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Phoksundo Lake in Upper Dolpo - Dolpo Crystal Mountain to Mustang Traverse, Nepal
Phoksundo Lake in Upper Dolpo  | Bill Quinlan
Phoksumdo Lake, Dolpo region, Nepal - Dolpo Crystal Mountain to Mustang Traverse, Nepal
Phoksumdo Lake, Dolpo region, Nepal
Saldang Village and mountain landscape in the Upper Dolpo of Nepal - Dolpo Crystal Mountain to Mustang Traverse, Nepal
Saldang Village and mountain landscape in the Upper Dolpo of Nepal
Walking through the gullies of Upper Dolpo - Dolpo Crystal Mountain to Mustang Traverse, Nepal
Walking through the gullies of Upper Dolpo  | Chris Jones

Dolpo Crystal Mountain to Mustang Traverse

A remarkable trek for the Himalayan connoisseur

Nepal
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 7 reviews

28 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: DCMM
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 28 Days
Activities
  • 21 day trek
Style
  • Classic Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 4 nights hotel
  • 23 nights camping
Meals

Valued at USD$1150

  • 24 Dinners
  • 25 Lunches
  • 27 Breakfasts
Internal Flights

Valued at USD$735

Difficulty Grading  
7 / 10

Challenging

Carbon Footprint  

24kg of CO2-e PP per day

(635kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Walk through the landscapes that inspired Peter Matthiessen’s The Snow Leopard, a place of spiritual mystery and breathtaking scale
  • Hike along the vivid turquoise shores of Phoksumdo Lake, among pine, juniper and birch forests and wild, rocky ridges.
  • Cross remote high passes between Dolpo and Mustang, with endless mountain horizons that reach toward the borderlands of Tibet
  • Trek to the fabled Crystal Mountain, a sacred pilgrimage site in Dolpo, and visit monasteries where Tibetan Buddhist and Bon traditions continue much as they have for centuries

Overview

This is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Dolpo, a secluded region that inspired Peter Matthiessen’s book The Snow Leopard and Eric Valli’s film Himalaya. It’s a land where ancient Buddhist and Bon traditions still guide daily life. Bon is the indigenous religion of Tibet, predating Buddhism, and its rituals and beliefs are still deeply woven into the culture here.

Our specially crafted itinerary begins with an ascent to the sacred waters of Phoksumdo Lake, set among pine and birch forests, before crossing into a wild corner of the Trans Himalaya rarely visited. From Dolpo we traverse east into Mustang, gaining a deep insight into these remote cultural landscapes and experiencing the rugged beauty.

With 20 days of trekking, this is a truly extended Himalayan adventure that takes you further, the kind of journey that often leaves travellers transformed by the sheer scale and spirit of the places they have walked through.

Itinerary

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On arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, you are met by a World Expeditions representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax or explore the surrounding area. In the afternoon, you attend a pre-trek briefing where your guide outlines the journey and distributes your trekking equipment. The day concludes with a welcome dinner, providing an opportunity to meet your fellow travellers.

Meals: Nil

This morning you transfer to the airport for the flight to Nepalgunj, located in the lowland Terai region near the Indian border. As you descend, the landscape changes from mountain terrain to subtropical plains. On arrival, you transfer to your hotel and have time to relax. The day concludes in Nepalgunj as you prepare for the next stage of your journey. Accommodation: Hotel Nepalgunj

