Question 1

How difficult is the Dolpo Photography Expedition and what fitness do I need?

Accepted Answer

This trek is rated Hard and requires excellent fitness and previous high-altitude experience, 6-8+ hours daily. The maximum altitude is 5360m. You need a fitness level of Moderate to High – cardio training 3-4 times weekly for 8-12 weeks before departure, hill walking with a day pack, and core strength exercises. Consult your doctor before booking if you have medical conditions. Read more: Info Prepare Before Lower Dolpo Trek Quote.

Question 2

What permits and documents do I need?

Accepted Answer

Required permits: Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit (USD 500 for 10 days), Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit (NPR 3,390), TIMS Card. We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos. You also need a Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days, obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport) and travel insurance covering trekking to 5360m and helicopter evacuation. Bring your original passport, visa, insurance certificate, and photos to Nepal. Related permit guides: Upper Dolpo Itineraries Shey Gompa Time Guide.

Question 3

When is the best time to do the Dolpo Photography Expedition?

Accepted Answer

Spring (March to May), Summer (June to September – rain shadow region), and Autumn (October to November) all offer good trekking. Summer monsoon months are ideal as these regions lie in the Himalayan rain shadow. Winter (December to February) is extremely cold with snow-blocked passes.

Question 4

Is altitude sickness a risk and how do I prevent it?

Accepted Answer

Above 3,500m, altitude sickness (AMS) affects 25-40% of trekkers. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen, and they are trained to identify early symptoms. Prevention: ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m sleeping altitude per day above 3,500m), drink 3-4 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol above 3,500m, eat light meals, and report any symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation (USD 10,000) is mandatory. Read our altitude safety guides: Lower Dolpo Trek Main Safety Risks, Upper Dolpo Itinerary Acclimatization High Passes.

Question 5

What accommodation and meals are included?

Accepted Answer

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House, Camping. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) are included during the trek with tea and coffee. Menu includes dal bhat, momos, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian options are widely available.

Question 6

What should I pack and what equipment do you provide?

Accepted Answer

Essential gear: 4-season sleeping bag (-15C to -20C), down jacket, broken-in trekking boots, merino base layers (2 sets), mid-layer fleece, hard shell jacket, trekking pants (2), warm hat, gloves, 4-5 pairs wool socks, headlamp, 2L water bottle, sunscreen SPF 50. We provide free rental: sleeping bag (USD 30 deposit), down jacket (USD 20 deposit), duffel bag, trekking poles, first-aid kit, and emergency oxygen. See the Things to Carry tab above for the complete list. Packing guides: Lower Dolpo Trek Camping Gear.

Dolpo Photography Expedition – 18 Days