Lower Dolpo Trek is one of the most stirring and inspiring treks situated in the western hills of Nepal, which gives the trekkers to experience the real ventures of trekking on an off-the-beaten path, tranquil of steep sloppy hills. Lower Dolpo Trek is packed with improbable gifts of nature, including Shey Phoksundo Lake and also dues of the pre-Buddhism Bon Po culture.

Dolpo Region Trekking is least preferred trekking in Nepal as compared to Everest Region Trekking and Annapurna Region Trekking due to its remoteness. But, the trekking to Dolpo offers magnificent views that are enough to captivate everyone trekking in Dolpo Region.

Highlights of Lower Dolpo Trek

The sightseeing tour around the heritage sites of Kathmandu prior to the trek.
The diverse culture of Dolpo; Juphal, the trek starting point caters the culture of KhasAryas, gaining elevation the trek enters the villages of ethnical tribe Magars and at DhoTarap, the ancient trading point in Dolpo trekkers get to see the culture of Bhotiyas.
The landscapes that vary tremendously; the lower section of the trek is lush vegetation dominated by tropical and low alpine woodlands of SheyPhoksundo National Park, the upper section of the trek at times is dominated by Tibetan like landscapes, which is barren yet beautiful at the foothills of Mt. Kanjiroba and Dhaulagiri.
The Bon Culture and Bon Monasteries in the villages like Ringmo. Bon is the Buddhism prior to Buddha.
The culture of Tibetan Buddhism with beautiful myths attached to them and the nomadic lifestyle of the people of Dolpo, who centuries ago fled to Nepalese land from Tibet.
The magnificence of Phoksundo Lake, which manifests its unique features and camping at its shore is probably the biggest sensation of tranquility.
Crossing over the challenging two 5000m plus passes Numa La and Baga La.
The floral and faunal biodiversity of SheyPhoksundo National Park, which is known for housing elusive cat, the snow leopard

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Faqs

Trip Info

Review

The 17-day Lower Dolpo Trek starts from a flight from Kathmandu to Juphal via Nepalgunj. Juphal is the initial point for this trek. Lower Dolpo Trek move through semi-desert region combined with compactly forested path filled with pine, rhododendrons, bamboo, and juniper trees along with trails made up of huge pastures, brown landscape, and ridged colorful fields. Gratifying the stunning rain shadow landscape of the Himalayas, you also enter the beautiful Shey Phoksundo National Park, colonized by endangered animals like snow leopard, Himalayan musk deer, blue sheep, and so on. The trekkers also navigate through two high passes; Numa La (5360m), the highest point of the trek, and Baga La (5070m). Both these passes offer astonishing views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m) and the Tibetan ranges—Kugung La and Khyung La. During summer, we can see the convoys of yaks and sheep heading towards their destination. Another acme of the includes the primeval Lower Dolpo Trek turquoises Phoksundo Lake, split between rocks that rise 2000m into the clear mountain skies. The Dolpo region is dominated by Tibetan and Magar people who still practice the pre-Buddhist Bon Po religion. The Lower Dolpo Trek also includes visits to the prehistoric monasteries (gompas) and Bon Po shrines contiguous the Phoksundo Lake. All in all, Trekking to Lower Dolpo is ideal for those trekkers who love wild quests.

Outline Itinerary

Day	Program	Elevation
1	Arrival to TIA airport. Pick up from there then check in to hotel in Kathmandu Upon arrival in Kathmandu.	1440m
2	Permit procedure and Kathmandu- Nepalgunj by flight and transfer to hotel	150m
3	Fly Nepalgunj- Juphal / Trek Juphal- Dunai	2150m
4	Trek from Dunai to Tarakot	2540m
5	Trek from Tarakot to Laina Odar	3375m
6	Trek from Laina Odar to Nawarpani to Toltol
7	Trek from Toltol to Dho Tarap	3950m
8	Excursion around Dho Tarap for acclimatization
9	Trek from Dho Tarap of Numa La Base Camp , 4-5 hrs	4350m
10	Trek from Numa La Pass to Danighar via Numa La Pass, 6-7 hrs	4510m-5310m
11	Trek from Danighar to Temche via Baga La Pass, 5-6 hrs	400m-5170m
12	Trek from Yak Kharka to Phoksundo	3600m
13	Explore around Phoksundo Lake	11849ft
14	Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Chhepka 6 hrs
15	Trek from Chhepka to Juphal 6 hrs
16	Juphal- Fly to Nepalgunj —afternoon flight back to Kathmandu	150m
17	Depart from Kathmandu

Day 1 :

Arrival to TIA airport. Pick up from there then check in to hotel in Kathmandu Upon arrival in Kathmandu.

