Upper Dolpo to Upper Mustang Trek

A short but thrilling flight takes you from Nepalgunj to Jhupal, the gateway to Dolpo. After meeting your trekking team and organizing gear, begin your trek with a gradual descent to Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpa. Overnight at a local teahouse.

The trail follows the Phoksundo River through pine forests and small villages. Enjoy views of terraced fields and traditional stone houses as you reach Ankhe, a small settlement surrounded by greenery.

Today’s walk involves several ups and downs through forested ridges. The route passes waterfalls and narrow gorges, with glimpses of the high mountains above. Camp overnight near the village of Renje.

A memorable day as you reach Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal’s most beautiful alpine lakes. The trail climbs steadily through juniper forests, then descends to the turquoise lake surrounded by cliffs. Explore the nearby Ringmo village and witness the culture of the Dolpo-pa people.

Spend a day exploring the serene Phoksundo Lake area, visit Tshowa Monastery (Bon Monastery), and interact with locals in Ringmo village. The rest day helps with acclimatization before crossing high passes.

Leaving the lake behind, the trail ascends along the upper valley. The path is rugged and wild, offering majestic views of Kanjirowa Himal. Overnight at Chunemba, surrounded by alpine meadows.

A tough climb today as the trail leads toward the high mountains. Camp at the Snowfield Base Camp, named for its snowy surroundings. This is one of the most isolated sections of the trek.

Cross the Kang La Pass (5,360 m) — the highest point so far. Descend to the mystical Shey Gompa, also known as the Crystal Monastery, nestled beneath Crystal Mountain. This area is deeply spiritual and one of the highlights of the Dolpo region.

Spend the day exploring Shey Gompa and its surroundings. Learn about the ancient Bon and Buddhist traditions, visit local hermit caves, and enjoy peaceful meditation in the Himalayas.

Descend through beautiful canyons and yak pastures. The trail follows a pleasant river valley before reaching Nam Gaun Gompa, a small monastic village.

A relatively easy day trekking through scenic valleys. Pass yak herders’ settlements and mani walls before reaching Marang.

Descend gradually to lower altitudes, following the Saldang River. The trail passes through barley fields and typical Dolpo villages.

Climb toward Misha Gaun, a high-altitude village that reflects ancient Tibetan culture. You’ll see prayer flags fluttering and stone houses perched against rugged cliffs.

Today’s trek follows an easy trail along the Shimen River, passing remote hamlets and grazing lands. Overnight in Shimen Gaun.

The valley opens wide with views of high ridges and glaciers. Reach Tinje, one of the largest villages in Upper Dolpo, known for its ancient monastery and wide plains.

The trail leads through barren terrain surrounded by snow peaks. Few settlements are found here, emphasizing the wild remoteness of Dolpo.

Crossing the Chharka La Pass, descend to Chharka Bhot, a charming medieval village with a small monastery and stone houses built in traditional Tibetan style.

A demanding day with high-altitude ascents. The route climbs to open yak pastures near Tulsi Khola. Camp under the stars in this wild, untouched region.

Continue your journey across the upper passes. The landscape is dramatic and windswept, offering grand views of the Dhaulagiri range.

One of the highest camps of the trek, today’s route crosses rugged ridges before reaching Kharka. This is a challenging day but rewards with spectacular scenery.

Descend into the Mustang region, entering a more arid landscape. The culture and architecture change as you approach the Upper Mustang trails.

Reach Ghami, one of the ancient settlements of Upper Mustang. Visit the monastery and explore the colorful cliffs and ancient cave dwellings nearby.

A scenic walk through barren hills and canyons brings you to Marang. The region’s ochre-colored cliffs and ancient chortens make for a photographer’s delight.

Enter the legendary walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Mustang. Explore royal palaces, monasteries, and narrow streets lined with traditional houses.

Visit Jhong Cave, an ancient multi-story cave system once used for meditation and refuge. Explore the surrounding high cliffs and enjoy sweeping views of the Lo Manthang valley.

Trek southward to Yara, following a beautiful trail along canyons and rocky ridges. Visit small local monasteries and experience rural Mustang life.

Descend through barren hills and cross the Dhechyang Khola River before reaching Tange, a picturesque village known for its whitewashed houses and long mani walls.

The final leg of your trek crosses several small passes before descending to Muktinath, one of Nepal’s most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus and Buddhists. Visit the temple complex and enjoy views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri peaks.

A scenic morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara and then to Kathmandu marks the end of your incredible journey from Dolpo to Mustang. Celebrate your achievement and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of this trans-Himalayan trek.