Upper Dolpo Shey Gompa Trek

After breakfast, we start our Kathmandu city tour, which includes four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the valley.

Pashupatinath: This temple is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus worldwide. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for the cremations conducted on the banks of the Bagmati River.

Boudhanath Stupa: Known as one of the largest stupas in Asia, it is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a famous tourist destination in the valley. Boudhanath is also renowned for its over 50 Tibetan gompas or monasteries.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: This historic square houses the palaces of the ancient kings who ruled over the Kathmandu Kingdom, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Located in the heart of the valley, this site is both a famous tourist destination and a significant pilgrimage spot for Buddhists. It is commonly known as the Monkey Temple due to the numerous monkeys that inhabit the area.

The morning after breakfast, according to the flight schedule, we fly to Nepalgunj. This one-hour scenic flight offers stunning views of the western part of the Himalayas, including the Langtang, Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri ranges. Comparatively, Nepalgunj is warmer than Kathmandu and lies near the Indian border. Nepalgunj serves as the gateway to the Dolpo Region. In the afternoon, you can explore Nepalgunj city, where you will find a vibrant mix of both Hindu and Muslim religious communities. The morning after breakfast as per the flight schedule we fly to Nepalgunj. One hour scenic flight crossing a whole range of the western part of the Himalayas like Langtang, Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. Comparatively, Nepalgunj is warmer than Kathmandu. It lies near the Indian border. Nepalgunj is the gateway to the Dolpo Region. Afternoon you can explore Nepalgunj city where you can find both Hindu and Muslim religious people.

The morning after breakfast, we fly to Juphal Airport. This thirty-five-minute flight from Nepalgunj offers beautiful views of snowcapped mountains and deep valleys. Upon landing in the small mountain village of Juphal, you will immediately notice the colder, fresher air compared to Nepalgunj. After reaching Juphal, we arrange our luggage and other necessary gear, and meet our porters and additional staff members. We then embark on an easy walk to Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpo, located at 2,000 meters on the banks of the Thuli Bheri River. Enjoy an overnight stay at a local teahouse.

The morning after breakfast, we start our trek to Chhepka village. First, we cross the suspension bridge and head further, bypassing the newly built hospital. At the juncture of Thuli Bheri and Suli Ghat, we turn onto the north trail. The riverbed becomes the main trail we follow. Along the way, we pass through grazing meadows and fields of buckwheat, millets, and potatoes.

Trekking along the riverbank, we reach Hanke village, the gateway to Phoksundo National Park. At the end of the day, we arrive at Chhepka, a small village surrounded by millet and wheat fields. Enjoy an overnight stay at a tented camp.

The morning after breakfast, we embark on our trek through a beautiful forest, following a picturesque river. The trek involves ascending and descending various trekking trails, offering a mix of challenging and scenic routes. Along the way, we encounter local people and immerse ourselves in their unique culture, noting their use of mules and Dzopas (a crossbreed of Yak and Cow) for transportation and labor.

As we continue, we visit the charming villages of Reechi and Chumuwar. Here, you can observe the local people’s caravan houses, yak herds, cattle, and fields of buckwheat. These villages provide a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and agricultural practices of the region. Finally, we reach the village of Palam by the end of the day. In the evening, you have the opportunity to walk around and explore the local surroundings. Enjoy an overnight stay at a tented camp, experiencing the tranquility and natural beauty of the area.

The trek begins with a steep uphill climb for the first few hours. During this part of the journey, you will notice minimal vegetation, and the hills are very dusty, especially in the dry season. As we arrive at the view tower, we are rewarded with a spectacular sight of Nepal’s highest waterfall, which stands at 107 meters. The surrounding hills provide mind-boggling sceneries. Just ten minutes uphill from the view tower, we catch our first glimpse of the stunning Phoksundo Lake.

The trail then gradually descends through a serene pine forest, leading us to the small village of Ringmo. The residents of Ringmo practice the Bon Po religion, which predates Buddhism and was founded by Buddha Tonpa Shenrab Miwoche 18,000 years ago. It is believed that Dolpo was once the center of the Bon Kingdom called Zhang Zhung, a powerful kingdom in what is now western and northwestern Tibet. Although the Bon Kingdom was eventually defeated by the Buddhist kingdom of Tibet and largely disappeared, some people in this region still practice Bon Po.

Enjoy an overnight stay at a tented camp, surrounded by the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the area.

This is a big day dedicated to exploring the pristine Phoksundo Lake, which is surrounded by Tibetan Buddhist settlements. The wide and large platform along the lake’s edge is adorned with colorful Buddhist prayer flags, enhancing the lake’s beauty and creating a mind-blowing visual experience.

