• Modified on Jun 6, 2024

Trekking in Nepal during the autumn season, which runs from September to November, is considered the best season for trekking in Nepal. It is a wonderful time to explore the Himalayan mountains. The weather during this period is generally very favorable for trekking, making it a great choice for both experienced and beginner trekkers.

One of the biggest advantages of trekking in autumn is the clear, stable weather conditions. The skies are usually bright and cloudless, providing excellent visibility of the stunning mountain ranges. The temperatures are also quite pleasant, with daytime highs ranging from around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), which is comfortable for hiking. At night, it can get cooler, dropping to around 5°C (41°F), so it's important to pack warm clothing and a good sleeping bag.

Compared to the spring season, which is considered the peak trekking period in Nepal, the autumn season sees fewer crowds on the trekking trails. When there are fewer trekkers on the trails during autumn, it becomes easier for trekkers to secure permits and find accommodation along their routes. This reduced crowd can lead to a more peaceful and enjoyable trekking experience overall.

The autumn season also brings a burst of vibrant colors to the lower elevations of the trekking routes. The forests and meadows are covered with shades of red, orange, and golden hues, creating a stunning contrast against the rugged mountain landscapes. This natural beauty adds an extra layer of enchantment to the already breathtaking scenery.

Some of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal during the autumn season include the Everest Base Camp Trek,Annapurna Circuit Trek,Langtang Valley Trek, and the Manaslu Circuit Trek. These treks offer unforgettable experiences, taking you through remote villages, lush forests, and up close to the towering Himalayan peaks.

While the autumn season offers ideal trekking conditions, it's important to be prepared for the unpredictable mountain weather. Sudden changes in temperature, occasional snowfall, and strong winds can occur, so it's essential to have proper gear and clothing. Additionally, hiring experienced guides and porters is highly recommended, as they have invaluable knowledge of the terrain and can ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience

Table of Content

Popular Trekking Routes in Nepal during the Autumn Season

Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp Trek is a renowned hiking trail in Nepal, that leads adventurers to the base camps of Mount Everest, the highest mountain globally, offering a challenging yet gratifying journey spanning approximately 12-14 days. Beginning in the town of Lukla, the trail begins through stunning mountain landscapes, encompassing picturesque valleys, ancient monasteries, and traditional Sherpa villages, where trekkers can immerse themselves in the unique culture and hospitality of the Sherpa people residing in the Everest region.

As altitude increases, the terrain becomes increasingly rugged and dramatic, offering spectacular views of towering snow-capped peaks. The highlight of the trek is reaching Everest Base Camp, situated at an altitude of around 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), allowing trekkers to admire the awe-inspiring sight of Everest's massive peak up close. Although physically demanding due to high altitudes, the trek promises an unforgettable adventure for those craving an authentic mountain experience in the Himalayas.

Major Highlights and Attraction of Everest Base Camp Trek

  • Breathtaking mountain views of the world's highest peaks, including Mount Everest (8,849 m/29,032 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m/27,940 ft), Nuptse (7,861 m/25,791 ft), and Ama Dablam (6,812 m/22,349 ft).
  • Reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and witnessing the base camp used by Everest climbers.
  • Immersion in the Sherpa culture and experiencing their warm hospitality and rich traditions.
  •  Exploring Namche Bazaar, the vibrant "Gateway to Everest," with a blend of Tibetan and Nepalese cultures.
  • Trekking to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for stunning up-close views of Everest and surrounding peaks.
  • Visiting ancient monasteries like Tengboche and witnessing Buddhist rituals and practices.
  • Challenging terrain with suspension bridges, rocky paths, and glacial moraines.
  • Gradual acclimatization and trekking through high altitudes.

