Lower Dolpo Trek - 21 Days

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Recommended by 99% of travelers
Duration
21 Days
Trip Grade
Challenging
Maximum Altitude
5,360 m.
Activities
Trekking, Climbing, Cultural Exploration, Photoshot
Group Size
20
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Best Time
Autumn and Spring

The Lower Dolpo Trek is one of the hidden treasures of Nepal, offering a journey into untouched landscapes and a window into the spiritual depth of Tibetan and Bon Po culture. Nestled in the remote western part of Dolpo, this trek leads you through high mountain passes and across rain-shadowed valleys to surrealistic landscapes. Every step brings you deeper into the rare beauty of a region, where both land and people reflect the quiet traditions of Tibetan life. Explore Lower Dolpo Trek and have unlimited adventure with fun.

Visit Shey Gompa in Lower Dolpo Trek

The Lower Dolpo trek will take you in a loop through ancient villages, shepherd huts, and a stunning variety of flora and fauna, all against the magnificent backdrop of the Himalayas. You will find ancient Buddhist monasteries, like the 500-year-old Shey Gompa, and come across a glimpse of the pre-Buddhist Bon Po religion.

Most of this trekking trail lies within Shey Phoksundo National Park, a realm of Pine, Juniper, and Fir trees, sprinkled with colorful alpine flowers during the season. This is also a home for quite rare wildlife that may surprise you on the trail. Keep your eyes open for the elusive snow leopard, musk deer, Himalayan Thar, and even the Himalayan black bear.

The surrealistically beautiful Shey Phoksundo Lake is the highlight of Lower Dolpo Trek. Overnight stay by the turquoise lake with the snow-capped peaks reflected in its glassy waters is an unforgettable experience. Further northeast from Ringmo village, you will find a short climb rewarding with fascinating views. Though the trail is rough, it is every bit worth it for the views that you will get.

The unique geography of Dolpo, lying in the rain shadow, promises breathtaking vistas at each turn. While hiking through rugged terrain and high mountain passes like the Numa La Pass at 5,159 meters, one gets to have sweeping views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), Mt. Api (7,132 m), Mt. Nilgiri, Kagmara Ri (5,115 m) which are one of the most breathtaking peaks in Nepal.

Numa La pass, and Baga La pass in Lower Dolpo Trek

As you continue, you will reach villages like Tarakot and Dho Tarap, showing the real Himalayan Buddhist way of life. Dho Tarap is a very friendly village, full of warm-hearted locals and small shops where you can buy some nice souvenirs. Fantastic views of Mount Dhaulagiri and the ragged peaks of Tibet open up as you cross the passes, the Numa La 5,159m, and Baga La, 5,190m.

Here at Touch Planet Treks, we invite you to join one of our unparalleled expeditions into this enchanting trail with a uniquely crafted Lower Dolpo Trek itinerary. Take this opportunity and book for the years 2024 and 2025 as well. We have made flexible packages to suit your time frame, budget, and endurance level, customizing a unique experience for every trekker. You will be guided by expert guides to go around amazing sights such as Shey Phoksundo Lake and ancient monasteries, digging into insights about the cultures. For more detailed information on cost, or other modifications, please don't hesitate to contact us, allowing Touch Planet Treks to help you create some lifetime memories.

Highlights - Lower Dolpo Trek

  • Get stunning views of snowcapped peaks, green valleys, and crystal-clear lakes, especially turquoise-colored Phoksundo Lake.
  • Observe ancient Tibetan Buddhism while visiting some of the remote villages, monasteries, and traditional houses to interact with the local people and experience their lifestyles.
  • 500-year-old Shey Gompa is a significant Buddhist monastery that provides insights into the spiritual heritage and architectural beauty with a dramatic backdrop.
  • The Dolpo region therefore happens to be a nature lover's paradise due to unique wildlife such as the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan blue sheep, and various species of birds.
  • Walk Through thrilling Numa La Pass, 5,159 meters above sea level, and Baga La Pass, 5,190 meters above sea level, and enjoy the panoramic views and immerse yourself in nature's serene beauty during a trek through one of Nepal's remotest areas, far from modern day life.
  • Obtain knowledge about the various floras, including medicinal herbs and flowers that come into view as one makes way through different altitudes and climates of the trek.
  • Apart from Shey Gompa, the visit to ancient stupas and other monasteries offers great insights into the rich spiritual and cultural traditions of Dolpo.
  • These are villages that one would be passing through Dunai, Tarakot, and Ringmo, all the more picturesque ones, where tradition and style of living are still intact, therefore giving an ideal view of the local people's lives.
  • Fewer trekkers on the trails compared with more popular routes make the Lower Dolpo Trek more intimate and tranquil, which provides much deeper connections with nature and culture.

