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Lower Dolpo Trekking

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Duration
18 Days
Trip Grade
Very Strenuous
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
5,190 m
Group Size
1 – 12 People

Lower Dolpo Trek – A journey to the hidden gem of the western Himalayas of Nepal

Lower Dolpo is a hidden gem and one of the most secluded Himalayan regions of Nepal. The trekking route to Lower Dolpo lies west of Kali Gandaki, inside Shey Phoksundo National Park towards Tibetan Plateau. Lower Dolpo is naturally and culturally blessed with the region; offering you the feast of stunning landscapes of Trans-Himalayan Mountain, Tibetan Buddhist and Bonpo culture, unrivalled beauty, turquoise-tinted Phoksundo Lake, spectacular mountain peaks, high passes and a real sense of being in the wilderness.

Lower trek start with a visit to UNESCO designated world heritage site in Kathmandu. Next, we take a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj followed by a small airstrip to Jhupal. We start our trek on a remote trail enjoying the mesmerizing rain shadow landscapes of the Himalayas, presented in colourful slopes of mountains where light and shadow show the everlasting sight of beauty. The area is well-documented by a French geographical photographer of National Geographic, Eric Valli. He successfully presented the rugged charm and mystical beauty including unique culture and tradition. While on the trek to Lower Dolpo, We get to discover the yak caravans that still maintain the ancient salt trade route to Tibet.

Surrounded by the Tibetan plateau to the North and the lofty Dhaulagiri massif to the south, the region is home to rare floral and faunal species (including blue sheep and snow leopard), amazing high passes and sweeping Himalayan vistas. The medicinal herb “Yarchagumba” (Coreopsis SInensis) is found in abundance here and is widely recognized for its benefits of improving health and fitness.

Dolpo continues to be a rural region unaffected by outside influences. For a number of reasons, the Nepali government included Upper Dolpo and Lower Dolpo on the list of prohibited areas. Dolpo's distinct and fascinating culture and traditions are its greatest resource. They must be kept safe. Additionally, this will stop the biological and ecological decline. The distance from civilization makes Dolpo inaccessible to trekkers, which is another important factor. If something goes wrong, the hikers require immediate help. Due to Dolpo's geographical limitations and the lack of even the most basic infrastructure, such support could not be provided right away.

Highlight of Lower Dolpo trekking

 Shey-Phoksundo Lake

  • Shey Gompa Buddhist holy sites

  • Old village Dho Tarap and Saldang

  • Rhododendron forest 

  • Different flora and fauna 

  • Blue sheep, Snow Leopard, and Himalayan Tahr

  • Suspension bridges and river

  • Picturesque landscape 

  • Prayer flags, prayer wheels and monasteries

  • Crystal mountain (7,012m)

  • Tibetan ancient villages, culture and tradition

Lower Dolpo Trek with Phoksundo Lake

Trekking to Phoksundo Lake during the Dolpo trip is an amazing experience. The trail goes through the exotic forest, and charming landscapes and along Torrent River with the magnificent view of snow-capped peaks. The tantalizing deep-blue and emerald hues of the deepest lake in Nepal, Phoksundo Lake is the major attraction of the trek. It is probably the most pristine and natural touristic destination in Nepal.

If time permits, we explore for a day or two enjoying the lake and surrounding landscapes. We also explore an ancient Tshowa Monastery located on the east bank of Phoksundo Lake where people still offer their prayers.

To the south bank of the river is Ringo village where you can get close to peeking at traditional Bon Po culture.