Everest Base Camp Trek in Autumn

Brief Itinerary of Everest Base Camp Trek 

Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel

Day 2:UNESCO World Heritage Site Excursion

Day 3:Fly to Lukla & Trek to Phakding

Day 4:Trek to Namche Bazaar

Day 5:Acclimatization in Namche Bazar

Day 6:Trek to Debuche Village

Day 7:Trek to Dingboche Village

Day 8:Acclimatization in Dingboche

Day 9:Trek to Lobuche

Day 10:Trek to Everest Base Camp & Stay at Gorakshep

Day 11:Hike to Kalapatthar & Trek to Pheriche

Day 12:Trek to Namche Bazaar

Day 13:Trek to Lukla Village

Day 14:Fly back to Kathmandu

Day 15:Departure Day

Trekking permits required for Everest Base Camp Trek:
Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit
  •  Foreign nationals (including SAARC citizens): NPR 2,000 per person for the first 4 weeks
  •  After 4 weeks: NPR 2,500 per person
Sagarmatha National Park Entry permit 
  •  Foreign nationals: NPR. 3,000 per person
  •  SAARC nationals: NPR. 1,500 per person
  • Nepali citizens: NPR. 100 per person

Everest Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake

The Annapurna Circuit Trek, a renowned hiking trail in Nepal’s Annapurna region, encircles the majestic Annapurna mountain range. A highlight of this trek is the side trip to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world at an elevation of 4,919 meters (16,138 feet). Reaching Tilicho Lake involves trekking through breathtaking high-altitude landscapes with awe-inspiring views of the Annapurna peaks. This brilliant turquoise lake holds religious significance for Hindus and Buddhists, who undertake pilgrimages here. Combining the incredible scenery of Tilicho Lake with the already amazing Annapurna Circuit Trek offers an unparalleled adventure for nature enthusiasts. The journey also takes trekkers over Thorangla Pass, one of the world's highest passes at 5,416 meters, providing thrilling experiences and spectacular mountain vistas. Here, is a complete guidebook for Tilicho Lake for you.

Tilicho Lake

Major Highlights and Attractions of Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Crossing Thorong La Pass, the highest pass in the world at an elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet), offers an exhilarating challenge.
  • Visiting Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world at an elevation of 4,919 meters (16,138 feet), known for its brilliant turquoise color and stunning mountain surroundings.
  • Exploring the historic sacred Muktinath Temple, equally important for Hindu and Buddhist religions, immersing in the region's spiritual significance.
  •  Witnessing the awe-inspiring Gangapurna Lake at an elevation of 3,540 meters.
  • Trekking through yak pastures, grazing lands, and farmlands, experiencing the traditional way of life in the region.
  • Enjoying stunning views of beautiful snow-capped mountains, including the Annapurna range, Thorong Peak, Manaslu, Gorkha Himal, Lamjung Himal, Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, and Machapuchhre, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
  • Experiencing the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture prevalent in the region, including visits to ancient monasteries and interactions with local communities, immersing in the rich cultural heritage.

Tilicho Lake Trek during Autumn

Brief Itinerary of Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho Lake 

Day1:Arrival in Kathmandu City and Transfer to Hotel

Day 2:Kathmandu City Tour, Pre-Trek Briefing, and Welcome Dinner

Day 3:Drive to Chame via Besisahar in Private Scorpio

Day 4:Trek to Upper Pisang

Day 5:Trek to Manang Village

Day 6:Acclimatization Day at Manang

Day 7:Trek to Shreekharka

Day 8:Trek to Tilicho Base Camp

Day 9:Trek to Tilicho Lake and return to Shreekharka

Day 10:Trek to Yak Kharka

Day 11:Trek to Thorong Phedi

Day 12:Trek to Muktinath Village via Thorong La Pass

Day 13:Trek to Jomsom Village

Day 14:Drive back to Pokhara in Private Scorpio

Day 15:Fly back to Kathmandu

Day 16:Departure Day

Trekking permits required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek:
TIMS Card
  • SAARC Countries: NPR 1000
  • Other Countries: NPR 2000
ACAP
  • SAARC Countries: NPR 1000
  • Other countries: NPR 3000

