Upper Dolpo Valley Trek- 27 Days

TripAdvisor Reviews

The Upper Dolpo Trek takes you deep into one of Nepal’s most remote and untouched regions. Along the way, you’ll walk through wild landscapes, visit ancient monasteries, and experience the traditional mountain lifestyle that has remained unchanged for generations.

Country

Nepal

Trip Duration

25 Days

Trip Grade

Challenging

Highest Altitude

5,306 m / 17,408 ft

Best Season

Mar-May, Sep-Nov

Accommodation

Combination of hotels, teahouses, and tented camping

Meals

Included

Start/End Point

Kathmandu

Trip Highlights

  • Enjoy scenic mountain flights between Nepalgunj and Juphal
  • Discover the beauty of Shey Phoksundo National Park, rich in nature and culture
  • Cross dramatic high-altitude passes like Kang La, Saldang La, Jeng La, Numa La, and Baga La
  • Visit centuries-old monasteries, including the sacred Shey Gompa
  • Immerse yourself in the preserved Tibetan-influenced lifestyle of the locals
  • Take in the breathtaking sight of the deep-blue Phoksundo Lake
  • Walk through the remote and picturesque Nangkhong and Tarap Valleys
  • Sleep under starlit skies at high camps, far from the noise of modern life
  • Encounter unspoiled mountain landscapes, diverse plant and animal life, and timeless traditions

Trip Overview

The Upper Dolpo Trek takes you into one of Nepal’s most remote and less-traveled regions, often called the “land beyond the Himalayas.” It’s a special journey through wild landscapes, old monasteries, and traditional mountain villages. This place not only attracts the trekkers, it’s a living archive for many researchers and scholars for cultural and religious study. Dolpo is the rain shadow of the Himalayas traditionally locals used to rely on the trade with Tibetans for their livelihood.

The people themselves are the descendants of those who migrated from Tibet. The trek follows the isolated remote villages that bear evidence of the ancient trade route.This trekking is one of the most challenging and longer trekking in Nepal with various camps situated over 4500m along with many more high passes. Upper Dolpo region is completely far from its civilization; only listed travelers explore this remote area of Nepal.

The people in Dolpo Valley practice Tibetan Buddhism and some of them follow pre-Buddhist shamanistic and Bon religion. Tibetan culture is relatively more preserved in these areas making this region a more attractive travel destination.

The trek begins with a scenic flight to Juphal and then continues into Shey Phoksundo National Park, where the striking blue waters of Phoksundo Lake leave a lasting impression. The trail leads across high mountain passes like Kang La, Saldang La, and Jeng La, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and barren highlands.

This region holds strong ties to Tibetan Buddhist culture. You’ll visit monasteries such as Shey Gompa and meet people who still live by old traditions in villages above 4,300 meters.

Because of its isolation, Upper Dolpo has kept much of its original charm. You might see yak caravans on the trail and, with luck, spot wildlife like blue sheep or even a snow leopard.

The Upper Dolpo Trek is challenging but rewarding both physically and spiritually. It’s a real adventure through dramatic landscapes and into the heart of an ancient Himalayan culture.

Nepal’s first subtitled movie on Dolpo called “Snow Leopard” and “Caravan” was successful and nominated for the Oscar Award in the best foreign-language category.

Outline Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1300 m/4264 ft)

Upon arrival at the airport, we will be welcomed by a representative of Ama Adventure. Check into a hotel and then explore the surrounding area.

