Lower Dolpo Trek

Overview
Cost Info
Detailed Itinerary
Fixed Departure
Trip Info

Lower Dolpo Trek has varied landscape, fascinated culture and traditions amid the vast arid beauty of this remarkable region. Eric Valli’s Oscar-nominated film "Caravan" also entitled "Himalaya" faithfully documents a slice of life of the people of this region and their struggle for survival in its harsh landscapes. Buddhism and the ancient Bön religion that per-dates it are practiced harmoniously side by side here.

This Lower Dolpo trekking in Nepal explores north of the Dhaulagiri Range – and is thus in the rain shadow of the monsoon. This is reflected in the colourful barren slopes of the mountains where the play of light and shadow is a perpetually changing. In summer, caravans of yaks and sheep wind through the Tarap Valley on the ancient trade route to Tibet to exchange salt for grain and other goods and also to trade ideas and stories from the Tibetan Plateau and the valleys to the south.

Our Lower Dolpo Trekking itineraries designed for “real adventurers” wishing for an off-the-beaten-path experience and happy to sleep under canvas. The trek passes through the southern portion of the Shey-Phoksundo National Park and offers magnificent mountain scenery, limited forest, rugged canyons, barren plateaus and a spectacular and very beautiful lake.

Our Lower Dolpo trekking route follows an anti-clockwise circle through the canyons of the Thuli Bheri Khola and the region’s major towns of Dunai and Tarakot before turning northeast along the Tarap Khola that rises to the major Tarap Valley, above the tree line. The plateau of the Tarap Valley contains several villages and is an important agricultural region: Do is the main village. There are numerous Bön and Buddhist monasteries in the region that beg to be explored.

Beyond Do, our trail turns west and heads, over two days, for two high passes: the Numa La (5309m/17420ft) and Baga La (5169m/16960ft) which are separated by exquisite alpine valleys. A further day’s walk will take us to the magnificent Phoksundo Lake. After a day exploring this lovely region, we turn southwards for two days of walking back to Juphal and our flights back to Kathmandu.

Outline Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)

Day 02: Kathmandu valley sightseeing; trek preparation

Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (,152m/4,98ft) & transfer to Hotel

Day 04: Fly Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,320m/7,610ft), trek to Dunai (2,850m/9,348ft): 45min,flight 2-3 hrs.trek

Day 05: Juphal - Tarakot (2,543m/8,341ft): 5-6 hrs

Day 06: Tarakot - Laini (3,160 m/10,365 ft): 5-6 hrs

Day 07: Laini - Nawarpani (3,545m/11,627 ft): 4-5 hrs

Day 08: Nawarpani - Do Tarap (4,090m/13,415ft): 5-6 hrs

Day 09: Rest and acclimatization Day at Do Tarap. Explore the Bön and Buddhist monasteries.

Day 10: Trek to Numa La Base Camp (4,440m/14,563 ft): 6-7 hrs

Day 11: Cross Numa La (5,190m/17,023ft), and camp at Bagala Phedi (4465m/14,645ft): 6-7 hrs

Day 12: Cross Baga La (5,070m/16,630ft) and camp Dajok Tang (4,080m/13,382ft): 5-6 hrs

Day 13: Trek to Ringmo (3,600m/11,808ft): 3-4 hrs

Day 14: Rest and exploration day at Ringmo on Phoksundo Lake

Day 15: Phoksundo Lake - Shyangta (2,520m/8,265 ft): 5-6 hrs

Day 16: Shyangta - Juphal (2320m /7,610ft): 5-6 hrs.

Day 17: Fly to Nepalgunj/ Kathmandu

Day 18: final departure

Transfer to international airport and fly to onward destination.

"OR"

For more fantastic ideal trip to extend your valued holiday in Nepal, from riding elephant in Chitwan to tours in Tibet and Bhutan, please follow the link.

Cost Inclusive:

All airport/Hotel transfers
Tourist standard Hotel in Kathmandu for 2 nights on BB Plan
Welcome and farewell dinner
Full meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Hot drinks (Tea & Coffee)
All mountain accommodation
flight Kathmandu/Nepalgunj/Juphal/Nepalgunj/Kathmandu
An experienced English-speaking trek leader (Govt. registered trekking guide), assistant trek leader (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
Guide & porter salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
All necessary paper work and permits (Lower Dolpa Restricted Area Permit )
A comprehensive medical kit
All government and local taxes
Trekking equipment such as four season down jacket, sleeping bag, trekking boots, rain coat, walking stick and many more as per necessity

Cost Exclusive:

Soft drinks, alcoholic drinks
Mineral water
Personal expenses
Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu
Travel insurance & evacuation

Lower Dolpo Trekking Itinerary details

Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)

Meet MMT (Mountain Mart Treks) airport representative at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your choice of Hotel /Resort /Guest house. Free afternoon. Involve, Welcome dinner held by MMT management, introduce guide, trip briefing and check trip necessities.

