Dolpo Jomsom Circuit Trek
The great Buddhist saint Guru Rimpoche, who disseminated Tibetan Buddhism throughout the Himalayas, is said to have discovered this undiscovered area over 1700 years ago, according to legend. Tibetan nomads known as Drokpas have occupied this territory, also known as "beyul" or shelter, for over a thousand years. Due to its distant position, it has remained secluded, and trekking and tourism have only been permitted there since 1989. Dolpo, one of the world's highest inhabited regions, is also a bastion of the pre-Buddhist Bon Po faith. It is a hilly region characterized by fortified settlements, dzongs, and numerous high passes.
On our way to Phoksundo Lake and the legendary Shey Gompa, we pass through numerous historic monasteries, highland towns, and breathtaking natural landscapes. We tour fascinating settlements and alpine meadows in Upper Dolpo, which has preserved Bhoriya culture. In Mustang, we also get to witness Thakkali culture.
The most intriguing aspect of this tour is that we are able to observe the cultural differences that existed across different locations centuries ago. Dolpo, the high highland settlement, is inhabited by nomads who settled in the region eons ago. Similarly, the Lopas, or inhabitants of Mustang, moved from Tibet at the same time. Still, the disparity in terms of civilization between the people of these two locations in the past and the present is enormous; this is an intriguing discovery.
Dolpo Jomsom Circuit Trek Highlights
The Dolpo Jomsom Trek is a unique and off-the-beaten-path trek that takes you through the remote and culturally rich Dolpo region to the popular town of Jomsom in the Mustang region of Nepal. This trek combines the rugged beauty of Dolpo with the stunning landscapes of the Mustang region. Here are some highlights of the Dolpo Jomsom Trek.
Remote and Authentic Experience: The trek starts in the remote Dolpo region, providing a chance to experience the untouched and traditional way of life of the Dolpo people. You'll interact with locals and learn about their culture and customs.
Upper Dolpo Landscape: The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, including dense forests, alpine meadows, barren highlands, and picturesque valleys. The scenery changes dramatically as you traverse different altitudes.
Shey Phoksundo Lake: The trek includes a visit to the breathtaking Shey Phoksundo Lake, a turquoise-colored gem surrounded by rugged mountains. This sacred lake is the deepest in Nepal and offers stunning photo opportunities.
Shey Gompa: An ancient and spiritually significant monastery, Shey Gompa is known for its unique architecture and intricate murals. It's a spiritual center for locals and a great place to learn about Tibetan Buddhism.
Kang La and Numa La Passes: The trek involves crossing high mountain passes such as Kang La and Numa La, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. These passes provide a sense of accomplishment and adventure.
Trans-Himalayan Culture: As you move from Dolpo to Jomsom, you'll experience the transition from Tibetan Buddhist culture to a mix of Tibetan and Nepali influences in the Mustang region. This cultural diversity is reflected in the architecture, traditions, and daily life.
Unique Mustang Landscapes: The trail gradually leads you into the Mustang region, famous for its unique landscapes resembling an arid desert. The contrast between the barren landscape and the snowy peaks is truly mesmerizing.
Ancient Villages and Monasteries: Along the way, you'll pass through charming villages like Kagbeni and visit monasteries like Jharkot Monastery, which provide insights into the local way of life and religious practices.
Apple Orchards and Local Cuisine: In the Mustang region, you'll encounter apple orchards, and the local apple products, such as apple cider and dried apples, are a delicious treat. You'll also have the opportunity to savor local dishes.
Jomsom Town: The trek concludes in Jomsom, a bustling town in the Mustang region. Here, you can relax, celebrate the completion of your trek, and reflect on the incredible journey you've undertaken.
The Best time for Dolpo Jomsom Circuit Trek
The best time for the Dolpo Jomsom Trek is during the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons. These months offer the most favorable weather and trail conditions for a safe and enjoyable trek. Here's why these seasons are recommended.
Autumn (September to November):
Stable Weather: Autumn is widely considered the best trekking season in Nepal, including the Dolpo Jomsom Trek. The weather is generally stable, with clear skies, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures during the day.
Excellent Visibility: The clear skies provide exceptional visibility, allowing trekkers to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and snow-capped peaks.
Crisp Air and Vibrant Scenery: After the monsoon season, the air is clean and crisp, and the landscapes are lush and green. This creates a beautiful contrast with the rugged terrain, making the trek visually stunning.
Spring (March to May):
Mild Temperatures: Spring brings mild temperatures, making it pleasant for trekking during the day and warmer at lower altitudes. It's a great time to experience the outdoors without extreme cold.
Blooming Flora: The rhododendron forests and other vegetation come to life with vibrant blooms, creating a colorful and picturesque backdrop for your trek.
Clear Views: Similar to autumn, spring offers clear skies and excellent visibility, which is ideal for capturing stunning photographs and enjoying breathtaking mountain views.