When you arrive in Kathmandu airport, our agency representative will be waiting for you in the airport holding our company and your name play card. From airport our agency representative will escort you to the hotel. After you check in to the hotel, you will rest and fed your flight sickness till next day.

Day 2 :

Permit procedure and Kathmandu- Nepalgunj by flight and transfer to hotel

From Kathmandu we fly to Nepalgunj enjoying scenic views throughout the flight. Nepalgunj is an important business center for many regions as it is located in the western part of Nepal, near the Indian Border. Later in the evening, we can stroll around the busy markets of Nepalgunj. Here we will have the night stay.

Day 3 :

Fly Nepalgunj- Juphal / Trek Juphal- Dunai (2150 m)

After the night at Nepalgunjwe will again catch a 35-minute long flight to Juphal from Nepalgunj. As we land in the Juphal, our trekking journey starts. We descend through local villages and terraced fields to the Bheri River. The trail continues by the riverside and passes by the RoopGhar with water mill to finally arrive in the village of Dunai. Today we will have overnight in lodge of Dunai.

Day 4 :

Trek from Dunai to Tarakot 2540 m 5-6 hrs

Today we trek to Tarakot following the upstream trail that banks Bheri River. We trek along the leveled path filled with beautiful landscapes in the background to reach Tarakot. We also come across deep gorges, hanging bridges, and isolated villages as we climb over the hill. As we continue to trek further, we are greeted with dry stones and cultivating colorful terraced field of Tarakot, which is an old fortress town located on a hillock to the south of Bheri River. Today we will have overnight in lodge of Tarakot.

Day 5 :

Trek from Tarakot to Laina Odar 3375m 4-5 hrs

After the night stay at Tarakot, we will follow the trail on the southern bank of Bheri River that leads us to the open valley. We now follow the flow of TarapKhola and head north to Khanigaon which offers the wonderful view of SandulGompa across the valley. Relishing the view of PuthaHiunchuli (7246) and ChurenHimal Range, we make a final ascend on the steep trail to reach LainaOdar. Today we will have overnight in lodge of LainaOdar.

Day 6 :

Trek from Laina Odar to Nawarpani to Toltol

We will trek for 5 hours to reach Nawarpani. 500m ascent and 60m descent, then we will reach this beautiful civilization of Nawarpani. We will continue for 50 minutes up the steep hill. The trek then makes a drastic and highly enjoyable traverse through a gorge so steep that you can’t even see the river. We will cross an exciting suspension bridge over ChayaKhola to reach Nawarpani.

Day 7 :

Trek from Toltol to Dho Tarap 3950 m 6-7 hrs

We will ascend to Charkala (4,920m) and then descend down the side of the valley. The trial then climbs to crest and descend to the dwindling river. The valley becomes narrower. On reaching Do Tarap we will take a good rest and spend the night in a tea house.

Day 8 :

Excursion around Dho Tarap for acclimatization

To adjust with the thinning air, we take a day off from trekking and spend a day exploring DhoTarap. We spend the rest of the day visiting the monasteries near the area and take an opportunity to learn and understand the local culture, their tradition, and lifestyle. The people of Dolpo wear homespun clothing and prefer Tibetan style somba (boots with upturned toes) for shoes. Most people here follow Bon-Po and Nyigmapa religion. We will have overnight at DhoTarap.

Day 9 :

Trek from Dho Tarap of Numa La Base Camp 4350 m 4-5 hrs

We will follow the trial leading us to Numla La Base Camp. We continue to ascend up the northern valley in the Himalayan Desert. Beautiful view of the snowcapped mountains will keep us refreshed throughout the trek. Today we will spend night at camp.

Day 10 :

Trek from Numa La Pass to Danighar 4510m via Numa La Pass 5310m 6-7 hrs

We will cross the most anticipated Num La Pass on the twelfth day. It is quite hard compared to the rest of the journey. The trial will lead to steep climb all the way to the top ridge of Num La that offers great view of surrounding mountains. It will take us around 7 hours. We will come down to Pelung Tang to spend the night in an overnight camp. Today we will have Overnight at tented camp.

Day 11 :

Trek from Danighar to Temche 4000m via Baga La Pass 5170 m 5-6 hrs

Leaving behind Danighar, we head towards Temche via another pass, Baga La (5170m). We make a steep ascent along the shabby yak trail. As we move higher, we might require extra efforts due to rapid gain in elevation. The top of the pass offers sacred Chortens with a majestic view of Norbung Kang (6085m) and other peaks along with the mesmerizing Phoksundo Lake. We then descend to a deep ravine and cross a frozen stream to reach Temche. Today we will have Overnight at tented camp.

