Upper Dolpo Trek

duration 24 days
difficulty Challenging
best season Mar-Nov
group size Min. 2 Pax
max altitude From 4,600 feet at Kathmandu to 16,900 ft at Kang La pass

trip overview

The Upper Dolpo Trek stands as one of Nepal’s most extraordinary and challenging adventures, taking you deep into one of the world’s last pristine wilderness areas. This remarkable 25-day journey ventures into the remote trans-Himalayan region where ancient Tibetan culture thrives virtually unchanged, and where the landscape resembles the mythical Shangri-La more than anywhere else on Earth.

This is not just a trek—it’s a pilgrimage through time and space. You’ll traverse three major high-altitude passes, with the highest reaching 16,900 feet , witness Nepal’s deepest and most sacred lake, and walk in the footsteps of ancient salt traders along routes that have connected Tibet with the lower valleys for centuries. The Upper Dolpo region remained forbidden to outsiders until recent decades, preserving a unique ecosystem and culture that offers modern trekkers a glimpse into a world that time forgot.

Highlights

Phoksundo Lake – Nepal’s deepest lake at 476 feet, spanning 1.91 square miles with surreal turquoise waters sacred to Tibetan Buddhists
Shey Gompa (Crystal Monastery) – Visit the 800-year-old monastery and witness authentic Tibetan Buddhism in one of the world’s most remote locations
Three High Mountain Passes – Cross Kang La (16,900ft), Saldang La (15,994ft), and Jeng La (15,896ft) with spectacular Himalayan panoramas
Restricted Area Access – Trek through Nepal’s forbidden Upper Dolpo region, accessible only with special permits and guided groups
Ancient Trading Routes – Walk the same paths used by Tibetan yak traders for centuries along historic salt trading corridors
Traditional Tibetan Villages – Experience authentic culture in Saldang and other remote settlements virtually unchanged for over 1,000 years
Pristine Wilderness – Camp in complete isolation through untouched forests and high-altitude desert landscapes with minimal tourism impact
Unique Wildlife – Opportunity to spot blue sheep, snow leopards, and other rare Himalayan species in Shey Phoksundo National Park
Ultimate Adventure Challenge – Experience one of the world’s most demanding treks requiring good fitness and previous hiking experience

Detailed itinerary

day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu (4,600ft)

A Mountain Kick representative will receive you as you land into Kathmandu and take you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and recover from jet lag or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel on your own. This ancient city has been included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites for its cultural, aesthetic, religious and historical importance.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
day 02
Fly to Nepalgunj (4,900ft) from Kathmandu.

We take a one hour flight to Nepalgunj in southern plains of Nepal. Nepalgunj is the biggest city in the region and shares its southern border with India . It is hot and humid in Nepalgunj but you can visit around town in the evening. This flight marks the beginning of our journey toward one of Nepal’s most remote regions.

Time: 1 hour flight
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast
day 03
Spare day in Nepalgunj (4,900ft)

This day serves as a buffer for potential flight delays or cancellations, which are common in mountain flying conditions. If flights operate on schedule, you can explore Nepalgunj’s markets and experience the blend of Hindu and Muslim cultures in this border town. The day can also be used for final trek preparations and equipment checks before heading into the remote Dolpo region.

Difficulty: Rest Day
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast
day 04
Fly to Juphal (7,874ft). Trek to Dunai (7,054ft)

We will reach Juphal in 35 minutes. This small airport is the main entrance to the Dolpo region from the rest of Nepal . From here, we begin our trek downhill through grasslands till Kala Gaura. Then we follow a river upstream to Dunai. It takes three hours in total . This marks the official beginning of our Dolpo adventure.

Distance: 35-minute flight + 3 hours trek | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 05
Trek to Ankhe (8,727ft).

We have to hike for about six hours this day. We begin by following the Thulo Bheri River and make several stops along its banks . We cross the river back and forth to see all the points of interests till we arrive at Ankhe. The trail provides beautiful riverside views and introduces us to the remote mountain landscape that characterizes this region.

Time: 6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 06
Trek to Renje (10,184ft)

We continue upstream and walk through forests. The trail is rocky and has its ups and downs (both literally and figuratively). The journey is tough and it takes at least seven hours to reach Renje . Today’s trek involves significant elevation gain as we climb higher into the mountain terrain, preparing us for the challenges ahead.

