Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek 23 Days

Day 01: Arrival, hotel transfer & welcome dinner O/N Hotel (D)    

Upon your arrival, a representative from Manaslu Adventure Treks will warmly welcome you at the airport with a flower garland and ensure a smooth transfer to your designated hotel in the city. Once you check in and settle, the representative will provide a detailed program briefing, including an overview of your upcoming trip. Also, any necessary documentation will be reviewed and finalized to ensure everything is in order.

If time permits, you can explore the local area on a short walk. This will allow you to acclimate to the environment and enjoy the surroundings. The day concludes with a special welcome dinner hosted at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic Nepalese cuisine and get acquainted with fellow travelers and the Manaslu Adventure Treks team.

Day 02: Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150 m) O/N Hotel (B)

You will take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a bustling city in the south-western plains of Nepal. This flight is an essential step toward the Rara region, as Nepalgunj is a gateway to western Nepal’s remote areas. The flight offers stunning views of Nepal’s diverse landscapes. You will witness a dramatic transition from the hilly terrain of Kathmandu Valley to the vast plains of the Terai region. You can take the afternoon to relax and acclimate to the new environment. You stay overnight in Nepalgunj.

Day 03: Flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2475 m), trek to Dunai (2140 m), 4 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the journey to the Dolpo region begins with an early morning flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal, a small airstrip nestled in the mountains of the Dolpa District. The short but scenic flight provides stunning aerial views of the Himalayan foothills and lush valleys. Upon landing in Juphal, the real trekking adventure begins. The trail gradually descends through terraced fields and traditional villages, offering the first glimpses of the region’s rural lifestyle. The path winds along the banks of the Thuli Bheri River, following a relatively easy and well-established route. The trail passes through fields of wheat, barley, and maize, with vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the breeze and occasional views of the surrounding hills. After about 4 hrs of leisurely walking, you reach Dunai (2140 m), a modest bustling town with shops, schools, a hospital, and government offices. You say overnight in Dunai.

Day 04: Trek from Dunai to Ankhe (2896 m), 5-6 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trail leads from Dunai to Ankhe, marking the true beginning of the wilderness experience. The path initially follows the northern bank of the Thuli Bheri River before ascending gently along a scenic trail. The route soon enters the Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal’s largest National park. As you climb higher, the terrain transitions from cultivated farmland to lush pine forests, and the sound of the river accompanies much of the journey. The trail has several small ups and downs, offering views of emerald hillsides and deep river gorges. Colorful Buddhist chortens and Mani walls stand as spiritual markers along the way. Finally, you reach Ankhe, a small settlement nestled on the hillside with thick forests, where you stay overnight.

Day 05: Trek from Ankhe to Sulighat (3180 m), 5-6 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trek begins from Ankhe to Sulighat with a series of steep ups and downs as the path clings to the hillsides, occasionally dropping sharply toward the river before climbing again. Dense forests of pine, fir, and birch create a shaded, cool environment, and the sounds of birds and rushing water fill the air. Although the trail can be narrow and slippery in some sections, it offers spectacular views of deep gorges and distant waterfalls. After a few hours of trekking through a rugged landscape, the path gradually flattens out as it approaches Sulighat, a peaceful settlement located near the confluence of the Phoksundo and Suli Rivers. You stay overnight in Sulighat.

Day 06: Trek from Sulighat to Phoksundo (3589 m), 4-6 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trail leads from Sulighat to the breathtaking Phoksundo Lake, one of the major highlights of the entire journey. The path steadily climbs from Sulighat alongside the Phoksundo River, passing through beautiful forests of birch and bamboo, and offering glimpses of cascading waterfalls along the way. The trail then enters a more arid landscape as the altitude increases, and you will notice a dramatic change in scenery. After a few hours, the route arrives at a ridge that provides the first spectacular view of Phoksundo Lake, with its striking turquoise waters set against a backdrop of rugged cliffs and snow-capped peaks. From there, the trail descends sharply through rocky paths to reach the picturesque village of Ringmo, situated on the shores of the lake, where you stay overnight.

