Upper Dolpo to Jomsom Trek - 25 days

Things to Know
  • Duration25 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Altitude Jungberi La Pass 5550 m
  • Trip Type Camping Trek
  • Start and End Kathmandu and Kathmandu
  • Best Time September and October
What You’ll Do
  • Remote Splendor: Discover the hidden beauty of Upper Dolpo, away from the crowds.
  • Scenic Route: Trek from Lower Dolpo to Jomsom, taking in awe-inspiring landscapes.
  • Cultural Riches: Visit the serene Phoksundo Lake, historic Shey Gompa, and authentic local villages.
  • Mountain Adventures: Cross multiple high passes, ending your trek in the charming town of Jomsom.
  • Off the beaten trek:Trek through the beaten track of Nepal that only a few visitors will ever see.
  • Home of Yarshagumba: Witness the hunt for yarshagumba in the spring, a bizarre, highly-looking caterpillar fungus for medical qualities.
  • Buddist influence culture: Buddhist holy place, Crystal Mountain, and Shey Gompa observe the unique Bon Buddhist culture.
  • High Passes Trek: More than five high passes above 5000 meters, extraordinary mountain views, meet locals and visit monasteries.

The Upper Dolpo to Jomsom trek is a thrilling and awe-inspiring adventure through the most remote region of Nepal. Nestled between the Tibetan Plateau to the north, Dolpo is a land where Tibetan Buddhist culture and the ancient Bon religion coexist, creating a unique and harmonious blend. This isolated area, opened to trekkers in 1989, remains largely untouched, preserving its mystique and timeless way of life. Upper Dolpo is a hidden gem, captivating visitors with its stunning contrasts and mesmerising beauty. Due to the special permits required to access this area, few have ventured here, keeping its allure intact. This trek offers a unique adventure, showcasing the rugged beauty and astonishing landscapes. Our 25-day journey from Upper Dolpo to Jomsom follows a clockwise route, starting in Jhupal and ending in Jomsom. We begin with a flight to Nepalgunj followed by a morning flight to Jhupal, the trek's official starting point. From Jhupal, we head north through Lower Dolpo, passing through Dunai, the deep-blue Phoksundo Lake, waterfalls, and high mountain passes, eventually reaching Shey Gompa and the picturesque villages of Dolpo. The Upper Dolpo region starts from Shey Phoksundo onwards. We follow an ancient trade route over a high pass to the renowned Shey Monastery next to Crystal Mountain. Along the way, we are treated to majestic views of peaks like Kanjiroba, the Annapurna Ranges, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri as we cross remote mountain passes with breathtaking panoramic views. The trek includes crossing several passes, the highest being Jugben La at 5,550 meters (18,040 feet). We continue east, enjoying stunning Himalayan landscapes and mountain views, eventually descending to the airport at Jomsom, the headquarters of Mustang District. From there, we take a scheduled flight back to Pokhara for an overnight stay, followed by a 7-hour drive back to Kathmandu the next morning.

Upper Dolpo Trek vs. Upper Dolpo Jomsom Trek

The Upper Dolpo Trek is a remote and challenging journey through the heart of Dolpo’s ancient Tibetan-influenced culture, dramatic landscapes, and traditional mountain settlements. After reaching Phoksundo Lake, the trail continues through rugged gorges and high mountain terrain toward Shey Gompa, followed by the traditional villages and seasonal settlements of the inner Dolpo region. The route then passes through Saldang, Yangjer, and other remote settlements before reaching Tinje, one of the important villages in the northern part of Upper Dolpo. Up to Tinje, the route follows the same trail for the Upper Dolpo Trek and the longer route toward Jomsom. From Tinje, the Upper Dolpo Trek takes a different route toward Dho Tarap, continuing through remote valleys and high Himalayan landscapes before completing the circuit. Trekkers continuing toward Jomsom follow the route via Rapka and Chharka Bhot, crossing several challenging high passes before descending toward the Kali Gandaki Valley and Jomsom. This remote route offers an exceptional combination of high-altitude wilderness, ancient monasteries, traditional Dolpo villages, and one of Nepal’s most authentic Himalayan trekking experiences.