Nar-Phu Valley Trek

The Nar Phu Valley Trek captivates adventurers with its relatively unexplored terrain in the remote Annapurna region of western Nepal. This unique trek takes explorers through stunning landscapes, from lush rhododendron forests and terraced fields to high-altitude deserts and rugged mountains, while providing an authentic glimpse into the traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture of the Narphu and Lhomi people. Trekkers will cross several high passes, including the Kang La Pass making it a moderate to challenging journey that demands good physical fitness and acclimatization. As a restricted area, a special permit and a licensed guide are required to preserve the region's unique culture and environment. The Nar Phu Valley Trek offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse in the rich cultural heritage of this remote Himalayan region while challenging amidst breathtaking mountain landscapes.

Major Highlights and Attractions of Narphu Valley Trek

  • The Nar Phu Valley remained restricted to outsiders until 2002, making it one of the least explored areas in Nepal and offering a true off-the-beaten-path experience.
  • The trek involves undertaking high-altitude trekking, crossing several high mountain passes, including the Kang La Pass (5,322m/17,460ft), and providing a challenging experience. 
  • Ancient monasteries and chortens (Buddhist stupas) can be explored, such as the Luri Gompa and Nar Monastery, where one can witness the unique architecture and religious significance of the region.
  • The trek takes one through picturesque stone-walled villages, such as Nar and Phu, offering a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Himalayas. 

Narphu Valley Trek in Autumn

Brief Itinerary of Nar Phu Valley Trek 

Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 2:Kathmandu City Tour & Pre-trek Preparation

Day 3:Drive to Besisahar Lamjung

Day 4:Drive to Dharapani/Koto

Day 5:Trek to Meta

Day 6:Trek to Phu Gaun

Day 7:Acclimatization Day

Day 8:Trek to Nar Phedi

Day 9:Trek to Nar Gaun

Day 10:Trek to Ngawal Valley via Kangla Pass

Day 11:Trek to Manang Village

Day 12:Drive back to Besisahar

Day 13:Drive back to Kathmandu

Day 14:Final Departure

Trekking Permits required for Nar Phu Valley Trek:
Special Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
  • December to August: USD 75 per person for the first 7 days, and USD 15 additional charge per person per day after the 7th day.
  • September to November: USD 100 per person for the first 7 days, and USD 15 additional charge per person per day after the 7th day.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit
  • USD 30 per person for a single entry, valid for an unlimited number of days.
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Permit (required if extending the trek to the Annapurna Circuit)
  • USD 20 per person 
Narphu Valley Trek

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

One of the well-liked and best treks in Nepal is the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek. It takes trekkers through charming villages, and lush rhododendron forests, and offers stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range. The highlight of the trek is Poon Hill, a famous viewpoint at an altitude of 3,210 meters. From Poon Hill, one can witness breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas, including the massive peaks of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. The trek starts from Nayapul or Birethanti and follows a well-marked trail through villages like Ghorepani and Ghandruk, where trekkers can experience the rich culture and hospitality of the Gurung people. The trail passes through forests of rhododendrons, which bloom with vibrant colors in spring. With a maximum altitude of around 3,210 meters, the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is suitable for those with a moderate level of fitness. The trek offers basic teahouse accommodation and delicious Nepali cuisine along the way, making it a comfortable yet adventurous experience.

Major Highlights and Attractions  

  • Panoramic views of the Annapurna range, including Annapurna I (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and more.
  • The famous Poon Hill (3,210m) offers breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas.
  • The trek passes through lush rhododendron forests, which bloom in spring with vibrant red and pink flowers.
  • Gurung villages: Experience the rich culture and hospitality of the Gurung people in traditional villages like Ghorepani and Ghandruk.