Explore the Enigmatic Beauty of Lower Dolpo Trek

Lower Dolpo lies in the northwestern part of Nepal, presenting a rugged and untouched panorama, also rich cultural records, and unique biodiversity. Tibet borders Dolpa to the north, with the districts of Mugu and Jumla to the west and south. The place features towering mountains, deep valleys, alpine meadows, and barren terrain. Lower Dolpo trek is domestic to the Dolpo people, who have a distinct cultural lifestyle prompted by Tibetan Buddhism.

Indeed Lower Dolpo Trek offers several of the maximum hard and health profitable hiking routes in Nepal. The most famous hiking trail inside the location is the Upper Dolpo Trek. The trek takes trekkers through remote villages, pristine forests, high mountain passes, as well as breathtaking landscapes. The trek also offers the possibility to stumble upon a specific natural world. And revel in the traditional lifestyles of the Dolpo people.

Best Season for Lower Dolpa Trek

Upper Western is one of the fascinating regions of Nepal which has the majestic Lower Dolpo Trek, which lies at a higher altitude with lighter rainfall in the monsoon season. Due to this unique climate, you can go on a trek even when the rains pour down. However, the ideal time for the Lower Dolpo Trek would be during the vibrantspring months or the photogenic autumn months. Winter is, on the other hand, extremely severe and difficult to bear, making it inadequate for trekking purposes. In this season, however, one may take into consideration other adventurous options such as Annapurna Base Camp and Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.

How does the Lower Dolpo Trek Begin and End?

Lower Dolpo Trek begins when you arrive on a flight at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Checking into a hotel, one embarks on a first-day sightseeing tour of this ancient town, including Swayambhunath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple to get an idea about cultural aspects. Then you will fly on a marvelous and panoramic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj the very next day, which is a busy center for all travelers who want to enter the far western areas of the country.

From Nepalgunj, the trip continues by flying to Jumla, which is regarded as the actual commencement of the trekking adventure. Next Day you will get on a flight from Juphal back to Nepalgunj after exploring one of the most breathtaking landscapes and culture that Lower Dolpo has to offer. The trek finishes with an afternoon flight back to Kathmandu, enabling guests to enjoy a final full day of shopping and sightseeing before departing for their next destination, no doubt with many happy memories of a truly unique adventure.

Why Choose Touch Planet Trek for Lower Dolpo Trek

Challenging adventures like Lower Dolpo Trek demand very careful attention to choosing the right team. At Touch Planet Treks, we have led many treks in Nepal with a skillful guide and porters trained in map reading, emergency rescue, and first aid medical kit, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of our guests. We recommend a minimum group size of two upwards for any size group. However, solo travelers and larger groups are also welcome. Please, contact us to address any questions you may have, and let us tailor your trek departure to your schedule for an unforgettable experience amidst the spectacular scenery of Lower Dolpo!

Lower Dolpo Trek Required Permit and Its Cost

The Lower Dolpo and Upper Dolpo are under the restricted areas of Nepal. So, the trekkers must get a special permit to enter these magnificent territories of the Himalayas. A lower Dolpo trek permit fee of USD 500 per person has been levied for 10 days in the Lower Dolpo trekking. Beyond this time frame, one should pay additional fees of USD 50 per day per head.

Apart from the special permit, another important document trekkers need to get is a TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System), it costs NPR 2,000 (USD 16) for individual trekkers and NPR 1,000 (USD 8) for group trekkers.

Note that the Lower Dolpo can be trekked only be organized through a registered trekking agency, and it must be guided by a licensed guide.

Lower Dolpo Trek Cost 2025

The full cost of the Lower Dolpo Trek with Touch Planet Treks in 2025 is from USD 3,200 to USD 3,800 per person. However, depends on the various aspects included in your package and the services you require. Likewise, we provide different options for trekking, either in a group environment or on a private basis, whichever is your preference.

