Overview
LOWER DOLPO TREKKING is a once in a life time experience around the high land of ancient Bon cultures.
Mode of Trekking: In best available Lodges and tented camping.
Trekking Grade: Moderate to Adventurous.
Area of Trekking: Far-North Western region of Nepal around Dolpo District.
Highest points: Baga-La pass 5,169 m / 16,958 feet. and Numa-La 5,309 m / 17, 418 feet.
People and culture: Majority belongs to strong Tibetan origin tribe. Follows Buddhism and ancient Bon cult religion.
Trekking duration: 13 / 14 Days, with an option of arrival and return flights.
Total Trip: 17 Nights / 18 Days counting form arrival to departures in Nepal.
Lower Dolpo Trekking by Himalayan Forever Treks takes you around the remote village of Dolpa located in western Nepal. Trekkers can witness the dramatic scenic landscapes and pure wilderness around Lower and Inner
Dolpo region. Dolpa is the biggest districts in Nepal, and it has the nation's largest national parks, Shey Phoksundo National Park, established in 1984. Furthermore, the Shey Phoksundo lake is the major attraction of Lower Dolpa trekking.
The Lower Dolpo, which is situated between enormous Tibetan plateaus to the north, was made reachable to foreigners in 1989. Lower Dolpo reaches the Dhaulagiri Himalayan range on the eastern side of the Mustang region. This region is located within the ancient Trans Himalayan Salt Trade Route of Nepal and Tibet. It was a popular trade route that saw a caravan of yaks and mules pulling a load of goods from both Tibet and Nepal. Trekkers on this wonderful adventure will catch an insight of the immense local cultures of ancient times.
Trekkers will be witnessing the combination of early religions of Buddhism and the Bon sect of pre-Buddhism, and the region is fully decorated with ancient monasteries and monuments. The Lower Dolpa trek passes through one traditional village to another, crossing scenic passes and landscapes. The travelers can truley explore the hidden treasures of untouched western Nepal.
The earliest foreign travelers were the ones who described this mystical village as Dolpa and this region is mentioned in the famous novel called 'The Snow-Leopard', written and explored by Peter Matthiessen. This region is also referred to by outsiders as the Western Himalayan Shangri-La, which is native terminology for a prosperous nation. Most people in Dolpa are engaged in farms, livestock, and trade with Tibet across the northern borders.
Lower Dolpo Trekking starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to the small airport in Jhupal. Visit the farm village of Chepkpa, Raha-Gaon, mesmarizing settlement at Ringmo and beautiful
Phoksundo Lake. The main highlight of this journey is a amazing landscapes enclosed by rolling green hills and snow-capped mountain peaks. After exploring the beautiful picturesque Ringmo village and Phoksundo Lake, the return trial is even more exciting and breath taking.
Dho-Tarap is one of the largest villages in the Inner and Lower Dolpo region which is filled with impressive Buddhist prayer monuments and monasteries. After a slow walk from this wide scenic valley, you will be entering a narrow river. After some trek, You will finally reach to a high plateau where an majistic Tarakot village lies, which is one of the big historical human settlements. Explore this astetic village and its old monasteries and then hike your way to Dunai.
Dunai is a large town and the headquarter of the
Dolpo region, where our trekking part comes to an end. From Dunai, take a short four-wheel drive to Jhupal and stay there for the night. The next morning, a short flight will take you to the flat warm city of Nepalgunj, and then another flight to Kathmandu. Our fantastic and entertaining journey to the Lower Dolpa hike comes to an end when we arrive in Kathmandu.
1. Best Time to Visit Lower Dolpo
The best time to visit Lower Dolpo for trekking is during the Spring and Autumn seasons. Autumn, which falls in September, October, and November, offers perfect weather with clear skies, warm days, and chilly nights. The landscape is at its peak beauty, and it's also the harvesting season, adding excitement to the trek. Spring, in March, April, and May, welcomes new greenery and blooming flowers, making it ideal for nature lovers. Although trekking is possible during Monsoon (June to August) due to the rain shadow effect, reaching Dolpo might be challenging with flight cancellations or delays. Winter (December to February) is the least preferred time due to heavy snowfall, road blockages, and freezing temperatures, making it unsafe for trekking.
