Mugu Dolpo Trek Via GHT

Trip Facts

Duration:
27 days
Trekking Region:
Dolpo Region
Max. altitude:
5700
Grading:
Moderate to Demanding
Best Time:
June through October
Group size:
Min 2 Pax
Accomodation:
Camping and Lodge
Meals:
Lunch, Breakfast and Dinner
Trasportation:
Flight and Private vehicles

Trip Highlights

  • Shey Phoksundo Lake, Nepal's deepest lake with dazzling turquoise-blue waters surrounded by rocky cliffs.
  • Rara Lake, a serene Himalayan gem that adds tranquility to your trekking adventure.
  • Explore Dho-Tarap Valley, the ancient Buddhist monasteries and high-altitude settlements of this unique valley.
  • Conquer rugged passes like the Nyingma-Gyanzen La and Kagmara La, offering jaw-dropping views.
  • Spot rare animals like snow leopards, blue sheep, Himalayan yaks, and griffon vultures.
  • You may rent a down jacket and sleeping bag for free this holiday season.

Trip Overview

Are you looking for a trekking experience like no other? One that takes you through rugged trails, over soaring high passes, and into some of the world's most isolated communities? The Mugu Dolpo Trek via Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure into the heart of Nepal's remote northwest.

The Dolpo Mugu Trek, one of Nepal's hidden classic routes, begins at Juphal Airport in Dolpa District and concludes at Mugu's Talcha Airport. This epic journey along the Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) promises untamed wilderness and unparalleled beauty. The trek is completely wild camping, leading you through numerous high passes and offering an intimate encounter with Nepal's most pristine landscapes.

Along the way, you'll explore the stunning Shey Phoksundo National Park and Rara National Park, two jewels of Nepal's trans-Himalayan ecosystem. These include turquoise-colored water, the tranquil expanse of Rara Lake, and an almost endless number of breathtaking views that change with every turn of the trail.

More than natural beauty, the trek brings you into immersion with the deep-rooted cultural heritage of the region, where ancient traditions flourish untouched by modernity. You will cross villages from another age, see everlasting customs, and experience an intact way of life-just like stepping back in time.

Wildlife lovers will be thrilled with the possibility of seeing the rare species: snow leopard, blue sheep, musk deer, pika, and marmot, as well as an array of Himalayan birds. The trek offers a front-row seat to Nepal's remarkable biodiversity, making it an unforgettable journey for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

The Mugu Dolpo Trek via GHT isn’t just a trek through the Himalayas—it’s an odyssey of discovery, a wild camping adventure, and an immersion into an untouched world of breathtaking beauty and cultural richness. Prepare to be amazed at every step as you embark on this untamed journey into Nepal's wild west.

Why Choose Mugu Dolpo Trek?

The Mugu Dolpo Trek via GHT is not just a trek — it's a journey through one of the most secluded parts of Nepal. Here's why it stands out:

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience: But Mugu Dolpo is different; it is not much travelled like the Everest or Annapurna trail routes.

Scenic Grandeur: Walk through surreal landscapes that shift from barren deserts to lush green meadows and crystalline lakes.

Cultural Richness: Meet local communities like the Thakuris and Tibetan-influenced Dolpo-pa people, known for their warm hospitality.

Adventure Challenge: Test your endurance as you navigate challenging trails, high passes, and rugged terrain.

Iconic Route via GHT: The Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) is the ultimate dream for trekkers, and Mugu Dolpo is one of its most iconic segments.

Be it an accomplished trekker or just an adventure-loving soul wanting raw and wild experiences, Mugu Dolpo provides just the right mix of adventure, beauty, and isolation.

What Makes This Trek Unique?

  1. Part of the Great Himalayan Trail (GHT): This isn't just any trek—it's a slice of the legendary GHT, a cross-Nepal route that tests the grit of even the most experienced trekkers.
  2. Jaw-Dropping Scenery: From the turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo to the panoramic vistas from Nagcha La Pass, the variety of landscapes is staggering.
  3. Rare Wildlife Spotting: Shey Phoksundo National Park is a habitat for snow leopards, blue sheep, musk deer, and Himalayan griffons. You might spot one if you're lucky!
  4. Sacred Monasteries: The iconic Shey Gompa Monastery in Upper Dolpo is a major pilgrimage site. Walking here feels like stepping into a spiritual realm.