Time: 7+ hours | Difficulty: Challenging
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 07
Trek to Phoksundo Lake (11,849ft).

We continue along the river trail and walk past forests to the Phoksundo Lake. We have to walk for six and a half hours to get here. The lake spread over 1.91 square miles is beautiful to say the least . As you might have seen in pictures, the landscape is surreal and that is why the Tibetan and Buddhist people consider this place sacred. At the maximum depth of 476 feet, it is the deepest lake in Nepal.

Time: 6.5 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 08
Trek to Phoksundo Khola (11,505ft).

We trek down from the lake and follow the Phoksundo Khola River. After six hours of walking through pine forests, we will reach our camping site . The descent provides a different perspective of the sacred lake area and allows us to experience the pristine forest environments that characterize this protected region.

Time: 6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 09
Trek to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (14,442ft).

We walk past the river valley and make our way towards the forests. The landscape is beautiful and you will feel like walking in a pine forest country club, only a tad bit denser and wilder . We will reach our camp site after seven hours of trekking. Today marks a significant altitude gain as we prepare for the high passes ahead.

Time: 7 hours | Difficulty: Challenging
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 10
Cross the Kang La pass (16,900ft). Then trek to Shey Gompa (13,537ft)

We have to walk for around seven hours this day therefore we start early and head towards the Kang La pass. From this high you get the perfect view of the Himalayas above and the valleys below . We walk down from here to our camp site at Shey Gompa. This is one of the most challenging yet rewarding days of the trek, crossing the highest pass of our journey.

Time: 7 hours | Difficulty: Very Challenging
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 11
Rest at Shey Gompa.

This is a day for acclimatization and exploration. You can visit the Shey monastery and mingle with the locals . Your body will be very exhausted after all these days of walking so rest well because our journey is not over yet . This ancient monastery offers insights into the spiritual life of this remote region.

Difficulty: Rest Day
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 12
Cross the Saldang La pass (15,994ft). Then trek to Namduna Gaun (14,436ft).

We tread a rocky trail among forests till we reach the top of the Saldang La pass. It is downhill from here till we reach the village of Namduna Gaun . We will reach the village seven hours after leaving from Shey Gompa . Today involves crossing another major high pass with spectacular mountain views.

Time: 7 hours | Difficulty: Very Challenging
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 13
Trek to Saldang (12,805ft)

It is a relatively easy day of trekking. We climb up for a while after which it is all downhill. We will walk along mountain ridges and reach Saldang in four hours . Saldang is one of the largest settlements in the region and offers a glimpse into the traditional life of the Dolpo people.

Time: 4 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 14
Trek to Sibu (12,933ft)

We will follow the Nam Khong Khola River for six hours till we reach the village of Sibu. We will pass through villages and monasteries along the way to keep the journey interesting . The trail provides opportunities to interact with local communities and observe traditional mountain life.

Time: 6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 15
Trek to foot of the Jeng La (14,334ft)

We continue to follow the Nam Khong Khola along a trail used by Tibetan yak traders for ages. In about six hours, we will reach the Jeng La Phedi which will be our home for the night . Walking on these ancient trading routes connects us to centuries of mountain commerce and culture.

Time: 6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 16
Cross the Jeng La pass (15,896ft). The trek to Tokyu Gaun (13,911ft)

We climb up the Jeng La to cross the Jeng La pass. Mount Dhaulagiri and adjacent Himalayan peaks are clearly visible from the top so it provides photo opportunities for the shutterbugs . From the top, we descend about 2,000 feet to the village of Tokyu Gaun. It takes us about five hours in total.

Time: 5 hours | Difficulty: Challenging
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 17
Trek to Dho Tarap (13,419ft)

We descend along the trail on the bank of the Chu River. In about four and a half hours of walking through a green valley, we reach our destination of Dho Tarap . This beautiful valley offers a welcome change of scenery with its lush vegetation and flowing waters.

Time: 4.5 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 18
Trek to Serkam (11,909ft)

We trek along the Tarap Khola River towards the hills and then walk along hillsides till we reach a suspension bridge. Serkam lies on the other side . The entire journey takes a little less than seven hours of trekking . The trail follows the river valley with beautiful mountain scenery throughout the day.