Max Altitude :

Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,264 ft)

Meals :

Breakfast

Overnight :

Kathmandu

Accomodation :

Hotel

Day 2: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing

Max Altitude :

Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,264 ft)

Meals :

Breakfast

Overnight :

Kathmandu

Accomodation :

Hotel

Day 3: Fly to Nepalgunj

Trip Duration :

1 hr

Meals :

Breakfast

Overnight :

Nepalgunj

Accomodation :

Hotel

Day 4: Fly to Jhupal (Dolpo) and trek to Dunai (2850 m/9,3448ft): 45m flight and 2-3 hrs trek

Max Altitude :

Dunai (2850 m/9,3448 ft)

Trip Duration :

45 m flight and 2-3 hrs trek

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Dunai

Accomodation :

Hotel

Day 5: Trek to Ankhe (2,896 m/9,499 ft): 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude :

Ankhe (2,896 m/9,499 ft)

Trip Duration :

5-6 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Ankhe

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 6: Ankhe to Sulighat: 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude :

Sulighat

Trip Duration :

5-6 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Sulighat

Day 7: Sulighat to Phoksundo Lake (3,611 m/11,849 ft): 4-5 hrs

Max Altitude :

Phoksundo Lake (3,611 m/11,849 ft)

Trip Duration :

4-5 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Phoksundo Lake

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 8: Acclimatization, rest, and Phoksundo Lake

Max Altitude :

Phoksundo Lake (3,611 m/11,849 ft)

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Phoksundo Lake

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 9: Trek to Phoksundo Khola: 4-5 hrs

Trip Duration :

4-5 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Phoksundo Khola

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 10: Phoksundo Khola to Phoksundo Bhanjang: 6-7 hrs

Trip Duration :

6-7 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Phoksundo Bhanjang

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 11: Phokosundo Bhanjang to Shey Gompa (4500 m/14,760 ft) through Kangla passes (5,360 m/17,581 ft): 5–6 hrs

Max Altitude :

Kangla Pass (5,360 m/17,581 ft)

Trip Duration :

5-6 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Kangla Pass

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 12: Acclimatization and Rest day at Shey Gompa

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Shey Gompa

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 13: Shey Gompa to Namduna Gaun (4800 m/15,744 ft) via Saldang La (5,200 m/17,056 ft): 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude :

Saldang La (5,200 m/17,056 ft)

Trip Duration :

5-6 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Namduna Gaun

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 14: Namaduna Gaun to Saldang (3,620 m/11,874 ft) : 4-5 hrs

Max Altitude :

Saldang (3,620 m/11,874 ft)

Trip Duration :

4-5 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Saldang

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 15: Saldang to Yangze Gompa (4,960 m/16,267 ft) : 4-5 hrs

Max Altitude :

Yangze Gompa (4,960 m/16,267 ft)

Trip Duration :

4-5 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Yangze Gompa

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 16: Yangze Gompa to Sibu (4,560 m/14,957 ft) : 6-7 hrs

Max Altitude :

Sibu (4,560 m/14,957 ft)

Trip Duration :

6-7 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Sibu

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 17: Sibu to Jeng via La Phedi (4,900 m/16,760 ft) : 6-7 hrs

Max Altitude :

La Phedi (4,900 m/16,760 ft)

Trip Duration :

6-7 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Jeng

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 18: Jeng la Phedi to Tokyo Gaun (4,200 m/13,809 ft) through Jeng la pass (5,090 m/16,695 ft): 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude :

Jeng la pass (5,090 m/16,695 ft)

Trip Duration :

5-6 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Jeng la pass

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 19: Tokyo to Dho Tarap (4,040 m/13,251 ft): 4-5 hrs

Max Altitude :

Dho Tarap

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Dho Tarap

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 20: Dho Tarap to Tarap Khola /Kamakharka (3,800 m/12,467 ft): 6-7 hrs

Max Altitude :

Kamakharka (3,800 m/12,467 ft)

Trip Duration :

6-7 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Kamakharka

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 21: Tarap Khola /Kamakharka to Khanigaun (3,150 m/10,332 ft): 4-5 hrs

Max Altitude :

Khanigaun (3,150 m/10,332 ft)

Trip Duration :

4-5 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Khanigaun

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 22: Khanigaun to Tarakot (2,537 m/8,321 ft): 4-5 hrs

Max Altitude :

Tarakot (2,537 m/8,321 ft)

Trip Duration :

4-5 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Tarakot

Accomodation :

