Destination
Lower Dolpo Trek: 18-Day Ultimate Itinerary
Duration
18 Days
Trip Grade
Hard
Start/End
Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Best Seasons
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November)
Transport
Private Car/Jeep/Flight
Accommodation
Teahouses/Lodges
Permits
Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, Shey Phoksundo National Park, and TIMS Card
Overview of the Lower Dolpo Trek
The Lower Dolpo trek is one of the most magical trekking experiences in Nepal, which blends natural beauty with cultural exposure and adventurous thrill. Apart from other famous regions like the Annapurna and Everest regions, the Lower Dolpo provides the opportunity to explore even remote and unexplored areas of Nepal.
Located at a distance of approximately 500 km from Kathmandu, the Dolpo is one of the best options for those who are seeking thrills and tranquility.
You will get an opportunity to experience local customs, Nepali culture, and friendly hospitality. The lower Dolpo Circuit trek provides you with insight into Buddhist culture and its significance.
If lucky, you may see a variety of wildlife inhabiting the region, including Blue mountain sheep, Mountain Goats, Jackals, wolves, and Snow Leopards, making this trip even more exotic.
Highlights: Essential Lower Dolpo Trek Facts
Witness Nepal’s deepest, Shey Phoksundo Lake.
One of Nepal’s most isolated regions with raw Himalayan landscapes and ancient trails.
High-altitude passes: Numa La Pass (5,190 m) and Baga La Pass (5,070 m).
Ancient monasteries: Sandul Gompa and Tokyu Monastery
Locals practice age-old Bon and Chaiba Buddhist traditions.
Trek through alpine meadows, dense pine forests, dramatic canyons, and windswept plateaus teeming with medicinal herbs and vibrant wildflowers.
Visit remote settlements: Dho Tarap and Ringmo.
Spot rare Himalayan wildlife: Blue Sheep, Musk deer, and possibly Snow leopards.
Lower Dolpo Trek Attitude and Elevation
Here is the Lower Dolpo Trek Itinerary breakdown table with Day, location, and elevation throughout the Lower Dolpo Trek Nepal.
Day | Location | Altitude | Walking Duration |
1 | Arrival in Kathmandu | 1300 m | – |
2 | Kathmandu to Nepalgunj | 151 m | 45 mins flight |
3 | Nepalgunj to Juphal to Dunai | 2475 m 2140 m | 45 mins flight 2 to 3 hours |
4 | Dunai to Tarakot | 2500 m | 5 to 6 hours |
5 | Tarakot to Laini | 3160 m | 6 to 7 hours |
6 | Laini to Nawarpani | 3545 m | 5 to 6 hours |
7 | Nawarpani to Dho Tarap | 4090 m | 7 to 8 hours |
8 | Dho Tarap (Acclimatization) | 4090 m | – |
9 | Dho Tarap to Numa La Base Camp | 4440 m | 6 to 7 hours |
10 | Numa La Base Camp to Pelung Tang via Numa La Pass | 4465 m 5190 m | 6 to 7 hours |
11 | Pelung Tang to Dajok Tang to via Baga La Pass | 4080 m 5070 m | 5 to 6 hours |
12 | Dajok Tang to Ringmo | 3660 m | 3 to 4 hours |
13 | Ringmo to Shey Phoksundo Lake | 3600 m | 4 to 5 hours |
14 | Shey Phoksundo Lake to Shyanta | 2520 m | 7 to 8 hours |
15 | Shyanta to Juphal | 2500 m | 7 to 8 hours |
16 | Juphal to Nepalgunj | 151 m | 45 mins flight |
17 | Nepalgunj to Kathmandu | 1300 m | 45 mins flight |
18 | Departure from Kathmandu | 1300 m | – |
Lower Dolpo Trek Itinerary: Day-by-Day Breakdown
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1300 m)
You will be picked up from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) and transferred to a hotel in Thamel or nearby Kathmandu.
Stroll around for a trek briefing and get last-minute gear shopping.
