Trekking In Upper Dolpo And Shey Gompa

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Upper Dolpo Trekking takes you to the mysterious highlands of far-west Nepal, beyond much lovedPhoksundo Lake and Shey

Upper Dolpo Trekoffers youthe wonders of the mystical land Dolpo.Ba-Yul, the hidden land of Dolpo, was first settled by Rokpa farmers and Drokpa nomads from Tibet in the 10th century. It is one of the highest inhabited places on earth, with scattered fortress-like villages and monasteries nestling amongst mountains of stark, ascetic beauty. Though part of Nepal today, Dolpo remains culturally and economically firmly tied to Tibet. The people of this desolate area are cut off from their southern neighbors by snow-covered passes for much of the year. Most of Dolpo is protected by SheyPhoksundo National Park, the home of magnificent Phoksundo Lake. It is bounded in the east and south by Dhaulagiri and ChurenHimal ranges and in the west by Jumla district. Although a few anthropologists and geographers had explored the region, the entire district was closed to foreigners until 1989.Peter Matthiessen’sSnow Leopard and David Snellgrove’s Himalayan Pilgrimage have contributed to the mystique and attraction of Dolpo. Both writers visited Shey Gompa, to the north of Phoksundo Lake, in inner Dolpo. This is the goal of most trekkers but Upper DolpoTrek will take you even further into the land’s wildernessand offers you to reak experience of “off the beaten trek”. So, Upper Dolpo Trekis more than Phoksundo Lake and Shey Gompa. Not just the mysteriously beautiful landscape, you can also explore the unique religion Bon-po, a shamanistic religion predating Tibetan Buddhism.

Outline Itinerary

  • Day 1 Arrive Kathmandu
  • Day 2 Sightseeing tour of Boudhanath, Pashupatinath & Patan
  • Day 3 Fly to Nepalganj
  • Day 4 Fly to Juphal [2475m] (45min Flight, Trek to Dunai [2140m] (6-7 Hrs)
  • Day 5 Trek to Chepka [2838m] (6-7 Hrs)
  • Day 6 Trek to Renje (6-7 Hrs)
  • Day 7 Trek to Ringmo [3733m] (6-7 Hrs)
  • Day 8 Rest and exploration
  • Day 9 Trek to Chunemba [4919m] (7-8 Hrs)
  • Day 10 Trek to Lar Tsa [3756m] (7-8 Hrs)
  • Day 11 Trek to Mendok Din (6-7 Hrs)
  • Day 12 Trek to Shey Gompa [4160m] (7-8 Hrs)
  • Day 13 Rest-Exploration
  • Day 14 Trek to Namgung [4430m] (6-7 Hrs)
  • Day 15 Trek to Karang [4284m] (6-7 Hrs)
  • Day 16 Trek to Mugaon (6-7 Hrs)
  • Day 17 Trek to Shimen Gaon [3870m] (6-7 Hrs)
  • Day 18 Trek to Tinje Gaon [4150m] (6-7 Hrs)
  • Day 19 Trek to Rakpa [4353m] (7-8 Hrs)
  • Day 20 Trek to Chharka Bhot [4110m] (7-8 Hrs)
  • Day 21 Trek to Norbulung [4750m] (7-8 Hrs)
  • Day 22 Sangda Phedi [4190m] (6-7 Hrs)
  • Day 23 Trek to Sangda [3710m] (6-7 Hrs)
  • Day 24 Trek to Dhagarjun [3080m] (6-7 Hrs)
  • Day 25 Trek to Jomsom [2720m] (3-4 Hrs)
  • Day 26 Fly to Pokhara and fly to Kathmandu
  • Day 27 Free Day in Kathmandu (as contingency for flight)
  • Day 28 Depart Kathmandu

PRICE:

Please send an email to sales@explorehimalaya.com for price.

PRICE INCLUDES:

  • Fully catered camping trek (FOT)
  • Kathmandu/Nepalgunj/Juphal airfares
  • Jomsom/Pokhara/Kathmanduairfares
  • English speaking local expert guide, porters during the Upper Dolpo trek (2 members=1 porter,1 porter carries 15kg total)
  • Shey-Phoksundo National Park Entry Fee
  • Dolpo Restricted Area Permit Fee
  • Trekkers' Information Management System fees (TIMS)
  • 4 nights accommodation at 3* Hotel in Kathmandu on twin sharing with breakfast
  • 1night accommodation in Nepalgunj on twin sharing with breakfast
  • 1 sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with English speaking local guide
  • Entrance fees to sightseeing monuments
  • Airport transfers and tour transfersin private vehicle (non-A/C)
  • Insurance for all staffs and porters
  • Equipment and clothing for all porters and staff
  • First aid kit bag (carried by guide)

