Highlights

Lower Dolpo Trekking

Trip Overview

Trip Overview

Highlights

  • Explore the far western region of Nepal, within the Shey-Phoksundo National Park, and experience a truly off-the-beaten-path trek.
  • Conquer challenging passes like Bagala (5,190m) and Numa-la (5,318m) with steep ascents and descents.
  • Spot rare and endangered species such as the snow leopard, musk deer, and blue sheep.
  • Discover ancient Buddhist monasteries, traditional yak caravans, and vibrant villages inhabited by Magar and Gurung people.
  • Admire the stunning Phoksundo Lake, a turquoise gem surrounded by rugged mountains.
  • Start with an 18-day journey from Kathmandu, including visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites before embarking on the Lower Dolpo Trek.

About the Trip

Lower Dolpo Trekking lies in the far western part of Nepal within the Shey-Phoksundo National Park, 400 km west of Kathmandu. Lower Dolpo & Shey Phoksundo Trekking was restricted to foreigners until 1990. This trek is a beautiful journey over many passes, through jungles, ravines, and across the Himalayan main chain. Lower Dolpo Trekking is designed for real adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. It is home to many rare and endangered animal species, including the snow leopard, musk deer, and blue sheep.

During the Lower Dolpo Trekking, there are two significant passes: Bagala (5190m) and Numa-La (5318m), both with long, steep ascents and descents. The trek features wonderful yak caravans and some of the oldest and largest Buddhist monasteries in the area. This trek also takes you through the flat upper valley, which contains a variety of interesting villages mostly inhabited by people of Magar and Gurung origins. One of the highlights of the Lower Dolpo Trekking is the pristine turquoise Phoksundo Lake, which is split between rocks that rise 2000m into the clear mountain skies.

We begin our 18-day journey in Kathmandu with a visit to UNESCO World Heritage sites before heading on our adventure: Lower Dolpo Trekking.

Aarohi Holiday always believes in providing our clients with the best quality service, making their trip to Nepal joyful and unforgettable.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m) at Tribhuvan International Airport
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, we offer you a pick-up facility from the airport and manage your stay at the most comfortable hotel in the city. You get to meet the team of trekkers and together we prepare for the trek.

Day 2: Sightseeing around Kathmandu valley (1,345m)
Today would be the most exhilarating day where you will be introduced to the most pious Hindu and Buddhist religious places that are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. You will explore the mysticism surrounding Pashupatinath temple, Boudhanath stupa, Patan Durbar Square, and Swayambhunath stupa.

Day 3: Fly Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (158m)
Today we take an early flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, located in the western part of Nepal. The hour-long flight is longer than most domestic flights, offering a unique mix of traditional local culture. Stay overnight at a hotel in Nepalgunj.

Day 4: Fly Nepalgunj to Jhupal (Dolpo) (2,320m) and trek to Dunai (2,850m)
We fly early morning from Nepalgunj to Jhupal. After breakfast, we explore Jhupal and then begin our trek by heading down towards the Thule Bheri Riverbank, passing through terraced fields and beautiful villages. We continue on a flat path along the river until we reach Dunai. Stay overnight at Dunai.

Day 5: Dunai to Tarakot (2,543m) - 5-6 hrs walk
We start our trek passing along the Thuli Bheri River as we head out of Dunai. The path gradually ascends upstream and crosses bridges to reach the north bank of the river. We continue through deep gorges and remote villages shaded by pine trees, about seven meters above the river, until we reach Lawan, where we cross another bridge to get to the south bank of the river again. As we continue, we'll be greeted by the beautiful terraced fields of Tarakot and the village standing on a mound south of the Bheri River. The village, built as a fort by the local people, offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region. The night is spent at an inn in Tarakot.

Day 6: Tarakot to Laini (3,160m) - 6-7 hrs walk
Laini is our destination for the day. Leaving Tarakot, we cross the bridge over the river and gently climb through the fields of buckwheat. We follow a roundabout route, heading south into a side valley and then climbing to the south bank of the Thulo Bheri River. The trail passes through cypress trees and a white chorten, leading to a 120m long suspension bridge at Laisicap. As we cross the bridge, we can spot the village of Kanigaon high above the path and some white-breasted dippers (only found in western Nepal) down below the path, on the river. We continue through cedar forests and the steepest part of the gorge until we reach Laini. The night is spent in a basic tea house.

