Lower Dolpo Trek - 21 Days

As you arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by one of our team representatives. After your warm welcome, you will be transferred to your hotel in the Thamel area, which is known to be a major spot for trekkers and travelers. Thamel is mostly packed with many restaurants, shops, bars, and cafes. In the evening, you can explore the nearby areas and take a short walk to Thamel and relax. 

After breakfast, you will be provided with options to either spend the day on trek preparation or explore some of the major UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. You will be visiting some of the major sites such as Swyambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Durbar Square, which offer you chances to witness the rich cultural heritage, temples, and old palaces. After the full day of sightseeing, you will return to the hotel, where you will relax, enjoy your delicious dinner, and prepare yourself for the trek.

After having your breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu, you will be heading towards the Domestic Terminal (TIA) for your flight to Nepalgunj. The flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj takes approximately 1 hour, depending on the weather conditions. The flight to Nepalgunj rewards you with aerial views of the landscapes as you navigate over the foothills. Upon reaching Nepalgunj Airport, you will be welcomed by our team representative and transferred to your designated hotel. Nepalgunj is a vibrant town, situated in the Terai region, close to the Indian border, lying at an elevation of around 150 meters. Nepalgunj serves as the entry point to regions like Dolpo. You can spend some time exploring the small markets to witness the different local cultures of this town.

Today, you will be flying from Nepalgunj to Juphal, and after breakfast at your hotel, you will proceed towards the Nepalgunj Airport. The flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal is short, with 25-30 minutes, depending on the weather conditions. The flight offers you some spectacular views of the Himalayas as you ascend into the mountain region. You will be passing through rugged terrain and dramatic landscapes as you near Juphal. As you land in Juphal, you will begin your trek to Dunai, the headquarters of Dolpa District. The route passes through traditional villages, terraced fields, and small settlement areas, where you get to witness stone houses. Your route passes along the Bheri River, offering you impressive views of the river valleys and mountains from a distance. Approaching Dunai, a small and picturesque village in the Dolpo region, serves as the entry point to the remote areas of this district. Relax and explore the village while you get an opportunity to interact with the locals of the area. 

You will start your journey from Dunai to Tarakot, a historic settlement area located at an elevation of 2,560 M (8,366 ft). The trail navigates along the Bheri River, taking you through a combination of rocky as well as forested paths. As you trek higher, the landscape changes to a more rugged and isolated area, providing stunning views of the nearby mountains. Along the route, you will pass through several small villages, where you can witness the local way of living, offering you a sense of traditional lifestyle in the Dolpa region, with stone houses and terraced fields. The trek involves crossing several small wooden and suspension bridges over the Bheri River. Upon reaching Tarakot, a charming village that lies on the bank of the Bheri River and is a major cultural and historical site of the Dolpo region, you can witness ancient monasteries. The village is mostly surrounded by incredible scenery, with a river flowing nearby, and offers panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas.

Making your ascent from Tarakot to Lahini starts by following the Bheri River, where you make your way through dense forests, terraced fields, and small settlement areas. As you leave Tarakot, you will see a gradual change in the landscape as it becomes more rugged, with a river valley. The trekking route rewards you with stunning views of the nearby mountain peaks and valleys, where you cross through rocky trail sections. The trail passes along several settlement areas, where you can observe the different lifestyles of the locals, who are mainly into agriculture and animal husbandry. Lahini is mostly included in the Buddhist culture, where you can see small stupas and prayer flags along the route. Once you arrive in Lahini, you can take some time to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings, along with making your visit to some of the local monasteries. 

The trek from Lahini to Nawarpani includes some gradual ascent through dense forests, which provides you with dazzling views of the Bheri River valley and the other nearby surrounding peaks. The trail proceeds through a combination of dense pine forests, which provide you with a serene environment. You will also be passing through small settlement areas, where you can see local villagers practicing traditional agricultural methods. As you gain elevation, you will be offered remarkable views of snow-capped peaks and some glimpses of the mountain ranges. As you near Nawarpani, your route will follow along the river valleys, crossing several small streams, and making your way alongside the Bheri River. Reaching Nawarpani, you will be offered a serene environment, where you can see some changes in the landscape as you ascend. Nawarpani is a great place to rest and acclimatize yourself to the higher altitude.