Important Note

Trekker’s safety is our major concern. Please note that your leader has full authority to cancel or amend the itinerary when it comes to safety issues. Every effort will be made to keep the itinerary ongoing, however, the trekking adventure takes you deep into remote mountain regions, so we cannot assure you that we will not change the scheduled itinerary. Weather and health conditions and unforeseen natural disasters and events etc. can contribute to altering the given itinerary. We request you be flexible if required.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu, Tribhuvan International Airport (1,300m/4,264ft)

Day 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and preparation for the trek

Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – 1 hour

Day 04: Fly from Nepalgunj – Jhupal and trek to Dunai (2,850m/9,348ft) – 45 mins flight, 2 -3 hours trek

Day 05: Dunai – Tarakot (2,543m/8,341ft) – 5 – 6 hours trek

Day 06: Tarakot – Laini (3,160m/10,365ft) – 5 – 6 hours trek

Day 07: Laini – Nawarpani (3,545m/11,627ft) – 5 – 6 hours trek

Day 08: Nawarpani – Do Tarap (4,090m/13,415ft) – 7 – 8 hours trek

Day 09: Rest and acclimatization at Do Tarap (4,090m/13,415ft) – 7 – 8 hours trek

Day 10: Do Tarap – Numa La Base Camp (4,440m/14,563ft) – 6 – 7 hours trek

Day 11: Cross Num La Pass (5,190m/17,023ft) and trek to Pelung Tang (4,465m/13,382ft) – 6 – 7 hours trek

Day 12: Cross Baga La Pass (5,070m/16,630ft) and trek to Dajok Tang (4,080m/13,382ft) – 6 hours trek

Day 13: Dajok Tang – Ringmo (3,600m/11,808ft) – 3 – 4 hours trek

Day 14: Ringmo – Phoksundo Lake

Day 15: Phoksundo Lake – Shyanta (2,520m/8,265ft) – 5 – 6 hours trek

Day 16: Syanta – Jhupal

Day 17: Flight: Jhupal – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu

Day 18: Final Departure

Lower Dolpo Trekking Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu, Tribhuvan International Airport

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, a representative from Nepal Horizon Trek & Expedition will receive you and transfer you to the hotel. Please look out for our treks & expedition in display card. Take your time to refresh and in afternoon, visit Nepal Horizon’s office. In the evening, join welcome dinner organized by Nepal Horizon in typical Nepali restaurant with cultural shows. 

Max Altitude: 1,300m (4,265ft)
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 2

Kathmandu: Sightseeing and preparation for the trek

After breakfast, proceed for a guided tour to UNESCO designated world heritage sites in Kathmandu. Visit Pashupatianath (a sacred Hindu Temple), Boudhanath (largest Buddha stupa in Nepal), Swayambhunath (2,000 years old monkey temple) and Durbar Square (ancient royal Durbar).

In noon, attend pre-trip discussion where we introduce to our trek leaders and other members. We will give the brief about the trek and also provide opportunity to ask any question regarding the upcoming adventure.

Max Altitude: 1,300m (4,265ft)
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 3

Fly from Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – 1 hour

After short trip in Kathmandu, we catch a hour-long flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj located in western Nepal. Nepalgunj, a town located to India border, is the gateway to Simikot, Humla. We visit local market, mini-zoo and explore the villages.

Duration: 1 hour
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 4

Fly from Nepalgunj – Jhupal and trek to Dunai 45 mins flight, 2 -3 hours trek

After breakfast, we fly to Jhupal – a picturesque village located at the lap of Himalaya foothills with the views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks to the north. Here we meet our rest of trekking staff and start our trekking. Waking through the terraced fields alongside the Bheri River and narrow gorge, we reach Dunai. Dunai is administrative headquarter of Dolpo region. We explore this small village and camp overnight.

Max Altitude: 2,850m (9,350ft)
Duration: 2-3 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 5

Dunai – Tarakot m/8, 5 – 6 hours trek

After breakfast, we continue our trek through the southern bank of the Bheri River and head upstream on an easy trail. On the way, we pass deep gorges, hanging bridges and secluded hamlets. The trail also come across the tremendous gorge with pine trail and walk on path built about 7m above the river. After walking for sometimes, we reach the beautiful settlement of Tarakot.

