Lower Dolpa Trek

5.0
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destination
Dolpo Region
duration 18 days
maximum altitude 4200m
trip difficulty moderate
total cost $3350
Travel Styles
Trekking Off The Tourist Trail
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Lower Dolpa Trek

Dolpo region is one of the most fascinating destinations, as it possesses a rich culture, ethnic diversity, and natural landscapes. It is distinctly categorized as Upper Dolpo and Inner Dolpo. Since 1989 A.D, the potential of this region came to light, as the government permitted the arrival of foreigners to trek. Since the country itself is very rich in giant mountains and lakes, the Dolpo region too consists of oligotrophic Lake Shey Phoksundo and offers unbelievable sights of the enormous peaks like Dhaulagiri, Kanjiroba, Araniko Chuli, Mukot Himal, etc. The area located in the central west of Nepal is the Shey-Phoksundo National Park. Lower Dolpa offers an off-the-beaten trek with a flight to Juphal and on to the Phoksundo National Park which covers an area of 3555 sq. km. This trek gives you a wonderful chance to experience a landscape and culture far different from that seen in other parts of Nepal. It is the least complicated trek to undertake, and one of the most popular treks in the west of Nepal. This remote and rugged protected area is attractive both scenically and culturally. No high Himalayan peaks can be seen but expect to see a lot of good high altitude scenery, clear and pristine water of Phoksundo Lake.

This region is very famous for the cultivation of exotic medicinal herbs given the suitable climate and land formation. The scattered forests of Pine, Oak, Birches, Cypress, Walnut, Bamboo, and Maple can be seen in this region. Dolpo is found to be a primal habitat for the Snow leopard, Sheep, Goral, Musk Deer, Wild Dog, Wolf, Marmot, Weasel, Mouse hare, Rhesus, Langur, Himalayan Thar, Leopard, Jackal, Himalayan Black Bear, Yellow-throated Marten & various other species of birds. From the beginning till the end of the trekking, one will be mesmerized by the various features that Dolpo has to offer starting from the distinct beautiful lands to the high passes. Dolpo is home to various ethnic groups namely Hindu, Buddhist, Shaman, and Bonpo. Throughout the trek, you will witness a different simplistic lifestyle with strong beliefs and minimalistic desires to be content with what Dolpo has provided for the community. 

 

Highlights of the trek:

  • Explore one of the most untouched lands of Nepal and get to know more about Nepal other than just the Himalayas.
  • Get your mind-blown by the pristine and crystal clear Shey Phoksundo Lake which falls under the prestigious Ramsar site list. 
  • Roam around the largest National Park of Nepal (Shey Phoksundo National Park) and catch glimpses of the impressive biology of the area. 
  • Live your lives for a while in an isolated yet hospitable community of indigenous people of the Upper Dolpo region. 

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Accommodation Include Package
  • Three Night Hotel in Kathmandu
  • One Night Hotel In Nepalganja 
  • Lodge,TeaHouse , Tent Camp During the Trek
Meals Include In Package
  • BreakFast In Kathmandu
  • Breakfast Included  In Nepalganja 
  • Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner During the Trek
Best Season For Travel
  • Autumn (September-November)
  • Spring (March-May)

 
Group Size For This trip
  • Minimum Pax for trip #2 Person
  • Maximum Pax for trip #15 person
Lower Dolpa Trek

Pemba Sherpa

Trip Coordinator

itinerary

itinerary

  • Our representative will pick you up from the airport after your landing and escort you to the Hotel.
  • You can complete the checking-in procedure and enjoy a night’s rest.
For Meals
  • Breakfast Included
For Accommodation
  • Hotel /Lodge
Altitude
  • 1400m

  • Take a domestic air carrier from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj.
  • Nepalgunj is a town in the western Terai, is very close to the Indian border and the Bardia National Park, and is an important transportation hub to travel to western, mid-western, and far-western regions of Nepal.
  • Overnight in Nepalgunj.
For Meals
  • Breakfast Included
For Accommodation
  • Hotel/ Lodge
Altitude
  • 150m

  • Take an early 35 minutes flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal Airport in Dolpa.
  • Embark on our first trek from Juphal by descending through the local villages alongside the river base and pass Roop Ghar, reaching Dunai.
  • Overnight in Dunai (in tented camp).
For Meals
  • Included BLD
For Accommodation
  • Hotel/ lodge
Altitude
  • 2150m