Day 12 :

Trek from Yak Kharka to Phoksundo 3600m

We descend to Yak Kharka from Temche at first and then ascend to the village of Ringmo passing through the forested path full of lush vegetation of oaks, pines, junipers, and cypress. Accompanied by the amazing view of towering cliffs and a large waterfall, we make our way to Ringmo village, which is a famous Bon settlement in Dolpo region. A short walk from Ringmo leads us to the beautiful Phoksundo Lake. Today we will have Overnight at tented camp..

Day 13 :

Explore around Phoksundo Lake

We take another day off from trekking and utilize this day to explore Phoksundo Lake and Ringmo village. Phoksundo Lake is a beautiful turquoise color lake which is also considered the deepest lake in Nepal. We can get the scenic view of Ringmo village from the Lake. We explore nearby the Ringmo village and go to visit Tshowa (Bon Monastery), built 900 years ago. We also come across many beautiful glaciers above the lake area. Today we will have Overnight at tented camp.

Day 14 :

Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Chhepka 6 hrs

We will now descend to Chhepka leaving the beautiful mountains in the backdrop. We will follow the stream going south and cross a beautiful forest to reach Chhepka where we will spend the night.

Day 15 :

Trek from Chhepka to Juphal 6 hrs

FromChhepka, we will head towards Juphal passing through the village of Shyanta and Kageni. From Shyanta, we will trek through a forested path that leads us to the check post of SheyPhoksundo National Park. We will then cross the metal suspension bridge over DhimKhola and make our way to Juphal, trekking along the narrow path and beautiful fields of barley and wheat. Today we will have overnight in lodge ofJuphal.

Day 16 :

Juphal- Fly to Nepalgunj —afternoon flight back to Kathmandu

We catch an early morning scenic flight to Nepalgunj from Juphal. Upon reaching Nepalgunj, we catch our next flight back to Kathmandu. We transfer you to the hotel in Kathmandu and give the rest of the day to yourself to relax and rest. Later in the evening, you can try out the local eateries in the capital city. Today we will rest at night at the hotel of Kathmandu.

Day 17 :

Depart from Kathmandu

The journey comes to an end today! A representative from Nepal Trekking in Himalayas will drop us off at the airport approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight.

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1. How difficult are the treks?

It depends on the individuals’ adaptation of walking in any situation and at any circumstances. It depends on the location and choice of trekkers. Both difficult as well as easy treks are available. Difficulty of the treks depends on the region of the trek and duration of it. Shorter treks tend to be easier while longer ones require some physical fitness.

2. How safe Women traveling alone with your company?

Completely, we assure the safety and security of the women travelling with us. We will provide the privacy that the women need. We will also give you a personal room on lodge and personal tent for camping while trekking.

3. What is tea house trekking?

Tea House Trek – is a trek during which at the end of each trekking day you stay for overnight in Tea Houses. “Trekking Guide Team Adventure” also organizes Camping Treks during which you stay for overnight in tents which our guides will set up for you and food during such treks will be cooked by our experienced cook.

4. Can I get Nepal visa on arrival?

Yes, you can get it in Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. As you arrive to airport fill the form and proceed to the visa line. You have to pay 25US$ for 15 days of visa from the day of issue, 40US$ for 30days and 100US$ for 90 days of tourist visa. For this you have to bring two passport size photos.

5. What is the best air route to my destination?

There are enough airline companies operating daily flights from Middle East of Kathmandu. Kathmandu only has got only international airport in Nepal so, where ever you are coming from you must come through tribhuvan international airport.

6. What type of insurance should I have before come to Nepal? Can I get it there?

For coming to Nepal you should have both medical and Rescue evacuation insurance. Yes you can get it here too, but we recommend purchasing it in your own country to avoid any last minute hassle and basal.

7. When should I travel to Nepal?

In Nepal it rains a lot between Junes to August. You too can enjoy great treks during this period of year in rain shadow region. But if you planning for more popular trek autumn and spring is the best time. As during this period climate will be moderate and will favorable for the trekking.

8. What kinds of banking facilities in Nepal?

Nepal has modern banking facilities having branches of some international bank. Almost all foreign currency along with credit card such as American Express, Visa and Master card are accepted. Nepal also has ATM facilities.

9. When should I book my trip?

We suggest you to book your trip in advance to avoid the disappointment and hassles. We too will make an effort to accommodate last minute bookings but some time due to the last minute planning we may unintentionally make few mistake which may offend you so it will be better to do advance booking.

