Lower Dolpo Trek
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Lower Dolpo Trek Summary
- Dolpo Trek Duration: 16 Days
- High Altitude: 5,070m/16,634 feet
- Trekking Hour: 6 Hours
- Group-Size: 2 – 12 People
- Best Time to trek: April, May, June, September, October, and November
- Trip Mode: Tent Trek
- Meals on Trek: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Transportation : Car/Plane/Bus
Overview
The Lower Dolpo Trek is one of the most remote and untouched wilderness adventures in the Himalayas. Located within an iconic Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to the stunning Phoksundo Lake, famous for its turquoise waters, crystal clarity, and diverse wildlife. Nestled deep in the Karnali region of western Nepal, this restricted area trek requires a special permit, adding to its exclusive and offbeat appeal.
Kangmara La (5,115m), Numa La (5,159m), and Baga La (5,190m) are challenging yet rewarding high mountain passes that you need to cross along the journey. You’ll have a rough, arid and isolated terrain, that provides a true off the beaten path adventure. Despite its remoteness, the authentic hospitality of the Dolpo people enriches every journey with warmth and cultural depth.
Shey Phoksundo Lake is one of the deepest and most mesmerizing glacial lake in Nepal. Trekkers walk through Phoksundo Nature Park, discovering ancient Buddhist monasteries, Tibetan-influenced villages, and dramatic highland scenery. You pathway also reveals an unique traditions and lifestyles of the indigenous Bon and Tibetan communities.
For those seeking a longer adventure, the Dolpo to Rara Trek is also known as the Shey Phoksundo to Rara Expedition that extends the journey to 20 to 25 days. This remarkable trail connects largest and smallest national parks of Nepal, showcasing a rare blend of untouched natural beauty and cultural authenticity.
Similarly, you’ll have a diverse vegetation, from lush alpine meadows to dense pine forests and rare medicinal herbs, enhances its natural charm. Travelers witness the traditional salt and grain trade with Tibet, a practice that continues for centuries. Together, these elements make the Lower Dolpo Trek a truly unique Himalayan experience and a perfect choice for trekkers seeking adventure, solitude, and authenticity in Nepal.
How much is the Lower Dolpo Trek Package Cost/Price?
With a local agency in Nepal, this lower Dolpo trek cost ranges between US$ 2350 to US$ 3250 per tourist. In the given package price includes transportation, a guide, porters, hotels and food accommodation and hiking permits, facilities.
We have also lower season discount deals for group leaders. For example, if you could bring 10+ travelers (except you) on your trip, you are treated as a group leader. So you can trek to lower Dolpo within 50% off price.
It’s a standard trip package price for 16 days trekking in the lower Dolpo territory. If you are 2 people for lower Dolpo trek cost US$ 2490 for 16 days trek as per plan. We can modify the trek route and the prices according to your wishes also. Here is the price list for 16 days lower Dolpo treks in the western Nepal.
Price Per Person for Lower Dolpo trek package for 2026 and 2027.
| Number of Tourist | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | US$ 3250 |
| 2 Person | US$ 2490 |
| 3 Person | US$ 2475 |
| 4 to 6 person | US$ 2425 |
| 7 to 9 Person | US$ 2395 |
| 10 and more than 10 Person | US$ 2350 |
If you’re wondering to know about what is included and what is excluded from this trip price, kindly check on the cost given on a tab button.
Itinerary
Lower Dolpo Trek detail itinerary
A trek to Lower Dolpo, nestled in a wilderness area, offers a classic 16 days itinerary, distinct from most routes that venture into the remote regions of Nepal. It’s a super specific trail caters to global travelers seeking a more leisurely pace. Should you be interested in this relaxed adventure, we invite you to explore the itinerary. However, for those with time constraints or who prefer a quicker journey, feel free to reach out for a customized itinerary tailored to your needs.
1 DayArrival in Kathmandu valley and permit and gears preparation.Upon arrival in Kathmandu, Tribhuvan International Airport, we pick you up and transfer you to a hotel in Kathmandu with a private car. To prepare your Lower Dolpo restricted area trek permits, we actually need your passport copy and your Nepal visa. After an hours of official formalities making Dolpo permits, we fix for meeting time to introduce your guide, and he will brief you about lower Dolpo circuit trekking in Nepal.
Your guide will come to your hotel to proceed to drive to Kathmandu domestic terminal hall. Around midday, take a Kathmandu to Nepalgunj flight which takes about one hour roughly.
In the Morning, fly from Nepalgunj to Jhupal takes about 35 minutes. Its a fist day of your hikes therefore, you’ll have a short an easy walk today. Trek from Jhupal to Dunai is roughly about three hours of walk then our staff will fix a tent accommodation in a nice place near the source of water.