  • Take an uphill climb alongside the Bheri River to reach the settlement of Byasghar (2430m).
  • Exit Byasghar and trek north-east in the riverside trail until reaching Baijibara. This small settlement holds a Bon Monastery.
  • Trek further uphill until reaching the famous mid-hill settlement of Tarakot.
  • Tarakot was a famous trading point nestling above the Thulo Bheri River and was the capital of the ancient independent Kingdom of Tichorung.
  • Overnight in Tarakot (in tented camp).
For Meals
  • Included BLD
For Accommodation
  • TeaHoues
Altitude
  • 2540m

  • Our trek begins along the trail that lies on the southern bank of the Bheri River until we reach the open valley created by Bharbung Khola.
  • Head east along the bank of Bharbung Khola which brings us closer to peaks like Putha Huinchuli and Churen Himal. Continue further to reach Laisicap (2775m).
  • Cross the main river and continue to trek along the west bank of Tarap Khola. Head north towards Kanigaon (2950m). Catch the wonderful site of the Sandul Gompa across the valley from Kanigaon.
  • The final push on an uphill trail will take us to Laini Odar which is a wonderful camping site with a roaring waterfall nearby.
  • Overnight in Laini Odar (in tented camp).
For Meals
  • Included BLD
For Accommodation

Tea House 
Altitude
  • 3375m

  • Traverse through deep gorges from Laini Odar and after a couple of hours to the north, the trail begins to widen where we march forward in a trail paved with wooden planks and flat stones that leads us to Chhyugar (3440m).
  • Chhyugar lies at the bank of a small stream which we cross and begin to trek along its western bank to Pibke or Nawarpani (3475m).
  • The final couple hours of the trek will bring us to the settlement of Toltol. Toltol is a winter refuge for the people of Upper Dolpo.
  • Overnight in Toltol (in a tented camp).
For Meals
  • Included BLD
For Accommodation
  • Tea House
Altitude
  • 3530m

  • Today’s trek runs along the bank of Tarap Khola switching sides frequently. On the first part of the trek, we hike along the northwest bank of Tarap Khola to Ghyamghar, a small settlement with a monastery.
  • Cross the river and begin to trek along the eastern bank to Sisaul where we cross the river again to its western bank and hike along the lonely valley.
  • Arrive in Langa and cross the river again for the last time to follow its eastern bank and climb a small arid hill.
  • Descend from the hill to the lovely Dho Tarap settlement. This famous settlement of Dolpo nestles high above a wide valley and was a famous trading point to the traders of Tibet and Mustang in the ancient days.
For Meals
  • Included BLD
For Accommodation
  • Tea House
Altitude
  • 3950m

  • Acclimatization day in Dho Tarap to ready your body at the high altitude and take a much-needed rest following the tiring trek.
  • Hike around the Dho Tarap to acclimatize better before climbing elevated passes like Numa La and Baga La.
  • Visit the highland settlement of Dho Tarap, some of the most sacred monasteries like Ribo Bumpa Monastery, Bumpa Monastery, Kakar Labrang Monastery, Mekhyim Monastery, Dhoro Monastery, and a Bon Gompa of Shipichowk.
  • Overnight in Dho Tarap (in a tented camp).
For Meals
  • Included BLD
For Accommodation
  • Tea House

  • Begin the trek along a gentle uphill trail from Dho Tarap and after an hour of the uphill climb, reach Crystal Mountain School and Health Post.
  • Trek along an easy trail en route to Numa La Base Camp and reach Tokyu (4209m). The authentically traditional-looking village, Tokyu is a widespread village with graceful Kani gait and old-fashioned houses.
  • Tokyu is also a delightful place for a photographer in the bright sunlight.
  • Cross the river beyond the trail of Tokyu to Kanger and in the northwest direction of the main trail, we see the dramatic views of Shering Gompa which is the house for the monks in the region.
  • The comfortable trail ends here as we begin to slide up along the wild and barren rugged trail to the Base Camp of Numa La.
  • Overnight in Numa La Base Camp (in tented camp).
For Meals
  • Included BLD
For Accommodation
  • Tea House
Altitude
  • 4350m

  • Today’s trek is going to be strenuous as the Numa La Pass will test the endurance of the trekker to an extreme. The trek chases the trail that climbs up to an endless ridge top. The path itself is difficult as the trail gains elevation in already rugged terrain.
  • However, the demanding trek also rewards the majestic views of Mt. Dhaulagiri and Churen Himal. Also, the view of fantastic snow capped peak Norbung Kang dominates the trail.
  • After the tiring yet rewarding trek to the top of the Numa La Pass, it becomes relatively easy. We follow the path towards the Gyambo Khola and finally slip into the beautiful meadow of Danighar.
  • Overnight in Danighar (in a tented camp).
For Meals
  • Included BLD
For Accommodation
  • Tea House
Altitude
  • 4510m to 5310m

