The Upper Dolpo Trek from Mustang with Tour of Nepal
The Upper Dolpo Trek from Mustang is an extreme 26-day journey through the untouched regions of Nepal, offering a challenging yet breathtaking experience. This trek starts in Jomsom, Mustang, and concludes in Juphal, Dolpo, covering high-altitude passes, remote valleys, and cultural sites.
Trip Highlights
– Duration: 26 days
– Difficulty: Extreme, with high-altitude passes, including Jungben La at 5,550m.
– Group Size: 6-10
– Accommodation: Combination of camping, teahouses, and local lodges.
– Best Seasons: April-May, September-October
Trip Overview
The journey navigates nine significant passes in the remote Dolpo region, including:
– Jungben La Pass (5,550m) — Highest pass with panoramic Himalayan views.
– Numa La Pass (5,309m), Baga La Pass (5,169m), and Neng La Pass (5,368m) — Stunning viewpoints of mountain ranges and valleys.
The trek also offers a unique opportunity to experience the Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s deepest high-altitude lake, known for its vivid aquamarine waters and surrounding waterfalls. Key cultural sites include Dho Tarap, one of the highest settlements, and Shey Gompa, an ancient monastery from the 11th century.
Key Attractions
– Scenery: Majestic landscapes, high-altitude lakes, deep valleys, and diverse flora and fauna within the Annapurna Conservation Area and Shey Phoksundo National Park.
– Wildlife: Endangered species like the snow leopard, blue sheep, and Himalayan tahr.
– Cultural Sites: The Buddhist culture at Dho Tarap, and the historical Shey Gompa.
– Local Experience: Enjoy local cuisines and stay in teahouses, supporting the region’s economy.
The Upper Dolpo Trek from Mustang promises an unparalleled adventure, but it is suited for experienced trekkers due to its demanding paths and limited facilities in this isolated region.
Here’s a unique breakdown of the challenging yet mesmerizing 26-day Upper Dolpo Trek from Mustang to Juphal:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
– Highlights: Initial briefing on the journey ahead, permits, and sightseeing of Kathmandu’s ancient sites.
– Activities: Gear checks and introductions to the team.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Jomsom
– Highlights: A scenic flight to Jomsom, a quaint village that is the gateway to Mustang.
– Activities: Preparation for the trek, exploring Jomsom’s unique Tibetan culture.
Day 3: Jomsom to Kagbeni
– Highlights: Trek along the Kali Gandaki River to Kagbeni, the mystical “Forbidden Kingdom” gate.
– Activities: Pass traditional monasteries, marvel at views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri.
Day 4: Kagbeni to Chele
– Highlights: Enter the restricted region of Upper Mustang.
– Activities: Trek through wind-carved landscapes, stone villages, and cliffs painted in earth tones.
Day 5: Chele to Ghami
– Highlights: Begin the ascent towards higher altitudes.
– Activities: Trek through high ridges, winding trails, and visit ancient monasteries.
Day 6: Ghami to Tsarang
– Highlights: Experience the traditional Tibetan-influenced culture of Mustang.
– Activities: Trek through Tsarang’s renowned white dzong (fortress) and red gompa (monastery).
Day 7: Tsarang to Lo Manthang
– Highlights: Reach the fabled city of Lo Manthang, a medieval fortress town.
– Activities: Rest day to acclimatize and explore the intricacies of Lo Manthang.
Day 8: Lo Manthang Exploration Day
– Highlights: Visit the king’s palace and ancient temples.
– Activities: Discover the area’s rich history, culture, and art, and trek to nearby Chhoser caves.
Day 9: Lo Manthang to Yara
– Highlights: Enter more remote and rugged landscapes.
– Activities: Trek through arid terrain with views of towering cliffs and the Kali Gandaki River.
Day 10: Yara to Tangge
– Highlights: Traverse one of the most challenging sections of the trek.
– Activities: Trek across high passes, descend to Tangge, a hidden valley village.
Day 11: Tangge to Chharka Bhot
– Highlights: Cross into the isolated wilderness of Upper Dolpo.
– Activities: Begin the strenuous climb and camp along the route.
Day 12: Chharka Bhot to Sangda La Base Camp
– Highlights: Prepare for high-pass crossings and marvel at expansive mountain views.
– Activities: Camp at the base camp, enjoying the stillness and raw beauty of the highlands.
Day 13: Cross Sangda La Pass to Shey Gompa
– Highlights: Conquer Sangda La Pass (5,200m) and arrive at Shey Gompa.
– Activities: Visit Shey Gompa, known as the “Crystal Monastery.”
Day 14: Rest and Acclimatization at Shey Gompa
– Highlights: An important rest day for acclimatization.
– Activities: Explore the serene surroundings of Shey Phoksundo National Park.
Day 15: Shey Gompa to Namgung
– Highlights: Cross over a challenging pass to reach Namgung.
– Activities: Explore ancient Tibetan-style villages and settlements.
Day 16: Namgung to Saldang
– Highlights: Experience the culture of Dolpo’s largest village.
– Activities: Visit monasteries and mingle with locals in the high-altitude village of Saldang.
Day 17: Saldang to Yangze Gompa
– Highlights: Trek to a secluded gompa, hidden from the main trail.
– Activities: Discover lesser-known Dolpo monasteries rich in history and artifacts.
Day 18: Yangze Gompa to Dho Tarap
– Highlights: Follow trails used by local herders to Dho Tarap.
– Activities: Camp in Dho Tarap, a village at 4,000m known for ancient Buddhist practices.
Day 19: Rest Day in Dho Tarap
– Highlights: Another rest day to acclimatize and soak in local culture.
– Activities: Explore the valley, monasteries, and gain insight into local customs.
Day 20: Dho Tarap to Tokyu
– Highlights: Trek down the rugged trails and past yak pastures.
– Activities: Descend into green valleys with sporadic villages and camp in Tokyu.
Day 21: Tokyu to Kharka
– Highlights: A beautiful day of trekking with diverse landscapes.
– Activities: Hike across the wide-open valley with fewer trees, lush meadows, and streams.
Day 22: Kharka to Juphal
– Highlights: Final day of trekking as you descend to Juphal.
– Activities: Camp at Juphal, the final village stop in the Dolpo region.
Day 23: Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj
– Highlights: A breathtaking flight from Juphal over Dolpo’s rugged terrain.
– Activities: Arrive in Nepalgunj for rest and celebration of completing the trek.
Day 24: Nepalgunj to Kathmandu
– Highlights: Return flight to Kathmandu.
– Activities: Spend a leisure day in Kathmandu, reflecting on the trek’s unforgettable experiences.
Day 25: Free Day in Kathmandu
– Highlights: Day to explore Kathmandu or relax.
– Activities: Option to visit more heritage sites, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a relaxing massage.
Day 26: Departure from Kathmandu
– Highlights: End of an epic adventure through Upper Dolpo.
– Activities: Airport transfer and farewell to the team.