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Upper Dolpo Trek

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Upper Dolpo Trek 18 Days, Strenuous

Upper Dolpo Trek is an off-beat trek in the far northwest region of Nepal which is a unique experience for travelers seeking challenges and newness. Occupying a large area in the northwest of Nepal; Dolpo (also called Dolpa) is an arid, desert-like high mountain region lying in the Himalayan rain shadow. The region falls between the Great Himalayan Mountain range running along the southern edges of this region and the lesser Himalayan range bordering Tibet.


Trip Facts

Physical Grading: Strenuous

A strenuous trek that demands trekkers/travelers to have a top-notch level of physical and mental fitness to trek daily for long hours at high altitudes.

Max Elevation: 5,375m (Kang La Pass)

Cherish the stunning views of snowy mountains and beautiful valleys from the top of the pass.

Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge/Tent

Basic but comfortable accommodation with limited facilities and tented camping during the trek and a standard hotel in a city.

Meals: Full Board

3-course Healthy and Hygienic meals during the trek, and only breakfast in a city.

Best Season: Autumn & Spring

Clear views and comfortable trekking trails due to stable weather and temperature.

Trip Route:

Juphal – Chhepka – Amchi Hospital – Ringmo Gaun – Chunemba – Snowfield Camp – Kang La Pass – Shey Gompa – Shey La- Namgung – Saldang – Sibu – Jeng La Phedi – Jeng La Pass – Tokyu – Dho Tarap – Sisaul – Laina Odar – Lingdo - Juphal


Trip Highlights

  • Less-explored and off-beat trek
  • Mesmerizing Shey Phoksundo Lake
  • Diverse wildlife and natural attractions
  • Highest Kang La Pass (5,375 m)
  • Tented Camping
  • Traverse through beautiful villages (Chumling, Chhokangparo, Nile)
  • Buddhist Monasteries and Milarepa Cave
  • Untouched nature and varying cultures and ethnicities
  • Immerse yourself in the Himalayan lifestyle and culture of locals
  • Stunning views of snow-capped peaks (Siring Himal, Buddha Himal, Tabsar Himal, etc.)

Trip Overview

Lying as it is beyond the Himalayas, Upper Dolpo is one of the remotest districts in Nepal. However, it has been a region of curiosity for anthropologists and geographers. Eric Valley made the harsh lives of people, who live here by adjusting to the extremely hostile environment, the subject of his film “Caravan”. The images of this film, released in 1997, have since lingered in everyone’s mind.

But alpine desert-like land alone does not dominate this region. Nepal’s biggest national park, the Shey Phokshundo, is located in this region. The park derives its name from a monastery named Shey, and a huge glacial lake named Phoksundo. Together the park is meant to protect both the natural ecology and culture of the area. The park is home to such rare wildlife like Musk Deer, Himalayan Blue Sheep, and Snow Leopard. The occupations of people living here are animal husbandry and trade with Tibet.

In the Upper Dolpo trek, we will pass through several villages, valleys, and forest areas with coniferous vegetation above several passes including the highest Kang La Pass (5,375 m). We will spend a day or two in Ringmo village near the lake and then visit the legendary Shey monastery as well. This trek is intended to take you to this mysterious place and explore its unique lifestyle and strange land formations.

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Upper Dolpo Trek Gallery

Trip Outline

Day 01: Kathmandu Arrival (1400 m)

Arrive in Kathmandu, get welcomed by the representative, and transfer to the hotel.

Day 02: Trek preparation day (Optional: Sightseeing in Kathmandu)

Documentation works (Issue of Permits, Paper works), (Optional: Kathmandu Sightseeing).

Day 03: Fly to Nepalgunj (150 m)

Take a short scenic flight to Nepalgunj.

Day 04: Fly to Juphal (2140 m) and trek to Chhepka (2838 m)

A short flight to Juphal, and start trek to Chhepka traversing beautiful settlements.

Day 05: Trek to Amchi Hospital (3170 m)

Pass through forested trails and cross villages and the confluence of Sulighad and Pungmo Khola to reach Amchi Hospital.

