4.9
We lead this 25-day remote expedition across high Himalayan passes, ancient monasteries, and the deep turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake.
- 25 days
- moderate
- Max 12
region
Dolpo
We guide expeditions into Nepal's remote western frontier, where the high-altitude deserts of Dolpo preserve ancient Tibetan traditions largely untouched by modern infrastructure. Our routes traverse
Good to know
Common questions about Dolpo
Direct guidance from our Kathmandu-based team on permits, seasons, and logistics.
What permits are required for trekking in Dolpo?
Because Dolpo is divided into restricted zones, you need a special Restricted Area Permit (RAP) issued through a registered local agency. For Lower Dolpo, the RAP costs USD 20 per week, while Upper Dolpo requires USD 500 for the first 10 days. You will also need the Shey Phoksundo National Park entry permit and a TIMS card, which our team manages in Kathmandu before departure.
What is the altitude range on the Dolpo treks?
Dolpo is a high-altitude plateau region with most trekking routes traversing terrain between 2,500 metres and 5,300 metres above sea level. Key high points include Kang La pass at 5,360 metres and Saldang la at 5,200 metres. You should allow sufficient days in your itinerary for proper acclimatization before attempting these crossings.
When is the best time of year to visit Dolpo?
The ideal months for trekking in Dolpo are from March to May in the spring and September to November in the autumn. Unlike the southern slopes of the Annapurnas, Dolpo sits in a rain shadow behind the Dhaulagiri range, making it a viable option during the monsoon months of June to August when rainfall is minimal. We advise checking flight schedules to Juphal airport before finalizing your dates.
How difficult is the main trek in Dolpo?
Dolpo treks are classified as strenuous and remote, suited only for experienced hikers with strong cardiovascular fitness. You will walk 5 to 7 hours daily over steep mountain passes, loose scree, and isolated trails far from immediate medical evacuation points. Our lead guides carry comprehensive first-aid kits and satellite communication gear on every departure.
Are there teahouses in Dolpo or do we need to camp?
Lower Dolpo features basic teahouses and homestays in villages like Dunai and Tarakot, though facilities are rustic compared to the Everest or Annapurna regions. Upper Dolpo is strictly a full camping trek where our team sets up dining and sleeping tents each night. We provide all camping gear, kitchen staff, and pack animals for expeditions into the upper valleys.
How many days are needed for a Dolpo trek?
A complete circuit of Lower Dolpo typically requires 18 to 21 days starting from the airstrip in Juphal. If you plan to include Upper Dolpo and Lake Phoksundo, your itinerary should extend to 24 or 28 days to accommodate the remote distances and necessary altitude gain. We recommend adding two buffer days in Kathmandu to account for potential weather delays on the mountain flights.
Overview
About Dolpo
We guide expeditions into Nepal's remote western frontier, where the high-altitude deserts of Dolpo preserve ancient Tibetan traditions largely untouched by modern infrastructure. Our routes traverse demanding mountain thoroughfares such as the Kang La and Saldang La, leading trekkers through isolated settlements where the Bon religion continues to thrive alongside traditional Buddhism. The centerpiece of this region is Shey Phoksundo Lake, renowned for its deep turquoise waters enclosed by sheer slate cliffs, situated beneath the striking peak of Norbu Kang.
Traveling through Dolpo requires navigating strictly controlled restricted areas. We secure all necessary upper Dolpo and lower Dolpo special permits, which mandate licensed guide accompaniment and registered camping logistics. Because of the extreme topography and prolonged winter snows blocking routes like the Jeng La, we operate these journeys exclusively during the stable weather windows of spring from April to June and autumn from September to November. Our team provides the logistical depth required for this austere terrain, ensuring safe passage through valleys that remain among the most isolated inhabited places on earth.
Popular trips
Trips in Dolpo
4.6
We lead expert-guided treks through the remote valleys and high passes of western Nepal's Dolpo region.
- 18 days
- moderate
- Max 12
4.7
We guide a remote 25-day traverse through the high valleys, ancient monasteries, and salt-caravan routes of Upper Dolpo.
- 25 days
- moderate
- Max 12
4.7
We guide an 18-day exploratory route through western Nepal's remote Lower Dolpo, crossing high passes and visiting Phoksundo Lake.
- 18 days
- moderate
- Max 12
Showing 4 of 4 trips