Spend an overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (151 m)
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. Enjoy the epic landscapes of Nepal while you are flying over this majestic land.
Flight duration will last approximately 50 minutes, and the drive duration will be around 8 hours.
Overnight stay at Nepalgunj.
Day 3: Fly Nepalgunj to Juphal (2475 m); Trek to Dunai (2140m)
Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (35 mins), then trek 3 hours downhill to Dunai (2,140m).
Sleep in a lodge. Visit Dunai’s village, schools, and hike to Bon Gumba for views.
Day 4: Trek Dunai to Tarakot (2500 m)
5 to 6 hours trek from Dunai to Tarakot(2,687m) through forests, rivers, and remote villages.
You will spend the night in a tea house in Tarakot, a small village on a hill south of the Bheri River.
Day 5: Tarakot to Laini (3160 m)
Today’s 6 to 7 hours of the Lower Dolpo trek will follow the Tarap Chu River to Laini (3160 m).
It takes two crossings of this river to get to Sandul Gompa, which is between the Barbung Khola and Tarap Chu Rivers.
After this, you will keep walking through towns and farms with terraces.
As you climb up and down several times , you get to Laini, where you will spend the night.
Day 6: Laini to Nawarpani (3545 m)
Today’s 5 to 6 hours Lower Dolpo Trek begins with breakfast and a challenging hike over the Tarap River, narrowing into a canyon.
After challenging ascents and descents, you reach Chyugur Khola and Nawarpani, where you stay overnight.
Day 7: Nawarpani to Dho Tarap (4090 m)
A magical 7 to 8 hours walk from Nawarpani began with a gradual climb up to Kamattarka, located at the Tarap Chu River and Lang Khola intersection, which is a popular destination for hikers.
Crossing a canyon, you enter a dry inner Himalayan valley with juniper and rose shrubs.
Continue the Lower Dolpo Terkking Trail to Dho Tarap, a settlement surrounded by stone walls, where you can practice Bon Po and Chaiba religions.
Overnight in Dho Tarap with friendly locals.
Day 8 Acclimatization in Dho Tarap (4090 m)
The Lower Dolpo Trek Itinerary includes a day for acclimatization and recuperation in Dho Tarap village.
This rest day allows exploration, conversation with residents, and understanding of their culture, traditions, and religions, including Chaiba and Bon Po.
Day 9: Dho Tarap to Numa La Base Camp (4440 m)
Dho Tarao to Numa La Base Camp is a 6 to 7-hour hike.
This Lower Dolpo Trekking Trail leads to the upper Tarap valley, featuring green grassland and a beautiful river.
Hike along the Tarap Chu River to Tokyo, explore the Chiba sect's monastery, and hike difficult terrain to Numa La Base Camp for an overnight stay.
Day 10: Numa La Base Camp to Pelung Tang (4465 m) to Numa La Pass (5190 m)
The most challenging day of the Lower Dolpo Trek Itinerary begins with a delicious breakfast before ascending to Numa La Pass (a 6 to 7-hour trek)..
You'll enjoy stunning views of the Dolpo Mountains and Mount Dhaulagiri. After a brief stop at Pelung Tang, you'll spend the night in a tent camp.
Day 11: Pelung Tang to Dajok Tang (4080 m) via Baga La Pass (5070 m)
In today's 6 to 7-hour journey, you will hike a challenging path to Baga La Pass, where you will enjoy stunning views of desert terrain, Mt. Kanjirowa, and snow-capped mountains.
After descending, you will spend the night at Dajok Tang, where you will spend the night in a tea house.
Day 12: Dajok Tang to Ringmo (3660 m)
The Lower Dolpo Trekking Trail (3 to 4 hours) mostly passes through lush pine forests and alpine vegetation.
On a slightly easier trek than in previous days, you will arrive at Ringmo village, a Tibetan settlement in the Dolpo region.
In the village of Ringmo, you'll stay overnight in a tea house.