PRICE EXCLUDES:

  • Nepal visa fees
  • International flight or any other airfares and airport taxes
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses like, communication, laundry, bar bills, internet, camera/mobile battery recharge, hot water/shower on trek, snacks while walking etc.)
  • Personal gears & clothing (available on hire)
  • Tips for guide, porters, drivers etc.
  • Client's insurance and medical expenses
  • Any expenses incurred in emergency evacuation/rescue due to any unforeseen reasons
  • Anything not mentioned under “Price Includes”

For more information, please contact us at enquiry@explorehimalaya.com

Detailed Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Arrival in Kathmandu

    It’s a panoramic thrill flying into Kathmandu on a clear day. The views of snow-capped mountain peaks sprawling down below you are almost ecstatic, beginning a whole chain of memorable experiences that stay with you for a long, long time. As your plane lands at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our waiting support team will meet and greet you at the arrivals and escort you to your hotel..

  • Day 2

    Sightseeing tour of Boudhanath, Pashupatinath & Patan

    Kathmandu is the historical and cultural heart of Nepal and has been a popular destination for tourists ever since Nepal opened its doors to visitors. The city presents a wonderful mix of Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism and Western influence. There will be a guided tour to UNESCO World Heritage Sites Boudhnath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and after that to Pashupatinath, the most popular Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. You take a tour to Patan also called as Lalitpur (the City of Artisans), which is 5km away from Kathmandu. You walk through Patan Durbar Square, and delight in the architectural wonders of Malla era. MahaboudhaTemple, Kumbeshwor Temple, Krishna Temple and Golden Temple are the major attractions at the square. .

  • Day 3

    Fly to Nepalganj (1 Hrs Flight)

    You fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, which lies in the southwest part of the Terai, right on the border to India. After checking into your hotel you might visit Bageshwari Mandir, a temple to honour Goddess Kali. Nepalgunj is known for its local bazaars, which have goods with cheap price rates. Here, not only do you see people from all over Nepal, but also people from Tibet and India who have come here for trade. .

  • Day 4

    Fly to Juphal [2500m](45min Flight), Trek to Dunai [2100m] (6-7 Hrs)

    You take an early morning flight to Juphal where the Upper Dolpo trek begins. Dolpo flights are always scheduled early in the morning. This is because high wind in the Thulo Bheri Valley begins around 10 am, making later flights impossible. Once you arrive at Juphal (2500m), you start out on a short walk from Juphal to Dunai. You walk downhill through meadows and past a few houses to the small hotels at Kala Gaura (2090m). From here you follow the river trail upstream to Dunai. You camp near Dunai and explore this bustling little hill town for the rest of the afternoon. .

  • Day 5

    Trek to Chepka [2670m] [6-7 hours, 770m ascent]

    You start trekking from Dunai, cross the big steel suspension bridge and turn west, following the trail past the hospital, and then it's a level walk along the bank of the Thulo Bheri to its confluence with the Suli Gaad at 2070m. You follow the new trail north up the east bank of the Suli Gaad to a collection of teashops run by locals. Another hour of walking takes us to Kal Rupi and then on to Raktang (2260m). You cross to the west bank and trek past numerous cattle sheds and horse pastures, over a ridge to the rough stone houses of Jyalhasa, a wintering spot for the people of Ringmo. You keep walking upstream to another bridge, cross it to the east bank, and make your way past some crude teashops and a bridge over a side stream, the Ankhe Khola, at 2460m. The trail moves up and down through grass and ferns to a trail junction. The fork is the old trail leading to the army and national park post at Ankhe, and on to the old trail that passes the villages of Rahagoan and Parela, high on the ridge above. These three villages have a strange name connection: Parela (parela means eye-lashes), Rahagoan (raha means eyebrow) and Ankhe (ankha is eye). The trail to Phoksundo Lake climbs over a ridge at 2710m then descends on a rocky path to Chepka (2670m), which consists of collection of interconnected shops and lodges. You camp here or at another good spot beside a huge rock in walnut grove about 20 minutes beyond Chepka. .

  • Day 6

    Trek to Renje [3010m] [5-6hours, 500m ascent, 320m descent]

    You continue on the new trail, which stays near the river, climbing over a small ridge ,then crossing to the west side to avoid a large ridge and returning to the east side an hour later near a national park camping ground. Alongside the river at 2900m, the trail becomes a collection of rocks and sticks forming a dyke along the river bank. The trail makes several more ups and downs through forests of firs and larches as it continues upstream to a bridge that leads the village of Renje on the opposite side of the river at 3010m. You camp at a good camp site here or another about five minutes further on. .