Day 02: Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation (1,300m/4,264 ft)

After breakfast, the day will start with city trip to cultural World Heritage sites in the Kathmandu valley such as (including), pilgrimage sites of Hindus temples at Pashupatinath, the world’s biggest Stupa Bouddhanath, visit Swayambhunath Stupa also known as the Monkey Temple. After exploring the surrounding areas, visit the historical Patan Durbar Square & Kathmandu’s Durbar Square (Freak Street) with temples, unique ancient art, architectures, museum and Kumari (living goddess). Evening pre-trip counseling and ensure once again trekking gears, medical kid and trek legalization needs. (Evening pre-trip discussion: a trekking gear and medical kit check, visa and legalization requirements.)

“OR”

Leisure and rest day for your own interests.……

Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (152m/498ft) and transfer to Hotel

We take an hour's flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj in Western Nepal. Nepalgunj which is a border town near Nepal-India border is the gateway to Simikot of Humla. The town itself is an interesting Terai business hub of Nepal with influences from both the Nepal hills and plains as well as local Hindu & Muslim cultures. Some sightseeing places in Nepalgunj include Mini Zoo, Muslim bazaar, or if possible and interested take a walk into nearby villages. We have to also make preparation for tomorrow's flight to Juphal.

Day 04: Fly Nepalgunj - Juphal (2,320m/7,610ft), trek to Dunai (2,850m/9,348ft): 35 min, 2-3 hrs

After an early breakfast, we take a morning flight to Juphal. A 45 minutes flight over the high mountains brings you at Juphal over the Himalayan foothills, with the views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks to the north. On arriving at Juphal our trekking staffs receive you. Our first day adventure begins through the terraced fields to the Bheri River and the narrow gorge taking 2-3 hours to camp at Dunai. Dunai is the administrative headquarter of the Dolpo region. Explore Dunai in the evening.

Day 05: Dunai - Tarakot (2,543m/8,341ft): 5-6 hrs

After breakfast, our trek continues along the south bank of the river heading upstream on a good trail, deep gorges, hanging bridges and isolated villages. A tremendous gorge with pine trees and an ingenious path built about 7 meter above the river. The colorful terraced field of Tarakot greets us eventually. Tarakot is an old fortress town built by the local people as Dzong or fort. The village stands on a hillock to the south of Bheri River at one time supervised collection of tolls for the trading caravans.

Day 06: Tarakot - Laini {3,160 m/10,365 ft): 6-7 hrs

We resume our walk following the Tarap chu river upstream, crossing a suspension bridge to open lunch spot.The famed Sandul Gompa lies farther east from Tarakot and at the junction of Barbung khola and Tarup chu Rriver. The path leads through the farm terraces and rural villages. After a few ups and downs, finally encounter river bed to reach our overnight camp at Laini.

Day 07: Laini - Nawarpani (3,545m/11,627 ft): 5 hrs

After breakfast, we continue walking up to the gorge of the Tarap River, rising high above on a trail built out from steep slopes. The walk is quite exciting as the valley becomes narrow gorge that in some places you can jump from one side to another. Descend to Chyugur Khola. Sometimes the path vanishes for a while, making our own path across stone slabs fitted on logs in between the walls which act as a bridge.

Day 08: Laini - Do Tarap (4,090m/13,415ft): 7-8 hrs

Our morning walk begins after breakfast with a gradual up leading us at Kamattarka at the confluence of the Tarap Chu and Lang Khola, a stream flowing from the east. After few hours of nice morning walk leaving the narrow gorge, from here the path leads just above tree lines for juniper bush and wild rose, typical of dry inner Himalayan valleys. Another 3 hours or more walk brings us to the village of Dho Tarap surrounded by an irregular stone wall. In this Valley both Bön Po and Chaiba sects reside together. Tarap is also inhabited by a few Tibetans and mostly Magars who have lived here for many generations.

Day 09: Rest Day at Do Tarap for acclimatization

We spend a rest day in Do Tarap for gradually getting used to the altitude. Explore villages, monasteries and enjoy the surrounding breathtaking views. Make friends with the locals who have hardly seen westerners. The Dolpo people wear home spun clothing that is sometimes dyed maroon and they favour 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 Bön po and Nyingmapa of Buddhist sect. The Buddhist Gompa is nearby to the camp while the Bön Gompa (pre Buddhist) is about half an hour's walk.

