The Complete Guide for Ama Dablam Expedition
July 5, 2026
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Upper Dolpo is Nepal’s last forbidden kingdom a high, arid Trans-Himalayan region sealed off from outsiders until 1989. Hidden behind the Dhaulagiri massif in the rain shadow of the Himalaya, it looks and feels more like Tibet than Nepal: stark valleys, wind-carved cliffs, and villages where Bon and Tibetan Buddhist traditions remain unbroken. This is the world made famous by Peter Matthiessen’s The Snow Leopard and Eric Valli’s Oscar-nominated film Caravan.
The journey begins with flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and on to the small airstrip at Juphal, gateway to the region. From there the trail follows the Suli Gad gorge to Ringmo village and the shimmering waters of Phoksundo Lake, before climbing into true wilderness. The route crosses the Kang La Pass at 5,360m to reach Shey Gompa, the Crystal Monastery, then continues deeper into Inner Dolpo through Saldang and Namgung to the high desert settlement of Dho Tarap.
This is a fully self-supported camping trek. Teahouses are almost non-existent above Ringmo, so the expedition crew carries kitchen, dining, and sleeping tents for the entire route. Every permit, campsite, and river crossing must be planned with precision there is no room for improvisation this far from help.
The Upper Dolpo Trek is not merely about reaching a destination; it is about walking into one of the last places on Earth where the modern world has yet to arrive. It is a once‑in‑a‑lifetime journey that demands exceptional preparation but offers rewards that last forever.
(Overnight altitude: 1,350m) Meals: Breakfast Namaste and welcome to Nepal. The moment you step out of Tribhuvan International Airport, your expedition team is there to greet you. A private vehicle whisks you to our comfortable 4‑star hotel in Kathmandu. Today is intentionally relaxed. After long‑haul flights, you need rest, hydration, and a mental reset. We’ll ease into the adventure with a welcome briefing, initial medical checks and a casual team dinner.
(Overnight altitude: 1,350m) Morning starts with military-style briefings on route, weather, emergency protocols, and movement. Then a medical session covering AMS, HAPE, HACE, hydration, cold injuries and evacuation. Next, gear inspection (sleeping bags, boots, waterproofs, medical kits), plus duffel bag allocation, porter loads and permit confirmation. Logistics wrapped by lunch. Afternoon – cultural visit to Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple). A short walk up steps aids acclimatisation and offers Kathmandu Valley views. Learn Himalayan Buddhist culture before heading into Upper Dolpo.
(Overnight altitude: 150m) A one‑hour domestic flight takes us west to Nepalgunj, the lowland gateway to far western Nepal. The air gets warmer, the pace slows, and we enjoy our last hot showers and cold drinks before the trail. This is our final staging point – tomorrow we deploy into Dolpo.
(Overnight altitude: 2,140m) A short 35‑minute flight lands us at Juphal airstrip the true start of our adventure. The air is crisp and the mountains feel close. We lace up our boots for a gentle 2‑3 hour trek along the Thuli Bheri River. The trail drops slightly to Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpo. Tonight we camp and the expedition rhythm begins.
(Overnight altitude: 2,838m) A 6‑7 hour trek that takes us deep into Shey Phoksundo National Park. We move through dense pine forest, cross rushing streams on narrow bridges and pass tiny villages tucked into hillsides. The trail climbs steadily not too steep, but enough to remind you that you’re gaining altitude.
(Overnight altitude: 3,120m) Today the trail gets serious. We trek 5‑6 hours on cliffside paths with dramatic drops to the river below. The gorge narrows, and the vegetation thins. It’s exposed, beautiful and a little thrilling. We camp at Jharana, where the sound of waterfalls (Jharana means “waterfall” in Nepali) lulls us to sleep.
