The journey commences from Juphal, a modest airstrip nestled in the Jumla district, and follows the age-old trade route that binds Dolpo with Tibet. The trek meanders through a symphony of landscapes, from verdant forests to parched deserts, deep canyons, and lofty mountain passes. One of the most captivating facets of the Upper Dolpo Trek is the opportunity to explore the traditional lifestyle and culture of the Dolpo people. These denizens have inhabited the region for centuries, preserving their unique culture and rituals. Rooted in Tibetan heritage, they practice Bon Buddhism, a shamanistic faith predating Tibetan Buddhism.

Noteworthy are their distinct attires, including woolen chubas, adorned with Topi hats and vibrant aprons. Proficient in traditional crafts such as weaving, woodcarving, and metalwork, the Dolpo people exemplify artisanal finesse. The trek’s allure is further accentuated by the Shey Phoksundo National Park, a sanctuary for rare and endangered species like snow leopards, musk deer, and blue sheep. At its heart lies the resplendent Phoksundo Lake, a turquoise gem ensconced amidst towering peaks.

An arduous venture, the Upper Dolpo Trek demands robust physical fitness and prior trekking experience. The optimal period to undertake this journey is from May to October, a window of clear skies and prime trekking conditions. In essence, the Upper Dolpo Trek beckons those seeking a unique and off-the-beaten-path expedition in Nepal. With its awe-inspiring landscapes, cultural heritage, and rare wildlife, this odyssey unveils a realm of unparalleled grandeur.

Trans-Himalayan Journey: Unearthing Upper Dolpo’s Essence

Known as the Trans-Himalayan Trek Nepal, the Upper Dolpo trek unfolds within mid-West Nepal. This itinerary unfurls through the frigid domains of the fabled Shey Gompa Monastery beyond Phoksundo Lake, encompassing one of the closest and most accessible borders with Tibet. While the Lower Dolpo trek may grant access to Phoksundo Lake, the Upper Dolpo trek immerses you in the spiritual core of the Dolpo Region, renowned as the Crystal Monastery, nestled beneath the revered Crystal Mountain. A pilgrimage site for many, the mountain’s circumambulation is believed to liberate from the cycle of life and death.

A tapestry of traditional Tibetan cultures intertwined with snow leopards, blue sheep, and highland grazing yaks awaits in Upper Dolpo. The trail winds through immense Himalayan summits, crossing five imposing passes: Kang La (5,380m), SALDANG La (5,060m), Chharka La (5,015m), Sangda La (5,515m), and lower Sangda La (5,035m).

The Upper Dolpo Circuit to Jomsom Trek itinerary integrates segments of the Great Himalayan Trail, uniting Nepal with the Tibetan border. Geographically within Nepal yet culturally reminiscent of Tibet, this region resonates similarly with the Upper Mustang trek. Initially, the Upper Dolpo trek was accessible to foreign trekkers in 1989, following stringent government control to safeguard the area’s environmental and cultural integrity.

Ancient Buddhist monasteries, alongside pre-Buddhist Bon Po monasteries, dot the Upper Dolpo region, preserving the last vestiges of traditional Tibetan heritage. One such gem is the Shey Gompa, a Buddhist sanctuary at 4,200m within the She Phoksundo rural municipality of Dolpa, Nepal. Named Shey Gompa or Crystal Monastery by Tibetans, this village traces its origins to the 11th century. This monastery serves as the spiritual nucleus of the Upper Dolpo trek, ensconced in a crimson two-story edifice adorned with intricate Buddhist artworks. In 1220 BS, the Kagyu tribe initiated a festival symbolizing triumph over evil spirits, the Rakshas.

A paramount highlight of the Upper Dolpo experience is the captivating Phoksundo Lake, unrivaled on the trek circuit. Plummeting to depths exceeding 1,500 feet, the lake’s cerulean waters are encircled by dense pine forests and the towering magnificence of the Himalayan skyline.

Embarking on the Upper Dolpo Trek, your journey unfurls with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Juphal via Nepalganj. En route, you’re treated to panoramas of picturesque landscapes and vast mountain ranges. Wending through arid expanses and mixed woodlands, the trail escorts you to Ringmo Lake, Say Phoksundo Lake, and indigenous cultures. A spiritual haven named Gombas Monastery graces Crystal Mountain, home to semi-precious gems and historical edifices. As you traverse villages inhabited by devout Buddhists, the symphony of Tibetans conversing in their native tongue pervades the air. The ascent culminates in Musi Gaun, affording a glimpse of the Tibetan border before advancing toward Jomsom through the Sangdala pass (5,111 meters). This marks the inception of the Upper Mustang Trek, the Tilicho Pass Trek, the Dhaulagiri Pass, and the Thapa Peak Climb.

Retreats and Refuges: A Haven for Rest

Accommodations along the Upper Dolpo Trek vary. Chharka Bhot offers only basic tea house rooms, while other locales are exclusively suited for camping, bereft of tea house amenities. However, Dunai Bazaar, Phoksundo Lake, and Jomsom promise cozy lodgings for the Upper Dolpo Odyssey. Nestled in the region’s northeastern confines, Chharka Bhot is a rural village situated along the Tibetan border. It houses the Shree Chharka Bhot Basic School, a government institution facilitating education for approximately 120 children, encompassing those from adjacent hamlets.

Nourishing Sustenance: A Glimpse into Local Gastronomy

Upper Dolpo’s indigenous fare boasts staples like Champa, boiled potatoes, and Su Chya, as well as yak and goat meats. The region’s challenging topography denies expansive arable lands, limiting lucrative crop cultivation at such high altitudes.

Guided Ventures: Expedition with Nepal Wilderness Trekking

Trekking the western expanse of the Dolpo package is seamlessly orchestrated by our adept guides and well-equipped porters. Experience this journey through our comprehensive Nepal wilderness trekking packages, tailored

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