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you take a flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,475m / 8,120ft), entering the remote mountain landscapes of Dolpo. On arrival, you meet your trekking crew and drive approximately 1.5 hours to Rupghat (2,070m / 6,791ft) through villages and river valleys. This marks your transition into the remote regions of western Nepal. The day concludes at your camp in Rupghat. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you begin your trek, following the river valley towards the entrance of Shey Phoksundo National Park. After permits are checked, the trail continues through forested hillsides and traditional settlements as you gradually gain altitude. Along the way, you may see bharal (blue sheep) on the surrounding slopes. The day concludes at Chhekpa (2,720m / 8,924ft), where your camp is set. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you follow the Suli Gad River, passing through small settlements and crossing suspension bridges along the way. The trail ascends gradually through blue pine and cedar forest, with occasional open sections along the valley. At times, the path climbs above the river, offering views into the Suli Gad gorge and surrounding peaks. The day concludes at Boring (3,110m / 10,203ft), where your camp is set. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you ascend out of the gorge towards Phoksundo Lake, following the valley to the confluence of the Phoksundo Khola and Yulung Khola. The trail passes through settlements including Samjhana before climbing steadily on switchbacks towards Ringmo. As you gain elevation, views open to a waterfall flowing from Phoksundo Lake and surrounding peaks. The day concludes at Ringmo (3,650m / 11,975ft), set above the lake in a remote mountain setting. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today is an acclimatisation day at Phoksundo Lake, set among steep cliffs and mountain peaks. You explore the surrounding area and take a short hike to a nearby Bon monastery. The lake is known for its striking colour and cultural significance in the region. The day concludes at your camp in Ringmo. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you leave Ringmo and follow the shoreline of Phoksundo Lake, with views across its turquoise waters. A climb leads to a high crest above the lake, offering a broad view of the surrounding landscape. The trail then descends through birch forest to a meadow at the northern end of the lake. The day concludes at Chholupu (3,650m / 11,975ft), where your camp is set near the lakeshore. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you follow the Phoksundo Khola upstream through a broad valley, passing a side gorge leading towards Ngadra La. The trail then continues along the valley floor before climbing gradually onto grassy ridges. As you gain altitude, views open across the surrounding mountain landscape. The day concludes at Lar Tsa (4,200m / 13,780ft), where your camp is set. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you continue ascending into the high valleys of Dolpo, following a steady climb to a ridge above camp. From the crest, the trail descends gently across alpine terrain. The surrounding landscape opens to high mountain pastures and rugged peaks. The day concludes at Mendok Ding (4,620m / 15,157ft), where your camp is set. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you ascend to Sehu La (5,120m / 16,798ft), entering the high mountain landscapes of inner Dolpo. From the pass, views extend across the surrounding ranges before the trail continues along the route around Crystal Mountain. The path then crosses smaller passes and descends towards the Tar Valley, passing Tsakang Gompa along the way. The day concludes at Shey Gompa (4,250m / 13,944ft), where your camp is set in a broad alpine meadow. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you spend a rest and exploration day at Shey Gompa, located beneath Crystal Mountain in the remote landscapes of inner Dolpo. You have time to explore the monastery and surrounding valley. Optional walks to nearby viewpoints offer perspectives of the surrounding peaks and terrain. The day concludes at your camp at Shey Gompa. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you ascend through alpine terrain towards Shey La (5,010m / 16,437ft), following a gradual climb through rocky landscapes. From the pass, views extend across remote valleys and surrounding peaks. The trail then descends towards Namgung (4,403m / 14,445ft), a village set beneath steep cliffs. The day concludes at your camp in Namgung. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you follow a high trail across ridgelines towards Saldung Gaun (3,770m / 12,369ft). The route climbs gradually to a ridge, with views across the surrounding mountain landscape. From here, you descend towards the village, one of the main settlements in Upper Dolpo. The day concludes at Saldung Gaun, where your camp is set. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you cross the Nagon Khola and begin a steady ascent towards Khoma La (4,565m / 14,977ft). From the pass, views extend across the dry valleys and rugged mountain landscapes of Upper Dolpo. The trail then descends through alpine terrain towards Khama Gaun (4,060m / 13,320ft). The day concludes at your camp in this remote mountain settlement. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you cross the Gurchau Khola and ascend towards Shimen La (4,375m / 14,354ft). From the pass, views extend across the Panjyang Valley and surrounding high-altitude landscapes. The trail then descends through a quiet valley, following the river downstream. The day concludes at Phu Gompa (3,937m / 12,917ft), where your camp is set. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you follow the Panzang Valley upstream, gradually gaining altitude through remote alpine terrain. The trail passes through small settlements and the village of Tinje, reflecting the Tibetan cultural heritage of the region. Continuing along the valley, the route leads towards the higher country of Upper Dolpo. The day concludes at Dobhan Camp (4,550m / 14,928ft), where your camp is set. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you continue following the Panzang Khola, trekking upstream through remote alpine terrain. The route leaves the main valley at the confluence with the Kehen Khola, climbing gradually towards higher ground. As you gain elevation, the landscape opens to high grazing pastures and surrounding mountain views. The day concludes at High Camp Pokhari (4,900m / 16,076ft), where your camp is set. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you ascend steadily to Mu La (4,950m / 16,240ft), with views across the surrounding mountain ranges. From the pass, the trail descends through rugged terrain towards the valleys below. The route then traverses above gorges and river valleys before reaching Chharka Bhot (4,306m / 14,127ft). The day concludes at your camp in this remote village. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today is a contingency day to allow flexibility for weather, route conditions or delays earlier in the trek. If not required, the day can be used to rest and explore the village of Chharka Bhot. Optional walks in the surrounding area offer views across the mountain landscape. The day concludes at your camp in Chharka Bhot. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you leave Chharka Bhot and follow the Dhulji River, ascending gradually through alpine pastures. As you gain elevation, the landscape becomes more open and rugged, with sections of moraine along the route. The trail continues through remote high-altitude terrain towards your campsite. The day concludes at Nakhkam Khola Camp (4,800m / 15,748ft), set beside the river. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you continue ascending into high alpine terrain as you approach the pass leading towards Mustang. The trail crosses small streams and climbs steadily through rugged mountain landscapes. As you gain elevation, the route traverses moraine fields and high-altitude terrain. The day concludes at High Camp (5,360m / 17,585ft), where your camp is set beneath the slopes of the upcoming pass. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you ascend towards Ghemi La (5,705m / 18,717ft), crossing into the Mustang region. From the pass, views extend across surrounding mountain ranges and high-altitude landscapes. The trail then descends through alpine terrain towards Kharka (5,380m / 17,651ft). The day concludes at your camp in this remote high-altitude setting. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you traverse high-altitude terrain, descending gradually across moraine and alpine landscapes towards Mustang. The trail crosses small streams and offers views across the surrounding valleys and gorges. As you continue, the landscape opens to the rugged terrain of the Mustang region. The day concludes at Camp above Ghemi (4,900m / 16,076ft), where your camp is set. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you trek towards Ghemi, following trails that descend from the high terrain into cultivated valleys. On arrival in Ghemi (3,570m / 11,713ft), you conclude the trekking section of your journey. You then transfer by vehicle, following the Kali Gandaki Valley to Jomsom (2,720m / 8,924ft). The day concludes at your lodge in Jomsom. Accommodation: Lodge

