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Upper Dolpo Upper Mustang Trek 31 days.


Overview The Upper Dolpo Upper Mustang trek is an epic 31-day adventure that combines the remote and mystical regions of Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang in Nepal. This extraordinary journey also takes you through rugged landscapes, ancient villages, and high mountain passes, providing a unique opportunity to explore two of the most culturally rich and historically significant regions in the Himalayas. Two long lost territories of highland Nepal, Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang; Dolpo where the Bon and Tibetan Buddhism prospered side and side and also the place which houses Nepal’s one of the most fascinating landscapes and Mustang the…

Overview

The Upper Dolpo Upper Mustang trek is an epic 31-day adventure that combines the remote and mystical regions of Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang in Nepal. This extraordinary journey also takes you through rugged landscapes, ancient villages, and high mountain passes, providing a unique opportunity to explore two of the most culturally rich and historically significant regions in the Himalayas.

Two long lost territories of highland Nepal, Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang; Dolpo where the Bon and Tibetan Buddhism prospered side and side and also the place which houses Nepal’s one of the most fascinating landscapes and Mustang the forbidden kingdom which holds the prosperous history of Lobas and witnessed the culture of sky cemeteries long long ago.

The Upper Dolpo Upper Mustang trek is also a true odyssey that combines adventure, culture, and natural wonders, leaving you with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the rugged beauty and rich heritage of these remarkable regions.

Along the trail, you’ll also have the opportunity to interact with the warm and friendly locals who have preserved their unique traditions and lifestyle for centuries. The trek offers a glimpse into their daily lives, as you visit traditional villages and witness age-old rituals and festivals.

The Upper Dolpo Upper Mustang Trek is a challenging adventure, as you’ll be trekking at high altitudes, often exceeding 5,000 meters. The trek requires good physical fitness and acclimatization to the altitude. However, the rewards are immense. The solitude and tranquility of the remote landscapes, the cultural richness, and the sense of accomplishment will make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Conclusion and Summary

In conclusion, the Upper Dolpo Upper Mustang Trek is an extraordinary journey that takes you through some of the most remote and enchanting regions of Nepal. From the rugged beauty of Upper Dolpo to the ancient heritage of Upper Mustang.  This trek offers an unforgettable blend of natural wonders and cultural exploration. Embark on this adventure, and you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.

Trip Highlights


 

  • Remote and Mystical Landscapes: The Upper Dolpo Upper Mustang trek offers the opportunity to explore remote and mystical landscapes that are untouched by modern development. From the rugged beauty of Upper Dolpo to the unique terrain of Upper Mustang, every step of the journey unveils breathtaking natural vistas.
  • Cultural Immersion: The trek allows for a deep cultural immersion experience as you visit ancient Buddhist monasteries, interact with local communities, and witness traditional rituals and practices. The rich cultural heritage of both Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang provides a fascinating insight into the region’s history and traditions.
  • Ancient Kingdom of Upper Mustang: Upper Mustang, often referred to as the “Forbidden Kingdom,” offers a unique glimpse into a bygone era. The ancient capital of Lo Manthang, with its distinctive Tibetan-influenced architecture and whitewashed villages, transports you back in time and provides a truly enchanting experience.
  • High Mountain Passes: The trek includes traversing high mountain passes, such as the challenging Kang La Pass. These passes offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, rewarding you with a sense of accomplishment and the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring grandeur of the mountains.
  • Wildlife and Nature: The region is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. While trekking, you may have the chance to spot rare wildlife species, including the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan blue sheep, and a variety of bird species. The unique landscapes and pristine natural beauty make for a captivating journey.
  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure: The Upper Dolpo Upper Mustang trek takes you to remote and less-explored regions of Nepal. Away from the crowds, you can experience the serenity and tranquility of the Himalayan wilderness, making it an ideal adventure for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
  • Challenging Trekking Routes: The trek is physically demanding, with high altitude treks and challenging terrains. It requires good fitness, stamina, and acclimatization to the high altitudes. Overcoming these challenges adds to the sense of achievement and adventure.
  • Cultural Contrasts: The trek allows you to witness the contrasting cultural influences of Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang. From the ancient Bonpo traditions in Upper Dolpo to the Tibetan Buddhist heritage in Upper Mustang, experiencing the diverse cultural tapestry is a truly enriching aspect of the journey.
  • Natural Wonders: The trek offers a plethora of natural wonders, including pristine rivers, cascading waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and unique rock formations. The ever-changing landscapes provide a feast for the eyes and create an awe-inspiring backdrop throughout the journey.
  • Personal Transformation: The Upper Dolpo Upper Mustang trek is not only an adventure for the body but also for the mind and spirit. The journey through these mystical lands has the potential to bring about personal transformation, leaving you with a deep appreciation for nature, culture, and the indomitable human spirit.

