.
Pick up from airport
Drop back at the airport
- Required numbers of time Airport pick up and drop off as per your flight schedule (international and domestic). All required transfers in Kathmandu too.
- 3 Night’s accommodation in touristic town of Kathmandu in BB Plan (one can choose budget, standard and deluxe).
- Kathmandu – Nepaljung and Nepaljung – Juphal in Flight.
- Jomsom – Pokhara in Flight and back to Kathmandu by flight/drive.
- Standard tea house (lodge) accommodation during the entire trekking as per mentioned in itinerary.
- Three meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the entire trek as per mentioned in itinerary.
- A duffel bag, Trekking Map .
- Trekking pole, Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket, Nepali SIM card (Rental basis, if needed).
- TIMS (Trekker’s Information Manual System) permit.
- Required Permits.
- An experienced government certified local Trekking Guide.
- Required numbers of highly experienced trekking porters (2:1 ratio).
- Staff’s foods, salary, insurance, accommodation, meals, transportation etc.
- General first Aid Kit.
- A certificate of appreciation (experience certificate) after completing the Trek.
- Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program.
- All government taxes and applicable paperwork.
- 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.
Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek Introduction
Upper Dolpo is a secluded realm lying in the rain shadow of the towering Dhaulagiri massif, the world’s seventh-highest peak. The Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek is considered one of Nepal’s last hidden frontiers, offering an unparalleled journey into a landscape and culture preserved in time. For decades, the traditions, ancient monasteries, and distinct way of life here have remained largely untouched by the modern world, creating a profound sense of discovery.
This remote territory in northwestern Nepal, bordering the Tibetan Plateau, was only opened to limited trekkers in the late 20th century and still requires a special restricted-area permit. The upper sector is particularly isolated, visited by only a handful of expeditions each season. Its legendary status was cemented by works like Peter Matthiessen’s The Snow Leopard and Eric Valli’s film Himalaya, which brought its stark beauty to the world.
The trek reveals a surprising diversity: arid, high-altitude deserts are carved by deep river gorges and punctuated by oasis-like valleys with tilled fields. Key highlights include the breathtaking turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake, ancient Shey Gompa, the sacred Crystal Mountain, and communities practicing both Buddhism and the older Bon Po religion. As part of the vast Shey Phoksundo National Park, the region is also a sanctuary for wildlife like the blue sheep and the elusive snow leopard.
Important Note: This 27-day expedition is demanding and suitable only for experienced, well-equipped trekkers. It involves long days at high altitude, traversing steep, rugged trails and crossing several challenging mountain passes. It is a true wilderness adventure that rewards resilience with an experience unlike any other.
Detail Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel.
Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
Distance: Approx. 7 km
Our company representative will welcome you at Tribhuwan International Airport and drive you by private vehicle to hotel. Preparation and briefing about the trip.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,592 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 02: Guided tour around world’s Heritage sites of Kathmandu.
Following breakfast, embark on a tour of UNESCO sites: Swayambhunath, Patan, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath. Overnight stay will be in the Thamel district.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,592 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalganj.
A scenic 45-minute flight takes you to the western lowland city of Nepalgunj.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Nepalganj (150 m)
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 04: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal and trek to Dunai.
After breakfast, a 45-minute flight brings you to Juphal. From there, a 3-hour walk leads to Dunai. The trek then follows the Thuli Bheri River, passing hillside villages.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Juphal (2,475m/8,118ft), Dunai (2,140m/7,019ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/ Lodges
Day 05: Trek from Dunai to Chhepka.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 14 km
The trail proceeds through a forested canyon alongside the Suligad River.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Chhepka (2,838m/9,308f).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 06: Trek from Chhepka to Rechi.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 12 km
Enjoy a gentle trail that runs beside the river through stands of pine and birch.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Rechi (2,940m/9,643ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 07: Trek from Rechi to Ringmo Village.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 13 km
Arrive at the beautiful village situated near the striking turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Ringmo Village (3,733m/12,244ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 08: Rest and acclimatization at Ringmo. Free exploration.
Duration: Optinal hikes
Distance: 1-2 hrs
A free day allows you to explore the lake shores and a nearby monastery.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Ringmo (3,733 m/12,244 ft)
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 09: Trek from Ringmo to Phoksundo Khola.
