Lower Dolpo Trek

5.0

Based on 1 Reviews

Lower Dolpo Trekking

Lower Dolpo Trek Summary

    1. Dolpo Hike Duration: 16 Days
    2. Dolpo Trip Difficulty: Easy to Moderate grade
    3. High Altitude: 5,070m/16,634 feet
    4. Trekking Hour: 6 Hours
    5. Group-Size: 2 – 12 People
    6. Best Time to Hike: April, May, June, September, October, and November
    7. Trip Mode: Tent Trek
    8. Meals on Trek: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    9. Transportation : Car/Plane/Bus

Overview

The Lower Dolpo Trek is famous for its isolated area and is home to the popular Shey Phoksundo National Park. It’s located under the protected area and takes us to superb Phoksundo lake with beautiful flora and fauna.

Dolpa is situated in the Karnali region of Nepal and required special permits from the government of Nepal. Dolpo Trek has three adventure high passes such as Kangmara La (5,115m), Numa La (5,159m), and Baga La (5,190 m.) are mainly challenging en route.

Dolpo Trek is a very dry, unproductive, and also isolated area in the western region of Nepal. People lived here with a difficult life but they were very humble and friendly with their smiling faces. Shey Phoksundo lake is the deepest lake in Nepal that is situated in this territory. Thus, nowadays, it is a very popular trek in western Nepal.

Lower Dolpa trek route has a moderate to strenuous trek difficulty level. The hike ascends Shey Phoksundo lake, and Phoksundo nature park, and experiences the local tribe’s lifestyle. likewise, Tourists can explore the ancient Buddhist Monasteries and typical villages, and impressive Tibetan highland landscapes.

Dolpo to Rara Trek or Shey Phoksundo to rara is another impressive trek route but takes 25+ days hiking via Phoksundo lake. The main attraction of the Dolpo to the Rara trek are two major lakes — Rara Lake and Shey Phoksundo lake. It is a proper blend of Nepal’s largest and small National Parks.

Shey Phoksundo National Park landscapes and the lifestyle of the local inhabitants still earn their livelihood by trading commodities like salt, cotton, barley, and rice in Tibet.

How much does Lower Dolpo Trek Package Cost/Price?

The cost of a lower Dolpo trek package with a local agency Gokyo Treks & Expedition ranges between US$ 2350 to US$ 3250. In the given package price includes transportation, a guide, porters, hotels and food accommodation and hiking permits, facilities.

We have also low-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 hike the lower Dolpo for free.

However, we often arrange private trips in order to avoid group tours with strangers. A private tour gives you a better experience of hiking in the wilderness areas. If you value personalization, flexibility, and in-depth experiences, a private trip customized to your personal needs will be the best option.

It is the standard trip package price for 16 days trek. 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 the lower Dolpo treks.

Price Per Person for 16 days hikes in lower Dolpo territory.

Number of TouristPrice Per Person
1 PersonUS$ 3250
2 PersonUS$ 2490
3 PersonUS$ 2475
4 to 6 personUS$ 2425
7 to 9 PersonUS$ 2395
10 and more than 10 PersonUS$ 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

Wilderness Dolpo is a classic trail with 16 days itinerary compared to most walks into the remote corner of Nepal. The particular route is designed for world travelers who wish to hike in a more relaxed manner than take a look at this itinerary. However for travelers who wish to do it quickly but are walking with limited time wise than ask us for a tailor-made itinerary.

1 DayArrival in Kathmandu valley. Lower Dolpo restricted area trek permit arrangements.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, Tribhuvan International Airport, we pick you up and transfer you to a hotel in Kathmandu with a private vehicle. We need your original passport with Nepal’s Visa to prepare Lower Dolpo restricted area permit. After some hours of official formalities making Dolpo permits, we fix for meeting to introduce your guide, and he will brief you on the Dolpo circuit trek.

2 DayKathmandu to Nepalgunj city flight. Transfer to your hotel.

In the afternoon, our 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.

3 DayNepalgunj to Jhupal flight [35 Minutes] and Dunai hikes (2,150m/7,054 feet), 3 hours.

In the Morning, fly from Nepalgunj to Jhupal in 35 minutes. Trek from Jhupal to Dunai is roughly about 3 hours of walking and then overnight at Tent Camp. Gokyo Treks agency’s professional cook cooks a delicious meal for you.

4 Day Dunai to Tarakot trekking (2355m/7,727 feet), 5/6 hours.

Trek from Dunai to Tarakot which takes around 6 hours of walking and then overnight at Tent Camp.

