Upper Dolpo Trek is a wonderful off-beaten path trek in the central western part of Nepal. So, the trek is an isolated region and a mysterious wonderland of Nepal. Geographically, the trek is located behind the Dhaulagiri ranges and linked with Tibetan Plateau.
In terms of culture and natural attractions, the region is extremely beautiful with a handful of natural attractiveness, arts and architecture. Also, it has had a unique civilization and tradition since its primitive life. That’s why it gives travellers one of the best options for their destination to explore.
Trek Fee
Also, only a limited number of people can trek in the Dolpo region in a year because of the restriction zone. As of now, just a few trekkers have explored the trek. The Government of Nepal has controlled the region by levying special trek fees of US$ 500 per person for 10 days. A backpacker or individual traveller can’t travel individually without a guide or organized trekking agency. There is a provision for a minimum of 2 trekkers to join the trek and issue a trekking permit for trekkers.
Trek Highlights
The region’s main highlights are Phoksundo Lake, 800-year-old Shey Monastery, lush meadows, deep valleys, and views of Dhaulagiri. Similarly, the unique Tibetan culture and magnificent and rare wildlife, including snow leopard, are other highlights to the travellers.
This 24 -day trek is long and exhausting, but, on the contrary, it is inspiring. While walking, you will forget all your tiredness and exhaustion. It is due to impressive views of the Nepalese and Tibetan Himalayas ranges. Despite being the region bare and dry, it has fast-flowing rivers, gorgeous waterfalls, high passes, and deep river gorges. Equally and importantly, it has beautiful settlements with ancient art and architecture.
The largest national
Shey Phoksundo National Park is here protecting the habitats such as snow leopard, rare Himalayan Blue sheep, Himalayan Black Bear and Goral etc. Equally important is the unique Tibetan culture flashes within every settlement of Dolpo, which follows Tibetan Buddhism. Also, the Chortens, Mani walls and prayer flags are seen along the trail as a symbol of the local culture.
When to trek?
A question of “when is the best time for the Dolpo region trek” may arise in your mind. The answer is simple. Like other trekking routes in Nepal, the months of March through May and October through Autumn are good times for the trek.
However, as long as you have no timing constraints, you can do the Dolpo trek anytime. And suppose you are also very flexible in case of flight delay between Kathmandu and Juphal or vice versa. In that case, you can consider the trek during the monsoon period of any time between May – September.
Conclusion
Trekking to the Dolpo Region is much more challenging than other treks as the trails are mostly steep and descents are strenuous. Therefore, Trekkers require great physical strength, stamina and great willpower because the trail leads to three high passes, which are Nagdola La (5350m), Shey La (5000m) and Jeng La (5110m).
This trek is not for beginners but a once-a-lifetime experience for the pro-trekkers. It involves long climbs and exhausting descents.
