Lower Dolpo Trek Overview
Lower Dolpo Trek is a life-transforming experience that gives tourists an off-the-beaten-path experience. Located in the remote corner of Nepal, the trek is an expedition across rugged terrain, high-altitude passes, and far-flung villages. The climax of the trek is the Numa La Pass, standing at an elevation of 5,190 meters (17,024 feet), which is certainly not for the faint of heart. Throughout the Lower Dolpo Trek, trekkers are immersed in the spectacular natural beauty and the unique culture of the Dolpo region, offering unparalleled views of the Himalayas and Tibetan-influenced villages.
During the Lower Dolpo Trek, you’ll pass through the enchanting Shey Phoksundo National Park, which is home to the stunning Phoksundo Lake at an elevation of 3,600 meters (11,811 feet). This serene, turquoise lake offers a breathtaking backdrop for trekkers. The route, though remote, provides the rare opportunity to witness the day-to-day existence of the indigenous Dolpo inhabitants, who live a traditional, religious life. The challenging but rewarding nature of the trek makes it a perfect option for those looking for an adventure that will enable them to withstand physical discomfort as well as cultural exposure. Trekkers feel proud on Lower Dolpo Trek while traveling through these untamed environments.
The Lower Dolpo Trek is not for the faint of heart, but for those who are determined to complete it, there are memories to be had of some of the most beautiful and untouched natural scenery in Nepal. The trek itself is a long and challenging one, but it’s an immersive experience that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who makes it through. With altitudes between 2,500 meters and 5,190 meters, the Lower Dolpo Trek requires physical stamina but yields breathtaking rewards that surpass all else. A seasoned trekker or a novice adventurer, the Lower Dolpo Trek is an exciting challenge for body and soul.
Trekking permits for lower Dolpo
Since the Lower Dolpo is a restricted area, you will need to obtain special trekking permits to enter and you should be accompanied by a licensed guide or a porter.
1) The Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit
2) The Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit
Trekking seasons for Lower Dolpo
Lower Dolpo Trek is an exciting adventure through some of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich areas. The trek begins in the village of Juphal and leads you to the stunning Phoksundo Lake at 3,600 meters (11,811 feet). Along the way, you will experience the unique blend of Tibetan culture and stunning views. The Numa La Pass is the high point of the Lower Dolpo Trek, at 5,190 meters (17,024 feet) altitude. During the trek, you are able to witness beautiful valleys, hilly landscapes, and high-altitude passes while getting to experience the unique lifestyle of the inhabitants of Dolpo.
In the Lower Dolpo Trek, trekkers will also traverse the Shey Phoksundo National Park, renowned for its wildlife and natural beauty. The park is home to endangered species like the snow leopard and blue sheep. The trek offers an experience of challenging trails and stunning nature beauty. Whether you’re trekking through the remote landscapes or savoring the rich culture of the region, the Lower Dolpo Trek is an experience that will leave you with memories for a lifetime. At an altitude of between 2,500 and 5,190 meters, the hike is suitable for those who seek a rewarding and exhilarating experience in the heart of Nepal.
Foods and Accommodations in Lower Dolpo
On the Lower Dolpo Trek, visitors are able to try a variety of traditional foods that reflect the Tibetan-influenced culture of the region. Most meals on the trek are straightforward and hearty, such as dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup and rice), momo (dumplings), and tsampa (roasted barley flour). The trek passes through villages ranging from 2,500 meters to 5,190 meters in altitude, where food is locally prepared and sourced. Even though the Lower Dolpo Trek lodging is basic, guests can anticipate sleeping in cozy teahouses and lodges, offering a warm and cozy refuge after exhaustive days of trekking. The accommodations are clean, humble, and offer a comfortable place to rest, where trekkers can recharge and refuel themselves for the following day. Lower Dolpo Trek offers the unique opportunity of experiencing the friendly nature of local people, relishing scrumptious food, and modest facilities that enhance the flavor of the trek.
Travel Insurance for Lower Dolpo Trek
Prior to embarking on the Lower Dolpo Trek, proper travel insurance is a must in order to take a safe and secure trek. The trek goes to high altitudes, with its highest point of 5,190 meters (17,024 feet) at Numa La Pass, which puts the trekkers at risk of altitude sickness and other health-related problems. Having proper travel insurance for the Lower Dolpo Trek gives protection against unwanted medical conditions, evacuation, or trip cancellations. Since the trek goes through remote areas, where medical services might be lacking, insurance is essential for reassurance. Choosing the perfect travel insurance for the Lower Dolpo Trek is a significant planning step for your adventure, as it will protect you against the unforeseen, so that you can enjoy this fantastic trek fully.
