Upper Dolpo Trek

Trip Overview

Upper Dolpo Trek is another hidden destination of Mid-western region of Nepal with most tranquil and natural beauty. It lies in the Shey-Phoksundo national park. Trekking to upper Dolpo is great experience and not forgotten. This trekking is the natural embodiment high passes, rare flora and fauna and sweeping vistas. With more than 130 monasteries in the area the route passes through a predominantly Buddhist area. The famous Shey-Gompa of Peter Manthiessen’s The Leopard fame also falls in this region. There are Gompa or monastery in every settlement with some of the oldest monasteries in the Himalayan region of Saldang, Dho, Chharka and Bhijer. Some of these Gompas are more than 700 years old. On the villages en route Dolpo Heritage circuit the co-existence and harmony of both Hindu and Buddhist religious practices form an intrinsic part of the daily life of the people.

Highlight Overviews of Upper Dolpo Trek

Follow the footprints of the ancient trans-Himalayan traders
Explore the region in a dry weather without worrying about the rain
Amazing time on this trek around the turquoise water of phoksundo lake, Crystal mountain, and the views of Dhaulagiri
Catch a view of diverse flora and fauna in the Shey Phoksundo National Park
Get an insight into the life and culture of the followers of Bon Buddhism
Visit Shey Gompa, an 800-year-old monastery at the base of Crystal Mountain, immortalized in Peter Matthiessen's “The Snow Leopard”
Witness the spring hunt for yarchagumba—a bizarre caterpillar fungus highly sought after for its medicinal qualities

Trip Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu (1300m).

At the airport; you will be meet by representative of our company and transferred to the Hotel, where you will meet us. A pre-trek briefing will be held at approx. 6:00pm to 7:00pm in the evening and is a great opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow group members before heading out to dinner. Welcome dinner at the authentic and typical Nepalese cusine with culutural dance.

Day 02: Full day Guided Tour in Kathmandu with City Tour Guide

SWOYAMBHUNATH, also known as the monkey temple, is climbed by a long set of steps and has great views of Kathmandu.
BOUDHANATH STUPA has many traditional Gompas hung with strings of multi-coloured prayer flags; it attracts many Sherpas and Tibetans for the circumambulations of the stupa (koras).
PASHUPATINATH is a Hindu temple with burning Ghats on the banks of the Bagmati River.
KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE, which is one of the old capitals of the Kathmandu valley, has a blend of Hindu and Buddhist temples

Day 03: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj

We take the short flight to Nepalgunj in western Nepal; there are good views from right side of the plane as we fly close to the Himalayan Mountains. Nepalgunj is the largest city in the Terai with a hot and humid climate.

Day 04: Nepalgunj to Chhekpa (2,840m)

After an early morning start we take a 45 minute flight to Juphal the main airport of the Dolpa district. After an exciting landing at the narrow STOL mountain airstrip we meet the trek crew. After loading up our pack animals and final preparations we start walking through terraced fields to the Thuli Bheri River. We cross a new suspension bridge at the confluence with Suli Gad River flowing down from Phoksumdo Lake. At Sulighat our permits will be checked at the entrance to Shey Phoksumdo National Park, this is Nepal’s largest and the only trans-Himalayan National Park in Nepal covering an area of 3,555 square Kilometres. For the rest of the day we follow the turquoise Suli Gad, passing through thick forests of pine, fir trees and some giant red cedars. The hillside is covered with lush vegetation and it is likely you will see troops of langur monkeys. We pass the basic houses of Jyalhasa the winter settlement of the villagers from Ringmo. Further along we reach the grassy Campsite at Chhepka in a small Tibetan village, look out for the local women who wear Tibetan turquoise, coral and amber necklaces.

Day 05: Chhepka to Amchi Hospital (3,110m)

Today the trail switches over to both sides of the valley with crossings on good bridges sometimes we walk near the river and at other times on a narrow path high up in the gorge. We pass through forests of horse chestnut, larch and birch with several bamboo stands further up the valley. By the afternoon the valley widens out and we pass a river confluence, one trail follows Pugma Khola to Jumla whereas we follow the Phoksumdo Khola heading north where we soon we reach a bridge that leads to Amchi Hospital. “Amchi” is name for traditional Tibetan medicine developed specifically for the climatic and cultural conditions of the Tibetan plateau.

Day 06: Amchi Hospital to Ringmo (3,600m)

From Camp we pass Palam another deserted winter settlement then continue climbing for another hour to ridge at about 3,800 meters where we see the highest waterfall in Nepal flowing out from Phoksumdo Lake. The trail descends through a birch forest to the mud plastered chortens and mani walls at the entrance to Ringmo village, it is a short walk to the camp on the shores of the stunningly beautiful Phoksumdo Lake.

