Journey across Nepal's remote trans-Himalayan heartland, from the turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake and the sacred monasteries of Upper Dolpo to the ancient villages of Mustang, crossing multiple Himalayan passes above 5,000 metres along the way
The Upper Dolpo to Ghami Trek is one of Nepal’s most challenging, remote and rewarding trans-Himalayan adventures, linking the hidden valleys of Upper Dolpo with the ancient kingdom of Mustang. Traversing some of the most isolated landscapes in the Himalaya, this extraordinary journey follows ancient trade routes through high-altitude deserts, sacred Buddhist monasteries, remote Tibetan settlements and spectacular mountain wilderness rarely visited by trekkers.
Beginning in the remote Upper Dolpo region, the trek passes through Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to the stunning turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal’s most beautiful alpine lakes. From there, the route ventures deep into Upper Dolpo, crossing a series of high Himalayan passes above 5,000 metres and visiting sacred monasteries including the revered Shey Gompa and Namgung Gompa. Ancient villages such as Saldang, Tinje and Chharka offer fascinating insight into traditional Tibetan culture, where centuries-old customs and lifestyles continue largely unchanged.
As the trek progresses eastwards, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic and remote. High mountain plateaus, colourful eroded cliffs, vast river valleys and windswept grazing lands create a truly unique environment. The final challenge comes with the crossing of the formidable Ghami La Pass (5,694m), one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal, before descending into Upper Mustang and the historic village of Ghami.
This expedition-style trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking true wilderness, cultural immersion and an off-the-beaten-path Himalayan experience. Combining the highlights of both Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang, it offers an unparalleled journey through two of Nepal’s most remarkable restricted regions.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Upper Dolpo to Mustang Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nepal, transfer to hotel and permit arrangements.
Day 2: Trek briefing and preparation.
Day 3: Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj.
Day 4: Fly to Juphal and trek to Kageni (2,140m), approx. 3 hours.
Day 5: Trek from Kageni to Rechi (2,720m), approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 6: Trek from Rechi to Phoksundo (3,641m), approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 7: Rest and exploration day at Phoksundo Lake.
Day 8: Trek from Phoksundo to Sallaghari or Phoksundo Khola Camp (3,636m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 9: Trek from Phoksundo Khola Camp to Lhartsa (4,300m), approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 10: Trek from Lhartsa to Bhuchung Lamtso (4,700m), approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 11: Trek from Bhuchung Lamtso to Shey Gompa (4,343m) via Mendo Ding Pass (5,275m), approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 12: Trek from Shey Gompa to Namgung Gompa (4,360m) via Sela Pass (5,095m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 13: Trek from Namgung Gompa to Saldang (3,770m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 14: Rest and exploration day in Saldang.
Day 15: Trek from Saldang to Shimen (3,850m), approx. 7 hours.
Day 16: Trek from Shimen to Tinje (4,110m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 17: Rest and exploration day in Tinje.
Day 18: Trek from Tinje to Rapka (4,535m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 19: Trek from Rapka to Chharka (4,302m), approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 20: Trek from Chharka to Tulshikhola (4,450m), approx. 3-4 hours.
Day 21: Trek from Tulshikhola to Nakhem Khola (4,950m), approx. 7 hours.
Day 22: Trek from Nakhem Khola to Kharka Camp (5,050m), approx. 7 hours.
Day 23: Trek from Kharka Camp to Ghami Phedi (4,800m) via Ghami La Pass (5,694m), approx. 8 hours.
Day 24: Trek from Ghami Phedi to Ghami Village (3,520m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 25: Jeep drive from Ghami to Jomsom.
Day 26: Morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.
Day 27: Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
Day 28: Departure from Nepal.
Note: The itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather conditions, flight schedules, trail conditions or operational requirements.
Note: All tours are lead by a professional city tour guide
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nepal and Permit Arrangements
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a member of our team will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Your passport will be collected in preparation for obtaining the Dolpo Restricted Area Permit and national park permits required for the trek.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Trek Briefing, Preparation and Cultural Sightseeing (B)
After breakfast, attend a detailed trek briefing covering the route, permits, safety procedures and equipment requirements. In the afternoon, visit two of Nepal’s most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple, and Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (B L D)
Fly to Nepalgunj in western Nepal, a bustling lowland city close to the Indian border. This overnight stop provides easy access to the remote mountain airstrips of Dolpo.
Overnight in Nepalgunj.
Day 4: Fly to Juphal and Trek to Kageni (2,140m) | Approx. 3 Hours (B L D)
An early morning mountain flight brings you to Juphal, the gateway to Dolpo. From here, begin trekking through traditional villages, terraced fields and river valleys before reaching Kageni.
Overnight in a lodge or camp.
Day 5: Trek from Kageni to Rechi (2,720m) | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
The trail follows remote river valleys through increasingly rugged terrain. Traditional settlements and beautiful mountain scenery accompany the gradual ascent deeper into the Dolpo region.
Overnight in a lodge or camp.
Day 6: Trek from Rechi to Phoksundo (3,641m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
Today’s route leads to one of Nepal’s most spectacular natural wonders, Phoksundo Lake. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and snow-capped mountains, the lake’s vivid turquoise waters create an unforgettable sight.
Overnight in Ringmo village near Phoksundo Lake.
Day 7: Rest and Exploration Day at Phoksundo Lake (B L D)
Spend the day exploring Ringmo village, visiting local monasteries and walking along the shores of Phoksundo Lake. This acclimatisation day allows time to appreciate the extraordinary beauty of the area.
Overnight in Ringmo.
Day 8: Trek from Phoksundo to Sallaghari or Phoksundo Khola Camp (3,636m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Leaving the lake behind, the trail follows remote paths above deep river gorges and through increasingly wild landscapes as you venture further into Upper Dolpo.