On, the Trek the most important part is the permit, and we help you to get the Shey Phoksundo National Park permit, which enables you to see the most beautiful landscapes and a variety of wildlife in the area. Our team will also help you to get a restricted area permit that gives you access to restricted areas for trekking.

These experienced guides and porters are invaluable during your trek. They raise the level of safety and quality of time spent in the mountains. Our accommodations range from simple, local tea houses to quaint guesthouses, which allow you to acclimate to the culture of a particular village. Touch Planet Treks invites you on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the magical beauty of Lower Dolpo.

Note

Lower Dolpo Trek is a Hidden Treasures of Nepal

Itinerary

Lower Dolpo Trek Itinerary Details.

Trip PlanExpand all

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, our Touch Planet Treks representative will welcome you while travelers land at Kathmandu airport. And escorting our guests to the hotel in a comfortable private vehicle. Once you reach the hotel, you can unwind for a while, and you can go explore the local market. A welcome dinner and team briefing will be organized by the company.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m Meals: Welcome DinnerAccommodation: 3 Star Standard Hotel

Wake up early in the morning and have your delicious Himalayan breakfast. At that time the van will be waiting outside your hotel, and travelers will move to have an amazing Kathmandu Valley sightseeing. We start our journey from Bouddhnath Stupa, which is the largest Buddhist Stupa in Nepal. You will explore around and go to Pashupatinath Temple, which is the biggest Hindu-believer temple in the world. From there, we will head to Patan Durbar Square to explore around and take a picture for memories. Just for your info, these sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. After Patan, we will have lunch in the local restaurant and head to the Swayambhunath Stupa, which is also called the Monkey Temple. You can explore around and take some glimpses while observing the joyful monkeys. Finally, we will move to Kathmandu Durbar Square, explore around, take pictures of the heritage, and explore the museum. By the way, for the valley sightseeing, we have many places to go. The package will come with 4 sites, so you can choose your favorite one. Then we will be moving to the hotel, and you can have rest and preparation for the trekking tomorrow.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: 3 Star Standard Hotel

Early morning you will leave for the airport from the hotel. The flight duration would be approximately 45 minutes from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. Nepalgunj Airport is a small domestic airport. While in Nepalgunj you can explore the local market we will wait for another flight to Dolpa Jupal Airport. If the weather is not clear, then we will stay at Nepaljunj in the hotel. This is like an extra day for the trips we will decide as per the contemporary situation.

Max Altitude: 150 m Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

We will wait to fly to Juphal (Dolpa) and then trek to Raktang. A flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal will take around 35-45 minutes; depending on the weather conditions. Upon arrival at Jhupal Airport, collect your baggage, and we will start to trek. You may want to spend a night in Jhupal or Dunai (the district headquarters, a short distance from Jhupal) to acclimatize and prepare for the trek. The trek usually starts with a short hike from Jhupal to Gothi Chour, which takes about 2–3 hours. Gothi Chour is a good place to rest and stock up on supplies.

Max Altitude: 2,650 m Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Tea House

Gothi Chaur to Napukhana is a remote trail in the Dolpa region in Nepal. Which is a Scenic and adventurous trail. Scenic and challenging terrain would make the trek unforgettable. Wake up early morning you will have your healthy breakfast then start trekking to Napukhana. Trekking from Gotho Chaut to Napukhana would take approximately 6-7 hours depending on the trekker's speed. Overnight stay in a hotel at Napukhana.

Max Altitude: 3,625 m Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Tea House

Wake up morning with the birds singing. The mountain is so amazing and majestic. Have your Himalayan organic breakfast and get ready for the trek to Chaurokot. Around 8 am in the morning, we will be moving from the hotel. The trail is amazing; you would explore the amazing Himalayan terrains, flora, and fauna in the background of the gorgeous Himalayas. The elevation of Chaurokot is approximately 3,060 m above sea level. However, trekking from Napukhana to Chaurokot would take around 6-7 hours. The trail is mostly uphill and downhill. Trekkers will trek through lush forests and encounter the local villages. Once you reach Chaurokot, you will be staying in the local lodge.

Max Altitude: 3,060 m Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Tea House

From Chaurikot we will be heading to Bheri Riverside, while trekking to Bheri Riverside the trail will be flat and downhill. We will pass by the Bheri riverside banks. While on the journey, trekkers will explore the gorgeous Dhaulagiri Mountain and the beautiful, clean Bheri River. The trekking trail would be around 7 hours depending on the trekker's speed and weather. Once you reach the Bheri Riverside, you will have rest by having organic tea or coffee. Overnight you will stay at the hotel after having dinner.

