Cultural Upper Dolpo Trek

The Cultural Upper Dolpo Trek is a journey that takes trekkers through the remote and beautiful landscapes of Upper Dolpo, a region located in the western part of Nepal. The trek offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich culture and traditions of the local communities, as well as to witness the natural beauty of the region.

The trek starts from Juphal, a small village located in the Dolpa district. From there, trekkers will pass through several villages, including Dunai, Tarakot, and Dho Tarap, where they will have the chance to interact with the local people and learn about their way of life. Along the way, trekkers will also have the opportunity to visit ancient monasteries, such as the Shey Gompa and the Phosrang Gompa, and to observe the traditional Tibetan culture and Buddhism that is still practiced in the region.

The trek also offers some of the most spectacular views of the Himalayas, including the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. The trek also passes through the Shey Phoksundo National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including the blue sheep and the snow leopard.

The Cultural Upper Dolpo Trek is considered to be one of the most challenging treks in Nepal and is suitable for experienced trekkers who are comfortable with high altitudes. Due to the remote nature of the region, trekkers should also be prepared for basic camping accommodations and should expect to walk for several hours each day.

Despite the challenges, the Cultural Upper Dolpo Trek is an unforgettable experience that offers a unique insight into the culture and way of life of the people of Upper Dolpo, as well as some of the most breathtaking views of the Himalayas. It’s a perfect trek for those who are looking for a remote and off-beaten path trek in Nepal.

It’s also important to mention that the trek is only possible to do with a guided trek with a group of trekkers and with a special permit issued by the government of Nepal. The trek is also one of the restricted trekking routes in Nepal.

The best time to go on the Cultural Upper Dolpo Trek:

The Cultural Upper Dolpo Trek is a challenging and remote trek that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Nepal. The trek is best done during the months of September to November and March to May. These months offer the most favorable weather conditions for trekking, with clear skies and mild temperatures. The monsoon season, which runs from June to August, can make the trek difficult due to heavy rainfall and muddy trails. The winter months, December to February, can also be challenging due to the cold temperatures and heavy snowfall in the higher elevations. Therefore, September to November and March to May are considered the best time to go on the Cultural Upper Dolpo Trek.

Safety and physical fitness during the upper Dolpo trek:

Safety and physical fitness are important considerations when planning to go on the Cultural Upper Dolpo Trek. The trek is considered challenging due to its remote location, high elevations, and long days of trekking. Therefore, it’s important to be in good physical shape before embarking on the trek. This includes having a good level of cardiovascular fitness and being able to walk for several hours each day while carrying a light backpack.

It’s also important to be aware of the potential risks associated with high-altitude trekking, such as altitude sickness, which can occur when ascending to elevations above 8,000 feet. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, nausea, and fatigue. To minimize the risk of altitude sickness, it’s important to acclimatize properly and to take precautions such as avoiding alcohol and sleeping at lower elevations.

Do we need a Special permit for Cultural Upper Dolpo trek?

Yes, a special permit is required for the Cultural Upper Dolpo Trek. The trek is located in a restricted area of Nepal, and a permit is required to enter the region. The permit is issued by the government of Nepal and is obtained through a trekking agency. It’s important to note that the permit is only issued to guided groups and not to independent trekkers. This is to ensure that the trekkers are safe and that the fragile ecosystem of the region is protected.

The permit cost will vary depending on the number of trekkers, the duration of the trek, and the season you are planning to trek. It’s important to note that the permit cost is not included in the cost of the trek and it should be prepared by the trekkers themselves. The permit cost usually includes TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card, a Special permit, and a National park fee.

It’s also important to note that you need to have a valid passport and visa to enter Nepal. And also you need to have travel insurance with evacuation coverage for trekking in Nepal.

In summary, obtaining a special permit is necessary for the Cultural Upper Dolpo Trek, and it should be arranged through a trekking agency. This permit, along with TIMS, National park fee, and insurance, must be prepared by the trekkers themselves.

Weather on Upper Dolpo Trek:

The weather during the Cultural Upper Dolpo Trek can vary depending on the time of year. During the months of September to November and March to May, the weather is mild with clear skies, making it the best time for trekking. The monsoon season from June to August can bring heavy rainfall and muddy trails, making the trek more difficult. Winter months from December to February can be cold with snowfall in higher elevations making it difficult to trek. It’s important to be prepared for the weather conditions and to pack accordingly. It’s also recommended to check the weather forecast before starting the trek and be flexible with your itinerary if necessary.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel (1,400 m)

Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150 m) and then drive to Juphal (2,475 m)

Day 3: Trek from Juphal to Dunai (2,850 m)

Day 4: Trek from Dunai to Tarakot (2,850 m)

Day 5: Trek from Tarakot to Dho Tarap (4,090 m)

Day 6: Rest day in Dho Tarap

Day 7: Trek from Dho Tarap to Tarakot (2,850 m)

Day 8: Trek to Juphal and drive back to Nepalgunj

Day 9: Fly back to Kathmandu

Please note that the altitude mentioned above is approximate and it may vary depending on the trail and the itinerary of the trek. Also, the itinerary can be extended or shortened depending on the time and interest of the trekkers.

What You Should Know Before Dolpo Trekking

Before embarking on the Cultural Upper Dolpo Trek, there are a few things that you should know:

• The trek is considered challenging due to its high altitude and remote location, so it’s important to be in good physical shape.
• The trek is only possible with a guided group and a special permit issued by the government of Nepal.
• You will need to be prepared for the remote nature of the trek, which means that there are few facilities and limited access to medical care, so it’s important to carry the necessary equipment, including a first-aid kit, warm clothing, and a reliable water purification system.
• The best time to go on the Cultural Upper Dolpo Trek is during the months of September to November and March to May, which offer the best weather conditions for trekking.
• You should be aware of the potential risks associated with high-altitude trekking, such as altitude sickness, and take the necessary precautions, such as avoiding alcohol and sleeping at lower elevations.
• It’s important to have a valid passport and visa to enter Nepal and also to have travel insurance with evacuation coverage for trekking in Nepal.
• It is also important to be aware of cultural sensitivity and respect the local culture and tradition during the trek.

By being prepared and informed, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience on the Cultural Upper Dolpo Trek.