DOLPO TO MUGU TREK

The Dolpo to Mugu trek in Nepal offers an adventure that goes beyond physical exertion. It immerses you in nature's beauty and Tibetan Buddhist culture. Shey Phoksundo National Park features majestic mountains reflected in Lake Phoksundo's turquoise waters. The area is rich in biodiversity, including the rare snow leopard.

Trekking through Dolpo allows you to experience the Tibetan culture. Villages like Dunai and Tarakot showcase a lifestyle unchanged for centuries, with fluttering prayer flags, ancient monastery chants, and warm local hospitality.

The trek typically lasts around 33 days, covers about 200 kilometers, and includes high mountain passes, deep valleys, and remote villages. Highlights are Shey Phoksundo Lake, Nepal's highest lake, Numa La (5,319m), Baga La (5,199m), and ancient monasteries like Shey Gompa.

Preparation involves physical training, obtaining permits, and packing essentials like good trekking shoes, warm clothing, and a reliable sleeping bag. A first aid kit and necessary medications are also important.

Move on the Dolpo to Mugu trek to disconnect from modern chaos and reconnect with nature and yourself.


Minimum travellers 2
Maximum travellers 10

Related Trip

Comments

Add Your Comment

Itinerary

  • 1

    Arrival in Kathmandu

    Upon arrival in the bustling capital city of Kathmandu, you will be greeted by the vibrant culture and stunning architecture that this city has to offer. Take your time settling in and perhaps enjoy a leisurely evening exploring the surrounding streets full of shops, cafes and local markets.

  • 2

    Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley

    Spend the day immersing yourself in the rich history and diverse heritage of the Kathmandu Valley. Visit iconic sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), known for its panoramic views of the valley, and Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu shrines. Don't miss the Bhaktapur Durbar Square where you can admire ancient palaces and intricate wood carvings.

  • 3

    Flight to Nepalganj

    This morning, take a domestic flight to Nepalganje, a city located in the western part of Nepal. As you soar above the picturesque landscape, you'll catch glimpses of lush green hills and meandering rivers. Upon arrival, explore this vibrant city that serves as a gateway to many tourist routes.

  • 4

    Flight to Juphal trek to Dunai (2159 m)

    On the fourth day of our trip, we take an exciting flight to Juphal, a small but picturesque airport in the Dolpa region of Nepal. This scenic flight offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys and sets the tone for our adventure ahead. After arriving in Juphal, we will start our trek towards Dunai, which lies at an altitude of 2,159 meters above sea level. The trail takes us through lush landscapes and charming villages and gives us an insight into the local culture and way of life. After a day full of exploration and natural beauty, we will arrive in Dunai, where we will rest and acclimatize to the altitude.

  • 5

    Dunai to Chhepka(2720 m)

    On the fifth day of our adventure, we embark on a scenic trek from Dunai, a charming village nestled on the banks of the river, to Chhepka, situated at an altitude of 2720 meters. This section of our journey promises breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside as we pass through lush forests and along cascading streams. The trail is well marked and offers glimpses into the daily life of the local communities, allowing us to appreciate their culture and hospitality. As we ascend towards Chhepka, we can expect to encounter the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this mountainous region.

  • 6

    Chhepka To Tapriza School

    On the sixth day, our journey takes us to Tapriza School, an important educational institution in the area. This trek not only provides an opportunity for physical activity, but also allows us to engage with local students and educators. The trail offers gentle inclines and stunning views that make every step rewarding. As we approach Tapriza School, we will have the opportunity to interact with community members dedicated to supporting education in this remote location. This visit will enhance our understanding of the challenges they face and their determination to care for future generations amidst the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas.

  • 7

    Short stage to Ringmo

    On day 7, we take an exciting trek to the charming village of Ringmo, surrounded by mountains and valleys. The path is full of vibrant wild flowers and amazing views. We meet friendly locals who share their culture and traditions.