Itinerary Expand All


We take Kathmandu to Nepalgunj 1hr Flight in the late afternoon as far as possible. Nepalgunj is the business centre for the mid and western region of Nepal.

 

Morning flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2475m) takes nearly
35min. The flight will be enjoyable if the weather is clear you can have a good mountain sightseeing. After landing in the Juphal airport starts the trek to Dunai. It takes nearly 3hrs. Dunai is the headquarter of the district and we make the final packing for the whole trip.

The trail enters to the Shey Phoksundo National Park after passing Sulighat the entrance of the park area.
The trail goes within the Shey Phoksundo National Park will be pleasant and enjoyable. The trail passes through the wood and small streams.
One can enjoy the bird watching also within this area. We pass through some winter migration places, where the people migrate for the winter.

Today the first section of the trail will be through the jungle with slight ascends. There are several streams that make the walk refreshing. When we reach Sumduwa then the trail goes more or less straight. We can see a school on the way the school is providing education to all the villages of around Phoksundo.

Today the trail goes ascending towards the ridge. We can observe the beautiful lake from different angles while going through this trail. There is a view point also on the ridge from where we can observe the Phoksundo water fall. Then the trail goes descending towards the lake through the wood of silver birtch.

Today we explore the area around Ringmo Village and the magnificent Phoksundo Lake. First, we explore around Ringmo Village and head to Tshowa (the lake-shore Bon Monastery).
The Gompa nestling a ridge top above Phoksundo Lake was built about 900 years ago. Exploring this culturally rich Bon Monastery is fascinating experience. Then we drop down to Phoksundo Lake along steep-sided cliffs.
The lake is famous for its magnificent turquoise colour and spectacular scenery. Ringmo village, a typical Tibetan village, is scenic view from Phoksundo Lake. There are several monasteries (Gompas ) and Bon-po religious sites at the park and we spend our time visiting some of these.

Today’s trek is probably one of the best trekking days of Dolpo to Mustang Trek. It climbs along the narrow trail cut on a cliff standing vertically straight above Phoksundo Lake.
This treacherously fascinating trail brings us to another side of Today’s trek is probably one of the best trekking days of Dolpo to Mustang Trek. It climbs along the narrow trail cut on a cliff standing vertically straight above Phoksundo Lake.
This treacherously fascinating trail brings us to another side of Phoksundo Lake. This particular part of the trek is like fantasy walk portrayed by a writer in their fiction novels.
To get to the Phoksundo Khola camp on other side of the lake, we slide down for ninety minutes along the beautiful forests. The final part of today’s trek slides up to the beautiful campsite at Sallaghari. Enjoy the night in the camps amongst beautiful pine forest.

As the trek begins we ascend up the narrow defile of Tuk Kyaksa River. The trail switches to opposite side of the river several times. Soon we arrive to a place where the rapids of the river are calmer. We cross the bridge over the river at that point.
Thirty minutes of walk after the bridge, we come across the wide valley followed by two hours of walk along the canyon brings us the potential campsite. A walk for a while further reaches to the massive rock slab, which is Kang La/Nangdala Base Camp- our campsite for the night.

Today we trek to the fabled Shey Gompa and the nearby ‘Crystal Mountain’, the most sacred peak in Dolpo which Dolpo pilgrims circumambulate each summer before the harvest. We are now entering the real Dolpo, and to enter into this mystical land we have to cross the Kangla/Nangdala pass .
The trek to the top of Kang La/Nangdala Pass is along the graveled trail uphill for three continuous hours. However, all the efforts put to come up to the top of the pass rewards us with wonderful views.
The eye feast views from the Kang La Pass includes Cyrstal Mountain, the mountains in Tibetan territory and the mesmerizing landscapes of Dolpo. We also have views of the peaks Shey Shikkar and Kang Chunne, both just over 6000 meters, before descending steeply down to the valley floor and along the river.
A red chorten marks the entrance to Shey. Every Dragon year according to the Tibetan calendar that comes in every 12 years there occurs a grand festival. People from different places and countries come to join this festival. We camp for the night.

