Lower Dolpo Trek

The Lower Dolpo Trek is a classic trek to the sacred high-altitude Buddhist monastery of Dolpa, offering stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mukut Himal. The Lower Dolpo Trek is a beautiful and remote trek in the western region of Nepal, which takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Dolpo region.

The duration of the trek is typically around 21-25 days, depending on the route and the pace of the trekker. Lower Dolpo Trek is considered to be a challenging trek, and it is recommended for trekkers with good physical fitness and some prior trekking experience. The highest altitude the trekkers trek is at Numala Pass at a height of 5,238 meters. and the best season to trek through the Lower Dolpo is from March to May and from September to November.

Dolpo or Dolpa is the largest district in Nepal. It’s pristine natural beauty in remote hills and mountains. In Lower Dolpo Trek, you will explore the remotest off-the-beaten-path parts of the country.   The main attraction of this trek is Phoksundo Lak, the deepest in the country.   Most of the trail passes through Shey-Phoksundo National Park.

The Lower Dolpo Trek is rich in various species of flora and fauna, including Rhododendrons and the endangered snow leopard.   You'll observe many landscapes and cross-high passes, such as Baga La and Numa La.  Dolpa is one of the few areas inhabited by Bon Po Buddhists of Tibetan origin.  The trek passes through a variety of landscapes, including high-altitude plateaus, forests, and villages, and offers views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges.

The trek can be done independently or with a guide, and the cost can vary depending on the route and the services included. It is important to be properly prepared for the trek, including packing appropriately and acclimatizing to the altitude before the trek.

Start/Finish

Destination

Grade

Max Altitude

Nepalgunj & Juphal

Nepal

Challenging

5,238 meters

Region

Stay

Group Size

Season

Dolpo Region

20 Days and 19 Nights

2-12

March-May, September-November

Highlights

  • Hiking through a variety of landscapes, including high altitude plateaus, forests, and villages .
  • Use hidden trails used by locals.
  • Cross-high passes such as Numa La Pass (5310m) and Baga La Pass (5170m).
  • Visit Shey Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake in the country.
  • Visiting the Shey Phoksundo National Park, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including blue sheep, Himalayan black bear, and musk deer.
  • Enjoying views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, as well as other peaks such as Churen Himal, Kanjiroba Himal, and Kanti Himal.
  • Visiting monasteries and temples, such as the Thasang Monastery and the Bon Po Temple, which offer a glimpse into the spiritual practices of the region.

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Suggested Itinerary

View Detailed Itinerary
Days
Description
Altitude
Hours
01
Arrival in Kathmandu
1,380 meters
02
Flight to Nepalgunj
150 meters
45 minutes
03
Flight to Juphal and Trek to Dunai
2,140 meters
35 minutes
04
Trek from Dunai to Tarakot
2,543 meters
6-7 hours
05
Trek to Laini Odar
3,370 meters
6- 7 hours
06
Trek to Nawar Pani
3,475 meters
7-8 hours
07
Trek to Dho
4,090 meters
7-8 hours
08
Explore Dho Village
09
Trek to Numala Phedi
4,440 meters
6- 7 hours
10
Trek to Dani gar crossing Numala Pass
5,238 meters
8-9 hours
11
Trek to Yak Kharka via Bagala Pass
5,214 meters
7-8 hours
12
Trek to Phoksundo
3,600 meters
4-5 hours
13
Free day in Phoksundo
14
Trek to Chhekpa
2,838 meters
7-8 hours
15
Trek to Rupghat Bridge village
2,075 meters
5-6 hours
16
Trek to Juphal
2,475 meters
4-5 hours
17
Fly to Nepalgunj and Fly to Kathmandu
18
Kathmandu Free day
19
Kathmandu Free day or shopping
20
Departure to airport

Trip Includes

✔️     Standard accommodation in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj
✔️     Camping Equipment
✔️     Domestic flight
✔️     Guide and Trekking Staff
✔️     All ground transportation as per itinerary
✔️     Meal During the trek
✔️     All permits ( special permits, National park, Conversation area)

Practical Information

Lower Dolpo is one of the country's most remote areas, with few teahouses. So, you get a basic room in a teahouse. Most of the stays are in tent camps. Food in Lower Dolpa is mostly traditional, but western food is also available. The food is served in the teahouse Dal bhat. You can expect Tibetan foods on the menu. Most toilets have squat toilets without toilet paper and other necessities.

The trail is long and difficult. Trekking enthusiasts will have a great time. However, it is quite unsuitable for beginners. The best seasons for this trek are the Spring season from March to May and the Autumn season from September to November. Daytime temperatures are stable at this time of the year, and the clear blue skies and mountain views are astonishing. Rhododendron flowers bloom best during these seasons. Lower Dolpo Trek is not recommended in winter.

The Lower Dolpo Trekking is one of Nepal's most challenging remote treks. The hiking takes 5 to 7 hours a day. Trekking routes include long ascents/descents, passes over 5000 m, and long trekking days on a rocky trail. Therefore, acclimatization is highly recommended. You do not need prior trekking experience, but you must be in good physical condition.

Altitude sickness is common on theLower Dolpo Trek due to the remote location, high-altitude hikes, and arid landscapes. So, to avoid that, take your time and drink plenty of water. Do not consume alcohol, and don't smoke. Let your guide know if you have any symptoms of altitude sickness. Primary medical care is available at some health posts. Return to Nepalgunj or Kathmandu for medical care if needed. It is advisable to have a first aid kit and necessary medicines on hand.



FAQs

The duration of the trek can vary depending on the route and the pace of the trekker, but it typically takes around 21-25 days to complete.

The best time to do the Lower Dolpo Trek is during the peak trekking seasons of Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November), when the weather is clear and the skies are generally free of clouds, offering excellent views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

The Lower Dolpo Trek is considered to be a challenging trek, and it is recommended for trekkers with good physical fitness and some prior trekking experience. The trek involves some steep and strenuous sections, as well as long days of hiking over rough terrain.

The maximum altitude reached during the Lower Dolpo Trek is around 5,180 meters at the Numa La Pass.

While it is required to have a guide for the Lower Dolpo Trek because of restricted area. A guide is familiar with the route, can provide valuable information about the local culture and history of the region, and can help you to prepare for any unexpected challenges that may arise during the trek.

You can expect to stay in a combination of lodges, guesthouses, and tent camping. These accommodations are often basic, with shared bathroom facilities and simple meals available. It is important to note that the trek passes through remote areas, so you should expect the facilities to be relatively basic compared to those found in more developed areas.Our itinerary is based on Camping Trek. So mostly we will have tent during the Trek.

The Lower Dolpo Trek is considered to be moderate to challenging, and may not be suitable for beginners. It involves long days of trekking over rough terrain, and some sections of the trek may be physically demanding. It is important to be in good physical condition before attempting this trek.

You should bring clothing and equipment suitable for cold and wet weather, as well as sun protection. You should also bring a first aid kit, a water purification system, and enough cash to cover any additional expenses. It is also a good idea to bring some snacks and energy bars to eat during the trek.

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