Upper Dolpo Trek — 28 Days · 28 days. Questions about dates, fitness or altitude? A trek planner will answer.

28 days
Upper Dolpo Trek
Experience a demanding 28-day trek through Upper Dolpo’s monasteries and high desert valleys, designed for premium travelers seeking restorative Himalayan adventures.
From
$5,180
Deposit $1,035
Trip facts
- Duration
- 28 days
- Highest altitude
- 5,000 m
- Best seasons
- May–June · September–October
Elevation profile

Overview
Upper Dolpo trekking involves extended time above 4,000 m, long camping stretches, and demanding high-pass crossings. Villages such as Saldang and Shey reflect a rich spiritual tradition shaped by centuries of caravan trade. This trek is ideal for those seeking a deep connection with nature and local culture in a remote Himalayan setting.
Map
Explore the route
Highlights
What sets this journey apart
1 / 7
Dates & price
- From
- $5,180 per person
- Deposit
- $1,035
- Duration
- 28 days
Pick a departure from the calendar and pay the deposit to hold your place. Want a date that isn't listed? Ask us.
Itinerary
Day by day
After the trail
Stay a few more days
Essentials
What's covered
Included
Leader & guide
- Licensed, English-speaking trekking guide with wilderness first-aid training.
Accommodation
- Kathmandu twin-share hotel; camping / basic lodges on trail as itinerary.
Internal flights
- Nepalgunj–Juphal domestic flights as listed on the itinerary.
Airport transfers
- ETE representative EV private-vehicle pickup at Tribhuvan International Airport; trip briefing on arrival day; local tra
Permits & fees
- Restricted-area Dolpo and Shey Phoksundo permits arranged and included.
Porter service
- One porter for every two trekkers, carrying up to 15 kg each.
Kathmandu meals
- Welcome and farewell dinners included; breakfasts provided during stay.
Ground transportation
- Private vehicle transfers only (airport, city, and trailhead sectors as itinerary) — no shared public road transport.
Not included
Trail meals
- Lunch and dinner at locally owned teahouses during the trek.
International flights
- International flights to and from Nepal.
Travel insurance
- Personal travel insurance with high-altitude coverage is mandatory.
Nepal visa
- Visa fees and immigration-related charges.
Personal equipment
- Personal trekking gear such as boots, sleeping bags, and trekking poles.
Tips & gratuities
- Tips for guides, porters, and support staff are customary but discretionary.
Personal expenses
- Expenses such as Wi-Fi, hot showers, and battery charging.
Extra accommodation
- Any additional nights in Kathmandu not part of the itinerary.
Questions
Before you commit
Answer · 01 of 10
How do west Nepal flights and road transfers work — and how should I plan buffer days?
Upper Dolpo itineraries typically involve a domestic flight to Nepalgunj, followed by a mountain flight to Juphal, and then road transfers to remote trailheads. Weather can affect flight schedules, so it's wise to plan buffer days for potential delays. After returning to Kathmandu, consider extending your stay with options like Kathmandu, Chitwan, or Bardiya Recreations for a couple of nights before your departure.

On this trek · shey-phoksundo-national-park
High desert culture. Fragile ground.
Minimal-impact ethics. Fair crew. Deep respect for local custom.
Whole-team stewardship
Packing
What to pack
Upper Dolpo Trek — 28 Days kit — counts for one person.
- 01
Base layers
Pack moisture-wicking base layers for both tops and bottoms to ensure comfort during the trek.
- 02
Insulation & shell
Bring a warm fleece or down jacket and a waterproof shell to protect against wind and rain.
- 03
Footwear
Sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support are essential, along with a pair of comfortable camp shoes.
- 04
Sleeping gear
A high-quality sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures is necessary for the cold nights in Upper Dolpo.
- 05
Day pack essentials
Include a day pack for carrying water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and extra layers as you trek.
- 06
Toiletries
Personal hygiene items should be compact and environmentally friendly; consider biodegradable options.
- 07
Documents & money
Carry your passport, trekking permits, and some Nepali rupees for local expenses.
- 08
First aid & meds
A personal first aid kit with altitude sickness medication, pain relievers, and any personal prescriptions is important.