(Overnight altitude: 3,600m) A shorter day 4 - 5 hours but the reward is immense. We arrive at Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal’s most iconic alpine gems. Its turquoise waters are surrounded by sheer cliffs and pristine forest. We set up camp, then take a gentle reconnaissance walk along the shoreline. Drink water, rest, and let the altitude settle into your bones.
(Overnight altitude: 3,600m) A critical rest day. We take controlled acclimatisation hikes to higher ground, then return to camp. Medical staff monitor SpO2 levels, hydration and any signs of altitude sickness. We review our gear, plan the coming high‑altitude phase, and give our bodies time to adapt. It’s not a rest from adventure it’s a rest for success.
(Overnight altitude: 3,640m) A 5‑6 hour trek that follows remote cliffside trails above the lake’s western shore. The views back across Phoksundo are unforgettable. We gain altitude slowly but surely and the landscape becomes more barren and alpine. Camp at Sallaghari feels like a true wilderness outpost.
(Overnight altitude: 4,700m) Today we enter high‑altitude operational terrain. A 5‑6 hour climb brings us to Nangdala Base Camp at 4,700m. The air is thin and every step requires discipline. We move slowly, breathe deeply and stay together as a team. This is our launchpad for tomorrow’s pass crossing.
(Overnight altitude: 4,500m) Major expedition objective day. An early alpine start headlamps on, layers zipped. The climb to Kang La (5,360m) is cold, steep and utterly spectacular. At the top, the Dhaulagiri Range spreads out before you, with Crystal Mountain glinting to the east and the vast Upper Dolpo Plateau unfolding like a frozen ocean. After photos and high‑fives, we descend carefully to Shey Gompa (4,500m). This is what you came for.
(Overnight altitude: 4,500m) A well‑deserved recovery day. We visit the famous Shey Gompa (also known as Crystal Monastery), perched on a hillside with panoramic views. Some of us take a short reconnaissance towards Crystal Mountain. Others rest, hydrate and let our bodies recover from the pass. Medical checks continue we are still at altitude.
(Overnight altitude: 4,400m) A 6‑7 hour trek that crosses the remote Saldang La pass and drops into the trans‑Himalayan valleys of Upper Dolpo. The landscape is stark, beautiful and reminiscent of the Tibetan plateau. We camp at Namgung, a small settlement surrounded by barren hills and blue skies.
(Overnight altitude: 3,770m) A shorter day 4‑5 hours but we arrive at Saldang, one of the largest settlements in Upper Dolpo. The village feels like a time capsule: whitewashed houses, chortens and fields of barley. We camp nearby and enjoy the slightly thicker air at lower altitude.
(Overnight altitude: 4,200m) A 5‑6 hour trek along ancient Tibetan trade trails. The route is dotted with mani walls and prayer flags. We reach Yangze Gompa, a remote monastery that sees few visitors. The monks may offer us tea a simple but profound welcome.
(Overnight altitude: 3,940m) Another 5‑6 hour day through a long, remote valley. We share the trail with yak caravans their bells echoing off the hillsides. The landscape softens as we descend towards Sibu. Camp is peaceful, and the stars are incredibly bright.
(Overnight altitude: 4,900m) We climb 5‑6 hours back into high alpine terrain. Jeng La Base Camp (4,900m) is our staging point for the second major pass. The air is thin again but our bodies are more prepared this time. Early to bed tomorrow is another big day.
(Overnight altitude: 4,040m) A long operational day 7‑8 hours. We ascend Jeng La Pass (5,090m) in the cold dawn light. The views stretch across hidden valleys and distant peaks. Then a long descent to Dho Tarap, the highest permanent settlement in Dolpo. Stone houses, prayer wheels and a warm welcome. We’ve conquered our second major pass.
(Overnight altitude: ~2,100m – lodge or camp) Our final trekking day. We descend through lower valleys and along river systems. The trail widens, and the vegetation returns. We reach Dunai by afternoon the same place we camped on Day 4. Tonight we consolidate equipment, repack duffels and prepare for extraction. A sense of accomplishment fills the air.