  • Day 7

    Trek to Ringmo [2650m] [6-7 hours, 880m ascent, 90m descent]

    You follow the Suli Gaad valley, which turns eastward and becomes even steeper and narrower. You then climb over a ridge and descends to a wooden bridge then continue along the ups and downs along the valley floor to the confluence of the Suli Gaad with the Pungmo Khola. From here the trail to Phoksundo Lake and Shey Gompa, major attraction of the Dolpo Trek, follows the west bank of the river. You climb through a forest of big cedar to a good camp site and then on to Palam (3710m), a winter settlement used by the people of Ringmo village. The houses are almost buried in the sandy soil. The entrance station for Shey Phoksundo National Park is at the south end of the village. After your park entrance ticket is examined, you may be subjected to a baggage inspection. You continue on the route, which switchbacks steeply on a sandy trail through open country to an elevation of 3300m, then you start up another steep set of dusty switchbacks to a ridge at 3780m. From the ridge there are distant views of a spectacular Suli Gaad waterfall - 200m high, the highest in Nepal. The trail makes a steep descent in birch forests to the upper reaches of the brilliantly clear, rushing waters of the Phoksundo Khola. Then you climb gently to Ringmo village, a picturesque settlement of flat-roofed stone houses with lots of mud -plastered chortens and maniwalls. Just below Ringmo, you cross a bridge and follow a trail north to the ranger station at Phoksundo Lake (3730m). You continue to the shores of the lake near the point where the Phoksundo Khola flows out of the lake. There are national park camping grounds on both sides of the river on the south-east shore of the lake. Park rules prohibit us from camping in other places. .

  • Day 8

    Rest and exploration

    A trail leads from the lakeside through juniper trees to the white Pal Sentan Thasoon Chholing gompa, an old Bon-po gompa overlooking the lake that is said to have been built 60 generations ago. There are five other private gompas in various houses of small monastic community near the lake. The insides of the temples contain ancient Buddhist paintings and statues, but the trappings also reflect the animistic elements of the Bon-po religion, so some of the shrines are reminiscent of an ancient witch's cavern. Whoever visits the places will be equally fascinated by the strange iconography and practice of the Bon-po religion. .

  • Day 9

    Trek to Chunemba [3630m] [5-6 hours, 570m ascent, 560m descent]

    From your campsite near Ringmo on the southern end of Phoksundo Lake, the trail contours on a rocky ledge as it skirts the western lip of the lake. In places it's precariously suspended on a gangway of wood supported on pegs driven into crevices in the rocks. As you cross a stream, look up at the glacier descending from the upper slopes of Kanjeralwa (6612m). You then climb to a crest at 4060m for a spectacular view of the lake with the snowy peaks of Sonam Kang in the background. The trail makes a step and dusty descent through birches and blue pines to the westernmost edge of the lake at 3630m where the Phoksundo Khola enters. The route now heads west, up along a wide valley. You follow an indistinct trail through thorn bushes and scrub trees, crisscrossing boggy marshes and tributaries of Phoksundo Khola. You camp in a forest of blue pines at Chunembaat 3630m. .

  • Day 10

    Trek to Lar Tsa [4120m] [4 - 5½ hours, 570m ascent, 80m descent]

    You begin the day along the level path that now heads north through a glacial valley. You then cross to the east bank of PhoksundoKhola. You follow the main valley for another hour to Kang Gompa. You climb steeply from Kang Gompa and stay on the grassy ridge. It's a long climb up the ridge past a few groves of birch trees. There are spectacular mountain views with Shey Shikar (6139m) and Kang Chunne (6443m) dominating the skyline to the west. You continue on a crest at 4200m then the route descends gently on a rocky trail to Lar Tsa, a camp site besides the river at 4120m. It's possible to continue walking, but you have now ascended more than 500m in a day and should spend the night at Lar Tsa for acclimatization. .

  • Day 11

    Trek to Mendok Din [4610m] [2-3 hours, 520m ascent, 130m descent]

    You cross a new bridge and climb to the top of a scree slope at 4490m, then make your way up a grassy ridge to a crest at 4640m. You contour and then drop gently into Mendok Ding (flower valley). You again climb alongside a stream to a campsite at 4610m. You are almost certain to spot a herd of blue sheep on the slopes above the camp. .