Time: Nearly 7 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 19
Trek to Khani Gaun (8,366ft).

We follow the Tarap Khola River downhill today. The trail is very steep and we will lose more than 3,500 feet in altitude in about seven hours of walking. We will reach Khani Gaun in the evening . Today’s significant descent brings us back to lower elevations as we begin our return journey.

Time: 7 hours | Difficulty: Challenging
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 20
Trek to Tarakot (7,484ft)

We again follow the river downstream and pass through forests and gorges. In about four hours, we will reach our camp site at Tarakot village . This ancient fortress town provides insights into the historical trading routes of the region.

Time: 4 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 21
Trek to Dunai (6,732ft)

We walk back to Dunai, the place where we were at 17 days ago. We pass several forests and follow the Thulo Bheri River downstream for about five hours till we reach Dunai . Completing this circuit marks a significant achievement in our Dolpo adventure.

Time: 5 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 22
Trek to Juphal (2,404ft) - 3 hrs

It is the same road we took when we had arrived. The first part of the three-hour trek is downhill and then comes an uphill trek. We will reach Juphal in three hours . This final trekking day brings us back to where our mountain adventure began.

Time: 3 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 23
Fly to Nepalgunj. Then fly to Kathmandu. Farewell dinner

A 35-minute flight takes us to Nepalgunj. We will fly back to Kathmandu on the same day . After three weeks in the remote mountains, returning to the bustling capital provides a stark contrast to the peaceful wilderness we’ve experienced.

Time: 35 minutes + connecting flight | Difficulty: Easy
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast & Farewell dinner
day 24
Final Departure.

We will drop you to Tribhuvan International Airport and you will be gone with recollections of your Himalayan journey to keep you busy throughout the flight . This marks the end of an incredible adventure through one of Nepal’s most remote and spectacular regions.

Time: Airport transfer
- Meal: Breakfast

What's Included

Airport pickup and drop-off in our company vehicle
Three-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis (breakfast included)
Tented accommodation during the trek on a twin-sharing basis
All meals during trekking (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Fully paid round tickets for Kathmandu-Nepalgunj and return flights
Round tickets for Nepalgunj-Juphal flight and back
Local government-licensed guides
Porters (one for each pair of travelers) and local support staff
Conservation area entry fees and Trekkers’ Information Management System card
Private vehicle rides included in the itinerary
A duffel bag, a sun hat, and a t-shirt as souvenirs
All tourist fees, government charges, and other official expenses
A traditional Nepali feast with cultural shows as a farewell dinner

What's Not Included

International flights to and from Nepal
Nepal visa fees
Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu (except farewell dinner)
Travel insurance (mandatory for the trek)
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottled water, etc.)
Tips for guides and porters
Personal trekking equipment and clothing
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages during the trek
Emergency evacuation and medical expenses
Extra nights in Kathmandu due to flight delays
Single room supplement charges

Accommodation during the Trip

In Kathmandu

Three-star hotel accommodation on a twin-sharing basis (breakfast included)

Room Arrangements:

Twin-sharing basis as standard accommodation
Single rooms are available upon request

In Nepalgunj

Hotel Standard:

Hotel accommodation provided
Breakfast included

Duration:

Minimum one night, with a spare day allocated as a buffer

About the Spare Day:

This day serves as a buffer for potential flight delays or cancellations, which are common in mountain flying conditions . If flights operate on schedule, you can explore Nepalgunj’s markets and experience the blend of Hindu and Muslim cultures in this border town . The day can also be used for final trek preparations and equipment checks before heading into the remote Dolpo region .

During the Trek

Accommodation Type:

Tented accommodation during the trek on a twin-sharing basis
Camping is necessary due to the remote, restricted nature of the Upper Dolpo region

Meals:

All meals during trekking (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included

Important Considerations:

Unlike other trekking regions with established guesthouses, Upper Dolpo requires tented camping throughout the trek
The remote and restricted nature of the Upper Dolpo region means traditional lodge accommodation is not available
Tented camps are specifically designed for the high-altitude, wilderness environment of this trans-Himalayan region

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Upper Dolpo Trek?