2. Lower Dolpo Trek Difficulties
The Lower Dolpo Trek presents several difficulties that trekkers may encounter along the way:
Route Difficulty:
The Lower Dolpo Trek is graded as moderate, suitable for both experienced and novice trekkers. However, for beginners, the steep and uneven uphill and downhill walks in remote and untouched areas can be challenging. Proper physical training can help overcome this difficulty.
Duration:
Trekkers need to walk for about 5 to 6 hours a day to complete the trek, which may be daunting for non-walkers. Additionally, the trek spans 23 days, which might be a challenge for those with busy schedules. Adjusting the itinerary or planning accordingly can help manage this aspect.
Altitude Sickness:
Altitude sickness is common when trekking to higher altitudes. As the Lower Dolpo Trek reaches altitudes above 4000 meters, trekkers, whether novice or experienced, may experience symptoms like headache, vomiting, difficulty sleeping, and nausea. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and informing the guide immediately upon experiencing symptoms are essential precautions to prevent altitude sickness.
3. Lower Dolpo Trek Permits
Exploring the beauty of Lower Dolpo requires trekkers to obtain both the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and the Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit. These permits regulate access to the restricted region and contribute to conservation efforts. Obtaining these permits is a mandatory part of trek preparation.
To trek in the Lower Dolpo region, you must obtain the Lower Dolpo restricted area entry permit from the migration office. This special permit is essential for completing your trek, and you cannot proceed without it.
The cost of this permit is relatively lower compared to permits for upper Dolpo. It amounts to 20 US$ per person for a week, with an additional charge of 5 US$ per person for each additional day.
4. How to Get to the Trailhead of Lower Dolpo Trekking?
The journey to the Lower Dolpo trailhead typically begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by another flight to Juphal. From Juphal, the trek officially commences, leading trekkers through captivating landscapes and traditional villages.
5. Lower Dolpo Trekking Route
The Lower Dolpo trekking route unfolds like a Himalayan tapestry, revealing alpine meadows, pristine lakes, and ancient monasteries. Trekkers traverse picturesque villages like Ringmo, Phoksundo, and Dho Tarap, immersing themselves in the cultural richness of this remote region.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu 1,320 m and transfer to hotel.
Our guide and staff will welcome you in the traditional manner when you arrive at Kathmandu, Nepal International Airport. The Himalayan Forever Treks' staff will take you to a short ride to your hotel and you will have some time to explore Thamel, a fascinating area with several top-notch lodging options and hotel services. Our guide or Group Leader will give you essential and helpful information about the route, lodging options, and local inn.
Day 2 : Morning tour of Kathmandu, afternoon fly to Nepalgunj.
After breakfast, our cultural guide will receive you at the hotel for an exciting Kathmandu tour. You will witness a jaw dropping historical Durbar Squares / Palace Courtyards and Nepalese cultures throughout the valley. This city tour comprises ancient monuments listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
1. Kathmandu Durbar Square:
Nestled within the bustling streets of the Kathmandu Valley, Kathmandu Durbar Square stands as a living museum of Nepal's royal history. As the former royal palace, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts an array of palaces, courtyards, and intricately carved temples. The architecture reflects a harmonious blend of Hindu and Nepalese artistry, with pagoda-style structures, ornate windows, and detailed wooden carvings that showcase the country's cultural diversity. Visitors can explore the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kumari Ghar (the Living Goddess's residence), and numerous shrines that bear witness to the city's royal past. The vibrant atmosphere, with street vendors, local artisans, and traditional performances, immerses visitors in the authentic charm of Kathmandu.
2. Pashupatinath Temple:
A short distance from Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple emerges as one of the most sacred Hindu shrines globally, nestled along the banks of the Bagmati River. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this UNESCO-listed site draws pilgrims and tourists alike with its spiritual aura and stunning architecture. The temple complex encompasses a series of shrines, ghats, and courtyards, each contributing to the religious ambiance. The main temple, adorned with silver and gold, features intricate carvings that narrate Hindu mythology. Visitors can witness the solemnity of cremation ceremonies along the riverbank, a profound experience that underscores the cycle of life and death in Hindu tradition.