  • The day’s trek begins with a vertical uphill climb along with the shabby Yak trail.
  • The trail to Baga La Pass gains elevation rapidly. The elevation of 600m is gained so rapidly that this part of the trek demands extra effort.
  • After scaling to the top of the pass, sacred Chortens starts to appear along with the fascinating view of Norbung Lang Peak. The view from its top is one of the most beautiful in the entire Phoksundo Nature Experience Trek.
  • Descend from the pass to a deep ravine and cross the frozen stream to an open space and trek a bit further to reach Temche.
  • Overnight in Temche (in a tented camp).
For Meals
  • Included BLD
For Accommodation
  • Tea House
Altitude
  • 4000m to 5170m

  • Begin our trek by descending from Temche towards Yak Kharka. At Yak Kharka, the trail branches into two. One trail drops towards Maduwa whereas the one we take will take us to Ringmo.
  • The trail to Ringmo penetrates the lush vegetation of Pines, Junipers, and Cypress. This part of the trek offers stunning views of towering cliffs throughout the trek. Passing the highest waterfall in Nepal on the right, the trail finally stretches to Ringmo, a famous Bon settlement in the region.
  • Trek further for about half an hour from Ringmo to reach a breathtakingly beautiful lake, Shey Phoksundo.
  • Overnight camp besides Shey Phoksundo.
For Meals
  • Included BLD
For Accommodation
  • Tea House
Altitude
  • 3600m to 4018m

  • Today you can explore the gorgeous lake and the immense natural beauty surrounding the lake.
  • First, we will visit the Ringmo Village and head to Tshowa (the lake-shore Bon Monastery). The Gompa nestling a ridge top above Phoksundo Lake was built about 900 years ago.
  • Drop down to Phoksundo Lake along steep-sided cliffs and enjoy the majestic turquoise-colored lake and the serenity of the surrounding.
  • Explore the nearby glaciers, monasteries, and biodiversity of the park.
  • Overnight in Phoksundo (in a tented camp).
For Meals
  • Included BLD
For Accommodation
  • Tea House

  • Begin our hike alongside the trail of the riverside and climb an uphill trail for about an hour to reach the top of the trail where the river starts to diminish in size.
  • The spectacular view of the Phoksundo Lake from the top is as glistening as ever.
  • Descend from the path to reach Chunuwar. Trek through the green and lush forest of Birch and Pine in Chunuwar to reach Rechi.
  • Series of gentle ups and downs along the trail beside a river will appear and after overcoming the trail, reach Chhepka.
  • Overnight in Chhepka (in a tented camp).
For Meals
  • Included BLD
For Accommodation
  • Tea House
Altitude
  • 2520m

  • Trek for an hour to reach Shyanta and further trekking for another hour to reach Kagbeni.
  • Trek through a wonderful rocky landscape to the checkpoint of Shey Phoksundo National Park. Cross a suspension bridge over Dhim Khola and trek towards the west to Juphal.
  • The easiest walk of the entire trek starts after crossing the bridge. A delightful couple of hours of hiking through beautiful fields of Barley and Wheat, surrounded by strong trees that include Walnut, Peach, and Apricot, and a small uphill climb will take you to Juphal.
  • Overnight in Juphal (in a tented camp).
For Meals
  • Included BLD
For Accommodation
  • Tea House

  • Take an early flight to Nepalgunj. Roam for a bit in the town of Nepalgunj and catch another flight in the afternoon to Kathmandu.
  • Overnight in Kathmandu.
For Meals
  • Included BLD
For Accommodation
  • Tea House

  • Our representative will pick you up from your hotel (approximately three hours prior to your scheduled flight) for you departure.
For Meals
  • Included BLD
For Accommodation
  • Tea House

gear list

Adventurous activities are always filled with adrenaline and risks. Here are some mandatory tools and equipments to keep you safe and necessary for the trip.

  • Walking T-shirt(2): Merino wool, Capilene/Synthetic Fiber for quick dry.
  • Sleeping t-shirt(1): can be cotton or fabric.
  • Thermal base layers Top(1): mid weighted long sleeved t-shirt of merino wool/polyester, capilene power dry.
  • Insulating layers(1): mid weighted fleece that can be worn over other layers
  • Fleece Vest(optional): advisable for those who catches cold easily.
  • Rain jacket (1): Wind proof and rain proof for safeguard.
  • Down jacket(1): very essential for trekking above 4,000 meters.
  • Hiking trousers(2): lick weighted and quick dry trousers( not cotton).Zip offs are preferred.
  • Sleeping trousers(1): light weighted yoga style for comfort sleep( no jeans).
  • Trekking short (1): in case of no zips off trousers. Low knee shorts are preferred.
  • Rain pants(1): Protection from rain and wind.
  • Thermal long Johns(1): To warm by in the evening or while sleeping.
  • Underwear: Depending on necessity; enough for trek ( can be washed and dried along the way)

includes

  • Airport pickups & transfer 
  • Accommodation(BB) in Kathmandu & Nepalgunj
  • Meals during the trek.
  • Tented accommodation during the trek.
  • English speaking & government licensed guide
  • Cook & porter service(1 porter for 2 peoples)
  • Camping equipment 
  • Domestic flights 
  • Dolpo Restricted Area Permit.
  • TIMS card
  • Ground transportation as per the itinerary 
  • First Aid Kit 
  • Office Service charge.
  • All Local & Government Tax.