The lake’s stunning blue waters make it appear as if the sky has descended to earth, giving a heavenly impression. As we explore, we may encounter yak caravans carrying their loads, adding to the authentic atmosphere. Visiting the monasteries and uncovering the hidden social practices of the local people offers an enchanting cultural experience.

The hike around Phoksundo Lake provides us with a special day filled with pleasing scenery and memorable moments. Enjoy an overnight stay at a tented camp, immersed in the natural splendor and cultural richness of the region.

As with previous mornings, after breakfast, we start our trek to Salla Ghari. Today, we enter the restricted area of Upper Dolpo from Ringo Village, marking the boundary between Lower and Upper Dolpo. We follow the famous trail where the movie “CARAVAN,” directed by Eric Valli, was filmed in 1998. This movie was nominated for an Oscar, adding historical significance to our journey.

This trail is a historic salt trade route between the people of Dolpo and Tibet. The winding path along the lake offers a more adventurous experience. As we ascend to a height of 4,085 meters, we are rewarded with a stunning view of Lake Ringmo. Afterward, the trail gradually descends through a dense forest, then climbs up towards an open valley, providing spectacular views of Kanjirowa Himal, which has an elevation of 6,612 meters.

We then reach an alpine area with juniper bushes called Thaneba, also known as Lakeside Camp, a beautiful spot for camping. Enjoy an overnight stay at a tented camp, surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of the area.

Today’s trek presents frequent stream crossings, adding an adventurous element to our journey. The initially flat trail leads us into remote glacial valleys, characterized by narrow paths flanked by towering cliffs and contorted rock formations. Along the way, we navigate across a wooden bridge spanning the confluence of a glacial stream and the Phoksundo Khola.

As we progress, the trail becomes softer and muddier, making the hike a bit challenging. The path narrows further as we descend steep rocky boundaries. Eventually, we enter a narrow gorge where we will set up our camp for the night. While it’s possible to continue the trek, there’s a risk of altitude sickness at higher elevations. Therefore, we opt to camp in this picturesque location. Enjoy an overnight stay at the tented camp, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Himalayan landscape.

Today is slated to be a long and challenging day. Following breakfast, we embark on a strenuous climb that lasts approximately two and a half hours, navigating a dusty path towards Kang La (5350m), also known as Ngadra La. This ascent requires considerable effort as we make our way up the steep terrain.

Upon reaching the pass, we are greeted by a landscape blanketed in snow. The descent from Kang La is equally demanding, with steep slopes to navigate. After approximately three hours of descent, we arrive at Shey Gompa village. Despite its small size, Shey Gompa holds significant cultural and spiritual importance. The village is home to a few houses and ancient Gompas dating back to the 11th century.

Situated beneath the majestic crystal peak, Shey Gompa is nestled on a small grassy plain at the confluence of two rivers. Legend has it that this Gompa was constructed by a Tibetan Buddhist who arrived here on the back of a flying snow lion. Often referred to as the spiritual heart of the Dolpo Region, Shey Gompa attracts numerous pilgrims each year who come to perform the Kora (clockwise circuit) around the crystal peak.

Tonight, we rest at a tented camp, surrounded by the serene beauty and spiritual aura of Shey Gompa, reflecting on the challenges and rewards of the day’s journey.

Today, after breakfast, we delve deeper into the exploration of Shey Gompa. One notable site to visit is Tsakang Gompa, located at an altitude of about 4570 meters. This monastery is not only a place of worship but also serves as a retreat center. Over the years, Tsakang Gompa has been a meditation haven for many renowned lamas from Tibet.

Belonging to the Chaiba community, followers of Padmasambhava and the Kagyu sects, Shey Gompa holds significant historical and cultural significance. It was the first Kagyupa monastery, founded by the lama Ten-skin-Ra-Pa during the 11th century.

Shey Gompa is renowned for preserving the ancient Buddhist culture of Dolpo, where the traditional Tibetan way of life, combining animism with the teachings of Buddha, still thrives. Centuries ago, Drutup Yeshe introduced Buddhism to the Dolpo valley, encountering a people whose supreme deity was a ‘fierce mountain spirit.’

Nearby lies Crystal Mountain, a peculiar geological formation characterized by contorted cliffs adorned with quartz and rich marine fossils. Shey Gompa overlooks the confluence of Kangju Nala and Yeju Nala, where a group of prayer mills, turned by water wheels, stands as a testament to the region’s spiritual vibrancy.

After a day of exploration and immersion in the rich cultural heritage of Shey Gompa, we retire to our tented camp, surrounded by the serene beauty and spiritual aura of the Dolpo region.