Trekking from Nawarpani to Dho Tarap starts with a significant altitude gain through stunning landscapes and cultural experiences, making today’s journey rewarding. Leaving from Nawarpani, you trek towards more remote and rugged terrain with some rocky hills and high-altitude meadows. As you gain elevation, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of surrounding mountains and valleys. The landscapes become more barren with fertile regions, offering you impressive vistas of snow-capped peaks from a distance, along with the view of Kanjiroba Himal (6,500 M). You will get an opportunity to see yaks and shepherds grazing in the area, along with chances to witness Tibetan-style stone houses as you near Dho Tarap. Reaching Dho Tarap, the largest settlement area in the region, which is home to the Tibetan Buddhists. This place is full of ancient monasteries, where you can see mani walls, prayer flags, and monasteries around the village. Upon reaching Dho Tarap, you will have enough time to rest and explore the village as well as chances to interact with the locals. 

Today is a rest day provided to you, especially for acclimatization to help your body adjust to a higher altitude. You will be spending this day exploring the village and the beautiful surroundings of this remote Tibetan Buddhist area. Prepare yourself to visit the Dho Tarap Monastery, a crucial religious site in the area, where you can see beautiful architecture, prayer wheels, and various statues. This day offers you an excellent opportunity to learn more about the Tibetan Buddhist practices in the area and chances to interact with the locals about their local customs, traditions, and lifestyle. Take a short walk around the village and explore the traditional stone houses, mani walls, and prayer flags. Spend your time relaxing and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. This day is perfect to experience the unique culture and stunning natural beauty of Dho Tarap, one of the most remote and scenic locations in Nepal.

The trek starts with a gradual ascent, where you will be winding through high-altitude meadows, grazing lands, and rock ridges, which provide you with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trek from Dho Tarap to Numala Base Camp will be challenging, as there will be significant altitude gain through remote and rugged terrain. As you move forward, you will make your way through a variety of landscapes, from grassy meadows to barren rocky terrain. The views of snow-capped mountain peaks of the Numala Range will provide you with awe-inspiring vistas. Along the way, you get to encounter several wildlife such as Himalayan blue Sheep and Yaks. Approaching Numala Base Camp, a peaceful and quiet spot, offering impressive views of the Numala Himal and other rugged peaks. This base camp serves as the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings with a delicious prepared meal.

Making your way from Numala Base Camp to Danigar via Numa-La Pass is the longest and most challenging part of the Lower Dolpo trek. The starting phase of the route includes some steady climbs through rocky and high-altitude terrain, where the air gets thinner. As you pass through Numa-La pass, you will be amazed by the impressive panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and surrounding valleys, making your trek full of unforgettable memories. Make sure to maintain your pace and stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness. After you approach the Numa-La pass, spend some time praising the beautiful landscapes along with the spectacular vistas of mountains and peaks. You then begin your descent towards the Danigar, a famous remote location known for its rugged landscapes, where you can get well-deserved experiences of the Buddhist culture and interact with unique Tibetan-influenced villages. You will be passing through dense forests, where you can witness sudden changes in the landscape as you descend. 

The trek from Danigar to Yak Kharka through the Bagala Pass is a challenging yet scenic route, where your descent starts after crossing the Bagala Pass to Yak Kharka. Making your way from Danigar involves a steep climb toward the Bagala Pass, which can be strenuous due to gradual altitude gain and rocky terrain conditions. After reaching the Bagala Pass, utilize your time to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and valleys. As you descend towards Yak Kharka, a small settlement area known for its grazing lands for yaks. The descent is easier, as the trail is well-managed. Reaching Yak Kharka, you can rest and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings.

You will hike from Yak Kharka to Ringmo, a short but enjoyable trek, passing through scenic valleys and dense forests. The trail is mostly well-maintained, with some gentle descents. The trail winds through various valleys and forests, offering you incredible views of rocky hills and green meadows. As you descend towards Ringmo, you will notice a sudden change in the landscape from lush green areas to wider and open spaces, rewarding you with impressive views of the Kanjiroba Himal range, reaching Ringmo, a picturesque village lying near the edge of the Shey Phoksundo Lake.

