Dolpo Region Trekking

Dolpo Region Trekking – Journey into Nepal’s Remote Himalayan Wilderness

Explore the Untamed Beauty of Lower and Upper Dolpo with Wind Horse Tours

Trekking in the Dolpo region of Nepal offers one of the most rewarding and truly off-the-beaten-path experiences in the Himalayas, evoking the spirit of how trekking once was in Nepal and across the greater Himalayan region. Tucked away in Nepal’s northwestern frontier, Dolpo is a land of stark beauty, high mountain passes, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and deeply preserved Tibetan culture. The region remains largely untouched by modernization, making it ideal for trekkers seeking isolation, authentic encounters, and pristine nature.

At Wind Horse Tours, we offer both Lower Dolpo and Upper Dolpo trekking itineraries—each a doorway to this mysterious and spiritually rich region.

Why Trek in the Dolpo Region?

Remote and less-traveled: Dolpo is one of the most isolated areas in Nepal, accessible only by foot or small aircraft. Few tourists venture here, allowing for a peaceful and immersive trekking experience.
Cultural heritage: The region is home to centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist and Bon traditions, colorful festivals, and time-honored ways of life.
Unmatched landscapes: Expect dramatic cliffs, barren hills, high-altitude lakes, and expansive views of the Dhaulagiri and Kanjiroba ranges.
Wildlife and biodiversity: Much of Dolpo lies within Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to rare species like the snow leopard, blue sheep, and Himalayan musk deer.

Lower Dolpo Trek – A Gateway to the Forbidden Kingdom

The Lower Dolpo trek follows ancient salt trade routes through high mountain passes and remote villages. The highlights include:

Phoksundo Lake – Nepal’s deepest and most stunning alpine lake, with surreal turquoise waters.
Ringmo village – A traditional Bon settlement near the lake with a centuries-old monastery.
Baga La and Numa La passes – Two challenging high passes offering sweeping views of the Himalayas.

This trek is moderately strenuous and perfect for adventurous trekkers with previous high-altitude hiking experience.

Upper Dolpo Trek – Into the Hidden Valleys of Shey

The Upper Dolpo trek ventures deeper into the sacred heart of Dolpo. This remote and demanding route rewards trekkers with cultural richness and spiritual depth.

Shey Gompa – A revered 800-year-old monastery nestled below the Crystal Mountain.
Dho Tarap – One of the highest inhabited villages in the world, showcasing Tibetan-style stone houses and yak caravans.
Kang La Pass – A dramatic ascent with views over the Upper Dolpo valleys and far-off Mustang region.

This trek requires excellent physical fitness, acclimatization to altitude, and a flexible, adventurous mindset.

Best Time to Trek in Dolpo

The ideal trekking season for Dolpo is late spring to early autumn (May to October). Since much of Dolpo lies in a rain-shadow area, it remains dry even during Nepal’s monsoon season, making summer treks possible and spectacular.

Permits and Logistics

Access to Dolpo requires special permits due to its restricted status: Lower Dolpo Permit, Upper Dolpo Permit (for Upper Dolpo treks), and Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit.

All our itineraries are fully supported with camping or lodge-based logistics, guides experienced in remote travel, and customizable routes based on your interests and timeframe.

Discover Dolpo with Wind Horse Tours

At Wind Horse Tours, we specialize in personalized trekking adventures to the Dolpo region, combining comfort, safety, and deep cultural insight. Whether you’re drawn by the mystical charm of Shey Gompa or the surreal calm of Phoksundo Lake, we’ll help you plan a journey that stays with you for a lifetime.