Lower Dolpo Trek

Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek is sum of exceptional trekking experience in the remote western region of Nepal. The 18-day trek starts with a stunning flight to Jhupal via Nepalgunj and begins our trek through remote locations admiring the beautiful rain shadow landscape of the Himalayas, reflected in the colorful barren slopes of the mountains where the play of light and shadow is a perpetual fascinating spectacle. Thanks to Eric Valli, a French geographical photographer working for National Geographic, the Dolpo region of Nepal has been shown in all its integrity and full mystical experience. Furthermore, this is also one of the few areas where the pre-Buddhist Bon Po religion is still practiced. While on the trek, we get to muse at the yak caravans that maintain the traditional salt trade with Tibet. We also cross two high passes- Numa La and Baga La-and reflect on life amidst the tranquil waters of Phoksundo Lake.

Trip Highlights

Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek Highlights
EXplore less travelled an isolated area in Lower Dolpo.
Thrilling high altitude pass of Numala and Bagala Pass both above 5000 meter
Rejoice pristine Shey Phoksundo Lake alongside with an entry to the National Park
Discover centuries old Bon-Buddhist practices in different monasteries
Wonderful trekking experience in the desert-like rain shadow area of the Dolpo region
Witness the enticing views of Yak Caravan and got to walk on the ancient salt trade route
Feel enticed by the sight of diverse flora and fauna of the region

Itinerary

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1
Day 01:Welcome to Kathmandu

Welcome to Kathmandu, your agent from Guide in Himalaya will pick us up from the airport and take us to our hotel. In the afternoon, we may take a rest or visit our sales office at Thamel. In the evening, there will be a short briefing by your Guide in Himalaya. Overnight in Samsara Resort or similar Hotel in Kathmandu.

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Day 02:Kathmandu; the city temples

It is an extra day in Kathmandu for trekking preparation; alternatively we can arrange a guided sightseeing to historical and spiritual sites in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambhunath) and Buddhist shrine (Bouddhanath), which is one of the largest stupas in the world. At noon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. Guide is Himalaya will brief you about your trek again for next day departure and provide us with an opportunity to ask any questions we may have regarding our upcoming adventure. Overnight in Kathmandu.

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Day 03:Board to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu

After a nice breakfast; escort to domestic airport and catch an hour-long flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, located in Western Nepal. Nepalgunj, a town near the Nepal-India border, is also the gateway to Simikot, Humla. The town itself is an interesting Terai town that showcases the diverse culture of Nepal. In Nepalgunj, we visit the local market, mini-zoo and nearby villages. Overnight in Nepalgunj.

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Day 04:Fly to Jhupal (7,610ft) and trek to Dunai (9,348ft)

After hot breakfast we board to Jhupal that takes 45 minutes by flight. The town is beautifully located over the Himalayan foothills, with views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks to its north. Here, we meet our trekking staff and begin the adventure. We walk through terraced fields to the Bheri River and its narrow gorge. We continue walking to Dunai which is the administrative headquarter of the Dolpo region. It will take around 3 hours walk today. We discover the small town in the evening and camp there for the night.

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Day 05:Trekking to Tarakot (8,700ft)

The journey continues along the southern bank of the Bheri River heading upstream on an easy trail. Along the way, we pass through several deep gorges, hanging bridges and isolated villages. Our trail also includes a tremendous gorge with pine trees and a path built about seven meters above the river. After walking for a while, we will be greeted by the colorful, terraced field of Tarakot, a small village that stands on a hillock to the south of the Bheri River. Overnight in Tarakot.

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Day 06:Trekking to Laini (10,365 ft)

Trek alongside Tarap Chu river and cross it twice before getting Sandul Gompa. The monastery lies at a juncture between Barbung Khola and Tarap Chu river. We carry on and keep trekking on a trail that brings us through farm terraces and rural villages. After ascending and descending for a while, we finally reach Laini. 6-7 hours walk today. Overnight in Laini.

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Day 07:Trekking to Nawarpani (11,627 ft)

Ascend on a steep track and walk along switchback above the Tarap River. The walk is quite thrilling as the valley becomes a narrow gorge that in some places you can jump from one side to another. Several vigorous climbs and descents will take us to the banks of the Chyugur Khola, from where we reach Nawarpani. 6 Hours walk today. Overnight in Nawarpani.