Day 07: Acclimatization at Phoksundo (3589 m) O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, you dedicate a whole day to acclimatization at Phoksundo Lake, allowing yourself to adjust to the higher altitude and prepare for the more demanding stages ahead. After several days of continuous trekking and gradual elevation gain, taking a rest day here is crucial for a safe and enjoyable journey. The day offers a perfect opportunity to explore the stunning surroundings of Phoksundo Lake. You can take a leisurely hike around the lakeshore, visiting the charming Ringmo village to observe its traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture, and explore the nearby Tshowa Gompa, a centuries-old Bon monastery perched on a ridge above the lake. The still, turquoise waters of Phoksundo reflect the towering cliffs and forests around it, creating a breathtakingly peaceful atmosphere that invites quiet reflection. This day also provides time to relax, enjoy the pristine natural beauty, and allow the body to fully acclimatize before the trek continues toward higher and more remote areas.

Day 08: Trek from Phoksundo to Khola Camp (3725 m), 4-5 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trail leads you from Phoksundo to Khola Camp, a remote campsite further into the heart of Dolpo. Leaving the tranquil shores of Phoksundo behind, the trail follows the western edge of the lake along a narrow, rocky path that clings dramatically to the cliffs above the water. This section of the trek requires careful footing but rewards with stunning, close-up views of the shimmering turquoise lake below. After reaching the far end of the lake, the landscape becomes wilder and more rugged. The trail descends into the wide Phoksundo Khola valley, where the terrain shifts to a rocky riverbed, surrounded by towering canyon walls. You follow the course of the river, often crossing it via temporary wooden bridges or by stepping across stones. Finally, you reach Khola Camp, located near the banks of the Phoksundo Khola, where you stay overnight.

Day 09: Trek from Khola Camp to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4402 m), 7 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the route leads from Khola Camp to Phoksundo Bhanjyang, steadily ascending toward higher altitudes and preparing for the upcoming pass crossing. The day begins by following the Phoksundo Khola upstream, with trekkers navigating rocky trails and crossing the river multiple times over makeshift wooden bridges or stepping stones. The landscape becomes increasingly barren and dramatic, with steep canyon walls rising on both sides and the river narrowing into a gorge in some sections. After several hours of gradual ascent along the river, the trail turns steeper, climbing up a side valley. As you gain elevation, you are rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding cliffs and snow-capped peaks. Eventually, the path leads to Phoksundo Bhanjyang, situated at the foot of Kang La Pass, which offers a stark but awe-inspiring Himalayan environment. You stay overnight in Phoksundo Bhanjyang.

Day 10: Trek from Phoksundo Bhanjyang to Shey Gompa (4200 m), 5-6 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the trek, as you cross the formidable Kang la Pass and descend to the sacred Shey Gompa. The day begins early with a steep and strenuous climb up rocky, loose trails toward Kang La pass (5360 m). The ascent is tough due to the high altitude and thin air, but the incredible panoramic views from the top make every step worthwhile. From the Pass, you are treated to breathtaking vistas of the barren Dolpo landscape, with endless layers of rugged peaks stretching toward the horizon. The trail then descends sharply into the magical valley of Shey. The descent is equally demanding, as it winds down loose gravel slopes into a broad, barren landscape shaped by ancient glaciers and rivers. After several hours of walking across this mystical terrain, the small cluster of buildings that make up Shey Gompa finally comes into view. Arriving in Shey Gompa feels almost like stepping into another world, which offers a perfect place to rest after a hard day’s journey.

Day 11: Acclimatization at Shey Gompa (4200 m), O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today is the well-deserved acclimatization and exploration day at Shey Gompa, allowing you to rest and adjust to the high altitude. Shey Gompa, often called the “Crystal Monastery”, sits nestled below the striking Crystal Mountain, a sacred peak encircled annually by pilgrims performing a traditional kora (circumambulation). The monastery is believed to date back to the 11^th century, is deeply connected to Tibetan Buddhism, and offers a glimpse into Dolpo’s spiritual heritage. You can spend the day visiting the monastery, learning about its ancient legends, intricate artwork, and religious practices. For those feeling energetic, a short hike around Crystal Mountain or into the surrounding valleys reveals surreal landscapes of barren cliffs, deep gorges, and wild riverbeds. Resting at Shey Gompa not only aids physical recovery but also deepens the cultural and spiritual connection to this extraordinary part of the Himalayas.