The Upper Dolpo Trek is rated as challenging, involving 24 days of trekking at high altitudes with the highest point reaching 16,900 feet at Kang La pass. This trek is significantly more demanding than standard Nepal treks due to its remote trans-Himalayan location, extreme altitude, and wilderness camping conditions. You'll traverse three major high-altitude passes and trek through one of the world's last pristine wilderness areas. Previous high-altitude trekking experience is highly recommended.
Why choose Mountain Kick for your Upper Dolpo Trek?
- Why choose Mountain Kick for your Upper Dolpo Trek?
- Restricted area expertise: Deep knowledge of Upper Dolpo's special permit requirements and restricted access procedures
- Comprehensive logistics: We handle complex flight arrangements through Nepalgunj and Juphal, camping equipment, and all permits
- Local connections: Established relationships in this remote region ensure reliable support
- Safety focus: Experienced guides trained for extreme altitude and wilderness conditions
- Complete camping setup: Professional tented accommodation and meal preparation in pristine wilderness
- Cultural authenticity: Access to ancient Tibetan villages and monasteries virtually unchanged for centuries
How physically fit do I need to be and how should I prepare?
Upper Dolpo requires excellent physical condition as you'll trek 6-8 hours daily at extreme altitudes for 24 days. Prepare with:
- Intensive cardiovascular training: 4-5 times weekly for 4-6 months (long hikes, running, cycling)
- High-altitude experience: Complete at least one trek above 4,500m before attempting Upper Dolpo
- Strength training: Focus on leg, core, and back strength for carrying gear and long ascents
- Multi-day practice: Complete several 3-4 day backpacking trips to test endurance
- Mental preparation: Build resilience for challenging weather and basic camping conditions
This trek demands significantly more preparation than standard Nepal treks due to its extreme remoteness and altitude.
How do I prevent and manage altitude sickness?
- Follow the gradual ascent schedule carefully designed for extreme altitude
- Ascend slowly and allow proper acclimatization at key points
- Stay hydrated (4-5 liters daily at high altitude)
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco completely
- Consider Diamox after consulting your doctor experienced with extreme altitude medicine
- Recognize severe symptoms: persistent headache, vomiting, confusion, difficulty walking
- Immediate descent is crucial if severe symptoms develop
- Your guide carries comprehensive medical supplies and satellite communication for emergencies
The extreme altitude of Upper Dolpo (up to 16,900ft) requires more careful attention to altitude sickness than standard treks.
What permits do I need and how are they arranged?
Upper Dolpo requires special restricted area permits:
1. Dolpo Region Restricted Area Permit - Required for accessing the forbidden Upper Dolpo region
2. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
3. Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Mountain Kick handles all permit arrangements as part of our service. You'll need to provide:
- Your passport details
- Two passport-sized photos
- Your arrival date in Nepal
- Copy of travel insurance
The restricted area permits are only available through licensed agencies and require minimum group size of 2 people.
What about the flights to Nepalgunj and Juphal?

Nepalgunj Flight: We take a one-hour flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, marking the beginning of our journey toward one of Nepal's most remote regions. Fully paid round tickets for Kathmandu-Nepalgunj flights are included. Spare Day Buffer: A spare day in Nepalgunj serves as a buffer for potential flight delays or cancellations, which are common in mountain flying conditions. This day can be used for final trek preparations and equipment checks. Juphal Flight: Round tickets for Nepalgunj-Juphal flight and back are included. This small airport is the main entrance to the Dolpo region, accessible only by small aircraft in favorable weather conditions.
How long do I have to trek each day?
Daily trekking times vary throughout the 24-day journey:
- Most days involve 6-8 hours of actual walking time at high altitude
- Some challenging pass-crossing days may require up to 10 hours
- Rest and acclimatization days are built into the itinerary
- Trekking pace is slower due to extreme altitude and terrain
Walking times depend on weather conditions, group pace, and acclimatization needs. Your guide will ensure appropriate pacing with regular breaks.
What type of accommodation is provided?

