Important Information

Region
Far West Nepal Treks
Duration
25 Days
Max Altitude 5115m
Best Season April - October
Activity Per Day
5-6 hrs
Grade
Level 3
Group Size
2 - 20 people
Transportation Flight - Jeep

The Dolpo to Rara Trek via Kagmara Pass is a long multiday trek in the western region of Nepal. This trek takes place in three different districts of Dolpo, Jumla, and Mugu, the most remote regions of Nepal. Trekking from Lower Dolpo to Rara National park is a lake to lake trek where the Phoksundo and Rara lakes are located, the deepest and largest lakes of Nepal respectively.  

Crossing Kagmara Pass (5115m) is Challenging yet one of the best treks in Far West Nepal. Trekking in Dolpo, Rara, and Jumla will offer you an opportunity to explore the pristine areas nestled in the wild and far-flung countryside of Western Nepal.  This trek is a rewarding journey for anyone who is keen to explore unspoiled nature as well as the well-preserved culture of the Bon inhabitants. 

This 25 days trek to Rara Lake from Dolpo is meant for experienced trekkers, who love to explore the least traveled trekking destination to experience the unspoiled culture, arid landscape, high passes, and the vistas of snow-capped mountains. Himalayan Wander Walkers organized this trek based on a full Camping trip for big group and for small group at teahouse.  Although the information regarding the Dolpo and Rara is very little, our veteran trekking crew leads the trek making it easier as they understand the local dialect and the culture.

Dolpo to Rara Lake Trek Route:

The journey of the Dolpo Rara trek begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, from where you fly to Nepalgunj. The next day after your overnight stay the journey continues with a scenic flight to Juphal airport of Dolpo. The actual trek starts from there to Dunai. The trek leads to Phoksundo Lake and then heads to Jumla via Kagmara pass. The places and campsites that cater during the trek are least explored and authentic. From Jumla the route goes toward the Rara National park and the trek ends at another remote airport in Talcha.

Variation of Dolpo to Rara Trek:

This Trek can also start from Jumla or Talcha airports in the clockwise route and further trek to Dho Tarap in Lower Dolpo Circuit trek. Trekking to Upper Dolpo is possible if you have enough time to do it after the Kagmara Pass.

Outline Itinerary ( 25 Days )

Day 1

Arrival to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft.)

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, a representative from Himalayan Wander Walkers will pick you up from the airport and take us to our hotel. In the afternoon, we may take a rest or visit Himalayan Glacier’s office. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by our company.

Overnight: at the hotel set with BB plan.

Day 2

Sightseeing tour on the world’s Heritages sites & trek preparation

Today after breakfast we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions 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 the 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. Himalayan Wander Walkers will brief you regarding your trek as well as provide you with an opportunity to ask any questions you may have regarding your upcoming adventure.

Overnight: at the hotel set with BB plan.

Day 3

Flight Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (1500 m)

After our short excursion in Kathmandu, we take 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.

Overnight: at the hotel set with BB plan.

 

Day 4

Nepalgunj to Juphal (2475m)/ early morning flight 35 min. then trek to Dunai (2140m)

You will fly to Juphal after breakfast. 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. We explore the small town in the evening and camp there for the night.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 5

Dunai to Chhepka (2838m)

The real adventure of Dolpo Mustang Trek begins today. As the trek begins we initially trek along the classic trekking route of Dolpo via Sulighar, which is a pretty much a comfortable walk along the leveled trail. We shall produce the trekking permit to Dolpo and the Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit at the Sunlight Check-post. Now we are officially inside Shey Phoksundo National Park. Beyond Sunlight our trek follows the trail beside Phoksundo River till Kageni. As the trek goes further, the landscapes in the vicinity begin to change. We trek through the lush tropical forest frequently emerging at isolated mid-hill villages like Jutung and arrive at Shangta. At Shangta we cross the bridge twice- once over Phoksundo River and once over the confluence of Phoksundo Khola and Maiaba Khola and begin to head north towards Chhepka. Trekking upstream along the trail beside Phoksundo Khola for a while we arrive at Chhepka. We put our camps at an ideal location in Chhepka for the overnight stay.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 6

Chhepka to Chunuwar (Jharana hotel)/ (3110m)

Today the trail leads you beside Phoksundo Khola- the trail of the famous Lower Dolpa Circuit. We trek in the opposite direction of the river flow to Amchi Hospital. The trek crosses the bridge over Phoksundo Khola twice. As we approach closer to Kharka trekking along the amazingly peaceful region the trail goes high above Phoksundo Khola to Rechi 3011m, where we stop for the lunch. Beyond Rechi we again hike along the riverside trail to Sulligad Dovan where we cross the bridge over the confluence of Phoksundo Khola and Yulung Khola and arrive at Chunuwar. We will settle our camps here for the night.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 7