5 DayTarakot to Laina Udar trekking (3246m/10,650 feet), 6/7 hours.

Trek from Tarakot to Laina Udar takes around 7 hours of walking and then overnight at Tent Camp.

6 Day Laina Udar to Sim Udar trekking (3585m/11,762 feet), 5/6 hours

Trek from Laina Udar to Sim Udar takes around 6 hours of journey. Stay overnight at Tent Camp.

7 Day Sim Udar to Dho trap trek (4070m/13,353 feet), 6/7 hours

Trek from Sim Udar to Dhotrap hiking trail takes around 7 hours. Search for the best camping ground to stay overnight.

8 Day Discovering day around Dho trap village [Acclimatization day] .

This day, Tourists can visit Gompa and the local villages. Stay overnight at the same place.

9 Day Trek from Dho trap to Numala Base Camp (4630m/15,191 feet), 5/6 hours

Dho Tarap to Numala Base Camp hiking trail is not very difficult however it takes around 6 hours. Stay overnight at Tent Camp.

10 Day Trek from Numala Base Camp to Danayghar (4470m/14,666 feet), 6 hours.

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 hike to Danayghar which takes another couple of hours of hiking. Stay overnight at Tent Camping.

11 Day Danayghar to Bagala Pass (5,100m) and hike to Yak Kharka (3,965m/13,009 feet), 7 hours.

Trek from Danayghar to Bagala Pass is an adventure hiking trail. Tourists can reach the Bagala Pass highest viewpoint at 5,100 meters. Cross the summit and walk further at Yak Kharka where we fix our tent camp to stay overnight.

12 Day Shey Phoksundo lake trek (3,611.5m/11,849 feet), 6 hours.

Trek from Yak Kharka to Shey Phoksundo Lake marks a soft adventure hike in the Dolpo section. Phoksundo Lake is an alpine freshwater oligotrophic lake in Nepal’s Shey Phoksundo National Park, located at an elevation of 3,611.5 meters above sea level in the Dolpa District.

145 meters deep in Phoksundo lake is the deepest lake in Nepal and is located in the far west of Nepal. The Phoksundo Lake has a water surface of 494 ha (1,220 acres) and was declared a Ramsar site in September 2007. The lake is up to 145m (476 feet) deep, measured using echo-sounding technology.

13 Day Shey-Phoksundo lake day tour.

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 hike to the Tibetan village of Ringmo and also explore sacred Phoksundo Lake and Tshowa Gompa.

14 DayRechi hiking trail (2,940m/9,646 feet), 4/5 hours

Trek from Shey-Phoksundo Lake to Rechi hiking trail is awesome. Trailhead descends down at Rechi village which is located at an altitude under 3,000 meters. Set up the campsite to stay overnight in a tent camping.

15 Day Rechi to Kagani village trekking (2,272m/7,454 feet), 6/7 hours.

Today, we have a soft adventure hike from Rechi to Kagani village. The journey takes around 7 hours of easy hiking to reach Kakani village.

16 DayKagani to Jhupal airport (2320m/7,612 feet), 4 hours.

It’s the final day of the Dolpo circuit trekking tour and the journey to Juphal airport takes around 4-hour hikes. Reaching Dolpo airport, the kitchen crew set up a campsite and prepare a special farewell dinner for a successful trip. The hiking crew can enjoy delicious food with some farewell drinks and sings famous trekking songs and dance moments.

17 Day Fly from Jhupal to Nepalgunj and to Kathmandu.

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 does Lower Dolpo Trek cost?

Hike to Lower Dolpo cost US$ 2490 is standard trek price on double occupancy basis. For the deluxe and luxury trekking tour plan, we add a 3 to 5-star category hotel deluxe air-conditioned room in Kathmandu, and a 3-star category hotel room in Nepalgunj airport with breakfast. AND WE ARE OPEN TO CUSTOMIZING YOUR TOUR AND PACKAGE PRICE AS PER YOUR REQUIREMENTS. International tour leaders are highly encouraged to get discounts and attractive complimentary.

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.
  • 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, donation 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.
  • Any donation and monument entrance fees.
  • Gratuities for guide, cook, and porters [Tip is a culture, so they expect highly].
  • Any other things which are not mentioned above

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: It is suitable for keen trekkers/walkers who are able to walk around 4 or 5 hours a day, with a lightweight daypack. For this trekking, if you have a little experience would be better.

Question: What kind of accommodation can I expect on Lower Dolpo Trekking?

Answer: We provide you tourist standard accommodation in Kathmandu and Tented accommodation during the trekking routes. However we recommend you take your own sleeping bags if you have one with you otherwise, you may rent them while you are in Kathmandu.

Question: What kind of food can I expect on this trek?