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Day 08:Trekking to Dho Tarap (13450ft)

Today’s trek bigens with gradual ascend to Kamattarka at the confluence of the Tarap Chu and Lang Khola. We cross a narrow gorge and leave the tree line behind us and welcome wild rose and juniper bushes, typical of the dry inner Himalayan valleys. After walking for several more hours, we reach the village of Dho Tarap which is surrounded by an irregular stone wall. In this Valley both Bon Po and Chaiba religious sects reside together. Tarap is also inhabited by a few Tibetans and mostly Magars who have lived here for many generations. 7-8 hours walk today. Overnight in Do Tarap Village.

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Day 09:Acclimatization day in Dho Village

The rest day will help with adaptation of high altitude and allow some bodily rest. We can use the day visiting nearby monasteries. During today’s short walks, we also get a chance to get acquainted with the local culture. The Dolpo people wear homespun clothing that is sometimes dyed a maroon color and they favor Tibetan style somba or dhocha (boots with upturned toes) for foot wear. Both men and women often wear religious amulets and strings of coral, amber and turquoise. The people of the region are both Bon Po and Nyingmapa (Buddhist sects). Overnight in Do Tarap.

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Day 10:Trekking to Numa La Base Camp (14,500 ft)

Trekking towards the upper Tarap valley with pleasing views of lush grasslands on both sides of the river which is unique to this part of the inner Dolpo. We walk alongside Tarap Chu river and take pleasure in the amazing views of the vast Tarap valley with its wide plains and high mountains. A few hours' good walk takes us to the village of Tokyu which houses a Buddhist monastery of the Chiba sect. After exploring the monastery, we continue walking up the valley on a rough trail before reaching the Numa La Base Camp. 6-7 hours walk today. Overnight in Numa La Base Camp.

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Day 11:Trek to Pelung Tang (14,645 ft) via Numa La pass (17,025ft)

It will be most demanding day today and one of the longest days of our trek. After breakfast, we begin crossing the Numa La pass on a steep trail all the way up the top ridge of the pass. From the ridge we get an unbelievable view of the barren mountains of Dolpo up to Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m). After getting to the top of Numa La, we descend to camp at Pelung Tang. 8 Hours walk today.

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Day 12:Trekking to Dajok Tang (13,382ft) via Baga La pass (16,630ft)

After breakfast we begin our steep climb up to the top of Baga La pass. From here, we get fantastic views of the dry landscape and the distant snow-capped mountains including Mt. Kanjirowa. We spend some time at the top of the pass taking pictures and generally enjoying the mesmerizing views. Next, we descend to Dajok Tang for an overnight stay.7 Hours walk today

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Day 13:Trekking to Ringmo (11,808ft)

We spend most of today’s trek on trails alongside beautiful pine forests and alpine vegetation. After trekking for a short while on an easy trail with only gradual highs and lows, we arrive at Ringmo Village. The village is a traditional Tibetan village of the Dolpo region. 5-6 hours walk today. Overnight in Ringmo.

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Day 14:Rest day in Ringmo. Excursion to Phoksundo Lake

Today discover the grand Phoksundo Lake and its shores. We see yak caravans moving in and out of Ringmo mostly towards Tibetan borders on remote mountain trails. The scene is even depicted in a Hollywood movie ‘Caravan’ shot mostly in this location. On our way to the lake, we also tour a nearby monastery. Upon reaching the Phoksundo Lake, we can enjoy a relaxing walk on the serene lake’s shores. Overnight at Phoksundo.

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Day 15:Trekking to Shyanta (8265 ft)

We trek downhill to Chepka. From Chepka the trail follows a massive overhanging rock. During our trek, we find many important medicinal minerals which are believed to cure almost anything in this area. The route then passes through villages, before climbing to Shyanta. 6-7 hours walk today. Overnight in Shyanta.

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Day 16:Trekking to Juphal

We march towards Jhupal via Sulighat on a trail surrounded by birch trees. From atop a ridge, we get the most spectacular views of the mountain above us and Jhupal Village below. Utmost caution is required while trekking along this trail. After reaching Jhupal, we can spend our afternoon exploring the busy market town or simply taking a rest. Overnight in Juphal.

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Day 17:Fly to Nepalgunj – Kathmandu

Catch an early flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj followed by connecting flight to Kathmandu. Upon arriving in Kathmandu; we will be transferred to our hotel. There is nothing to do arrange your photos and share emails with travel companions. To celebrate the successful completion of our journey.

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Day 18:Spare day

It is a reserve day in case of bad weather or flight delay that we can use it during our journey to Lower Dolpo as it is always recommended for an extra day or two just in case you need it while trekking in Nepal. Overnight in Kathmandu. Trip ends with your Guide in Himalaya.