Lower Dolpo Trekking

15 Days Trekking Itinerary:

• Day 01: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj.
  
  • Meals: Lunch and Dinner.
  • Flying: 1 hr.
  • Max. Altitude: 150 m (Nepalgunj).
  • Overnight: Hotel/Lodge.
  • Your Dolpa trek adventure starts with a short, scenic flight from Kathmandu (1,350m/4,428ft) to Nepalgunj (150m/492ft) in southwestern Terai, Nepal. During this flight, you will be able to catch some aerial glimpses of the diversified landscapes transitioning from the lush hills of Kathmandu Valley to the vast plains of Nepalgunj. Immediately upon arrival, you'll be greeted by the subtropical climate and the unique charm of this pulsating city-a gateway to western Nepal's remote parts. You can spend the rest of the day at the local bazaars, trying some delectable regional cuisine, or getting ready for the next leg of your journey. The transition from the capital's bustling urban environment to Nepalgunj's tranquil plains marks the beginning of your trek's incredible adventure into the heart of Dolpa.
• Day 02: Fly to Juphal and trek to Dunai.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
  • Flying: 45 mins.
  • Walking: 2/3 hrs.
  • Trail Attractions: Terraced fields, and the Bheri River
  • Max. Altitude: 2,850 m (Dunai).
  • Overnight: Tented Camp.
  • Today your journey goes deep into the remote Dolpa region. Early in the morning, take a flight from Nepalgunj to Jhuphal (2,475m/8,118ft), a thrilling 35-minute ride with stunning views of the rugged terrain and snow-capped peaks. On arrival at Jhuphal, the gateway to Dolpa, you meet your trekking crew and get ready for your first-day trek.
    From Jhuphal, hike for 4-5 hours to Dunai 2,140m/8,003ft, the administrative hub of Dolpa. The trail descends in a relaxed way through terracing, villages in traditional styles, and different vegetations; it follows the beautiful Bheri River. While approaching Dunai, it goes through gorges, suspension bridges, and gives ample time to immerse with the culture and interact with the friendly villagers. Once in Dunai, rest and enjoy your first night in this picturesque town, getting ready for the challenges and rewards that lie ahead on the trek.
• Day 03 Trek to Tarakot.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
  • Walking: 5/6 hrs.
  • Trail Attractions: Terraced fields, Chortens, and Gompas.
  • Max. Altitude: 2,280 m (Tarakot).
  • Overnight: Tented Camp.
  • On Day 3, the journey continues with a 5-6 hour trek to Tarakot (2,540m/8,331ft), a route filled with cultural and natural wonders. The trail follows the Bheri River upstream, winding through narrow gorges, terraced fields, and small settlements. Along the way, you’ll pass lush vegetation and cross suspension bridges, soaking in the tranquility of the remote Dolpa region.
    Today, the destination will be the ancient fortress town of Tarakot. Rich in history, it served as an important trade hub and a military outpost. The villages command stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and are built with traditional architecture that speaks volumes about Dolpa's uniqueness. Take your time to explore the area, interact with the local inhabitants, and rest for the challenges at higher altitudes in the days to come.
• Day 04: Trek to Laini.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
  • Walking: 6/7 hrs.
  • Trail Attractions: Tarap Chu River, Suspension Bridges, Sandul Gompa, and farm terraces.
  • Max. Altitude: 3,160 m (Laini).
  • Overnight: Tented Camp.
  •  The trek from Tarakot (2,540m/8,331ft) to Lamachaur (3,600m/11,808ft) will take approximately 5-6 hours in gradual ascendancy. The trail follows the meandering Tarap Chu River with a marvelous amalgamation of rugged terrain, lush riverbanks, and scattered traditional settlements.
    As you ascend higher, the landscape changes into alpine vegetation, with the high Himalayan environment slowly starting to come into view. On the way, you may catch a glimpse of yaks and mules-the primary modes of transport in this remote region-along with the culture and way of life that is so different from yours.
    Upon reaching Lamachaur, you’ll be surrounded by the serene beauty of the highlands. The village offers a peaceful atmosphere, with towering cliffs and distant snow-capped peaks creating a dramatic backdrop. Take time to rest and acclimatize while savoring the pristine mountain environment that defines this part of the Dolpa trek.
• Day 05: Trek to Nawarpani.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
  • Walking: 5/6 hrs.
  • Trail Attractions: Steep Trail, Chyugur Khola, narrow gorge, and adventurous jumping walk.
  • Max. Altitude: 3,545m (Nawarpani).
  • Overnight: Tented Camp.