In Kathmandu: Three-star hotel accommodation on a twin-sharing basis (breakfast included). In Nepalgunj: Hotel accommodation with breakfast included. During the Trek: Tented accommodation during the trek on a twin-sharing basis. Unlike other Nepal treks, Upper Dolpo requires camping throughout due to the absence of teahouses in this restricted wilderness area. Professional camping equipment and setup are provided.
And food?

All meals during trekking (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included. Our experienced cooking staff prepares nutritious meals suitable for high-altitude conditions. Vegetarian and special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Food is prepared using camping stoves and equipment designed for wilderness conditions. In Kathmandu and Nepalgunj, only breakfast is included. You'll need to arrange your own lunch and dinner in these cities.
What happens in case of an emergency?
Medical Emergency Protocol:
1. Your guide provides immediate first aid assessment
2. Satellite communication device contacts our Kathmandu office
3. Helicopter evacuation arranged if necessary (weather permitting)
4. Emergency descent to lower altitude as first priority
Helicopter Evacuation:
- Available from most points along the trek in favorable weather
- Costs approximately $5,000-$8,000 USD (covered by proper travel insurance)
- Weather dependency is higher due to extreme altitude and remote location
Mountain Kick maintains 24/7 emergency support with satellite communication capability and established protocols with helicopter companies and hospitals.
What medical facilities are available along the trek?
Medical facilities are extremely limited in Upper Dolpo:
- No medical facilities exist along the actual trekking route
- Basic health posts may be available in larger villages like Dunai
- Your guide carries comprehensive first aid supplies and emergency medications
- Helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu is required for serious medical emergencies
The remote nature of Upper Dolpo means self-sufficiency in medical preparedness is essential.
What essential gear do I need?
High-Altitude Camping Gear:
- Four-season sleeping bag rated to -15°C
- Insulated sleeping pad
- High-altitude mountaineering boots
- Mountaineering gaiters
- Extreme weather clothing layers
- High-altitude sunglasses and glacier glasses
- Cold weather gloves and liner gloves
Standard Trekking Equipment:
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- Insulating mid-layers
- Waterproof shell jacket and pants
- Warm hat and sun hat
- Trekking poles (essential for high passes)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles and purification tablets
Mountain Kick provides tented accommodation setup, but personal camping and clothing gear must be appropriate for extreme conditions.
What can I rent in Kathmandu versus what should I bring?
Available for rent in Kathmandu:
- Four-season down sleeping bags
- Down jackets
- High-altitude boots (limited sizes)
- Trekking poles
Must bring from home:
- All personal clothing and base layers
- High-altitude medications
- Personal electronics and cameras
- Toiletries and personal care items
Due to the extreme nature of this trek, we recommend bringing your own tested gear rather than relying on rentals.
What additional expenses should I budget for?
Personal Expenses:
- Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj
- Personal equipment and gear
- Battery charging (when available): $5-10 per device
- Satellite phone calls: $5-15 per minute
- Personal beverages and snacks
Other Expenses:
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal visa fees ($30-$125 depending on duration)
- Travel insurance with high-altitude coverage (mandatory)
- Tips for guides and porters
What communication options are available during the trek?
Communication is extremely limited in Upper Dolpo:
- No mobile coverage throughout most of the trek
- No internet access during the trekking portion
- Satellite phone available for emergencies only
- Radio communication between guide and base camp
This trek offers a true digital detox experience in one of the world's most remote regions.
What is the visa process for Nepal?
Visa on Arrival: Available at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu
- 15-day visa: $30 USD
- 30-day visa: $50 USD
- 90-day visa: $125 USD
- Bring cash (USD preferred), passport-sized photo, and passport valid for 6+ months
For Upper Dolpo's 24-day duration, the 30-day visa is required minimum.
What if I want to customize my trek?
Upper Dolpo customization options are limited due to restricted area regulations:

Private departures: Available for groups of 2+ people

Itinerary extensions: Additional acclimatization days can be added

Side trips: Limited options within the restricted area

Accommodation upgrades: Hotel upgrades available in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj

The core itinerary cannot be significantly modified due to permit restrictions and the challenging logistics of this remote region.
Are tips for my guides and porters expected? How much?

Our staff do not expect you to tip them. Generally, travellers tip them if they are satisfied with the service as a means of gratitude. Even when travellers tip the guides and porters, there is no fixed rate. However, if you like to tip them, follow customs of your own country for tipping (which, as we have learned, is 10 to 15 percent of total cost for most western countries).
Where will I get a visa to come to Nepal?