Max Altitude: 2,610 m Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Tea House

You will wake up with the amazing sounds of the Bheri River, get refreshed, and have your organic local breakfast, which is made with love and craft, and it will be delicious. After breakfast, we will be heading to Garpung Khola. The elevation of the Garpung Khola is approximately 3655 m above sea level. The trekking time would be 5-6 hours, depending on the trekker's speed. While on the journey, you will make the amazing Dhaulagiri Mountain your backdrop. The beautiful Bheri River will say goodbye to your Dolpo Trek with a genuine smile. Once you reach Garpung Khola around late afternoon, you will have hot tea that will help you to acclimatize and rest. After some time, have your delicious dinner and overnight stay at Tea House.

Max Altitude: 3650 m Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Tea House

Today you will be heading to the Kagmara Phedi, which is the lower part of the popular Kagmara-La pass (5,115 m). After 6–8 hours of trekking, you will reach Kagmara Phedi, which is at an elevation of approximately 4100 meters. While on the train, you will encounter varieties of vegetation, wild animals, and varieties of colorful birds. Some way you will encounter the Himalayan Thar leaning in the high mountains. Today you might feel colder; make sure to wear warm clothes. We will be having lunch in the middle of the trail. Late afternoon, we will be arriving at the Kagmara Phedi. We can have hot tea to warm your body and unwind from the long trail. In the evening, have your organic, delicious dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Max Altitude: 4,060 m Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Hotel/ Lodge

Today you will be crossing the Kagmara-La pass, which is approximately 5,115 m. above the sea level. Before heading to a trek, make sure to wear warm clothes and trekking boots. The trail today is challenging but is lifetime rewarding; you will never erase it from your memories. Crossing the Kaagmara-La pass, you will trek along the beautiful Kaagmara-La glacier. After the pass, the trail will be downhill till the Pungmo Khola Valley. The valley is approximately 3,050 m. above sea level. Today trekking hours might be longer due to the high altitude and challenging route. However, once you reach the Pungmo Khola Valley, unwind in the hotel and have a delicious meal, overnight stay at the hotel.

Max Altitude: 5,115 m Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Tea house

After having your morning breakfast, you will be heading to the beautiful Phoksundo Lake. Trekking time could be around 5-7 hours depending on the trekker's speed and the weather conditions. The elevation of Phoksundo Lake is approximately 3,612 m above sea level. It is an alpine freshwater lake, which is so amazing. Se-Phoksundo Lake was designated as a Ramsar site in 2007 AD. You can explore more than 20 stupas on the southern side and one beautiful gumpa in the eastern. Side. However, once you arrive at Phoksundo Lake, you will be transferred to the hotel and explore the surrounding areas.

Max Altitude: 3,612 m. Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Tea House

Today is a relaxing day, you don’t have to hurry up, you wake up early morning and explore the beautiful moments or sleep till late morning. After you wake up get refreshed have your delicious breakfast and explore the beautiful morning, sunshine around the snow-capped mountains. Phaksundo is known as the deepest lake in Nepal, which looks amazing. Experience and discover the gorgeous Phaksundo Lake and Gumpa around.  Also, magnificent Kanjiroba mountain you can explore. Which gives you peace and spiritual feelings. Have lunch and can do the small hiking and overnight stay at Phoksundo in the hotel.

Max Altitude: 3,612 m. Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Tea House

Wake up in the morning with the beautiful sunrise and feel the moments around the Phkosundo Lake it will be amazing and spiritual. After some time, you will be heading to Bagala Phedi, which is approximately 3, 900 m above sea level. The trekking distance is 14 to 16 kilometers and it will take 6-7 hours to trek. Along the way, you will pass by various terrains, beautiful landscapes, lush forests, and villages. During the trek, you will have lunch in the middle of the trek. Once you reach Bagala Phedi you will be transferred to the hotel and rest some time by having hot tea or coffee and exploring around. In the evening have a delicious dinner and go to bed for the unwind from a long trek.