Day 10: Do Tarap - Numa La Base Camp (4440m/14,563 ft): 6-7 hrs

After a wonderful time at Do Tarap, our journey continues towards upper Tarap valley, the walk follows in this plain valley with patched of lush verdant grass on both sides of the river, which is completely different from other parts of inner Dolpo. The trek on this pleasant track leads by the Tarap Chu upstream all the way. Tarap is certainly a dream valley with vast plains in high mountains. A few hours' good walk takes us to the village of Tokyu, it has a monastery belonging to the Chiba sect. After visit this village our walk continues further up this valley climbing up the rough track for almost another three hours to reach our overnight camp beneath the Numa-la.

Day 11: Cross Numa La (5,190m/17,023ft), and camp at Bagala Phedi(4465m/14,645 ft): 6-7 hrs

This is one of the long and difficult days during the trek. After breakfast our journey continues to crossing of Numa La pass at 5,190m, the track leads to steep climb all the way to the top ridge of Numa la with great views of the surrounding landscapes. An incredible panoramic view of the barren mountains of Dolpo up to the Dhaulagiri (8167m). After getting to the top of Numa La we will descend to camp at Pelung Tang

Day 12: Cross Baga La (5,070m/16,630ft) and camp Dajok Tang (4,080m/13,382ft): 6 hrs

After breakfast, our morning trek starts with a steep climb to reach the ridge top of Baga-la at 5,070m, which offers fantastic views of the surrounding landscapes and of the distant snow capped peaks of Kanjirowa Himal range, after a glorious moment at the pass, almost three hours of downhill walk takes to the Dajok Tang for overnight.

Day 13: Trek to Ringmo (3,600m/11,808ft): 3-4 hrs

Our morning trek starts through the pine forest, on leaving the forest behind the country and the vegetation changes for pasture field and alpine shrubs most of the way to Ringmo on the gradual slopes with few ups and downs as we reach our final destination at Ringmo.

Day 14: Rest Day at Ringmo village in Phoksundo Lake

A rest and exploration day. And of course we sit right on the shore of the spectacular Phoksundo Lake: remember the harrowing scene in 'Himalaya' when Thinley's yak caravan attempted the 'Devil's Trail'. Yak caravans will be heading in and out of Ringmo on their way north towards the border of Tibet, and our most northerly destinations, Saldang and Thinje. This is the pleasant day free from the hassle of packing and chance to visit the nearby Tibetan Buddhist monastery is well worth a visit, as is the village of Ringmo. A walk part way round the lake is also very enjoyable and relaxing. This is a great day exploring the lake areas and the crystal serene Lake of Phoksundo with a great views. overnight at camp.

Day 15: Phoksundo Lake - Shyangta (2520m/8265 ft): 5-6 hrs

Today’s trek leads downhill to Chepka. From Chepka the trail follows the massive overhanging rock. We find many important medicinal mineral which is believed to cure almost anything in this area. The route then passes through the villages, before climbing to Shyangta.

Day 16: Shyangta - Juphal (2,320m/7,610ft): 5-6 hrs

Following the trail gently sloping upwards, we march towards Juphal via Sulighat. We meet tall birch trees on our way. From atop the ridge, we can have the most spectacular views of the mountain and Juphal below. Utmost caution is required while trekking along this trail. After reaching Juphal, we can spend our afternoon exploring the busy market town or simply pursuing whatever we feel like.

Day 17: Fly Juphal – Nepalgunj - Kathmandu

We take a flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj. On reaching Nepalgunj, we return to Kathmandu on the next available flight. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize the photos. You can spend the evening leisurely, perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping and celebrate dinner together with Himalayan Glacier Trekking staffs. Overnight at Kathmandu.

Day 18: Final departure

Transfer to international airport and fly to onward destination.

"OR"

For more fantastic ideal trip to extend your valued holiday in Nepal, from riding elephant in Chitwan to tours in Tibet and Bhutan, please follow the link.

Departure Dates for Lower Dolpo Trek

For departure dates and other informations please Contact Us

Body wear:

T-shirt, long sleeve, half pant, long trouser, warm Jacket, fleece Jacket, Gore-tax windproof Jacket & trouser, warm trouser, rain Jacket, sleeping bag, down jacket

Head wear:

Sun hat, woolen hat/fleece hat, sunglass & scat

Hand wear:

Gloves

Foot wear:

Warm woolen socks, trekking boots & sandal

Accessories:

Personal toiletries, personal first aid kit, sun block, lip guard, shampoo, soap, shavers, moisturizer, passport copies, pocket knives, flash light, camera & film, tawel, water bottle, music & books.