Day 07: Acclimatization day

Today we visit the nearby Bönpo Buddhist monastery overlooking Phoksumdo Lake and then explore Ringmo village. Bönpos circumambulate chortens or other religious structures anticlockwise rather than clockwise as done by Buddhists.

Day 08: Ringmo to Forest Camp (3,680m)

We enter Upper Dolpo beyond Ringmo where it is necessary to have the restricted area permit. This is a superb trekking day following the western side of Phoksumdo Lake along a narrow cliff trail, this is the “Devil’s trail” followed by Thinle in Erice Valli’s film “Himalaya Caravan”. The narrow path ascends to a ridge with spectacular views over the turquoise lake to Ringmo village and the peaks of Kanjiroba (6,612m), Norbung Kang (6,085) and Jhyarko Dingla (5,892m). We make a gradual descent through stands of birch trees to our campsite on the northern shore of Phoksumdo Lake.

Day 09: Forest Camp to Kangla Phedi (4,620m)

Leaving camp we follow a wide valley with braided tributaries of Phoksumdo Khola, after two hours of walking through pine and birch forest we pass Chunemba camp. This area is well known for producing a lot of Cordyceps sinensis also known as caterpillar fungus (Yarcha Gompa). There is a spectacular view of Kanjiroba Himal (6,612m) from Lar Tsa camp. We continue walking up the valley with sporadic juniper and azalea before crossing the river on a bridge. We then climb a scree slope on a switchback trail to a crest before descending to Snowfields Camp located next to the River; this Camp was named by Peter Mathiesson in his book “Snow Leopard”.

Day 10: Cross Kang La Pass (5,380m). Trek to Shey Gompa (4,400m)

Out of Camp cross the river then walk up grassy slopes to join the valley approaching Kang La. There are two passes one to the right is often snowy; in May 2010 we followed our mules and porters over the pass to the left. The trail is on loose, slatey scree so it is definitely a good idea to bring your trekking pole(s). It should take about 3 hours to reach the Kang La pass at an altitude of 5,380m; the panorama is spectacular with mountains in Tibet to north and huge massif of Dhaulagiri visible to east. The descent from the pass is on soft scree making for a rapid descent down to Hubajung Khola where we have lunch. Shortly after the valley narrows to a gorge made of stratified orange rock, after an hour we pass a long mani wall and soon Shey gompa is visible down the valley. Shey is located at a river confluence under Crystal Mountain so called because of the veins of quartz, this is the holiest mountain in Dolpo and known as younger brother to Mount Kailash in Tibet. Twice a year pilgrims make a kora (or circuit) of Crystal Mountain, according to the lama the kora takes them 12 hours. Our camp is located below the gompa in a grassy area with several herders’ huts nearby.

Day 11: Acclimatization day

Today we have time to explore Shey Gompa, relax and also do some laundry if you like. In the afternoon we recommend that you consider visiting Tsakang gompa perched on cliff an hours walk from Shey. You are likely to see several herds of blue sheep along the trail; this section is also part of the pilgrims’ kora of Crystal Mountain.

Day 12: Cross Saldang La Pass (5,060m). Trek to Namgung (4,430m)

Walking out of Shey we head east following Sephu Khola passing many mani walls, several isolated fields and doksas (seasonal settlements for yak herders). After one hour we take a valley heading to the north east that approaches Saldang La through a narrow gorge, this opens up to a bowl with loose scree in varying hues of yellow and orange. On top of Saldang La the panoramic view encompasses mountains to the north into Tibet, east to Mustang and west to Crystal Mountain and Kanjiroba. The landscape snow resembles the arid Tibetan plateau with narrow gorges as seen in Upper Mustang. The scenery is spectacular with folded strata visible in the rocks from the tectonic uplift of the Asian plate. Descend from the pass keeping left as the dusty trail traverses through hillsides with virtually no vegetation apart from a few isolated pin cushion mosses. The trail continues descending to a stream then contours further until you see the ancient red and white gompa perched on the cliffs above behind Namgung village. There are only a handful of stone houses in the village as well as a new monastery. Our Camp is outside the village below the entrance chortens and mani wall.