Today we will explore Shey Gompa. It is said to be about 800 years old monastery, with murals inside and an ancient scroll describing the mythology behind the Crystal Mountain. The monastery is locally known as Shelri Sumdho Gompa.
Shey Festival, the summer festival observed by the people of Dolpo with huge enthusiasm is hosted at Shey Gompa. Peter Mattheissen wrote quite a lot about his stay in Shey in ‘The Snow Leopard’, and it was shown in Eric Valli’s movie ‘Caravan’ as Thinley’s son’s gompa. After the exploration of Shey Gompa as the trek begins, it follows the trail beside Sephu Khola for almost couple of hours.
The landscapes during this part of the trek are typical Dolpo landscapes- barren and enchanting. Then we begin to climb up towards the top of Shey La Pass, which is almost two hours of hike. The acme of Shey La Pass west of Shey, rewards us with the magnificent views of Mustang to the East, Tibet to the North and Kanjiroba, Kagmara and Riu Dhukta, or the Crystal Mountain, to the West. The final push downhill from the pass, which is almost 2 hours of hike brings us to Namgung. We spend our night at Namgung, a local nomadic herding settlement

Before setting out towards Saldang, we explore the monastery of Namgung set on the flanking cliff. As the trek from Namgong Gompa begins we follow Namga Khola cross pass more summer herding spots and emerge out of spur for a short hike down to Saldang. Saldang is a beautiful village with lots of dry land surrounded hills. Amchi tradition and Buddhism in Dolpo thrives here at Saldang. We’ll get a chance to visit some local houses, drink some salt butter tea or chhyang (Tibetan barley beer) and sample the local fare at Saldang.

Today we will have a day hike after early breakfast to Yanjer the richest monastery of this region. We will have packed lunch and will come back to Saldang for the night stop after the exploration of the monastery.

Today we trek for six hours and reach the village of Komash. Initially, the trail follows the Saldang Lek along the Rapyha Khola to the barren hillside. Exiting out to the elevated ridge of almost 4500m, the trail descends down steeply to Komash Village a village which bears similarity to a Tibetan village. Overnight in tents at Komash.

As we trek from Komash village we may sight some endangered animals like snow leopard or Blue sheep. On the way we pass small villages. The landscapes in the vicinity is full of highland deserts with few shrub like vegetation. After almost five hours of comfortable hike we arrive to Shimen. Overnight in the tented camps at Shimen.

Today the trail goes by the side of Panjyang Khola. There are some villages and gompas on the way to Tinje. Tinje is a very beautiful valley. There is a natural air strip where once a British aircraft had landed and taken off.

Leaving this beautiful valley the trail leads you to Rapka for the night camp.

From Rapka the next night stop will be in Chharka Crossing Chharka La / Mola pass – (5030m). Here you can observe the Bon Gompa too.

Today also the trail goes straight by the side river Tulshi. Chharka is the last village of Dolpo while going this route. The trail goes through open land. We will make the camp tonight at Tulshi Khola.

Again the trail goes by the side of the river in open space. We can see some rocks on the sideways. There will be several small trails so we need an experience person to find the right trail. The place where we can camp for tonight is Kyarkog (Yak Kharka).

Today also the trail is in the open land and can view rocks by the sides. The landscape is open and wide. We find several stone piles that shows the trail. At last we reach the high camp to settle down for the night. We can view some mountain peaks from this high camp.

Today we will have to cross the pass Chanagarla (Syap la) 5665m. After walking for two hours from high camp we reach this and crossing the pass we walk on the rocky trail till another pass for near about an hour. We can view the lake Tsopgo from this second pass. Then the trail slightly descending towards Tsopgo walking around three and half hour we reach the lake Tsopgo where we camp for the night.

Again following the rocky trail in the open we reach at a river and crossing the river the trail goes descending towards Kekyap Phedi. There are some pastures on the trail.

From Kekyap Phedi the trail goes uphill and the trail is rocky and cannot see any fixed trail. We should follow the stone piles to find the right trail. Still we need an experienced guide to find the path. After crossing Kekyap La (5600m) we reach the high camp for the night rest

From the high camp the trail descends where there are some yak kharkas on the way. At last we reach Lo Manthang capital of Mutang. Then onwards the trek can be done in teahouse basis too.

A free day in Lo-manthang is never more. The village with 150 houses is the home to many monks. While exploring the untouched territory since the 14th century, we explore four major temples of the fabled walled city.
Champak Leaking, one of the major temples comprises a huge clay statue of Buddha as well as the elaborated mandala paintings on the walls. The grand palace in the center of the town is the home of royals. Explore the town properly so that you wont miss any highlights of Upper Mustang.