When to Trek in Mugu Dolpo

The best seasons for trekking in Mugu Dolpo are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). During these times, the weather is stable, the skies are clear, and the temperature is ideal for high-altitude trekking. The winter months bring heavy snowfall, while the summer monsoon makes the trail slippery and challenging.

Those who plan to trek during the summer period (June, July and August) should be prepared for rain, especially in the lower altitudes; however, the Mugu Dolpo area is in a rainy area because mizong during the rainy season the regions may receive little quantity of rain than the rest of Nepal. Some of the trails may become slightly muddy and get a little challenging, but the entire scenery is exceptionally colourful with the view of the green vegetation. It is also possible to define winter perspective, which includes December and February when there is snow and extreme cold. Still, there is no vegetation, and treks are blocked by snow and frosts, which makes winter treks suitable only for experienced travellers.

A Personalized Experience

The Mugu Dolpo Trek is an opportunity to go out of the standard and ordinary and have an out-of-the-world experience. But at the same time, the results are priceless.” One feels pretty serene when passing through such a calm and least exploited environment. Some days, you wake up in the morning, and all you hear is the wind blowing or the sound of a stream. There, you will find yourself across the entire country, travelling through many remote villages you would think to belong to a different era, people who have little to do with modern civilization, and various terrains you would classify as alien. This trek is not an end to a means but a means in itself; there is no goal to achieve. It is all about stripping down one’s life for a short period of time and stepping back from the daily rat racing. So, an in-depth trek that may call for a test of your stamina along with the spiritual benefits and successful blending of culture, the Mugu Dolpo Trek is welcome for you.

The Mugu Dolpo Trek is not just a walk – this is the wilderness expedition into one of the most spectacular and isolated areas of Nepal. Some may be interested in the stunning and pristine terrains which are untouched, others may be interested in the culture influenced by the Tibetans and or perhaps one might just need a Good Trek away from home and this trek provides just that and much much more.

So, are you ready to step off the beaten path and experience Nepal in its raw, unfiltered beauty? Let us help you plan your perfect adventure! Contact us today to learn more about the Mugu Dolpo Trek or to customize your itinerary.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel
Day 2: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj flight 1 hour (Afternoon)
Day 3: Dunai to Chhepka(2850m) 6 hours
Day 4: Chhepka to Sumduwa(3885m) 5-6 hours
Day 5: Sumduwa to Phoksumdo Lake (3600m) 4-5 hours
Day 6: Acclimatization/rest day at Phoksumdo Lake.
Day 7: Phoksundo Lake to North Bank(3700m) 4-5 hours
Day 8: North Bank to Kangla Basecamp (4600m) 5-6 hours
Day 9: Kangla Basecamp to Shey Gumba (4370m) 6-7 hours via Kang La pass (5350m)
Day 10: Rest day at Shey Gompa
Day 11: Shey Gompa to Tora/ Samling Gompa (4120) 6-7 hours
Day 12: Tora/ Samling Gompa to Bhijer (3850m) 3 hours
Day 13: Bhijer to Tora Khola (3400m) Crossing Yambur La (4800m) 6-7 hours
Day 14: Tora Khola to Pho (4020m) 3-4 hours
Day 15: Pho to Daldung Khor(4700m) cross Nyingma Gyalzen La (5563m) 8-9 hours
Day 16: Daldung Khor to Swaksa Khola/Pung Kharka (4500m) 3-4 hours
Day 17: Pung Kharka to Marjung Khola or the Chyandi Khola (4800m) crossing Cross the Yala La (5414m) 7-8 hours.
Day 18: Chyandi Khola to Takla Khola (3750m) 7-8 hours
Day 19: Takla Khola to Thajuchaur (4000m) Crossing the Chyargo La (5100m) 7-8 hours
Day 20: Thajuchaur to Shilenchaur Kharka (2945m) 5-6 hours
Day 21: Sparse Day- It can be used in case of difficulty or Detour to Mugu village
Day 22: Shilenchaur KharkaTrek to Pulu or Riusa (2250m) 7-8 hours.
Day 23: Pulu to Kumpha (2010m) 7-8 hours.
Day 24: Kumpha to Rara Lake (3010m) 7 hours.
Day 25: Fly from Talcha to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu.
Day 26: Free day in Kathmandu, which can also be used as a contingency.
Day 27: Departure day