Walking especially from Dunai to Tarakot is generally popular and soft adventure trail that follows the scenic course of the Bheri River. Continue to consists of dirt paths with some stone paved sections with a stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Although the elevation gain is gradual, there are several ups and downs, with narrow stretches near the river. During the monsoon season, some sections can become muddy and slippery. However, in drier months like autumn and spring, this path is typically in good condition, with only occasional minor obstacles such as small stream crossings or erosion in certain sections.
Follow with a rugged and moderately challenging, with dirt and rocky trails that follow the Tarap Chu River. It involves some steep ascents and narrow, exposed sections, requiring careful navigation, especially after rain. Despite the rough terrain, the trail offers stunning, secluded views of the surrounding environments.
Trek from Laina Udar to Sim Udar takes around 6 hours of journey. Stay overnight at Tent Camp.
As elevation gain is significant, and trekkers will pass through narrow sections alongside the Tarap Valley. Terrain becomes more harder, especially during or after rain, as the path may become slippery. In dry months, it’s more manageable but still requires good fitness and caution. Along the way, trekkers are rewarded with expansive views of the high altitude valley and the surrounding landscapes.
Its an Acclimatization day at Dho Tarp. This day, Tourists can visit Gompa and the local villages. Stay overnight at the same place.
Dho Tarap to Numala Base Camp trekking is rocky and harder trail comparing the earlier days trekking of north western part of Nepal. It is mostly rocky, with loose stones and sections that require careful footing. As you gain elevation, the air becomes thinner, making your journey more difficult. Likewise, the weather is unpredictable, with cold winds and occasional snowfall at higher altitudes, particularly near the base camp. However, the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys make this strenuous trip rewarding for seasoned trekkers.
Starting from Numala Base Camp to Numala Pass is tough hiking as the highest elevation where we need to cross is located on 5,115 meters. Cross the pass and continue to walk to Danayghar which takes another couple of hours of hiking. Stay overnight at Tent Camping.
Our trip today from Danayghar to Bagala Pass offers an adventurous hiking experience, marked by both challenge and beauty. As tourists ascend, they eventually reach the highest viewpoint of Bagala Pass, standing impressively at 5,100 meters. Upon crossing this summit, the trail descends further to Yak Kharka, where our tent camp is set up for an overnight stay, providing a serene resting point after the day’s demanding journey.
A trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake provides a soft adventure trek through the stunning Dolpo region, providing an exceptional experience for nature enthusiasts. Phoksundo Lake, an alpine freshwater oligotrophic lake, is nestled within the Shey Phoksundo National Park at an impressive elevation of 3,611.5 meters above sea level in the Dolpa District in Nepal.
Furthermore, Phoksundo Lake is recognized as the deepest lake in Nepal, plunging to a depth of 145 meters (476 feet). Situated in the far west of Nepal, this breathtaking lake spans a water surface area of 494 hectares (1,220 acres). Notably, it was designated as a Ramsar site in September 2007, highlighting its global ecological importance. Additionally, the lake’s depth was accurately measured using advanced echo sounding technology, further showcasing its unique natural features.
Shey Phoksundo lake altitude of 3,611.5 meters is in a wilderness area and isolated trek route in Dolpa District, Nepal. It is 494 HQ in size with a water volume of 409,000,000 m³ and a discharge of 3.715 m³/s.
Hike to Shey Phoksundo lake covers the lush forest and rocky hills which makes the surface watercolor is unique. During the Dolpo circuit trek, travelers can walk to the Tibetan village of Ringmo and also explore sacred Phoksundo Lake and Tshowa Gompa.
Walk from Shey Phoksundo Lake to Rechi presents an incredible hiking experience. As the trailhead descends toward Rechi village, trekkers find themselves at an altitude below 3,000 meters. Here, we set up our campsite, creating a cozy overnight retreat in a tent, where we can rest and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Today, Rechi to Kagani Village is a moderately challenging route that features a mix of well defined trails and rugged terrain. Trekkers can encounter gentle ascents and descents, with sections that may be narrow and rocky. Continue the trail meanders through lush landscapes and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills. While the path is generally accessible, it often slippery during or after rainfall, requiring careful footing.
It’s the final day of the Dolpo circuit trekking tour and the journey to Juphal airport takes around 4 hours walk. Reaching Dolpo airport, the kitchen crew set up a campsite and prepare a special farewell dinner for a successful trip. Our hiking crew can enjoy delicious food with some farewell drinks and sings famous trekking songs and dance moments.
Fly from Jhupal to Nepalgunj and continue to fly to Kathmandu airport. Transfer to Thamel hotel and open for last minute shopping in Thamel on your own. If you need your guide to help you to find good shops? talk with the guide. Otherwise, we will have a special dinner in the evening together in the typical Nepali kitchen. Trip ends and we wish you a wonderful journey back home.
Not satisfied with above plan?
