- Explore the hidden Buddhist kingdom of Upper Dolpo, restricted and untouched
- Visit Shey Gompa, Nepal’s most sacred Bon and Buddhist monastery
- Traverse three high passes above 5,000 meters: Kang La, Saldang La, & Jeng La
- Admire the turquoise beauty of Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s deepest lake
- Experience authentic Tibetan-style homestays in remote Dolpo villages
- Trek through ancient trade routes and surreal mountain landscapes
- Witness the unique Bonpo & Tibetan Buddhist cultures
- Rare wildlife sightings: blue sheep, snow leopards (if lucky), Himalayan vultures
28 Days
16
Challenging
Journey into the mystical land of Upper Dolpo, where time stands still and the mountains whisper ancient tales. The 28-day Upper Dolpo & Shey Gompa Homestay Camping Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure into the heart of Nepal’s remote northwest, crossing high passes, visiting sacred monasteries, and immersing in the culture of the elusive Dolpo-pa people.
Combining homestays in traditional villages with wilderness camping under the stars, this trek offers raw beauty, authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture, and sacred Himalayan energy far from the crowds. Highlighted by the pilgrimage to Shey Gompa, the “Crystal Monastery” at the foot of the Holy Crystal Mountain (Kang La Chen), this trek is both spiritual and epic in nature.
Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative from Osho World Adventure will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in and refreshments, enjoy a short briefing about the trek and necessary gear checks.
- Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu
- Meals: Welcome dinner
A scenic afternoon flight takes us to Nepalgunj, a bustling town in the southwestern plains. This city serves as a transit point for remote western Nepal treks. Explore the local market or relax in the hotel.
- Overnight at hotel in Nepalgunj
- Flight Duration: 1 hour
Early morning flight into the Himalayas! From Juphal airstrip, we descend gently through terraced fields and small settlements along the Bheri River to reach Dunai, the administrative centre of Dolpa District.
- Overnight in a local homestay or camp in Dunai
- Trekking Duration: 3 hrs
We enter the Shey Phoksundo National Park and follow the Suli Khola upstream through a lush forest of pine, oak, and rhododendron. A few ups and downs bring us to the quiet village of Chhepka.
- Overnight in tented camp
- Highlights: Forest trail, traditional villages
Continuing through dense woods and crossing wooden bridges, the trail winds through narrow gorges and waterfalls. We reach the peaceful campsite of Chunuwar, near Amchi Hospital (Tibetan medicine centre).
- Overnight in tented camp or lodge
A short but magical hike today. We pass a stunning waterfall (Nepal’s highest at 167m) and arrive at Phoksundo Lake, famous for its glowing turquoise color. Explore the beautiful Ringmo village, perched on a rocky hill above the lake.
- Overnight in camp near the lake
Today is for rest and adjustment to altitude. Visit the Tshowa Gompa, a 900-year-old Bon monastery, and hike around the lakeshore to soak in the serenity. Learn about the ancient spiritual practices of the Dolpo-pa people.
- Highlights: Bonpo rituals, lake vistas, cultural interaction
- Overnight at camp
Leaving Ringmo behind, we follow the rugged trail along the lake’s edge and descend to a confluence of rivers. We trek deeper into the wilderness, camping beneath fir trees at Sallaghari.
- Overnight in forest camp
The trail becomes steeper and rockier as we head toward our first major pass. Set up camp in the wide alpine valley, surrounded by snow-capped peaks—a perfect setting for stargazing.
- Overnight at high camp
A challenging climb over Kang La Pass rewards us with dramatic views of the Crystal Mountain and the Trans-Himalayan range. Descend into the sacred valley of Shey Gompa, known for its deep spiritual energy.
- Overnight near Shey Monastery
Take a spiritual pause today. Explore the ancient Shey Monastery, meet monks, or hike around the Crystal Mountain—a sacred kora site circled by pilgrims once every 12 years.
- Overnight at camp
- Optional: Meditation walk or personal retreat
Climb steeply over Saldang La, a high mountain pass, then descend into the culturally rich valley of Namgung, a picturesque village with traditional stone houses.
- Overnight in camp or homestay
A short trek brings us to Saldang, the largest settlement in Inner Dolpo. This village was once an important hub on the ancient salt trade route to Tibet.
- Overnight in homestay
- Highlights: Cultural immersion, traditional farming life
Walk through dry hills, yak pastures, and barley fields. The trail connects several remote villages with strong Bonpo roots and ancient customs.
- Overnight at tented camp or homestay
We continue along the Nagon Khola river valley, encountering ancient chortens and mani walls. Shimen is a quiet Bon village with unique customs.
- Overnight in homestay or tent
Trek across broad, open valleys where horses and yaks roam freely. Tinje was once an airstrip and a bustling trade stop.
- Overnight at tented camp
Today’s trail is remote and rugged, with striking views of barren cliffs and distant glaciers. We camp near yak pastures under clear skies.
- Overnight at Yak Kharka
Descend into the Tarap Valley, one of the highest human settlements in the world. Tokyu Gaon is a beautiful village known for its monasteries and elegant stone homes.
- Overnight in homestay
A short trek takes us to Dho Tarap, the cultural heart of Dolpo. With 40+ monasteries nearby, it’s a center of both Bon and Buddhist faiths.