Lower Dolpo Trek Safety and Guide
According to Nepal tourism board all the Lower Dolpo Trek activities should be conducted along with a government licensed guide and porter. Your safety is our first priority. So our guide and porter are dedicated to making your experience of trekking in Nepal a memorable one without compromising your safety. Along with your safety we also focus on our guide and porter safety too. Notably, our guide and porter are provided with insurance facility. Porter will carry up to 10 kg or 15 kg per client. If you wish , you may keep your clothing and items in a storage on room where you are stay on Kathmandu hotel.
Local culture and religion Lower Dolpo Trek
The Lower Dolpo Trek is a deep cultural immersion into the region’s religion and culture, where Tibetan Buddhism is at the center of daily life. At 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) above sea level, trekkers will visit monasteries and sacred sites that are indicative of the spiritual heart of the people of Dolpo. The Lower Dolpo Trek takes you to remote villages where traditions dating back centuries have been well-preserved, and you get a glimpse into their unique customs, festivals, and religious practices. The trekking provides a unique opportunity to witness nature, culture, and religion in perfect coexistence. On the Lower Dolpo Trek, the influence of Tibetan Buddhism is felt, as prayer flags, stupas, and mani walls line the trail, reminding travelers of the spiritual significance of the area. This intense cultural and religious experience is a signature of the Lower Dolpo Trek, and it creates an unforgettable trip for those wishing to experience Nepal’s spiritual heritage.
Challenging nature of Lower Dolpo Trek
Lower Dolpo Trek is a challenging yet worthwhile adventure for trekkers in search of a hidden-path trekking experience. The trek takes one up to an elevation of up to 5,190 meters (17,024 feet) at Numa La Pass, where the altitude may trigger altitude sickness in the event of inadequate acclimatization. Lower Dolpo Trek is a trekking adventure involving strenuous days of trekking through difficult terrain, steep ascents, and remote villages, so it’s a physically demanding trek. Though demanding, the trek is repaid with beautiful scenery, rich culture, and the sense of achievement that makes it well worth the effort. The Lower Dolpo Trek is ideal for experienced trekkers looking for high-altitude adventure and a truly off-the-beaten-path experience. With proper preparation, the Lower Dolpo Trek is a great and memorable adventure.
Altitude Sickness on Lower Dolpo Trek
Normally altitude sickness occurs when you travel to a high altitude too quickly. Headache, Dizziness, loss of appetite, fatigue, shortness of breath, drowsiness, flatulence peripheral,fluctuation is body temperature, nausea, tiredness etc are the symptoms occur when your body tries to adjust to the lower air pressure and lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. Here are some things you can do to prevent yourself from getting altitude sickness.
- Stop and rest where you are
- ]Do not go any higher for at least 24 to 48 hours
- Make sure you are drinking enough water
- Do not smoke, drink alcohol, or exercise
- Eating foods and drinking fluids that contain carbs such as bread, pasta, fruits, milk, rice, and so on.
Preventing Altitude Sickness (AMS):
- Rest Well: Ensure that you rest well before starting your trek.
- Stay Hydrated: Continue drinking plenty of water during the journey.
- Balanced Nutrition: Maintain the balance of salt and sugar through proper eating habits and not skipping meals.
- Keep Warm: Layer up to remain warm without profuse sweating.
- Controlled Breathing: Breathe deeply and steadily from your diaphragm to maximize lung capacity. Maintain a comfortable walking speed that will allow for controlled breathing. Nasal breathing avoids drying your throat—wearing a muff or scarf in high altitudes might be of use.
Pace Yourself: It’s not a competition. Pace yourself with a maintainable and Server consistent pace instead of exhausting yourself too early and taking many rest stops. Stop and admire the stunning views.
Lower Dolpo Trek Highlights
- The deepest Shey Phoksundo Lake (3611 m) in Nepal
- Opportunity to experience unique culture, customs, and traditional way of life of Tibetan Buddhists
- Pass through diverse landscapes, from lush forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron to arid high altitude desert terrain.