Brief Itinerary of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

 Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 2:Full Day Kathmandu City Excursion

Day 3:Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara City

Day 4:Drive to Nayapul and trek to Tikhedhunga

Day 5:Trek Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani

Day 6:Hike Ghorepani to Poonhill(3,210m) and trek to Tadapani

Day 7:Trek Tadapani to Ghandruk

Day 8:Trek to Nayapul & Drive to Pokhara

Day 9:Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Day 10:Final Departure

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek in Autumn

Trekking Permits required for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek:
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit
  • For foreigners: NRs. 3,000 per person per entry 

Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card

  • For Foreign Individual Trekkers: NRs. 2,000 per person
  • For Foreign Group Trekkers: NRs. 1,000 per person

Langtang Valley Trek

The Langtang Valley Trek is famous in Nepal's Langtang National Park, around 60 km north of Kathmandu. It combines cultural discovery with stunning natural scenery. The trek starts in the small town of Syabru Besi, reached by a scenic drive from Kathmandu. From there, the trail climbs through beautiful forests of rhododendrons, oak, and pine trees to reach the high villages of the Tamang people. Along the way, you'll see amazing views of Langtang Lirung (7,246m) and other majestic peaks.

One highlight is Kyanjin Gompa, a peaceful monastery at 3,870m with panoramic mountain and glacier views - a great spot to rest and explore. The trek also offers chances to see wildlife like the rare red panda, Himalayan tahr, and many bird species. The pristine Langtang River runs alongside the trail for much of the way, adding to the natural beauty. This is considered a moderate to challenging 7-10 day trek, suitable for fairly fit people. The combination of cultures, scenery, and wildlife makes it a classic Himalayan adventure.  

Langtang Valley Trek in Autumn

Major Highlights and Attractions of Langtang Valley Trek

  • Explore the traditional Tibetan-style village of Langtang, with its stone houses, monasteries, and rich cultural heritage.
  • Visit the ancient Kyanjin Gompa, a Buddhist monastery located at an altitude of 3,870 meters, surrounded by towering peaks.
  • Enjoy the spectacular views of the Langtang Lirung (7,246m), Ganchhenpo (6,388m), Naya Kanga (5,846m), and other peaks in the Langtang range.
  • Witness the impressive Langtang Glacier and the turquoise glacial lakes, such as Dudhkoshi and Gosainkunda.
  • Trek through lush rhododendron forests, bursting into vibrant colors during spring.
  • Visit traditional cheese factories in villages like Kyanjin Gompa and learn about the local cheese-making process.
  • Experience the unique culture and hospitality of the Tamang and Tibetan Buddhist communities living in the region.

Brief itinerary of Langtang Valley Trek

Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu City

Day 2:UNESCO World Heritage Site Excursion in Kathmandu

Day 3:Drive to Syabrubesi, Rasuwa

Day 4:Trek to Lama Hotel

Day 5:Trek to Langtang Village

Day 6:Trek to Kyanjin Gompa

Day 7:Hike to Tserko Ri and back to Kyanjin Gompa

Day 8:Trek back to Lama Hotel

Day 9:Trek back to Syabrubesi, Rasuwa

Day 10:Drive back to Kathmandu

Day 11:Departure Day

Trekking Permit Required for Langtang Valley Trek:
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card
  • For Nepali:100 NPR. (about USD 1).
  •  For SAARC nationals: 1,500 NPR. (about USD 15).
  • For other Foreign nationals: 3,000 NPR (roughly USD 30).

Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively new and off-the-beaten path in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This moderate trek takes you through traditional Gurung villages, and dense rhododendron forests, and offers stunning views of the iconic Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal peaks.

The Trek begins near Phedi village in the Annapurna Conservation Area. As you ascend through the lush forests, you'll catch glimpses of the towering Mardi Himal (5,587m) and other massive peaks.  The trail leads you to low-altitude temporary settlements used by local Gurung people for grazing livestock during the summer months.

The highlight of the trek is reaching the high camp at an elevation of around 4,500m, which offers a breathtaking up-close view of the Mardi Himal massif and the surrounding glaciers. The trek's highest point is at an altitude of around 4,800m, providing a truly mesmerizing panorama of the Annapurna range. With its moderate difficulty level, the Mardi Himal Trek is a great alternative for those seeking a quieter and less crowded experience compared to the popular Annapurna Base Camp Trek.  