Day 06: Trek to Ringmo Gaun (Phoksundo) (3660 m)

Pass through Cedar Forest, cross Palam village, and arrive at Ringmo Gaun.

Day 07: Acclimatization Day

Spend the day exploring Ringmo village, interacting with locals, and the mesmerizing Nepal’s deepest Phoksundo Lake.

Day 08: Trek to Chunemba (3640 m)

Pass through the stony trail with several ups and downs adoring the sight of Kajerwala Peak, and reach Chunemba village.

Day 09: Trek to Snowfield Camp (4400 m)

Trek through the rocky trail entering the narrow gorge. Walk on an ascending trail cherishing the surrounding beauty for a few hours and arrive at Snowfield Camp.

Day 10: Trek to Shey Gompa (4160 m) via Kang La Pass (5375 m)

Cross the highest point of the trek Kang La, cherish the stunning mountain and valley views, and descend to Shey Gompa.

Day 11: Rest Day

Spend the day visiting the peaceful ancient Shey Gompa, Tsakang Gompa, and nearby places.

Day 12: Trek to Namrung (4360 m) via Shey La (4975 m)

Cross the Shey La Pass admiring the stunning views of Mustang Valley and the Tibetan Plateau and follow the steep trail to reach Namrung.

Day 13: Trek to Saldang (4060 m)

Pass through the Namrung Khola and follow a steep trail to reach the beautiful village of Saldang.

Day 14: Trek to Sibu (4200 m)

Pass through multiple traditional villages adoring terraced fields, and several ancient Gompas to reach Sibu.

Day 15: Trek to Jeng La Phedi (4370 m)

Follow the trail through the shore of Khong Khola towards the village of Lagmo Che and enter Jeng La Phedi Valley.

Day 16: Trek to Tokyu (4200 m) via Jeng La Pass (5150 m)

Slowly ascend to Jeng La Pass and adore the fantastic views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, the southern Himalayas, and descend to Tokyu village.

Day 17: Trek to Dho Tarap (3940 m)

Pass through several villages and enter Dho Tarap which has numerous Buddhist monasteries.

Day 18: Trek to Sisaul (3750 m)

Walk through the shore of Tarap Khola cherishing the sights of Chortens and Mani walls on ascending and descending trails and reach Sisaul.

Day 19: Trek to Laina Odar (3370 m)

Walk on a rocky trail traversing Chortens, and huge rocks and passing through forested trails to reach Laina Odar.

Day 20: Trek to Lingdo (2390 m)

Walk through the forested trail surrounded by a variety of trees, cross the bridge, and trek until you reach Lingdo.

Day 21: Trek to Juphal (2140 m)

Pass through the forested trail, cross several settlements, an ancient Gompa, and cross the bridge to reach Juphal.

Day 22: Fly Nepalgunj and then to Kathmandu (1400 m)

Return to Kathmandu after completing the Upper Dolpo Trek.

Day 23: International departure

Transfer to the airport for your departure.

Essential Information

Accommodation

  • Mostly tented camping during this trek.
  • Locally owned teahouses or lodges in 2-3 stopovers.
  • Very basic but comfortable teahouses (beds, quilts, and pillows).
  • Bathrooms are mostly outside the teahouses.
  • Pay an additional cost for Wi-Fi services in Dunai.
  • Internet and phone networks are unstable and mostly no networks.
  • For emergencies, there is a satellite phone service.

Meals

  • Full-board meal options during the trek. (B+L+D)
  • The meals served during the trek are healthy and hygienic.
  • The meals are prepared by our professional cook during tented camping.
  • Limited variety of meals to choose from such as Nepali Dal-Bhat, soup, porridge, noodles, hot coffee, ginger honey tea, etc.

Drinking water

  • Fill boiled water at stopover teahouses paying an additional cost.
  • Fill tap water and use a water purification solution to prevent water-borne diseases.
  • During tented camping, boiled water for drinking is served.
  • Always carry a water bottle to minimize plastic pollution.
  • Airport – Hotel – Airport transfers and sightseeing by private transportation
  • Kathmandu – Nepalgunj- Juphal flight (two-way)

Upper Dolpo is a strenuous trek and is very demanding. The ideal seasons for this trek are Spring and Autumn as the weather and temperature are stable and offer incredible vistas. Since Dolpo is a rain-shadow area, this region receives minimum rainfall. Thus, the Upper Dolpo trek can be also done during the Monsoon season. In winter, this trek is not possible as heavy snowfall occurs and the region is closed for trekking.