Are you interested in planning a custom trip? this might take 2 to 3 minutes.
Cost
How much is the Lower Dolpo Trek cost?
It’s a 17 Days Classic lower Dolpo Trek price US$ 2490 is a standard package per person on double occupancy basis. For our deluxe and luxury trekking tour plan, we provide accommodations in a 4 to 5 stars hotel in Kathmandu, featuring deluxe, air-conditioned rooms for ultimate comfort. In Nepalgunj, we arrange a 3 star hotel near the airport, including a complimentary breakfast for a seamless travel experience. Additionally, we offer fully customizable tour packages, allowing you to tailor your itinerary and pricing to match your preferences and requirements.
Lower Dolpo trekking package price include:
- Kathmandu international airport transfer on your arrival with a private vehicle.
- 2 Nights double bedroom accommodation in a tourist standard hotel in Kathmandu.
- Double bedroom in a standard hotel with Air condition room in Nepalgunj town.
- Domestic flights: Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Juphal & Juphal – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu round trip with tax.
- Tent camp accommodation during the trekking days in the Dolpa mountain region trekking.
- 16 Breakfast, 14 Lunch, and 14 Dinner served with hot Tea/coffee during the trek routes.
- All the essentials camping and kitchen equipment.
- An experienced and licensed holder English speaking local trekking guide.
- An assistant guide will provide for 7 plus group tourists.
- Required supporting local porters and donkeys to carry food and luggage.
- Lower Dolpo Special trekking permit issued by Immigration of Nepal.
- Shey Phoksundo National Park entrance permit and fees with local taxes.
- Food / Salary/accommodation and medical or accidental insurance of all the trekking staff.
- Farewell dinner party after the trip completion in Kathmandu.
- Updated lower Dolpo trek map, and trek certificate – keep yourself
- Agency’s duffel bag (50 liters capacity), and trek poles if Necessary – return after the trek.
- First aid medical kit including Oximeter to check your Oxygen level, Pulse rate to monitor every day to prepare for high altitude risk. However, in a worst case, help with all Helicopter Rescue and evacuation arrangements (but not the rescue bills).
- Nepal Government Tax, VAT, and as well as Company service charge.
Lower Dolpo trekking package price exclude:-
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Lunch and Dinner during your staying in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj city.
- All types of drinks during your staying in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj city.
- Battery charges, laundry service, phone calls.
- Personal trek equipment Personal nature expenses, and bar bills, and clothing.
- -10 comfort fresh Sleeping bag rental cost per piece US$ 2 per day.
- Kathmandu city monuments entrance fees and transportation on the second day as described above.
- Travel Insurance which covers emergency rescue, evacuation, personal loss, or damage.
- All types of donations to the monastery and gifts for the monks.
- Gratuities for guide, cook, and porters [Tip is a culture, so they expect highly].
Group join
We can organize private Lower Dolpo Trekking starting on any date that works for you. Please contact us for more information.
FAQ
Question: Is pick up service available on my arrival day in Kathmandu?
Answer: Yes sure. If you provide us with your flight details and request us to pick you up, our representative will come to pick up you at Kathmandu international airport.
Question: Do I need the experience to do Lower Dolpo Trekking?
Answer: Yes, prior trekking experience is highly recommended for the Lower Dolpo Trek. It has a remote terrain, high altitude, and difficult passes require good physical fitness, stamina, and the ability to handle long days of hiking. While not mandatory, experience with multiple days treks and acclimatization to high altitudes will greatly enhance your safety and enjoyment of the journey.
Question: What kind of accommodation and food can I expect in the Lower Dolpo Trekking?
Answer: Its a tent basis trekking route, so we provide you tent camping accommodation during the routes. However we suggest you to take your own sleeping bags if you have one with you otherwise, you may rent them while you are in Kathmandu.
In the same way, at the tent camping trek days, our professional cook will prepare a delicious range of mostly vegetarian meals. Such as Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, rice curry, bread, soups, and fresh vegetables (variety depending on the season.
Question: Will I have a shower along the journey to lower Dolpo?.
Answer: As you are in the camping trekking days, we provide you a hot water bucket, you will take a bucket shower.
Question: How do I get drinking water on Dolpo Trekking?
Answer: We provide you Aqua purify normal water as you wish along the journey.
Question: Can I charge my mobile phone or camera or other batteries on my Dolpo trip?
Answer: As you are going through a tent trekking, there are some local houses en route where you can recharge the battery. But often not possible to get better charging places thus, we recommend you bring an extra pair in case.
Question: Are there any communication facilities on Lower Dolpo Trekking?
Answer: Only some places stay telephone but not internet connection at all.
Question: When should I book my trip and what are the payment terms?
