Lower Dolpo Trek is in Nepal’s far north-west and is least explored and hardly visited by Westerners or foreign travelers due to its remoteness and isolation from the main big cities of Nepal. The adventure involves scenic sweeping flights to and from Kathmandu to reach Nepal’s Far South city of Nepalgunj and the highland of Dolpo country, where our marvelous walks lead you within Nepal’s largest national park, Shey-Phoksundo National Park, with an area of 3,555 sq. km.
Lower Dolpo Trekking, where you will be in the land of the ancient Bonpa sect of pre-Buddhism and in the country where elusive snow leopard and blue sheep habitats exist, is a scenic walk in the harmony of the local Dolpo people’s immense culture and traditions.
Highlights of Lower Dolpo Trek
- Adventure on ancient Trans-Himalayan Salt Trade & Caravan Trail to Tibet via Dolpo.
- Extension of huge South-West Tibetan landscapes within the world’s highest plateau land.
- Explore Lower Dolpo villages enriched with ancient Bon tradition and Buddhist culture.
- Impressive old monasteries and villages with stunning views of dramatic valleys and mountains.
- Crossing high passes of Numa-la Baga-la with exceptional views of high snow-capped peaks.
- Walk on high windswept-dry and arid country within beautiful landscapes.
- Grand views of snowcapped peaks of Dhaulagiri- Kagmara with Kanjibroba peaks.
- In the country of ancient Bon sect of pre-Buddhism and Blue Sheep with elusive snow leopard.
- Adventure on ancient Trans-Himalayan Salt Trade & Caravan Trail to Tibet via Dolpo.
Guideline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu 1,350 m / 4,430 ft and transfer to hotel.
Day 02: In Kathmandu with a sightseeing tour at places of interest.
Day 03: Fly to Nepalgunj city and transfer to hotel. (50 mins on air)
Day 04: Fly to Jhupal 2,475 m then drive to Dunai 2,140 m – 02 hrs.
Day 05: Trek to Chhepka 2,838 m – 06 hrs.
Day 06: Trek to Samdua village 2,960m -06 hrs.
Day 07: Trek to Phoksumdo Lake 3,630 m – 06 hours.
Day 08: Rest day at Phoksundo Lake for a local excursion.
Day 09: Cross Baga La 5,070m and to Phedi 4,470m – 07 hrs.
Day 10: Cross Numa-la 5,190 m and to walk to other Phedi – 08 hrs.
Day 11: Trek to Tokyu Gaon 4,200m via Jeng la 5,090 m – 06 hrs.
Day 12: Trek to Dho Tarap 3, 944 m- 05 hrs.
Day 13: Trek to Ghymagar 3,759 m – 07 hrs.
Day 14: Trek to Tarap Khola 3,652 via Chhyugar 3,440 m – 06 hours.
Day 15: Trek to Tarakot 2,540 m – 06 hrs.
Day 16: Trek to Dunai – 05 hrs then drive to Jhupal – 02 hr jeep ride.
Day 17: Fly back to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj and transfer to hotel.
Day 18: Free day in Kathmandu for individual activities.
Day 19: Final Departure for next destination.
Best Time and season for lower Dolpo trek
Spring (March to May): – Spring is an excellent time for Lower Dolpo Trekking. The weather begins to warm up, and the rhododendron forests come alive with vibrant blooms. The days are generally sunny with mild temperatures, making it comfortable for trekking. However, occasional rain showers can be expected, especially in May. It is advisable to pack layers of clothing to accommodate changing temperatures.
Monsoon (June to August):- The region receives heavy rainfall, making the trails muddy and slippery. The monsoon season is not ideal for trekking in Lower Dolpo due to the potential for landslides and difficult trail conditions.
Autumn (September to November):- Autumn is considered the peak trekking season in Nepal, including Lower Dolpo. The weather is stable, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and excellent visibility. The landscapes are colorful, with clear mountain views. The autumn months are also the harvest season, providing a unique opportunity to witness the local farming activities and cultural festivities.
Winter (December to February):- Lower Dolpo experiences harsh winter conditions with heavy snowfall and extremely cold temperatures. Trekking during this period is challenging and not recommended for inexperienced trekkers.
Note:- It’s worth noting that Lower Dolpo is a remote and High-Altitude region, and the weather can be unpredictable at times. It’s essential to be prepared for variations in temperature and carry appropriate trekking gear.
Cost included
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- All airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle (for both international and domestic flights).
- 04-night twin/double shearing deluxe accommodation on BB in Kathmandu.
- 1-night twin/double shearing deluxe accommodation on full board in Nepaljung.
- Guided sightseeing tours in Kathmandu with private vehicles.
- Kathmandu to Nepaljung to Juphal and Juphal to Nepaljung to Kathmandu by flight.
- All necessary trek permits and Trekkers’ Information Management System( TIMS card).
- A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking, well-trained, Government license holding guide. Price includes his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
- 2 guests to 1 porter with their insurance, salary, food, accommodation, and equipment.
- twin shearing accommodation/tented camp during the trek.
- Three meals a day; breakfast, lunch, dinner, and tea/coffee during the trekking.
- Snacks of biscuits/peanuts and seasonal fresh fruits dessert during the trek.
- Plan a Trek sleeping bag, down jackets and duffle bags, and trekking route maps – if necessary.
- All applicable government and local taxes per the itinerary.
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Cost Excluded
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- Nepal Visa fee (Bring accurate fee in USD and two passport-size photos).
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
- Diner and lunch in Kathmandu.
- Personal travel and health Insurance, Insurance for helicopter evacuation.
- Extra night accommodation and lunch and dinner in the city because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) then the scheduled itinerary.