Mardi Himal Trek in Autumn

Major highlights and attractions of Mardi Himal Trek

  • Breathtaking mountain views, including Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli peaks
  • High-altitude viewpoints at Mardi Himal Base Camp and High Camp for panoramic peak views
  • Trekking through lush rhododendron forests in spring
  • Diverse landscapes from green valleys to waterfalls and rugged terrain
  • Cultural immersion in traditional Gurung and Magar villages
  • Moderate to strenuous difficulty level, suitable for fit trekkers
  • Fewer crowds compared to popular Annapurna treks, offering a peaceful experience 

Brief itinerary of Mardi Himal Trek

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu City

Day 2: UNESCO World Heritage Site Excursion

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Day 4: Drive from Pokhara to Phedi / Kande and trek to Pothana Village

Day 5: Trek to Forest Camp

Day 6: Trek to Low Camp

Day 7: Trek to Mardi High Camp

Day 8: Hike to Mardi Viewpoint and Mardi Base Camp

Day 9: Trek to Siding Village and Drive to Pokhara

Day 10: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu

Day 11: Departure Day

Trekking permits required for Mardi Himal Trek:
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card
  • For foreign nationals - NPR 2000
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Entry Permit
  • During the high season (March to May and October to November)- NPR 3,000 per person
  • During the low season (June to September and December to February)- NPR 2,000  

Everest Three-Pass Trek

The Everest Three Passes Trek is an incredibly scenic and challenging trek in the Everest region of Nepal. It is considered one of the most beautiful and strenuous treks in the Himalayan region. This trek takes trekkers over three high passes - Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m) - offering breathtaking views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and other towering peaks.

The journey begins with a flight to Lukla and follows the classic Everest Base Camp route until Dingboche. From there, trekkers ascend the Renjo La pass, crossing into the remote Gokyo Valley, where they get to witness the stunning Gokyo lakes and the massive Ngozumpa Glacier.

After crossing the Cho La and Kongma La passes, trekkers descend to the Khumbu Valley, where they get to visit the iconic Everest Base Camp and the historic Khumbu Glacier. The trek offers an opportunity to experience the unique Sherpa culture and explore the rugged and untouched landscapes of the Himalayan region.

With its high altitude, challenging terrain, and remote locations, the Everest Three Passes Trek is suitable for experienced trekkers with excellent physical fitness. It is a true adventure that rewards trekkers with some of the most magnificent mountain vistas in the world.

Renjo La Pass in Autumn

Major Highlights and Attractions of Everest Three Pass Trek

  • Crossing three high passes: Renjo La (5,360m/17,585ft), Cho La (5,420m/17,782ft), and Kongma La (5,535m/18,159ft)
  • Stunning views of Mt. Everest (8,848m/29,029ft), Lhotse (8,516m/27,940ft), Nuptse (7,861m/25,791ft), and other Himalayan giants
  • Exploring the Sherpa culture and visiting monasteries like Tengboche and Pangboche
  • Trekking through the Khumbu Glacier and Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,598ft)
  • Experiencing the vibrant Sherpa towns of Namche Bazaar and Khumjung
  • Trekking through the remote and scenic Gokyo Valley and its turquoise lakes

Brief Itinerary of  Everest Three Passes Trek

Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu & Transfer to Hotel

Day 2:Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing

Day 3:Fly to Lukla & Trek to Phakding

Day 4:Trek to Namche Bazaar

Day 5:Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar

Day 6:Trek to Thame Village

Day 7:Trek to Lungden Village

Day 8:Trek to Gokyo Village via Renjola Pass

Day 9:Hike to Gokyo Ri and back to Gokyo Village

Day 10:Trek to Thangnak Village

Day 11:Trek to Dzongla via Chola Pass

Day 12:Trek to Lobuche Village

Day 13:Trek to Everest Base Camp via Gorakshep

Day 14:Hike to Kalapatthar & Trek back to Lobuche

Day 15:Trek to Chukung Ri via Kongmala pass

Day 16:Trek to Pangboche Village

Day 17:Trek to Namche Bazaar

Day 18:Trek to Lukla

Day 19:Fly back to Kathmandu

Day 20:Leisure Day & Farewell Day

Day 21:Departure Day

Trekking permits required for  Everest Three Passes Trek:

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

  • USD 30 per person.