Both of these seasons offer a unique and rewarding experience on the Dolpo Jomsom Trek. However, keep in mind that the trek involves remote areas, high mountain passes, and challenging terrain. It's important to be well-prepared with proper gear, physical fitness, and a reliable trekking itinerary. Due to the nature of this trek, it's highly recommended to go with an experienced guide or through a reputable trekking agency to ensure your safety and enjoyment.
Duration : 25 days | Activity : Trekking/Hiking | Trip Date : Flexible |
Private Trip : Available | Group Trip : Available | Stay : Tea House/ Hotel |
Program Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Nepal.
When you arrive at Tibhuvan International Airport, our guide will pick you up and take you to your hotel in the bustling Thamel district of Kathmandu. Depending on your arrival time, you can choose to relax for the next journey, see the city's attractions, or shop for adventure gear in one of Kathmandu's many adventure supply stores. We'll assemble our bikes and be ready for the journey in the afternoon.
Day 2 - Fly to Nepalgunj.
Day 3 - Fly From Nepalgunj To Juphal, Trek To Dunai(2,150m), 3 Hours..
Day 4 - Trek To Chhepka(2687m) 6 hours.
Day 5 - Trek to Chunuwar(3110m) 6 hours.
Day 6 - Trek to Phoksundo Lake(3600m) 5-6 hrs.
Day 7 - Phoksundo – Rest day.
Day 8 - Trek to Sallaghari 5-6hrs.
Day 9 - Trek to Nangdala High Camp(4717 m) 5-6 hrs.
Day 10 - Trek to Shey Gompa(4280m) Crossing Nangdala Pass(5240m) 5-6 hrs.
Day 11 - Trek to Namgung Gompa - crossing Shey La Pass(5100m) 6-7 hours.
Day 12 - Trek to Saldang 4-5 hrs.
Day 13 - Trek to Yangjer Gumba(4599m).
Day 14 - Trek to Khoma village.
Day 15 - Trek to Shimen.
Day 16 - Trek to Tinje.
Day 17 - Trek to Yak Kharka.
Day 18 - Trek to Chharka via Mola Pass(5030m).
Day 19 - Trek to Norbulung/ Nulungsumda.
Day 20 - Trek to Ghalden Ghuldum (4247m) Crossing Niwala (5120m) and Jungbenla (5550m) passes..
Day 21 - Trek to Sangta(3777m).
Day 22 - Trek to Phalyak(3175m).
Day 23 - Fly Jomsom to Pokhara and to Kathmandu.
Day 24 - Weather-Related Flight Delay And Cancellation Buffer Day.
Day 25 - Departure from Nepal.
Include/Exclude
Price Includes
- All necessary ground transfers.
- All necessary accommodations as per the itinerary.
- Tea House accommodations during the trek.
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trekking.
- All necessary paper works.
- All necessary trekking permits.
- Experienced and First Aid-trained trekking guide.
- Strong, helpful porters.
- Comprehensive medical supplies.
- Trekking map.
- Insurance of all local team.
- Warm clothing and trekking gear for staff.
- Sleeping bag and trip duffle bag.
- Trekking certificate issued by us.
- Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
Price Excludes
- Nepal Visa fee.
- International flights.
- All meals not mentioned in inclusions.
- Personal expenses not stipulated.
- Optional add-ons.
- Gratuities.
Guest Reviews
Lisa G
My dad and myself did plan to trek the Annapurna Circuit from Jagat to Jomsom and booked the trip via Raj and Getaway Nepal Adventure. While organizing everything in advance went smooth from the very beginning, we were amazed by the organisation of the whole trip once we arrived in Nepal - starting with a pick-up service in Kathmandu airport, also wisely chosing our guide and our porter (Manisha and Dai) which both were a perfect match to accompany us on our trekking. Both were very thoughtful and we felt like a companionship from the very beginning, but also very professional when it came to all concerns regarding the hike, like proper acclimatisation, the daily hike and everything besides. Overall organisation has been extraordinary and there hasn't been anything where Raj was not able to support (even after the trip has finished).
This really has been a once-in-a-lifetime trip and we were so happy to have this with Manisha and Dai. If ever planning to do a trekking in Nepal again (and we would love to do soon) we definitely would book with Raj again and his company one more time.
Aussie Couple
Raj and his team are awesome. Especially after seeing how other travel companies in Nepal have functioned, not only are they on top of everything, but the guides and porters working with the company are treated really well. The morning we were meant to leave for Lukla, the plane kept getting delayed. By 9 am our guides had a chopper organised to take us, where we later chatted to people who only got on one at around 2 pm and ended up hiking in the dark. We also saw multiple porters carrying more than one duffle bag, however, this company limits it to one, for the wellbeing of the porters. I cannot recommend this company enough.