Itinerary
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  • Altitude1400 m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Time1 hr

Our representative will greet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu of our officials will greet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, upon your arrival. We will take you to the hotel in our private tourist vehicle.

  • Altitude1400 m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Time4-5 hrs

After breakfast, Around  8.00 am your sightseeing trip will start. You will have a private vehicle and a professional tour guide. You will visit some popular UNESCO heritage sites inside Kathmandu Valley like swayambhunath, Boudhanath Stupa, Patan Durbar Square 

  • Altitude165 m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Time1 hour fly

The flight to Nepalgunj will give you good views of the Himalayas towards the North. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the evening walk around the town, which is 3.5 km from the Nepal-India border.

  • Altitude2413 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • TimeTime 35 mins flight, 4-6 hours trek

Flight of approximately 45 minutes to Juphal (2475m) in the early morning are made at the small airport that allows you to approach Dolpo. Because of bad weather, It may be postponed or even cancelled. After arrival at Jupha airport, we present our Nepali Sherpa teams, we begin our trek with a descent to the junction at an altitude of 2082m of the Thuli Bheri and Suligad rivers -the river which comes from Lake Phoksundo where we will reach in 2 days. We continue along a path along this river to arrive at the hamlet of Kageni. Today you will stop Kageni.

  • Altitude2940 m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time6 hrs

On the second day of the hike, we follow the Suligad River, which climbs gradually (succession of short climbs and short descents). Pass the Kageni, Jutung, and Shangta villages. Arrive at the confluence of Maiba Khola and Phoksundo, and traverse a bridge over Phoksundo. Head towards the north and reach Chhepka and lunch, then continue our walk along the Phoksundo Khola then we reach Rechi. Set the camp and stay overnight.

  • Altitude3733 m
  • AccommodationTentd Camp
  • Time5-6 hrs

A trek to Ringmo Gaun begins. Walk through the Phoksundo Lake trail and ascend the cedar forest. Arrive at Palam which is a winter settlement of locals of Ringmo. After a few descends and ascends we will arrive at Ringmo Gaun. Get a glimpse of chortens and mani walls. Walk a little further to the shores of Phoksundo and set up the camp for an overnight stay.

  • Altitude3733 m
  • AccommodationTented Camp

An acclimatization day to adjust to the altitude for the next days. The day is spent exploring Phoksundo Lake and Ringmo village. The Tibetan village Ringmo natives are friendly and have their own culture and tradition. Also, visit Bon monastery called Tshowa. A great experience around the ancient monastery which is 900 years old. From there, a downhill walk towards Phoksundo Lake. The deepest lake in Nepal is truly mesmerizing. The turquoise colour water surrounded by natural scenery is magical. Complete the excursion and stay overnight at a camp.

  • Altitude3,680 m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time5-6 hrs

We walk at the bank of Phoksunda Lake with a splendid view on a path overlooking Lake Phoksundo. We enter the Upper Dolpo area where a special permit is required. After several climbs by passing viewpoint, we descend to another side of the lake. We continue our walk up the Phoksumdo Khola valley and arrive at our camp site (3680m).

  • Altitude4402 m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time5-6 hrs

Today you should take sandals or footwear suitable for knee-deep better for crossing a few streams. You walk on the north of the river, entering the glacial valley. Crossing many bridges in the river junction, continue the uphill climb to a steep George. From the top, you can see the Kang-La pass which connects us to the Dolpo valley. For today, we set our camps right at the Phoksundo Bhanjyang.