Day 12: Trek from Shey Gompa to Namduna Gaon (4400 m), 6-7 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the journey continues from Shey Gompa to Namduna Gaon, crossing the windswept and remote Sela La Pass. The day begins with a steady climb up barren hillsides, gradually gaining altitude as the trail winds through a stark and silent landscape typical of Dolpo’s high-altitude desert terrain. The climb to Sela La (also called Gela La) Pass, which sits at approx. 5096 m, is challenging but rewarding, offering sweeping views of the vast valleys and dramatic peaks that define the region. Then the trail descends sharply through a gorge and into a more protected valley. The path eventually leads to Namduna Gaon, a small, isolated settlement built into the hillside, where the houses blend naturally with the ochre-colored terrain. You stay overnight in Namduna Gaon.

Day 13: Trek from Namduna Gaon to Saldang (3620 m), 5-6 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trail leads from the remote settlement of Namduna Gaon to the culturally rich village of Saldang, one of the largest and most important villages in Upper Dolpo. The day starts with a steady ascent through a dry and rugged landscape, where the high-altitude desert terrain stretches out under wide Himalayan skies. The climb is gradual but demanding, passing through windswept valleys and ridgelines with sparse vegetation and dramatic rock formations. As you reach the top of a ridge, the vast expanse of the Saldang Valley opens up below – an impressive sight that signals the beginning of a more inhabited region. A long descent follows, eventually leading to Saldang, situated around 3770 m. The arrival in Saldang feels like entering a vibrant oasis of life in an otherwise stark and remote land, offering a deeper insight into Dolpo’s enduring heritage, where you stay overnight.

Day 14: Trek from Saldang to Yangze Gompa (4960 m), 4-5 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the route takes you from the vibrant village of Saldang to the secluded and spiritually significant Yangze Gompa. Departing Saldang, the trail veers northward, following a less-trodden path along the Nagaon Khola. The terrain is arid and expansive, with occasional encounters of yak caravans and small herding settlements, offering rare glimpses into the semi-nomadic lifestyle of the Dolpo people. The journey is relatively moderate in terms of elevation gain but long, taking about 5-6 hrs through an increasingly remote and mystical landscape. As the trail approaches Yangze, the valley narrows and the sense of isolation deepens. Yangze Gompa is a rarely visited but historically significant Bon monastery, one of the oldest in the region. Its ancient murals, scriptures, and sacred relics offer an extraordinary insight into the pre-Buddhist religious traditions of Dolpo. You stay overnight near the Yangze Gompa.

Day 15: Trek from Yangze Gompa to Sibu (4560 m), 6-7 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the journey continues from the remote and sacred Yangze Gompa to the small settlement of Sibu. The day begins with a return trek along the same path back toward Saldang, retracing steps through the arid river valley dotted with scattered chortens and Mani walls. After reaching Saldang, the trail heads southeast along the Namga Khola, gradually descending through wide open landscapes and occasional clusters of traditional houses and cultivated fields. The route passes through several small villages, such as Namdo, where you can observe the daily lives of the locals. Along the way, prayer flags flutter in the wind, and the scenery remains stark yet mesmerizing, with rugged cliffs and dry, sandy slopes dominating the view. Finally, you reach Sibu, a riverside campsite, often used by local herders, where you stay overnight.

Day 16: Trek from Sibu to Jeng La Phedi (4900 m), 5-6 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trail leads from Sibu to Jeng La Phedi, the base camp at the foot of the Jeng La Pass. The day begins with a gentle walk along the Nam Khong Khola, moving steadily through an increasingly remote and rugged landscape. The trail follows the river for a time before turning sharply upward, beginning a gradual but continuous ascent toward the base of the pass. As you climb higher, the valley narrows, and the vegetation becomes sparse, giving way to a stark, rocky environment shaped by wind and weather. The sense of isolation grows stronger, with only the occasional sight of grazing yaks or distant herder camps. After several hours of steady climbing, the trail reaches Jeng La Phedi, a small, exposed campsite nestled beneath towering cliffs, where you stay overnight.