  • Day 12

    Trek to Shey Gompa [4390m] [7-8½ hours, 1040m ascent, 1240 descent]

    You continue on the route that follows the upper reaches of the PhoksundoKhola, then you turn north towards the peak of RiwoDrugdra (Crystal Mountain). There is a choice of trails here; you follow the more scenic pilgrim route across the Sehu La to the west of Crystal Mountain, making a kora (circumambulation) of this sacred peak. The Dolma trail turns north soon after camp while the pilgrim trail starts up a steep scree slope on the opposite side of a stream that flows from the north. After a long pull to Sehu La (also known as Mendok Ding La) at 5160m the trail descends a scree slope to a grassy meadow besides a stream valley and begins a series of long ascents and descends across ridges in and out of side valleys as it traverses around Crystal Mountain. After a steep, rough climb to a crest at 5010m and another at 4860m, you begin the descent to the Tar valley. Soon after the route reaches grassy slopes, a side trail leads to Tsakang, a gompa said to be 800years old perched dramatically on the side of a cliff. The final descent is on a wide trail to a campsite in a large meadow near a few huts of nomads at 4310, just below Shey gompa. .

  • Day 13

    Rest-Exploration

    Cross the river on a log bridge and climb past a big Chorten and a huge field of mani stones to the Shey gompa compound at 4390m. The gompa itself is not large, and there are no artifacts or paintings of note inside. Although the building is said to be 800 years old, the wall paintings are relatively recent, probably done in 1970s. The statues on the altar are of Guru Rinpoche, Sakyamuni and Milarepa. The gompa also houses an ancient Tibetan scroll that describes the myth of Crystal Mountain and Shey gompa. According to the inscription, there is a holy lake in a crater among the mountains that surrounds Shey. When a pilgrim makes nine circumambulations of this lake the water turns milky. A sip of this milk can enable a pilgrim to see Mt. Kailash in the distance. The ones, who don’t need a day of rest, can try to find this lake..

  • Day 14

    Trek to Namgung [4430m] [6-7½ hours, 1029m ascent, 900m descent]

    You trek east from Shey gompa and across the 5010m Shey La. Here you turn north and descend before climbing again to Namgung (4430m). .

  • Day 15

    Trek to Karang [4050m] [5-6 hours, 150m ascent, 530m descent]

    You traverse high above the Namgung Khola to Karang (4050m). It's also possible to descend to Saldang on the banks of the river, but this village is of little interest. .

  • Day 16

    Trek to Mugaon [4100m] [6-7½ hours, 490m ascent, 550m descent]

    You descend to TorakSumdo (3670m), the confluence of the Namgung and Polangkholas, and cross to the northern bank. You then climb to Yanger gompa at 3750m and trek along the river side valley. You camp at one of the campsites along the side of the stream at about 4100m before Mugaon. .

  • Day 17

    Trek to Shimen [4010m] [7-8½ hours, 1040 m ascent, 890m descent]

    You continue up the valley to Mugaon and climb towards the Mushi La at 5030m. Then you descend towards Shimen village. You end the day at a good campsite in pastures above the village at 4010m. .

  • Day 18

    Trek to Tinje [4150m] [7-8 hours, 550m ascent, 170m descent]

    You drop down to Shimen village at 3870m and make a long trek upriver through Pha (4090m) to Tinje (4150m). .

  • Day 19

    Trek to Rakpa [4530m] [7-8 hours, 550m ascent, 170m descent]

    You trek past the runway of mysterious Tinje airport to a trail junction at 4130m, where a high route leads to Tarap. You continue southward to a campsite on the banks of the river at Rakpa (4530m). .

  • Day 20

    We trek past the runway of mysterious Tinje airport to a trail junction at 4130m, where a high route leads to Tarap. We continue southward to a campsite on the banks of the river at Rakpa (4530m).

    You begin our day with a long climb to the Chharka La (4920m). You continue on the trail descending along the side of the valley, then make a big drop into a side valley at 4290m. You then make a long traverse down to the picturesque village of Chharka on the banks of Barbung Kola at 4120m. .

  • Day 21

    Trek to Norbulung [4750m] [6-7 hours, 820m ascent, 190m descent]

    Another climb to a crest at 4380m begins this day. You then descend again to a river. You follow the right fork southward, climbing in and out of side valleys on a rough trail. The valley narrows, you then emerge into a big meadow and climb to our campsite at Norbulung (4750m). .