- We will provide you with a (20 degree sleeping bag) and a duffel bag for the trekking excursion, but you must return them after completing the trek.
- Challenging mountain passes like the Numa La Pass (5190 m) and Baga La Pass (5070 m)
- Opportunities to spotting wildlife and bird watching in their natural habitats
- Experience the warmth and hospitality of the local inhabitants
- Perfect choice for those seeking a more authentic and less crowded trekking experience
- Traverse through river valleys, alpine meadows, and high- mountain passes
- Mesmerizing Shey Phoksundo National Park (3555 sq. km)
Important Notes
Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours Pvt. Ltd. has years of expertise in the field of Himalayan trekking and can curate unforgettable experiences for adventurers like you. In order for trekkers to have a really comfortable and pleasant Everest Base Camp Trek, we are offering different optional services as per your need.
Optional Add-Ons Available:
✅ Porter Service – USD $
Lighten your load and trek with ease! Our experienced porters can take up to 25 kg of luggage, which can be shared between two trekkers. Let the beauty of the landscape soak into you instead, without heavy gear.
✅ Kathmandu to Lukla Helicopter Flight – USD 400
Avoid the pain of regular flights and start your adventure with a helicopter ride from Kathmandu to Lukla. This option offers breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas while saving you time.
✅ Lukla to Kathmandu Helicopter Flight – USD 500
Complete your trekking in style with a helicopter ride from Lukla back to Kathmandu. Ensuring a smooth return in comfort and with spectacular aerial views of the Everest Region, without risk of possible flight delays.
✅ Upgraded Accommodation – USD 150
Upgrade your trekking experience with upgraded lodges featuring attached bathrooms at key locations: Phakding (1 night), Namche (3 nights), Tyangboche (1 night), Dingboche (2 nights), and Lukla (1 night). Enjoy added comfort after long days on the trail.
✅ Extra Night in Kathmandu – USD 40/night
Arriving early or staying longer? Add extra nights at our partnered 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, including breakfast, to relax before or after your trek.
How to Customize Your EBC Trek:
- Choose Your Trek Departure Date.
- Mention the Number of Travelers.
- Click on ‘Book Now’ or ‘Add to Cart.’
- Choose Your Required Add-on Options.
- Complete Your Booking and Payment
Required Experience:
This trek is ideal for active trekkers who can hike 6 to 7 hours a day carrying a light daypack. On certain days, the trekking is longer and the altitude increases the difficulty level of trekking. The trails are generally good, but there could be boulder and uneven patches in between.
Itinerary and Schedule: We try to follow the itinerary planned; yet trekking in distant mountain regions means uncertainty. Factors such as weather and trekkers’ well-being may make readjustments necessary. Your guide and Sherpa crew will try to stick to the trail as designed but flexibility is a must. Your safety is our topmost priority and also to get you back to Kathmandu before your scheduled departure.
What will the temperature be like during trek?
Weather conditions can vary significantly depending on the season and can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. If your trek takes you above 3,000m, you should be prepared for temperatures ranging from -10°C to 25°C in a single day. It’s essential to have proper protection against sun exposure and strong winds. For helpful weather insights, refer to reliable source. Feel free to reach out to us for a recommended packing list tailored to your trekking itinerary.
How much money should be we bring?
You’ll require Nepali Rupees for any expenditure not covered by your package itinerary. Such costs might include bottled water, night hot shower, extra snacks, extra hot drinks, repairing or replacing equipment, battery charging, souvenirs, and tips. In case you want to shop, Thamel is an excellent place to shop on your last day. You are welcome to come to our office prior to your trek for individual counsel and assistance with money exchange.
Electricity, telephone, and internet access are available at most lodges and guesthouses along the Lower Dolpo Trek, but with some additional charges. While the trek itself does not have widespread access to electricity, many lodges rely on solar power or generators to provide energy. You can recharge your devices like cameras, mobiles, and laptops at these places, although it usually comes at an extra cost. If you need to make phone calls or access the internet, some accommodations offer limited telephone and Wi-Fi services. You can obtain an internet password from the lodge, but keep in mind that these services typically incur additional fees.
Fill your life with adventures, not things. Have stories to tell, not stuff to show. Hurry up! Adventure is waiting for you and mountains are calling you.