  • AltitudeKang La Pass at 5,350 m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time5-6 hrs

After breakfast, be prepared for a strenuous hike over the Kang La Pass at 5,350 m / 17,552.4 ft.This is one of the hardest days on the trek although you are rewarded by fantastic panorama views from the top of the prayer flag-covered pass. The downhill section starts steep but then becomes more gradual as you get closer to Shey Gompa.The village is tiny, with only a few houses, but the monastery is the main attraction.Mythology tells that Shey Gompa was built when a follower of Buddha arrived on the back of a flying snow lion to fight a fierce local mountain spirit. Shey Gompa was built on the site of this battle. Situated nearby is Crystal Mountain.

  • Altitude4160 m
  • AccommodationTented Camp

Shey means crystal in the Tibetan language. This monastery is also called the Crystal Mountain. We can visit the Shey Gompa and take blessings from the Lama. We can visit the Tsakang Gompa, west of Shey. It has been a meditation hub for lamas in medieval times. The monastery was built in the 11th century. Here, we can witness the perfect blend and harmony of Tibetan Buddhism and the ancient Pre-Buddhist religion Bon Po. We can later go around the area and explore the vicinity. There is a big festival in July/August (Sharwan Purnima). Pilgrims come to make the kora in mountain crystal.

  • Altitude4430 m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time6-7 hrs

We follow an easy path, the wide valley crossing numerous nomad camps. We continue our walk until we reach the Shey le-la pass (5010m) from where we can view the magnificent views of the Tibet border. An easy descent then a balcony path takes us to Namgung (4430m), a small hamlet of a few houses and an ancient Buddhist monastery.

  • Altitude3,770 m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time5-6 hrs

We climb up the path which allows us to exit the gorge. This way is easy and possible to see different kinds of wild animals, like blue sheep, vultures, Himalayan cock etc. We pass the Salang la pass (4400m) and descend slowly to the big village called  Saldang. That is one of the largest settlements in upper Dolpo with around 1000 inhabitants. There is Sakya-pa monastery school. It is a village known as Haut Dolpo. You can see the typical Tibetan houses.

  • Altitude4060m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time5-6 hrs

We will trek for 5-6hrs to reach Komas. On our trail, we pass through Khoma La, 4565m and then towards Khomas Village (a beautiful varied cultural village).  We see the great view of Saldang village on the way up, then begin our trek, after descending we will reach Khoma Goan. Which is very beautiful.

  • Altitude3870 m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time5-6 hrs

After breakfast, we gradually move towards Shimen. During the trek, you may see wild species such as Snow Leopard and Blue Sheep. We pass through the Shimen La (4260m) and then hike towards Shimen. This village is small but very beautiful.

  • Altitude4150 m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time4-5 hrs

Today we will walk along the side of Panjyang Khola and look over the beautiful villages and Monasteries along the way to Tinje. we will see some agricultural land and get a chance to encounter farmers. During trekking tenure, today you will see the beautiful Himalayan valley.

  • Altitude4535 m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time4-5 hrs

In the morning, Tinje Gaon looks beautiful with mountains all around. We walk through fields with old Buddhist monuments and cross a river to reach the campsite. During our trek, we will cross many kharkas, the temporary seasonal home of sheep and yak also known as grazing ground.

  • Altitude4350 m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time4-5 hrs

After breakfast, we trek towards Chharka by crossing the Mola Pass (5027m). It is a 5-hour walk from Rapka. We can explore the local culture and Bon Monasteries in Chharka.

  • Altitude4860 m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time5-6 hrs

We cross a small bridge and gradually climb along the river bank to our camp at Molum Sumna. We trek towards the highland today. Crossing the hills with the beautiful views of the surroundings we trek up to Molum Sumna.

  • Altitude4247 m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time6-7 hrs

After breakfast, we move on towards Ghaldang Ghuldum located at 4247m. The trail takes you through Niwa La Pass (5120) and Jungbenla Pass (5550). Going to Jungbenla Pass is the highest elevation we will go through in our Upper Dolpo to Jomsom trek.  You can have ample opportunity to see the different surroundings with different vegetation.