Day 13: Namgung to Dora Sumda (3,770m)

Out of camp the trail traverses high above Namgung village and there are good views back to Saldang La crossed yesterday. After a few hours of contouring we reached a crest where we can see Saldang village below and mountains in Tibet to the north, look out for eagles soaring high in the skies. The Dolpo-pa (inhabitants of Dolpo) lead a precarious life in this harsh environment trying to grow what they can from this high, dry land as well grazing large numbers of yaks and goats. To make up their shortfall in food supply they trade with Tibet using large caravans of yaks, in the past they traded salt for grain although nowadays is supplemented by manufactured Chinese goods and increasingly the profitable Yarcha Gompa collected in the area. In Saldang we will have lunch at Thinle’s house from the film “Himalaya”, in 2010 there was a lama in his fields carrying out a puja for rain. After lunch we take the high level trail to Karang village where the villagers will be busy ploughing and planting their fields. We descend to the valley level and walk along the river bank to our camp at Tora Sumda at the confluence of Wagon Khola and Panzang Khola.

Day 14: Dora Sumda to Mischa Gaon (4,200m)

Today is one of the highlights of the trek following one of the most culturally interesting regions on the trek visiting a valley close to Tibet rarely seen by other trekkers. This valley is very rich in wildlife, look out for herds of blue sheep, musk deer, Himalayan fox and snow leopard (in May 2010 we met an American group who saw a snow leopard an hour earlier). Shortly after Camp we cross the new bridge over Panzang Khola to the north bank. At Yangur village we will visit Dolpo’s oldest gompa surrounded by mani walls and nine chortens, after the village the valley narrows to a beautiful gorge with orange and yellow rock. It is not possible to follow the Panzang Khola direct to Shimen village instead we have to bypass this precipitous gorge by crossing Muri La to the north. Tonight we Camp in a field on the outskirts of Mischagaon village (or also known as Mugaon).

Day 15: Cross Musi La Pass (5,030m). Trek to Shimen (4,250m)

From Camp walk through Mischagaon village then start ascending the slopes behind on a good trail up to Muri La. Looking south-west there are a number of 6,000m plus peaks Tshu Kalpo Kang Serku Dholam and Tripura Thumba and from the pass there are superb views over to Dhaulagiri. There is a steep and loose descent from the pass so it is a good idea to bring your trekking pole(s). After dropping 500m we will stop for a lunch on a grassy area near a river, then from there follow a gorge passing a small waterfall to Chanpola Goth. Heading north from here there is a trail to Tibet where there is frequently trading between Dolpo-pa and Tibetans. Camp is in a grassy area next to a yak herders’ settlement, if you like you can do some laundry in the afternoon in the nearby river.

Day 16: Shimen to Tinje Gaon (4,180m)

From Camp it takes one hour to walk down the valley to Shimen village well shaded with groves of willow, this village has large areas of terraced fields planted with buckwheat, barley and potatoes. Look out for the new school and the mani wall over 600m long. The Panzang valley is one of the four main valleys that comprise Upper Dolpo, the others being Tarap, Nangkhong and Tsharka. After an hour we walk up a tributary river underneath overhanging conglomerate then climb up to reach Mendo Camp on a grassy shelf. Shortly you will see Pu gompa on the other side of the river, follow Panzang Khola for a further 1 ½ hour to our lunch spot next to Namygal chorten. After lunch the valley widens and after several hours we get to the hamlet of Phalwa inhabited by Tibetans where the men have red sashes in their hair. Soon after we arrive to Tinje, this is a major village in a wide valley with extensive fields with two gompas and an old fort. The famous Dolpo-pa artist Tenzing Norbu Lama was born in this village, at a young age he trained in the art of traditional Tibetan thangka painting. Now Norbu’s artwork has been exhibited internationally and through Drokpa, a nonprofit organisation, has been involved in helping to train villagers from Tinje to paint and produce handcraft leather goods. To get to our camp for the night we walk past the disused airstrip then descend to a grassy area by the river.

Day 17: Tinje Gaon to Rapka (4,550m)

Follow Panzang Khola past ruins of an old settlement on the other side of the river, after two hours we arrive to river confluence where we take the left tributary Kehen Khola for a further hour to reach our lunch spot in gassy area next to the river. After lunch we continue walking up left bank of Kehen Khola passing several doksas before arriving to Rakpa where we camp for the night.

Day 18: Cross Chharka La Pass (5,015m). Trek to Chharka (4,300m)

From Camp we walk up valley after ½ hour cross Kehen Khola, in spring we hopped over the river on rocks whereas in Autumn you should bring sandals as the water level likely to be higher at that time of year. At the confluence near a yak herder’s camp we take the left river Myantoku Khola, this valley then opens out to a wide floodplain with a number of tributary rivers that we have to cross several times. We start climbing to reach a cairn at 4,950m then the valley widens again with many yaks grazing on the extensive pastures. From here you should be able to see the cairn and trail climbing to Chharka La. It should take another hour to reach summit of the pass where we rewarded with a spectacular view, after a short descent the huge Dhaulagiri massif is revealed on the right. It is a further 3 hours walk to get to Chharka village, the trail contours high above Chharka Tulsi Khola several times descending then climbing out of side valleys. After passing the entrance chortens and the school you then enter the old village with narrow alleys and their courtyards filled with goats, horses and yaks.