Overnight in Tarakot

Max Altitude: 2,543m (8,343ft)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 6

Tarakot – Laini 5 – 6 hours trek

Today we walk alongside the Tarap Chu River and cross it two times before reaching the Sandul Gompa. The Gompa is majestically located at the confluence of Barbung Khola and Tarap Chu River. We continue our journey through the farm terraces and isolated village and take several uphill and downhill movements before reaching the village of Laini.

Overnight in Laini

Max Altitude: 3,160m (10,367ft)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 7

Laini – Nawarpani 5 – 6 hours trek

Today, we negotiate a steep trail and walk on a zigzag trail at the upper reaches of Tarap River. We walk on an adventurous trail and at some point the trail so exciting that the gorge narrows down to that extent that you can jump from one side to another. Several rough climbs and drops leads us to the Chyugur Khola and a short walk takes us to Nawarpani.

Overnight in Nawarpani

Max Altitude: 3,545m (11,630ft)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 8

Nawarpani – Do Tarap 7 – 8 hours trek

After breakfast, we climb gradually to Kamattarka and reach the juncture of Tarap Chu and Lang Khola. Next, we cross a narrow gorge and walk high up the tree line. We can see wild roses and juniper bushes and discover dry inner Himalayan valleys. After few hours of walk, we reach Do Tarap village. It is beautiful village surrounded by an irregular stone wall. Bon Po and Chaiba religious sects are major inhabitants of the region. It is populated by few Tibetan and mostly Magars who lived here for generations.

Overnight in Do Tarap

Max Altitude: 4,090m (13,418ft)
Duration: 7-8 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 9

Rest and acclimatization at Do Tarap 7 – 8 hours trek

Today we take a well-deserved rest in Dho Tarap. We spend the day explore the village of Dh Tarap which is surrounded by irregular stone walls. The exploration hike helps us to familiarize with local culture and tradition. Dho Village has 40 houses which is divided into three clusters and built in a haphazard way. The area is majorly inhabited by Tibetan and Magars communities.

Overnight in tented camp

Max Altitude: 4,090m (13,418ft)
Duration: 7-8 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 10

Do Tarap – Numa La Base Camp 6 – 7 hours trek

Today we climb to the upper Tarap valley admiring the wonderful lush grassland on the both side of river. It is beautiful part of inner Dolpo. Walking along the Tarap Chu River, we get the mesmerizing view of Tarap Valley with its wide plain and high mountains. A few hours of walk leads us to Tokyu where we halt to explore Buddhist monastery of the Chiba sect. Then we walk via rough trail to reach Numa La Base Camp.

Overnight in Numa La Base Camp

Max Altitude: 4,440m (14,566ft)
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 11

Cross Num La Pass (5,190m/17,023ft) and trek to Pelung Tang 2ft 6 – 7 hours trek

This is one of the challenging part of the trek. It is longest too. After early morning breakfast, we climb towards Numa La Pass via a seep trail. The top of pass features the amazing views of Dolpo, Mt. Dhaulagiri and other peak.  Then we drop down to Pelung Tang.

Overnight in Pelung Tang

Max Altitude: 4,465m (14,648ft)
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 12

Cross Baga La Pass (5,070m/16,630ft) and trek to Dajok Tang – 6 hours trek

After breakfast, we continue another steep climb to the summit of Baga La Pass. From here, we admire the fantastic view of amazing Dolpo region and distance view of mountain peaks including Kanjirowa. We enjoy some moments here before dropping down to Dajok Tang.

Overnight in Dajok Tang

Max Altitude: 4,080m (13,385ft)
Duration: 6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 13

Dajok Tang – Ringmo 3 – 4 hours trek

Today, we walk along the beautiful forest of pine and alpine vegetation. Walking on a fairly easy trail with gradual highs and lows, we reach the warm village of Ringmo. It is a traditional Tibetan village of Dolpo region.