You can obtain a visa at your home country through Nepal’s embassy or consular office. But you can easily get a visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. You just need two passport-size photographs. A tourist visa with multiple entry for 30 days costs $40 while the same for 90 days costs $100.
How do I book a tour?

Click Book Now to enter your details and we shall contact you. You can contact us directly for any further information or to prepare a customized itinerary for you. For payment information, see our Terms and Conditions.

Essential Trip Information

Please make sure you take a travel insurance at home before arriving here. It is mandatory and you cannot take it in Nepal. Your insurance agent will know which insurance plan suits your travel.
It is advisable that you free up a few days before and after your trip schedule. For reasons beyond our control like flight delays, accidents and natural hazards, the itinerary may have to be altered.
For the Nepalgunj-Juphal flight, flights are always scheduled early in the morning in this region because high winds in the ThuloBheri Valley begin around 10 am, making later flights impossible.
Please inform us and our guides if you have any medical condition that might affect your trip. Please consult your doctor beforehand for any precautions you need to take and always carry medicines if you need them. However, our guides and local support staff have been trained in basic medical intervention and your travel insurance covers any emergency rescue or evacuation.
You may decide to alter your itinerary to some degree as long as there are no time constraints and everyone consents, if you are travelling in a group. Talk to us before embarking on the trip or you may also talk to our guides to see if we can arrange something. One thing we have learned from mountaineering all these years is however good you plan your journey, there are bound to be some improvisations to make our experience richer.

Packing Checklist

Must-Have Items:

Four-season sleeping bag – Rated for at least -15°C to -20°C for extreme altitude conditions
High-altitude mountaineering boots – Waterproof, insulated, and well broken-in
Down jacket/expedition parka – Essential for extreme cold at high passes
Daypack (35-45L) – For carrying daily essentials during long trekking days
Trekking poles – Essential for stability on high passes and steep terrain
Headlamp with spare lithium batteries – Critical for early starts and camp use
Glacier glasses with 100% UV protection – Essential for intense high-altitude UV exposure

Clothing Layers

Base Layers

Lightweight thermal tops (3-4) – Merino wool or synthetic for moisture management
Lightweight thermal bottoms (2-3) – For layering in extreme cold
Synthetic/merino wool underwear (5-6 pairs) – Extra pairs needed for 24-day trek
Sports bras (3-4, for women) – Moisture-wicking for extended trek duration

Mid Layers

Trekking shirts (4-5) – Long-sleeve preferred for sun protection at altitude
Fleece jacket or pullover – Mid-layer insulation for variable conditions
Windstopper jacket – Additional wind protection for exposed high passes
Trekking pants (2-3 pairs) – Durable, comfortable for extended wear
Synthetic softshell pants – Wind and weather resistant for high passes

Outer Layers

Waterproof/windproof shell jacket – Four-season rated for extreme conditions
Waterproof pants – Essential protection for high-altitude weather
Expedition down jacket – Rated for extreme cold, essential for high passes and camps
Nylon hiking shorts (2 pairs) – For warmer lower-elevation sections

Headwear

Sun hat/baseball cap – Mountain Kick provides complementary cap
Warm beanie/wool hat – Essential for cold nights and early mornings
Balaclava – Face protection for extreme wind and cold
Neck warmer/buff – Additional protection for exposed conditions
Glacier glasses with side shields – 100% UV protection essential at extreme altitude

Handwear

Synthetic liner gloves (2 pairs) – Base layer for hands
Winter fleece or wool gloves – Mid-layer hand protection
Shell gloves/mountaineering gloves – Waterproof outer layer for extreme conditions
Hand warmers (optional) – Backup warmth for extreme cold

Footwear

Waterproof light trekking boots – High-altitude rated, well broken-in
Sneakers/camp shoes – For rest days in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj
Hiking gaiters – Essential for keeping debris out in rough terrain
Sandals – For camp use and river crossings
Synthetic liner socks (6 pairs) – Moisture-wicking base layer
Heavyweight socks (5 pairs) – Wool or synthetic for warmth
Lightweight socks (2 pairs) – For lower elevations