Day 19: Acclimatization day

Today you can explore the village or just relax before tackling the challenging day’s ahead crossing Sangda La passes out to Jomsom. We will also visit the two gompas, Buddhist and Bönpo, representing the two religions of Dolpo. This day could also be used as a buffer in case of any delays experienced so far along the way.

Day 20: Chharka to Norbulung (4,750m)

Below Chharka village we cross Chharka Tulsi Khola on a metal box girder bridge and then at river confluence cross on a suspension bridge to follow left bank of Thasan Khola. The trail contours high above the river following a number of undulating ridges, after crossing a landslip zone we then descend to a grassy area for lunch (four hours). After lunch we continue walking up the valley where the gorge narrows and after two hours you reach doksa at Norbulung, if we time we might consider continuing for a further hour up to Molum Sumna in order to shorten tomorrow’s walk.

Day 21: Cross Sangda La Pass (5,515m). Trek to Sangda Phedi (5,100m)

After Norbulung Camp we pass through the high yak pastures of Molum Sumdo and then continue to a crest with a cairn at just over 5,100m. From here it is a further two hours to reach Sangda La walking across a grassy plateau with grazing yaks, we then start climbing the trail to the important Sangda La pass marking the boundary between Dolpo and Annapurna. The trail descends on loose scree to our Camp at Sangda Phedi next to Bheri Khola, this is our highest camp of the trek so it will be a cold night.

Day 22: Cross Lower Sanga La (5,035m). Trek to Sangda (3,800m)

From camp follow Bheri Khola for 45 minutes then contour up and climb the lower Sangda La at 5,035m. The mountain vista is superb over to Kali Gandaki valley and Thorong La plus a range of 6,000m peaks including Tongu Himal and Mukot Himal. There is a steep descent from the pass on a loose, slatey trail that crosses a crest with cairn at 4,800m then there is a further descent to a big rock at 4,500m. From here there are two trails one to the right is direct and steep that most porters will take whereas the longer trail to the left passes a waterfall then has a short climb to a saddle. From here descend to a grassy plateau with pine trees then turn right along a new trail that is exposed in places to the new suspension bridge at 3,900m. We will have lunch by the bridge, this morning’s walk should take 3 ½ to 4 hours from camp. After lunch there is steep climb then the trail traverses high above Kyalunpa Khola, after an hour we cross a crest with prayer flags at 4,150m. We descend through a steep gulley to cross the first tributary river at 3,800m then we traverse for ½ hour to the second river again crossing on rocks. Soon after you will see the entrance chorten to Sangda village followed by a large wall around their fields, this is a compact village to maximise the amount of fields. Look over to the other side of the valley and you will see the deserted remains of two villages abandoned when their water supply dried up, this brings home the precarious nature of living in this area. We set up camp in the school ground above Sangda village.

Day 23: Sangda to Dhagarjun (3,280m)

From Sangda we start climbing to the first ridge at 4,050m then traverse to the second ridge at 4,120m. The trail descends into a U shaped hanging valley full of grazing yaks looking up this valley there is the peak of Tasartse 6,343m soaring above. The water supply for Sangda village is taken from the stream in this valley. After an hour and half you reach a third ridge at 4,250m, from here it is worth taking a look back up the valley where you can now see both higher and lower Sangda La passes crossed over the last few days. It is a further ½ hour to the fourth ridge where there is a good view of Kali Gandaki valley and Thorong Peak. At the tenth ridge or Jeula Danda you get a spectacular vista encompassing Thorong Peak, Nilgiri and Annapurna. It is worth walking 100m to a cairn above his pass to get views into Upper Mustang as well as down to Muktinath and Kagbeni. From here we have a long traverse heading south. We descend to a river gorge then continue to eleventh ridge where we have views of the green fields of Dhagarjun where we camp tonight. As there is no water source for a lunch spot we will take a pack lunch for today’s walk.

Day 24: Dhagarjun to Jomsom (2,670m)

We climb up to one further pass before heading down to Jomsom located on the ever popular Annapurna Circuit. In Jomsom we stay in the Snowland Hotel this is the best place in town located opposite the airport. After hot showers you can explore Jomsom, check emails then in the evening the cooks will produce a special last meal together. Later on we will hand out tips to our crew as a thank you for all their hard work throughout the trek.

Day 25: Jomsom to Pokhara

An early morning we will take a short picturesque flight to Pokhara. The view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains and world’s deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki is stunning. Relax whole day in Hotel or wander around Lake Side with fascinating mountains panorama view and nature charming. Explore the various interesting places like Mahendra Cave, David’s fall and the various lakes of course.