Overnight in camp.
Day 9: Trek from Phoksundo Khola Camp to Lhartsa (4,300m) | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
The route climbs steadily through alpine terrain, crossing streams and open valleys beneath towering peaks. The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as altitude increases.
Overnight in camp.
Day 10: Trek from Lhartsa to Bhuchung Lamtso (4,700m) | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Today’s trek traverses remote high-altitude landscapes of rocky slopes, alpine meadows and expansive mountain vistas while continuing towards the high passes ahead.
Overnight in camp.
Day 11: Trek from Bhuchung Lamtso to Shey Gompa via Mendo Ding Pass (5,275m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
Cross the spectacular Mendo Ding Pass, one of the major highlights of the trek. Magnificent views stretch across Dolpo’s vast mountain wilderness before descending to the sacred Shey Gompa, one of the region’s most important Buddhist monasteries.
Overnight near Shey Gompa.
Day 12: Trek from Shey Gompa to Namgung Gompa via Sela Pass (5,095m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Another outstanding high-altitude day crossing the Sela Pass. The route offers exceptional views of Dolpo’s rugged terrain before descending to the historic monastery settlement of Namgung.
Overnight in Namgung.
Day 13: Trek from Namgung Gompa to Saldang (3,770m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
The trail descends through barren landscapes and traditional Tibetan villages to Saldang, one of the largest settlements in Upper Dolpo and an important trading centre.
Overnight in Saldang.
Day 14: Rest and Exploration Day in Saldang (B L D)
Spend the day exploring Saldang’s monasteries, traditional stone houses and unique Tibetan culture. This is also an important acclimatisation and recovery day.
Overnight in Saldang.
Day 15: Trek from Saldang to Shimen (3,850m) | Approx. 7 Hours (B L D)
Follow ancient trading routes through broad valleys and high-altitude settlements while enjoying expansive views across the Upper Dolpo landscape.
Overnight in Shimen.
Day 16: Trek from Shimen to Tinje (4,110m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
The route continues through one of Nepal’s most remote inhabited regions. Tinje is a fascinating village where traditional Tibetan culture remains deeply rooted in everyday life.
Overnight in Tinje.
Day 17: Rest and Exploration Day in Tinje (B L D)
A day to rest, explore the village and observe the unique culture and architecture of this remote Himalayan community.
Overnight in Tinje.
Day 18: Trek from Tinje to Rapka (4,535m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
The trail climbs gradually through increasingly rugged terrain, passing grazing areas used by local herders and offering expansive mountain views.
Overnight in Rapka.
Day 19: Trek from Rapka to Chharka (4,302m) | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Today’s route follows remote valleys and dramatic mountain landscapes before arriving at Chharka, a traditional settlement surrounded by spectacular cliffs and barren hills.
Overnight in Chharka.
Day 20: Trek from Chharka to Tulshikhola (4,450m) | Approx. 3-4 Hours (B L D)
A shorter day allows time for acclimatisation before the most demanding section of the trek. The route traverses open alpine terrain with increasingly dramatic scenery.
Overnight in camp.
Day 21: Trek from Tulshikhola to Nakhem Khola (4,950m) | Approx. 7 Hours (B L D)
The trail climbs through remote high-altitude wilderness, crossing glacial streams and expansive mountain plateaus as you approach the highest pass of the trek.
Overnight in camp.
Day 22: Trek from Nakhem Khola to Kharka Camp (5,050m) | Approx. 7 Hours (B L D)
A challenging ascent through rugged alpine terrain brings you to Kharka Camp, positioned beneath the towering Ghami La Pass.
Overnight in camp.
Day 23: Trek from Kharka Camp to Ghami Phedi via Ghami La Pass (5,694m) | Approx. 8 Hours (B L D)
The most demanding and rewarding day of the trek. Crossing the magnificent Ghami La Pass provides breathtaking panoramic views across Dolpo, Dhaulagiri, Mustang and the Tibetan Plateau. After celebrating the achievement, descend to Ghami Phedi.
Overnight in camp.
Day 24: Trek from Ghami Phedi to Ghami Village (3,520m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Descending into Upper Mustang, the landscape changes dramatically. Ancient cave systems, colourful cliffs and traditional Mustang architecture begin to dominate the scenery.
Overnight in Ghami.
Day 25: Jeep Drive from Ghami to Jomsom (B L D)
Travel through the spectacular Kali Gandaki Valley, passing dramatic desert landscapes, medieval villages and some of Mustang’s most iconic scenery before reaching Jomsom.
Overnight in Jomsom.
Day 26: Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (B)
A scenic mountain flight takes you south to Pokhara, where you can relax beside Phewa Lake and enjoy the comforts of the city after weeks in the mountains.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 27: Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu (B)
Fly back to Kathmandu and enjoy a free afternoon for sightseeing, shopping or simply relaxing after completing one of Nepal’s most extraordinary trekking expeditions.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 28: Departure from Nepal (B)
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight home, bringing your remarkable journey across Upper Dolpo and Mustang to a close.
The itinerary is intended as a guide and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather conditions, flight schedules, trail conditions or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All tours are lead by a professional city tour guide
Additional Information
Permit info: Special permits are required for both Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang, and original passports must be submitted before departure to complete the permit process.
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- Airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights accommodation pre-trek & 1-night post-trek in Kathmandu
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team (different budget options available)
- Basic teahouse/lodge/camping accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- Porters
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers during the trek, etc.
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on internal flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
FOOTWEAR
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
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FAQs for Upper Dolpo to Mustang Trek
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
20 Days
Upper Dolpo Region
Strenuous
