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Trip Overview
The Shey Gompa and Inner Dolpo Trek is a journey that takes adventurers beyond Phoksundo Lake into the ancient realm of the 800-year-old Shey Gompa and the enigmatic Crystal Mountain. The trek is a blend of the verdant southern Dolpa, the turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake, and the arid hills of Upper Dolpo. Shey Gompa trek is not for the faint-hearted, as it is physically demanding, characterized by steep, prolonged ascents and descents, with much of the route above 4000 meters, resulting in freezing nights. However, the breathtaking landscapes, panoramic views from mountain passes, and encounters with a unique, untouched culture make the effort worthwhile. The resilient and seemingly otherworldly villagers encountered in this harsh environment add to the trek's allure, offering a challenge that will excite and prepare you for the journey ahead.
The adventure begins in Jhupal village, accessible via a short flight from Nepalgunj, transporting trekkers back in time by centuries. From Jhupal, the trail follows the Phoksundo River valley, winding through natural forests, grassy fields, and remote villages until reaching Phoksundo Lake. At this point, trekkers enter the Upper Dolpo region, part of a vast national park. A day is spent resting and admiring the crystal-clear blue waters of Phoksundo Lake, which feeds one of Nepal's highest waterfalls. After recharging, trekkers embark on a steep, two-day ascent to the Himalayan Kang-La pass at 5360 meters. The entire trek typically takes around 20 days to complete.
Descending from Kang-La Pass, the trail leads into the Nam Khong Khola river valley, arriving at the spiritual heart of Upper Dolpo, the Shey Gompa Monastery. The Dolpo people traditionally followed Bon Po, a fierce mountain and nature spirit, before adopting Tibetan Buddhism, resulting in a unique blend of both traditions at Shey Gompa.
Shey Gompa is situated at the base of Crystal Mountain, a mystical area that draws pilgrims from all over Dolpo for an annual festival and a mountain circuit. Shey means "crystal," derived from the mountain's rugged cliffs embedded with quartz and marine fossils. As the trek continues deeper into Upper Dolpo, the route follows ancient paths once used by Tibetan salt traders traversing the arid Trans-Himalayan plateau. As the trail progresses eastward into the picturesque Tarap Chu Valley, the terrain becomes increasingly wild, barren, and windswept. Eventually, the trek reaches Dho Tarap at 4040 meters, a uniquely constructed village surrounded by a jagged stone wall. A day is spent exploring and visiting Bon Gompa, a 40-minute walk from the town.
Departing Dho Tarap, the trail is lined with juniper bushes and wild roses, typical of areas near the tree line. Trekkers might spot herds of blue sheep and musk deer. As the descent continues, the valley opens up, revealing lush vegetation alongside the river. Camp is set on the verdant meadow of Kamakharka at 3800 meters, where the Tarap Chu and Lang Khola rivers converge. The trek through the Tarap River gorge is particularly memorable, with sections so narrow that it is possible to jump from one side to the other. Crossing the torrent on foot may be necessary in the event of damaged or washed-away bridges. After navigating an impressive forest, the trail descends into another gorge, following the river downstream to Tarakot at 2537 meters, an old fortress town surrounded by fertile terraced fields.
The Shey Gompa and Inner Dolpo Trek remains one of the Himalayas of Nepal's least-visited and most pristine destinations, offering a unique and exclusive experience to those who dare to embark on this adventure.
Highlights of the Shey Gompa and Inner Dolpo Trek
- Ancient Monastery: Visit the 800-year-old Shey Gompa, one of Nepal's most revered Buddhist monasteries.
- Spiritual Experience: Engage with the region's rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
- Pristine Beauty: Witness the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal's most beautiful lakes.
- Scenic Surroundings: Enjoy the stunning backdrop of snow-capped peaks and lush forests surrounding the lake.
- Kang La Pass (5,360 meters): Cross the challenging Kang La Pass, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Saldang La Pass (5,200 meters): Traverse the Saldang La Pass, another high-altitude highlight with breathtaking vistas.
