# Upper Dolpo Trek: Nepal's Hidden Land

_Published 29 July 2026_

Hidden behind the Dhaulagiri range in north-western Nepal, **Upper Dolpo** is one of the most remote inhabited regions on Earth, a high, dry land of Tibetan Buddhist villages, yak caravans and ancient monasteries, made famous by Peter Matthiessen's book *The Snow Leopard*.

**Quick answer:** Upper Dolpo is a **restricted area**. The special permit costs **US$500 per person for the first 10 days**, then US$50 per day, and you need a licensed guide through a registered agency. Treks usually last **three weeks or more**, are run as **camping expeditions** and cross several passes above 5,000 m.

## Highlights

- [Phoksundo Lake](/places/shey-phoksundo-lake), with its turquoise water.
- **Shey Gompa**, the remote "Crystal Monastery".
- Traditional villages such as Saldang.
- Wildlife including blue sheep and, rarely, snow leopards.

## The route

Treks start with flights to Nepalgunj and Juphal, then walk via Dunai and Ringmo (Phoksundo) over the Kang La to Shey Gompa and beyond. Many itineraries continue through Saldang and over high passes before returning.

## Difficulty

Long, high and remote, with no lodges on most of the route. Previous high-altitude trekking experience is strongly recommended.

## Best time

Dolpo lies in a rain shadow, so it is trekkable in summer; May to October is the main season.

For a shorter taste of Dolpo, try our [Shey Phoksundo trek](/shey-phoksundo-lake-trek). See also our [Phoksundo guide](/blog/shey-phoksundo-lake-trek-guide) and [remote trek accommodation](/accommodation/remote-trek-lodges-and-camping).

## Frequently asked questions
### How much is the Upper Dolpo permit?
**US$500** per person for the first 10 days, then US$50 per day.

### Is Upper Dolpo a camping trek?
Yes, mostly.

### How long is the Upper Dolpo trek?
Usually three weeks or more.

### When is the best time?
May to October; it lies in a rain shadow.


Web page: https://himalayanhiking.com/blog/upper-dolpo-trek-guide