3. Boudhanath Stupa:
A beacon of Buddhism in Kathmandu, the Boudhanath Stupa is an imposing structure that commands attention with its colossal mandala. As one of the largest stupas in the world, it serves as a focal point for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. The stupa's whitewashed dome is adorned with prayer flags, while the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha gaze serenely in all four cardinal directions. Pilgrims and visitors alike circumambulate the stupa, spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras, creating a rhythmic and meditative atmosphere. The surrounding area is dotted with monasteries, shops selling traditional Tibetan artifacts, and rooftop cafes that offer panoramic views of the stupa and its vibrant surroundings.
Day 3 : Morning flight to Jhupal 2,475 m, trek on a route to Chepkpa -04 hrs.
Take a 45-minute flight from Nepalgunj to Jhupal after an early breakfast. The short scenic flight will offer a great panorama view of western Himalayan peaks with dramatic landscapes. After landing Jhupal, join our trekking/camping staff/guide, and take a short time for refreshment.
Now, hike for a few hours along the Chepkpa trail to reach Phoksundo Lake. The route goes through farm areas and small dense forest before arriving at the overnight stop at Chepkpa. Finally, tents will be set for camping and the spare time will be spent to explore the stunning villages in Dolpa.
Day 4 : Trek to Chepkpa 2,838 m - 04 hrs.
Following a delightful overnight stay in a tent camp, a morning hike leads to a high hill above the valley of the Phoksundo River. As you walk through farming villages wrapped with walnut trees, enjoy the stunning views of the Kagmara and Kanjiboraba peaks. The hike gets close to Dhera, a small settlement of cattle herders and the journey leads to Raha-Gaon village which is mostly inhabited by Thakuri Malla Hindu tribe. The trail passes through a forest area and reaches Chepkpa where you find a nice field for overnight camping. You can stroll around charming farm villages there.
Day 5 : Trek to Samduwa village 2,960 m -06 hrs.
After a fun overnight camping trip in Chepkpa, the hike leads to Ankhe, a lovely farming community. The trail follows a short climb before descending to a riverside and keeps descending, reaching to the thick blue pine tree lines. From there, the trek follows the Phoksundo River upstream to Ryajik Village, for a possible lunch stop. Hike for a few hours in the afternoon to overnight camp in Samduwa, which is close to the Shey-Phoksundo National Park entrance area. Find wonderful grassy areas to set the tent and explore the beautiful area during your spare time.
Day 6 : Trek to Phoksundo Lake 3,630 m - 06 hours.
On this day, you will witness the first major highlight of Upper Dolpa Trek, which is the breathtaking emerald-colored Phoksundo Lake. Pack the tents early in the morning and have breakfast before heading to the Pungmo Khola (stream) valley. You will reach the upper side of Phoksundo Khola after a short hike on the side of the stream full of pine and birch trees. The trail continues for more than five hours before reaching the lovely village of Ringmo. Stay there overnight in the local nice simple lodge, and experience the hospitality of the local Dolpa villagers.
Day 7 : Rest day at Phoksundo Lake for local excursion.
Phoksundo area is a majestic place for rest and acclimatization, before heading towards higher elevation. Enjoy this day with a short hike and witness this unreal lake and its tropical surroundings. Furthermore, visit nearby Ringmo village filled with the ancient culture of Tibetan heritage. Enjoy the stunning views of the faraway snow peaks of Kagmara and the bordering mountain range.
Day 8 : Trek to Timche 3,995 m base of Baga-La Pass - 05 hrs.
After a memorable night around Phoksundo Lake and lovely village of Ringmo, you will be heading for return journey on an alternative exciting route. The trial leads towards highBaga-La and Numa-La Passes which reaches to the other end of Dolpo.
Travel south through the cold forested areas, and you will reach a summer pasture of yak herder temporary shelters. Hike towards a small village of Timche and set a camp for the night. Besides, Timche is located on an isolated corner close to the base of Baga-La pass.
Day 9 : Cross Baga-La 5,169 m and trek to Danigar 4,512 m -06 hrs.
Start the morning hike as early as possible to cross the first high pass of the Lower Dolpa trek. The trial follows a steep high ridge, and after a strenuous climb, you will reach on top of the Baga-La Pass. From the top, you will enjoy a jaw-dropping vista of Phoksundo Lake and the peaks of the Kagmara range. Enjoy the view and descent towards another yak herder's small summer shelter of Danigar. Camp there for the night which is close to the base of Numa-La pass. The following trial form there goes to the magnificent Dho-Tarap valley and the large community of Dho Tarap.