Detail Itinerary

When you arrived in kathmandu Airport ( TIA ) you will be directly transfer to 3 stars hotel by private car or tourist bus. You will be exhausted after long flight so you can relax in the hotel in the evening you will be invited for welcome dinner and your tour guide will brief you regarding the trek and further preparations.

Most of the time, people fly in the evening to skip the high temperatures in Nepalganj. From Kathmandu to Nepalganj flight will be around 55 minutes, when we land then we move to the hotel and rest. 

Nepalganj is one of the most crucial places for Himalayan regions like Dolpo, Mugu and Jumla for shopping for hardware and food items. Nepalganj is connected to the India Border so it's comparatively cheaper than other regions. 

In the afternoon tourist bus and your guide will come to your hotel and you will drive to the airport for the Nepalganj flight. The flight will be one hour and you will see beautiful mountains from your cabin. In Nepalganj you will be transferred to 3 stars hotel and after checking in you can visit some nearby cities with your guide or independently.

Overnight: Camping  

Elevation: 2100m 

Duration: Approx 1 hour by jeep 

 

Early morning we will have breakfast and proceed for the actual trek we started from Dunai. After one hour of trek, we will encounter with National Park Check post where we will show a permit and buy a National Park entry. After checking out we follow the Phoksundo River with beautiful small hamlets on the way where Phoksundo people stay here in the winter for their animals. 

Elevation:2700m

Overnight: Camping 

Duration: Approx 7 hours 

Embark on an adventure trek this day we again follow the Phoksundo River into Long Pine and Juniper Forest. After 4 hours of trek, we will encounter Riyachi Village where small lodges are running and local people can be seen. After Riyachi Village we will trek again for about 2 hours then our destination Samjana Hotel will be met. 

Elevation: 3100m 

Overnight: Camping 

Duration: Approx 7 hours 

After leaving Samjana Hotel we will visit the one of the best and big school in Dolpa called Tapriza Secondary School, Where our Company managing director (Norbu) had studied 12 years. Tapriza school is specially built for Children from the Phoksundo Region with an ambitions to protect Bon religion and culture. School is residential with the help of Private and government partnership. 

After Leaving the school we will again follow the Phoksundo river and ascended towards phoksundo lake to our destinations. 

 Rigmo village and phoksundo lake is situated in the lap of Mount Kanjirowa. Sagar himal, Kanjirowa and kangla streams are the main source of water for Phoksundo lake. From Rigmo village we can see stunning Mount Norbukang, Teikatong and Kanjirowa. 

Lunch Point - Rigmo Vilage 

Trek distance - 4-5 hours 

Elevations Of Phoksundo Lake - 3700M 

Overnight: Camping 

During our free days in Phoksundo Lake, we can do so many things. Phoksundo Lake is a perfect combination of nature and culture. Where you can do multiple things in a single day like nature walking and photography, Bird watching, meditation relaxation, cultural exploration, wildlife observation and short hikes. 

In the Afternoon we can visit Bon Monastery which was built in the 15th Century. Phoksundo Lake is situated at 3640m which is also known as a non-living lake. 

We start our trek before sunrise and we move towards the west shores of the Phoksundo Lake with a beautiful cliff path and begins uphill and downhill to the next shores of the lake. During the trek, we will see dense birch trees and possibilities of some wild animals.

Lunch - Cholophugu 

Trek Distance - 7-8 hours 

Elevations of Ruktang - 3900m 

Overnight: Camping 

After Having breakfast our journey will begin through the deep gorge with both-sided giant cliffs towards base camp. Many small wooden bridges will be seen on the way, slowly oxygen level will decrease as we ascend towards Kangla pass (5300m). In the evening temperature will decrease and cold winds will directly hit your face. 