  • Altitude3710 m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time5-6 hrs

After breakfast, we move up and down to reach Sangda. Sangda is an isolated village that provides a mesmerizing view of the rain shadow area and different landscapes. It is located at an elevation of 3710m. 

  • Altitude2800 m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Time2 hrs

From Sangda we take the jeep up to Jomsom. We can enjoy a magnificent view of Thorang-la, Nilgiri Himal, Dhaulagiri and the villages of Kali Gandaki Valley.

  • Altitude822 m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Time5-6 hrs

After breakfast, we will begin our scenic drive from Jomsom to Pokhara, covering approximately 162 km through the beautiful Kali Gandaki Valley. Along the journey, we will make short stops at the charming apple village of Marpha, famous for its traditional stone houses and local apple products, and Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs and relaxing atmosphere. Continuing through picturesque mountain landscapes, rivers, and local villages, we will finally arrive in Pokhara, the beautiful lakeside city where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

  • Altitude1400 m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Time7 hrs

Finally, on the Last day, early morning, you will return to Kathmandu on a tourist bus. The 200 km route first goes along the Marsyangdi River and then the Trishuli River letting you enjoy the natural scenery and farmlands. In the evening, we host a farewell dinner in a fine restaurant.

    The trip concludes here. Our airport representative will drop you at the airport in Kathmandu for your final departure.

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    Trip Cost Details
    Included
    • Airport transfers for both international and domestic flights according to the flight schedule.
    • Twin-sharing accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara, including breakfast.
    • All trekking meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) prepared by our camping chef, including boiled drinking water, tea/coffee, and selected dry fruits.
    • Quality camping accommodation in high-quality three-person tents, arranged for two trekkers on a twin-sharing basis.
    • Experienced trekking leader and local guides, with an assistant guide-to-client ratio of 1:4 for personalized support.
    • Full camping crew and mule support for carrying food, camping equipment, and group supplies.
    • Complete camping logistics, including sleeping tents, dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, mattresses, and other essential equipment.
    • Private ground transportation as mentioned in the itinerary.
    • All required trekking permits and national park entry fees.
    • Domestic flights as included in the itinerary: Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Juphal.
    • Comprehensive first-aid kit and essential high-altitude medical supplies, with emergency oxygen support carried by the trekking team.
    • Waterproof duffel bag for the trek, and sleeping bag for use during the expedition.
    • Experienced and licensed trekking staff, including their wages, meals, accommodation, transportation, equipment, insurance, and allowances.
    • Government taxes and applicable service charges related to the trekking package.
    Excluded
    • International airfare
    • Nepal Visa | Nepal Visa Information
    • Clients Travel insurance
    • Meals at Kathmandu and Pokhara
    • Personal expenses
    • Gratuities for staff | Tips
    • Personal trekking gears and equipments
    Useful Info

    Best Time for Upper Dolpo Trek

    The best time for the Upper Dolpo Trek is from late May to October, with September and October being the most favorable months for clear skies, stable weather, comfortable trekking conditions, and safer high-pass crossings. Upper Dolpo lies in the rain-shadow of the Dhaulagiri Himalaya, making it significantly drier than most parts of Nepal during the monsoon season (June–August); once you reach the inner Dolpo region, trekking is generally possible with little rainfall. However, the main concern during monsoon is reaching Juphal, as flights between Nepalgunj and Juphal can be affected by rain and poor visibility, so extra buffer days are recommended. Late May to June is also an excellent period, when the winter snow has largely cleared and the high passes become more accessible, while early spring and late autumn are less reliable because snowfall can make high passes difficult or impassable. Winter (December–February) is not recommended due to severe cold, heavy snowfall, and blocked high passes. For the best overall experience of Upper Dolpo, Phoksundo Lake, Shey Gompa, Crystal Mountain, remote Dolpo villages, and high-altitude mountain passes, we recommend September–October, while late May through August offers an excellent alternative for experienced trekkers seeking the unique dry landscapes of Dolpo during Nepal’s monsoon.

