The Upper Dolpo trek starts at Juphal, about 2,500 m, rises to Phoksundo Lake, then crosses high passes such as Kang La at about 5,150 m on the way to Shey Gompa. Most of the trek is spent high, and help is far away. Rest days and spare days are essential. This is general information, not medical advice.
How the route gains height
After flying to Juphal, at about 2,500 m, you walk to Dunai and follow the river toward Phoksundo Lake. These first days are a gradual build in forested country, with camps and villages rising slowly.
Beyond Phoksundo, the route crosses ridges and then Kang La at about 5,150 m on the way to Shey Gompa, with further passes on the way to Saldang, Tarap and the return. From the lake on, you are mostly high, with several nights above 4,000 m. Heights are approximate and vary by source and route.
Where the highest nights are
The highest nights are in remote camps near the passes and in the northern valleys, where villages are few. Exact heights depend on where the crew can find water and flat ground, so they vary by route and day.
Ask us how many nights we expect above 4,000 m for your plan. Where possible it is wise to climb high during the day and sleep lower. Because this route keeps you high for days at a time, your body has less chance to recover, so pace and early reporting of symptoms matter.
Rest days and spare days
Good plans build in rest days at places such as Phoksundo, Shey Gompa and Saldang so that sleeping height rises slowly. Use rest days for short walks, not long climbs. The rest day at Shey Gompa is also a cultural highlight.
Spare days matter just as much. Flights to Juphal can be delayed, and snow or wind can hold up a pass. We suggest at least two. If you want extra margin, we can add a spare day to your plan. Drink plenty of water, eat even when your appetite is low, and avoid alcohol on high nights.
Symptoms to take seriously
Mild symptoms include headache, poor sleep, low appetite and unusual tiredness. Rest, drink fluids and do not climb higher until you feel better.
Tell your guide immediately if you have a headache that is getting worse, repeated vomiting, unsteady walking, confusion, a wet cough or breathlessness at rest. These signs can become serious quickly. Descent is the most reliable treatment. This is general information, not medical advice, so speak to your doctor before you travel, especially if you have a heart or lung condition. Never ignore a symptom because the schedule is tight.
Descent and getting help
Upper Dolpo is among the most remote trekking areas in Nepal. Signal is almost absent, camps are days from a road, and rescue depends on weather. Descent from the far side of a pass can take a long time, so your guide plans a turn back point before each high section.
Carry a satellite device if possible, and make sure your insurance covers helicopter evacuation from remote areas. Tell your insurer the route and highest point. If someone becomes unwell, the first move is to go down, with help if needed. A restricted area trek must go with a licensed guide, and rules change, so confirm before you travel.
Common questions
How high is Kang La on the Upper Dolpo trek?
Kang La is at about 5,150 m on the way to Shey Gompa. Other passes on the route are similar, and heights vary slightly by source, so treat them as approximate.
Why are rest days important on Upper Dolpo?
Much of the trek is spent high, and rest days at places such as Phoksundo and Shey Gompa let your body adapt without gaining sleeping height. Our plans include rest time, and we can add a spare day.
What if someone gets sick far from a road?
Descend first and tell the guide at once. This is general information, not medical advice. Rescue depends on weather and signal, so carry a satellite device if possible and insure for remote evacuation.