- Untouched Nature: Experience the raw, pristine beauty of the Dolpo region, far from the crowded trekking routes.
- Diverse Landscapes: Trek through diverse landscapes, including alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and deep valleys.
- Ethnic Diversity: Interact with the local Dolpo-pa people, who have preserved their unique Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions.
- Traditional Villages: Explore remote villages where ancient customs and ways of life continue to thrive.
- Rare Animals: Spot rare wildlife in their natural habitat, such as the elusive snow leopard, blue sheep, and Himalayan marmots.
- Bird Watching: Observe various bird species, including Himalayan griffons and golden eagles.
- Religious Sites: Along the trekking route, you can visit numerous chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags, reflecting the strong Buddhist and Bon Po influences.
- Cultural Festivals: If timing permits, participate in local festivals and ceremonies that offer a glimpse into the spiritual life of the Dolpo people.
- Himalayan Panorama: Enjoy uninterrupted views of towering peaks, including Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters) and the Kanjiroba range.
- Stunning Sunrises and Sunsets: Witness awe-inspiring sunrises and sunsets over the majestic Dolpo landscapes.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Experience the thrill of trekking in one of Nepal's most remote and least explored regions.
- Sense of Accomplishment: Upon completing this challenging and rewarding trek, feel a profound sense of achievement.
- Wilderness Camping: Spend nights camping under the stars in some of the most remote and beautiful locations in Nepal.
- Teahouse Stays: Enjoy the hospitality of local teahouses in the more accessible parts of the trek.
Itinerary
Cost Include
- Trekking permit fee of Lower Dolpa region
- Special Permit fee upper Dolpa
- National Park fee Dolpo area and TIMS Permits
- Equipment: Trekking tents, Dining tent, Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, Table and chairs, Mattresses during the trekking.
- Food for trekking (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Mountain Guide, Cook, Kitchen & necessary porters
- Local transportation Airport – Hotel – Airport
- Accommodation in Kathmandu & Nepalgunj on Bed & Breakfast basis
- Heli landing permit for upper Dolpa
- Extra shuttle( both way)
- All flight arrangement as per program
- Trekking insurance with Medical insurance for trekking staffs
- Trekking allowance, food allowance for trekking crews
- flight ticket and land transportation for Trekking staffs
- Service charge to company
Cost Exclude
- Personal equipment for Trekking
- Personal Insurance for travel to Nepal
- Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu & Nepalgunj
- Emergency Rescue evacuation if needed
- Trekking Sleeping bag
- Personal expenses
- Tipping (Tips) for staff
- Filmy permit for National park( Only for shooting camera)
- Bar bills & Beverages
Equipment list for Shey Gompa and Inner Dolpo Trek
This checklist is designed to help you prepare for a trekking holiday in Nepal, with additional notes for those attempting to summit a trekking peak. It's reassuring to know that high-quality gear, including outdoor clothing and sleeping bags, can be conveniently rented in Kathmandu.
Most treks will be in lodges or teahouses, which offer basic rooms with two single beds and mattresses. These lodges, with their cozy rooms and provided blankets, ensure a comfortable stay, making your trek a more enjoyable experience. A good-quality three-season sleeping bag should suffice. However, for trekking peaks, you'll generally set up base camp with tents, necessitating a warmer sleeping bag, a liner to enhance its warmth, and a sleeping mattress.
