Lower Dolpo Trek

Far-West Nepal
  • Duration17 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Activity Trekking/Hiking
  • Max. Altitude 5309 meter
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Group Size 2-20
  • Best Season March to May and September to November
Group Discount Prices
  
2 paxUS$2390
3 - 6 paxUS$2190
7 - 10 paxUS$1990
11 - 15 paxUS$1890
16 - 20 paxUS$1790
Lower Dolpo Trek Highlights
  • Scenic flight to Juphal
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park and its wide array of rare flora and fauna
  • The hypnotic beauty of  Phoksundo lake
  • A bastion of old-world Tibetan culture locked away behind the barriers of Dhaulagiri
  • The high passes of  Bagala La  and Numa La

The Lower Dolpo Trek offers a chance to join Nepal Trekking Experts on a trek through one of the most remote regions of Nepal. Located in the northwest, the journey begins with a short, scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalguni, then a 30-minute flight to Juphal, the starting point for the trek.

Lower Dolpo is a region of dramatic landscapes and a culture far different from that with which the majority of experienced trekkers might be familiar in other parts of the country. The Dolpo region lies in the rain shadow of the towering mass of Dhaulagiri (8167m), resulting in a semi-arid and remote region that’s inextricably linked to Tibetan culture and well-preserved against the encroachment of the outside world, with local practices and beliefs that seem like echoes of a distant past, including some of the purest forms of Buddhism. The whole region is said to have been blessed by Guru Rinpoche during the 8th century and has long been a refuge for devout Buddhists in troubled times.

In addition to the intriguing insights into the local culture, the Lower Dolpo Trek opens up a plethora of opportunities to observe some of Nepal’s most unique animals, including species endemic to the region such as blue sheep, various types of deer, mountain goats, black bears, and the most elusive and legendary of them all, the snow leopard.

Another of the trek's highlights is Shey-Phoksundo National Park, home to the spectacular Phoksundo Lake, a serene body of water surrounded by soaring cliffs that seems like a dreamy image from a fantasy novel.

The trek isn't only about stunning lakes and wildlife, though. The breathtaking heights of not one but two high passes await trekkers willing to take on the trail's challenges, firstly Numa La at 5309 meters and then Bagala Pass a day later at 5169 meters.

So if the Lower Dolpo Trek's many charms appeal, why not contact Nepal Trekking Experts, and let’s start planning for your adventure to the region?

Moreover, you may also choose Manaslu Circuit Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, Upper Dolpo Trek, and many more graceful packages.

Useful Information
  • Respect the local culture.
  • Kindly ask permission before taking photos or videos of locals.
  • Manage your garbage for the sake of the environment.
  • Respect wildlife. Killing animals is totally prohibited.
  • For your own safety, always stay close to the walls when being passed by donkeys or porters on narrow trails.
  • Drink plenty of water each day. Dehydration can be one of the contributing causes of AMS.
  • Remain attuned to your body as it pertains to symptoms of altitude sickness, and be honest with yourself.
  • Consider the enormous benefits of trekking with a local guide who's thoroughly familiar with the region.
  • Before you begin your trek, please double-check your trekking equipment.
  • Bring your mountain medical kit and personal insurance coverage.
  • Good acclimatization is key to a successful trip.
Itinerary
  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:2/3 star hotel

Welcome at the airport and transfer to your hotel. An introduction to your trekking program then the rest of the day at leisure to enjoy the sights, sounds, and culture of Kathmandu.

  • Max. Altitude:158m/518ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:2/3 star hotel

After having a meeting with a guide and preparing trekking permits and trekking gear, we take an afternoon flight to Nepalgunj, where we stay overnight.

  • Max. Altitude:2140m/7021ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Homestay

Early in the morning, we take another flight to Juphal and then start our trek in the region with a short hike to Dunai along the Thuli Bheri River. If time permits, there is plenty to see within the town, including a stupa and monastery.

  • Max. Altitude:2540m/8333ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Homestay

A series of streams map the pathway for the day through dense pine forests and terraced hillsides to the fortified village of Tarakot sitting resolutely atop its picturesque hillside, with myriad flagpoles jutting up proudly amidst the homes.  Nearby is the monastery of Sandul Gompa, well worth the visit along a pathway lined with numerous chortens and mani walls.

  • Max. Altitude:3370m/11056ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Homestay

The trail climbs steadily throughout the day across a series of picturesque suspension bridges and through the dense jungle until we reach the day's goal, Laini Odar, a former construction camp with a dramatic Cliffside setting and the nearby cave that provides suitable shelter in inclement weather.

  • Max. Altitude:3780m/12402ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Homestay

The dense forest of the previous day gives way to barren landscapes as we slowly ascend beside the banks of the Tarap Khola, with alpine wildlife on show such as yak and blue sheep. The day concludes with a dramatic suspension bridge crossing high over the Chaya Khola and our arrival at the village of Nawarpani.