Max Altitude: 3,600m (11,811ft)
Duration: 3-4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 14

Ringmo – Phoksundo Lake

Today we explore the beautiful lake of Phoksundo and cam at its shores. We encounter many Yak caravans moving in and out of Ringmo towards Tibetan borders. The scene is well pictured in the Hollywood move “Caravan”. We enjoy our day on Lake Phoksundo.

Overnight in Phoksundo

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 15

Phoksundo Lake – Shyanta 5 – 6 hours trek

After breakfast, we drop off to Chepka and follow the trail passing overhanging rock. Here we find many important medicinal mineral which are considered as a cure to almost anything in the area. We cross several small village before reaching Shyanta.

Overnight in Shyanta

Max Altitude: 2,520m (8,267ft)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 16

Syanta – Jhupal

Today we trek towards Jhupal via Sulighat on a forested route of birch. We reach the top of a ridge which displays the mesmerizing view of mountains and Jhupal village below. Please be careful on this trail. After reaching at Jhupal, we enjoy our free day resting at hotel or exploring local market.

Overnight in Jhupal

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 17

Flight: Jhupal – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu

We take the earliest possible flight to Nepaljung and then fly back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival at Kathmandu, we drive back to the hotel and take a rest day off. In the evening, we attend a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of the trek hosted by Nepal Horizon Treks & Expedition.

Max Altitude: 1,300m (4,265ft)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 18

Final Departure

Transfer to the Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure

Meals: Breakfast
Dipendra Bhatta
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Trip Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle
  • Camping and Teahouse accommodations and meals (breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
  • Welcome and Farewell Dinner
  • All the ground transportation as per itinerary in cozy vehicle
  • Round flight (Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Juphal – Nepalgunj - Kathmandu)
  • An experienced, English speaking and government licensed trekking guide and assistant guide (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide)
  • Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
  • All the trekking staffs salary, insurance, equipment, domestic airfare, food and accommodation
  • Down Jacked and Sleeping Bag (to be returned after the completion of the trip)
  • Lower Dolpo trekking route map
  • All the necessary trekking permits and paper works
  • All the governmental and local taxes
  • Medial kit (carried by your trek leader)

Excludes

  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • International Flight fare
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal nature expenses – Phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
  • Tips for guides, porters and drivers

Altitude Chart

Essential Information

Lower dolpo trekking route

The lower Dolpa trek generally starts at Juphal airport. Here, we meet the rest of our trekking team and begin our hike. We arrived in Dunai after rising through the terraced fields next to the Bheri River and its tight valley. The Dolpo region's administrative center is located at Dunai. We are having our dinner and staying overnight in the hotel or lodge in Dunai. 

After breakfast, we carry on our hike along the Bheri River's southern side before ascending a simple path. We travel by deep canyons, dangling bridges, and remote villages. The path also passes by a massive gorge with pine trees and a walkway that is about 7 meters above the river. We eventually arrive at Tarakot, a picturesque community, after some time spent walking. Overnight in Tarakot. 

Next day we start our walk to the Sandul Gompa today, we cross the Tarap Chu River twice while making our way along its banks. At the meeting point of the Tarap Chu and Barbung Khola rivers, the Gompa is magnificently situated. Before arriving at the settlement of Laini, we do multiple uphill and downhill moves through the farm terraces and remote village. Overnight in Laini. 

After overnight in Laini we trekked into a narrow canyon and down a zigzag path near the upper levels of the Tarap River. We travel on a trail that is both fascinating and dangerous, and at one point where the canyon narrows to the point that you can jump from one side to the other. We reach the Chyugur Khola after a series of difficult ascents and descents, and a short stroll brings us to Nawarpani. Overnight in Nawarpani. 