Bags and Packs

Duffel bag – Mountain Kick provides complementary duffel for equipment
Daypack (35-45L) – For daily essentials during trekking
Stuff sacks/dry bags – Essential for organizing and waterproofing in tented camps
Pack rain cover – Protection during weather exposure

Sleeping Gear

Four-season sleeping bag – Rated -15°C to -20°C minimum (rental available for USD 25)
Sleeping bag liner – Adds warmth and hygiene for camping conditions
Insulated sleeping pad – Essential for ground insulation in tented camps
Camping pillow – Comfort for 24-day camping trek

Trekking Equipment

Trekking poles – Essential for stability on high passes and long descents
Headlamp with lithium batteries – Plus spare batteries for extended use
Water bottles (2 x 1L) – Or hydration reservoir system
Thermos – For hot drinks in extreme cold
Aqua iodine tablets – Water purification for remote areas

Personal Items

Quick-dry towel – Lightweight for camping conditions
Toiletry kit – Including biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste
SPF 40+ sunscreen – Critical UV protection at extreme altitude
Lip balm (2 sticks) – Essential for dry, cold conditions
Hand sanitizer – Hygiene maintenance during camping
Toilet paper – Not available in remote camping areas
Wet wipes – For cleaning when water is scarce
Swiss army knife – Multi-tool for camping needs
Kerchiefs – Multiple uses in dusty, dry conditions

First Aid and Medications

Personal first aid kit – Comprehensive supplies for remote conditions
Extra strength Excedrin – For altitude-related headaches
Ibuprofen – General pain relief for long trekking days
Imodium or Pepto-Bismol – Digestive issues from camp food
Diamox – Altitude sickness prevention (consult doctor)
Ointment – Blister and cut treatment
Personal medications – Bring extra supply for 24-day duration
Electrolyte tablets – Hydration support at extreme altitude
Throat lozenges – For dry air conditions

Electronics

Camera with spare batteries – Cold drains batteries faster at altitude
Phone in waterproof case – Limited connectivity but useful for photos
Portable power bank – Essential for device charging in remote camps
Adapters – Nepal uses Type C, D, and M plugs
Watch with alarm – Timing critical for early starts

Optional Items

Trekking snacks – Energy bars, trail mix, chocolate for long days
Binoculars – Wildlife and mountain viewing in pristine wilderness
Books or entertainment – For tent time during long expedition
Journal and pen – Document unique wilderness experience
Playing cards – Entertainment during weather delays
Hydration bladder – Alternative to water bottles
Pee bottle/funnel – Convenience for tent camping in extreme cold

Documents and Money

Passport – Required for restricted area permits
Passport photos (4 copies) – For permits and documentation
Airline tickets – International and domestic flights
Cash in small denominations – Limited spending opportunities but useful
Travel insurance documentation – Mandatory for extreme altitude trek

General Packing Tips for Upper Dolpo Trek

Prioritize extreme weather gear – Conditions are significantly harsher than standard Nepal treks
Layer extensively – Temperature variations extreme from day to night and altitude changes
Break in all gear thoroughly – 24 days with poorly fitted equipment causes serious problems
Pack for self-sufficiency – No equipment purchases possible during trek
Consider weight limits – Porter limit typically 15kg for duffel bag
Invest in quality – Equipment failure in remote conditions is dangerous
Test all gear – Practice with camping equipment before departure
Bring extras – Spare batteries, socks, and medications essential for extended duration

Important Note: This trek requires significantly more preparation and higher-quality gear than standard Nepal treks due to extreme altitude, remote location, and camping-only accommodation. Consult with experienced high-altitude trekkers and consider gear testing before departure.

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As one of the core guiding principles for Mountain Kick, we always give back to the mountain community in any way we can as a means of gratitude. The people who live in the Himalayas and share their homes with us deserve to have all their little problems fixed which seem very basic for outsiders but are commonplace in rural Nepal. The people lack proper access to healthcare, sanitation and education but a little effort from travellers goes on a long way to solve these issues. Mountain Kick has made it its corporate social responsibility to help improve the living standards of the local community. We make donations to their cause, organize social campaigns and programs and also have a few trips designed to mix a little volunteer work in your holiday.