  • Max. Altitude:3944m/12940ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Homestay

The Tarap Khola leads the way for the start of the day, guiding us over an undulating course that peaks at Charkala (4920m) and descends again into the narrow valley, so deep a ravine that it requires the midday sun to light the lower pathways. Numerous chortens and stupas mark the passage through to Dho Tarap, with the Tibetan village's whitewashed gompa standing proudly at its heart.

  • Max. Altitude:3944m/12940ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Homestay

A day to ease back and allow the body to acclimate to the higher altitudes, with Dho Tarap allowing ample opportunity to explore its many charms, as well as to observe the traditional Tibetan lifestyles of its friendly inhabitants, who still trade with their ancient homeland to the north via their Yak caravans. Throw in a visit to the Gompa, the maze of fascinating laneways to explore, and the breathtaking views of the Himalayas and Phoksundo Lake, and Dho Tarap is the kind of place you could easily spend the better part of a week reveling in.

  • Max. Altitude:4440m/14567ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Homestay

Reluctantly exiting Dho Tarap we head higher through the northern and arid section of the valley to Numala Base Camp, taking in the stunning landscapes of Dhaulagiri and other peaks around us as the trail brings us into the rocky basin that comprises our campsite.

  • Max. Altitude:4512m/14803ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Homestay

A steep trail takes us on toward the challenging climb of Numa La pass, where we pause to take in the magnificent panorama our high viewpoint grants us. From there it's all downhill through terraced fields and Yak pastures to the village of Danigar.

  • Max. Altitude:3995m/13107ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Homestay

A further day of high-altitude trekking, climbing steadily along a traditional yak trail back over the 5000-meter mark to Bagala pass and its equally impressive views of the nearby mountain ranges. A steady descent through a deep gorge brings us back down through the alpine stretches of the trail to a more temperate climate of pine forests and our day's destination of Ringmogaun.

  • Max. Altitude:3641m/11946ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Homestay

After the high altitude and lung-wrenching trekking of the previous few days, we get the welcome break of a relatively easy hike to Phoksundo Lake, with glorious views of the turquoise waters and the lake's stunning setting amidst the high mountains soaring up on either side.  Imagine Lake Como or Interlaken without the development or people — the answer is fabulous Phoksundo!

  • Max. Altitude:3641m/11946ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Homestay

A full day to explore the surroundings of the glorious lake waters. The medieval  Bon monastery of Tshowa, built over 900 years ago, stands nearby and offers up further opportunities to explore.

  • Max. Altitude:2678m/8786ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Homestay

Leaving the classic mountain capes behind us we trail along by a stream until a steep climb gives us one last farewell view of Phoksundo before our heading takes us south through dense pine and birch forests to our day's destination of Chhepka.

  • Max. Altitude:2475m/8120ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Homestay

A gradual ascent takes us through birch forests to the villages of Shyanta and Kageni, heralding our exit from Shey Phoksundo National Park and the return to the outside world. A suspension bridge takes us across the Dhim Khola and on to our final destination for the trek, Juphal, where we spend the night and celebrate the completion of our long journey.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast

Local transport takes us back to Nepalgunj, where we pick up a flight to take us back to Kathmandu.

    Farewell and drop-off at the airport, or the opportunity to join another of our programs. 

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    Note

    The above itinerary is a guideline. If you're not satisfied or have an alternative plan please feel free to discuss it with us.

    What's Included
    Cost Includes
    • Complimentary airport picks-up and drops-off
    • Complimentary welcome dinner
    • Two-night stay in Kathmandu, including breakfast (twin share).
    • All necessary trekking permits for Shey Phoksundo National Park, TIMS cards, etc.
    • Return flights to and from Kathmandu (Nepalgunj) and Nepalgunj (Jupal)
    • All accommodation during the trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • A cup of tea or coffee with the meal
    • If and when available, fresh fruit should be eaten every day
    • Complimentary duffel bag or agency T-shirt, trekking map, sleeping bag
    • Professional English-speaking government-registered and first-aid trained local guide
    • First-aid kit
    • Staff insurance, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
    • Rescue arrangements, if necessary
    • Agency service charge and government tax or VAT
    • Certificate of Achievement
    Cost Excludes
    • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft, etc.
    • Sightseeing costs (temples, monasteries entrance fee, etc.)
    • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, WiFi, etc.
    • Tip for staff
    Dates & Availability
    Start:MondayMar 25, 2024
    End:WednesdayApr 10, 2024
    PriceUS$2390
    StatusGuaranteed

    Note

    Are you satisfied with the fixed departure dates? If not, do not worry! We are more than happy to organize private vs. group joining on any dates you prefer. Let's contact the local experts now.

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