excludes

  • Meals in Kathmandu & Nepalgunj 
  • Travel insurance 
  • International airfare 
  • Nepal Tourist Visa fee.
  • Personal items and expenses 
  • Drinks
  • Personal Trekking Equipment 
  • Emergency Evacuation
  • Horse renting 
  • Tips for staffs: guide & porter

Some Glimpse

The Journey and the adventure has to end someday but the memories stay. Here are some of our favorite moments from previous travel experiences.

Map

FAQs

Lower Dolpa trek takes you at the height of 4,200 meters from sea level.

In context to the level of difficulty, the Lower Dolpa trek is a short moderate level trek. The maximum walking hour of this trek is about 7-8 hours a day.  

Soul Himalaya Treks & Tours has well-experienced and certified guides/leaders with over 10 years of working experience in the field. All our guides are fluent in English. You can also hire guides who are fluent in French, German, and Hindi.

Everest is situated towards the eastern part whereas Lower Dolpa is situated towards the western part of the Himalayan range. Therefore, you will not be able to view Mt. Everest from Lower Dolpa. So far, you will be able to have a beautiful scenario of mount Dhaulagiri, Kanjiroba, and various other Himalayan Ranges.

The weather differs with the season you choose to trek for. The maximum temperature reaches 25°C during the day and falls up to -20°C at night. Observing the overall trekking climate, the weather of Lower Dolpa is mild during the trekking seasons. Yet, the weather of the lower region is hotter than that of higher altitudes.  

Altitude sickness is predictable if you are at a High altitude for the first time. However, Altitude sickness can be coped with easily since there are no major risks of it. Our itinerary is maintained in such a way that you will adapt to the altitude of this region easily. Your assigned guide/leader will slow down ascend and provide you healthy diet. You also require to be hydrated throughout the trek and avoid the consumption of alcohol/cigarettes. Most importantly, you should build a strong mindset and be prepared for the trek.

We strongly recommend you carry a reusable bottle along with water purifying tablets and agents to purify stream water. Waste disposal is not well organized in the Mountains so to maintain an environment-friendly trek we appreciate it if you can make minimum use of plastic bottles. However, if make you use plastic bottles we request you dispose of the bottles at a proper place. 

Proper shower is managed for you throughout the trek. Hot /Bucket shower is made accessible in the lodges. However, a certain amount of charge for the hot/bucket shower is taken in some of the lodges.  While taking showers in the natural sources, you are sincerely requested to slip into comfortable clothes to uphold social values in public space.

You will be able to recharge your gadgets in pretty much every cabin and hotel. However, at a higher altitude you will be charged with a certain amount; probably from 200 to 300 NRS (1.5 - 2, 5 €).

The organization isn't great always, and in some cases it is inexistent. You’d rather not rely on the network in some areas. However, you will have Wi-Fi in few lodges; not necessarily all of them but some lodges charge you extra for Wi-Fi.

We assure you a secured trek. Even so, we never can predict what might take place. Hence, in case of any emergencies, you will be rescued by air ambulance as long as the weather is favorable for evacuation.  

You are strongly prohibited from distributing any kind of stuff to children on the way to your trek. Children stay on roads for hours waiting for tourists rather than attending schools. Hence, this has created a very bad influence on the children in the tourism areas. If you are genuinely intending to help them you can consult with respective guardians.

The people of Nepal are very religious. Hence, when you are visiting the historical and religious area in Nepal especially monasteries; you are not allowed to sit/stand on the tables since the tables are marked very scared.

You can observe many street dogs in Nepal. So, you should be aware before you approach any of them as they are not well-vaccinated. If you are followed by a pet during your trek we suggest you not take them along with you.

You will not be allowed to take a snap of any individuals without their approval. In some specific monasteries, you are forbidden to carry a camera. However, you can freely capture the image of glamorous nature. 

Tipping is not mandatory. However, it has been a common trait, so the guides and porters expect a small amount of tips from you. A small amount of tips can hold a great essence in their life and can go a long way to help them and their families. Feel free to ask us for a suggested standard amount.  

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