Day 26: Pokhara to Kathmandu

Explore Pokhara valley until afternoon. Fly back to Kathmandu in the afternoon. Enjoy the mountain views. Upon arrival in Kathmandu transfer to Hotel.

Day 27: Free day in Kathmandu for self shopping and other activities

Day 28: Transfer to Kathmandu International airport for departure

Cost Include

Airport pick up/drops on private vehicles
Full day Sightseeing in Kathmandu valley with all entrance and monuments fees.
4 nights Hotel accomodation in Kathmandu at twin sharing room on BB plan (Bed & Breakfast)
1 Night Hotel accomodation in Nepalgunj at twin sharing room on BB plan (Bed & Breakfast)
Domestic airfare: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, Jomsom to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu
Completely camping trekking with full board i.e. breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Twin sharing tented accommodation and camping equipments and Kitchen equipments
Mattress, Toilet tent, shower, Dinning tent, dining tables, chairs etc.
Phoksundo National Park entrance fees
Special permit of Lower Dolpo and Upper Dolpo
First aid and medical kits
English Speaking Trekking Guide, Assistant Guide, Cook, assistant cook and Porters
Accidental and medical Insurance of Nepalese staffs
All government taxes and official charges.

Cost Non-Includes

Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj
Rescue/ emergence and insurance cost
Beverage and hard drinks and alcohol
Nepal entry visa fee and airport tax during the departure.
Personal equipments and personal expenses.
In case of natural calamities i.e. political unrest, cancellation of flight due to weather, landslides etc the extra charge should be born by themselves.

Departure Date and Cost

The cost mentioned in our website are the cost from 6 to 10 peoples in a group for Upper Dolpo Trek 2022. This trip can be organized private trip also depending on group size and minimum of two people upon your request. A group booking of 12 or more people is subjected to a maximum discount with the availability of free trip to one person. Most of our clients have the different queries with their favor date. However, our cost are depend upon:-

The trip cost depend upon on group size
Hotel accommodation category and client’s budget
This trekking itinerary can be modified according to your time and requirements.
Price shall be adjusted in our mutual understanding, if the client intends to add some extra services.
The cost is also affected by Trekking Guides, Assistant Guides and extra porter.

Terms & Conditions

Please take the time to read and understand the terms and conditions of booking set out below prior to booking a trip with us. We strongly recommend that you also read the website’s Essential Trip Information relating to your trip prior to booking to ensure that you understand the itinerary, style and physical demands of the trip you are undertaking.

Risk & Liability

We are committed to provide the best services which will give you a once in a life time journey. Ethic Himalaya Treks & Expedition (P) Ltd always puts all its efforts honestly and seriously in making your journey smooth and pleasant. All the services will be provided as per the agreement between you and us in the time of booking. However, there are strictly running under their own policies and Tourism Authority. As the terms and condition of booking, you must accept these risks and be responsible for your own actions and involvement. It requires an open and flexible attitude. You may experience extreme conditions, unpredictable weather and last minute changes to the itinerary beyond our control. Lack of acclimatization to high altitudes could also be a risk factor. The majority of our trips are in the remote areas, where you are away from normal emergency services and medical facilities. In case of a serious injury requiring hospitalization, it has to be accepted by you, evacuation could take up to several days and may impede your ensuing recovery. Helicopters are the most usual means of evacuation in Nepal, however they are not always available or they may be hindered by poor weather and flying conditions. So, we shall not be responsibility for any change or cancellation of programme due to unavoidable circumstance such as Government restriction, Land slide, road blockage, flood, avalanches, political unrest, and cancellation of flight, delay, sickness or accident, breakdown of vehicle. Any extra cost incurring there of shall be borne by the clients on the spots. So, we strongly recommend it covers cancellation, curtailment, personal liability and loss of luggage and personal effects. You must provide proof of your travel insurance on the first day of your trip; you will not be able to join the trip without it.

The Team

Nepal Government certified English-speaking Trekking Guide of Ethic Himalaya. He is your guide from your arrival in Kathmandu until your departure. He is in charge of the success of your trip, so don't hesitate to ask him questions and above all to follow his advice.

