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Lower Dolpo Trek

The Lower Dolpo Trek offers a remote trekking experience in the isolated region of far western Nepal. The main highlight of this trek is the gorgeous Shey Phoksundo Lake, which is located at an elevation of 3611 M above sea level. It also includes Shey-Phoksundo National Park, which is the largest National Park in Nepal. The Lower Dolpo region is regarded as one of the hidden treasures of Nepal because of its rich natural and cultural heritage. 

Duration
20 Days
Trip Grade
Strenuous
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
5309 M
Group Size
2-12
Starts
Juphal
Ends
Juphal
Activities
Trekking
Best Time
May -June, Sept - Oct

The 20-day Lower Dolpo Trek begins from Jhupal after taking 2 flights from Kathmandu via Nepalgunj. From here, you will begin trekking up to the Nawarpani village, going through several small villages and alpine forests, crossing numerous streams, and walking along the river. Further, passing by Dho Tarap, you will ascend to the Numala Base Camp. The trail then moves to Temche via Danigar. The next day, you will visit the sumptuous Shey Phoksundo Lake. On the way, you will get to see excellent views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 M), Mt. Annapurna (8091 M), Mt. Annapurna II (7937 M), Mt. Api (7132 M), Kagmara Ri (5115 M), and other Tibetan mountains.

During the trek, you will come across numerous Buddhist and Bon gompas that will present you with the cultural richness of the region. Moreover, around the lake, an annual prayer and worship take place that attracts numerous pilgrims. The Lower Dolpo region is highly influenced by the Tibetan and Bon culture. Furthermore, this is also one of the few areas where the pre-Buddhist Bon Po religion is still practiced. Similarly, you will witness stunning views of snow-capped peaks all around the lake that make the perfect fairytale scenery. Recently, this trek has become more famous, and many trekkers trek to this remote region to see its beauty of this region.

You will have the most amazing time of your life during the trek, as it has a lot to offer. The trek is quite difficult but still, but you don't require any prior trekking experience. However, you have to be in good shape to go on this trek. The best time is from the beginning of August to the end of October. During this time of the year, the entire region blooms with beautiful, colorful flowers, and the sky is clear blue with chilled air in the morning and evening. All things considered, the Lower Dolpa Trek is an ideal one for trekkers who love adventures with a touch of culture. 


Highlights

  • The trek passes through one of the most remote and rugged regions in Nepal, which receives very few tourists
  • Centuries-old monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism and the unique religion, Bon Po monasteries
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park, the largest trans-Himalayan national park in Nepal 
  • Unspoiled and unchanged culture and tradition, hugely influenced by Tibetan culture
  • Visit Shey Phoksundo Lake, a peaceful and beautiful alpine freshwater lake
  • Rich wildlife and vegetation, and majestic views of the surrounding mountains
  • Dho Tarap Valley, a center for Ancient Tibetan traditions and culture

Lower Dolpo Trek Detailed Itinerary

Starts Point: Juphal
Ends Point: Juphal
1Day

Arrive in Kathmandu (1350 M)

Max Altitude: 1350 M
Accommodation: 3 star category hotel
Mode of Transportation: Private Vehicle
2Day

Kathmandu valley Sightseeing with a tour guide

Max Altitude: 1350 M
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3 star category hotel
3Day

Fly to Nepalgunj (150 M)

Max Altitude: 150 M
Meals: Breakfast
Duration: 50 minutes
Accommodation: 3 star category hotel
Mode of Transportation: Flight
4Day

Fly to Juphal (2475 M) and trek to Dunai (2140 M)

Max Altitude: 2140 M
Meals: B,L&D
Duration: 35 minutes flight and 3 hours trek
Accommodation: Tent
Mode of Transportation: Flight
5Day

Trek to Tarakot (2540 M)

Max Altitude: 2540 M
Meals: B,L&D
Duration: 5 hours
Accommodation: Tent
6Day

Trek to Lahina Odar (3370 M)

Max Altitude: 3370 M
Meals: B,L&D
Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Tent
7Day

Trek to Nawarpani (3600 M)

Meals: B,L&D
Duration: 6 hours
Accommodation: Tent
Mode of Transportation: 3600 M
8Day

Trek to Dho Tarap (3944 M)

Max Altitude: 3944 M
Meals: B,L&D
Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Tent
9Day

Acclimatization Day

Max Altitude: 3944 M
Meals: B,L&D
Duration: 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Tent
10Day