- Overnight in local homestay
Relax, explore gompas, interact with local lamas, and visit the local school and Amchi clinic. A full immersion in authentic Himalayan lifestyle.
- Overnight in homestay
Leaving the highlands, descend through a scenic gorge along the Tarap Khola. Waterfalls cascade into narrow canyons along the way.
- Overnight at riverside camp
The trail hugs the cliffs, passing natural caves and tiny pastures. Laini Odar is a peaceful stop under rock overhangs.
- Overnight at tented camp
Our final full trekking day brings us back to civilization. Retrace our steps to Dunai and celebrate the completion of this epic journey.
- Overnight in homestay or lodge
A relaxed trek up to Juphal. Enjoy your last mountain sunset and thank the team.
- Overnight in lodge
Two short flights bring you back to Kathmandu. Transfer to the hotel and enjoy the comforts of city life.
- Overnight in hotel
Relax, shop for souvenirs, or explore Kathmandu’s temples and cafés. Optional guided sightseeing is available on request.
- Overnight in hotel
Our team will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey. Farewell from the Himalayas!
Cost Includes
- 27x Breakfast,22x Dinner,20x Lunch
- Accommodation included: 26 nights
- Kathmandu International Airport Arrival & Departure Transfer by Private Comfortable Car/van/ Hiace
- Farewell Dinner with Nepali Cultural Dance show
- Accommodations Twin Sharing Basis in Kathmandu at 3 to 4 Star hotel
- All kind of meal including breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek with accommodation
- Round trip Land and Air Transportation as per the destination and itinerary
- English Speaking experienced trekking guide. one extra assistant trek leader for above 8 pax group
- All official document process charges including Trek Permit
- Restricted permit, TIMS card.,Transportation, Wages, Equipments and all meals & Lodges for Porters and Guides during the trek
- One day sightseeing of Kathmandu valley
- Entrance fees are included with this package
- Down Jacket, sleeping bag, Duffel bag, First Aid Kit Box, Trekking maps
- One day free Yoga & Meditation Course in Kathmandu
- Government taxes & Other Applicable Fees
Cost Excludes
- International Airfare to and from your country
- Nepal entry visa
- Travel & Health Insurance- Emergency Helicopter Rescue Insurance (Most recommended)
- Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu – keep $ 5 to 10 for per meal in Tourist Restaurant
- Extra accommodation in Kathmandu in case of early return from trekking than schedule itinerary
- Any Alcoholic Drinks, Cold Drinks, Boiled & Mineral Water, Beverages, deserts Etc in Trek
- Unforeseen cost such as flight cancellation or delay, health problems and helicopter rescue in Trek
- Personal expenses, such as the phone calls, laundry service, internet, bar bills,Tips for trekking guide
- Entry/Admission – Kathmandu Durbar Square
- Entry/Admission – Swayambhunath Stupa
- Entry/Admission – Pashupatinath Temple
- Entry/Admission – Boudhanath Stupa
Notes
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travelers should have a strong physical fitness level
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
- You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.
What do I need to bring?
General
- 4-season sleeping bag (We can provide one if you need it but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffel bag
- Daypack
- Down jacket (Must have for mornings, nights and evenings, and for altitudes above 4,000 m; We can provide it if you need one but has to be returned after the trek.)
Upper Body – Head / Ears / Eyes
- Sun hat
- Wool or synthetic hat that cover the ears
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Headlamp
- Neck warmer
Hand
- Liner gloves
- Heavier shell gloves
Core Body
- T-shirts
- Lightweight expedition thermal tops
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Water/windproof shell jacket (Preferably breathable fabric)
- Synthetic sports bras (For women)
Lower Body – Legs
- Lightweight expedition thermal bottoms
- Nylon hiking shorts
- Soft shell and hard shell trekking pants
- Water/windproof trousers
- Casual pants
Feet
- Liner socks
- Heavyweight socks
- Waterproof hiking/trekking boots
- Light shoes/sneakers/sandals
- Gaiters (For monsoon and winter)
Medicines and First Aid Kits
- (Please note our guide will carry the first-aid kit bag during the trek. However we still recommend you to bring your personalized first-aid kit as well.)
- Extra Strength Excedrin for altitude related headaches
- Ibuprofen for general aches and pains
- Immodium or Pepto Bismol capsules for upset stomach or diarrhea
- Diamox (commonly prescribed as Acetazolamide) 125 or 250mg tablets for altitude sickness
- Anti-infection ointments
- Band-aids
- Lip balm (At least SPF 20)
- Sunscreen (SPF 40)
Miscellaneous, but Important!
- Passport and extra passport photos (3 copies)
- Airline ticket (Please make a copy and leave one at our office in Kathmandu just in case if you need to change the date of your flight.)
- Durable wallet/pouch for travel documents, money & passport
- Water bottle/bladder
- Water purification Iodine tablets
- Toiletry kit (Be sure to include toilet paper stored in a plastic bag, hand wipes, and liquid hand sanitizer, towel, soap, etc.)
Optional
- Adjustable trekking poles
- Favorite snack foods (No more than 2 pounds)
- Paperback books, cards, mp3 player
- Binoculars
- Cameras (Memory cards, chargers and also batteries)
- Pee bottle for men and pee funnel for women
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