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At a Glance
Duration
17 Days
Activity
Trekking, Sightseeing, Himalayan views, culture
Best Season
September- December and March - May
Difficulty
Easy to moderate
Group Size
1-18 Pax
Transportation
Private vehicle, Tourist bus or flight
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner , Tae , Coffee
Accomodation
Lodge to Lodge Trekking we organize camping Trekking too
Description
The Highlight of the Upper Dolpo Trekking
- Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepaljung and then to Jhupal with aerial views of the Himalayas.
- Visit Shey Phosundo Lake and explore the Buddhist monasteries. Numla Pass (5190m) and the visit to the forbidden kingdom.
- Massif view of mountains, beautiful flora and fauna of Phoksunda National Park.
- Here you can observe spectacular views of many stunning mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Kanjiroba. You can also explore the amazing wildlife.
Trip Summary
Upper Dolpo Trekking is one of the least developed and restricted regions of Nepal, providing you with amazing moments of your life. This trek offers a great chance to observe the unique local culture of this region and the Buddhist monasteries, as the region is sacred and largely untouched by modernization. The main attractions of Upper Dolpo include:
- Phoksundo Lake
- Fascinating people and Tibetan Buddhist culture & lifestyle
The trek is for those with previous trekking experience who are seeking another heart-throbbing adventure.
About the Region
One of the least developed and most remote areas in Nepal, the Upper Dolpo region is unique compared to other trekking destinations. The area is inhabited by only a few hundred people, living well above 4300 meters in altitude. The unique culture and traditions have remained intact for decades, largely due to its geographical isolation. This site is home to snow leopards, blue sheep, and mysterious old monasteries with rich history. If you prefer a shorter trail, consider the Lower Dolpo Trek.
The first trek in this region was organized in 1990 by a British tour operator through the route of Lower Dolpa. Since then, trekking has been allowed but requires special permission from the government as the area is protected. The trek is suited for those with previous trekking experience who seek another thrilling adventure. Exploring this remote area is an opportunity to experience the restricted and forbidden kingdom. You can also sightsee in Kathmandu and explore ancient temples and monasteries. Sunrise Adventure Trek will make your trip memorable.
Additional Information
However, the Upper Dolpo trekking route passes through numerous gigantic mountain ranges, including Mt. Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Kanjiroba, to name a few. Within the trek route, we reach Ringmo, another highlight of the trek. Enjoy two nights to appreciate the deep blue waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake and the surrounding snow peaks of the Kanjirova Himalayan range. Next, visit the nearby isolated village of Ringmo and its monastery. Continuing the journey, we head towards the Crystal Mountain at Shey Gompa, following the ancient Trans-Himalayan Trade Route. Finally, return to Juphal for the flight back to Nepalgunj. This alternative route provides more opportunities to explore the fascinating wild west of the Nepal Himalayas.
Itinerary
Altitude: 1,350m/4,428ft - Welcome to Kathmandu, our Sunrise Adventure Trek airport representative will welcome you in the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Then, at evening we will give you shortly details of the trip program. Overnight stay in hotel
After breakfast visit World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley which includes Swayambhunath Stupa / Monkey Temple, Bauddhanath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple and arrangements for trek after trekking. Stupas and temples were made in ancient time and bear the great historical plus cultural values. Pashupatinath temple is mostly famous between Hindu pilgrimages. Along with religious impressions, it offers beautiful statues and structures built in ancient Nepalese architect style.
We take a scenic flight to Nepalgunj which takes an hour. As Nepalgunj is situated in western region, we can get a chance to observe the stunning mountainous views and the terai town during the flight and our overnight is also there. So, we can also closely explore the local cultures of Terai people.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and finally an overnight stay in trekking lodge.
This morning we fly from Nepalgunj to Jumla. Jumla is the head quarter of Karnali zone. Thus, we see the governmental and non-governmental organization. Jumla is also known as the origin place of Nepalese language. Leaving the airport at Jumla, we cross the Tila Khola and the Chaudabise Khola near their confluence and climb gradually to a fertile valley of rice terraces. During the trek we pass by the Garjyakot and Depal villages where we observe the living style of Chetri people and traditions follow by them.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and finally an overnight stay in trekking lodge.
We have an early breakfast and start our trek by following the Tila Khola. Passing by Tila Khola we walk through fields of corn, potato, buckwheat and barley. Along with this we pass through the Tibetans Maniwals on the way. Here we have lunch and take rest for few minutes then, we continue the trek along the river to Napakhola. Napakhola is a small Buddhist settlement where we get to observe the Buddhism cultures and values.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and finally an Overnight stay in a camp or lodge.
Today, the trail is more steeply and we climb through a forest to a pass named Mauri Lagna [3820m]. After this, we trek through birch and sliver fire forest to reach Chaurikot. Reaching at Chaurikot offers the scenic views of Patrasi and Jagadu Himal visible to the north.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and finally an Overnight stay in a camp or lodge.