This trip is fully customization. Importantly, this trip is available on both a fixed departure and a private group basis. Moreover, we can also customize the trip as per your needs, please contact us at Whatsapp (+977-9843770916) or email us at info@nepalholodaytreksandtours.com. Let us know how we can help you, and we will do our best to give you the best customer service you’ll get anywhere else.
Furthermore, Nepal holiday treks and tours Pvt. Ltd. is a reputable and reliable company serving relentlessly in the field of tourism to fulfill the dreams of diverse adventure seekers around the globe into reality where they can feel most alive. So, we recommend you to reserve seat for yourself by booking with us right away for a wonderful and unforgettable trip experience.
Lower Dolpo Trek Itinerary
Expand allDay 1: Arrivel in Kathmandu (Tribhuwan International Airport)
Our personnel will be waiting for you at the airport with your name on a placard. He will pick you up from
airport and transfer you to the hotel as per your preference. This day will be for your refreshment and in
the evening you will be provided a guided evening walk to the local markets as well as localities to make
you familiar with the Nepalese atmosphere.
Day 2: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing
We will be providing you a half day guided sightseeing tour to different UNESCO listed world heritage sites in Nepal with one of our best tour guides and the destinations includes Boudhanath the largest of all
Buddhist monument stupas in Nepal, Swayambhunath the monkey temple and also the oldest one of its
kind, Pashupatinath the Hindu temple of lord Shiva. We will stay overnight at the same hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Take a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
The flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj will last for about an hour. We will reach Humla a rural district of Nepal and the border of India at Simikot. If the time persists we will get involved in the sightseeing activities here at the places like mini zoo, Muslim market as well as local villages. We will have our overnight stay at Nepalgunj.
Day 4: Take a flight from Nepalgunj for Jhupal (Dolpo) and trek to Dunai
The early flight from Nepalgunj will lead us to Jhupal the Dolpo [2,320m/7,610ft] region which will be 45 minutes flight with astonishing mountain views. Our trekking begins from Jhupal walking for 2 to 3 hours along the banks of Bheri River to reach the camping site in Dunai [2,850m/9,348ft] for overnight stay.
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 5: Trek from Dunai to Tarakot ( 2, 543 m ~/ 5 to 6 hrs)
We will continue our trekking with the early morning breakfast along the bank of the river with smooth trail crossing deep gorges, bridges and villages. We will cross a gorge surrounded with pine trees walking on a path build about seven meters above the river. We will reach Tarakot [2,543m/8,341ft] village after a walk of around 5 to 6 hours.
Day 6: Trek from Tarakot to Laini [3,160 m/10,365 ft] ~/ 6 - 7 hrs)
In the early dawn, we will start to follow the trail upstream made by Tarap chu river crossing the bridge along Sandul Gompa. The trail will pass through the rural villages and terraced farms to reach Laini [3,160 m/10,365 ft] after the walk of 6 to 7 hours.
Day 7: Trek from Laini to Nawarpani [3,545m/11,627 ft] ~/ 5 hrs)
On this day as we continue our trekking we will be walking passing the gorge at Tarap River. We will then are descending to Chyugur Khola and walk few times to reach Nawarpani [3,545m/11,627 ft]. Our today’s journey will rest for around 5 hours.
Day 8: Trek to Do Tarap [4,090m/13,415ft] ~/ 7 to 8 hrs)
Our today’s destination will be Do Tarap [4,090m/13,415ft] hiking for around 7 to 8 hours. We will gradually ascend towards Kamattaraka a stream flowing from the east. We will walk along the juniper bushes and wild roses as well as the Himalayan valleys.
Day 9: Acclimatization day
To make our body favorable with the climate we will rest for a day at Do Tarap for acclimatization. We although will idle on this day as we will stroll around the localities for the wonderful and marvelous views of monasteries, Gompa, lifestyle of the villagers as well as few peaks.
Day 10: Trek from Do Tarap to Numa La Base [ 4,440 m/14,563 ft] ~/ 6 - 7 hrs)
On this day, we are walking for around 6 to 7 hours towards Tarap valley walking through the unique path created by lush verdant grass on both sides of the river. We will pass through monasteries and rough tracks to reach Numa La Base Camp Camp [4440m/14,563 ft].