Tea house

Day 23: Tarakot to Dunai (2,537 m/8,321 ft) 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude :

Dunai (2,537 m/8,321 ft

Trip Duration :

5-6 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight :

Dunai

Accomodation :

Teahouse

Day 24: Dunai to Jhapal: 2-3 hrs

Trip Duration :

2-3 hrs

Meals :

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accomodation :

Hotel

Day 25: Fly Nepalgunj and Fly to Kathmandu

Max Altitude :

Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,264 ft)

Meals :

Breakfast

Overnight :

Kathmandu

Accomodation :

Hotel

Day 26: Rest Day in Kathmandu

Max Altitude :

Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,264 ft)

Meals :

Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

Overnight :

Kathmandu

Accomodation :

Hotel

Day 27: Final Departure

What is included

Accommodation

  • 2 nights in a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu on a twin/double-sharing basis with breakfast
  • 2 nights in a 4-star hotel in Nepalgunj on a twin/double-sharing basis with breakfast
  • Tented camp accommodation with full camping equipment for 17 nights during the trek. Provided equipment includes two-person tents, dining tents, kitchen equipment, dining table and chairs, toilet tents, and shower tents.
  • Twin-sharing/double occupancy in teahouses for 3 nights. (Meals will still be provided at the campsite. In case teahouses are fully booked, accommodation will be arranged in tented camps)

Meals & Drinking Water

  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
  • One hot drink per meal and seasonal fruits
  • Welcome dinner in Kathmandu
  • Farewell dinner on the final night in Nepal
  • Purified drinking water throughout the trek (via water filter or purification tablets)

Transportation

  • All airport transfers (international & domestic) by tourist vehicle
  • Flight fare from Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Juphal – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu including airport departure taxes

Guide & Support Staff

  • Licensed, experienced, English-speaking trekking guide (2 guides for groups of 8 or more)
  • Porter support (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
  • All staff’s wages, accommodation, meals, insurance, gear, and medication

Permits & Entry Fees

  • Special Trekking Permit US$ 70 per person per day and all local conservation fees

Health & Safety

  • Comprehensive first aid kit
  • Daily health checks with a pulse oximeter to monitor altitude-related symptoms

Extras & Souvenirs

  • Trekking map, duffel kit bag, sun hat, Buff (neck gaiter), and a trip completion certificate

Administrative

  • All government taxes and administrative fees

What is Excluded

  • Meals in Kathmandu – Lunch and dinner while in Kathmandu
  • International airfare and airport departure tax
  • Travel insurance – Must include high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
  • Alcoholic beverages, cold drinks, and bottled juices
  • Tips – For trekking staff and drivers (at your discretion)
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment
  • Single room supplement – Available on request at an extra cost
  • Any expenses not mentioned in the Price Includes section
  • Nepal Entry Visa – Payable on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport:
      • USD 30 for 15 days
      • USD 50 for 30 days
      • USD 125 for 90 days

Trip Departure

We offer both solo and group bookings to make your holiday a lifetime memory with people from all over the world. Once your trip is confirmed, we guarantee all group departure dates, even if only one person has signed up for the trek. Please note that before departure, we always confirm the current number of members in your group before final registration.

Difficulty Level

This trek is 5-6 hours a day. Some days we may have to walk for 9- 10 hours. Walking at a higher altitude is physically more demanding than walking at a lower altitude; However, if you are in good shape and of
average physical shape, with a positive attitude towards life and firm determination, you can complete the trek successfully.

Regular exercise and jogging is a good way to increase strength and stability. For the trek, you need to pack essential personal items, which can vary based on your preferences. Preparing for the cold weather in the Himalayas is crucial, so bring sufficient warm clothing.

During a supported trek, porters will carry heavy items, while you are responsible for carrying daily necessities like water bottles, rain gear, a camera, sun cream, and toilet paper.