Lunch - Pack lunch 

Trek Distance - 7-8 hours 

Elevation of High Camp - 4850M 

Embark on an adventurous trek to Shey Gompa, at an elevation of 4,160 meters, via the stunning King La Pass. This journey segment typically takes around 7 to 8 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the trail conditions.

Leaving behind the captivating landscapes of Nangdala or Kang La Phedi, you will navigate challenging terrain as you ascend to the magnificent Kang La Pass. The trail will test your endurance and hiking skills, with steep inclines and rocky sections. However, the panoramic vistas and the sense of achievement make it all worthwhile.

Reaching the King La Pass, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and vast valleys stretching out before you. Take a moment to soak in the grandeur of nature and capture memories that will last a lifetime.

From the pass, the trail descends towards Shey Gompa. You will traverse diverse landscapes, including alpine meadows, picturesque valleys, and glacial streams as you go down. The beauty of the surroundings will enthral you as you continue your journey.

Upon reaching Shey Gompa, you will be greeted by this ancient Buddhist monastery’s tranquillity and spiritual ambience. The tented camp, set up close to the monastery, offers a comfortable and scenic overnight accommodation option. Rest in your tent amidst the serene surroundings, enjoying nature’s peacefulness.

Exploring Shey Gompa is a must-do experience during your stay. Immerse yourself in the rich Buddhist traditions, admire the intricate architecture, and witness the spiritual practices of the resident monks. The cultural and religious significance of the monastery adds depth to your trekking adventure.

During your overnight stay at the tented camp, you will have the opportunity to unwind, share stories with fellow trekkers, and relish the camaraderie of the outdoors. The support team at the camp will ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

With its idyllic location and panoramic views, Shey Gompa provides a memorable and soul-stirring setting in the heart of the Himalayas.

Overnight: Camping 

Duration: Approx Approx 8 hours 

Elevation: 4100m 

We have a day to explore the environs and catch up on laundry and other camp chores. In the afternoon we side trip to visit the amazing Kagyupa monastery of Tsa Kang which is perched on a narrow ledge high on a cliff face. To get there we have to climb part way on the trail which pilgrims follow to make the 'Kora' or circuit of the Crystal Mountain. And we get back to Shey Gompa again.

Our trail heads north from Shey Gompa, cutting up the hillside on the east side of the Tartan Khola and skirting around at the head of a tributary valley to a high grazing area near the Den La. Following a broad stock trail across the open hillside, we drop down to Tora where the people from Bhijer graze their yaks in the summer. Depending on how long it has taken to get here, we could set up camp at Tora (4500m) or drop down to Samling Monastery (4120m).

Elevation: 4100m

Overnight: Camping 

Duration: Approx 7 hours 

Samling is the oldest Bon Gompa in Dolpo and it was established in the 8th century. Its several white and brick-red buildings and chortens (Stupa) are scattered across a grassy slope and adorned with prayer flags. We will spend some time looking around. From Samling it's just a short walk to the village of Bhijer (3850m), a pleasant, welcoming and very Dolpo Pa village which sees very few trekkers. The house at Bhijer typically has an upper living space with the ground floor being used to shelter animals at night. The village has an open, sunny location and there's lots to see and do here. Look out for the local women doing their spinning, watch the barley harvest or visit the gompa. There is also a simple school, shop and a health post. This is the last place where the cook team may be able to purchase some fresh vegetables before reaching Mugu.

Overnight: Local Lodge

Elevation: 3850m

Duration: Approx 3 hours 

We'll aim to reach camp at Pho in the late morning. We head downstream (north) for about half an hour and then turn to head westwards and steeply uphill to the small village of Pho (4020m) which may be the most remote settlement in Nepal. Few people live here now and there are signs that the numbers are dwindling. Some of the fields on the edge of the village are eroded and no longer maintained. Nevertheless, Pho is a good place to make camp with level pitches and a clean and plentiful water supply.