(Overnight altitude: 1,350m) We retrace our steps: a short flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, then another to Kathmandu. In the evening, we hold a full expedition debrief sharing lessons learned, leadership reflections and favourite moments. A farewell dinner follows, complete with photos and laughter. You’ve completed a true Himalayan journey. Tomorrow, you fly home with stories that will last a lifetime.
Special Forces Leadership. Veteran Sherpa Experience. One Team. One Mission. One Trek.
At Himalayan Outdoor Project, every trek is approached with the same mission-focused mindset as an expedition. Founder and Expedition Planner Ex. Special Forces Maj. Rajiv Chand served for more than twenty years in the Nepali Army Special Forces, leading teams in complex and demanding environments where preparation, leadership, teamwork and risk management determined success. That same philosophy now guides every HOP trek.
Our treks combine:
The leadership, planning, discipline and risk‑management systems of Special Forces operations with
The mountain wisdom, resilience and experience of Nepal’s most accomplished trekking guides and Sherpas
This combination creates a trekking environment built on trust, professionalism, teamwork and safety – essential ingredients for the physical and mental challenge of a fully self-supported camping trek through one of Nepal’s most isolated regions.
PLAN. PREPARE. EXECUTE. RETURN SAFELY.
Successful Upper Dolpo treks begin long before arriving in Kathmandu and they end only when every trekker is safely home.
PLAN
Every detail matters – Route | Logistics | Weather | Equipment | Contingencies | Emergency response. Nothing is left to chance. The remoteness of Upper Dolpo and the crossing of Kang La and Jeng La require precise planning and self-sufficient logistics.
PREPARE
Preparation creates confidence. Every trekker receives guidance on: Physical training | Trekking systems | Equipment selection | Nutrition and hydration | Mental preparation for the high‑altitude challenge.
EXECUTE
In the mountains conditions constantly change. Our team adapts, communicates and makes informed decisions based on: Weather | Trail conditions | Team health | Individual performance | Safety considerations.
RETURN SAFELY
The destination is only halfway. Our objective is simple: Bring every trekker home safely. Safety First. Summit Second.
Most treks start in Kathmandu. Ours starts months before.
Physical Preparation
Develop the endurance, strength, and resilience required for 24 to 27 days in the Himalayas. The trek involves daily walks of 5 to 7 hours over rugged terrain, sustained altitude gain, and two major passes above 5,000m. Recommended training period: Minimum 4‑6 months.
Technical Preparation
No technical climbing skills are required there is no mountaineering, rope work, or need for prior expedition experience. However, trekkers should be comfortable walking on rugged, remote terrain with basic endurance and self-sufficiency.
Mental Preparation
Manage fatigue, uncertainty, fear, stress, team dynamics, and the psychological demands of a long, fully self-supported camping trek in one of Nepal’s most isolated regions.
Our team provides detailed equipment consultation and gear recommendations. Final equipment checks are conducted in Kathmandu.
Our trekking guides and Sherpas are not simply support staff.
They are your partners. | Mentors. | Teachers. | Leaders.
Many members of our team have extensive experience in the Dolpo region, with multiple Upper Dolpo crossings under their belts. Their knowledge of the mountains, weather, terrain, and high‑altitude decision‑making is invaluable. Experience matters.
Important: Upper Dolpo is a restricted area. A licensed guide is legally mandatory, and a minimum of two trekkers is required in a group (solo permits are not issued).
That is why we work only with highly experienced, government‑licensed trekking guides who share our commitment to professionalism and safety.
This trek is designed for adventurers who:
✓ Have previous high‑altitude trekking experience
✓ Possess excellent physical fitness
✓ Are comfortable walking 5–7 hours per day for over three weeks
✓ Are prepared for a fully camping trek
✓ Want to experience one of Nepal’s most remote and untouched cultures
✓ Understand teamwork and trekking commitment
✓ Possess the patience and resilience for a 24‑27 day journey
✓ Are seeking true solitude far from commercial trekking routes
Proper acclimatisation is one of the most important factors in successful high‑altitude treks.