Day 7: Laini to Nawarpani (3,545m) - 5 hrs walk
Nawarpani is the destination for the day. After a short flat walk, we make a sharp ascent to a mini pass. We walk across the steep gorge, descend, and cross the water made by the Tilba River. We climb another ridge, descend to the Chyangru River, and cross it to reach the east bank. Continuing along the river, we cross a side stream, Chaya Khola, and continue to Thanjam. After crossing the Tarap Khola once more, we follow the riverside path to reach Nawarpani. Overnight at Nawarpani.

Day 8: Nawarpani to Do Tarap (4,090m) - 7-8 hrs walk
Dho Tarap is the destination for the day. We continue along the riverside, crossing small caves, camping areas, and the beautiful bridge of the Tarap River, enjoying the barren canyon walls. We climb the east bank of the river and pass through a worn Trans-Himalayan landscape to reach the ridge at Serkam, greeted by a chorten. After descending from Serkam and walking a couple of kilometers, we cross the bridge over the Saul River. We continue along a rocky path below the cliff and then climb gradually along the river past many walls and worn cliffs, reaching a line of ancient chortens. After a 20-minute walk, Dho Tarap arrives, welcomed by Buddhist flags and a monastery. The night is spent at a lodge in Dho Tarap.

Day 9: Rest Day - Acclimatization at Do Tarap (4,090m)
Dho Tarap is a village of closely packed stone homes and corrals surrounded by barley fields. The village is inhabited by Tibetans and Magars, who are followers of both Bon PO and Nyingma traditions. The day will be spent exploring nearby monasteries like Doro and Shipchhong and the settlement of Dho Tarap. The night is spent at a lodge in Dho Tarap.

Day 10: Do Tarap to Numa La Base Camp (4,440m) - 6-7 hrs walk
Numa La Base Camp is the destination for the day. Although the distance is relatively short, we make several detours to visit gompas and villages before reaching the base camp. From Dho Tarap, we head back to the ancient Mekyem Gompa. We continue along the river, enjoying the plain valley with yaks and horses grazing on thick green grasses. We cross a bridge and walk towards another bridge at a path junction, continuing southward towards Numa La Base Camp. The night is spent in a tented camp beneath Numa La.

Day 11: Numa La Base Camp to Pelung Tang (4,465m) via Numa La Pass (5,190m) - 6-7 hrs walk
Today is the toughest day of the trek as we aim to cross Numa La. We start early, climbing the ridge on a yak path up a grass-covered slope. The ascent continues up to Numa La, where we are rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding mountains and the barren landscapes of Dolpa. After enjoying the views, we descend into a U-shaped rocky valley and cross the stream and talus slopes, reaching Pelung Tang. Overnight stay at the tented camp in Pelung Tang.

Day 12: Pelung Tang to Dajok Tang (4,080m) via Baga La Pass (5,070m) - 6 hrs walk (camp)
From Pelung Tang, our destination is Dajok Tang. We cross meadows, streams, and ridges, eventually reaching the village of Dajok Tang (4,080m). Overnight stay in a tented camp at Dajok Tang.

Day 13: Dajok Tang to Ringmo (3,600m) - 3-4 hrs walk
Ringmo is the destination for the day. Initially, we walk through pine, walnut, and oak forests. After an hour, we continue through narrow rocky cliffs for about 2-3 hours to reach Ringmo. The remaining day is spent exploring the village. The night is spent at a lodge in Ringmo.

Day 14: Hike Ringmo to Phoksundo Lake (3,733m)
We take a relaxing walk halfway around Phoksundo Lake to explore the lake area. We also visit the nearby temple and the Tibetan Buddhist monastery. If time permits, we explore Ringmo village further. The night is spent at a lodge in Ringmo.

Day 15: Ringmo to Shyanta (2,520m) - 5-6 hrs walk
Shyanta is the destination for the day. We walk along the Phoksundo River towards the bridge along Pugma Khola, passing Polam (a winter settlement) and Amchi Hospital. An easy walk on the east bank of the Phoksundo River, through the forest, brings us to Chhepka before climbing to Shyanta. Overnight at Shyanta.

Day 16: Shyanta to Jhupal (2,475m)
From Shyanta, we descend to Sulighat, passing Raktang where we cross the bridge across the Thuli Bheri River. After exploring the villages, we reach Jhupal after about 4 to 5 hours of walking. Stay overnight at Jhupal.

Day 17: Jhupal to Nepalgunj by flight and Nepalgunj to Kathmandu (1,350m)
We take an early morning flight from Jhupal to Nepalgunj, and then from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we head to the hotel for refreshment. In the evening, there will be a farewell dinner (Nepali Food) to celebrate the successful completion of our journey. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 18: Final Departure
Your wonderful adventure in Nepal comes to an end today. We wish you all the best. A representative from Aarohi Holiday Pvt Ltd will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight.