Dates & Prices

All our published departure dates are guaranteed. If none of the available dates suit you, we can customize the trek to match your timing. Just let us know your travel window and group details, and we’ll help you organize a private or custom Upper Dolpo Trek that fits your needs.

Meals

Throughout our trek, you’ll savor authentic Nepalese dishes alongside international cuisines such as Tibetan, Continental, Italian, and Indian. Breakfast and dinner will be served at the tea houses or lodge menus where we stay overnight, while lunches will be provided en-route to our next destination. During the trek, all meals are included. In Kathmandu, breakfast is provided, and special welcome and farewell dinners will be arranged for our guests.

Accomodation

We’ll be accommodated at Standard Hotel in Kathmandu, and the best available teahouses during our trek. Accommodations are based on twin sharing. For those requesting a single room, there will be an additional cost of USD 150. While we aim for rooms with attached washrooms, please note that some tea houses may only have shared washing and toilet facilities. Single rooms are readily available in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and lower-elevation trekking areas, but availability might be limited at higher elevations.

Weather Information

The best seasons to trek in Upper Dolpo are from March to May and September to November. These months typically offer clear skies, stable weather, and excellent mountain views. During the trek, daytime temperatures at lower altitudes usually range between 10°C to 20°C, making it comfortable for walking. However, as you ascend to higher elevations and cross high passes like Numa La and Baga La, nighttime temperatures can drop to -6°C or even lower. Snowfall is possible at higher altitudes, particularly in late autumn and early spring. Since the Dolpo region is remote and weather patterns can change unexpectedly, it’s important to come well-prepared with appropriate clothing and gear.

Packing List

Here’s a suggested packing list to help you get ready for the Upper Dolpo Valley Trek- 27 Days. Please take this as a starting point. You’ll need layers of warmer clothing during the winter.

We provide a 75-liter duffel bag for you to use for the trek. It will be given to you during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffle bag is yours to keep.

 General

  • Four-season sleeping bag (rated to 0°C or lower) (Rental available: USD 35)
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Insulated down jacket (Rental available: USD 35)
  • Daypack (35-45 liters recommended) with rain cover

Upper Body

  • Sun hat or cap (Complimentary Ama Adventure cap included)
  • Warm knitted hat or beanie
  • Scarf or neck gaiter (Buff recommended)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • UV-protection sunglasses

Torso

  • Moisture-wicking base layers – lightweight for warmer seasons, thermal for colder months
  • Two short-sleeve and two long-sleeve trekking shirts made of quick-dry technical fabric
  • Windproof and waterproof outer shell or jacket
  • Warm fleece jacket or pullover for added insulation

Lower Body

  • Thermal base layers – lightweight for warm months, heavier for cold conditions
  • Two pairs of durable hiking pants
  • Comfortable pants for relaxing inside teahouses
  • Waterproof and windproof shell pants for protection against rain and wind
  • One pair of hiking shorts (ideal for lower altitudes and warm days)

Hands

  • Liner gloves made of wool or technical fabric for warmth and flexibility
  • Insulated outer gloves with a hard shell – ideal for wind and cold at higher altitudes

Feet

  • Warm socks made of wool or technical fabric
  • Hiking socks (several pairs recommended)
  • Optional liner socks (e.g., silk) for added comfort and blister prevention
  • Waterproof trekking/hiking boots – well broken-in before the trek
  • Ice Cleats or Micro Spikes (recommended from November to March for icy trails)
  • Comfortable casual shoes or sandals for teahouse use
  • Gaiters – lightweight for dust or heavier ones for snow in cold months

Undergarments

Note: Laundry opportunities are limited, so pack accordingly.

  • Quick-drying, moisture-wicking underwear (technical fabric recommended) – adjust quantity based on personal preference
  • Sports bras (for women) – supportive and breathable
  • Pajamas or comfortable sleepwear for chilly nights in the mountains

First Aid Kits and Medications

  • Sunscreen (high SPF)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Antiseptic or soothing ointment
  • Personal medications (for altitude, allergies, pain relief, etc.)