    Upper Dolpa Trek Difficulty

    Upper Dolpo lies in the remote northwest of Nepal, between the Tibetan Plateau and the Dhaulagiri range. Opened to foreign visitors in 1989, this restricted region remains one of Nepal’s most isolated and untouched trekking destinations. Its dramatic high-altitude desert landscapes, ancient Tibetan-influenced culture, remote villages, Buddhist and Bon traditions, and spectacular mountain scenery make it a truly unique Himalayan adventure. The trek takes you through Shey Phoksundo National Park, past the magnificent Phoksundo Lake, Shey Gompa, Crystal Mountain, ancient monasteries, and several high mountain passes, with some sections above 5,000 meters. The region is also home to rare wildlife, including snow leopard, Himalayan blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, goral, and Himalayan black bear. With limited accommodation and long stretches of wilderness, Upper Dolpo is primarily a camping trek requiring good physical fitness, proper acclimatization, and previous high-altitude trekking experience. The remoteness and challenges are well rewarded by the opportunity to experience one of Nepal’s most pristine landscapes and authentic Himalayan cultures, far from the busy trekking routes.

    Accommodation and Food 

    The Upper Dolpo Trek is primarily a fully supported camping adventure, especially beyond Phoksundo Lake, where permanent teahouses and reliable lodge facilities are extremely limited. Simple lodges or family-run accommodation may be available around Juphal, Dunai, Phoksundo Lake, Saldang, and some larger villages, but availability is seasonal and should not be relied upon for the complete trek. During the remote sections, our trekking crew carries and sets up sleeping tents, comfortable mattresses, a dining tent, kitchen tent, and toilet tent, creating a practical and comfortable camp environment in the wilderness. Meals are prepared fresh by the camping cook and normally include breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea, coffee, and snacks, with nutritious options such as dal bhat, rice, noodles, pasta, soups, eggs, vegetables, Tibetan-style dishes, and other energy-rich meals suitable for long days at high altitude. Drinking water is provided through boiled or properly treated water, and trekkers should carry reusable bottles and appropriate purification supplies. Because Upper Dolpo is a remote, restricted, high-altitude trekking region, accommodation and food are necessarily simple rather than luxurious, but the fully organized camping experience allows you to explore isolated valleys, ancient villages, and high mountain landscapes where conventional accommodation is unavailable.

    Safety and Emergency Preparedness

    Safety is our highest priority on the Upper Dolpo Trek. Although Nepal Telecom has expanded mobile coverage into parts of Dolpa, connectivity remains limited and can disappear completely in remote valleys and high mountain passes, so trekkers should never rely solely on a mobile phone. Nepal Telecom launched 4G service in Kagkot in 2026, supported by a strategic tower at Mukot (4,200 m), while network coverage in other remote parts of Upper Dolpo continues to develop. Our experienced guides carry portable oxygen cans for emergency use and closely monitor trekkers for signs of altitude-related problems, with descent and evacuation arranged when necessary. We strongly recommend comprehensive high-altitude travel insurance covering your maximum trekking altitude, emergency medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, and altitude-related conditions. The choice of insurance provider is entirely yours; you may choose an international provider or a Nepal-based service such as Himalayan Guardian, which offers satellite-based GPS tracking and SOS connectivity through its Tracer device, subject to the policy terms. Satellite connectivity can provide an additional safety layer by helping locate trekkers when mobile networks are unavailable. With experienced guides, emergency communication, oxygen support, appropriate insurance, flexible itinerary planning, and proper preparation, we maintain a responsible safety system throughout your Upper Dolpo adventure.

     

     

    Price fromUS$4500(per person)
    We Offer Group Discount Price
      
    1 paxUS$5000
    2 paxUS$4500
    3 - 10 paxUS$4000
    11 - 20 paxUS$3800
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    Mr. Upendra Dawadi+977 9851328431

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