The Sirdar (Sardar) is responsible for the entire team. Very often he started as a porter, then a kitchen boy, then sometimes a cook and is respected by the whole team.
The Cook (only for tent trekking) is the cook: responsible for all meals.
Kitchen-boy (only for tent trekking): assistant cook, their number varies according to the size of the group. He helps the cook in a very active way, and this is the obligatory step before one day becoming a cook.
Sherpa: not always of the Sherpa ethnic group, he is responsible for actively helping clients. Their number varies depending on the size of the group.
Porters: Nepal being a mountain country, the tradition of human porterage dates back to the dawn of time and continues today. At the same time, many porters who work for agencies ask for more than 25 kg in order to be better paid. We are committed to ensuring that for each kilo over 25 kg, additional remuneration is paid to the bearer. But in order to avoid abuse, and especially loads over 25/30 kg, we ask you to make an effort as well as regards the weight of your bag which will go on the backs of the porters.

Food

For a camping trekking in Nepal, we provide tasty and nutritional food. We make sure there is more than enough quantity of food as trekkers will be hungry after a long day on the trail. We have expanded the list of ingredients provided to the cooks so they have more to work with. We dehydrate a large number of different vegetables in Kathmandu before departure. We feed the local organic vegetables in the village.

For breakfast; we provide porridge or cereal, toast or chapatis and eggs. There will be hot drinks including tea, herbal teas, hot chocolate and coffee. We provide fresh coffee from our Bialetti Moka coffee machine.

For lunch; we stop at a convenient spot with water at the side of the trail. The cook and kitchen walk ahead of the group in the morning and lunch should be ready shortly after our arrival. After lunch we have time to relax before starting to walk again in the afternoon.

For Dinner; on arrival at camp in the afternoon you have biscuits and a hot drink such as tea or coffee. Around 6pm, we serve a three course meal in the mess tent. The starter is often soup with popcorn or poppadoms. We have a range of main dishes and carbohydrates including rice, potatoes or pasta. We cater for a variety of dietary requirements. Our meals are suitable for vegetarians. If there is a meat dish then we also provide vegetarian options as standard. During booking we find out if you have any dietary needs and agree upon meal plans before departure. If you have any questions about the food provided please get in touch with us to discuss further.

Important: If you follow a specific diet, have dietary restrictions or have specific allergies, do not hesitate to tell, when you book the trip with us. Our teams in the field will do their best to meet your request, but be aware that certain local constraints do not allow us to guarantee you a wide variety of alternative menus. For trips involving a large energy expenditure, we invite you to anticipate by possibly planning more groceries (energy bars, dried fruits, chocolates etc.) to ensure sufficient caloric intake.

Drinks

During the trek, tea is served with meals. Two cups of tea are included per meal. Additional cups of tea and other beverages, including mineral water, are the responsibility of the participants. You can fill your gourds with water in the lodges, but it is essential to treat it with purifying tablets. Avoid buying plastic bottles, which then have to be recycled. You can buy already treated water (safe drinking water) in the villages, which limits the problem of bottles.

Transportation

Transportation within Kathmandu valley is done with private vehicle depending upon the group size. Transportation in the trekking periods, you will have Porters who will carry your baggage for the day. We provide one porter for 2 members.

Transfers by minibus or privatized bus for road trips within the country.
Domestic airline
Private bus until the start of the trek.
Porters during the trek: you only carry your day's clothes.

We would like to draw your attention to the fact that wearing a seat belt is compulsory at the front as well as at the rear in all the vehicles that you will use during the trip, when they are equipped, and whatever the regulations in force in the country visited. You agree to comply with this obligation. Ethic Himalaya cannot be held liable in the event of bodily injury and material damage if it turns out that this provision was not respected by you.

Accommodation

In Kathmandu: accommodation in a three-star hotel (local standard), double room basis.

In all the lodges, the sanitary facilities remain the most rustic part! Paying showers, but often lukewarm, as heated only by solar energy. Bring light sandals, hygiene being ... local. Heating water for showers takes a lot of energy. Above 3,000m, you can order basins of hot water, which consume less energy, which will undoubtedly also prevent you from catching a cold! Separate toilets or in the lodge.

Some lodges in the Dolpo Region do not have electricity. In the lodges which have electricity, it is possible to charge the batteries (for a fee, but only a few rupees) and sometimes a low-speed Wi-Fi connection (for a fee). For the last night before the pass, night in a tent if "the lodge" is full. This accommodation is the most rustic of the whole route. No shower available, dirt floor. Lodge owners refuse advance reservations for single rooms.

What you Carry

Your baggage will be carried by porters and is not available to you during the day. Your daypack should contain all that you need during the day. This generally consists of warm clothing, water bottle, camera gear, sunscreen, lip salve etc. Your guide will let you know each evening of any extra items you will need for the following day. If you have a comfortable daypack you load will only be a few kilograms and hardly noticeable.