  • On Day 5, your trek continues with a 5-6 hour journey from Lamachaur (3,600m/11,808ft) to Toltol (3,523m/11,555ft). The trail descends slightly, weaving through rugged terrain, pristine rivers, and picturesque valleys that showcase the unspoiled beauty of Dolpa.

    As you follow the Tarap Chu River, you’ll pass through narrow gorges, dramatic rock formations, and occasional patches of alpine meadows. The trail offers plenty of opportunities to admire the stunning Himalayan scenery and perhaps spot wildlife such as blue sheep or Himalayan marmots. You’ll also pass small, scattered settlements, where you can experience the simple, resilient lifestyle of the local communities.

    Upon reaching Toltol, you’ll be surrounded by the tranquil ambiance of this remote area, with towering cliffs and the ever-present sound of the river flowing nearby. Take the evening to relax, enjoy the natural beauty, and prepare for the next phase of your adventure deeper into the Dolpa region.

• Day 06: Trek to Dho Tarap.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
  • Walking: 6 hrs.
  • Trail Attractions: Juniper bush, Wild rose, place of Bon Po and Chaiba religion, Tibetan and Magar's inhabitants.
  • Max. Altitude: 4,200 m (Dho Tarap).
  • Overnight: Tented Camp.

  • On Day 6, the trek takes you from Toltol (3,523m/11,555ft) to Dho Tarap (3,944m/12,936ft), a 6-7 hour journey that gradually ascends into the heart of the Dolpa region. The trail follows the Tarap Chu River upstream, with the landscape transitioning into high-altitude terrain featuring expansive meadows, rugged cliffs, and alpine vegetation.

    As you trek, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with snow-capped peaks visible in the distance. Along the way, you may encounter local herders tending to their yaks or sheep, as well as small, ancient monasteries that hint at the region’s rich Buddhist heritage. The cultural charm of the area becomes more apparent as you approach Dho Tarap, a picturesque village renowned for its traditional stone houses, vibrant prayer flags, and well-preserved monasteries.

    Dho Tarap, nestled in a broad valley surrounded by mountains, offers a glimpse into the unique lifestyle of the Dolpo-pa people. Spend the evening exploring this culturally rich village, interacting with the friendly locals, and acclimatizing to the higher altitude in preparation for the adventures ahead.

• Day 07: Acclimatization.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
  • Overnight: Tented Camp.

  • Day 7 is a much-needed acclimatization day in the serene and culturally rich village of Dho Tarap (3,944m/12,936ft). This day allows your body to adapt to the higher altitude while providing a chance to explore one of the most fascinating villages in the Dolpa region.

    Dho Tarap is renowned for its unique blend of Tibetan Buddhist and Bon traditions. You can visit ancient monasteries, such as Ribo Bumpa Gompa and Drakmar Dewa Monastery, to learn about the region's spiritual heritage and admire the intricate artistry of the prayer wheels, frescoes, and chortens. Take a walk through the village to observe traditional stone houses and interact with the local Dolpo-pa people, who are known for their warm hospitality and traditional attire.

    For those seeking a bit of adventure, short hikes around the valley offer breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, rolling meadows, and yaks grazing in the highlands. The tranquil environment of Dho Tarap makes it the perfect place to rest, reflect, and prepare for the challenging days ahead in the higher altitudes of Dolpa.

• Day 08: Trek to Numa La Base Camp.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
  • Walking: 6/7 hrs.
  • Trail Attractions: plain valley, river covered with green grasses, Tokyu Village, Monastery.
  • Max. Altitude: 4,440 m (Base Camp).
  • Overnight: Tented Camp.

  • The journey continues with a 5-6 hour trek from Dho Tarap (3,944m/12,936ft) to Numala Base Camp (4,440m/14,563ft). This stage of the trek leads you deeper into the high-altitude wilderness, offering stunning views and a true sense of adventure.

    The trail gradually ascends through the scenic Tarap Valley, surrounded by towering peaks and vast open landscapes. You’ll traverse through rugged paths, alpine meadows, and barren highlands, where the vegetation becomes sparse, and the raw beauty of the Dolpa region becomes even more pronounced. Along the way, you may encounter herds of yaks or blue sheep grazing in the high pastures.