On this day, early in the morning after having our breakfast, we make a steady ascent to Kamattarka, where we come to the intersection of Tarap Chu and Lang Khola. We next proceed to cross a narrow gorge and ascend far above the tree line. We can find arid interior Himalayan valleys and see juniper and wild rose bushes. We arrive in Do Tarap village after a few hours of walking. The picturesque settlement is encircled by an unkempt stone wall. The Bon Po and Chaiba religious sects make up the majority of the local population. Few Tibetans, primarily Magars who10 have resided in this area for many generations, make up the population. Sleep at Do Tarap.

On day 10, we are taking a well-earned break today in Dho Tarap. The village of Dho Tarap, which is surrounded by crooked stone walls, is where we spend the day exploring. We became more familiar with local customs and culture thanks to the exploratory hike. The 40 homes of Dho Village, which are grouped into three clusters, were constructed in an indisciplined manner. Tibetan and Magar communities predominate in the area.

Today we climbed to the upper Tarap valley, where we took in the gorgeous, lush grassland on both sides of the river. It is a stunning area of the inner Dolpo. As we stroll alongside the Tarap Chu River, we are treated to a spellbinding panorama of the Tarap Valley and its expansive plains and lofty mountains. After a few hours of walking, we arrive in Tokyu, where we stop to tour a Chiba sect Buddhist temple. We then make our way down a rocky trail to Numa La Base Camp.

This is one of the more difficult sections of the journey. It's also the longest. After breakfast in the early morning, we ascend towards Numa La Pass along a seep trail. Amazing views of Dolpo, Mt. Dhaulagiri, and other peaks can be found at the top of the pass. Next, we descend to Pelung Tang. In the evening, Pelung Tang. 

On this day, after overnighting in Pelung Tang, we continue the ascent to the peak of Baga La Pass after breakfast. From here, we can see the stunning Dolpo region and high peaks in the distance, including Kanjirowa. Before going down to Dajok Tang, we take a few moments to relax here. Dajok Tang, overnight.

Today, we stroll through a stunning pine and alpine plantation. We arrive in the friendly community of Ringmo after a relatively simple hike with steady ascents and descents. In the Dolpo region, it is a traditional Tibetan village.

Today, we visit the shores of the stunning Phoksundo Lake and explore it. Numerous Yak caravans may be seen entering and leaving Ringmo on their way to the Tibetan border. The Hollywood film "Caravan" does a good job of picturing the scene. On Lake Phoksundo, we have a good time. Spend the night in Phoksundo.

Following breakfast, we depart towards Chepka and continue on the trail while navigating overhanging rocks. Many significant therapeutic minerals may be found here that are thought to be treatments for practically anything local. Before reaching Shyanta, we pass through a number of tiny villages. Overnight in Shyanta.

Today, we are trekking from Sulighat to Jhupal through a birch-forested path. When we reach the top of a ridge, a breathtaking panorama of the mountains and the settlement of Jhupal below is revealed. Be careful on this trail, please. After arriving in Jhupal, we spent the remainder of the day relaxing at the hotel or visiting the neighbourhood.

We fly as soon as we can to Nepaljung before returning to Kathmandu. We return to the hotel after arriving in Kathmandu and have a day off. We go to a farewell meal hosted by Nepal Horizon Treks & Expedition in the evening to commemorate the trek's successful conclusion.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

What is the best month for Lower Dolpo Trekking?

The best months for Lower Dolpo trekking are autumn and spring.

Is there WiFi available during this trek?

Yes wifi is available almost in every hotel. However, the speed of the network depends on the local weather conditions.

Is Lower Dolpo trekking a difficult trek?

This physically challenging walk includes multiple uphill and downhill sections as well as two high passes over 5000 meters. Thus, this journey is regarded as one of Nepal's more challenging ones.

Do we need guides during Lower Dolpo trekking?

No, it is not compulsory to hire a guide during Lower Dolpo Trekking. But hiring a guide will give you a good trekking experience.

What is the maximum elevation of Lower Dolpo trekking?

The maximum elevation during Lower Dolpo trekking is 5,238m at the Numa La. 

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