Day 11: Trek from Numa La Base to Cross Numa La [5,190m/17,023ft] and camp at Pelung Tang [4465m/14,645 ft] ~/ 6-7 hrs)
Today is one of the harsh days of our trekking because we are passing the highest pass on this trek i.e. Numa La [5,190m/17,023ft]. The steep path will lead to the top of the pass from where we can observe the astonishing views of landscapes as well as some mountains like Dhaulagiri. We will descend after the sightseeing to the camp at Pelung Tang [4465m/14,645 ft] after completing the journey of around 6-7 hours.
Day 12: Trek from Pelung Tang to Cross Baga La [5,070m/16,630ft] and camp Dajok Tang [4,080m/13,382ft] ~/ 6 Hrs)
After the breakfast in early morning; we will be trekking from Pelung Tang to Cross Baga La [5,070m/16,630ft] which offers the wonderful views of some snowcapped peaks like Kanjirowa Himalayan range and then we will descend at the camp in Dajok Tang [4,080m/13,382ft]. Our today’s journey will take us approximately around 6 hours.
Day 13: Trek from dajok Tang to Ringmo (3,600m/11,808ft) ~/ 3 - 4 hrs)
We will spend 3 to 4 hours walking today to reach Ringmo (3,600m/11,808ft) walking through the farming fields and pine forests walking for around 3 to 4 hours.
Day 14: Day for acclimatization at Ringmo and a hike to Phoksundo Lake
This day is separated for acclimatization in beautiful Ringmo from where we will take a short hike to one of the charming scenarios around Phoksundo Lake.
Day 15: Trek from Ringmo to Shyanta [ 2,520m/8265 ft] ~/ 5 - 6 hrs)
The trail will descend downhill to Chepka following the trail of massive hanging rocks. This different herbal medicine can be found in this area and we move passing through the village to reach Shyanta [2520m/8265 ft] walking for around 5 to 6 hours.
Day 16: Trek from Shyanta to Jhupal
Today we will trek towards Jhupal via Sulighat crossing the birch trees on the way. We will be enjoying the brilliant scenarios of mountains and Jhupal on the way.
Day 17: Take a flight from Jhupal to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu
We will take an early morning flight from Jhupal to reach Nepalgunj and from their catch another flight for Kathmandu on the last day of our trekking. We will be providing you a farewell dinner along with the trekking staffs at the evening of this day.
Day 18: Last Final Day Departure back to home.
We will send our professional staff or guide to lead you to airport for your departure to your homeland.
If the above Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences and specifications.
Plan My TripLower Dolpo Trek Cost Includes
- The facility of pick and drop from airport to hotel and vice versa
- Sight seeing in kathmandu private car and tours guide
- Accommodation in the tent during the trek
- 3 night hotel in kathmandu B/B meal on full board ( breakfast , lunch , dinner , hot tea or coffee )
- Permit fee for trekking and TIMS card
- A trekking guide as speak English and experienced and well as an assistant guide as per four trekkers and a porter for two of each trekker. All the staffs are provided with their salary and insurance as well as the required equipment
- All porters cost
- Welcome and farewell dinner at a typical Nepali cultural restaurant in Kathmandu
- All the government as well as local taxes and company service charge will be cleared before the commencement of your trekking
- This trek also includes all the domestic airfares.
Lower Dolpo Trek Cost Excludes
- International airfare and visa fees
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Personal expenses of bar and beverage bills, wifi, hot shower, bottle of water, extra porters,
- laundry or any other things which are not mentioned by the company
- Your trekking gears and extra nights in a certain destination
- Your travel insurance which should include the emergency rescue
- Tips for your guide and porters
- Entrance fees during the sightseeing
- Extra expenses due to any event such as strikes, weather conditions, or flight delays
Upcoming Departures
Customer Reviews
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General info:
- Sleeping Bag: Four-season sleeping bag with a rating of -20°C (Rental option for USD 35)
- Insulated Jacket: A puffy and warm down jacket suitable for winter (Rental option for USD 35)
- Daypack: 25-30 liter backpack rain cover to carry one’s daily essentials
Clothing:
- Thermal base layers
- Trekking shirts (quick-dry)
- Fleece jacket and down jacket
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Trekking trousers
- Gloves (inner and outer)
- Warm hat and sun hat
- Trekking socks
Footwear:
- Sturdy trekking boots
- Camp shoes/sandals
- Gaiters (optional)
Accessories:
- Trekking poles
- Backpack (50-60L) and daypack (20-30L)
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles and purification tablets
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