  • Day 22

    Sangda Phedi [5460m] [7-8 hours, 790m ascent, 440m descent]

    You begin the day climbing to ayak pasture at MolumSumna (4860m) and on to a crest at 5130m. You then make a long traverse across meadows to the foot of the Sangda La, then a long, steep final climb to the pass at 5460m. Switchbacks descend down to our camp site by a stream at 5100m. .

  • Day 23

    Trek to Sangda [3700m] [7-8 hours, 460m ascent, 1860m descent]

    You climb to a lower Sangda La at 4990m, then descend through loose shale towards the village of SangdaGhunsa (4190m). You drop to the ChalungKhola, crossing it at 3750m, and then climb steeply up the opposite bank. A long high traverse leads to a cairn at 4090m, you then come to a set of steep switchbacks descents to a stream at 3580m. You do another climb to the compact settlement of Sangda, where you end a long day at 3700m. .

  • Day 24

    Trek to Dhagarjun [3290m] [7-8 hours, 970m ascent, 1380m descent]

    You ascend the hill behind Sangda and spend most of the day making a high traverse, crossing nine ridges to a final crest at 4280m. You then descend into the Kali Gandaki valley, traversing under high cliffs and descending to the large village of Dhagarjun (3290m)..

  • Day 25

    Trek to Jomsom [2670m], [3hours, 870m ascent, 690m descent]

    You climb to a ridge at 3360m and make a final descent on a challenging trail of loose rocks to Jomsom at 2670m. .

  • Day 26

    Fly Jomsom/Pokhara/Kathmandu

    You take an early flight from Jomsom to Pokhara - a fantastic way to round off the trek, flying right along the Kali Gandaki Gorge between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After 20 minutes flight from Jomsom, then you take a connecting flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Rest of the day in Kathmandu is free. You can either let go the strains of Upper Dolpo trek and enjoy the evening strolling down the street of Thamel or rest in the hotel..

  • Day 27

    Free Day in Kathmandu (contingency day)

    This is a contingency day in case of flight delays. If you have free time, you can let go the strains of trekking in the Himalaya. You can explore around the Heritage sites in the city, stroll down the streets of Thamel for local cultural experience, visit nearby monasteries, relax at a spa center or do some souvenir haunting in the local bazaar..

  • Day 28

    Depart Kathmandu

    Our Nepali support team will take you to the airport for your flight home. On the other hand, if you prefer to stay longer, you can go for short tours such as game drive at National parks, rafting, Tibet tours, mountain biking, etc. – ask us..

TRIP GRADE - Strenuous Trek
This is a long trek that goes far beyond the normal haunts of trekkers and tourists, to remote areas of the country where the landscapes are wild and untamed and where the local inhabitants have seen little change in their way of life for centuries- untouched corners of an increasingly crowded planet. It is physically challenging, likely to include unfavorable weather conditions and strenuous activities, such as, climbing/ scrambling across high passes.
TREK TYPE
Camping trek (no lodge available)
Includes: Guide, Porters, Cook, All meals and tents
ACCOMMODATION
Camping trek means sleeping in tents. On a camping trek, the tents provided are ‘Two men dome’ or ‘A’ shaped. Foam mattress with insulation underneath is provided for sleeping. Clients need to have their own sleeping bag. Bags or cloth packs are used as pillows. If you wish, you can bring your own ‘Air pillow’.
We have a pool of hotels in Kathmandu under 3 Star categories which we provide to clients in connection to this itinerary, unless it is mentioned otherwise or clients have a special choice. You can check on the description of such hotels through our website.

MEALS & DRINKING WATER
We provide three tasty, plentiful and nutritious meals daily with a variety of local and Western dishes. To start the day, breakfast consists of a choice of porridge, muesli and cereal followed by omelet, fried or scrambled eggs with chapattis or bread. Lunch is generally a selection of salad, cooked vegetable dishes, pasta and traditional breads.
After a long day on the trail, dinner is a hearty 3 course meal - soup, followed by a variety of vegetable, meat, rice and pasta dishes and completed with a simple dessert. Tea, coffee and hot chocolate are also provided at all meals. We use as much fresh produce as possible and special diets are regularly catered for. The leaders are able to maintain very tight controls on health and hygiene in the kitchen with respect to general cleanliness and food preparation and also within the group with respect to personal hygiene. This has allowed us to maintain remarkably high standards of health over many years of trek organization - and good health is vital to an enjoyable and successful trek and climb. All foods are well cooked and vegetables are treated by potassium permanganate or iodine. Boiled water is served for drinking. Antiseptic soaps and potassium or iodine treated water are provided for washing. Special dietary requirements can always be catered for.
LUGGAGE WHILE TREKKING

During trek your main luggage will be carried by porters. You simply carry a day pack with water bottle, camera, sun-screen, spare jacket, etc. - a small load that allows full enjoyment of the trek. A trek bag is ideal for your main luggage, plus a small lockable bag for travel clothes or anything that you do not need during trek which you can leave at hotel’s locker room/safe deposit box in Kathmandu for free of charge. Weight allowance at Nepal’s domestic airlines is 15 Kgs, excess weight is chargeable at USD 1 or more per Kilo depending on sectors.