Answer: We recommend booking your trip with us as early as possible. While we strive to accommodate last minute bookings, a 25% advance deposit is required to secure your reservation. This deposit allows us to make all necessary arrangements for your trip however, the remaining payment, you can settle upfront upon your arrival in Nepal.
Question: Who will carry my luggage on this Lower Dolpo express trekking?
Answer: We provide donkeys/yaks to transfer your luggage, food supplies, and all camping gears.
Question: How much distance do I walk each day?
Answer: When walking in the mountains, the distance you cover each day can vary greatly due to gradient, terrain, and altitude. As such it is very hard to give specific distances for each day, however, you have to be prepared to walk roughly about 5 hours each day.
Question: Do I need walking poles on Lower Dolpo Trekking?
Answer: It is always better to hike with walking poles. Learn how to use trekking poles for balance and stability, whether on the sidewalk or on trails. Walking poles can help you to prevent from slips and falls so its advisable but not compulsory.
Lower Dolpo Trek highlights and side trips
- Phoksundo Lake is famous for its magnificent turquoise color in the world, also provides an spectacular scenery.
- Ringmo village, a typical Tibetan village, is scenically nestled in the area.
- Shey Phoksundo National Park provides everything about gigantic Himalayas to the deepest lakes.
- Discover the difficult Numa la and Baga la high passes along the route.
- Ancient to the isolated villages, Buddhist monasteries, Enthralling culture, and tradition.
- Snow Leopard’s territory with many other wild animals often will have a chance to see on your journey.
- Experience the vast array of wildlife inhabiting the region.
- Dho Tarap is a village in Dolpo Buddha Rural Municipality of Dolpa District in the Karnali Zone.
Best time for Lower Dolpo Trek
Starting from May to October months are the super best time for your trek to Lower Dolpo in the far western region of Nepal. During these months, the weather is generally stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, making for ideal trekking conditions. Likewise, at the spring season brings blooming wildflowers and lush vegetation, while early autumn offers stunning mountain views and colorful landscapes.
Lower Dolpo Trek difficulty and require fitness
This Lower Dolpo Trek is considered moderately to highly difficult due to its remote terrain, high altitude, and challenging passes. Trekkers need to be in good physical condition, with stamina and endurance to handle long days of hiking and steep ascents. Prior trekking experience and proper acclimatization are essential to manage the trek’s demands and ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Notes for Lower Dolpo trekkers!
This Dolpo trekking information stated above is just a standard package, possible to modify at your request to accommodate your specific requirements. Factors such as local politics, landslides, flight cancellations, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control can occasionally lead to changes in the itinerary during the trek.
While it’s unlikely that the itinerary would be significantly altered, if necessary, the trip leader will decide on the best alternative option, considering the group’s best interests. We strive to minimize the impact of any changes, but please understand that we cannot be held liable for the outcomes of such changes or delays.
What makes Lower Dolpo Trek special?
Trek to lower Dolpo is a very special for tourists due to its unique natural attractions and cultural richness. This trek covers remote, unspoiled regions of Nepal, showcasing deep valleys, and pristine lakes. It offers a rare chance to experience traditional Tibetan influenced lifestyles, visit ancient monasteries, and enjoy the solitude of less travel path, making it an unforgettable adventure.
Similarly, this journey around the Lower Dolpo is not technical but difficult comparing an express trip to Phoksundo Lake. Therefore, it is best suitable for healthy adults and older teenagers who are comfortable with simple accommodations and traveling in remote areas.
Choose Your Lower Dolpo Trip with a Trusted Local Agency – Gokyo Treks & Expedition
Gokyo Treks & Expedition is a highly rated, local trekking agency in Nepal, popular for delivering safe, authentic, and unforgettable Himalayan adventures. As a licensed operator, our experienced and certified local guide have in-depth knowledge of an iconic Dolpa trails. They select the best routes while sharing authentic cultural insight, ensuring safe, meaningful journeys with a strong commitment to quality service and responsible tourism.
If you are dreaming of an unique mountain trekking experience in Dolpo region, discover our expertly crafted Lower Dolpo trek itinerary. Designed with flexibility, comfort, and affordability in mind, it is an ideal for adventure seekers looking for a rewarding yet well managed ascent.
Booking takes less than five minutes, so simply message us on WhatsApp at +977 9841 249988 or contact us by email. Our friendly team is always ready to customize your trip according to your travel dates, budget, and fitness level.
Whether you are planning a Lower Dolpo trekking or exploring other Himalayan trekking adventures, Gokyo Treks & Expedition is your reliable local partner for a secure, immersive, and truly life changing mountain experience in Nepal.
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From US$ 2621
5% Off US$ 2490| No. of people | Price Per Person |
| 1 | USD 3250 |
| 2 | USD 2490 |
| 3 | USD 2475 |
| 4 - 6 | USD 2425 |
| 7 - 9 | USD 2395 |
| 10 + | USD 2350 |
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