Visit to the villages (Garphu, Dhuk, Barcha, Nenyul).

The trail from Lomanthang to Dhakmar is moderate with slight up and down. You can find some stupas on the way. You will reach Ghar Gompa from where you can see some villages like Marnag, Charng, etc.

The trail goes sometimes off the road and sometimes through road. We go through Ghami and will have the lunch at Jhaite and continue walking through some cluster of houses. We can observe some stupas on the way.

From Syangboche there two trails one goes through Chungsi cave and another one goes through the road. If you take the first trail then we can observe the cave. Then there are some cattle shades on the way and we will reach to Samar. We take our food at Samar again the trail divides in two. One goes towards Ghyakat and another one goes through the road then we reach Chele. After crossing the river we reach Chhuksang.

The walk to Jomsom via kagbeni will be enjoyable, you can get some teashops on the way.

We take Jomsom/Pokhara morning flight and same day afternoon flight to Kathmandu.

What's Included


  • Airport Pick-up and Drop Off,
  • Licensed and trained trekking guides,
  • potters for carrying goods and supplies,
  • Meal on full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) basis during the trek
  • 3 Nights Accommodation in the 3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu with B & B. (Bed & Breakfast) on Twin Sharing Basis.
  • All accommodation on Tent during the trek on sharing Basis.
  • All meals and hot beverages during the trek.
  • Transportation to and from trail head by Private and Sharing Transport
  • All necessary documents and permits for trekking (where applicable)
  • National Park/Conservation Area entry Permit, Insurance, and
    equipment for the staffs.
  • Coordination of quick Rescue service (Costs covered by your Insurance Plan)
  • Trekking staffs wages etc.
  • Welcome dinner in a Nepali Cultural Dance restaurant in Kathmandu.
  • Trekking Map, T-shirt, and Trekking certificate.
  • Exclusive of Medical Kit Bag
  • All Government and local Taxes
  • International Flight ticket re-confirmation.
  • Meals will be Start when your Trek starts.
  • Domestic Flights
  • Domestic Flights for Trekking Guide.
  • Trekking Staff Insurance of $10,000 Per Person.

What's Excluded


  • International Airfares,
  • Travel/Trekking Insurance,
  • Excess baggage charges More than 16kg and hand bag more than 5 kg in domestic flights.
  • Visa fees.
  • Airport Departure Taxes.
  • Drinks (Cold and Alcoholic) Rescue charge.
  • Tips for The staffs.
  • Expenses of Personnel nature and Permit and Liaison officer fee (where Applicable.
  • Meals during stay in the Kathmandu
  • Extra Domestic Ticket  of Jomsom, Pokhara etc.

Extra Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara

Trip Information


The adventure begins with a scenic flight to Juphal, the gateway to Upper Dolpo. From there, you’ll embark on a trek through pristine forests, deep valleys, and picturesque meadows. Upper Dolpo is known for its raw beauty and untouched landscapes, offering awe-inspiring views of snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear rivers.

As you trek through Upper Dolpo, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the Dolpo people. Visiting ancient Buddhist monasteries, interacting with local communities, and witnessing their rituals and way of life provides a deep cultural immersion experience.

The journey then takes you to Upper Mustang, a forbidden kingdom steeped in history and mythology. As you enter Upper Mustang, you’ll be greeted by its distinctive Tibetan-influenced architecture, whitewashed villages, and unique landscapes shaped by wind and erosion. Exploring the ancient capital of Lo Manthang, with its intricately carved monasteries and narrow alleys, feels like stepping back in time.

Throughout the trek, you’ll traverse high mountain passes, including the challenging Kang La Pass, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The trail winds through barren landscapes, arid valleys, and dramatic canyons, revealing the stark beauty of the trans-Himalayan region.

The Upper Dolpo Upper Mustang trek also provides opportunities for wildlife sightings, including the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan blue sheep, and various bird species. The region’s diverse flora and fauna add to the allure and excitement of the journey.

The trek is physically demanding, as you’ll be trekking at high altitudes and traversing challenging terrains. However, the rewards are immense, as you’ll be rewarded with unparalleled natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a sense of accomplishment.

This adventure offers a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, taking you to remote and less-explored regions of Nepal. It’s a journey that allows you to disconnect from the modern world and connect with the raw power and spirituality of the Himalayas.

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Trip Facts


Duration 31 Day(s)
Activities Trekking
Group Size 2 to 20
Best Season March to May, September to November
Start/End Point Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Difficulty Level Challenging
Max Altitude 5416M
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