Upper Dolpo Trek is a phenomenal adventure that offers unparalleled views of majestic Himalayan panoramas. The trek takes place in Dolpa district which is situated in Karnali Province of Nepal. This enthralling adventure passes through steep paths, hills, deep gorges and valleys. You will trek through the off-beat paths and explore the jewels of the region during this scenic journey.
The gratifying Upper Dolpo Trek presents spectacular views of mountains such as Mt Saipal, Api, Nilgiri and many others. This exhilarating journey traverses through Shey Phoksundo National Park, where animals like Blue Sheep, Himalayan Black Bear and Snow leopards can be spotted.
Upper Dolpo Trek begins with an exciting flight to Nepalgunj, from where you will catch another flight to the starting point of the trek, i.e., Juphal. Afterward, the trek takes you to enchanting destinations like Dunai, Ankhe and Renje.
During the Upper Dolpo Trek, you will cross the adventurous Kang la Pass (5,350 m). It is the highest point of the Trek. Similarly, you will also navigate the Sal Dang La Pass (5,100 m) and Jeng La Pass (5,090 m), which reward you with enriching and unforgettable experiences.
The major highlights of the trek are Phoksundo Lake, Phoksundo Khola, Phoksundo Bhanjyang and Shey Gompa. Other notable stops include Namduna Gaun, Saldong, Sibu, Tokyu Gaun, Dho Tarap, Serkam, Khani Gaun and Tarakot. There are several monasteries in the region that hold a deep historical importance. In addition, you will get to explore unique way of life, culture and traditions of Gurungs, Sherpas and Magars. Witnessing the authentic lifestyle and raw beauty of the region adds an extra touch of charm to this marvelous journey.
What Makes Upper Dolpo Trek Special?
Stunning Mountain Views
During the Upper Dolpo Trek, you can witness the magnificent mountain panoramas from different points of the trek. You will enjoy the marvelous views of iconic peaks such as Nilgiri, Api, Saipal and Tukuche. In addition, the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges are also seen during the journey which is amazing. You will get several opportunities to capture breathtaking snapshots of stunning mountain vistas during the journey.
Shey Phoksundo National Park
The Shey Phoksundo National Park was established in 1984. The area of the National Park is 3,555 square kilometers. Shey Phoksundo National Park is blessed with diverse flora and fauna.
Blue pine, hemlock, bamboo, rhododendrons, and silver fir are some examples of flora that are found in the national park. In addition, endangered species like jackal, musk deer, and Tibetan sheep can be spotted in this national park. Similarly, Shey Phoksundo National Park is also is home to 200 species of birds, such as Tibetan Partridge, wood accentor, yellow throated marten, etc.
Phoksundo Lake
Phoksundo is a beautiful alpine freshwater lake situated at an altitude of around 3,611.5 meters. The turquoise-blue reflective water has captured the attention of travelers worldwide. The pristine lake is surrounded by alluring snow-covered peaks and looks ethereal. The tranquility of the surroundings of the lake makes trekkers feel rejuvenated, enhancing their traveling experience.
Best time for Upper Dolpo Trek
Autumn and Spring
The ideal time for Upper Dolpo Trek is in Autumn (September, October and November) and Spring (March, April and May). During the autumn season, the temperature is milder, and you can trek in the most suitable weather conditions. The skies are clear and cloud free and uninterrupted views of pristine snow-clad peaks can be seen.
The climatic conditions are stable and there are no chances of trip obstruction because of any unexpected events which makes your whole journey delightful.
Similarly, during the spring season, the landscapes are beautiful and the weather is moderate. The tranquil forests of Dolpo are decorated with blooming flowers, which makes the whole atmosphere vibrant. Spring arrives after a cold winter season and brings warmth to the surroundings, allowing you to trek in the most pleasant environment. The clear skies treat you to the marvelous views of mountains, making your journey joyful.
Witnessing the stunning scenery is one of the major reasons why people embark on the journey, so it is highly recommended to trek in peak seasons (Autumn and Spring) to get the most perks while trekking.
Trekking Upper Dolpo in Off-Seasons
Summer/ Monsoon Season
In the summer/monsoon season (June, July and August) the trails can get slippery and muddy. When there is rainfall, traversing can be relatively difficult because of the muddy trail and extra caution should be taken in every step.
On clear days, the beautiful views of hills and snow capped peaks can be seen which will elevate your sightseeing experience. The sights of misty mountains are mesmerizing to witness during this time. However, in forested areas, there may be leeches because of the moist environment, which can create an unpleasant experience for trekkers. A good level of preparation and knowledge of weather patterns is required if you want to embark on the trek in the summer/monsoon months.
Winter Season
In winter (December, January and February), the ethereal beauty of enchanting landscapes can be seen as they are covered with snow. However, in the higher regions, the weather is extremely cold and handling the cold weather can be quite challenging for some trekkers. While the views of snowy terrains and mountains are unparalleled, you need to dress in layers and pack heavy warm clothes to protect yourself from the cold.
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