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you take a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, passing through the Kali Gandaki Gorge between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. On arrival, you connect with your onward flight to Kathmandu (1,330m / 4,364ft). After transferring to your hotel, the remainder of the day is at leisure. The day concludes in Kathmandu. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel Kathmandu

Meals: B,L

Today you have a full day to explore Kathmandu. You may choose to visit cultural sites such as Pashupatinath and Boudhanath. Alternatively, you can explore the streets and markets of Thamel or other areas of the city. The day concludes at your hotel in Kathmandu. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel Kathmandu

Meals: B

After breakfast, you are transferred to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Your trip concludes in Kathmandu

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

1 scheduled departure between 13 Sep 2027 and 13 Sep 2027.

  • Departs 13 Sep 2027 – ends 10 Oct 2027 (28 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 27 breakfasts, 25 lunches and 24 dinners including all meals on trek (valued at US$1100)
  • Accommodation at the Radisson Hotel in Kathmandu and in fully serviced wilderness campsites
  • Use of a World Expeditions trek pack including a quality sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, and down or fibre-fill jacket (valued at US$500)
  • Internal flights Kathmandu/Nepalganj/Juphal and Jomsom/Pokhara/Kathmandu
  • Expert bilingual guide
  • Arrival transfer on Day 1 and departure transfer on Day 27, or if you have prebooked accommodation at the Radisson Hotel through us
  • All park entrance fees and trekking permits (valued at US$868)
  • World Expeditions Souvenir kit bag
  • Safety equipment including satellite phone, portable high altitude chamber and expedition medical kit
  • Porters to carry all personal and group equipment, including porter insurance

Not included

  • International flights
  • Travel Insurance
  • Visa
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
  • Bottled water, soft drinks and alcoholic drinks
  • Personal expenses such as laundry etc.
  • Any items not listed as included
Discover Dolpo to Mustang with Garry Weare | World Expeditions Webinar

Reviews (7)

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Good trip overall with excellent crew.