Duration: Approx. 5 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 10.3 km
Walk along the edge of the lake before entering a remote valley.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Phoksundo Khola (3,750/12,300ft) via Phoksundo Lake (3,600m/11,808ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 10: Trek from Phoksundo Khola to Campsite.
Navigate a steep and rocky trail that winds through dramatic canyons.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Campsite (4,717m/15,471ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 11: Trek from Campsite to High Camp (4,900m/16,072ft).
Duration: Approx. 4-5 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 6.5 km
Ascend through a glacial valley as you approach the high pass.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: High Camp (4,900m/16,072ft)
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 12: Trek from High Camp to Shey Gompa via the crossing of Nangda La Pass.
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 14 km
This is a long day crossing a high pass, featuring views of the famed Crystal Mountain.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Shey Gompa (4,343m/12,245ft), Nangda La Pass (5,350m/17,548ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 13: Full-day excursion around Shey Gompa.
Take time to visit an ancient monastery and explore its mystical surroundings.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Shey Gompa (4,343m/12,245ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 14: Trek from Shey Gompa to Namgung.
Duration: Approx. 5 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 10 km
A narrow trail high above a gorge leads to a traditional settlement with stone-walled houses.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Namgung (4,806m/15,763ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 15: Trek from Namgung to Saldang.
Duration: Approx. 4 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 8 km
Enter the high, arid desert landscape characteristic of Inner Dolpo.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Saldang (3,770m/12,365ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 16: Trek from Saldang to Khomas Gaon.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 13.3 km
Walk through remote villages, offering opportunities for cultural interaction.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Khomas Gaon (4,060m/13,316ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 17: Trek from Khomas Gaon to Mendo.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 11 km
The path involves crossing rocky ridges and traversing narrow trails.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Mendo (3,950m/12,956ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 18: Trek from Mendo to Rapka khola.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 14.3 km
Undertake a challenging ascent toward expansive high alpine pastures.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Rapka khola (5,205m/17,072ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 19: Trek from Rapka Khola to Chharkabhot.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 12.3 km
Descend into the Tibetan-style village of Chharka.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Chharkabhot (4,110m/13,480ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 20: Trek from Chharkabhot to Norbulung.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 13 km
Enjoy a scenic walk along a ridge following trails used for seasonal yak grazing.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Norbulung (4,750m/15,580ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 21: Trek from Norblung to Sangda Phedi via the crossing of Niwal Pass.
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 14.8 km
A long day includes crossing another high pass followed by a steep descent.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Niwal Pass (5,120m/16,793ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 22: Trek from Sangda Phedi to Sangda.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 10.3 km
Traverse a rough and challenging trail through arid hills.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Sangda (3,940m/12,923ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 23: Trek from Sangda to Dhagarjun.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 11.8 km
The route passes several small settlements and crosses numerous ridges.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Dhagarjun (3,840m/12,595ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 24: Trek from Dhagarjun to Jomson.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 14 km
The final descent offers views into the vast Kali Gandaki valley.
Meals: BB/Full Board
Max Altitude: Jomsom (2,730m/8,954ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges
Day 25: Fly to Pokhara. Sightseeing, boating or free for any other personal activities.
Duration: Approx. 20 minutes flight
A short, scenic flight brings you to Pokhara. Upon arrival, you can relax and explore this lakeside city. Your overnight stay will be in Pokhara.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Pokhara (822 m/ 3947 Ft)
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 26: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu.
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs drive / 20-30 minutes Flight
Distance: Approx. 200 km
After an early breakfast, return to Kathmandu by drive or flight. The drive itself offers beautiful views of rivers, verdant hills, and rural villages. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,592 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 27: Final departure. Drop to airport as per flight schedule.
Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
Distance: Approx. 7 km
Our representative will drop-off as per flight schedule.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Tribhuvan Internation Airport (1,338 m/4390 ft)
Equipment Checklist
Embarking on the Annapurna Seven Pass 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 Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Cancellations
Full refund if cancelled 15 days prior; 50% refund if cancelled 8–14 days prior; no refund if cancelled within 7 days due to finalized arrangements. Cancellations to be made in writing (email/message); in cases of severe weather, natural events, or government restrictions, tours may be rescheduled/credited for future use; travel insurance is recommended.
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