Your journey begins with a short scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a vibrant town in the western Terai near the Indian border. The flight provides sweeping aerial views of the Himalayas fading into the flat plains. Nepalgunj itself is a fascinating blend of Nepali and Indian culture, with bustling markets, temples, and diverse local communities. Upon arrival, you can explore the town or simply relax and prepare for the mountain journey ahead. Accommodation is arranged at a tea house, where your guide will also brief you on the trek.

After breakfast, take an early morning mountain flight to Jhupal, the gateway to Dolpo. From the plane, enjoy breathtaking views of snow-covered ridges and valleys opening into the remote Dolpo region. At Jhupal, meet your trekking crew and begin the trek through cultivated fields, terraced farmland, and small villages along the Thulo Bheri Valley. You’ll pass the traditional Roop Ghar water mill before reaching Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpo. Here, you can explore local monasteries and markets before settling into a tea house for the night.

Today’s trek follows the Phoksundo River valley, beginning with a steep climb out of Dunai. The trail undulates through pine and juniper forests and passes traditional Magar and Bon villages. Highlights include walnut groves in Dhera and the ancient Rahagaun Gompa dedicated to local mountain spirits. Further along, you descend into a shaded canyon and cross suspension bridges before reaching the small settlement of Ankhe. This area is the official entry to Shey Phoksundo National Park, making it rich in flora and fauna. Overnight camping near the river provides a peaceful setting.

The trail begins with a descent through forests, followed by a steady climb that rewards you with expansive views of the valleys below. Crossing wooden bridges and traversing narrow ridges, you’ll feel the terrain becoming more remote and rugged. At Sulighat, you enter deeper into Shey Phoksundo National Park, where permits are checked. This is the first official camping night of the trek, offering a wilderness atmosphere under starlit skies. With no nearby tea houses, meals are prepared by the trekking crew, giving you a taste of traditional Nepali trekking life.

Today’s trail gradually climbs along the Phoksundo River, passing through pine and cedar forests. You’ll cross the confluence of the Phoksundo and Pungmo rivers, then reach Nepal’s tallest waterfall Phoksundo Falls, thundering down into the valley. Continuing through traditional Tibetan-style villages, including the beautiful Ringmo with mani walls and chortens, you’ll arrive at the turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake. This sacred lake is one of the jewels of Dolpo, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and snowy peaks. Tonight, camp or stay in a tea house on the lakeshore, enjoying a stunning sunset.

A full day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization at this high-altitude paradise. You can explore Ringmo village, interact with locals, or visit the nearby monastery to learn about Bon and Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Many trekkers also enjoy a short hike along the cliffs above Phoksundo for panoramic views of the lake and Kanjirowa Himal. It’s a perfect day to relax, meditate, or even practice yoga in one of the most peaceful settings on the trek. Staying hydrated and eating well today will help you prepare for higher passes ahead.

The trail follows the eastern edge of Phoksundo Lake on a rugged path, with dramatic views of the turquoise waters below. After leaving the lake, the valley opens into alpine meadows where yaks graze peacefully. Crossing scattered boulder fields, you’ll continue beside the Phoksundo Khola, a glacial river. This remote valley is home to blue sheep and other high-altitude wildlife. Tonight, you’ll camp near the riverbank, surrounded by silence and the sound of rushing water.

Today’s route is more challenging, beginning with a narrow gorge and several river crossings. You’ll ascend steadily into a high valley surrounded by barren cliffs and snowy ridges. The final climb brings you onto alpine pastures dotted with wildflowers in summer. From here, Kang La Pass and surrounding peaks such as Chamlang become visible, hinting at the adventure ahead. Camping at Phoksundo Bhanjyang offers a remote and wild atmosphere, perfect for star-gazing.

This is one of the most demanding days as you cross Kang La Pass (5,350m / 17,552ft). The steep ascent is rewarded with breathtaking views over the Dolpo plateau and distant snow peaks. From the pass, colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind against a backdrop of Himalayan giants. The descent is initially steep before easing into a wide valley that leads to Shey Gompa, Dolpo’s most sacred monastery. Known as the “spiritual heart of Dolpo,” Shey Gompa is located near Crystal Mountain, a holy pilgrimage site. Tonight, camp near the monastery in this mystical setting.

Today is reserved for acclimatization and exploration around Shey Gompa, the most revered monastery in Dolpo. You can hike up to the base of Crystal Mountain, a sacred site glimmering with veins of quartz and often compared to Mount Kailash. Pilgrims come here during summer festivals to perform the kora (circumambulation). The monastery itself, built centuries ago, is steeped in myth and legend, believed to be founded after a battle with a fierce mountain spirit. Spending the night here allows you to absorb the spiritual energy of this remote sanctuary while preparing for the challenging trails ahead.

Leaving Shey Gompa, the trail climbs to a ridge that opens spectacular views of the Tibetan Plateau on one side and Mustang on the other. The landscapes are stark and dry, dotted with yak caravans and nomadic camps. Descending through high pastures, you’ll notice herders’ black yak-hair tents scattered across the fields. By afternoon, you’ll reach Namduna Gaon, home to another ancient monastery, Namduna Gompa, which sits perched above the village. Tonight’s camping ground is surrounded by fields of buckwheat and barley cultivated at these high elevations.

Today’s trek begins with a steep climb out of Namduna before contouring along barren ridges. From the top, the view reveals terraced fields and scattered houses spread across the slopes below. Descending gradually, you’ll reach Saldang, the largest settlement in Inner Dolpo. With five villages clustered across a broad slope, Saldang thrives as a trading hub between Tibet and Nepal. The vibrant community follows Tibetan Buddhism and Bon traditions, with colorful monasteries and prayer flags dotting the hillsides. This evening, camp in or near the village, experiencing one of Dolpo’s most culturally rich locations.