| TRAVEL DOCUMENTS | HEAD |
| Debit/Credit Cards | Sun Cap |
| PP Size Photo (2 Pieces) | Fleece Hat/ Warm Hat (1-2 Pcs) |
| Insurance Paper And Contact Address. | Neck Gaiter (2 Pcs) |
| Family Members / Company’s Contact | Head Lamp with extra batteries |
| Address | Sun Glasses (UV Protection) |
| Travel Insurance | Balaclava |
| HANDS AND FEET | UPPER BODY |
| Light Liner & Down Gloves | Thermal Top Base Layer (2 Pcs) |
| Normal Socks (5-6 Pairs) | Fleece Jacket (1 Pcs) |
| Trekking Shoes | Gore Tex Jacket (1 Pcs) |
| Slipper (1 Pair) | Down Jacket (1 Pcs) |
| Camp Shoes | Quick Dry T-Shirt (2 Pcs) |
| Hiking Boot with ankle support | Wind breaker/Windproof Jacket |
| LOWER BODY | PERSONAL EQUIPMENT |
| Thermal Bottom Base Layer (2 Pcs) | Down Sleeping Bag -10°C to -20°C |
| Fleece Trouser (1pcs) | Headlamp (Rechargeable Batteries) |
| Gore Tex Pant (1 pcs) | Trekking Pole |
| Light Weight Quick Dry Trekking Pants(2-3 Pairs) | Rucksacks 35L - 45L/Day Bag |
| Gaiters for trekking boots | Rain Pancho & Umbrella |
| Under Wear (4 pcs) | Powerbank |
| EATING & DRINKING | TOILETRIES |
| Energy Bar | Hand Disinfectant |
| Snacks | Wet Tissue |
| Water Bottle | Tooth Paste & Tooth Brush |
| Thermos | Soap & Shampoo |
| MEDICAL/FIRST AID | MISCELLANEOUS |
| Severe Pain Killer (Flexon) | Lip Balm |
| Mild Pain Killer (Paracetamol) | Sunscreen |
| Throat Lozengen (Strepsils) | Moisturizer |
| Lubricating Eye Drop (Artificial Tear) | Quick Dry Towel |
| Antacid Tab | Trails Maps |
| Electrolyte Tab | Trekking Poles |
| Handy Plast | Sun Cream (30-50 Spf) |
| Blister Blast | Lip Guard (30-50 Spf) |
| Crep Bandage (Elastic Bandage) | Sun Glasses (UV Protection) |
FAQ
The best time for trekking in the Shey Gompa and Inner Dolpo region is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) seasons. During these periods, the weather is generally stable, and the clear skies offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes.
The Shey Gompa and Inner Dolpo trek is considered to be a challenging trek. It involves long days of walking, steep ascents and descents, and crossing high passes above 5,000 meters. Trekkers should be physically fit and have some prior trekking experience.
Yes, trekking in Inner Dolpo requires special permits. Trekkers must obtain the Shey Phoksundo National Park entry permit and a restricted area permit for Inner Dolpo. These permits can be arranged through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. The agency will assist you in the application process and ensure you have the necessary permits before starting the trek.
Accommodation in the Inner Dolpo region is primarily in basic teahouses or campsites. The teahouses offer simple, rustic lodging with limited facilities. In more remote areas, camping may be necessary, and trekkers must carry their own tents and camping equipment.
Essential items to pack include: Sturdy trekking boots. A good quality sleeping bag. Warm clothing (including a down jacket). Rain gear. A first aid kit. Water purification tablets. Sufficient snacks. Carrying a reliable map or GPS device and personal identification documents is also essential. These tools can help you navigate the challenging terrain and ensure your safety during the trek.
While it is possible to trek independently, the terrain is remote and challenging. For your safety and to enhance your experience, hiring a guide or joining an organized trekking group is highly recommended. A guide can provide valuable assistance with navigation, permits, and local knowledge, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trek.
The trek usually starts from Juphal, accessible by a flight from Nepalgunj. Nepalgunj is a city in the southwestern part of Nepal, and a domestic flight from Kathmandu can reach it.
Some highlights of the trek include visiting the ancient Shey Gompa monastery, exploring the pristine Phoksundo Lake, crossing high passes such as Kang La and Saldang La, and experiencing the unique culture and lifestyle of the Dolpo region. The breathtaking scenery and remote wilderness add to the allure of the trek. Still, the rich culture and unique lifestyle of the Dolpo region make this trek a memorable experience.
The duration of the trek can vary, but it typically takes around 20 to 25 days to complete. This includes time for acclimatization and exploring critical sites along the route.
Regular cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and hiking with a loaded backpack are crucial for preparing for the trek's physical demands. Practice walking on uneven terrain and at high altitudes to ensure you're in the best shape for this challenging adventure.
