Upper Dolpo Trek

A camping expedition into the trans-Himalaya to Shey Gompa and remote Dolpo villages, crossing several high passes.

  • Duration22–28 days
  • Highest point5,360 m (Kang La)
  • DifficultyStrenuous
  • Best seasonMay–Oct
Restricted area. This trek needs a special permit through a registered agency and a licensed guide. Since 2026 single trekkers can get the permit too, but going with a partner splits the guide's cost. How restricted permits work.

Trekkers looking for partners

Trek Upper Dolpo with a local guide

Upper Dolpo is a restricted area, so a licensed guide is required. Choosing the right one matters as much as the permit.

An experienced guide isn't only there to show you the way. They know the families who run the teahouses and homestays, explain the villages, monasteries, festivals and food you'd otherwise walk straight past, help you talk with local people, watch for altitude sickness and changing weather, and handle rooms, permits and transport so you can simply enjoy the walk. Many trekkers say their guide was the best part of the trip.

Discover Parbat is a licensed local trekking company from Parbat, near Pokhara, with experienced guides who know these trails and the people along them. Trekking with a partner? Share one guide and split the cost.

Questions about Upper Dolpo

Trail conditions, permits and gear, answered by trekkers who were just there and our local team.

Ask about this trek