"Discovering Upper Dolpo: Important Information for Trekkers"
Dolpo is one of the remote regions of Nepal. There are only a few travelers in this region due to its cost, time, and difficulty to reach there. Despite all the challenges, it is one of the most rewarding treks . Dolpo is divided into three parts; Upper, middle, and lower regions. The Upper dolpo is also known as the inner dolpo. The majority of the population in the Upper region is made up of Buddhist and Bon communities, whose cultures are quite similar to Tibetans', and speak 'Khaam, a language related to Tibetan.
Overview of the Upper Dolpo
Trekking in Nepal's Upper Dolpo region can take 24 to 42 days starting and ending the journey in Kathmandu, the nation's capital. Travelers head west toward the high Tibetan communities in the northern Himalayan Dolpo area.A large portion of the hike to Upper Dolpo passes through the biodiverse Shey-Phoksundo National Park, making it a nature lover's dream come true. Upper Dolpo is home to many snow leopards. Travelers may witness these leopards on their journey.
Culture significant
With its centuries-old monasteries, chortens, and mani walls, the Upper Dolpo region offers a rich cultural legacy, shaped by Tibetan Buddhism and the ancient Bon religion. The Dolpoli people live a traditional Tibetan lifestyle with very little influence from the outside world. They migrate periodically with their cattle and are involved in agriculture, animal husbandry, and trans-Himalayan trading. Their rich oral traditions are celebrated with traditional dances, music, and religious ceremonies at festivals like the Phoksundo and Shey Festivals. They celebrate these festivals with great pride and honor.
Transportation required for Upper Dolpo
The upper Dolpo trek is quite challenging for travelers because of its remote location. The most convenient way is to take a flight from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu. The next day the trekkers need to take a mountain flight to Jhupal. The trekkers will begin their trek from Juphal the following day, crossing many high-altitude passes on their way to Shey Phoksundo Lake. A maximum of 28 days will needed for the Upper Dolpo Trek, which includes travel time to and from Kathmandu, Nepal.
Physical challenges during the trek
Trekking in Upper Dolpo is considered the most challenging trek for the trekkers due to its remote locations. The trek demands walking for long hours, steep ascents, and descents crossing high-altitude passes. It is difficult even for the experienced trekkers. The travelers will face many physical challenges as the route involves several high passes, steep ascents and descents, and stretches of rugged terrain, that make it more difficult for them. One must prepare physically for at least two months before starting the trek. It will be helpful for the trekkers.
Mental challenges during the trek
Along with the physical challenges, the trek offers mental challenges too to its trekkers. As mentioned above Upper Dolpo is situated in the most isolated region in Nepal that is secluded and with limited infrastructure and assistance. One must prepare themselves mentally to face extreme weather conditions, high altitude passes, and long hours of walking in a day.
Necessary Permits for the Trek
For this trek, a special trekking permit must be obtained and issued by the Department of Immigration. You need to acquire the necessary permits before this trek. The Upper Dolpo trekking permit costs USD 500 per person for the first 10 days. After 10 days, the trekkers need to pay USD 50 for each day. A separate permit is required for Shey-Phoksundo National Park which will cost USD 30. Therefore, you need to have two permits Upper Dolpo Trekking permits and permits from Shey–Phoksundo National Park.
Gears required for the trek
Trekking in Upper Dolpo is one of the most challenging treks due to its unpredictable weather conditions. You must prepare yourself with the right gear and equipment. Investing in high-quality gears and equipment for a successful and comfortable experience. Packing these essential gear such as trekking boots, sleeping bag, headwear and gloves, backpack, trekking poles, sunglass, sunscreen, first aid kit, water bottles with purifiers and all the necessary clothing items will make the trek comfortable in extreme weather conditions.
Trekking in the Dolpo region offers adventure seekers a lifetime experience, with its rough terrain, breathtaking vistas, and lively cultural interactions. One must prepare physically and mentally for a comfortable and memorable journey. Are you ready to embark on this beautiful journey?