(Note: Our guides carry a basic first aid kit, but personal supplies are strongly recommended)

Other Essential Items

  • Power bank or spare batteries
  • Wet Wipes
  • Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
  • Water purification tablets or UV water purifier
  • Headlamp
  • Lightweight towel
  • Basic Medicine (Pepto, Bismol, Advil, Imodium)
  • Bandana for dust and wind
  • Toiletry kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, wipes, etc.)
  • Toilet paper (2 rolls minimum)
  • Personal Medicine and Toiletries
  • High-protein snacks (nuts, energy/protein bars)
  • Waterproof/dry bags to protect documents and valuables
  • Ziplock Bag for Toilet papers and other necessary items

Optional

(These can enhance your comfort during the trek and are widely available in Thamel, Kathmandu)

  • Power bank or spare batteries
  • Camera and mobile phone (for capturing memories)
  • Cards, books, or lightweight entertainment
  • Pee bottle or pee funnel (especially useful for women at high altitudes)
  • Trekking poles (highly recommended for stability)
  • Whistle (for safety/emergency use)
  • Thermos (to carry hot water/tea during cold days)

Tip: Thamel is full of gear shops where you can purchase or rent trekking essentials at a reasonable price once you’re in Kathmandu.

Documents and Logistics

  • Flight Information
  • Photocopy of Passport
  • Passport size photo for Tims and permit(4)
  • Medical Insurance Card
  • Airline tickets (leave a copy with our office in Kathmandu)