Trekking Permits

Upper Dolpo Trek requires compulsory four permits i.e. Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Shey Phoksundo National Park, and the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS).

Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

  • USD 500 per person (10 days) + an extra USD 50 per person per day (beyond 10 days)

Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

  • USD 20 per person per week (first 4 weeks) + USD 5 per person per week (beyond 4 weeks)

Shey Phoksundo National Park

  • All Trekkers- NPR 3000/person

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)

  • Foreigners- NPR 2000/person
  • SAARC- NPR 1000/person
  • Diplomats/Foreign Officials & their families- NPR 500/person

 Documents required

  • Scanned copies of passport-sized photos and passports of each participant
  • Travel Insurance
  • Restricted Area Permits (Upper Dolpo and Lower Dolpo)
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park
  • TIMS

Trek Difficulty

Upper Dolpo is a strenuous trek with a maximum elevation of 5,375 m. It is difficult due to its long duration, high altitude, and challenging terrain. It involves long days of walking, steep ascents and descents, and crossing High Mountain passes. Also, the facilities are limited or very rare. It is beneficial if trekkers know how to use basic gear. This trek is mostly a tented camping trek and limited availability of accommodation and other services can also be challenging for some trekkers.

Fitness Level

Upper Dolpo trek demands trekkers to have top-notch fitness levels as it is very demanding. Trekkers should be physically and mentally sound to join this trek. With proper preparation, good physical fitness, and following the guide’s instructions Upper Dolpo Trek is achievable. Your familiarity with the mountainous terrain and previous trekking experience will be plus points. Besides, maintaining good health and necessary check-ups before the trek proves to be fruitful. Some physical exercises and mental exercises to carry out before the treks are as follows:

Physical Exercises

Cardiovascular Exercises, Leg Strength Exercises, Core Strength Exercises, Upper Body Strengthening, Foot and ankle Strengthening, Flexibility and Stability Exercises, and Hiking Specific Training.

Mental Exercises

Meditation, Breathing Exercises, Stress Management, Solo Reflection, Focus and Concentration Improvement, Setting a goal, Practicing problem-solving skills, Staying Calm and Positive, Enjoying every activity, etc.

The maximum elevation during the Upper Dolpo trek is 5,375 m (Kang La Pass) and requires crossing several high mountain passes. Hence, there is a high chance of getting altitude sickness and acclimatization rest is essential to prevent it.

Common symptoms of Altitude Sickness 

Headache, nausea, dizziness, uneasiness, appetite, and sleep loss, and on extreme some can experience unconsciousness and hallucination.

Preventions for Altitude Sickness 

  • Take an acclimatization rest
  • Inform the guide
  • Climb slowly and gradually
  • Keep yourself Hydrated
  • Avoid alcohol and salty foods
  • Know your body limit
  • Take a complete rest and sleep
  • Take medicine consulting a guide

It acts as a safety net and is essential for trekking. We recommend getting travel insurance from a reputed company.

  • Make sure that you are insured against cancellations, accidents, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of, or damage to, baggage, and personal effects.
  • In emergencies, we will arrange a helicopter rescue, medical treatment, and aftercare for you. Your travel insurance company shall bear all these costs.

Upper Dolpo is a strenuous trek. This trek requires crossing high passes which is challenging. This trek requires standard equipment and gear that trekkers can hire or bring on their own.

