Trekking in Nepal's far western Upper Dolpo province takes tourists into one of the most isolated regions of the grand Himalaya. A trip to Dolpo can be demanding as the sightseeing infrastructure is nearly non-existent, and re-formed trips are vital. But the rewards you get worth the adventure. From Tibetan Buddhist culture to some of the oldest monasteries in Nepal and the exceptional Lake Phoksundo – there is a real sense of being in the wilderness on an Upper Dolpo trekking voyage.
Overview of Upper Dolpo Trekking adventure:
Hiking in the Dolpo region of Nepal lets travelers to explore the splendor of Nepal's rugged & remote far-west. The western area of the province is home to She-Phoksundo National Park, which is Nepal's biggest.
Apart from being isolated, Upper is also rather poor. Tourism infrastructure in isn't what it's in most of Nepal, and it's essential to camp & take your own food. Permits are costly, and you can't hike in Upper solely.
However, the high passes & peaks, deep valleys, the 800 year-old Shey Monastery, the turquoise Lake Phoksundo and some endangered wildlife encompassing the unidentifiable snow leopard – reward bold hikers who come here.
Permit and regulations:
Upper Dolpo permits are costly & strictly needed. You also require to buy a permit for Lower , which you pass through on your way to Upper. Apart from that, just 250 outsiders are allowed to get into Upper every year.
- Lower Dolpo: $10 USD per week
- Upper Dolpo: $50 USD per day (10-day minimum)
There's also a Rs. 1000 entrance fee to the popular Shey-Phoksundo National Park. As it is compulsory to hike with a guide on an organized trip in Upper, your travel agency will organize all permits & these charges are usually incorporated in the entire expense of your trip.
Best season for Upper Dolpo Trekking:
Like most of Nepal, the ideal time to explore Upper is the spring season (April-May) & the fall season (October-November) when temperature remains pleasant, skies seems to be the clearest, and there's minimal possibility of snow at altitudes. Late-early snow can affect your trek in April & November, making few passes unfeasible to cross.
This isn't a beginner's trek or one to attempt if it is your first time in Nepal. But it'll be a worthwhile challenge for veteran trekkers & repeat visitors to Nepal alike!
Ghorepani Poon Hill trek and Mustang Nepal trek are the two alternatives of Upper Dolpo trek. If you are not keen for real adventure, you better try these alternatives.
Martin Wynn
