Upper Dolpo to Mustang Trek
trip info
Duration
27
Max Altitute
Nangdola High Camp 5350
Difficulty
Moderate
Starts from
Kathmandu
Trips Ends at
Kathmandu
Upper Dolpo to Mustang Trek Overview
Upper Dolpo to Mustang Trek trial is one of the highest inhabited places in the world. Far away from the hustle-bustle of the modernisation, it is still a stronghold of the ancient Bon-Po religion. This religion existed way before Buddhism emerged on the Tibetan plateau.
Dolpo is strongly influenced by Tibetan culture. Apart from culture, it is home to a variety of wildlife that is not seen in the lower reaches of the Himalayas. But it is cut from the rest of Nepal, due to snowfall throughout the year.
The people living in Dolpo still practice the nomadic way of living. On the contrary, the inhabitants of Mustang practice both the luxurious and comfortable way. The main reason behind that is the famous Silk Route that goes through the Mustang region. It is said that the nomads living in the Upper Dolpo region still use the salt route to trade in Tibet.
Upper Dolpo to Mustang Trek is all about two wonderful locations – Dolpo and Mustang. Both are equally beautiful and unique but at the same time but slightly difficult to approach.
Trek Route
Firstly, the trek begins with an amazing flight over the Himalayas to reach Juphal. From here you will move forward to the Suligad River Gorge and then to the Lake Phoksundo. You will cross our first pass at 5000 meters above sea level to reach the holy Shey Gompa and the “Crystal Mountain.”
You then cross over another pass to reach Saldang.
(Note: This is the same village where the first Nepali movie “Caravan – Himalaya” was shot. Later on, it got nominated for the Oscar in the foreign films category).
Here you will have some days in hand to explore and get acclimatized. You can also get an insight into the lifestyle of the Tibetan people who would be busy with the Autumn Harvesting. From here we move forward to a more remote area in the Pansang Valley that includes Khoma, Shimen and Tinkyu regions.
The trails and mountain passes that connect these remote villages and hamlets are a treasure trove of cultural heritage. This is the sight worth not missing.
The Upper Dolpo region is also home to the Bhotiya Culture (ethno-linguistically tibetan people living in the trans-himalayan region) which in itself is a distinct feature of the place.
Mustang has remnants of the Thakali culture. There are many ancient monasteries one of which is Shey Gompa. Dolpo and Mustang seem so similar yet they are so different from each other in terms of the culture, the lifestyle of the people and the religious inclination of the inhabitants.
Upper Dolpo to Mustang Trek is a rugged mountainous region, dotted by several fortified villages, Dzongs or monasteries. Additionally, you can even see crystal clear lakes, revered mountains, and high passes.
All in all, Upper Dolpo to Mustang Trek is as exhilarating as it is adventurous. Passing the high mountain passes and going down to Mustang is an epic journey that each of the trekkers remembers for a lifetime.
Phoksundo Lake, situated at the highest point of the sea level, is another main attraction.
Highlights of this Wonderful Trek
- Trek to the most remote and least developed district in Nepal.
- Walkthrough the Shey Phoksundo National Park.
- Brilliant opportunity to observe the dazzling landmarks and geographical terrain.
- The wild and amazing diversity of plants and wildlife, counting the blue sheep and leopard.
- The ancient Bon-Po religions.
- Nepal’s First English subtitled movie on Dolpo – The Caravan which was nominated for Oscar award too.
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Itinerary Map
Itinerary Detail
What is Included / Not Included
- All airport arrival/departure transfers
- Accommodation with daily breakfast in Kathmandu as per the itinerary
- Guided Sightseeing with all applicable entrance fees as per the itinerary in Kathmandu
- Accommodation with breakfast in Nepalgunj as per the itinerary
- All Guesthouse, Lodge/Tented Accommodation during the trek
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunches & Dinner with Tea/Coffee) During the Trek
- All Private transfer as per the itinerary
- Domestic (Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Juphal & Jomsom – Pokhara - Kathmandu) Airfare and taxes as per the itinerary
- An Experienced GOVT licensed Trekking Guide & required No. of Sherpa Porters & Crew
- All wages, allowances, insurance, medical and equipment for supporting crewmembers.
- She Phoksundo National Park Fees
- Special (Protected area) Permits fees
- Annapurna conservation Fees
- TIMS fees & Local Province (Municipality/Village) Fees
- Trekking & Camping / Kitchen Equipment as per itinerary/necessary
- A comprehensive medical kit
- Welcome/Farewell Dinner
- All GOVT local taxes and official expenses
Himalayan Trekkers promises to manage the best, most comfortable and preferable accommodation available at every step of your travel.
Generally, in cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Nepalgunj we arrange basic three-star facilities for travelers. However, if available, you can opt for a more budget-friendly option or upgrade to a more luxurious hotel. Hence we can help you customize your stay according to your preference. All you have to do is communicate your needs to us at Himalayan Trekkers!
Although places on the trekking route might not have all the modern facilities, we will make sure to arrange safe and comfortable accommodation so that you can rejuvenate your energy. In general, hygienic and safe tea houses/local lodges/ home-stays with all the basic facilities are arranged for the guests’ overnight stay. But again you can, if possible, personalize according to your preference established through correspondence with Himalayan Trekkers customer services.
If your itinerary includes camping or you choose to experience camping during your travel, a proper camping-site will be pre-decided. If required, we also provide the basic equipment which is refundable. Please check the Gear-List for more information.
Meals
Breakfast is usually included with your B&B Accommodation within the cost that is evident.
For other meals in the city, you would have to pay separately. Often in the cities, you can choose from many different cuisines and varied food services. We can always help you find the right place to fit your taste.
In more remote areas within your trekking route, usually, there are not many options. But you can always find hygienic and well-prepared food. Moreover, almost all the meals during the trek are included in the cost. We can help you make changes according to your preference and budget, but only if choices are available!
On top of that, Himalayan Trekkers also organizes Welcome or Farewell Dinners as a symbol of warm greetings.
Please go through the detailed itinerary for more information. We are always there to help you travel to your heart’s content.
Why Us
- Guaranteed Satisfaction
- Transparent Price
- No hidden fees
- Experience of a More than two decade
- Personal Touch & Professional Service