    As you approach Numala Base Camp, the air becomes thinner, and the sense of remoteness deepens. The campsite is situated in a dramatic setting at the foot of the Numa La Pass, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Spend the evening resting and acclimatizing at this high altitude, enjoying the crisp mountain air and preparing for the challenging ascent of the Numa La Pass the following day.

• Day 09: Cross Numa La Pass and stay at Pelung Tang.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
  • Walking: 6/7 hrs.
  • Trail Attractions: steep walk, north face of Dhaulagiri Massif, and cross Num La Pass.
  • Max. Altitude: 5,190 m (Numa La).
  • Overnight: Tented Camp.

  • One of the most challenging yet rewarding days of the trek as you cross the Numa La Pass (5,238m/17,180ft), a high-altitude mountain pass, before descending to Gyambo (4,250m/13,940ft). The trek takes approximately 7-8 hours, demanding both physical endurance and mental determination.

    The day begins with an early start to tackle the steep ascent to Numa La Pass. As you climb, the trail offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, rugged terrain, and the expansive Dolpa landscape. Upon reaching the pass, you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of snow-capped summits, including Dhaulagiri and the distant Tibetan Plateau. This high point is a perfect place to pause, catch your breath, and take in the grandeur of the Himalayas.

    From the pass, the trail descends steeply toward Gyambo, passing through high-altitude meadows and rocky terrain. The descent requires careful footing but gradually leads to more gentle paths. Upon reaching Gyambo, nestled amidst serene mountain surroundings, you can rest and reflect on the incredible achievement of crossing one of the highest points of the trek. This day is a true highlight of your Dolpa adventure.

• Day 10: Cross Baga La Pass and stay at Temche.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
  • Walking: 6/7 hrs.
  • Trail Attractions: view of the wonderful landscape, Kanjirowa Himalayan Range, and cross Baga La.
  • Max. Altitude: 5,070 m (Baga La).
  • Overnight: Tented Camp.

  • The trek continues with a 5-6 hour journey from Gyambo (4,250m/13,940ft) to Temche (3,995m/13,103ft), offering a mix of descent and more manageable trails. After the challenging ascent and descent of the previous day, this leg allows for a more relaxed yet equally captivating exploration of the Dolpa region.

    The trail leads you through stunning high-altitude landscapes, passing by meadows, rocky outcrops, and scattered settlements. As you descend, the vegetation gradually becomes denser, with the barren highlands giving way to lush alpine scenery. Along the way, you may encounter herds of yaks and sheep, as well as friendly locals going about their daily routines.

    The journey provides ample opportunities to enjoy the serene beauty of the region, with cascading rivers and distant mountain views enhancing the experience. Upon reaching Temche, a tranquil stop surrounded by nature, you can rest and rejuvenate, preparing for the continued adventures that lie ahead.

• Day 11: Trek to Ringmo.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
  • Walking: 3/4 hrs.
  • Trail Attractions: Pine forest, pasture fields, and traditional Tibetan Village Ringmo.
  • Max. Altitude: 3,600 m (Ringmo).
  • Overnight: Tented Camp.

  • The trek takes you from Temche (3,995m/13,103ft) to Ringmo Gaun (3,641m/11,942ft), a 5-6 hour journey through beautiful high-altitude landscapes. The trail gradually descends, offering a mix of meadows, forests, and rugged terrain, with occasional views of snow-capped peaks in the distance.

    As you trek, you’ll pass by small villages and rural settlements, giving you a deeper glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Dolpo-pa people. The region's culture and way of life are shaped by its remote location, and the friendly locals often greet trekkers with warm hospitality.

    Upon reaching Ringmo Gaun, you’ll be welcomed by the village's tranquil atmosphere and the surrounding natural beauty. The village, located near the beautiful Phoksundo Lake, offers a chance to explore the area further, with the lake’s turquoise waters adding a stunning backdrop to your adventure. Ringmo Gaun is also known for its Buddhist monasteries and sacred sites, providing a peaceful environment to reflect and acclimatize before the next part of your journey.

• Day 12:trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake  
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
  • Trail Attractions: Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, and hike to Phoksundo Lake.
  • Overnight: Tented Camp.