Day 13: Ringmo to Shey Phoksundo Lake (3600 m)
After an early meal, the Lower Dolpo Trekking Trail continues to Phoksundo Lake, a 3,600-meter-high lake in Dolpo.
Beautiful views of nearby monasteries and Yak caravans can be seen from the lake.
After spending the night at a tea house by the lake, the trip continues with a day of sightseeing and exploration.
Day 14: Shey Phoksundo Lake to Shyanta (2520 m)
Following your morning meal at Phoksundo Lake, you will travel down into Shyanta village for 7 to 8 hours and arrive at Chepka.
Through numerous settlements and a sizable cliff, the Lower Dolpo Trekking Trail continues, passing through medicinal minerals thought to cure a variety of illnesses.
You will stay overnight in a tea house in Shyanta village after continuing your journey there.
Day 15: Shyanta to Juphal (2500 m)
You will travel via Sulighat on your way back to Juphal today.
Along the way, you will pass many birch trees and take in breathtaking views of the mountains.
You will rest when you arrive in Juphal and then spend the evening in the market. You will stay at a tea house in Juphal for the night.
Day 16: Juphal to Nepalgunj (151 m)
Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj in 35 minutes.
Explore the town and spend the night at a hotel in Nepalgunj.
Day 17: Nepalgunj to Kathmandu (1300 m)
Fly from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu in 45 minutes.
Have a proper rest on the last night before returning to your hometown.
Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu (1300 m)
Depending on your travel schedule, you can head to the airport for your international flight to your hometown.
Packing List for the Lower Dolpo Trek
Lower Dolpo Trek is a moderate trekking trail that does not require lots of equipment. However, there are some essentials you must have during the trek.
Head
Warm hat & cap
Sunglasses with UV protection
Headlight
Earmuffs
Beanie
Body
Thermal layers
Warm and Waterproof jacket
Thermal Gloves
Trekking Trousers and Shorts
Neck buff
Waterproof gloves
Footwear
Trekking shoes
Hiking boots
Warm Hiking socks
Gaiters
Essentials/Equipment
Sleeping bag
First aid kit
Trekking poles & Duffel bag
Water Bottles and Hydration Bladders
Raincoat
High-energy snacks
Reliable oxygen supply
Maps & Compass/GPS
Note: Don’t overpack unnecessarily, as it may trouble you during the trek. Carry important stuff only.
Accommodation and Meals During the Trek
Accommodation
During the trek, you will stay in teahouses and in a hotel in Kathmandu. All lodgings are shared by two people.
A single supplement will cost an extra fee and be provided upon request. While teahouses in some isolated locations only have shared restrooms and washing facilities, Himalayan Glacier will set up rooms with attached bathrooms.
Additionally, keep in mind that while single rooms are easily accessible in Kathmandu and the trekking areas at lower elevations, they may be harder to locate at higher elevations.
Meal
Throughout the trek, the qualified and experienced cook will provide you with freshly prepared, sanitary, and nourishing meals on a full-board basis.
In addition to the more popular international cuisine (Tibetan, Continental, Italian, Indian, etc.), there will be authentic Nepalese and Tibetan dishes available.
Best Time to Trek in Lower Dolpo
The best time for trekking to Lower Dolpo Nepal, is during spring and autumn.
Spring (April to June)
The season between September and December is a favorable time to trek, with warm temperatures and blooming rhododendrons. The trek may be less crowded than during the peak season.
Autumn (September to October)
Another best season for peak trekking season in Dolpo is between March to May, and you can expect good weather and clear skies. However, it can also be crowded with other trekkers.
Off-Season (November to March & July to August)
These times are not recommended due to the harsh winter snow and summer rains, making the trek difficult and less accessible.
A Brief History of the Lower Dolpo Region
The history of the Dolpo district in the western Himalayas is heavily influenced by Tibet. Previously part of the Zhangzhung kingdom, Dolpo was conquered by the Yarlung dynasty, leading to many settlers migrating to the region.
