We planatrek provide the 25 years of experience in such trekking and tours, in which we provide the Lower Dolpo Trek as a Remote Himalayan Trekking. Lower Dolpo Trek is in Nepal’s far north-west and is the least explored and hardly visited by Westerners or foreign travellers 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 for Lower Dolpo Trek
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.
Detailed Itinerary – Lower Dolpo Trek (19 Days)
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, you can rest from your journey or explore the lively streets of Thamel at your own pace. In the evening, a short trek briefing may be arranged.
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour
Today is dedicated to exploring Kathmandu Valley’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will visit culturally and spiritually significant landmarks such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square. This sightseeing day also helps you prepare for the remote trekking adventure ahead.
Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
You will take a scenic domestic flight to Nepalgunj, a bustling town in western Nepal near the Indian border. The short flight offers views of Nepal’s diverse landscapes, from hills to plains. After arrival, transfer to your hotel and relax in preparation for entering the remote Dolpo region.
Day 04: Fly to Juphal (2,475 m) and Drive to Dunai (2,140 m)
Early in the morning, fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal, the gateway airstrip to Dolpo. After landing, you begin a short drive to Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpa. This marks your official entry into one of Nepal’s most isolated trekking regions.
Day 05: Trek from Dunai to Chhepka (2,838 m)
Your trek begins by following the trail along the Thuli Bheri River. You pass through small settlements, suspension bridges, and forested paths as the landscape gradually becomes more rugged. After a steady climb, you reach the peaceful village of Chhepka, surrounded by pine forests.
Day 06: Trek from Chhepka to Samdua Village (2,960 m)
Today’s walk takes you deeper into the Dolpo wilderness. The trail winds through dense forests of cedar and fir, with occasional river crossings and waterfalls along the way. Samdua is a small traditional village offering insight into rural Dolpo life.
Day 07: Trek to Phoksundo Lake (3,630 m)
This is one of the most rewarding days of the trek. The trail ascends gradually, opening into dramatic landscapes before reaching the spectacular Shey Phoksundo Lake. The lake’s striking turquoise color, set against barren cliffs and snow-capped peaks, makes it one of Nepal’s most beautiful natural landmarks.
Day 08: Acclimatization & Exploration at Phoksundo Lake
A rest and acclimatization day at Phoksundo Lake allows your body to adjust to the altitude. You can explore Ringmo Village, visit ancient monasteries, walk along the lake shore, or hike to viewpoints overlooking the lake and surrounding cliffs.
Day 09: Cross Baga La Pass (5,070 m) to Phedi (4,470 m)
Today you cross the high-altitude Baga La Pass. The climb is gradual but demanding, rewarding you with expansive views of the Dolpo highlands. After crossing the pass, you descend carefully to Phedi, a high-altitude camping area beneath the next major pass.
Day 10: Cross Numa La Pass (5,190 m) to Phedi
This is one of the most challenging and scenic days of the trek. You ascend early to cross the Numa La Pass, one of the highest points on the Lower Dolpo trek. From the top, you are rewarded with sweeping views of surrounding Himalayan peaks before descending to another Phedi campsite.
Day 11: Trek to Tokyu Gaon (4,200 m) via Jeng La Pass (5,090 m)
After breakfast, you climb toward Jeng La Pass, offering dramatic views of Dhaulagiri and neighboring mountain ranges. After crossing the pass, the trail descends to Tokyu Gaon, a traditional Dolpo village with stone houses and strong Tibetan cultural influences.
Day 12: Trek from Tokyu Gaon to Dho Tarap (3,944 m)
The trail today leads through wide alpine valleys and yak grazing pastures. You reach Dho Tarap, one of the highest inhabited villages in Nepal. The village is culturally significant, home to both Buddhist and Bon traditions, and surrounded by vast open landscapes.
Day 13: Trek from Dho Tarap to Ghymagar (3,759 m)
Leaving Dho Tarap behind, you descend gradually through arid valleys and traditional settlements. Ghymagar is a quiet village surrounded by farmland and rolling hills, providing a peaceful overnight stop.
Day 14: Trek to Tarap Khola (3,652 m) via Chhyugar (3,440 m)
Today’s trek involves descending through scenic gorges and river valleys. You pass through Chhyugar village and follow the Tarap Khola river to reach your campsite. The terrain gradually becomes greener as you lose altitude.
Day 15: Trek from Tarap Khola to Tarakot (2,540 m)
The trail continues downhill through dramatic canyon landscapes and suspension bridges. You arrive at Tarakot, a historically important village once used as a fortress and trade center linking Dolpo with Tibet.
Day 16: Trek to Dunai and Drive to Juphal
You complete the final trekking section back to Dunai, following familiar trails along the river. From Dunai, a short jeep ride takes you back to Juphal, where you prepare for your return flights.
Day 17: Fly from Juphal to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj
Early morning flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, followed by a connecting flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel for a well-earned rest.
Day 18: Free Day in Kathmandu
A free day in Kathmandu for personal activities, souvenir shopping, or optional sightseeing. This day also serves as a buffer in case of flight delays from Dolpo.
Day 19: Final Departure
Transfer to the international airport for your onward journey. Your unforgettable Lower Dolpo trekking adventure comes to an end.
Best Time and season for the 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 colourful, 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
- 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 trek.
- 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.
Cost Excluded
- Nepal Visa fee (Bring accurate fee in USD and two passport-size photos).
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
- Dinner 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.
Equipment Check List
Frequently Asked Questions – Lower Dolpo Trek
What is the Lower Dolpo Trek?
The Lower Dolpo Trek is a remote trekking route in western Nepal that explores the Dolpo region. It is known for Tibetan culture, dramatic landscapes, high mountain passes, and the famous Shey Phoksundo Lake.
How difficult is the Lower Dolpo Trek?
The Lower Dolpo Trek is considered challenging due to long trekking days, high altitude, and remote terrain. Trekkers should have good fitness and prior trekking experience, especially for passes above 5,000 meters.
Is the Lower Dolpo Trek a restricted area trek in Nepal?
Yes, the Lower Dolpo Trek is a restricted area trek in Nepal. Special permits are required, and trekkers must travel with a licensed guide through a registered trekking agency.
What permits are required for the Lower Dolpo Trek?
The Lower Dolpo Trek requires a Restricted Area Permit and a Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit. These permits must be arranged in advance through an authorized trekking company.
What is the best time to do the Lower Dolpo Trek?
The best time to do the Lower Dolpo Trek is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when weather conditions are stable and mountain views are clear.
Who is the Lower Dolpo Trek suitable for?
The Lower Dolpo Trek is best suited for experienced trekkers seeking a remote trek in Nepal. It is ideal for travelers looking for cultural immersion, solitude, and a challenging Himalayan adventure.
