Lower Dolpo Overview And Highlights
Trip Highlights
- Explore the remote beauty of Dolpo Region with a trek starting and ending in Kathmandu.
- Enjoy scenic flights via Nepalgunj and Juphal with stunning Himalayan views.
- Experience the unique Bon culture and traditional lifestyle of the hidden Dolpo region.
- Trek through Shey Phoksundo National Park with rich flora and rare wildlife.
- Visit the breathtaking Shey Phoksundo Lake, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise water.
- Walk peaceful off-the-beaten trails surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes.
- Explore ancient monasteries, traditional villages, and high Himalayan passes.
Itineary
Welcome to Nepal for the Lower Dolpo Trek, an experience that goes beyond just trekking and offers an exhilarating adventure. We extend our warm welcome to you at Tribhuvan International Airport, located in Kathmandu, Nepal. Following the Nepali tradition, our team will greet you outside the terminal, ensuring a heartfelt welcome. From there, we will arrange transportation to your hotel. After completing the check-in process and taking a brief rest, we invite you to visit our office to finalize the details of your trip and indulge in a delightful Family Dinner. You will spend the night in Kathmandu, preparing for the exciting journey ahead.
On the day of the Lower Dolpo Trek, your journey begins towards Nepalganj, a tropical region situated 150m above sea level. After enjoying a delightful breakfast, you will embark on a picturesque 50-minute flight from Kathmandu to Nepal. Upon landing at Nepalganj Airport, you will have an entire day to discover the vibrant and lively atmosphere of this hot destination.
After an early morning breakfast, you will take a scenic flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal. The flight offers breathtaking aerial views of deep valleys, winding rivers, rolling hills, and snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including the majestic Dhaulagiri range on clear days. As you arrive in Juphal, you will immediately notice the dramatic change in landscape and atmosphere of the remote Dolpo region.
After lunch in Juphal, the trek begins towards Dunai through the beautiful Thulo Bheri Valley. The trail follows rugged hillsides and descends gradually along the southern bank of the Bheri River, passing small villages and traditional water mills along the way. Surrounded by peaceful mountain scenery and local culture, you will finally reach Dunai at an elevation of 2,150 meters (7,035 ft), where you will spend your first night of the trek preparing for the adventure ahead.
On the second day of the Lower Dolpo Trekking journey, you will depart from Dunai and make your way towards Tarakot. The day will commence with a hearty breakfast and organizing your belongings. Your trek will begin by following the southern bank of the Bheri River, then ascending upstream on a straightforward path. Along the route, you will pass through several steep gorges, thrilling suspension bridges, and charming remote villages. Following the Lower Dolpo Trekking Trail, you will reach Tarakot, a small settlement situated on a hill overlooking the Bheri River to the south, where you will spend the night at a tea house.
On this day of the Lower Dolpo Trek, you will follow the scenic path along the Tarap Chu River. To reach Sandul Gompa, which is located between the Barbung Khola and Tarap Chu Rivers, you will need to cross the river twice. As you continue your journey, you will pass through charming communities and lush terraced farms. Keep in mind that reaching Laini will involve multiple uphill and downhill sections along the way.
In keeping with the norm, your trek will commence after partaking in a mountain breakfast. The awe-inspiring scenery, revitalizing fresh air, and intrinsic motivation will propel you forward. Embarking on the short Dolpo trek, you will embark on the narrow and uphill trail of the Tarap River valley. Overcoming challenging ascents and descents, you will eventually reach Chyugur Khola. A short stroll from there will lead you to Nawarpani, where you will spend the night.
Today's journey will take us from Nawarpani to Dho Trap. As you make your way up to Kamattarka, where the Tarap Chu River and the Lang Khola meet, you will gradually leave Nawarpani behind. Leaving the tree line, you will cross a small canyon and enter the dry inner Himalayan valley, adorned with beautiful juniper and wild rose shrubs. Following the Short Dolpo Trekking Trail, you will reach the charming settlement of Dho Tarap, surrounded by meandering stone walls. Here, you can experience the unique Bon Po and Chaiba religions. Spend the night in Dho Tarap.