Elevation: 4020m

Overnight: Local Tea House 

Duration: Approx 7 hours 

Once again, we are likely to see lots of blue sheep on this part of our route. We then have a similar, if slightly less steep, continuation of the day's walk up to our and cross Nyingma Gyanzen La. From here we can see numerous 6000 to 6800-metre snow-peaks of the Kanjiroba Himal more than make up for that. From Nyimagalzen La we descend for 2 hours and reach Daldung Khor and we set our camp.

Overnight: Camping

Duration: Approx 9 hours 

Elevation: 4700m 

Today is a short trek, as we had a very long and hard day yesterday. After breakfast descend to Swaksa Khola and follow the river for 2-3 hours we reach at magnificent valley. This is a magnificent valley trending north-south which sees very few trekkers, although these high valleys are visited in early summer each year by local people searching for the valuable caterpillar fungus known as Yarsagumba.

Elevation: 4500m 

Duration: Approx 4 hours 

Overnight: Camping 

The route initially takes us alongside the Swaksa Khola and we can look out for the hoof marks of blue sheep and the pug marks of snow leopards in the sand beside the stream. We then turn left out of the valley and make a long and sustained ascent across a grassy hillside to the Yala La (5250m) which we reach after about 3 hours. We'll spend a bit of time at the pass to enjoy more great views, and snow-capped peaks in all directions, before setting off on the rocky descent into the valley of the Chyandi Khola. We reach our camp in the valley at an elevation of around 4800 metres in the late afternoon.

Today is a long and challenging day as we descend the Chyandi Khola. There is no well-made path and we have to negotiate a lot of difficult terrain, possibly including the use of a safety rope on some short sections. Progress is likely to be slow and we will need to ford the river several times. Equally, we will have to climb up above the river at times to find the best route and this will involve contouring on a poor trail for extended periods, before a final zig-zagging descent through ancient birch forest to the junction with the Takla Khola. A final river crossing on a log bridge before our arrival at camp may also require the use of a safety rope.

Another long day, initially trekking to Chyargo La Phedi at 4300 metres and then steadily upwards to the cairn-marked Chyargo La (5100m), which we reach after around 5 hours. This is a bleak and rocky place but with amazing views which provide a great overview of some of the geography we have been travelling through over recent days. It is wild terrain. A long descent then takes us into a gorge-like valley where the route becomes more tenuous again, with a mix of thick forest and several river crossings to negotiate. There is a place to camp at Thajuchaur at around 4000 metres elevation.

Overnight: Camping 

Duration: Approx 8 hours 

Elevation: 4000m 

It's a relatively short distance from our camp down to the Mugu Khola, but making progress through this steep-sided and forested valley remains time-consuming with several more river crossings. Thankfully, there are bridges for the last couple of these crossings, before we emerge quite suddenly into the valley of the Mugu Khola. Here, we meet the main trail that links Rara Lake to the south with the village of Mugu and Tibet to the north.

Overnight: Local Tea House 

Duration: Approx 6 hours 

Elevation:  2945m

This day we use it if there is difficulty during the trek from Pho to Shilenchaur Kharka. If not then we detour to Mugu village. Great Himalaya Trail heads south from here, but we turn north (on the good trail) to Mugu which is about 3 hours away. There's a chance of encountering other trekkers on this trail. Arriving at Mugu (3400m), we set up camp on the broad, flat valley floor immediately below the village.

We have 3 days to trek to the airport at Talcha just to the east of Rara Lake and for the whole of this journey, we will be on reasonably good trails that link the villages in the valley of the Mugu Karnali. On this first day, we descend steadily to the confluence of the Mugu with the NamlangNadi at Tyar and continue westwards for a further hour or two to a camping place beside the river below one of two villages, either Pulu or a little further on, Riusa.

Another longish day in terms of distance but no big climbs, just 'Nepali undulation' beside the river. Again, there are lots of great views and we'll have plenty of opportunity to interact with the local people that we meet on the trail. We pass through the striking settlement of Mangri which sits amongst its terraced fields on a bench above the south side of the river. Now heading in a south-westerly direction, we continue beside the Mugu Karnali through the village of Chhaila to a camping place close to the houses of Kumpha (2010m).

