Upper Dolpo Trek - 26 Days

About Trip:

Upper Dolpo Trek is takes us to a mystical land, home to some of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the world along with an untouched Tibetan culture. Expeditions into Dolpo are challenging due to the almost non-existent infrastructure, contributing to the feeling of being detached from the modern world and miles from the heaps of tourists. The landscapes and villages here are even more desolate and authentic than what we encounter in the lower parts of Dolpo.  This strenuous trek will take us through this mystical land of ancient Buddhistic and Bonpo traditions interwoven with shamanistic influences, leaving you with memories of a lifetime and an experience very few people will ever live to see.

The Upper Dolpo Trek to Shey Gumpa allows us to experience the magnificence of the rugged and remote far west of Nepal, where the culture and landscape is more reminiscent of the northern neighbor of Tibet. The trail leads us to Shey Gumpa which is referred to as the spiritual heart of Upper Dolpo. The monastery which was built in 1655 is situated at the base of the Crystal Mountain (Ribo Drugta), which is a well-visited pilgrimage site also known in myths as the younger brother to the holy Mt. Kailash.Furthermore, we will cross the three high passes of Nagdalo La (5350m) the Shey La (5010m) and Jeng La (5220m). The trail lingers above 4000m for longer periods resulting in some very cold nights. These challenging conditions set up by mother nature, will reward us with unique insights into a preserved and veiled culture.

Apart from the mesmerizing culture we will encounter on this adventure, the Upper Dolpo Trek is taking us to the Shey Phoksundo National Park, which is one of the natural parks in the world having the highest animal concentration. Gaze over the turquoise waters of Lake Phoksundo and keep an eye out for the shadowy and magnificent snow leopard.

The Upper Dolpo is a restricted area where a fee of US$ 500 will be charged for the first 10 days, and an additional US$ 50 for each day added. The relatively high permit fee is limiting the number of trekkers visiting Upper Dolpo and contributes to Upper Dolpo as being a very special trek offering an exclusive experience.