Day 10 : Cross Numa-La pass at 5, 190 m. Camp at the base 4,440 m -05 hrs.
On this day, you will be crossing Numa-La Pass, the highest pass of the Lower Dolpa Trek. Start a steady climb for a few hours from Danigar campsite, which consists of a steep haul. Finally, you will reach on top Numa-La and the breathtaking views of Dolpo's beautiful country landscapes will reward you for your tough hike. Enjoy the majestic view of the Dhaulagiri Himalayas towards the far eastern horizon, which includes views of Kagmara and Kanjibroba. This region also offers a close view of Daphne Shail Peak towards the west. Downhill to the base of Numa-La and to the route to Dho Tarap village. Finally, after a tough hike through all the high passes of the adventure, set a camp at the base for the night and relax.
Day 11 : Trek to Dho-Tarap 3, 944 m- 05 hrs.
Start your hike from Numa-La's base and continue for a few hours to get to Dho-Tarap, a small farming community. The gradual morning hike will lead you to a winding path into lovely pine and spruce forest. This trial goes through a few yak herder camps and then ends after reaching the wonderful village of Dho Tarap.
Dho Tarap is a fascinating and a large settlement, which is inhabited by mixed tribes of people who mainly has Tibetan origin. The Magar tribe from western hilly Nepal makes up the majority of this group. Staying in tented camp or in one of the simple cozy lodges is both a wonderful option to spend the night in Dho-Tarap. You can explore the nice village and its old monastery during the afternoon spare time.
Day 12 : Trek to Gyagar 3,759 m - 07 hrs.
After a great night in Dho Tarap, start hiking west towards the smaller settlements in the morning. This trial goes through farm areas and reaches Tarap Khola / stream. You can catch a glimpse of the stunning surroundings, which are home to a herd of blue sheep, along with mountain goats and other animals. These animals are frequently seen in the vicinity of this remote village where there is plenty of grassland for them to graze.
After a long journey, you will eventually arrive at the little, remote location of Gyagar. The following trail leads to a bridge that spans Chaya Khola to Gyagar and is close to the settlement of Nawarpani. Camp there for overnight stay.
Day 13 : Trek to Tarap Khola 3,652 via Chyugar 3,440 m - 06 hrs.
Starting from Gyagar, the trail goes downhill which comprises a number of thrilling suspension bridges. This route enters a river gorge with thick vegetation and continues till it reaches Chyugar or Laini Odar. This place is popular for big overhanging cave, which offers travelers a great place to shelter during bad weather. By the end of the day, set a camp in a grassy meadow.
Day 14 : Trek to Tarakot 2,540 m - 06 hrs.
A morning hike takes you through a mellow path that crosses several streams and follows another short climb. The hike continues for some hours and leaves behind the narrow river gorge. The trail ascends and descends before arriving to Tarakot, a walled settlement built above a beautiful hillside. You can witness the myriad Buddhist prayer flagpoles fluttering up in the houses of Tarakot village. Then, set a camp on a nice field near by the river, and explore this beautiful village of Tarakot.
Additionally, you can explore the well-known Sandul Gompa monastery, which is surrounded by several Chorten and Mani walls and exprence the local lively culture there.
Day 15 : Trek to Dunai 2,140 m - 05 hour and drive to Jhupal - 02 hrs.
Our Upper Dolpa Hike slowly comes to an end as we leave Tarakot village in the morning and hike towards the forest. Hike gradually in winding path towards the west and which leads you to various small farm villages. After some hours, you reach Dunai, an important town that serves as the administrative center for the Dolpa. Get refreshed and observe the local activities there. Then, board on a local vehicle or a jeep which leads to Jhupal. Stay there for the night.
Day 16 : Fly to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj and transfer to hotel.
During the early in the morning, board a short scenic flight from Jhupal to Nepalgunj. After arriving at Nepalgunj airport, broad another flight for Kathmandu. This scenic flight will get you to Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport in less than an hour. From there, take a short drive to your hotel and spent the rest of the day relaxing. You can also do your personal tasks during this leisure time.
Day 17 : International departure for homeward bound.
This is your last day in Nepal and you should get ready for final departure as per your international flight time. You will be escorted to the airport by the Himalayan Forever Trek guide and team. Our guide and staff will bid you a farewell as you depart for your country. You will surely never forget this wonderful experience and adventure of Upper Dolpa Trekking. Namesty!