  • On Day 12, enjoy a shorter and more leisurely 2-hour trek to the breathtaking Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,600m/11,808ft), one of the most iconic and serene destinations in the Dolpa region.

    The trail takes you through scenic landscapes, with glimpses of the stunning turquoise lake gradually becoming more visible as you approach. The journey is marked by gentle paths, passing through forests of pine and juniper trees and alongside cliffs, adding to the allure of the setting.

    Upon arriving at Shey Phoksundo Lake, you will be greeted by its crystal-clear, vivid turquoise waters, which are surrounded by dramatic cliffs and snow-capped peaks. The lake, which holds sacred significance for the locals, is a place of tranquility and beauty, offering a perfect spot for reflection and relaxation. The surrounding environment, with its unique flora and fauna, provides ample opportunities for short explorations, including visits to nearby monasteries and sacred sites. This peaceful day by the lake serves as a memorable highlight of the Dolpa trek.

• Day 13: Trek to Chhepak.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
  • Walking: 5/6 hrs.
  • Trail Attractions: Medicinal minerals that heal anything in this area, and small villages.
  • Max. Altitude: 2,520 m (Shyanta).
  • Overnight: Tented Camp.

  • On Day 13, you will trek from Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,600m/11,808ft) to Chhepka (2,678m/8,787ft), a 5-6 hour descent that takes you through lush forests and scenic valleys. As you leave the serene surroundings of the lake, the trail gradually drops in elevation, offering views of the lush alpine vegetation and the beauty of the lower-altitude landscapes.

    The path winds through pine and birch forests, crossing rivers and suspension bridges, while descending into the vibrant lower valley. The trek provides a more relaxed pace compared to previous days, giving you a chance to enjoy the rich natural diversity of the region, as well as the opportunity to spot wildlife, such as Himalayan tahr or pheasants.

    Upon arriving in Chhepka, a small village surrounded by terraced fields and mountain views, you can unwind and reflect on the beauty of your trek so far. The village offers a peaceful atmosphere, allowing you to relax and prepare for the journey ahead. The day provides a wonderful contrast, as you transition from the high-altitude landscapes to the warmer, lower elevations of Dolpa.

• Day 14: Trek to Juphal.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
  • Walking: 6 hrs.
  • Trail Attractions: meadows, birch trees, and end of walking.
  • Overnight: Tented Camp.

  • On Day 14, you will trek from Chhepka (2,678m/8,787ft) to Jhuphal (2,475m/8,118ft), a 5-6 hour journey that marks the beginning of your return toward civilization. The trail follows a gentle descent through beautiful forests and rural landscapes, with the scenery gradually shifting from alpine terrain back to more temperate surroundings.

    As you trek, you’ll pass through charming villages, terraced fields, and lush river valleys, providing an opportunity to interact with locals and observe the daily life of the Dolpa people. The trail gradually brings you closer to the lower altitudes, where the climate becomes warmer and more humid, offering a relaxing contrast to the harsher conditions of the highlands.

    Upon reaching Jhuphal, you'll be back in a small but bus tling town that serves as the gateway to Dolpa. The area offers the chance to rest and prepare for your flight back to Nepalgunj, reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve undertaken through one of Nepal’s most remote and beautiful regions.

• Day 15: Fly to Nepalgunj then to Kathmandu.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
  • Flying: 45 mins to Juphal, 1hr to Kathmandu.
  • Drop to your hotel. Lower Dolpo Trek finished here!

  • On Day 15, your Dolpa trek concludes with a flight from Jhuphal (2,475m/8,118ft) to Nepalgunj (150m/492ft), followed by a connecting flight back to Kathmandu.

    The journey begins with a scenic flight from Jhuphal to Nepalgunj, where you’ll be treated to a stunning aerial view of the rugged hills and valleys of Dolpa, transitioning into the flat plains of the Terai region. After arriving in Nepalgunj, you’ll have a brief stop before boarding your flight to Kathmandu. The second leg of the flight offers more panoramic views of the landscape, gradually revealing the Kathmandu Valley as you approach the capital.

    Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can relax and unwind, reflecting on the incredible adventure you’ve just experienced. The bustling capital city, with its rich culture and vibrant atmosphere, provides a stark contrast to the remote landscapes of Dolpa, marking the end of your unforgettable trek in Nepal’s wild and beautiful western region