Dolpo Alto - Shey Gompa

The northern or upper part of Dolpo is usually called Inner Dolpo and has always had an aura of mysticism. The high valleys of Dolpo are some sign of the most remarkable in the Himalayan with sweeping views stretching to the arid Tibetan plateau. Trekking here offers a real adventure, in a remote, unspoiled part of Nepal that has remained largely untracked and unexplored.

We will arrive Jumla by flight from Kathmandu via Nepalgunj, from where it starts trekking. The first part of trekking route is not difficult and provides delightful walking before joining ancient trade routes and the steep ascent to cross the Kagmara La (5,225m), our entrance to upper Dolpo. The scenery begins to change with the hills becoming shades of red, brown and gray. Eventually you can hear prayer flag fluttering at the top of the pass, and the view opens up dramatically looking east towards the snow peaks of the Kanjiroba Himal and the five peaks of Dhaulagiri. We soon walk through the pleasant green pastures to the beautiful Phoksundo (Rigmo) lake. The scenery is outstanding with the deep blue waters of the lake contrasting with the weathered red and brown hills.

We cross over two high passes, the Bag La (5182m) and the Numa La (5148m). From the Numa La descend into the Tarap valley to the village of Dho Tarap. Our adventurous journey finally comes to and end at Juphal with an easy two days walk following the Bheri River.