Answer: During the tented camping trekking, our professional cook prepares a delicious range of mostly vegetarian such as Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, rice curry, bread, soups, and fresh vegetables (variety depending on the season.

Question: What opportunities will I have for a shower along with Lower Dolpo Trekking?.

Answer: As you are camping trekking, we provide you hot water bucket then you will take a bucket shower.

Question: How do I get drinking water on Dolpo Trekking?

Answer: During the trekking route there are all places hotels and shops where you can able to buy mineral water and you can buy it for drinking but however we advise against buying mineral water in plastic bottles, as currently there are no provisions for disposing of these. Instead, we provide boiled water or bring chlorine tablets to purify the normal water as the normal water is available on the campsite route.

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.

Question: When should I book my trip and what are the payment terms?

Answer: Because our trips book up months in advance, we recommend booking early to avoid any kind of misunderstanding. We will, of course, make every effort to accommodate last-minute bookings. And regarding the trip deposit, we prefer 25% advance money in order to confirm your reservation before you arrive in Nepal. And the remaining part of the payment is possible to pay upon your arrival in Nepal.

Question: Who will carry my luggage on express Lower Dolpo Trekking?

Answer: We provide donkeys/yaks to transfer your luggage, food supplies, and all camping gear.

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 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 prevent slips and falls. They are just recommended but not compulsory.

Question: How much additional money do I need per day?

Answer: You can allocate US$ 08 – 10 for a lunch/dinner in Kathmandu and it depends on your spending habits. US$ 7 to 10 US$ each day will be enough to buy bottles of water, chocolates, tea coffee, and some drinks while you are on your trek.

Lower Dolpo Trek highlights and side trips

Although you are hiking the main classical trail at Dolpo, there are still many interesting things to see on your side trips. These types of facts are also marked as the top highlights of Dolpo trekking.

  • Phoksundo Lake is famous for its magnificent turquoise color and the spectacular scenery clearly ranks it with the most scenic summits in the world.
  • Ringmo village, a typical Tibetan village, is scenically nestled in the area.
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park offers everything they would not expect in their wildest dreams, from the gigantic Himalayas to the deepest lakes
  • Discover the challenging Numa la and Baga la high passes along the route.
  • Ancient and isolated villages, Buddhist monasteries, Enthralling culture, and tradition.
  • The territory of Snow Leopards 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 of north-western Nepal.

Lower Dolpo trek Notes

Travel solo for Dolpo is not possible unless you have special permits. If you are a solo traveler and trying to hike at Dolpo territory in the high season then possible to find other travelers to share permits. And when you have your Dolpo hiking permits, you can take a flight to Juphal and begin your journey.

The amazing and authentic Dolpa trek itinerary is subject to change due to a condition beyond our control. This is a simple Guideline showing tentative camp night stops. A physical, technical, and natural condition may change the above itineraries.

What makes Lower Dolpo Trek special?

Opportunities for challenging trekking or hiking and pleasant ramble are scattered all over this planet. You just need to find the right camping outdoors which suits you. We at Gokyo Treks and Expedition believe in quality services.

First safety and success satisfaction is our prime concern. We are a team of professional, skilled, and licensed local guides who know the destination much better than others.

Lower Dolpo Trek Review

Best Agency, Excellent service

Rated 5.0 out of 5
May 12, 2017

Great trek, run by competent people, a special guide called SOM Shrestha and Kamal Khatri and a nice carrier. Fantastic landscapes and unforgettable encounters. Gokyo Treks is the right agency to make a trek in Nepal!!! Thanks at all!. – Cristiano Lissoni, Milano, Italy.

Avatar for Cristiano Lissoni, Milano, Italy.
Cristiano Lissoni, Milano, Italy.

Response from Gokyo Treks Nepal

Thank you Christiano for the time to review your trek with us. We hope to welcome you again for your trip in the Himalayas again.

From US$ 2621

5% Off US$ 2490See Group Discount
No. of peoplePrice Per Person
1USD 3250
2USD 2490
3USD 2475
4 - 6USD 2425
7 - 9USD 2395
10 +USD 2350
Tripadvisor award of Gokyo TreksBook NowCustomize Trip

Quick Inquiry

    Cost & Departures

    Your Trip Your Style!

    ITINERARY, COST, DEPARTURES, will adjusted according to your GROUP SIZE NEED TIME

    Book with Confidence

    • Local Guides Company.
    • 18 Years in Business.
    • Lowest Price Guaranteed.
    • 100% Customizable Trips
    • Excellent Customer Service
    • Hassle Free Booking.
    • 90 % Repeated customers
    • Highly Recommended agency
    • Private/group tour options