Dates of Trip

PRICE
DEPARTURE DATE
TRIP STATUS

Trip Downloads

Group Discount Prices

No. of Persons
Price per Person

Frequently Asked Questions

Why trek with Ama Adventure?
Ama Adventure is known for organizing treks with experienced, caring guides and a dedicated team that looks after every detail of your journey. We are a certified sustainable travel company that believes in giving back, actively supporting community-focused initiatives. Here are reasons why Ama Adventure could be the perfect choice for your next adventure!
Is Nepal open to travelers following the Covid - 19 pandemic?
Yes, Nepal is fully open to visitors. Travelers are warmly welcomed without any restrictions, and you can easily get a visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport.
What are the conditions to travel to Nepali post covid- 19?
Traveling to Nepal is now simple and straightforward. There's no need to show a vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test. However, it's a good idea to check with your airline and any transit countries for their specific rules. For the latest updates, you can visit the official Nepal immigration website: ttps://www.immigration.gov.np.
What additional documents do I need?
(1) Two passport-sized photos (2×2 inch) to give to our office staff (2) A copy of your international flight ticket to give to our office staff (3) A copy of travel insurance to give to our office staff
What should I know about booking my flights to/from Nepal? Do I need to plan extra days in case of delays?
It’s wise to plan an extra day or two before and after your trek dates to allow for any unexpected flight delays or cancellations. This also gives you time to prepare, shop for any last-minute gear, or simply settle in before your journey begins. Please note that Ama Adventure cannot be held responsible for any disruptions or missed international flights due to unforeseen situations such as flight delays, cancellations, or airport changes.
Is hiring a guide necessary even if I have trekking experience?
You can trek without a guide, but having one can make your journey much smoother, especially when challenges or unexpected situations arise. Our guides are trained professionals who help with planning, navigation, and decision-making on the trail. Many travelers say their guide played a key role in making the experience enjoyable and successful.
Can the guide speak English?
Yes, our guides do speak English. Most begin their journey as porters and spend several years gaining experience before becoming trekking guides. Their English comes from hands-on interaction rather than classroom learning. While they may not speak like native speakers, they communicate well and are always ready to help, especially in areas where locals like teahouse owners or shopkeepers may not speak English at all.
What is the best season for this trek?
The ideal times for this trek are during autumn (mid-September to November) and spring (March to early June), when the weather is generally clear and pleasant. While the trek can be done throughout the year, we usually recommend avoiding the monsoon months of July and August due to heavy rainfall. January and February can be quite cold in the higher elevations, but if you're properly equipped for winter conditions, these quieter months can offer a more peaceful experience. We're happy to arrange the trek according to what works best for your schedule.
What kind of weather and temperature can I expect while trekking?
Weather in this region can be quite unpredictable due to its localized nature. You might encounter sun, rain, fog, or cold all in one trek. It's important to be ready for a range of conditions. In the Everest region especially, daytime and nighttime temperatures vary greatly. Within a day, it can swing from a warm 25°C (77°F) to a chilly –20°C (–4°F). Although day-to-day weather changes are hard to predict, you can usually rely on seasonal patterns. Spring - March to June Spring is one of the best and busiest times to trek. The skies are usually clear, the views are incredible, and the trails are lined with blooming trees and flowers. Temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F) on sunny days, with nighttime temperatures dropping to around –15°C (5°F) at higher altitudes. Monsoon - July to mid-September This season brings heavy rain below 3500 meters, making trekking more difficult. Though it’s sometimes drier above 4000 meters, rain is still common. Fewer people trek during this time, but it’s a great season for waterfalls and quieter trails. Temperatures range from a high of 30°C (86°F) on clear days to a low of –5°C (23°F) at night above 4000 meters. Autumn - Late September to November Autumn rivals spring as one of the best times to visit. Though the flowers aren’t in bloom, the skies are generally clear and the views are stunning. Daytime highs reach about 20°C (68°F), while nights above 4000 meters can drop to –15°C (5°F). Winter - December to February Winter brings fewer crowds and crisp views, but it can be cloudy and cold. Adding a few buffer days is recommended. Daytime temperatures can reach 17°C (62.6°F), and nights can fall as low as –20°C (–4°F) above 4000 meters. Teahouses usually offer extra blankets to help keep warm at night.
What is the temperature rating of the sleeping bag that you lend to trekkers?
The temperature rating of the sleeping bags that we rent to trekkers is about -10°C (14°F). Also, our guides can obtain extra blankets if needed at the teahouses.
Is it possible to obtain a visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport?
Yes, you can get a tourist visa on arrival at the airport in Nepal. There are electronic kiosks in the arrival area where you can fill out the necessary forms. The visa fees are USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days, all of which allow multiple entries. It's best to carry US dollars in cash, as digital payment options are often unavailable. To make things easier, it's a good idea to fill out the online visa form before you travel. Submitting the form about two weeks before your arrival can help speed up the process at the airport. For step-by-step instructions, you can check out our blog: Guidelines for Online Tourist Visa Form in Nepal.
Who will come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival?
Our team will be ready to welcome you just outside the airport terminal, holding a signboard with Ama Adventure on it. From there, you’ll be escorted to your hotel in a comfortable private tourist vehicle.
How much additional money do I need per day?
As the Upper Dolpo trek is a fully organized journey with tented camps along the way, you won’t need to spend much on daily expenses during the trek itself. However, for your time in Kathmandu, Nepalgunj, or if you’re staying beyond the planned itinerary, budgeting around USD 15 to 20 per person per day should be enough for meals, tea or coffee, and other personal items. If you’re thinking of buying souvenirs or local products, it's a good idea to carry a bit of extra cash. Otherwise, most of your essentials during the trek are already covered!
Is it possible to use credit cards in the places I visit during the trek?
Yes, in Kathmandu you can use cards at many places. But once you leave the city, you’ll need to rely on cash. It’s important to exchange your money into local Nepali Rupees before heading into the mountains, as card facilities and ATMs are rarely available in remote areas.
Is it possible to reserve a trip now and pay a deposit later, or do I have to pay a deposit at booking/ reservation?
To confirm your booking, a 30% deposit is required. The remaining amount can be paid either before you arrive or once you're in Kathmandu. We accept US dollars in cash as well as major credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Please be aware that there is a 4% transaction fee for credit card payments.
How do I pay the remainder of my balance upon arrival in Kathmandu? Us Dollar cash or credit card?
You can pay in US dollars cash or by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, or American Express). If you choose to pay by card, a 4% transaction fee will be added. To avoid this, we recommend bringing USD cash if you plan to settle the balance upon arrival in Kathmandu. It’s best to bring larger bills $50 or $100 notes that are in good condition and issued after 2009. Banks in Nepal may refuse damaged, torn, or older bills.
How are the ATM and money exchange facilities in Kathmandu?
In Thamel, where you’ll be staying in Kathmandu, ATMs and money exchange centers are easy to find practically on every corner. You can use your cards to withdraw limited amounts of cash, though there will be a small fee charged by the ATM. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at local currency exchange counters, usually at fair and accurate rates.
Do I need prior trekking experience?
You don’t need prior trekking experience as long as you’re in good physical health and have the enthusiasm to take on the journey.
Are there any age requirements for mountain trekking?
There are no age limits for our treks as long as participants are healthy and motivated. We’ve guided families with children as young as 5 years old, and our oldest trekkers have been in their late 70s.
Is trekking to mountain regions safe for solo female travelers?
Trekking alone as a woman in Nepal is generally safe. Nepal is known to be a secure destination for solo female travelers. With Ama Adventure, it is completely safe for a woman to trek alone on any of our routes.
How challenging is the trek?
This trek is challenging and takes place in a very remote area. You’ll need strong endurance for the long days, especially when crossing high mountain passes. If you have any existing medical conditions, it’s important to consult a doctor before attempting this trek. It’s also normal to feel some discomfort until your body adjusts to the altitude during the journey.
What kind of physical training is necessary for the trek preparation?
To get ready for trekking, it’s important to train your body for walking on uneven and hilly terrain while carrying a backpack. Activities like uphill walking, jogging, cycling, and long hikes are excellent preparation. Aim to exercise for about an hour, four to five times a week, for at least two months before your trek.
What are the physical standards that I need for the trek?
This trek is suitable for those in good physical shape. If you’re not very active, we recommend beginning an exercise routine at least two months before your trek. This should include walking uphill, running, or cycling for about an hour, four to five times a week. Including hikes in your training is especially helpful. If you have any health concerns, it’s best to consult your doctor before planning your trip.