The Lo dynasty, which took control in the 14th century, became a significant trade outlet and an agro-pastoral society. The Lo dynasty is still recognized by Nepal, and the region's cultural traditions have remained strong. The Lo dynasty continues to influence the region's history.
What's Included in the Trek Package
Complimentary airport pick-ups and drop-offs
Complimentary welcome dinner
Two-night stay in Kathmandu, including breakfast (twin share).
All necessary trekking permits for Shey Phoksundo National Park, TIMS cards, etc.
Return flights to and from Kathmandu (Nepalgunj) and Nepalgunj (Jupal)
All accommodation during the trek
Three meals a day during the trek
A cup of tea or coffee with the meal
Professional English-speaking government-registered and first-aid trained local guide
First-aid kit
Staff insurance, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
Rescue arrangements, if necessary
Agency service charge and government tax or VAT
Certificate of Achievement
What's Not Included in the Trek Package
International airfare and Nepal visa fee
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft, etc.
Sightseeing costs (temples, monasteries, entrance fee, etc.)
All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses, such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, and WiFi.
Tip for staff
Lower Dolpo Trek Permits and Entry Requirements
There are some permits required for the Dolpo trek that trekkers are required to bring while trekking.
Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit ($20 each week plus $5 for every extra day)
Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Fee: $30.
TIMS Card $20
Benefits of Booking the Lower Dolpo Trek with us
With decades of experience, Hi Nepal Tours and Treks is a trusted name in Himalayan travel. We take pride in delivering exceptional trekking and tour experiences, marked by meticulous planning, safety-first operations, and culturally enriching encounters. Our team comprises highly skilled, licensed guides and dedicated support staff, all of whom are passionate about sharing the majestic beauty and heritage of Nepal.
Would you like to learn more about our Lower Dolpo Trek package?
Price Breakdown of the Lower Dolpo Trek
Budget: There is no set budget because everyone has different needs, and each need has a different cost. The degree of luxury you want in your accommodation, food, and other services will determine the price.
Transportation: The size of your group and the type of transportation you choose will affect the price.
Meal and Accommodation: Depending on your tastes and the location, the cost of your meals and accommodations will change. While trekking, one can eat traditional foods like tarkali (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), dal bhat, Momo, noodle soup, thukpa, local bread, pasta, etc. At the lodge, you are sleeping in a teahouse.
Guide and Porter: The level of experience will determine how much the guide and porter will cost.
Permit Costs: Trekkers must pay the Lower Dolpo trekking permit fee between $75 to $100 for the required permits.
How to Book the Lower Dolpo Trek
To book your trek for Lower Dolpo, you can visit our website of Hi Nepal Travel and Trek Pvt. Ltd. We will provide you with the best experience during the time you are in Nepal.
Learn about the budget and book for your Lower Dolpo Trek package.
FAQs
How much is the lower Dolpo trek permit?
Permits for the Lower Dolpo trek will cost somewhere between 70 to 100 USD.
How to get to Dolpa from Kathmandu?
In order to travel from Kathmandu to Dolpa, you need to fly to Nepalgunj and then to Jhaphal. From theri you will trek toward Dolpo.
What is the difference between Upper Dolpo and Lower Dolpo?
While the Lower Dolpo Trek is comparatively simpler and easier to reach, the Upper Dolpo Trek is more isolated, difficult, and requires specific permits.
How difficult is the Lower Dolpo trek?
Compared to the Upper Dolpo Trek, it is relatively easy; however, the Lower Dolpo Trek is still a challenging route.
How to get Dolpo Permits?
You can get Dolpo trek permits through the tourism board in Kathmandu and also through your agencies.
Which is the best trekking route in the Dolpo region?
Both the Lower and Upper Dolpo routes in Dolpo are considered as two of the best trekking trails in Nepal.
Which is an ideal time to do the trek in western Nepal?
Spring and autumn are the ideal times to trek in western Nepal when the weather is clear and the temperature is moderate.
How to get to the trailhead of the Lower Dolpo trek?
To get to the trailhead, Juphal, you need to fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then from Nepalgunj to Juphal.