Max Altitude: 3,900 m. Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Tea House

Wake up early in the morning and get refreshed. You will have your early breakfast and be heading to Numa-La Phedi. Today you will pass the Baga-La, which is the second-highest pass for the whole Lower Dolpo Trek. Baga-La Pass is approximately 5,090 m above sea level. It is challenging but rewarding in your lifetime achievement. After the Baga-La pass, you will be trekking gradually, and after crossing the stream, you will ascend to Numa-La Phedi, which is Lower Numa-La. Traveling time for today would be 6–8 hours, depending on trekkers speed and weather. Once you reach Numa-La Phedi, you will be staying in a camp or tea house. In some seasons the tea house might not be available; in this case, you will be staying in a tent. After having dinner, you will go to unwind from the long trek.

Max Altitude: 4,800 m Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Camp/ Tea House

Wake up this morning and explore the beautiful sunrise over the Himalayas. Have morning hot tea and breakfast. After you get ready, trek to Numa-La Cross, which is 5,360 m above sea level. And you will continue the trek to Do, which is approximately 4120 m above sea level. Today total trekking distance would be 16–17 KM., and trekking time would be 6–8 hours depending on the trekkers and weather conditions. The Numa-La high pass is the last for this trip. The trail for today is uphill and downhill. Along the trail, you will pass by streams, lush forests, and small villages, and encounter varieties of vegetation and animals. Which makes your trek a thrilling and unforgettable trip. Once you reach Do, you will be staying in the Tea House, where you can have hot tea, coffee, and warm shelter. In the evening, have a delicious dinner and unwind from the challenging trekking.

Max Altitude: 5,360 m Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Tea House

Wake up morning, refresh yourself, and you will have a delicious breakfast. After breakfast, you will be trekking to the Lahini. Today the trail is gradually descending, some flat and a little uphill. The trekking distance is 12–14 km from Do, and it will take 5–6 hours to trek. Lahini is situated approximately 3,560 m. above sea level. During the trail, you will pass by beautiful villages, streams, and lush forests. While on the way, we will have our lunch in a local tea house. Once you reach Lahini, you will be transferred to the tea house, where you can relax, have hot tea, and unwind yourself.

Max Altitude: 3,560 m Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Tea House

Today we are already in the lower altitude; most of the challenging trekking has been finished. So, relax and focus on exploring the small villages and the ways of their lives and cultures. However, wake up in the morning, have your healthy breakfast, and get ready for the trek to Tarakot. The elevation of Trakot is approximately 2,615 m above sea level. You will trek along the Bheri River and upstream. The trail is gradually down and flat; it is about 12–145 kilometers. Trekking time would be 5–6 hours, depending on the trekkers. Further trekking to the open valley will lead you to the beautiful Khanigaun village. You pass by many bridges, streams, isolated villages, and gorges, so you will arrive at the Trarakot. Once you reach Tarakot, you will be transferred to the hotel and have hot tea or coffee overnight. Stay in the hotel after the delicious dinner.

Max Altitude: 2,615 m. Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Tea House/ Guest House

Wake up early in the morning, get refreshed yourself, and have a delicious supper organic breakfast. After breakfast, explore the Tarakot, the friendly local people, and their culture. Get ready for the trek to Dunai, which is the Dolpa district headquarters. Dunai is situated approximately 2,150 meters above sea level. Today you will trek around 4–5 hours to reach Dunai, which is approximately 10–12 kilometers. You will follow the path along the Barbung Khola till to the Lawan. If you feel hungry, we can have lunch in Lawan. From Lawan, cross the bridge over the stream and continue trekking for a few hours until you reach the Dunai. Once you reach Dunai, you will be transferred to the hotel, where you can unwind with tea or coffee. In the evening, explore around the Dunai, discover the local culture, and meet friendly locals. Overnight stay at the hotel after having dinner.

Max Altitude: 2,150 m. Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Hotel

Wake up morning, have your delicious breakfast, and get ready to trek to Juphal. The elevation of Jhuphal is approximately 2,500 m above sea level. The trekking distance for today is around 9–10 kilometers only. In 4–5 hours of walking, you will reach the Juphal. Jhupal is a small settlement but beautiful, where you can explore the amazing culture and the way of life. Today is the last day of the amazing Lower Dolpo Trek. The trail will be mostly gradual down flat and a bit uphill. Once you reach the Juphal, you will be staying in the hotel. If by chance we can find the plane, we may have a flight to Nepalgung

Max Altitude: 2,500 m. Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Hotel

Wake up early morning and have your early morning breakfast. Because we need to catch the morning flight to the Nepalgung. Finding flight in the mountains is crucial due to the unpredictable weather. Juphal to Nepalgung will take 35-40 minutes to reach and Nepalgung to Kathmandu will take 45 minutes. Once you reach Kathmandu you will transfer to the luxury hotel where you can unwind from the long Dolpo Trekking.