Includes/Excludes

    Cost Includes:

  • Pick up and drop off from and to International airport.
  • 3 night hotel in Kathmandu (first two nights and last one night).
  • Dolpo Conservation Park permit.
  • Dolpo Especial permits.
  • TIMS Card (Trekker’s Information Management System).
  • One porter for each two people.
  • Accommodation in tea houses twin sharing (private room/ Shared bathroom).
  • 3 Meals a day – breakfast, lunch, Dinner during the trek (Anything from the menu).
  • Flight ticket (Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Jufal) Both way.
  • Sightseeing tour car A/C with driver.
  • Farewell dinner at Nepalese cultural restaurant after the trek in Kathmandu.
  • All taxes and Company service charges.


    Cost Excludes:

  • Nepal Visa fee (bring accurate USD cash and two passport size photographs).
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Monument sites entrance fees while sightseeing in Kathmandu.
  • Excess baggage charges.
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and earlier return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
  • Travel and rescue insurance.
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, internet / Wi-Fi, laundry, bar bills - tea/coffee, hot chocolate, juice, beer, battery recharge, extra porters, bottled or boiled water, shower etc.).
  • Tips for guides and porters (Tipping is expected, but not compulsory).

Essential Info

1. Physical fitness
Physical fitness is an important part of any outdoor activity. It is probably less of an issue at the start than you might think. Trek is about taking your time settling your own pace and enjoying the experience to its fullest. Basically, there are three components of Nepal trek preparation: Aerobic, strength, and mental. Aerobic conditioning is important primarily because you will trek in thinner air, up to 40 percent less than at sea level. With good aerobic conditioning, you will be able to better metabolize whatever oxygen is available to you.

Before your arrival in Nepal, you should plan on doing at least one hour of aerobic exercise 3-4 times per week for 1 month. Jogging, hiking, cycling, and walking on alley floors to ridgeline ascents with a day pack are excellent forms of exercise, as long as you're strengthening leg muscles and building stamina. Speed is not the essence; confidence, stamina, and continuity are.


2. Trekking Seasons in Nepal
Nepal experiences peak tourist seasons primarily in two periods: fall (September to November), which is the most popular, and spring (March to May), which follows closely behind. The summer months (June to August) coincide with the monsoon season, resulting in washed-out trails and, at times, impassable roads due to landslides. Additionally, scenic views are often obscured. However, some regions lie within rain shadow areas, receiving little to no rain, making summer a viable option for visiting these places despite the season.

Winter in Nepal is characterized by dry weather, with nights at higher altitudes seeing temperatures drop as low as -20°C. Despite the cold nights, the days are generally sunny and pleasant. One of the perks of this season is the reduced crowd on the trails. In Kathmandu, daytime temperatures can reach a comfortable 20°C.

Fall is the most popular season in Nepal as it follows the monsoons, bringing dry air, sunny days, and lush green landscapes in the lower valleys due to the heavy rains. Spring is also a favored time to visit.


3. Trekking Day
A typical trekking day in Nepal starts with a cup of tea around 6 AM. It's recommended to pack your trekking gear into a duffel bag and keep essential items in your day pack during the early morning. After breakfast, the trek begins around 8 AM. The morning trek is longer, taking advantage of your refreshed energy and enthusiasm. Around 11:30 AM, the group stops for lunch, where you can enjoy a meal and explore the area or relax at your own pace. After an hour or two of rest, the trek resumes, aiming to reach the teahouse or campsite by 3-4 PM. The afternoon trek is shorter and may include activities like games or side trips arranged by the guides. Along the way, you can take breaks to relax, read, explore, or engage with locals to observe their lifestyle. Dinner is served around 7 PM, marking the end of the day.


4. Meals and Accommodation
During the length of the trek, the accommodation style is commonly referred to as a teahouse. These are family-run basic lodges that fill the role of a restaurant, meeting place, and boarding house for tourists. Electricity can be found in the rooms, which means one light bulb, and one or two outlets for charging electronics. The common areas are also lit by electricity. Teahouses may use solar, hydroelectric, or have electrical lines running into the village, so the commonality and availability of electricity may vary.

Most teahouses have private rooms, though if the trek is in a more remote or high-altitude place, dormitories are the norm. Each room has 1 or 2 single beds with basic bedding, and the bathroom is shared. Expect a mix of western and squat-style toilets in the bathrooms.

