Upper Dolpo: An Untamed and Authentic Trek in the Nepalese Himalayas

Upper Dolpo is one of the most remote and expensive treks in the Nepalese Himalayas, as it lies deep in the borderlands of Tibet, where centuries-old traditions can still be experienced in the mountains. This trek can only be done expedition-style: accommodation is not available everywhere, and where it is, it is limited and offers very basic “service”—sleeping in simple shelters or herders’ camps. The trek lasts 24 days, crosses three passes above 5,000 metres, and you spend 10 days above the 4,000-metre mark. For two weeks, you’ll be out of contact with home and your loved ones.

Our choice was to travel with one guide, Tek, and a “porter guide,” Chandra. We not only welcomed them, but also treated them as members of the group. We chose to live in the same conditions as local people and carry most of our own belongings—tents and food. People often ask: “Okay, but why? Why put yourself through this when porters and donkeys could carry everything? Why go somewhere without phone service or hot water, when many treks offer greater comfort? What do you gain from it all?”

You’ll find out at an in-person gathering on 24.11, from 18:00 to 21:00, at Forum Cinemas Akropole Alfa (formerly Cinamon Alfa). We’ll tell you not only about Upper Dolpo, but also about other expedition-style treks in Nepal, and what you should and shouldn’t watch out for in this Himalayan country.

Sharing their stories and insights will be Ilze Garanča (owner of CAPS! Chocolate), Jānis Savickis (also known by the nickname “Viesturs”), and Valdis Vanags (head of Sense of Team Adventures). There will be contests, surprises, vivid photos, gripping stories, and reflections on why something like this is worth doing.

Tickets are available on Fienta.com. Proceeds will go towards saving Namgung Buddhist monastery and village from a landslide. The estimated cost of the planned stone retaining works and labour is around 7,000 euros. To receive, you must give—we thank you in advance for your donation through the purchase of a ticket. Ticket price: 22 euros.

P.S. Thanks to Forum Cinemas and Dinārs Ozols personally for their support, as well as to CAPS! Chocolate and Ilze Garanča. See you there!