Day 17: Trek from Jeng La Phedi to Tokyu Gaon (4209 m) via Jeng La Pass (5090 m), 5-6 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, it is a dramatic and fulfilling journey as trekkers cross the formidable Jeng La Pass and descend to the beautiful village of Tokyu Gaon. The day starts early with a steep and strenuous climb from Jeng La Phedi to the top of Jeng La Pass. The ascent is challenging due to the high altitude and loose, rocky trail, but the rewards at the summit are immense, offering sweeping views of the Dhaulagiri massif and the vast expanse of the Tibetan–influenced Dolpo Region. After enjoying the stunning panorama and sense of achievement, the trail begins a long descent down a broad, barren valley. As you lose elevation, the landscape gradually becomes greener, with signs of cultivation and human habitation slowly reappearing. After several hours of descent, the trail enters the wide Tarap Valley, one of the highest human-settled valleys in the world. Finally, you reach Tokyu Gaon, a picturesque village with its whitewashed stone houses, where you stay overnight.

Day 18: Trek from Tokyu Gaon to Dho Tarap (4040 m), 5-6 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trail offers a gentle and culturally immersive walk from Tokyu Gaon to Dho Tarap, one of the largest and most significant settlements in the region. The trek begins with a leisurely descent through the broad, fertile Tarap Valley, following a well-trodden path beside the Tarap Chu River. Surrounded by gently sloping hills, cultivated fields, and clusters of traditional stone houses, the landscape here feels more welcoming and settled compared to the stark wilderness of earlier days. Along the way, you pass through several small villages, ancient chortens, and Mani walls, encountering friendly locals engaging in daily life. After a few hours of steady walking, you reach Dho Tarap, a culturally rich village home to both Bon and Buddhist monasteries. You stay overnight in Dho Tarap.

Day 19: Acclimatization at Dho Tarap (4040 m), O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today is an acclimatization and rest day at Dho Tarap, offering you a valuable opportunity to recover, explore, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region. Situated at approx. 4040 m, Dho Tarap is one of the highest year-round settlements in the world and presents a fascinating blend of Bon and Tibetan Buddhist traditions. The day can be spent visiting the village’s ancient monasteries, such as Ribo Bhumpa and Drakar Dewa, interacting with locals dressed in traditional woolen garments and adorned with turquoise jewelry, or simply observing the unique rhythms of life in this high-altitude community. With its whitewashed homes, cultivated barley fields, and deeply spiritual atmosphere, Dho Tarap feels like a living museum of Tibetan culture. For those wishing to stretch their legs, gentle hikes around the surrounding hills provide excellent views of the Tarap Valley and glimpses of blue sheep or Himalayan griffons soaring overhead. This rest day not only helps the body adjust and recharge after days of challenging trek but also deepens the cultural and emotional connection to this remote and timeless landscape.

Day 20: Trek from Dho Tarap to Tarap Khola/Nawarpani (3545 m), 6-7 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trail leads from the serene village of Dho Tarap into the dramatic and rugged landscape of the Tarap Khola gorge. The day begins with a pleasant descent through the lower reaches of the Tarap Valley, passing stone-built houses, grazing yaks, and fluttering prayer flags that line the path. As you follow the Tarap Chu River downstream, the valley gradually narrows and steepens, transitioning into a gorge carved by centuries of glacial and river erosion. The terrain becomes increasingly wild and remote, with sheer cliffs rising on both sides and sections of the trail carved into rock walls. Suspension bridges and occasional log crossings take the path across the river, adding a sense of adventure to the day’s journey. After several hours of trekking through this dramatic canyon, a suitable campsite is reached near the confluence of the Tarap Khola, often referred to as Tarap Khola Camp or Nawarpani, where you stay overnight.

Day 21: Trek from Tarap Khola to Khani Gaon (2550 m), 6-7 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trail takes you deeper through the wild and captivating Tarap Gorge as you journey from Tarap Khola to Khani Gaon. This section of the trail is one of the most thrilling and visually dramatic parts of the trek, as the path meanders alongside the Tarap River, often clinging to the cliff edges or weaving through narrow rock corridors. The roaring river below and towering canyon walls above create an awe-inspiring atmosphere, while the trail itself requires careful footing in places due to its rugged nature. Suspension bridges and log crossings add to the adventure, and you are often treated to sightings of Himalayan wildlife such as blue sheep, rock lizards, or golden eagles soaring high overhead. As the gorge slowly begins to widen and the altitude drops, patches of greenery return to the landscape. Finally, you reach Khani Gaon, a small, welcoming settlement nestled on a riverside terrace, where you stay overnight.