Clothes: Windcheater jacket, Thermals, Insulating Down Jacket, Fleece, Long sleeve shirts, Gloves, Towels, Inner garments, Trekking pants, Trousers, Shorts, Socks, Raincoat, Balaclava, Bandana, Gaiters

Shoes: Camp shoes, Pair of hiking boots, Rubber sandals

Essential Documents: Passport, Travel Permits, Visa Photocopy, Passport size photos

Food: Light snacks, Energy bars, and drink mix

Accessories: Sunglasses, Hats/Caps, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Water bottles, Pocket Knife, Solar chargers, Batteries, Head Lamps, Torch, Umbrella, Sewing kit, Water Purifying solution kits, reusable bags to deposit waste, separate clean/dirty clothes

Equipment: Warm Sleeping bags, Map, Trekking poles, Duffel bag

Gear: Ropes, Crampons, Ice Ax, Ice-claw, Harness, Microspikes (optional)

STANDARD SERVICE INCLUSION

  • Accommodation: 3 nights in a deluxe hotel in Kathmandu; 1 night in a lodge in Nepalgunj; Tented camp in the remote trekking area on a sharing basis
  • Meals: Breakfast in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj; 3 meals a day during the trek (meals will be prepared by the cook that we provide)
  • Transportation: Kathmandu – Nepalgunj- Juphal and flight tickets for clients and guides. Airport-hotel-airport transfers by private transport
  • Equipment/Accessories: Trekking poles, down jacket, sleeping bags, first-aid kit, water purifying solution (iodine-based) for complimentary use; kitchen and camping equipment (tents, stove, utensils, etc.)
  • Human resource: Professional English-speaking trekking guide and required porters, with their entire expenses covered (wages, meals, insurance, etc.)
  • Documentation: Lower Dolpo permit, Upper Dolpo permit (costs USD 500 per person per week), TIMS (Trekker’s information management system) Card; Please check the guidelines for a complete list of required documents
  • Tax/Service Charge: All applicable taxes, service charges, or fees. We hereby guarantee you no ‘hidden charges’ afterward.
  • Complimentary: Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (authentic Nepalese cuisines with live cultural show)
  • Trip Achievement Certificate: After returning from the trip, we will present you with a certificate of achievement
  • Emergency Rescue Service: Should any emergency arise during your trek, we will provide prompt and professional rescue and medical services. However, you must be already insured for such emergencies, and your insurance policy must cover helicopter evacuation. Moreover, you should provide your policy details and authorize us to deal directly with your insurance company on your behalf. Make sure that your Travel insurance covers up to 5500 Mtrs

What's not included?

  • Beverage (Cold/Alcoholic drinks, Bottled Mineral Water, extra tea/coffee, etc.)
  • Any other expenses of a personal nature (extra meals/Snacks/Dessert, Wi-Fi, battery charging fees, photography charges, Hot Shower, etc.)
  • Tips for Guide and Porters (Expected) and any Donations.
  • Your travel insurance
  • Nepal Visa (You can apply and obtain the visa on arrival at the Immigration desk, apply visa https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/
  • International Air Fares
  • Activities (Sightseeing/tours) cost in Kathmandu (available at extra cost)
  • Costs arise due to unforeseen weather conditions, natural disasters, political issues, incomplete trips because of personal problems, mountain sickness, physical status, early return from the trek, late departure & any costs other than those mentioned in the inclusion section

Detail Itinerary

Day 01 Arrival and transfer to hotel

30-45 min

Arrival and transfer to hotel in Thamel. Introduction with the guide and final check of equipment and trekking documents.

Hotel

Day 02 Trek preparation day (Optional: Sightseeing in Kathmandu, UNESCO World Heritage sites)

5-6 hrs

While we take care of your documentation (issuing of trekking permit and TIMS), you can enjoy a day tour of Kathmandu city with our tour guide. (Optional with an Extra Cost)

Hotel

Day 03 Fly to Nepalgunj

50-min flight

Have breakfast and take a domestic flight to Nepalgunj that takes approx. 50 minute. Get transferred to the hotel with our representative. Later, visit nearby places, the famous Bageshwori temple, and stroll the nearby markets.

Lodge

Day

Day 04 Fly to Juphal and trek to Chhepka (2838m)

30-min flight, 2-3 hrs

In the morning, take a half-an-hour flight to Juphal. Arrive at Juphal, and start the trek on a descending trail. Reach Dunai after passing Thulo Bheri and stop for lunch or light snacks. Continue to trek and submit trek permits at check-post. Admiring the beautiful landscapes traversing the beautiful settlements of Kageni, and Shangta villages. Cross a bridge over Phoksundo and walk to the north to reach Chhepka.