  • 8

    Unearthly beauty Phoksundo Lake

    On day eight, we visit Lake Phoksundo, a stunning glacial lake in Nepal, known for its turquoise waters and dramatic backdrop. The path through rugged terrain and dense forests offers breathtaking views, towering cliffs and snow-capped mountains reflecting off the water.

  • 9

    Fantastic way through steep cliffs

    The stage is a spectacular part of the Nepal hiking route as we walk along a narrow, hand-hewn path up the steep rock face west of Phoksundo Lake. We arrive at the northern end of the lake and camp on the Phoksundo Khola road for 6-7 hours. The rest of the trek depends on our acclimatization and road conditions.

  • 10

    Various possibilities

    Shey Gompa suggests two routes: a direct route via La Nangdalo (5,350 meters), which is shorter but not ideal for acclimatization, and a longer route via Methok Ting La (5,000 meters), which includes two shorter stages to the base of Mentok Ting La camp. and overnight camping.

  • 11

    Short stage to the base camp of the 5000 meter high pass Mentok Ting La

    Today's stage includes a short acclimatization to the altitude, reaching Mentok Ting La base camp at 4500 meters, overnight in tents and 2-3 hour treks (B, L, D).

  • 12

    Trek to Shey Gompa

    We reach Mentok Ting La at an altitude of almost 5000 meters and continue the Buddhist pilgrimage to circumambulate the Crystal Mountain. Kora (circumcision) is sacred to both Bono followers and Buddhists, accumulating religious merit. The area was once inhabited by evil demons, fought against by the magician Bon Treton Nyima Sengge and the Buddhist master Drubtop Sengge Yeshe. Bono and Buddhist rituals, customs and stories are still alive in Dolp. After a hard day we arrive at Shey Gompa.

  • 13

    Rest day in Shey Gompa

    Today we have free time to explore "Dolce far niente" or the nearby monasteries of Shey Gompa and Tsakang and spend the night in tents at Shey Gompa (4300 meters).

  • 14

    Ups and downs after Taro

    Today's stage includes a walk through a barren mountain landscape with blue sheep and snow leopards. The chance of seeing a leopard is almost zero percent, they prefer high mountain areas up to 6000 meters. Our destination is Taro, the summer pasture for the villagers. Overnight in tents and 6 hours of trekking.

  • 15

    Legends to Bhijer

    The journey from Taro to Bhijer takes about 2 hours and passes through beautiful villages like Tata and Shyamling Gompa. The village is home to 15 families and has a 900-year-old Bon monastery. After reaching Bhijer, we will visit a renowned Tibetan doctor, Amchi station. Bhijer is one of the deepest villages of Dolpo, with the possibility of growing wheat at an altitude of 3850 meters. The origin of the village is a legend about a monk who shot a demon in the shape of a rat with an arrow and an apricot tree grew in the forecourt.

  • 16

    The "last" village

    We will climb the challenging Yambur La mountain range from 1000 to 4800 meters, then descend into the gorge. Thanks to our trust and freedom of the head, it is pleasant. After a strenuous climb, we reach the lonely village of Pho, where we walk through an abandoned, uninhabited area.

  • 17

    Trek to Phung Kharka (4650 m)

    The journey begins in the isolated village of Pho, where we encounter wild mountain scenery. We climb to the 5560 meter high Nyingma Gyanzen La pass, considered one of the best in Nepal. We hang prayer flags at the top just to be sure. After the descent of Swaksa Khola, we reach the Phung Kharka camp, where we sleep twice and enjoy the night sky with thousands of stars.

  • 18

    Cross Yala La (5400 meters) trek to Chyandi Khola (4800 m)

    The program includes a high pass towards Yala La, reaching 5400 meters above the 5000 meter mark. After crossing the pass, we descend to Chyandi Khola, where we can see the glaciers from the 6000 meter high peaks of Tibetan Dolpa. Border crossings into Tibet are now officially prohibited, but locals use them for smuggling routes. Eric Valli's 'Himalaya' gives an insight into the life and culture of the Dolps who cross the border to transport salt caravans from Dolp to Tibet.