After breakfast this morning, we embark on our trek to Namgung, beginning with the challenging Shey La pass, also known as Glen La, which stands at an elevation of about 5000 meters. As we ascend the pass, we are treated to breathtaking views of the northern part of the Tibetan plateau, known as the highest plateau in the world. To the east, the majestic Mustang region unfolds before us, showcasing its rugged beauty.

Once we conquer the pass, we begin our descent towards the pastures of Namgung village. Here, we are warmly welcomed by the local people, who extend their hospitality to us with open arms. Namgung is a picturesque village, characterized by its serene surroundings and friendly atmosphere, making it a delightful place to rest after a challenging trek.

Tonight, we settle in at our tented camp, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of Namgung village, reflecting on the incredible journey we’ve undertaken and the stunning landscapes we’ve encountered along the way.

Passing by the Namgung monastery, we commence our ascent uphill. The trail is dusty, and the landscape appears barren, offering panoramic views of the surrounding terrain. Traversing through this rugged terrain adds an extra layer of challenge to our trek.

As we continue, we must ascend to an altitude of 4700 meters before descending steep slopes that lead us to the picturesque village of Saldang. Perched on a plateau high above the Nam Khong Nala, Saldang is one of the largest villages in the lower Dolpo area. Despite its remote location, the village thrives, both agriculturally and strategically. Its position on a trade route to Tibet has contributed to its prosperity over the years.

Tonight, we set up camp amidst the tranquil surroundings of Saldang village, immersing ourselves in its unique charm and reflecting on the day’s journey.

From Saldang village, we follow the trail as it descends to the riverbed, passing through a landscape adorned with picturesque terraced fields, ancient stupas, chortens, mani walls, and a Chaiba monastery. As we continue our journey, we arrive at Namdo, the next village along our route. Namdo is home to approximately four hundred inhabitants, residing in sixty houses. Stretching for about 5 kilometers along the high slopes to the left of Nam Khong Khola, Namdo offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

After exploring Namdo, we descend to the riverbed, following the path along the high slopes. Along the way, we encounter another vibrant monastery near Sibu village, adding to the cultural richness of our journey. Tonight, we set up camp amidst the tranquil surroundings of this picturesque area, surrounded by the beauty and serenity of the Dolpo region.

As with our routine, we begin our trek after breakfast, heading towards Jeng La. Today’s trek is relatively short. Initially, we traverse an easy trail, making for a comfortable start to our journey. After a couple of hours of walking, we cross a stream and continue along a pleasant trail that winds beside the village.

Beyond the village, we are greeted by enticing meadows that serve as our campsite for the day. This serene setting offers a perfect spot to rest and rejuvenate after our trek. In the evening, you have the opportunity to explore the village surroundings, soaking in the local culture and scenery.

Tonight, we settle in at our tented camp, surrounded by the tranquility of the meadows, reflecting on the day’s journey and preparing for the adventures that lie ahead.

To reach Tokyu Gaon, we must first conquer the formidable Jeng La pass, towering at approximately 4850 meters above sea level. The ascent to the summit typically takes around 2 hours, a challenging but rewarding journey. From the peak of Jeng La, we are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Dhaulagiri mountain range. In the morning light, Dhaulagiri appears as if draped in a golden cloak, casting a spellbinding aura over the landscape.

Following our descent from Jeng La, we enter the enchanting Tarap valley. Here, emerald green meadows carpet the valley floor, creating a striking contrast against the rugged terrain. As we traverse down a scenic trail, we are serenaded by the gentle flow of the Tarap Chu river.

Continuing our trek, we ascend from Tarap Chu and eventually arrive at Tokyu Gaon. This idyllic village is nestled amidst the mountains, adorned with ancient monasteries and chortens that whisper tales of bygone eras. As we explore the village, we witness locals tending to their agricultural fields, their labor a testament to the timeless connection between humans and the land.

Tonight, we rest under the starry sky, enveloped by the tranquility of Tokyu Gaon, grateful for the beauty and serenity of this remote Himalayan village. Our tented camp provides a comfortable refuge, allowing us to recharge our spirits for the adventures that await us on the morrow.

Early in the morning, before breakfast, we embark on a hike to the Chaiba Gompa, a revered ancient monastery with a rich history and magnificent architecture. The serene atmosphere and spiritual aura of the monastery make it a truly captivating experience. After our visit, we return to our campsite for breakfast, nourishing ourselves for the day ahead.

Continuing our journey, we traverse a gentle trail that meanders through lush farming lands, dotted with grazing animal herds. Along the way, we encounter locals dressed in their traditional attire, reflecting their deep-rooted connection to their religion and culture.