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit

  •  USD 20 per person.

Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging yet rewarding trek that takes you around the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), in the Gorkha region of Nepal. This off-the-beaten-path trek offers a unique experience of traversing through remote villages, crossing high mountain passes, and witnessing the natural wonder of the Himalayan mountains. Which voice is this in active or passive

The trek begins in the historic town of Gorkha and follows the Budhi Gandaki River Valley, passing through traditional Nubri and Tsum villages, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life. As you ascend, you'll be treated to stunning views of Mt. Manaslu, Himchuli, and other snow-capped peaks.

One of the highlights of the trek is crossing the challenging Larkya La pass (5,160m), which offers a breathtaking panorama of the Manaslu range and the surrounding glaciers. Descending from the pass, you'll enter the Marsyangdi Valley and traverse through the lush Annapurna Circuit region, passing

Recognized as one of Nepal's most challenging treks due to its remote location, high altitudes, and rugged terrain, the Manaslu Circuit Trek rewards adventurers with an unparalleled wilderness experience, cultural richness, and stunning mountain vistas, making the effort truly worthwhile.

Larke la Pass in Autumn

Major Highlights and Attractions of Manaslu Circuit Trek

  • Trekking around the massive Manaslu (8,163m/26,781ft), the eighth-highest mountain in the world.
  • Crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,160m/16,928ft
  • Exploring the ancient salt trade route between Nepal and Tibet
  • Experiencing the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture of the Nubri Valley
  • Visiting the remote and isolated villages of Samagaun and Samdo
  • Trekking through the lush Budhi Gandaki River Valley
  • Enjoying the dramatic landscapes of glaciers, high passes, and rugged mountains.
  • Observing diverse flora and fauna, including the legendary yaks and blue sheep

Brief Itinerary of Manaslu Circuit Trek 

Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 2:UNESCO World Heritage Site Excursion

Day 3:Drive to Soti Khola

Day 4:Trek to Machha Khola

Day 5:Trek to Jagat

Day 6:Trek to Deng

Day 7:Trek to Namrung Village

Day 8:Trek to Shyala Gaun

Day 9:Trek to Sama Gaun

Day 10:Acclimatization Day

Day 11:Trek to Samdo

Day 12:Trek to Dharmasala

Day 13:Trek to Bimthang via Larkey Pass

Day 14:Trek to Dharapani

Day 15:Drive to Besi Sahar

Day 16:Drive back to Kathmandu

Day 17:Departure Day

Trekking permits required for Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit

  • For Autumn (Sep-Nov): $100 for the first 7 days, $15 for each additional day
  • For other seasons (Dec-Aug): $75 for the first 7 days, $10 for each additional day

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

  • Cost for SAARC nationals: NPR 1000 per person
  • Cost for other nationals: NPR 3000 per person

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

  • Cost for SAARC nationals: NPR 1000 per person
  • Cost for other nationals: NPR 3000 per person
Additionally, if you plan to extend the trek to Tsum Valley, you need to obtain a separate Tsum Valley Permit for $35 per person for one week.

Upper Dolpo Trek

The Upper Dolpo Trek is challenging but very rewarding in a remote part of northwestern Nepal. This isolated area is surrounded by high mountains and has a dry, desert-like landscape similar to Tibet.

Dolpo is one of the most unspoiled and culturally rich regions in Nepal because it was cut off from the outside world for a long time. The local people, called the Dolpo-pa, are descendants of Tibetans and have maintained their unique Buddhist traditions and way of life for centuries.

