Essentials Guide and Tips for Upper Dolpo Treks

Essentials Guide and Tips for Upper Dolpo Treks

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Trekking to Upper Dolpo offers you one of the most daring and fascinating trails that lie between the Dhaulagiri mountain and the Plateau of Tibet. This trek allows trekking enthusiasts to immerse in stunning landscapes and discover a place that’s still relatively untouched. This off-the-beaten-path adventure is so special that you will never forget it your lifetime because it is something out of the ordinary.

If you’re heading for this adventure, we would like to present this brief guide and tips for Upper Dolpo trek which will help you to make your trip more smooth and successful.

Understanding Upper Dolpo

Geographic Overview

Upper Dolpo is situated in the mid-western development region of Nepal and is situated in the Shey Phoksundo Conservation Area. About 90 % of the overall trekking place is situated above 3000m high altitude and the main highlights of this trek is the Phoksundo Lake and Peak and the wild animals such as Musk Deer, Snow Leopards, Blue sheep, etc.

The Upper Dolpo region is not densely populated; several small settlements with an irregular distribution are located in the region. It is famous for authentic Tibetan Buddhism and ancient culture.

How to Get to Upper Dolpo?

By Flight: The most popular and the best way to reach the starting point of the Dolpo trek is by taking a domestic flight. First you will take a 1-hour flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and spend the night in Nepalgunj. Then on the next day you will take an early morning flight of 45 minutes from Nepalgunj to Juphal.

By Road: By road you have an option either to hire a private vehicle or take a bus from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. From Nepalgunj, you can catch another vehicle to Rimna (Jajarkot). Finally, from Rimna you need to take a small vehicle to reach Talubagar.

Best Time to Trek

Although trekking the Upper Dopo is possible in the month of the spring, autumn and even in monsoon season. However, trekking in the month of  April to mid-November is considered as the best due to favorable weather and temperature conditions. During this months trekkers will experience the best view of beautiful landscape, mountain peaks and serene lakes that reflect the stunning surroundings. 

Note: We highly discourage you to trek in the winter season due to adverse weather conditions and safety reasons. Cold temperature, heavy snowfall, and unpredictable weather makes the trekking conditions more challenging and potentially hazardous.

The Difficulty of Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo is considered as one of the most remote treks in Nepal and due to long duration and challenging terrain conditions it is quite challenging to undertake especially for the beginners.  

Trekkers need to have strong legs and high determination with a strong mentality to overcome the challenge and difficulties that may arise during the trek. The beauty of the trek lies in the challenge it presents so get ready and prepare enough for the adventure ahead. 

Essential Preparations for Your Trek

Physical Fitness

Before undertaking the Upper Dolpo trek, trekkers need to be in good physical shape, have a strong mindset and make sure their health conditions are perfect for trekking. The more you prepare the more you will enjoy the journey as it reduces the challenge and discomfort. 

At least 3-4 months in advance start doing regular cardio exercises, high altitude hiking, and strength training. You can also join gym, yoga and meditation to enhance your fitness level.

Permits and Regulations

The permits that are required for the Upper Dolpo Trek are the Restricted Area Permit and the Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit. These special permits are arranged only by the local trekking agencies of Nepal. So you can get assistance through them and they will help you with the necessary paperwork and make sure you follow all the local rules strictly while trekking in the restricted area of the Dolpo Region.

Choosing the Right Trekking Agency

Trekkers need to keep in mind that while trekking in the restricted areas of Nepal like Upper Dolpo they should hire the licensed Guide with them and must be in a group of minimum 2 people. So while looking for the trekking agency make sure you choose a reputable trekking agency that provides local guides, porters, transportation, meal, accommodation, logistic support and prioritizes your safety.

Essential Gear and Supplies

Clothing

Layered Clothing: When packing, make sure to include clothing that can adapt to all weather conditions, such as thermal base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers.

Footwear: Invest in good quality trekking boots. Also pack some thermal and woolen socks

Accessories: Pack all the accessories like sunglasses, sunblock, toiletries items, electronic items as well as miscellaneous items and first aid items.

Camping and Trekking Equipment

Backpack: A durable, comfortable backpack with a capacity of 50-70 liters will suffice for multi-day treks

Sleeping Bag: You need to carry a good quality sleeping bag. If you want you can rent here in Nepal as well 

Trekking Poles: It will help you to maintain stability and reduce strain on your knees during the uphill and downhill.

Food and Water

Hydration: Staying hydrated is important throughout the trek to remain healthy and to reduce altitude sickness. You can also buy bottled water but we suggest you carry the reusable water bottle and purification tablets.

Snacks: To energize during the trek you can buy some energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits

Cultural Etiquette

Local people of Dolpo have their own unique culture, traditions, rituals, festival, costume and lifestyle. So while visiting this place make sure to show some respect to people living in this region. Ask your trekking guide about the local customs and any things you should or shouldn’t do to make sure you’re being considerate.

Health and Safety Tips

Acclimatization

Proper acclimatization not only helps to prevent altitude sickness but also helps to improve safety and enhance performance during the trek. Always follow the standard itinerary, don't skip the acclimatization day and monitor your health all the time especially at the higher altitude.

Insurance

While trekking in the remote region having insurance is necessary as it acts as a protective layer. Before purchasing the insurance read all the terms and conditions and be sure that it covers all the risks including emergency helicopter evacuation. 

Communication

Communication can be challenging from remote areas so we suggest you purchase local Sim NCELL. For the emergency situation your trekking guide will have satellite emergency telephone

Final Thoughts

The Upper Dolpo trek is perhaps one of the least explored trekking destinations in comparison to other trekking destinations in Nepal. But the beauty of this trek is matchless. Still unspoiled and constantly presenting its valuable culture along with an peaceful environment this trek is a must visit destination once in your lifetime.

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