Overnight: Camping

Duration: Approx 8 hours 

Elevation: 2010m 

Cost Includes

  • 4-night hotel in Kathmandu on a bed-and-breakfast basis
  • 1 night hotel in Nepalganj with breakfast
  • Domestic flights from Kathmandu - Nepalganj - Juphal and return airfare
  • One expert trek leader or Hire Norbu along with a local assistant
  • All meals ( the best and healthiest food in the local tea houses) And accommodations
  • Trekking permit and national park fees
  • Trekking equipment -Mattresses, Member tents, and Kitchen utensils.
  • Three-time meals during a trek along with Tea/coffee and snacks.
  • Staff's salary, food, insurance, and clothing.
    Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.

Cost Excludes

  • Nepal Visa 
  • International flights
  • Personal expenses and meals in Kathmandu.
  • Travel insurance (It's mandatory to have for Rescue and evacuation ).
  • Tips and gratitude for staff and guide. 
  • Donation and local entrance fee.
  • Extra baggage weight on domestic flight
  • Personal expenses like Alcohol, Local fabric, and Local monuments. 

Departure Dates

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Equipments

  • Clothing: Waterproof jackets, thermal layers, down jackets, trekking pants.
  • Gear: Trekking poles, headlamp, sunglasses, sleeping bag (rated for -20°C).
  • Other Essentials: First-aid kit, water purification tablets, snacks, sunscreen.

For more Full Details, Click Here.

FAQs

The trek is considered challenging due to high passes, long walking hours, and remote paths. Prior trekking experience is recommended.

The trek spans approximately 200-240 km, depending on the route and weather conditions.

The distance from Kathmandu to Dolpa by road is approximately 520-650 kilometers (323-404 miles), depending on the route taken. However, due to the rugged and underdeveloped road conditions, the journey is extremely challenging and lengthy. Typically, the road trip involves several days of travel, often requiring a combination of bus and jeep rides. The most common route is via Nepalgunj, which can take up to 20-25 hours by road from Kathmandu, followed by a long drive or flight to Dolpa. Most trekkers prefer to fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and then to Juphal, the gateway to Dolpo, to avoid the arduous journey.

The Mugu Dolpo Trek is a challenging journey through Nepal's remote northwest, following the Great Himalayan Trail (GHT). It offers trekkers the chance to explore unspoiled landscapes, experience rich Tibetan-influenced culture, and visit landmarks like Phoksundo Lake and Shey Gompa Monastery.

Due to the remoteness of the region, accommodation is primarily in tents. Trekkers should be prepared for camping throughout the journey.

 

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation is essential for this trek.

Exploring on the Mugu Dolpo Trek via the GHT is a rewarding experience that offers unparalleled natural beauty and cultural richness. Proper preparation and understanding of the journey ahead will enhance your trekking adventure.

The Mugu Dolpo trek typically spans 27 days, covering approximately 200-250 kilometers, depending on the specific route taken.

Engage in regular cardiovascular and strength training exercises at least two months prior to the trek. Activities like hiking, running, and stair climbing can help build the necessary endurance.

 

Altitude sickness is a concern due to the high elevations reached during the trek. It's crucial to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.

 

Useful Information

Difficulty Level of the Mugu Dolpo Trek via GHT

The long duration, being a bit out of the way, the high altitude, and rugged terrain place this trek as a serious challenge. The trekkers must have prior experiences in high-altitude trekking, good physical fitness levels, and a sense of adventure.

Key Challenges:

  • Altitudes reaching over 5,000 meters at high passes.
  • Long trekking hours (6-8 hours daily).
  • Remote trails with no access to modern facilities.

Mugu Dolpo Trek via GHT Distance and Route

The total distance of the Mugu Dolpo Trek via the GHT route is approximately 250 to 300 kilometers (155 to 186 miles), depending on your chosen itinerary. The journey typically takes around 25 to 30 days, making it one of the longer and more challenging treks in Nepal.

Route Overview

Start Point: Jumla (accessible by flight from Kathmandu or Nepalgunj)

End Point: Juphal or Dunai (depending on the itinerary)

Major Stops: Rara Lake, Gamgadhi, Shey Phoksundo Lake, Dho-Tarap, Kagmara La, and Juphal.