  • 19

    Trek to Takla Khola (3800 m)

    The road runs along the Chyandi Khola stream, traversing steep, rocky slopes and streams. The stage takes us below 4000 meters and we enjoy the beauty of the low-lying valleys. We camp at Takla Khola or run higher to shorten the climb to the next pass. Overnight in tents at Takla Khola, 3800 meters.

  • 20

    Over the last high ball to Thajuchaur (4050 m)

    Today we will test our fitness by climbing Chyargo La, reaching Thajuchaur and then trekking for 7-8 hours, overnight in tents at Thajuchaur.

  • 21

    In deeper realms

    Today we reach Shilenchaura, a 2950 meter high destination at the confluence of the Chham Khola and Mugu rivers, where we spend the night in tents.

  • 22

    Resting and reserve day

    Today is a rest day with the opportunity to visit the Mugu Khola Valley, an ancient pilgrimage route to Mount Kailash in Tibet. The Way Mugu and back is an all-day stage, but several cuts can be started at any time and turned back.

  • 23

    Trek to Mangri (1950 m)back to civilization

    The road returns to civilization after a long, lonely journey through Mugu, Nepal's poorest region, where education is low, illiteracy rates high and medical care scarce. Overnight in tents in Mangri.

  • 24

    Small town Gamghadi

    We continue our journey along the Mugu Karnali river and head to Gamghadi, the capital of Mugu district. Although it is not the most beautiful place in Nepal, we enjoy the city life and shopping opportunities.

  • 25

    To the largest lake of Nepal the Rara Lake (2980m)

    Today we will visit Nepal's largest lake, Rara Lake, located at an altitude of almost 3000 meters in the national park. The trek can be done in three days from Gamghadi to Jumla, leaving days for contingencies. Night camp at Rara Lake, 3-4 hours of trekking.

  • 26

    Free day

    Today we have a free day at Rara Lake where we can explore the lake either by walking like Hindu pilgrims or resting in tents.

  • 27

    Ghorosingha (3050 meters)

    Rara National Park, Nepal's smallest, covers an area of ​​over 100 square kilometers and is home to many species of animals, including musk deer, black bears, leopards, wild Thar goats, otters and jackals. The park is also famous for its bird species, especially migratory ones. The journey includes a lake, pine and rhododendron forests and a camp at Ghorosingha.

  • 28

    Sinja (2400 meters)

    Once the royal seat of one of the largest Himalayan kingdoms, Sinja was an important place for the rulers of the Khas kingdom. The ruins of the Kankasundri palace and Hindu temple are a reminder of this ancient kingdom that ruled western Nepal, Tibet and Ladakh until the 14th century.

  • 29

    Villages and pastures to jaljala Khor (3270 meters)

    The road climbs through the valley, passes villages and forests, and before the pass reaches the Alpweide jaljala chaur. Overnight in tents in Jaljala Khor, 6-7 hours of trekking.

  • 30

    Jumla (2540 meters)

    On our last day of trekking, we climb to the 3600 meters jaljala La ball, enjoy the view and then descend to Chere Chaur before reaching Jumla, the end point of our adventure trek. We celebrate success with our team.

  • 31

    Return to Kathmandu

    Despite the fast pace of our journey, we board a small plane to Nepalganje and then a connecting flight to Kathmandu. Despite the long mountain journey, we enjoy the comfort of civilization. Flight from Jumla to Nepalganje is possible only in good weather. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

  • 32

    Free day in Kathmandu

    On a free day in Kathmandu, we can relax, enjoy coffee and explore great restaurants. The final dinner will be in the ancient palace where we will enjoy a traditional Nepalese dance and dal bhat.

  • 33

    Final Departure from Nepal towards your destination

    Finally, our representative will coordinate you towards Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure towards your home.

Services

Equipments

Plan Your Trip