GROUP LEADER AND CREW
We provide different options concerning leadership in order to match your requirements:
1) Western leader
2) Trained Nepali Trek leader (experienced and knowledgeable)
3) Sherpa Guide (handles the logistics and guides you and your team on the trek)
The Sherpa guide (commonly called Sirdar) will be accompanied by a crew of porters. On camping trek, there will be 2/3 porters for each members.

JOIN A GROUP OR PRIVATE TRIP
Our trips are available on both fixed departure and private basis. If you are looking for a group to join this trip please check our ‘2015/16 departures’ link for availability, dates and price. If you would like to travel independently, or with your friends, families & colleagues you are invited to choose any of the trips at your convenient timeframe for any number of people (minimum 1 & maximum 100 at a time).
If you want to do something that is not included in our trip list we are ready to tailor a trip to suit your exact requirements. In short, we will make every effort to get you on the trip you want, when you want.
GROUP SIZE ON FIXED DEPARTURE TRIP
If you opt to join our ‘fixed departure trip’, you are likely to be joining people from different countries of any age group except minors. The size of group varies, minimum no of persons required to operate a trip is 2 the maximum is 12 people.
PERSONAL EXPENSES
On this trek all meals will be provided. You only need money for table drinks (alcoholic/non alcoholic beverages), snacks while walking (a few smaller shops are available along the trail in some areas) tips, souvenirs, hot shower (available in some places).
Tips are appreciated by your support team after the trip. The amount depends on your budget and appreciation of their work. As a suggestion, we advise you to allocate 5 - 10% of the total tour cost as tips.
COMMUNICATION
While trekking you may not have an access to telephone facility for some days or weeks. However, en route there may be few places where telephone facilities may be available and likely to be working.
If it is crucial for you to keep in contact with your family or others, EXPLORE HIMALAYA can provide you a mobile satellite phone (rental charge on request).

TREKKING GEARS & EQUIPMENT
You will need walking boots, sleeping bag (4 seasons/ -20C rated), waterproof jacket and trousers, fleece jacket, warm hat and gloves, sunglasses, water bottle, sun-screen and day pack.

Comprehensive list of equipments will be provided once you book your trip or check CLOTHING AND

EQUIPMENT LIST LINK.

GEARS AVAILABLE IN KATHMANDU
It's not necessary to spend a lot of money buying extra equipment and clothing before your trip. Majority of these gears can be bought or hired at reasonable rates in Kathmandu. Explore Himalaya will thoroughly help you to buy or rent trekking gears in the outlets of Thamel, which sell or rent both international and local gears.

TYPICAL DAY ON TREK
Your typical day begins with a hot cup of tea brought to the tent at about 6 am, followed by a bowl of hot water for washing. After packing all your bags and having a good breakfast, we set off on the morning’s walk. All you need to carry is a small day pack containing water bottle, camera, sun cream, hat, rain jacket and a warm jumper, just in case. The porters will carry the rest of your gear for you. After walking for 3-4 hours, we stop for lunch at around midday. The afternoon’s walk is generally shorter and we arrive at camp in time for afternoon tea. The remainder of the afternoon can be spent exploring the nearby villages, doing a bit of washing or simply relaxing with a good book. On some days, we will arrive at camp by lunchtime and the entire afternoon will be free.

Dinner is usually served between 6 and 7 pm. After dinner, the evening will often be spent playing cards and talking with the crew, or perhaps even joining in some singing and dancing, before heading off to the tent for a well-earned sleep.

MEETING AND GREETING IN KATHMANDU

You need to pass on your International flight details to us for a “meeting and greeting” service at airport. You just pass on the Customs and come out of the Terminal building where you will see someone standing with a placard with either ‘Explore Himalaya’ or your name written on it. Our airport representative or tour officer will greet you and welcome you with a garland.