Program Change/Delay

The itineraries or prgromme that we have mentioned can change without notice due to unavoidable circumstances beyond our control like weather hazards, Landslides, political unrest, road blockage, avalanches, sudden sickness, etc. The program can be customized as per the interest of the clients and if there will be cancellation of your trip due to unavoidable circumstances like war, natural disasters, political unrest, bad climate etc, Ethic Himalaya Treks & Expedition P. Ltd would be happy to refer you alternative trip of a similar standard. We keep it preserve for your next time but not longer than one year.

Before departure: If we make a major change we will inform you as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before departure. The definition of a major change is deemed to be a change affecting at least one day in five of the itinerary. When a major change is made you may choose between accepting the change, obtaining a refund of money paid on the land portion of the trip only or accepting an alternative tour offered.

After departure: We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or events outside of our control. In such emergency circumstances the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itinerary such as visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights.

Deposit Requirement

For Upper Dolpo Trek, You are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of USD $ 200 per person per trip for your booking to be confirmed. If your booking is made within 45 days of the departure date then the full amount is payable at the time of booking. You can pay the remaining amount before or upon your arrival to Nepal before the trip departure. The non-refundable deposit should be sent to the Company or its Agent. If deposit is different from that outlined in this clause, you will be advised by the company at the time of booking. Booking deposit can be made by bank transfer or by Credit Card (Visa or MasterCard). Please follow the information provided on the booking form.

Final Payment / Acceptance of Booking/Client Details

Final payment for Upper Dolpo Trek in Nepal can be made upon arrival in Nepal. Final payment can be made by bank transfer, travel check, cash or by Credit Card (Visa or Master Card). There is 4% surcharge when the payment is made by cards (this applies to all payments; deposits, final balances, trip extension and miscellaneous purchases.)

Price Changing

We reserve the right to revise pricing rate, if it is posted in our marketing material and website under any circumstances or on the pressure of various external factors that are further than our control for instance changes in exchange rate, government action etc. Most of the time Domestic flight fare is changing due to fuel price hike up. We always try our best to make a present price in our treks/tours.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Once you have paid your deposit your trip is confirmed, subject to payment of the balance of fees owing 90 days prior to your trip commencement date. Our member may then cancel his/her participation on the following basis:

Before 45 days or more prior to departure: We will retain the deposit
Between 45 to 31 days prior to arrival: 30% of the total tour price
Between 30 to 14 days prior to arrival: 40% of the total tour price
Between 14 to 09 days prior to arrival: 70% of the total tour price
Between 08 to 02 days prior to arrival: 80% of the total tour price
Less than 48 hours before arrival : 90% of the total tour price

Cancellation by Us

We may cancel a trip at any time up to 56 days before departure, subject to clause 14. We may cancel a trip at any time prior to departure if, due to terrorism, natural disasters, political instability or other external events, it is not viable for us to operate the planned itinerary. If we cancel your trip, you can transfer amounts paid to an alternate departure date or alternatively receive a full refund. In circumstances where the cancellation is due to external events outside our reasonable control, refunds will be less any unrecoverable costs. We are not responsible for any incidental expenses that you may have incurred as a result of your booking including but not limited to visas, vaccinations, and travel insurance excess or non-refundable flights. Please note that different cancellation conditions may apply to some styles of trips, your booking consultant will advise if differences apply.

Booking Amendments

If you wish to transfer from one trip to another or transfer you’re booking to a third party you must notify us at least 45 days prior to the proposed departure date. A fee of USD $ 200 per person per change will apply (in addition to any charges levied by hotels, ground operators or airlines). If you notify us less than 45 days prior to the proposed departure date the refund policy applicable to cancellations will apply. Transfers to a third party are only permitted where the transferee meets all the requirements in relation to the trip, and transfers to another departure can only be made to a departure within the current validity period.

Amendments to any other arrangements made in conjunction with your trip will incur $ 100 administration fee per booking per change. This fee is in addition to any charges levied by hotels, ground operators or airlines. No amendments are permitted to your booking within 10 days of departure.

Medical Conditions & Special Requirements

The Company must be notified in writing at the time of booking of any medical conditions, physically challenged conditions or any other mental and physical condition which may affect fitness to travel and or any medical condition. Failure to notify the Company of any such condition that results in cancellation will result in 100% cancellation fees to the Client.

