The Sisne Upper Trek, offered by Hairy Yak Adventures, is an 18-day adventure through the remote and culturally rich Rukum district in Western Nepal. Priced at $1,399 per person, this trek explores the lesser-known trails of the Dhaulagiri massif, showcasing the stunning Sisne Himal (5,911 m) and panoramic views of West Dhaulagiri, Kanjirowa, and other peaks. Unlike Nepal’s more popular routes like Everest or Annapurna, the Sisne Upper Trek offers an off-the-beaten-path experience, immersing trekkers in the authentic Magar and Chhetri communities, historic sites tied to Nepal’s civil war (1996–2006), and pristine natural landscapes.
This trek is a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and history. Starting from Kathmandu, the journey involves a flight to Nepalgunj and a scenic drive to the trailhead at Khaula or Khalanga. The route winds through traditional villages like Rukumkot, known for its 52 ponds and 53 lakes, and attractions like Gupta Daha, where the reflection of Sisne Himal creates a heavenly vista, and Shyarpu Lake, famous for its fish varieties. Trekkers will encounter remnants of the Maoist civil war, including tunnel trenches, adding a historical dimension to the journey. The trail also features biodiversity hotspots like the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, opportunities for wild honey hunting, and Yarsagumba harvesting zones. With a maximum altitude of approximately 4,500 m at viewpoints like Jange Thala, this moderate-to-challenging trek requires decent fitness but no technical climbing skills.
The Sisne Upper Trek is ideal for adventurers seeking solitude and cultural depth. The region’s isolation, combined with its rich Magar heritage and stunning Himalayan vistas, makes it a unique alternative to mainstream treks. Accommodations include a mix of teahouses, homestays, and tented camps, offering an authentic taste of local life. The best seasons for this trek are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when clear skies enhance mountain views and moderate temperatures (5–20°C) ensure comfortable trekking conditions.
Sisne Himal: Marvel at the majestic Sisne Himal (5,911m), a lesser-known peak in the remote Rukum and Dolpa regions, offering a pristine Himalayan experience.
Remote Wilderness: Trek through untouched landscapes in Nepal’s mid-western region, far from crowded trails, with serene forests and alpine meadows.
Khamarda Lake: Visit the sacred Khamarda Lake, a tranquil high-altitude lake surrounded by rugged peaks, revered by local communities.
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve: Explore Nepal’s only hunting reserve, home to diverse wildlife like blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, and rich biodiversity.
Cultural Immersion: Engage with the unique Magar and Tibetan-influenced communities, experiencing their traditions, festivals, and warm hospitality.
Jaljala Pass: Cross the scenic Jaljala Pass (3,414m), offering panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri and Sisne ranges.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure: Enjoy solitude and raw nature on this less-trodden route, perfect for adventurers seeking an authentic trekking experience.
Traditional Villages: Pass through remote villages like Pelma and Yamakhar, witnessing traditional lifestyles and ancient Buddhist stupas.
The Sisne Upper Trek starts at $1,399 per person for an 18-day package, offering excellent value for a remote Himalayan adventure. The cost typically includes:
Permits: Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card ($10 for group trekkers, $20 for solo) and Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve permit (approx. $30 for foreigners).
Transportation: Round-trip flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj ($150–$200 per person) and private vehicle/bus from Nepalgunj to Khaula/Khalanga ($20–$50 one way, depending on group size).
Accommodation: 3 nights in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu (twin-sharing, with breakfast), teahouses, homestays, or tented camps during the trek.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking days, featuring local dishes like Dal Bhat ($5–$8 per meal at higher altitudes).
Guide and Porter: A licensed English-speaking guide ($25–$40/day) and porter ($15–$20/day) to assist with navigation and luggage (up to 15 kg per person).
Camping Gear: High-quality tents, kitchen equipment, and dining utensils for tented camp sections.
Additional costs to consider include personal expenses (snacks, hot showers, device charging: $20–$40/day), travel insurance (covering up to 5,000 m altitude), and tips for guides and porters (10–15% of trek cost recommended). Budget-conscious trekkers can reduce costs by sharing transport or opting for public buses, while luxury options with private vehicles and enhanced services may increase costs to $1,800.