Chunuwar to Phoksundo (3600m)

We will join the direct trail to Phoksundo Lake today climbing through forests of big cedars onto Palam (3710m), a winter settlement used by the people of the Ringmo village. The entrance station for the Shey Phoksundo National Park is at the south end of the village. The route then descends on switchbacks through open country to an elevation of 3300 meters and then starts up another set of dusty switchbacks to a ridge at 3780 meters to the highest waterfall in Nepal (200 meters high). Our route then continues on to Ringmo village, a picturesque settlement of flat-roofed stone houses with lots of mani walls. Just below Ringmo we cross a bridge and follow the trail to Phoksundo Lake, where we camp at the national park camping grounds west.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 8

Phoksundo – explore the lake, gompas, and village (Bon)-camping

Today we explore the area around Ringmo Village and the magnificent Phoksundo Lake. First, we explore around Ringmo Village and head to Tshowa (the lake-shore Bon Monastery). The Gompa nestling a ridge top above Phoksundo Lake was built about 900 years ago. Exploring this culturally rich Bon Monastery is a fascinating experience. Then we drop down to Phoksundo Lake along steep-sided cliffs. The lake is famous for its magnificent turquoise color and spectacular scenery. We will have a beautiful scenic view of typical Tibetan cultured Rigmo village from Phoksundo Lake. There are several monasteries (Gompas ) and Bon-to religious sites at the park and we spend our time visiting some of these. We also explore the wonderful natural sites and enjoy our nature tour.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 9

Phosundo lake (3660m) to Pungmo (3500m)

Today we will follow the same route and come back to Sumduwa and go to Pungmo. This village is totally Bon village you can have some interactions with the people here.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 10

Pungmo to Kagmara high camp (4800m)

From Pungmo the trail goes towards Lasha with slight ups and down through woods. Finally, we reach the spot for the night Kagmara High Camp.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 11

Kagmara high camp to Kagmara Phedi (2900m)

Today the trail will be ascending up to the pass Kagmara La (5115m) then downhill to Kagmara Phedi for the night camp.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

 

Day 12

Kagmara Phedi to Toijum (2920m)

From Kagmara Phedi we proceed towards Toijum.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 13

Toijum to Chaurikot (3060m)

From Toijum the slighting trail we come to Hurikot and then to Kaingaon. There is a Bon monastery in Hurikot and Kaingaon is a beautiful village where you can have a view of the dense forest of pine beside the village. Then we go ahead towards Chaurikot, the trail goes uphill through the village called Thapa gaon.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 14

Chaurikot (3060m) to Chotra

The trail from Chaurikot ascends towards the pass MaureLagna pass 3894m and then the trail goes descending to Chotra for the night stop. The trail goes mostly through the forest with mixed species of plants. One can have nice scenic views around the trail.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 15

Chotra to Gothichaur (2650m)

The way from Chotra to Gothichaur goes through several villages. One can experience the different cultures of most of the Khas people around. There are small woods along the road. 3 hours trek to Manigaon 2820m stops for lunch and 3 hours trek to Gothichaur for the night stay.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 16

Gothichaur to Jumla (2540m)

The trek begins from Gothichaur to Jumla. There are several villages and the motorable road is under construction.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 17

Jumla to Khali Gaon (3685m)/ 6 hours trek

Now you will start your trekking from Jumla taking the trail through some villages. The trail goes somehow straight and it will be easy walking experiencing the social lifestyle of the region. Nearly after the walk of 3 hours, the trail slightly ascends.

After the walk of nearly 4 hours passing a small passes Danphe Nangla (3691 meters), you will reach the village Khaligaon. This is the village where the only technical school in the western region “Karnali Technical School” is producing technical manpower on a regular basis. The village is interesting to observe the activities carried out there. There are some hotels and tea houses to refresh.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 18

Khali gaon to Bulbule (3182m)/ 6-7 hours trek

The trail ascends through the jungle of pine and rhododendron trees and some villages are seen from the trail.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 19

Bulbule to Jhyari trek passing Ghuchi Lagna Pass (3480m)

The trek today is wonderful as we approach closer to Rara Lake every next hour of the day's adventure. On the trek to Rara Lake, we get to witness the cultural delights of rural Nepal, which are extremely unique and fascinating. During the boating, we explore the lakeshore in several corners of the lake, where we witness some of the most beautiful floral species and herbal plants.