Today’s journey takes you to the heart of Dolpo’s beauty, Shey Phoksundo Lake. The trail from Ringmo is a peaceful and scenic one, taking you through alpine forests and rocky landscapes. As you approach the lake, the turquoise-blue water comes into view, sparkling below towering cliffs and snow-covered peaks. Surrounded by peaceful and dramatic terrain, Phoksundo feels sacred, as the glacial lake is untouched and pristine, considering it to be one of Nepal’s natural wonders and a truly unforgettable highlight of the trek.

Today, you will be exploring the Shey Phoksundo Lake, which is well-known for its breathtaking beauty and serene surroundings. The paths around the lake are mostly easy, with only a few gradual inclines and declines, where the route is well-maintained. The lake is located at 3,590 meters, surrounded by towering peaks, such as the impressive Kanjiroba Himal to the north and the Phoksundo Himal to the east. The vibrant turquoise lake water provides a stunning contrast to the rugged and snow-capped peaks, making it an ideal location for photographers. A few small monasteries in the area provide you with a chance to immerse yourself in the local Tibetan culture. This day is perfect for relaxing and appreciating the breathtaking scenery, and enjoying the incredible natural beauty with a peaceful ambiance.

Trekking from Shey Phoksundo Lake involves a gradual descent, taking you through a mix of dense forest areas. As you pass along the route, you can witness a major shift in the landscape, which becomes more lush and vibrant. The trail navigates through small Tibetan-style villages, where you can observe the local way of life and interact with the locals. As you leave the high-altitude lake region, the views of the snow-capped Kanjiroba Himal peaks begin to fade, transforming into lush and greener surroundings. Some sections of the trek pass along the Phoksundo River, with the relaxing sound of flowing water guiding you during your descent. Chhepka, situated at an elevation of 2,670 meters, is a tranquil village surrounded by forests and river valleys, offering calm and peace after a day of trekking.

The journey from Chhepka to Dunai offers you a mix of descents and moderate climbs. The trail is generally favorable, though a few sections may be rocky or slippery. As you descend, the landscape changes from dense forests into open valleys and cultivated fields. Along the route, you will cross various villages where locals are mainly engaged in livestock and farming of the land. As you approach Dunai, a vibrant village with stone houses and a few small shops. This palace is known to be the key hub for trekkers and locals, offering a great place to relax before continuing the next trek. Dubai also has several Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, enhancing the cultural significance of the area.

Proceeding from Dunai to Juphal begins with a gentle descent along the Dunai River. The trekking route is usually well-maintained, making today’s journey more relaxing. Throughout the route, you will pass through terraced fields, small villages, and scattered settlements where locals are seen farming or herding livestock. As you move forward, the landscape changes into more of one with rhododendrons and pine trees. After trekking for about 3-4 hours, depending on your pace of way, you reach Juphal, a small town that serves as the gateway for trekkers coming in and out of the Dolpo region. The surrounding atmosphere here is more vibrant and quiet. Freshen up and spend some time relaxing and reflecting on your experiences in the Dolp region, with a feeling of achievement after completing the unforgettable trek.

The flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj typically takes around 25-30 minutes, depending on the weather conditions. During the flight, you will be offered breathtaking views of the mountains and landscapes along with the lowland region of Nepalgunj. The flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj can get delayed sometimes, because of the weather, but the journey provides you thrilling experience. After you land in Nepalgunj, you will be taking a connecting flight to Kathmandu. This flight usually takes approximately 1 hour, which rewards you with flying over the plains of the Terai region as well as some dazzling views of the surrounding hills. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel to relax and reflect on your incredible trek through the Dolpo region.

This day is set as a buffer day to accommodate any possible flight delays or cancellations due to bad weather conditions. Flights from remote locations such as Juphal and Nepalgunj frequently depend on the weather conditions, where there are chances of possible delays or cancellations, mainly during the monsoon season or when mountain visibility is low. This buffer day is provided to make sure you catch your connecting flight from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu. If your flight goes as per the schedule, you will get an opportunity to explore this city and visit the major tourist attractions, places like Swayambhunath, Boudha, Pashupatinath, and Durbar Square. 

After an incredible trekking journey in the Dolpo region, today is the end of your trek. You will be transferred to the Tribhuvan International Airport from your designated hotel, as per your flight schedule. Thank you for trusting High Camp Adventure, and our team wishes you safe travels.  Whenever you are ready for your next trekking journey, feel free to contact our team, as we will be happy to help you with the planning and guidance again.