FLIGHT AND LAND TRANSFERS
First you fly to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu and then you take another short flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal. The starting point of the trek is Juphal. On your return, you shall fly from Jomsom to Pokhara. You can choose between flying or driving back from Pokhara to Kathmandu. We will arrange the transportation from your hotel to the airport (Kathmandu).
Note: There is a high probability of cancellation of flights operating between Nepalgunj and Juphal due to bad weather conditions. Hence, we advise you to keep at least one day extra in Kathmandu before your flight home.
CLIMATE AND BEST TIME TO GO
The best seasons to trek in the upper Dolpo region are Autumn (from mid-September till November end) and Spring (from the beginning of March until mid-May). Temperatures will drop considerably as you trek higher everyday. The nights are cold (between -10 C and 5C) but the days are sunny and hot (between 10C to 20C).The mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up during the afternoon, disappearing at night. Dolpo region being located in rain shadow area it may be possible to trek during monsoon but domestic flights are often disrupted by heavy monsoon cloud and rain.
March, April, October and November are the most popular and favored months for traveling. Please choose the time that is convenient for you.

PEOPLE AND CULTURE
Dolpo consists of an ethnic group called Bhotias (with Tibetan origins), Magar, and Gurung. The Dolpo-pa (people of Dolpo) are mongoloid featured people with unique cultural and social traditions. Apart from speaking Tibetan, they speak kaike language which is believed to exist only in Dolpo. They are engaged in farming, sheep herding and small scale business. Agriculture on a large scale is impossible because fertile land is scarce. Historically, the men of Dolpo were salt traders. They used to travel across the great Himalayas with their yaks, horses and zos to bring salt from Tibet.
Marriages in Dolpo are very relaxed in general. Pre-marital and extra-marital sex union is not prejudiced. All the brothers in a family marry a common wife. Marriages can be of any type; by arrangement, capture or elopement.
Their main festival is ‘Losar’ (Tibetan New Year), celebrated in the month of February. Another festival they generally celebrate is ‘Yul-lha’ ceremony which is a ritual to appease the Gods.

ITINERARY CHANGES
The itineraries for each trip should be taken as a guideline only. Depending on the prevailing situation, you can modify it to some extent after consulting with your guide. However, the date of trek completion should always coincide with the original itinerary.
You should keep in mind that this is an adventure trip into the remotest region, where many unforeseen events may contribute to the need for a change in itinerary. In such cases, we or your guide will suggest the best alternative depending on circumstances.

TREK DURATION
We ensure liability as per indicated itinerary and list of services. If the holiday is cut short or completed earlier than the projected period upon client’s wish, we shall not be responsible or make refund against unutilized days or services. Clients need to pay extra for Hotels/services incurred in Kathmandu or elsewhere in such cases.

VISA
All visitors except the Indian nationals must hold passport and valid visa. Visa can be obtained at the Nepalese diplomatic missions and consulates abroad. Visa is also issued at the entry points. It can be extended at the Department of Immigration, Kalikasthan, Kathmandu. Children under 10 years need not pay any visa fee. People willing to get entry Visa at the air port or any of the land entry points are required to fill a visa form with passport photograph. So, please download form from the link below (visa form) and get ready while you are passing through the immigration Point.

VISA APPLICATION FORM
Gratis visa for 30 days available only for tourists of SAARC countries
Multiple entry 15 days - US$ 25 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 30 days - US$ 40 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 90 days - US$ 100 or equivalent convertible currency
Tourist Visa Extension
* Visa extension fee for 15 days or less is US $ 30 or equivalent convertible currency and visa extension fee for more than 15 days is US$ 2 per day
* Tourist visa can be extended for a maximum period of 150 days in a single visa year (January – December).

HEALTH ISSUES
As vaccination requirements change frequently, we suggest you to consult your doctor at least 2 months prior to the beginning of your trip. We recommend protection against malaria, tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis and polio.
The main health consideration in high altitude is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). You may experience some mild symptoms initially, such as headache, lethargy, nausea and difficulty sleeping, but these should lessen within a few days. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), people take pills called ‘Diamox’. You can also use these pills after consulting with your doctor and purchase them in Kathmandu. For your safety, we also carry the ‘Portable Altitude Chamber’ or ‘Gamow Bag’. Our itinerary will allow your body to acclimatize properly and to handle the low oxygen rate.
For your service, we carry a medical kit with standard prescribed medicines along with a users’ manual which you can use upon your own risk. We do not take any medical liability since our staffs are not qualified to prescribe medicines.
If you have ever suffered from altitude sickness, or have a heart or breathing complaint, we highly recommend you consult your doctor about your suitability for trekking in high altitude area before booking. We suggest that you take some pain-killing pills with you and enough medicine for cold, diarrhea, nausea and fever. Some nasal ointment and throat-moistening pills will greatly be of help for those who are sensitive to chilly or freezing weather conditions.