10. Is someone going to meet me at the airport? Are transfers included?

Yes, our agency representative will pick you from airport. We will be displaying our placard of your name with our agency name.

11. How much spending money should I bring?

This depends on the destination you will be at and package, facilities you may choose . However our trip profile will give you information about how to budget form additional meals, optional excursions and extra expenses that might occur in any specific trip.

12. Does your company help to arrange domestic flight, international flight, hotel bookings and other services?

Since we are Nepal based company we refer to arrange your international flights from your home town. But domestic flight ticket will be included in our package. Other help like river rafting, city guided tour, mountain flight, jungle safari will be provided according to your necessities.

13. What is the physical conditioning level needed for trekking?

If you are in good physical condition then you do not require any hiking experience for short trekking. But if you are planning for the longer ones then you should do long day hikes at your home.

14. Is a Trekking permit needed?

Permit is not required for trekking in Everest, Annapurna, Langtang and some other regions. However, conservation permits or National park permits are required. There are few restricted trekking areas in Nepal where trekking permits are required.

15. Are the food / water safe to eat / drink?

All the meals are prepared with high standards of hygiene, fruit and vegetables are soaked in iodine before preparation. Most of lodges serve boiled and filter water which is safe. It is also possible to buy the bottle of mineral water in the trek.

16. What happens if there is an emergency?

All of our guides are trained with first aid and have basic idea about the physical problems that may arise during trekking. If an emergency occur then we will cover initial expenses of rescue operation as these expenses will need to be recovered from your insurance company. For minor cases there are health posts established by foreign doctors and many are staffed by overseas personnel.

17. What are your payment terms?

You need to pay 30% of total price as advance deposit to conform reservation before arriving to Nepal. Rest of the payment can be paid after arrival.

18. Can we bring some food from home?

19. You can bring power bars, cereal bars and similar high energy foods, powder Gatorade is also recommended to fight dehydration.

20. Is there any communication when we are on the mountain?

In the way in many villages along the popular trekking routes you can find telephones from where you can make international calls. And now a days we have the internet facilities most of the trekking destination.

21. What’s the difference between trekking, hiking and mountain climbing?

You can do all day walk, where you stay overnight (or several nights) at three activities in Nepal, but they are quite different things. Trekking is a multi-the place you’ve walked to.
Hiking generally refers to a one-day walk. It might be two hours or eight, but if it takes place within a single day, it’ll probably be referred to as a hike.
Mountain climbing is another thing entirely. It takes special equipment, training and comes with more risk. Neither trekking nor hiking require any special skill, other than the ability to walk.

Permit & Entry Fees:

It is compulsory to pay Everest National Park entry fee and TIMS card to trek in this area.

Medical Support:

An emergency first aid kit is carried by the support staff at all times.

Accommodation and meals:

During tea house treks our guests pay for their food (breakfast/lunch/dinner) at the lodge while we provide guides/accommodation/necessary permit and transportation. It can be USD $25 per person each day for food (Lunch/dinner/breakfast)

Water:

Mineral waters are available at all stops during tea house treks. You can also use tap water if you choose to use water purification tablets.

Travel Insurance:

Travel Insurance is mandatory for all clients who choose to trek or climb with us. The insurance should cover you in case of emergencies like accidents, altitude sickness and ambulance and helicopter rescue charges if required. Please carry a copy of your insurance papers while travelling in Nepal and do send us a copy as well. This will help us in making all the necessary arrangements in case of any sort of emergencies.

Best Season for Everest Panorama View Trek

Spring : March – May
Summer: June – August
Autumn: September – November
Winter: December – February

While there are no seasonal constraints on traveling to Nepal, different regions are best visited in different seasons. Once you inquire about any trekking itinerary we’ll email you regarding the best season for that particular trek.

Check-list of personal equipment:

Good standard trekking boots
Camping shoes/thongs
Socks-polypropylene
Down Jacket
Fleece
T-shirts
Trekking trousers
Shorts (both casual and for treks)
Swim wear
Sun Hat
Woollen Hat
Nylon Windbreaker
Gloves
Gaters
Strong Rucksack
Sleeping Bag
Water Bottle
Torch/headlamp (with spare batteries)
Toiletries/soap
Toilet paper
Sun block
Travel Towel
Wet-wipes
Medication (cough medicine, throat soothers, water purification tablets)
Sunglasses
Binoculars
Camera & lenses
Memory cards
GPS Tracking Units may be helpful
Altimeter
Compass
Book/music player/pack of cards
Padlock
A plastic bag for waste
Energy/snack bars