The trail follows the Nagon Khola (river), passing through small hamlets and windswept landscapes. Villages like Marang and Ki provide a glimpse into traditional Dolpo life, with barley fields and stone houses. Crossing the Panzang River, you approach Yangze Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in Dolpo, said to be over a thousand years old. Its large complex of chortens and prayer halls makes it a spiritual landmark of the region. Tonight, you’ll camp close to the monastery and may have the chance to join monks for evening prayers, a truly immersive cultural experience.

From Yangze, the trail retraces along the river before weaving through a string of remote gompas and small farming settlements. This area is rich in Tibetan Buddhist heritage, with prayer flags fluttering across the ridgelines. By afternoon, you’ll descend gently into the wide pastures near Sibu, where yak caravans often pass on their way to grazing grounds. Tonight’s camp is set by the river, offering a serene backdrop and clear skies for star-gazing. With the next major pass ahead, this is an ideal resting place before the climb to Jeng La Phedi.

The trail follows the river valley before gradually ascending toward the base of Jeng La Pass. As you gain altitude, the landscapes grow harsher, with rocky terrain and fewer signs of vegetation. Strong winds often sweep through this high basin, making the trek more demanding. Along the way, you may encounter nomadic yak herders who still follow traditional lifestyles. At Jeng La Phedi, your camp will be positioned below the pass, surrounded by towering ridges and glacial streams. Rest well tonight—tomorrow is one of the most memorable days of the journey.

An early start takes you up the steep trail to Jeng La Pass (5,150m / 16,896ft). From the top, prayer flags flutter against a backdrop of the Dhaulagiri Massif, glowing brilliantly in the morning light. The descent into the Tarap Valley is gradual, revealing vast plains where villages, gompas, and barley fields stretch for miles. This valley is one of the highest human settlements on earth, home to Tibetan-influenced Dolpo culture. You’ll camp at Tokyu Gaon, a village surrounded by chortens and monasteries, with a unique blend of ancient traditions and warm hospitality.

Today’s trek is relatively short and easy compared to previous days. Following the Tarap Chu River, you’ll pass terraced fields, stone walls, and grazing yaks before reaching Dho Tarap. This large village is famous as the filming location of Eric Valli’s movie Himalaya, which depicted the salt trade and Dolpo lifestyle. The settlement is unique for its mix of Bon and Buddhist communities, with two monasteries representing both faiths. Tonight, camp near the village and enjoy observing daily life in this culturally rich valley.

A full day is given for acclimatization and cultural exploration. In the morning, visit Bon Gompa outside the village, then explore the Buddhist monastery within. The contrast between the two traditions is fascinating, offering deep insight into Dolpo’s spiritual heritage. Walk through the narrow lanes of Dho Tarap, where locals in traditional dress work in their fields or spin prayer wheels. It’s also a chance to rest your body before continuing the journey through rugged valleys. Meals and camping tonight remain near the village.

Leaving Dho Tarap, the trail descends through a gorge decorated with wild rose bushes and junipers. As the valley narrows, the Tarap Chu River cuts deep into the canyon, creating dramatic cliffs on either side. You’ll cross suspension bridges and follow winding paths along the gorge. By evening, you’ll camp near Tarap Khola, surrounded by rushing river sounds and sheer rock walls. This is a remote, untouched stretch of the Dolpo landscape, with little sign of human settlement.

The gorge continues today, with the trail often carved into steep cliffs above the river. At times, stone steps or narrow paths make the route adventurous and thrilling. Eventually, the valley widens into more fertile ground as you approach Khani Gaon. This village is livelier than many previous stops, giving trekkers a chance to interact more with locals. Farming terraces and colorful prayer flags brighten the settlement, making it a welcome overnight camp.

Today’s trail follows the river, with suspension bridge crossings and some steep ascents and descents. You’ll approach Tarakot, an ancient fortress town that once served as the capital of this region. Near the village lies Sandul Gompa, a historic monastery overlooking the confluence of the Barbung and Tarap Chu rivers. Tarakot is greener and more cultivated than previous stops, with fields of millet, potatoes, and barley. Camping here allows you to soak in both the natural beauty and the historical importance of the area.

The trail from Tarakot follows the Bheri River, weaving through forested ridges and fertile farmland. The descent is steady, with small villages and suspension bridges adding charm to the walk. As you near Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpo, the valley opens into a wider plain. Here you’ll notice more modern facilities, small shops, and even electricity, which feels like a luxury after days in remote wilderness. Tonight, you can enjoy the comfort of a tea house and celebrate the nearing completion of your adventure.

Your final day on foot is a relatively short hike, but it involves a final uphill stretch to remind you that the Himalayas always demand effort. The trail passes through small farming terraces and ridges before descending gently into Jhupal, the gateway to Dolpo. This small town is where flights connect Dolpo to Nepalgunj and the outside world. Spend your last evening with the trekking crew, reflecting on the incredible journey through Dolpo’s hidden valleys and high passes. Depending on facilities, you may find WiFi or enjoy a celebratory drink.

Take a morning flight from Jhupal to Nepalgunj, retracing your journey from the mountains to the flat Terai. After a short layover, connect with a domestic flight to Kathmandu, where your trek officially concludes. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the comforts of city life—hot showers, good coffee, and cultural dining. This is the perfect time to celebrate your successful completion of the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek, one of the most remote and adventurous treks in Nepal.