The Sisne Upper Trek offers breathtaking Himalayan vistas. From Jaljala Pass (3,414m), trekkers are treated to sweeping views of Sisne Himal (5,911m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), and the rolling hills of the Dhorpatan region. The trail showcases lush green valleys, dense rhododendron forests, and stark alpine plateaus. Khamarda Lake reflects surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a serene visual spectacle. On clear days, the distant Annapurna range may be visible, complementing the rugged, untouched beauty of the mid-western Himalayas, with vibrant sunrises and star-filled night skies.
This trek is suited for moderately experienced trekkers looking for a remote and less commercialized Himalayan adventure. With altitudes up to 3,414m at Jaljala Pass and daily treks of 5–7 hours, it requires good physical fitness and stamina. The trail involves moderate ascents and descents over varied terrain, but no technical climbing skills are needed. Basic teahouse or camping accommodations and limited facilities demand adaptability. This trek is ideal for those who crave solitude, cultural exploration, and immersion in pristine nature, with the endurance to handle off-grid conditions.
Train for 2–3 months with cardio exercises (hiking, jogging) and strength training (core, legs) to prepare for moderate altitudes and long trekking days. Practice hiking with a loaded backpack to build endurance.
Wear sturdy, broken-in trekking boots with ankle support. Pack layered clothing (moisture-wicking base layers, fleece, waterproof jacket) for unpredictable weather, from warm valleys to chilly high altitudes.
Keep your backpack under 10 kg, carrying only essentials like clothing, toiletries, and a sleeping bag. Porters may be available, but a light load eases strain on rugged trails.
Drink 2–3 liters of water daily to stay hydrated. Monitor for mild altitude sickness symptoms (headaches, fatigue) at higher elevations. Carry Diamox as a precaution and descend if symptoms persist.
Incorporate rest days in villages like Pelma or Dhorpatan to adjust to altitudes above 3,000m. Avoid rapid ascents and listen to your body to minimize altitude-related risks.
Carry sufficient Nepalese rupees from Kathmandu or Beni, as ATMs are unavailable in remote Rukum and Dolpa. Connectivity is limited; a local SIM may work sporadically, but a satellite phone is ideal for emergencies.
Bring a power bank or solar charger, as electricity is scarce in remote villages and teahouses may charge for device charging.
Pack toilet paper, hand sanitizer, soap, and wet wipes, as facilities in basic teahouses or campsites are minimal.
Seek permission before photographing locals or religious sites. Dress modestly, especially near Buddhist stupas or Khamarda Lake, and respect Magar and Tibetan customs to honor local traditions.
Obtain the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve Permit and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card, typically arranged by your trekking agency. Additional permits may be required for restricted areas in Dolpa.
The Sisne Upper Trek starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Beni, followed by a jeep ride or trek to trailheads like Burtibang or Dhorpatan. The route weaves through the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, passing Pelma, Yamakhar, and Khamarda Lake, before crossing Jaljala Pass. The trek, lasting 10–14 days, concludes with a return to Beni or a jeep ride to Pokhara. Weather can affect trails, especially during monsoon season (June–August), so plan for buffer days. This trek blends remote wilderness, cultural richness, and moderate high-altitude challenges, requiring thorough preparation.
Contact: Hairy Yak Adventures
Phone: +977-9801214198
Email: info@hairyyakadventures.com
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), offering clear skies, moderate temperatures (5–20°C), and optimal mountain views. Avoid the monsoon (June–August) due to slippery trails and winter (December–February) due to cold temperatures.
The trek is moderate to challenging, requiring decent fitness due to long walking days (5–7 hours) and altitudes up to 4,500 m. Beginners with prior cardio training (e.g., hiking, jogging) can manage with a guide’s support.
You need a TIMS card ($10 for group trekkers, $20 for solo) and a Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve permit (approx. $30 for foreigners). These can be arranged in Kathmandu through Hairy Yak Adventures.
Accommodation includes teahouses and homestays in villages like Rukumkot and Maikot, and tented camps in remote areas like Jange Thala. Expect basic facilities with shared bathrooms; hot showers and charging cost $2–$5 extra.
Altitude sickness is unlikely as overnight stays are below 4,500 m. The acclimatization day at Jange Thala helps adjust to higher altitudes. Stay hydrated and inform your guide of any symptoms like headaches or nausea.