Today marks a special occasion in Dho Trap, as it is a day dedicated to exploration and immersion in the village's rich culture. Take this opportunity to truly experience the local way of life and marvel at the magnificent Gompa, adorned in striking red and white colors. This day holds immense beauty and significance, allowing you to connect with the community and adapt to the surroundings, making it an unforgettable part of your journey.
Today's expedition along the Lower Dolpo Trekking Trail promises to unveil the wonders of the upper Tarap valley. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery as you traverse this trail, where verdant grasslands gracefully line the banks of a meandering river. For adventurous souls, a hike along the Tarap Chu River can even lead you to Tokyo. Along the way, take a moment to explore the revered Chiba sect's monastery, a hidden gem in this region. As the day progresses, brace yourself for a demanding terrain that will ultimately lead you to the Numa La Base Camp, where you can rest and rejuvenate for the night.
Kick off your journey to overcome the Numa La Pass in the early hours of the morning. This will prove to be the most challenging and extensive day of the short Dolpo Trek Itinerary. After a satisfying breakfast, begin your ascent towards Numa La Pass. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the arid Dolpo Mountains reaching up to Mount Dhaulagiri from the summit of the pass (8,167m). Take some time to absorb the beauty before descending to Pelung Tang, where you will spend the night in a tent camp.
Today, commencing the journey to conquer a new pass right after breakfast. To reach Baga La Pass, you will need to trek through a challenging route. Once again, the breathtaking view of the desert landscape, Mt. Kanjirowa in the distance, and the snow-capped mountains from the pass's summit are truly remarkable. After some time, your Lower Dolpo Trek Route will descend to Dajok Tang for the night. You will spend the night in a quaint tea house.
After the morning, our journey continues towards Ringmo Village. The Short Dolpo Trekking Trail meanders through alpine vegetation and lush pine trees. Ringmo village, a Tibetan settlement in the Dolpo region, will be reached after a slightly less challenging trek than the days prior. Overnight stay will be at a tea house in Ringmo village.
Start your morning by rising early and indulging in a satisfying breakfast. Next on the itinerary is the short Dolpo Trekking Trail that will take you to Phoksundo Lake, positioned at an altitude of 3,611 meters above sea level. Known as the most alluring spot in Dolpo, this lake offers the opportunity to encounter yak caravans and explore local monasteries during your journey. Upon reaching Phoksundo Lake, prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking scenery. Tonight, you will be accommodated in a charming tea house near the lake.
Once you have enjoyed a delightful breakfast at Phoksundo Lake, your descent towards Shyanta village will commence. As you make your way towards Chepka, the Short Dolpo Trekking Trail will lead you through a series of settlements, granting you the opportunity to witness a magnificent overhanging cliff. Throughout your journey, you will encounter therapeutic minerals known for their healing properties, believed to address various ailments prevalent in this region. Your climb will persist until you finally reach Shyanta village, where you will find a welcoming tea house to spend the night.
Today, journey back to Juphal by way of Sulighat, where you will be surrounded by birch trees and treated to magnificent mountain panoramas. Upon reaching Juphal, take the opportunity to unwind and explore the bustling market in the evening. Rest for the night at a comfortable tea house in Juphal.
Today, you will embark on back-to-back journeys, first to Nepalgunj and then onwards to Kathmandu. The Lower Dolpo Trek Itinerary will draw to a close once you reach Kathmandu, where you will check in at your hotel and enjoy a day of relaxation. In the evening, you will participate in the farewell dinner organized by the Destination Holiday Trek. Tomorrow, you will make preparations to return to your hometown and spend the night at a comfortable in Hotel.
Your unforgettable journey in Nepal comes to an end today. After breakfast, a representative from Destination Holiday Trek & Expedition will transfer you to the international airport in Kathmandu for your final departure. We hope you leave Nepal with wonderful memories of the Himalayas and look forward to welcoming you again for another adventure in the future. Safe travels!