As we approach the village of Dho Tarap, we encounter the French School, nestled just outside the village boundaries. Surrounded by an irregular stone wall, the school consists of thirty-four houses inhabited by both Bonpo and Buddhist practitioners. We have the opportunity to visit a Buddhist Gompa within the village, where a Lama resides. Here, we explore the monastery and may even be granted access to the Lama’s private Gompa, where exquisite Thankas are crafted by the monks themselves.

Tonight, we retire to our tented camp, filled with awe and reverence for the cultural treasures and spiritual experiences of the day. As we rest, we reflect on the profound connections forged with the people and places of this sacred land.

Continuing our journey, we trace the banks of the Tarap Khola, venturing through a narrow gorge where the river rushes fiercely alongside us. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for sightings of blue sheep, marmots, yaks, sheep, and goats, as well as encounters with locals from Dolpo herding their flocks to lower pastures for the winter. The afternoon brings further undulations in the path as it veers away from the immediate course of the river.

Evidence of trail improvements becomes apparent, with sections of rock blasted out to enhance the path’s accessibility. Eventually, we diverge from the regular course of the riverbed, navigating through hill gorges until we reach Serkam village. Our journey culminates with the crossing of a newly constructed suspension bridge, marking our arrival at Serkam.

Tonight, we set up camp at Serkam village, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Himalayan landscape. As we rest, we reflect on the day’s adventures and anticipate the experiences that await us on the remainder of our journey.

Trekking from Serkam to Tarakot via Khani Gaon, we continue our journey through the gorge of the Tarap River. The trails wind through steep slopes, presenting us with narrow and crumbly paths throughout the day’s trek.

Along the way, we encounter the renowned Sandul Gompa, located 8 kilometers east of Tarakot. Situated at the junction of Barbing Khola and Tarap Chu, this ancient monastery sits proudly atop a knoll to the south of the Bheri River. Historically, Sandul Gompa supervised the collection of tolls for trading caravans passing through an area known as Tichu Rong.

Upon reaching Tarakot, you have the option to camp near the Khani Gaon River, where excellent cooking facilities are available. This offers an alternative to camping directly at Tarakot.

Tonight, we settle into our tented camp, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Himalayan landscape. As we rest, we reflect on the day’s trek and the fascinating sights and experiences encountered along the way.

The morning begins with a hearty breakfast before we embark on our trek to Dunai. The trail leads us along a wide route, offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. As we continue, we ascend above the Thuli Bheri River, enjoying a leisurely walk along its banks.

With each step, we draw closer to Dunai, the district headquarters of the Dolpo region. The journey is characterized by its ease, allowing us to soak in the beauty of our surroundings as we approach our final destination.

Arriving in Dunai, we reflect on the incredible journey we’ve undertaken, traversing breathtaking high passes and immersing ourselves in the natural wonders of Upper Dolpo. The sense of accomplishment is palpable as we conclude our remarkable round trip adventure.

Tonight, we set up camp in Dunai, surrounded by the memories of our journey and the camaraderie forged along the way. As we rest, we cherish the experiences and friendships made during our time in this remote and awe-inspiring region.

After breakfast, we commence our trek to Juphal, following a sloping trail that gradually leads us downwards. As we navigate the path, we leave the tree line behind us and ascend to the top, where we are greeted by an incredible panoramic view of Juphal. Despite the rough terrain, the presence of a motor road has made the journey more manageable.

Upon reaching Juphal, we take a well-deserved rest and leisurely stroll around the area. Tonight marks our final night in the mountains, a time to celebrate the success of our trekking adventure and express gratitude to our porters for their invaluable support. We take this opportunity to return any equipment and bid farewell to our companions who have accompanied us throughout the journey.

As we retire to our tented camp for the night, we reflect on the memories and achievements of our trek, cherishing the experiences and bonds formed along the way.

Today marks the conclusion of our journey through the Dolpo region as we embark on a scenic flight from Jhupal to Nepalgunj. As we bid farewell to this remote and enchanting land, we carry with us cherished memories and life-changing experiences. From Nepalgunj, we catch our next flight to Kathmandu, where our adventure began.

Upon our arrival in Kathmandu, we are transferred to our hotel, where we can relax and unwind after our travels. In the evening, we have the opportunity to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel and indulge in some shopping for souvenirs to bring back for our friends and family.

As night falls, we gather for a special dinner at a Nepalese restaurant, where we are treated to delicious local cuisine and entertained by a cultural dance program. This evening of celebration allows us to reflect on our journey, bond with our fellow travelers, and immerse ourselves in the rich cultural heritage of Nepal.

As we savor the flavors of Nepalese cuisine and enjoy the captivating performances, we are filled with gratitude for the experiences and friendships forged during our time in this beautiful country.