Max Altitude: 150 m Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

Today is your leisure day; you can relax with no barrier of timing as you wish. Wake up morning in your own time and have a delicious, healthy breakfast. During the day, you can go for souvenir shopping and explore the local markets like Thamel and Ashan. In the evening we will organize the farewell dinner and achievement celebrations. If ever you have plans to depart today, we could organize the farewell and achievement celebration on the previous day. After finishing the farewell, you will be transferred to the hotel, where you can unwind.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m Meals: Breakfast and Farewell DinnerAccommodation: 3 Star Standard Hotel

Wake up in the morning as per your flight schedule, get refreshed, and have your healthy breakfast. Get ready yourself and pack your luggage and belongings, such as passports, ticket handbags, bags, and other belongings. We will drop you off at the Kathmandu International Airport for the final departure and farewell. There will be a comfortable private vehicle outside the hotel as per your flight schedule. Our representative will knock you there. We will do our final farewell at the airport and say goodbye. Have a safe journey. See you next time. Namaste!

Max Altitude: 1,400 m. Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Till 12 Noon
Cost Details
Includes
  • Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle
  • 3-star standard hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast
  • Kathmandu Pokhara and Pokhara Jomsom Flight back and forth
  • Local vehicles while needed
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • All ground transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary
  • An experienced, English/French/Chinese/German speaking trained and experienced local tour guide and assistant trek leader (10 trekkers: 1 assistant guide)
  • Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
  • Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation
  • Sleeping bag during the trek (to be returned after trip completion)
  • Touch Planet Treks trekking bag/duffel bag for the trekking and t-shirt is yours to take
  • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS)
  • Medical kit during the trek (carried by your trek leader)
  • Certificate of Achievement by Touch Planet Treks after completion of the trek,
  • Seasonal fruits during the trek after dinner
  • All government and local taxes during the trek.
Excludes
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, Highway, and also in Pokhara
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, cold drinks, hot drinks and also hot shower, etc.)
  • Tips for guides and porters
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Essential Information

Lower Dolpo Trek Difficulty

Hence, the Lower Dolpo Trek is taken to be at a moderate level. Thus, it is considered ideal both for frequent trekkers and for beginners. However, if you are a new one in the field of trekking, you might feel the route somewhat challenging, at times with its ruggedness and remoteness. The trail has steep ascents and descents, with most of the time uneven terrain. Though that might sound tough for any first-time trekkers. If you are properly physically fit and determined, then it should not be a problem and they will also enjoy the beauty of the trek.

Trek Duration of Lower Dolpo Trekking

The trek duration is around 21 days, with moderate walking of 5-6 hours per day. Physically, this may get tough if one is not used to long hikes. Continuous walking for almost a month is tiring and exhausting, especially for those who do not walk at all. For people with busy schedules, the length of the trek might also be challenging. However, the best thing is always to take your time and not hurry, it shall all be worth it with the rewards of the trek.

Altitude Sickness in Lower Dolpo Trek

Since this is a trek that will take one to an altitude above 4,000 meters, altitude sickness can be a real risk. It even affects the most experienced trekkers. Symptoms are usually headaches, nausea, and disrupted sleep patterns. To minimize risks, hydration, and acclimatization should be done. If any symptoms start to show up, it is recommended to notify your guide, then the guide will assist in whatever is needed to ensure safety.

While these are challenges, appropriately prepared and attitudinally right,Lower Dolpo Trek is an unforgettable adventure.

Accommodation Options on the Lower Dolpo Trek

The 21 Days Lower Dolpo Trek contains different categories of accommodation options, which depend on route and trekking style. Below is a short overview of what you will experience:

  • 3 Star Standard Hotels: During Your Stay at Kathmandu and Pokhara you will be residing in 3 Star Standard properties, with all the facilities like continental breakfast, hot showers, and service staff.
  • Tea Houses: Basic and simple family-run hotels along main trekking trails. Expect shared rooms with bunk beds and shared bathrooms.
  • Camping Trek: On a camping trek, you are supposed to bring your tent and all other gear for camping. However, your guide will help you find appropriate camping sites throughout the journey. (Optional)
  • Homestay: In some of the remotest villages homestay is possible. Which provides ample opportunity to be enclosed in the culture, and also live with the locals.
  • Lodges: In some regions, one can even find lodges that come with private rooms and attached bathrooms to offer better comfort in comparison.