Tent Camp

Day 05 Trek to Amchi Hospital (3170m)

Elevation: 5-6 hrs

Walk through the forested trail which is full of multiple ascends and descends. Cross a bridge to reach Renje and from there again follow the ascending and descending trail. Reach the confluence of Sulighad and Pungmo Khola and cross Jharana Hotel to arrive at Amchi Hospital.

Tent Camp

Day 06 Trek to Ringmo Gaun (Phoksundo) (3733m)

5-6 hrs

Follow the trail and ascend to the forest of Cedar to arrive at Palam. A beautiful place and also a winter settlement of the Ringmo locals. Walk for a few hours on the descending and ascending trail and reach Ringmo Gaun. Get a sight of Mani walls and chortens and set a camp near the shores of Phoksundo.

Tent Camp

Day 07 Acclimatization Day

4-5 hrs

Under our properly scheduled itinerary, a day of our first acclimatization rest. It is very essential to take a rest to adjust the body to the surrounding altitude. Spend the day exploring Ringmo village, interacting with locals, and the mesmerizing Nepal’s deepest Phoksundo Lake. Also, visit the ancient Bon Monastery of Tshowa.

Tent Camp

Day 08 Trek to Chunemba

Elevation: 3640m

Tent Camp

Day 09 Trek to Snowfield Camp (4400m)

4-5 hrs

Trek through the rocky trail entering the narrow gorge. Walk on an ascending trail cherishing the surrounding beauty for a few hours and arrive at Snowfield Camp.

Tent Camp

Day 10 Trek to Shey Gompa (4160m) via Kang La Pass (5375m)

6-7 hrs

A tough trek that commences with a steep climb towards the highest point of the trek i.e. Kang La Pass (5,375m). Slowly ascend and from the top cherish the stunning views of snowy mountains and beautiful valleys. Descend slowly witnessing grazing animals in the grassland. Cross the wooden bridge, walk a little further, and arrive at Shey Gompa.

Teahouse

Day 11 Rest Day (Exploration Day)

3-4 hrs

The second scheduled rest day after traversing the highest pass of the trek. Spend the day visiting the peaceful ancient Shey Gompa, Tsakang Gompa, and nearby places. If you wish to interact with the locals, they are friendly. You might get a better understanding of the local’s rural life and their culture.

Tent Camp

Day 12 Trek to Namgung (4360m) via Shey La (4975m)

5-6 hrs

Commence the trek through a narrow valley and slowly ascend towards Shey La Pass. Traverse the pass and admire the stunning views of Mustang Valley and the Tibetan Plateau. Walk slowly and climb on a steep trail to reach Namrung.

Tent Camp

Day 13 Trek to Saldang (4060m)

5-6 hrs

Trek through the Namrung Khola and descend on a steep trail slowly. After a few hours, reach the beautiful Saldang village that is close to the Tibetan border.

Tent Camp

Day 14 Trek to Sibu (4200m)

4-5 hrs

From Saldang, start the trek crossing multiple traditional villages adoring terraced fields. Walk past several ancient Gompas, witnessing numerous Mani Walls and Chortens. Reach Sibu for an overnight stay.

Tent Camp

Day 15 Trek to Jeng La Phedi

5-6 hrs

Follow the trail through the shore of Khong Khola towards the village of Lagmo Che. Get a glimpse of herding Yaks and continue to trek and enter Jeng La Phedi Valley.

Tent Camp

Day 16 Trek to Tokyu (4200m) via Jeng La Pass (5150m)

5-6 hrs

Ascend slowly to reach Jeng La Pass which is at an elevation of 5150m. From the summit, enjoy fantastic views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, the southern Himalayas, and enchanting valley views. Descend slowly and reach Tokyu after passing Tarap Valley.

Tent Camp

Day 17 Trek to Dho Tarap (3940m)

4-5 hrs

Dho is a beautiful traditional village surrounded by many fields with planted crops like barley, buckwheat, and potatoes. Continue to trek to this wonderful village which has numerous Buddhist monasteries. Reach Dho Tarap, and excursion to nearby Ribo Bhuma Gompa, and Shipchaur Gompa.