Trek to Numala Base Camp (4440 M)

Max Altitude: 4440 M
Meals: B,L&D
Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Tent
11Day

Trek to Danigar (4631 M) via Numa La South (5238 M)

Max Altitude: 4631 M
Meals: B,L&D
Duration: 7 hours
Accommodation: Tent
12Day

Trek to Yak Kharka (3995 M) via Baga La (5214 M)

Max Altitude: 3995 M
Meals: B,L&D
Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Tent
13Day

Trek to Shey Phoksundo/Ringmo (3600 M)

Max Altitude: 3600 M
Meals: B,L&D
Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Tent
14Day

Rest Day

Max Altitude: 3600 M
Meals: B,L&D
Accommodation: Tent
15Day

Trek to Rechi (2940 M)

Max Altitude: 2940 M
Meals: B,L&D
Duration: 5 hours
Accommodation: Tent
16Day

Trek to Kageni (2413 M)

Max Altitude: 2413 M
Meals: B,L&D
Duration: 6 hours
Accommodation: Tent
17Day

Trek to Juphal (2475 M)

Max Altitude: 2475 M
Meals: B,L&D
Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Tent
18Day

Fly to Nepalgunj (150 M) and Kathmandu (1350 M)

Max Altitude: 1350 M
Meals: Breakfast
Duration: 1 hours 30 minutes
Accommodation: 3 star category hotel
Mode of Transportation: Flight
19Day

Extra day in case of flight cancellation due to bad weather

Max Altitude: 1350 M
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3 star category hotel
20Day

Final departure

Meals: Breakfast
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Cost Details

Includes

  • 4 nights of shared accommodation in a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu and 1 night in Nepalgunj on a BB basis.
  • All the necessary permits and paperwork, including a special permit for the restricted area.
  • Mules and all the needed staff and equipment, depending on group size, for the trek.
  • Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) and hot drinks during the trek.
  • Round flight Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Juphal-Nepalgunj-Kathmandu.
  • Rescue and evacuation arrangements in case of emergency.
  • Kathmandu valley tour with a tour guide in a private vehicle.
  • Government taxes, service charges, and official expenses.
  • All the staff’s salary, meals, accommodation & insurance.
  • Tented camp accommodations during the trek.
  • Professional English-speaking guide.
  • All airport and hotel transfers.

Excludes

  • Tips for the guide, assistant guide, porter, and driver (Tipping expected).
  • Excess baggage charges during domestic flights (only 15kg altogether).
  • Meals while you are in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj, Lunch, and Dinner.
  • Medical evacuation charges (In case of emergency).
  • Sightseeing and Monument entrance fees.
  • Your Travel Insurance (Compulsory).
  • Your personal expenses.
  • Nepal entry visa fee.
  • International airfare.

Add-ons & Trip Extensions

1. Upper Dolpo ExtensionUS$800 per 1
An additional 10 days of trekking to the Upper Dolpo region
Still Confused? Consult an Expert!

Equipment List

Head
  • Cap or Hat
  • Beanie
  • Sunglasses
  • Buff
Torso
  • Breathable and quick-drying full sleeve and half t-shirts
  • Waterproof/Windproof Jacket (Umbrella, or Raincoat for monsoon)
  • Down jacket (Around -10 degrees Celsius)
  • Thermal wear
  • Fleece
Lower Body
  • Breathable and quick-drying pants and shorts
  • Thermal wear
  • Waterproof pants (For monsoon)
Hands
  • Light and medium gloves
  • Warm, waterproof, and windproof gloves for winter, early spring, and late autumn seasons
Feet
  • Hiking socks
  • Hiking boots or shoes (Waterproof and ankle protection)
  • A pair of sandals
Others
  • Hiking poles
  • Passport
  • Trekking bag/Day Pack (25-30 liters)
  • Sleeping bag (- 0 to -5 degrees Celsius)
  • Mosquito repellent (For lower altitudes)
  • Sun cream
  • Toiletries
  • Headlamp
  • Spare battery for camera, GoPro, headlamp, etc.
  • Power bank (Electricity is not available in all places )
  • First-Aid Kit and medicines
  • Water purifier (Optional)
  • Local SIM card (NTC/Namaste preferred)
  • Water bottle/Water bag
  • Local currency
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Price Per Person
US$2400
  • No. of travelerPrice per person
  • 2 - 3 paxUS$3000
  • 4 - 5 paxUS$2650
  • 6 - 12 paxUS$2400