After having breakfast we pass village of Balasa inhabited by blacksmiths and tailors. Walking through the beautiful forests of walnut trees we get to observe the spectacular views of Kagmara Peak. Trail drops us to a stream before climbing the rocky trail in which we pass by the apple orchards of jyakot.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and finally an Overnight stay in a camp or lodge.
Today we climb gradually through lots of thorn bushes, where you can see the greenery of enchanting dense forests. After this we pass by Hurikot and along with walking for some hours we arrive at the entrance to the Shey Phoksundo National Park.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and finally an Overnight stay in a camp or lodge.
We take our breakfast and continue to follow the trail upward of river stream. We ascend slowly towards the Kagmara La. Trek to Kagmara is short and easy as well. During the trail we get to observe the surrounding of green forests with rhododendron flowers.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and finally an Overnight stay in a camp or lodge.
Walking continuously the trail becomes steeper today and comes to a rocky area. Slightly, the trail climbs to a moraine below the Kagmara La, and we make our camp among the boulders here. Reaching at Kagmara La offers the excellent views of mountains surrounded by, and the magnificent forests surrounding trials below.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and finally an Overnight stay in a camp or lodge.
Today, the climbs become very strenuous now until a pass, this is a good place to spot the rare blue sheep. We walk down through the pastures of the Pungmo Khola Valley. Overnight camp at Pungmo Khola in the grassy spot
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and finally an Overnight stay in a camp or lodge.
The trail now enters birch and juniper forests. Good view of Kanjirowa peak on the way and can see a Good settlement of Tibeatan villages with Yak herders. The area is covered in Junper Birch and Apple trees.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and finally an Overnight stay in a camp or lodge.
After breakfast we continue downstream to the national park headquarters at Sumduwa before joining the trail up the Phoksumdo Khola to Phoksumdo Lake. Working through a forest of Cedar on the way we will encounter a biggest waterfall of Nepal.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and finally an Overnight stay in a camp or lodge.
Today we rest at Phoksundo Lake to admire the beauty of this great lake. We have our breakfast and enjoy the majestic views of snowy peaks. We can get to observe the marvelous views of mountains known as Kanjirolba and Kagmara and Batrasi Himal. Along with this we visit nearby villages, where we closely explore the Tibetan cultures of people and at last the Ringbo Gompa
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and finally an Overnight stay in a camp or lodge.
Walking through the forests of juniper and blue pine we collect some beautiful moments. The trail takes us following the river bank up to the valley and a waterfall. Finally, we will camp at the base camp of Bagala pass.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and finally an Overnight stay in a camp or lodge.
Numla Pass base camp (5,190 m) - we trek through the narrow valley which slightly becomes wider and is surrounded by big glaciers. The scenery offers the best views along with blade-shaped rock cliffs. During the walk we enjoy incredible views of the Kanjiroba massif to the west.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and finally an Overnight stay in a camp or lodge.
Chering Gompa - After the early breakfast we ascend to the top of the Numla Pass if the weather is clear, we can see as far as spectacular views of Dhaulagiri ranges. Walking for some hours ahead takes us to a beautiful valley of Upper Tarap where we can get a chance to closely analyze the daily living style and cultures of local people. Finally, we Camp near by Chering Gompa.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and finally an Overnight stay in a camp or lodge.
Inclusions
- Airport pick up and departure and all ground transportation during trips.
- Hotel in Kathmandu two or three star category in twin sharing bed with breakfast basis
- Kathmandu sightseeing with city tour guide
- Accommodation in lodge and full board meals during the trekking
- Govt. trained guide and necessary no.of porters with their insurance, salary and meals
- All fees for TIMS card and Trekking Permit
- Domestic Flight according to Itinerary
- Sleeping bag, Down jacket & necessary equipment's during the trek
- One cultural show and dinner program
Exclusions
- International Flight ticket & your personal expenses
- Major meals in cities cold & alcoholic drinks
- Extra shower, battery re-charge, laundry charge etc.