Traveler Reviews

Tripadvisor Reviews

  • star rating  Best choice for trekking in Nepal  - We were so lucky to come across Ama Adventure in a Facebook group, and specifically Goma Thapa, who's an experienced, educated, trekking powerhouse woman in charge of Ama trekking expeditions.... read more

    avatar thumb Zofia F
    December 30, 2023

    star rating  Travelling to Nepal 🇳🇵  - Best of the best company ever! I have a wonderful experiences trekking to Everest Basecamp, Chola pass and Gokyo Lake with Goma.

    avatar thumb Flyer19890147734
    October 22, 2023

    star rating  Extremely happy with ama  - Ama booked me with an extordinary well connected and knowledgeable guide for ABC and ebc. Best teahouses, best food, most professional guide and porter. Fluent English speaker and the guide... read more

    avatar thumb Montanapants
    August 13, 2023
  • star rating  Great Lakes Trail, Gorkha, Nepal - This is my first solo trekking which I chose a 7 days trip that included day tour and Great Lakes Tail. I am so greatful because I met an authentic... read more

    avatar thumb Namaste S
    February 11, 2025

    star rating  MY EXPERIENCE WAS A SUCCESS, TWO TIMES :)  - It took me a long time to give birth to my experience with Ama Adventure through a review ! Actually, it's been such a SUCCESS, I had the idea that... read more

    avatar thumb Maya A
    January 23, 2025

    star rating  Highly recommend Goma and AMA Adventure  - Highly recommend Goma from AMA Adventure. Amazing trekking guide, took us to EBC + Chola Pass + Gokyo Lakes. Honest, punctual, lovely company to have. Have trekked with... read more

    avatar thumb Cruiser613242
    November 25, 2024

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