Upper Dolpo is one of the most remote corners of the Nepal Himalaya, a rain-shadow region of high passes, ancient monasteries and traditional villages with deep Tibetan roots. This 25-day expedition by iFly Nepal crosses it on a full loop from Juphal, taking in turquoise Phoksundo Lake, the Kang La and Jeng La passes, Shey Gompa near Crystal Mountain, and the villages of Saldang and Dho Tarap.

This is a hard trek, with long days, two passes above 5,000 m (Kang La reaches about 5,360 m) and remote conditions. Previous high-altitude trekking experience is strongly recommended. The itinerary builds in time to acclimatise at Phoksundo Lake and slower recovery and cultural days in Saldang and Dho Tarap.

Everything on the trail is supported. The price includes flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Juphal, hotels in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj, camping or lodge nights with all meals, the Upper Dolpo restricted area permit and Shey Phoksundo National Park entry, a licensed English-speaking guide, a cook, camp crew, porters or pack animals, and all camping and kitchen equipment. A cultural day in Kathmandu ends the journey.

The best season is May to October, when the rain shadow keeps Dolpo relatively dry. Autumn gives the clearest skies.

What's included

Airport transfers in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj; Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj as per itinerary; Domestic flights Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Juphal and return; Camping or lodge accommodation during the trek; All meals during the trek; Upper Dolpo restricted area permit and Shey Phoksundo National Park entry; Licensed English-speaking trekking guide; Porters or pack animals, cook and camp crew; Camping and kitchen equipment; Kathmandu cultural exploration on day 24; Trip coordination and all applicable taxes

What's not included

International airfare to and from Nepal; Nepal visa fee; Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation; Emergency rescue and evacuation costs; Meals in Kathmandu except where listed; Personal trekking gear and equipment; Hot showers, battery charging and Wi-Fi at lodges where charged; Tips for guides, porters and crew; Personal expenses and drinks; Extra nights or costs caused by weather-related flight delays or cancellations