Day 22: Trek from Khani Gaon to Tarakot (2540 m), 5-6 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trail leads from Khani Gaon to the historic village of Tarakot, marking a return to more inhabited and culturally rich landscapes. The day begins with a gradual descent alongside the Thuli Bheri River, as the trail winds through terraced fields, pine forests, and scattered villages, offering a welcome contrast to the stark, rocky gorges of previous days. The path is relatively easier compared to earlier rugged sections, and trekkers can enjoy the warmer temperatures, greener surroundings, and occasional encounters with friendly locals going about their daily lives. After several river crossings and gentle climbs, the colorful village of Tarakot appears, perched above the confluence of the Thuli Bheri and Barbund Rivers. Tarakot, once an important fortress town and administrative center, is known for its ancient Dzong fort and vibrant monasteries. You stay overnight in Tarakot.

Day 23: Trek from Tarakot to Dunai (2140 m), 5-6 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trail takes you from the historic village of Tarakot back to Dunai. The journey follows a well-established trail alongside the Thuli Bheri River, descending gently through lush valleys dotted with terraced farmland, pine groves, and scattered hamlets. As the altitude continues to drop, the climate becomes warmer and the landscape more vibrant, offering a pleasant and relaxing walk compared to the rugged terrain of earlier days. Along the way, trekkers pass traditional suspension bridges, hillside chortens, and friendly locals, many of whom are carrying goods along the trail by mule or horseback. After about 5-6 hours of walking, the trail arrives in Dunai, the administrative center of the Dolpa district. You stay overnight in Dunai.

Day 24: Trek from Dunai to Juphal (2475 m), 2-3 hrs O/N Lodge (B L D)

Today, the trail takes you from Dunai back to Juphal, the final leg of the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek. The day begins with a gentle walk along a well-traveled path, tracing the Thuli Bheri River through increasingly familiar scenery of terraced fields, stone houses, and small villages. The trail climbs gradually over a few hills, offering final views of the surrounding mountains and valleys before descending toward the airstrip at Juphal. Although the trek is relatively short, it demands careful footing, especially during the final uphill stretch leading to Juphal, where you stay overnight.

Day 25: Flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, then from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu (B L)

Today, you take an early morning flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, offering one last aerial glimpse of the remote hills and valleys of the Dolpo region. After landing in the warmer lowlands of Nepalgunj, there is usually a short layover before boarding the connecting flight to Kathmandu. As the plane ascends, the landscape transforms from flat Terai plains to rolling hills, and finally, the sprawling cityscape of Kathmandu Valley. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you are transferred to your hotel, where you can relax after a several-day-long trek. Afternoon is free and easy for personal activities.

Day 26: Free day in Kathmandu O/N Hotel (B D)

This day offers a free day in Kathmandu, allowing you to relax, explore the city, or do some last-minute shopping. You can treat yourself to a spa or massage at many hotels and wellness centers in Kathmandu. It’s a great way to relax your muscles after a long trek. You can explore Kathmandu’s rich culture by visiting iconic landmarks such as Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Patan Durbar Square. For shopping souvenirs, the popular tourist area of Thamel is perfect. If you prefer a more local experience, visit Asan Market or Indra Chowk to shop for spices, textiles, and souvenirs. The day concludes with a farewell dinner at a local Nepali restaurant and travel arrangements to your destination.

Day 27: Official end of the trip and departure to the airport (B) 

Manaslu Adventure Treks will organize a special Trip Conclude Ceremony on the final day. During this heartfelt event, the team will express gratitude for your participation and acknowledge the memorable experiences shared throughout the adventure. The clients are also free to provide feedback, which is valuable for the team to understand their experience and gather insights to improve future trips. As a token of appreciation, a souvenir will be presented to you, symbolizing the lasting memories of your adventure and deep connection to Nepal’s culture and natural beauty.

The day concludes with a final goodbye and transfer arrangements to your onward destination, whether to the airport or your next journey within Nepal. The team will ensure your departure is smooth and filled with warm wishes for future travels.