The trail winds through high-altitude mountain passes, alpine forests, deep gorges, and traditional settlements, immersing trekkers in the untamed beauty of the Himalayas.

Cost of the Mugu Dolpo Trek via GHT

The cost of the Mugu Dolpo Trek varies depending on the following factors:

Permits and Fees: Restricted area permits, GHT trail fees, and local taxes.

Guide and Porter Fees: Hiring an experienced guide and porters is essential for navigation and support.

Accommodation & Food: Simple teahouses or tented camping.

On average, expect to spend $3,000 to $5,000 USD for the full experience, covering guides, porters, permits, accommodation, and food. We, the Dolpo Caravan is Offering the Mugu Dolpo Trek Via GHT at USD $4400 per person.

Essential Tips for the Mugu Dolpo Trek

  • Get Physically Prepared: Train in cardio, endurance, and strength to prepare for the high-altitude trails.
  • Pack Smartly: Essentials include trekking poles, sleeping bags, layered clothing, first aid kits, and high-energy snacks.
  • Stay Hydrated: Carry a water filter to avoid dehydration.
  • Plan for Flexibility: Allow extra days for acclimatization and unforeseen delays.
  • Permit Requirements: Obtain restricted area permits and Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card before starting the trek.

Essential Trekking Preparations For Nepal

Fitness & Preparation Tips for Mugu Dolpo Trek Via GHT

This is a demanding trek that requires a high level of fitness. Here's how to prepare:

  • Cardio Training: Build stamina through long-distance running, hiking, or cycling.
  • Strength Training: Focus on legs, back, and core muscles.
  • Altitude Acclimatization: Train at high altitudes, if possible.

Summing Up

Mugu Dolpo Trek via GHT is what a trekker is always dreaming of. It provides lifetime memories with stunning natural beauty, challenging trails, and an authentic Himalayan experience. From the turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake to the quiet beauty of Rara Lake, every moment on this trail is an adventure.

If you're looking for a path less traveled, where you can fully immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Nepal's Himalayas, the Mugu Dolpo Trek via GHT is calling your name. Lace-up your boots, pack your bags, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure!

Mugu Dolpo Trek Via GHT Reviews

Go Dolpo!

First of all, I would like to once again thank Norbu, Hari, Ajay and Lundup for what has turned up to be one of my best mountain experiences ever. And this for several reasons. Norbu&team are not only professional: experienced, responsible, quickly adaptable to any circumstances and knowledgeable - and for this trek you need someone who knows Dolpo, not just from studying it but from living there. This is already a high bar but these are the basics you expect from anyone taking you to the high mountains. But all four of them offered something extra - naturally positive attitude, genuine care, attentiveness, understanding of one’s needs - when you are a solo travelling woman, this matters even more - and fun! And Lundup’s cooking was a miracle every day - it really was. Secondly, Dolpo is stunning. After two treks I did in Nepal in previous years, I was wondering if I should come back to Nepal again now or rather venture elsewhere. But Norbu convinced me to choose Dolpo and he was just right. The place is breathtaking, not only for its beauty, high mountains, surprising nature and very exceptional culture. But for what to me were the mountains at their best: you are on your own. This region is vast, secluded, with very few hamlets, basically no tourism. All of a sudden the usual points of reference disappear and you have no choice but to adjust to the place, fold into it, go with it. And make no mistake, the trek is strenuous, for the body and a bit for the mind.The description is very accurate. But this only means you have to prepare well - because it is worth every effort and what you see and experience, is rewarding beyond words. That is also why you need to be there with a good guide and a good team, someone who gives support and confidence when you try to embrace the nature and own limits. And so I was very, very lucky to do this with trek Norbu and his colleagues. They are fast developing, young company, doing a very good job and I am sure Norbu will grow it and expand further. They have all it takes - ideas, determination, open mind, creativity, they are good colleagues and they work very hard. Goes without saying that I would be happy to trek together again. I can highly recommend this team to everyone, not least those lost searching whom to choose as their guide in Himalaya. Joanna
  • Reviewed by:
    Joanna Szychowska, Poland

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