Jon|VIC, Australia
22 Oct 2025
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This was an amazing holiday, fantastic hiking outside the box, that's for sure. So many beautiful mountains and high passes. As a long time traveller with WE I found this one a great hiking trip as I didn't see any other hikers along the way or in our amazing remote camp spots. Such an amazing alternative to the main trails, if you're looking to be so remote you feel like a local. 10/10 for me

Samantha|VIC, Australia
21 Oct 2025
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Brilliant trek. Highly recommended. Vast, wild, rugged landscapes in a very remote area, dotted with stunningly beautiful traditional villages. Excellent support from our Sherpa team and team leader - highly professional, enthusiastic, and engaging. I’d jump at a chance to trek with Juddha as a team leader again in the future.

Sean|QLD, Australia
21 Oct 2025
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Jenny|QLD, Australia
21 Nov 2025
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Cynthia|ACT, Australia
29 Oct 2025
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Teresa|NSW, Australia
25 Oct 2025
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Aleksei Polezhaev|Abu Dhabi
28 May 2024

Responsible Travel

Regenerative Travel ProjectsPorter Welfare10 Pieces Initiative
Breathtaking views as we trek down towards Thame | Monika Molenda
Restoring Learning in Thame Project
 
Restoring access to digital education through the installation of a computer lab and smart classroom technology, helping rebuild learning opportunities for students affected by climate-related disasters.
 
In Nepal's Solukhumbu region, the remote mountain village of Thame is recovering from a devastating Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) that destroyed homes, infrastructure, and critical community services — including the local school and its computer lab. With students displaced and relocated to temporary learning facilities, access to quality education has been severely disrupted, particularly in digital learning.
 
The Rebuilding Digital Education in Thame project aims to address this gap by equipping the newly relocated Thame Basic School with a computer lab, smart boards, and essential digital infrastructure. This will enable students and teachers to access modern, technology-enabled education in one of the most remote regions in the world.
 
With support from the World Expeditions Foundation, this project will fund the installation of computers, smart boards, printers, and classroom infrastructure to support both students and teachers. The outcome? Improved digital literacy, more engaging and interactive teaching, and equitable access to education for a community rebuilding after disaster.
 
The project is led by Himalayan Trust Nepal, a long-standing organisation working closely with local communities, schools, and government partners to deliver sustainable education and development outcomes across the Khumbu region.
 
Support our work
Our Commitment to Porters in Nepal
 
Porters are central to every trek we run in Nepal, and we are committed to their safety, wellbeing, and fair treatment.
 
We ensure fair pay, enforce strict load limits (max 30kg), and provide proper clothing, equipment, meals, and safe accommodation.
 
Porters have equal access to medical care, insurance, and emergency support as our travellers.
 
You can trek knowing your journey supports responsible and ethical practices.
Help us keep the places that inspire us clean by taking part in our 10 Pieces litter initiative | Lachlan Gardiner
Cleaning Up Wilderness Trails
 
Our 10 Pieces initiative is a simple, voluntary way to give back while you trek.
 
Travellers are encouraged to collect 10 pieces of litter each day along the trail, helping protect these fragile environments.
 
You'll find more details in your client portal once you book, and your tour leader will introduce the initiative at your first group meeting in Kathmandu.

Extra trip info

Will My Trip Run?Why Book With Us

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

  • Enjoy freshly prepared meals each day, unlimited boiled water and warm hospitality even in the most remote camps, all carried and set up by our trusted team
  • Save money and hassle with our included Trek Pack, complete with quality down jacket, sleeping bag, insulated mat and more, plus receive a souvenir World Expeditions kit bag to take home
  • Pioneering Porter Policy: we supply our porters with food, accommodation and clothing on trek (including wind/waterproof jackets, boots and more) and the same medical care as our trekkers, plus other benefits including insurance and a good working wage
  • Feel secure with experienced wilderness guides, trained in first aid and equipped with expedition medical kit, satellite phone and portable high altitude chamber, plus a well-paced itinerary that supports comfortable acclimatisation at altitude

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