The trek takes you through desolate valleys, over high mountain passes up to 5,300 meters, and into ancient villages where traditional Tibetan culture still thrives today. Trekkers are treated to incredible views of massive snow-capped peaks, crossed by yak caravans on ancient salt trading routes from Tibet.

Only a limited number of trekking permits are given out each year, so Upper Dolpo remains an off-the-beaten-path destination. The trek involves crossing several very high mountain passes over 5,000m, so trekkers need to be properly acclimatized. But the rewards include amazing Himalayan scenery and an authentic experience in one of the last places where ancient Buddhist culture still exists.

Major Highlights and Attractions of Upper Dolpo Trek

  • Visiting a very remote region of Nepal, close to the Tibetan border.
  • Experiencing the unique culture and way of life of the Dolpo-pa people, who follow Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
  • Exploring ancient villages and monasteries with traditional Tibetan architecture.
  • Trekking through dramatic, desert-like landscapes with high cliffs, deep valleys, and canyons.
  • Crossing several very high mountain passes, over 5,000 meters high, with incredible mountain views.
  • Hiking along the beautiful turquoise Shey Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal's highest lakes.
  • Following the old salt trading routes that connected Nepal and Tibet.
  • Experiencing the warm hospitality of the local Dolpo-pa people in their remote villages.
  • Possibility of seeing rare Himalayan wildlife like blue sheep and musk deer.

Phoksundo Lake in Autumn

Brief Itinerary of  Upper Dolpo Trek 

Day 1:Kathmandu arrival and hotel transfer

Day 2: Kathmandu city tour and trek briefing 

Day 3: Flight to Nepalgunj 

Day 4:Arrival at Juphal and trek to Dunai 

Day 5: Dunai to Laina Odar 

Day 6: Journey continues to Nawarpani

Day 7: Nawarpani to Langa Camp 

Day 8:Trek to Dho Tarap

Day 9: Rest day at Dho Trap

Day 10:Dho Tarap to Chhoila Khola Camp

Day 11:Chhoila Bhanjyang (Pass) to Sulung Khola Camp

Day 12: Sulung Khola Camp to Tinjegaon 

Day 13:Tingegaon to Shimengaon

Day 14:Shimengaon to Nisalgaon

Day 15:Rest day at Nisalgaon 

Day 16:Nisalgaon to Saldang

Day 17:Saldang to Namgung 

Day 18:Namgung to Sheygaon via Sela Pass

Day 19:Rest day at Sheygaon 

Day 20:Sheygaon to Phoksundo River Camp

Day 21: River Camp I to River Camp II 

Day 22:River Camp II to Ringmo Village 

Day 23: Rest day at Ringmo Village 

Day 24:Ringmo to Chhepka

Day 25:Chhepka to Juphal 

Day 26: Flight back to Nepalgunj

Trekking permits required for  Upper Dolpo Trek 

Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Entry Permit

  • Cost: USD 500 per person for the first 10 days
  •  Additional cost: USD 50 per person per day for additional days beyond 10 days

Two Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Entry Permits

  • Cost: USD 40 (USD 20 per permit)
  •  One permit is required to enter Lower Dolpo before going to Upper Dolpo

 Another permit is required to re-enter Lower Dolpo after completing the Upper Dolpo trek

Shey-Phoksundo National Park Permit

  •  Cost: USD 30 per person (no time limit)

Conclusion 

Trekking in Nepal during the autumn season from September to November is considered the best time due to favorable weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful fall colors. Many popular trekking routes are available like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Ghorepani Poon Hill, Langtang Valley, and others. Each trek offers unique highlights such as crossing high mountain passes, exploring villages and monasteries, seeing stunning mountain views, and experiencing local cultures. However, proper preparation is needed including obtaining required trekking permits, hiring guides, having the right gear, and being physically fit for the high altitudes. While trekking can be challenging, it allows you to experience the incredible natural beauty and cultural richness of the Himalayan mountains in Nepal. 

Ayushma Bhandari

Ayushma Bhandari

Ayushma Bhandari