Health & Experience Requirements

Upper Dolpo Trek usually requires 4-8 hours of walking every day and some days even up to 8-10 hours- such as in high passes. Ethic Himalaya Treks suggests we get prepared with about 12 km of walking or jogging exercise every day before 3 months of our Dolpo Trekking. So we will be able to walk in physically demanding high-altitude conditions and remote areas for many days for hours at a time. To join Dolpo Trek and to complete it successfully and enjoyably, we must have: lots of willpower, ability to tolerate harsh conditions, very high level of fitness and good health. Medical and evacuation expenses are the responsibility of the participant. It is also important that we consult our doctor for vaccination and other medical requirements for our trip. Ethic Himalaya reserves the right to require a medical certificate prior to booking our trip.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory for all our travelers and should be taken out at the time of booking. Your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, death, medical expenses and emergency repatriation with a recommended minimum coverage of USD $ 200,000 for each of the categories of cover. Your travel insurance must cover accidents, injury, illness and death medical expenses, including any related to pre-existing medical conditions, emergency repatriation (including helicopter rescue and air ambulance where applicable) and personal liability. The Company also recommends it covers trip cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. You must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested by the company employees or suppliers. The company reserves the right to cancel or suspend your participation on a trip or in certain activities that comprise part of a trip, at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund, if you are unable to provide proof of insurance when requested.

Injuries & Evacuation

Ethic Himalaya Treks would not be liable for any injury/health conditions/emotional or other conditions suffered by the client during the trip. Similarly, our package cost does not include any personal insurance. Hence, we advise the clients to take adequate insurance packages, including medical emergencies and evacuation by Helicopter.

Equipments

Kindly brings a comfortable medium sized daypack to carry the things you will need during the day. This should have a waist strap or (better) a padded waist belt. Special items such as sleeping bags and down jackets can be hired or purchased in Kathmandu as well. But highly recommend bringing it from your own country.

Rain jacket or poncho
Water bottle - minimum 1 liter, aluminum or Nalgene polypropylene are best.
Walking boots - lightweight, waterproof and well-worn in.
Socks: thick wool/blend and thin cotton to be worn in combination - ensure boots fit such combinations.
Running shoes or sandals for morning / evening
Lightweight wool sweater
Fleece jacket
T-shirts – 5 -7
Shirt - long-sleeved
Pants: lightweight long trousers (jeans are unsuitable)
Hats - beanie with ear flaps or balaclava for nights (winter only) / peaked ‘French Legionnaire’ style sun hat that will give neck protection during the day
Gloves - wool or fleece (winter only)
Scarf
Underwear
Thermal Underwear (winter only)
Sarong - a multitude of uses
Sunglasses
Sun Creams
Bag liners - large, thick garbage bags to line and water/dust proof your duffle bag.
Money belt
Toiletries
Towel
Torch / flashlight - headlamp style is ideal
Lighter - for burning toilet paper and rubbish
First Aid Kit

Documentation

Trekking members need to provide us passport copies and passport photographs for trekking permits before your arrival to Nepal which you can send us by mail or by post box.

Complaints

If you have a complaint whilst on tour, trekking and expedition, you must tell to hotelier and to us on the spot. Unless, our company have been given the opportunity to rectify the problem at the time it is not reasonable to expect the company to accept the liability for any problem after you return back to your home country. If the complaint cannot be resolved there and then you should inform us in written within 30 days of the completion of your trip. Failure to follow this procedure may reduce or extinguish any rights you may have to make a claim against us.

Privacy Policy

Any personal information that we collect about you may be used for any purpose associated with the operation of a Trip or to send you marketing material in relation to our events and special offers. The information may be disclosed to our agents, service providers or other suppliers to enable us to operate the Trip. We will otherwise treat your details in accordance with our privacy policy.

Passport & Nepal Visa

All valuable clients must have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity from return date. Nepalese visas can be obtained from the Nepalese Consulate in your country or up on arrival in Kathmandu Airport.

USD $ 30.00 or equivalent foreign currency for 15 Days Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry.
USD $ 50.00 or equivalent foreign currency for 30 Days Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry.
USD $ 125.00 or equivalent foreign currency for 100 days Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry.

Visa Extension Fee

Tourist visa extension is done for minimum 15 days with USD $ 45 and USD $ 3 per day for additional days.
In the case of delay less than 150 days additional USD $ 5 per day as late fine.

E-Visas are available for most nationalities via the Government
Website: https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/on-arrival/IO01
Kindly print this form and bring with you. https://ccmc.gov.np/arms/person_add_en.php

Climate

Nepal’s climate is influenced by maritime, continental factors and has four distinct seasons. Spring lasts from March to May, and is warm with rain shower and temperatures around 22°C. Summer, from June to August, is the monsoon season when the hills turn lush and green. Nepal has diverse climate because of the topography which ranges from sea-level 75m to 8,848m the Highest Peak of the World Mt. Everest. The southern belts of Nepal Terai remain hot most of the year and temperature decreases gradually towards North as the altitude increases. Based on our experience, we have prepared a chart which shows the approximate temperatures at different altitudes in different months.

Upper Dolpo Trek - Ethic Himalaya

Overview

Itinerary

Inclusion

Cost & Dates

Terms