RESCUE / EVACUATIONS
In case of a serious sickness or a casualty, which we believe will not happen; we will do everything to transfer you to the nearest hospital. Since you are entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in evacuation please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before assigning for it or be prepared to pay on your own after getting back to Kathmandu.

INSURANCE
Before joining a tour, we recommend you to take a travel insurance which should cover cancellation, medical expenses, helicopter evacuation and emergency repatriation.

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
Wonderful environment of the Himalayas is also an extremely fragile one. Increasing population density and numbers of trekkers threaten the very beauty of Nepal. At Explore Himalaya, we are extremely conscious about the environment and aim to minimize our impact as much as possible.
As deforestation is one of the greatest environmental threats, we do not have camp fires and use kerosene for cooking as an alternative fuel to wood. We also discourage trekkers from using wood-fuelled hot showers in lodges along the way. Many lodges, however, now provide solar hot showers, a far more eco-friendly alternative.
Garbage disposal is another major problem and some of the busier trails can, at times, appear strew with litter. Our staff members are well motivated towards eco-friendly practices. We carry out all our garbage, apart from that which can be safely and easily burnt at the campsite. Our aim is to help protect and preserve this beautiful environment for future generations of trekkers to enjoy.

TRIP EXTENSIONS
In addition to your trek, we can organize extensions both within Nepal and other neighboring countries. You may want to try water rafting or a jungle safari in Nepal or Nepal Cultural Tour. You may as well take a trip to Tibet, India or Bhutan, whichever appeals more to you.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Explore Himalaya works with the motto ‘Development through Tourism’. Keeping in line with this motto, Explore Himalaya Community Service Project (EHCSP) was conceived to empower underprivileged, marginalized, poor and minority segments of Nepal.
Since its inception, EHCSP has been incessantly facilitating and advocating for school education, health, community development, forest conservation, agriculture, culture preservation and fund raising. Explore Himalaya encourages its clients to contribute for the development of Nepal.

CARE FOR PORTERS AND STAFF
We ensure that all the porters and other staffs going into high altitude conditions are provided with adequate clothing and equipment. We are the first ever company to supply high-altitude porters with crampons.

We run the trek according to the guidelines of the International Porter Protection group (IPPG - www.ippg.net).

BOOKING CONDITIONS
1) It is fundamental you acknowledge that this is an adventure tour. This requires some flexibility. The day to day itinerary is taken only as a guideline. We can not be held responsible for any delays caused by International or domestic flights, strikes, Government regulations, weather or natural casualties etc. In such cases, Explore Himalaya shall provide suitable alternatives which could be decided upon mutual agreement. If an agreement cannot be made, Explore Himalaya shall only be responsible for refunds after deducting the expenses already incurred.
2) Your booking will be confirmed by email once we receive your deposit of USD 500 and the signed copy of booking form and contract.
The balance is due no later than two months prior to departure. If you book a tour less than 2 months prior to departure, you must send the full payment within 7 days of confirmation by us.
3) If you cancel, the following scale of charges will apply:
2 months before departure – Loss of deposit (US$ 500)
29 days to 2 months before departure – 30% of total trip cost
10 to 28 days before departure – 60% of total trip cost
Less than 10 days before departure – 100% of total trip cost

BOOKING PROCEDURE
If you still have any questions regarding this trip, please feel free to contact us. We answer all enquiries within 24 hours. If you want to book a trip, you can e-mail us at enquiry@explorehimalaya.com or contact us directly by phone: 977-1-4418100.

Testimonials

Great trek, very well organized. Very interesting trek because of the geographical and cultural characteristics of Upper Dolpo. It is also quite challenging because of its length and remoteness. Having done a number of other treks in Nepal and elsewhere I decided to take up the challenge. Crossing Kang La was special. Support staff were faultless. They were very strong, experienced, helpful and know the area very well. See pictures and interview in our blog.

- Piotr Zycki, Poland
Upper Dolpo Trek
Shey Phoksundo Lake
Upper Dolpo Trek

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Happy Explorers

Crossing Kang La was special. Support staff were faultless. They were very strong, experienced, helpful and know the area very well. Great trek, very well organized.

- Piotr Zycki, Poland Read Testimonials | Submit Your Testimonial

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Community Service

We work with the motto "Tourism for Development". Explore Himalaya Community Service Project was conceived to empower underprivileged segments of Nepal.

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