Tent Camp

Day 18 Trek to Sisaul (3750m)

5-6 hrs

Descend through the shore of Tarap Khola cherishing the sights of chortens and Mani walls. Then, climb uphill to a pass and again climb downhill to reach Sisaul.

Tent Camp

Day 19 Trek to Laina Odar (3370m)

4-5 hrs

Ascend on a rocky trail traversing chortens, and huge rocks to reach Nawarpani. Descend through the narrow trail traversing pine forest and reach Laina Odar.

Tent Camp

Day 20 Trek to Lingdo (2390m)

Elevation: 4-5 hrs

Walk through the forested trail surrounded by trees of pine, juniper, and fir. Cross the bridge over Thulo Bheri and you might come across some grey langurs. Continue to trek until one reaches Lingdo village.

Tent Camp

Day 21 Trek to Juphal

5-6 hrs

Pass through the forested trail, cross several settlements, and an ancient Gompa. Cross the bridge and walk past the Kalagauda and Dangiwala village before entering Juphal.

Tent Camp

Day 22 Fly to Nepalgunj and then to Kathmandu

80 mins flight (two flights)

Take a morning flight to Nepalgunj and rest a while before departing to Kathmandu Transferred to the hotel upon reaching Kathmandu. Rest and relax and in the evening, join us for the cultural farewell dinner. Stay overnight at a hotel.

Hotel

Day 23 International Departure

Farewell and airport transfer at your required time.

Upper Dolpo Trek FAQs

Spring (Mar-May), Autumn (Sep-Nov), and Monsoon (Jun-Aug) seasons are best for the Upper Dolpo Trek. The weather and temperature are favorable, and the views are clear.

The Upper Dolpo Trek typically takes around 20 to 23 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and your trekking pace.

The Upper Dolpo region is known for its diverse wildlife and natural attractions. You may encounter rare species like the snow leopard, blue sheep, Himalayan Thar, and various bird species. The trek also takes you through beautiful valleys, alpine meadows, and the stunning Phoksundo Lake.

Since it is a challenging trek, it involves high altitudes, rugged terrains, and long days of walking. Excellent physical fitness and experience in high-altitude trekking are very fruitful for the Upper Dolpo Trek.

Both the Upper and Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry, and TIMS Permit are required for the Upper Dolpo Trek.

The Upper Dolpo Trek is physically demanding due to its long duration, high altitude, and challenging terrain. It involves steep ascents, descents, and walking for several hours each day.

To prevent altitude-related risks during the trek, take proper acclimatization rest, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and descend if you experience the symptoms.

Since this is a camping trek, most days trek consist of camping in designated camping areas. There are limited tea houses or lodges available. Camping equipment, including tents and sleeping bags, is typically provided by your trekking agency.

Drinking water is safe and easily available but to avoid waterborne illnesses carry a water bottle, water purification tablets, or use a water filter. Bottled water may not be easily available, so it’s important to be prepared with water purification methods.

The maximum altitude during the Upper Dolpo Trek is 5375 m, Kang La Pass.

For the Upper Dolpo Trek, consult with your trekking agency for a detailed packing list. Some essential items include warm and waterproof clothing, sturdy trekking boots, a sleeping bag, a backpack, trekking poles, a first aid kit, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera.

The main attractions during the Upper Dolpo trek are ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, unique traditions, & the lifestyle of the Dolpo people, and the mesmerizing Phoksundo Lake.

Yes, the Upper Dolpo Trek itinerary can be customized to suit your preferences and time constraints. However, it’s important to consult with a professional trekking agency or guide to ensure that the necessary logistics, permits, and acclimatization are properly accounted for.

Communication facilities such as mobile network coverage and internet access are extremely limited during the Upper Dolpo Trek.

Hiring a licensed guide is mandatory for the Upper Dolpo Trek. A guide provides valuable support in terms of navigation, cultural interpretation, and ensuring your safety. They are familiar with the terrain and can help make your trek more enjoyable and informative.

Customers Reviews

5 - Excellent