Breakfast and dinner are taken at the teahouse, and these lodges have large family-style dining rooms centered on a stove to provide heat. The menu will have Nepali-style western foods such as pasta, pizza, pancakes, burgers, and fries. Also on the menu is the traditional Dal Bhat meal, a lentil soup with rice and vegetable or meat curry. Most menus will also offer a smattering of local cuisine.


5. Internal Flight Delays
Nepal is a stunning country of mountains, valleys, rivers, and lush hills, but this diverse landscape makes road travel time-consuming. As a result, domestic flights are often essential for reaching popular trekking destinations. However, the mountainous terrain also increases the likelihood of inclement weather, and during peak seasons, the high number of visitors can lead to frequent internal flight delays. To manage this, it’s wise to plan for a few extra days on either side of your tour.

Flight delays, especially between Kathmandu and Lukla (the gateway to the Everest region), are common. To stay on schedule, we offer services to arrange helicopter transfers if needed, adhering to Nepal's Civil Aviation Rules, which allow helicopters to fly with 1500m of visibility. The cost for this service ranges from USD 350 to USD 650, depending on the number of passengers. Payment can be made directly to the helicopter company or to us, by cash or credit card.

It's also helpful to review your travel insurance, as some policies may cover alternative travel arrangements in the event of delays or cancellations. Flight insurance may also cover changes to your international flights if necessary.


6. Travel Insurances
Many expeditions and tours require purchasing travel insurance before arriving in Nepal, though some treks and tours may not. Nevertheless, travel insurance is a crucial consideration. First, check if the company you're booking with mandates it. Since Nepal is a landlocked country with limited direct flights, disruptions can occur. Make sure your insurance covers flight delays and cancellations. Additionally, despite all precautions, unforeseen accidents can happen. Ensure your policy covers trekking or other activities, as some insurers may exclude coverage for certain areas. Having the right insurance ensures peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your trip without worry. Take the time to research and select a plan that meets your needs.


7. Nepal Visa Entry Procedures
For entry into Nepal, visitors (except Indian nationals) must hold a passport and valid visa. The Nepal visa entry procedure can be completed at the Nepalese embassies or consulates abroad. A Nepal visa can also be obtained at entry points like Kathmandu international airport upon arrival. No visa fee is required for children under 10 years of age. To get a Nepal visa, you must fill out a form with truthful information, passport details, and a photograph.

Visa on Arrival Tourist Visa
Visa Facility Duration Fee
Three options are available for entry:
Single entry 15 days: US $30
Single entry 30 days: US $50
Multiple entry 90 days: US $125

Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the time of entry. Have cash ready in US dollars. For more information and an up-to-date list of visa exemptions or to obtain the most current visa details, visit the Nepal Department of Immigration website.


8. Acute Mountain Sickness
Acute mountain sickness is common at high altitudes and depends on the elevation, the rate of ascent, and individual susceptibility. Symptoms tend to be worse at night and include headache, loss of appetite, lethargy, nausea, breathlessness, hopelessness, and irritability. An altitude over 3000 meters (9843 feet) is usually defined as high altitude. Treks are designed to properly acclimatize you to changes in high-altitude climates, and sufficient precautionary measures are taken. Our staff is equipped with cell phones and satellite phones for emergencies. The safety and security of our clients are always our foremost concern.


9. Drinking Water
Water is essential for life, and clean water is imperative while on holiday. When choosing to visit less-developed countries, all travelers should consider safe drinking options. Tap water should not be ingested, even for brushing your teeth. Most travelers buy bottled water, but ensure the cap has not been tampered with. Since plastic waste is an issue, consider using alternatives like water filters or purification tablets. Your guide can help steer you to safe drinking options.


10. Arrival Instructions
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our company representatives will welcome you to the country. Look for your name being held by our representatives as you exit. They will escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Be cautious of people offering to carry your luggage. Pay attention to your belongings to avoid complications.


11. Can We Customize a Private Trek?
Depending on the situation, you can modify your trek slightly after consulting your guide. However, the trek completion date must coincide with the original itinerary. In the remote Himalayan regions, unforeseen events may require changes to the itinerary. In such cases, our team or your senior guide will suggest the best alternative plan that closely matches the original itinerary.

Price Per Person

USD$3190

No. of Person

Why Choose Us

How Much Does This Trip Cost?

The price of the trip varies based on the type of services selected and the size of the group. Each trip we organize is priced differently because we consider travelers as individuals with unique needs and preferences.

Prepare for an incredible journey customized to your interests and preferences, whether you’re seeking a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious escape. Leave the planning to us—we’ll handle all the details to make your dream trip a reality. You can relax and focus on creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

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