What you carry for the trek:

Please, bring the equipment listed above and pack your gear for the trek into a duffel bag or rucksacks, and small day bag for you. The larger bag with your kit will be carried by the porter to meet you each evening. You should bring a day pack to carry by yourself for water, rain jacket, hat gloves, camera money etc. The weather in mountain is changeable so you will need some warm cloths with you on your day pack.

What to do about the left over baggage:

One day before your departure for the trek you could leave the valuable things which you do not need on the trek such as passport, visa card, flight tickets, in our safety box, and the rest of the things you could store it in our store room.

What is a tea house trek? Accommodation and food facilities!

Tea house trek mean staying and eating in the local lodges. We stay in double room, rooms are basic but comfortable mattress, normally just a bed and pillow. Most of them have electric light and all have and all have specious dining room –lounge. Mostly in tea houses there are common bathroom. Hot shower also available on the tea- houses but the hot water depend on weather conditions and to pay to get the shower. We eat at tea- house, though food is usually potential and delicious, menu is not extensive. They offer variety of potato rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup. You could choose food from the menu what you could choose the food from the menu what you would like to have. You would be able to eat the food as much as you like but you would not able to order more than enough and left the food.

Health:

It’s very important not to get sick while you are going on the trek and you need to be careful about what you eat and drink. You need to stay healthy and avoid getting sick in order to have a successful trek.

Some tips for staying healthy:

Avoid drinking or brushing your teeth with tap water. Drink only sealed bottled or proper boiled water or use water purification tablets. During the trek avoid the temptation to test your fitness through fast walking at altitude.

Medical kit

Your guide will bring normal medical kits with him while on the trek. It is recommended that you also bring a small personal medical kit including pain killers, sore throat, plasters, strapping tape for blisters, etc. If you are taking regular mediation you need to bring those medicine with you and do not forget to bring extra supply if somehow one pack is lost.

The trails:

The trekking trail of Nepal vary from wide, rode-like avenues to narrow, slippery paths built out over enormous drops. In many places, a fall from the trail would be final. One most pay attention at all the time to where you are placing your fact. Be specially careful not move while looking through the view finder of your camera.

The weather:

Nepal has the wildest altitude range of any country of the earth. Each altitude will have its’ own weather problem, from typical heat to arctic cold. In the main trekking season in the spring and fall, the weather is often stable and even the high passes may be free of snow and relatively easy to traverse at times. Those trekkers who encountered an easy at altitude nasty spread the word that boots and warm clothing are not required. This is a mistake. That sudden storm can occur at any time, dumping one or two meter of snow on the passes. At that point, any one with simple running shoes will not be able to processed and may even be stranded for a number of days. Frostbite is a constant risk if one walks in snow at high altitude.

If you trek in the winter, you most be prepared for cold and snow. If you trek in the monsoon you might be face with slippery trails and difficult rivers crossing. You are heading into the world highest mountain range. Be prepared for changes in temperature and weather.

Altitude and preventing altitude:

Being in a hurry in the mountain of Nepal can be deadly. Acclimatization is the word used to describe the adjustments your body makes as it ascends. Ascend slowly and drinking lots of water is one of the best ways not to get high altitude. You should not plan to go to high altitude if you have know heart disease, difficulty to breathing at sea level or are pregnant. For other chronic medical conditions its better to consult your doctor. Sleeping pills, alcohol, smoking should not be used at altitude as they tend to decrease breathing and lead to Acute Mountain Sickness. It comes that during 3-4 liters of fluids (Water, Soup, etc) per day to avoid dehydration helps in the acclimatization process.

Tipping and cash requirement

On the trekking route do not forget to bring Nepalese rupees for drinks bottled water drinks/alcohol that might purchage on the way. The sum of amount to carry on the trekking route depends on the day and area you are going to trek in. Tipping is now common in Nepal but there is no certain rules how much should be tips and it’s not the must to tip.

Photographing people:

During a trek you will have many opportunities to photograph local people and amazing society. You could usetons of films taking amazing natural scenery but talking the picture of people it’s a good idea to ask before taking. Some people do not like you to take the picture of them. So always ask before taking the pictures.

Considering Environment:

While trekking you have to consider on the environment not to destroy the environment. There are so many ways you could help not to polluted the environment of the area such as pick up papers, film wrappers, burn all your toilet paper and bury your farce, do not make camp fire.

Insurance:

All tour participants should obtain their own personal insurance which covers accidents, health, emergency evacuation and loss or damage to personal effects.