Note that accommodations in the Lower Dolpo region can be pretty basic, and amenities such as electricity or hot showers may not always be available. Be prepared for some serious, rugged trekking, and pack your gear with that in mind. Discuss what kind of accommodation you want with your guide before the start of your trek, so that he may provide you with suitable options, and be very flexible about these.

How to prepare for Lower Dolpo Treks

Undoubtedly, the excitement of being a part of Lower Dolpo Trek is there, but one needs preparation so that one may have safety and enjoyment. A few of the necessary steps regarding preparation are hereby mentioned, which will help an individual to get prepared for this great journey:

Physical Training: The physical training should be initiated months in advance before the main trek. Incorporate some cardiovascular exercises into your routine, including hiking, running, and cycling. Combine these with strength conditioning to improve stamina. Hence, this preparation enables you to increase your capacity and easily negotiate Dolpo's complicated topography with fewer injuries and a stabilized energy level.

Acclimatization: Acclimatization at higher altitudes before the start of the trek is always a better approach as it reduces the impact of altitude sickness. This is because, for every altitude rise, the surrounding air becomes thinner, and acclimatization is your body's way of dealing with such scenarios during the middle part of the trek.

Equipment and Gear Lower Dolpo Trek

Avail good-quality hiking gear such as strong hiking boots, warm clothes, and a good rucksack. Your shoes should fit well, and you are to wear appropriate clothes concerning the weather so that you will not feel discomfort during your journey. If you don't have something mentioned above, you better rent or buy what you need long in advance.

Permissions and Visas: Dolpo is a region of a restricted area for which special permission is required to enter and thus needs a visa too. Complete all the procedures and arrangements of permissions before commencing the trek, which gives you entry to this fabulous yet restricted area.

Research the Trek: Learn about the route of the trek, the cultural and natural points of interest, and the challenges along the way. Knowledge of the landscape and local customs heightens your experience, you will surely feel more sure-footed on your journey.

Take a guide: It's a very good idea that the inexperienced expeditioner takes on this expedition with the services of a local guide. One who would give insight, help in navigating the terrain, and assist when necessary to make the experience easier.

Lower Dolpo Trek Packing List, Gears, Equipment

This Lower Dolpa Trekking gear list prepared by Touch Planet Treks will help prepare you for an unforgettable high-altitudetrekking adventure. Moreover, most items on this list are required gear. Take your time to consider each item and its purpose also make a knowledgeable decision about what you will want to pack in your luggage.

Travel Essentials Likewise

  • Duffel Bags
  • Daypack
  • Locks
  • Travel Wallet
  • Passport
  • Trekking Gear
  • Trekking Poles
  • Backpack
  • Pack Cover
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Sleeping Pad

Footwear

  • Lightweight Shoes
  • Hiking Boots
  • Gaiters
  • Socks
  • Clothing
  • Base Layer
  • Mid Layers
  • Shell Jacket
  • Shell Pants
  • Trekking Pants
  • Parka
  • Trekking Clothes: Lightweight hiking pants or shorts (avoid cotton), along with moisture-wicking shirts are recommended for warm days.
  • Casual Wear: Include collared shirts for dining and travel, along with a sweatshirt also a jacket for evenings.
  • Swimwear

Clothing and Accessories for Lower Dolpo Trek

  • Gloves
  • Hats
  • Camping Gear
  • Headlamp
  • Water Bottles
  • Water Treatment
  • Camera
  • Pocket Knife

Personal Items

  • Wristwatch
  • Eyewear
  • Vision Correction
  • Skincare
  • Basic first aid medical kit
  • Prescription Medications
  • Personal Snacks
  • Pee Bottle
Ramjee Neupane (Neo)
Need Help? Contact our Expert
October 20, 2023
Amazing Vacation

It was a great experience with this trekking and tour. I had precious time with friends. Thank you Touch Planet Treks for your wonderful hospitality, the staff was amazing, we had...

read more +
Amelia
Amelia
- Australia
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