- Tips to guide and porter and your insurance
Frequently Asked Question
-
Trekking Group Size
We organize trekking in Dhaulagiri region for any number of people. If the group consists of more than 16 pax, we will split the group and arrange accordingly. We will assign one trek leader, one assistant leader for the group of four pax and porters (one porter between two members ) to carry members luggage. This arrangement ensures that the group can still go ahead as scheduled itinerary despite any member gets sick on the way in the trekking. -
Experience and Health Requirements
Upper Mustang trekking is considered a moderate trek suitable for those who can hike for 6 – 8 hours a day. Obviously hiking in the high altitude will not be so easy rather physically more demanding, however our itinerary is scheduled for the proper acclimatization while gradually gaining the altitude in the trekking. It will be advisable to have some walking and hiking or other outdoor activities for more than two weeks which will contribute to comfortable accomplishment in reaching Upper Mustang. No technical skills or use of crampons are required for this trekking. It is highly recommended for the trekkers to consult with the doctors before coming for this trekking. Trekkers who have asthma, allergy or any other diseases related to hurt, lungs should take more precaution for this trekking. -
Travel Insurance
Trekkers need to have traveling insurance which covers the comprehensive expenses that might incur due to medical issues or accidents (this includes air ambulance, helicopter rescue, and medical treatment costs). Insurance companies in Nepal do not provide travelling insurance for the foreigners and the trekkers need to get the travelling insurance from one of the international insurance companies. Sunrise Adventure Trek will have accident insurance for the trekking staff. -
Accommodations
Accommodation in Kathmandu will be arranged on twin sharing basis on BB plan except the extra cost for the single supplement (depending on the room availability ) according to the choice of the standard of the hotels before and after the trekking. Accommodation during the trekking will be arranged at standard teahouses/ lodges with unheated rooms with wooden beds and foam mattresses on twin sharing basis. The trekkers will have to share washing and toilet facilities. If the trekker is a solo traveler, he/she will have to share a room with the trekker of same sex. -
Meals
Trekkers are provided three meals a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during Upper Mustang trekking. They can enjoy wide variety of food from typical Nepali food, to all types of international cuisine. Unlike other trekking companies, Sunrise AdventureTrek allows trekkers to choose the food from the menu at the hotel / lodges in the trek. When the group is too big for the hotels/ lodges to provide individual dishes, set menu will be arranged in most places. We use the lodges / hotels which serve hygienic, nutritious and good food for the trekkers for them to get enough energy for the hiking. -
Acclimatization
Any trekker can get altitude sickness while trekking in the high altitude despite strong physically fitness. What is important is giving enough time for the proper acclimatization for the trekking. Sunrise Adventure Trek has planned the itinerary with gradual altitude gain giving enough time for acclimatization for the trekkers. Hiking slowly specially in the high altitude help prevent AMS ( Acute Mountain Sickness ). If anyone feels dizzy, suffer palpitation or severe headaches and loss of appetite, he / she will be moved to the lower altitude immediately or arrange the helicopter rescue in the severe case of AMS and the client has to pay for it. -
Equipment and Packing List
A variety of clothing is necessary for the Upper Mustang trek. While choosing the equipment trekkers need give emphasis on two simple aspects: Lightweight and Functional. The items should be lightweight, dependable, and adaptable to a variety of extreme weather conditions. The quality of the trekking equipment you choose has a lot to do with how warm, dry, and safe you will remain. For this reason you have to be critical of quality and the proper fit of clothing. -
Clothing
- T – shirts - Hiking shorts - Undergarments - Full sleeves shirts - Long light weight cotton pants - Fleece or wool pants (seasonal) - Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell pants. - Insulated pants / nylon windbreaker - Light and expedition weight thermal tops. - Fleece jacket or pullover - Waterproof shell jacket - Down jacket - Light warm fleece hat / woolen hat - Sun hat - Lightweight gloves. - Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer (seasonal). Foot Wear - Hiking boots - Light and comfortable camp shoes - Thin, lightweight inner socks. - Thick, warm wool hiking socks Accessories - Down Sleeping bag - Trekking bag / Duffle bag ( to carry for the porter ) - Day pack ( to carry with the trekkers to put the things required during the day time ) - Large plastic bags ( to keep items dry inside the trekking bag ) - Water bottle - Head lamp with spare bulb and batteries - Trekking poles - Personal medicine box - Sunglasses with UV protection. - Books, dairy, pen, walkman and any other game instruments Toiletries and Personal Hygiene - Quick drying small towel - Toothbrush / paste - Soap - Face and body moisturizer - Sun block for lips - Tissues / toilet rolls - Wet wipes - Feminine hygiene products - Anti bacterial hands wash -
Trek Leader(s) and Staff
All our trek leaders are well experienced who have led trekking in Dhaulagiri region for more than eight years. Their in-depth knowledge about culture, custom, the geological surroundings as well as their professionalism, sincerity, and their hospitality make your dream of successful trek a enjoyable, memorable event in your life. Although our trek leaders are not highly educated, they are well experienced, professionally trained and posses good leadership skills to operate the trip smoothly. Their smiling faces, loving and caring attitude will make your even a hard walking day a pleasant one. All trekking staff of Sunrise Adventure Trek are locally employed and have the adequate knowledge about culture, ecosystem, flora, fauna, geography, history and the safety measures in running the trips. Their attitude and the efforts will be always concentrated on the less impact of the trekkers to the local culture, custom, nature and the eco system -
Porter Care
We are strongly committed to the porters rights. We make sure that they are well paid and have the proper clothing, foot ware and shelter. We are aware that no porter should be asked to carry a load that is too heavy for their physical abilities and the weight limit should be adjusted for altitude, weather and trail condition. We request our members not to have more than 15 kg weight of luggage to give to the porters. Porters who become sick while in the trekking are treated with high priority just like the other trekking staff or the members. If needed helicopter is sent and rescued in case of sever condition of sickness or accident. All porters are insured for sickness and accident. -
Season
Nepal, as a tourist destination is good for all seasons, however, the best seasons for trekking to Dhaulagiri region are Spring (March – May) and Autumn (mid Sept. – mid Dec. ). Trekking in autumn season is noted for clear weather and excellent views of silvery mountains against blue sky. It gets colder towards the end of December. This trek can be done in any month except January and February.
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