Our strategy includes:
✓ Gradual ascent through the Suli Gad valley to Phoksundo Lake
✓ Acclimatisation day at Phoksundo Lake (3,611m)
✓ High camp staging before Kang La Pass (4,402m)
✓ Rest and exploration day at Shey Gompa (4,340m)
✓ Rest day at Dho Tarap before descent
✓ Continuous health monitoring
Every trekker acclimatises differently. The itinerary remains flexible to maximise safety and success.
The Upper Dolpo Trek is a fully camping trek. Teahouses are sparse and unreliable above Ringmo.
Facilities include:
✓ Comfortable expedition tents
✓ Dining tent
✓ Kitchen tent with dedicated trekking crew
✓ Communication facilities (limited satellite only above Ringmo)
✓ Team meetings and briefings
✓ Hygienic meals – breakfast, lunch, and dinner
✓ Rest and recovery facilities
Note: This is one of Nepal’s most remote treks. There is no electricity, Wi-Fi, or resupply beyond Juphal. Trekkers should come prepared to embrace complete wilderness self-sufficiency.
Safety is the foundation of every HOP trek.
Our safety systems include:
✓ Experienced trekking leadership
✓ Government‑licensed trekking guides
✓ High guide‑to‑trekker ratio
✓ Daily health monitoring
✓ Satellite communication
✓ Comprehensive medical kits
✓ Professional weather forecasting
✓ Emergency evacuation coordination
✓ Established contingency plans
Permits & Logistics
Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit, TIMS Card, garbage deposit, government taxes.
Accommodation & Meals
Kathmandu hotel accommodation, camping and lodge accommodation during trek, full board meals during trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner), welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
Transportation
Airport transfers, domestic flights (Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Juphal return), trek cargo transportation
Expedition Support
Trek leader, government‑licensed trekking guides, cook and kitchen crew, porters and pack animals, group camping equipment
Training & Additional
Trek briefings, HOP trek merchandise, trek completion certificate
International flights
Nepal visa fee
Personal trekking equipment
Personal travel insurance
Emergency evacuation insurance
Personal expenses
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Alcoholic beverages
Personal tips
Additional accommodation due to delays
Costs arising beyond our control
Comprehensive travel and high-altitude rescue insurance is mandatory.
Coverage must include:
✓ High-altitude helicopter rescue
✓ Medical treatment
✓ Emergency evacuation
✓ Repatriation
The Upper Dolpo Trek is one of the most remote and demanding treks in Nepal. Weather, trail conditions, and health issues may require itinerary changes. Flexibility, patience, resilience and teamwork are essential.
The trek involves walking 5–7 hours daily over rugged terrain, crossing two passes above 5,000m, and sustaining a fully self-supported camping expedition for over three weeks. The region has no electricity, Wi-Fi, or resupply beyond Juphal. Trekkers must be physically fit and mentally prepared for extended isolation.
Important legal requirements:
A licensed guide is legally mandatory
A minimum of two trekkers is required (solo permits are not issued)
Both Upper and Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permits are required
Permits must be obtained through a registered trekking agency
Our mission is simple:
Professionally Planned. | Thoroughly Prepared. | Safely Executed.
HIMALAYAN OUTDOOR PROJECT
Education | Experience | Excellence | Expertise
People 14 years or older can join the trip. This ensures everyone is physically capable and can follow safety guidelines.
The cash that you need to carry entirely depends upon the length of the trek and if you are opting to plan the trek with a travel agency or not. All the basic facilities like food, accommodation, porters and guides are provided by the travel agency if you go on an all-inclusive package with them. In that case, you need to bring cash only for your personal expenses, tipping and shopping.
Of course! Just let us know, and we can help with arrangements.