Overnight stay will be at Tented Camp.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 20

Jhyari to Rara (2980m)/ 4-5 hours

Trekking along the trails occupying peaceful wilderness, today we arrive at our destination- Rara Lake.

On our arrival at Rara, we set up our camps at the lakeshore in one of the ideal sites. After lunch, we set out to explore Rara Lake. The wonderful boat ride on the most pristine lake of the widespread lake is a fascinating experience.

Overnight stay will be at Tented Camp.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 21

Explore Rara Lake

Rara is the biggest lake in Nepal that gives relief with its magnificent look. The lake is surrounded by forest and different kinds of flowers can be seen by the side. People can cycle around the lake. Boating facilities are also available. There is a hotel by the side but camping is also available.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 22

Rara to Murma Top

This will be a day hike up to the top of Murma with packed lunch. The trail from the lake goes through the pine forest. Murma top is the place where you can have a view of the whole lake and the villages and some mountains. We will be back for the night stop to Rara.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 23

Rara to Talcha/ 4-5 hours trek

From the lake, the trail goes through the jungle by the side of the lake through the Army barrack and National Park office. After a walk of nearly one and a half hours the trail ascends and then it goes downwards for nearly one or one and a half hours to reach you to the airport.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Meal: full-board, three times a day.

Day 24

Talcha to Nepalgunj/ 45 minutes flight and Nepalgunj to Kathmandu/ 55 minutes flight

Today we will take the flight to Nepalgunj then the same day to Kathmandu.

Overnight: at the hotel set with BB plan.

Day 25

Final Departure

We are saying goodbye as your journey to Nepal comes to an end today. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. Approximately 3-4 hours before your scheduled flight a representative from Himalayan Wander walkers will take you to the airport. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

Meal: Breakfast.   

 

Include

Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & transfer by car / Van.
All domestic flights from Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Juphal and Talcha-Nepalgunj-Kathmandu and domestic airport taxes.
3 nights accommodation with breakfast at 3*** hotel in Kathmandu and standard hotel in Nepalgunj.
Kathmandu city tour and all entry fees as per the above itinerary.
Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with Tea & coffee and hot/cold filter water during the trek.
Tented camp and home-stay accommodation during the trek.
1 experienced helpful and friendly guide, 1 cook and necessary porters, their food & accommodation, salary, equipment, and insurance.Trekking Equipment (Tent, mattress, dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, kitchen utensils etc.)
All ground transportation by private car.
Rara National Park Permit.
All necessary permits.
First Aid Medical kit box.
Himalayan Wander Walkers' company Duffle bag for the trek use
Office Service charge.
All Government Tax.

Exclude

Any meals (Lunch and Dinner) in Kathmandu other than breakfast.
Your private Travel insurance.
International airfare to and from Nepal.
Nepal Tourist Visa fee.
Items and expenses of personal nature.
Any kind of alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry, phone call, internet.
Personal Trekking Equipment like sleeping bags, jackets (can be hired in KTM) etc.
Emergency Evacuation (Helicopter Rescue).
Any costs which arise due to a change of the itinerary, because of landslides, political disturbance, and strikes, etc.
Any other costs whatsoever, that is not mentioned in the cost included.
Horse renting and additional porters during the trek due to natural calamities.
Tips for guide, porters, driver

Important Information

* The Price given here is per person based on a minimum of 2 pax. The price will be cheaper with an increase in the number of people.

* Single Room Supplement is an extra charge.

Checklists for Dolpo to Rara Lake Trek by Kagmara Pass

  • Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
  • One other picture ID, such as driver’s license (in case of emergency and for use as a substitute of passport or in case of loss of your passport) Photocopy of passport page to carry in a wallet
  • Air tickets (Make a copy of flight tickets which may be helpful, in case of loss)
  • Visa Clearance (Make a copy of visa clearance which may be helpful, in case of emergencies)
  • MasterCard, Visa Credit, and Debit Cards are accepted in Nepal. However, traveler's cheques and some cash are highly recommended.
  • Mobile (if your cell phone is from CINGULAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators then your cell phone will work in Nepal.)

Guiding, Food, and Camping
In Nepal, all trekking supplies - camping equipment, kitchen implements, food - are all carried by pack animals like mules, Yaks, and horses. Even Porters are common in Nepal. All trekkers are accompanied by a guide, a cook, and usually at least one horseman or yak herder. With the surest footing; they lead trekking groups across the passes. The horseman and cook will usually run ahead during a trekking day. They will have prepared a packed lunch for hikers and will go on to the night’s resting place to set up camp. They set up tents, cook dinner, and ready the area for arriving trekkers. When trekkers reach the campsite they are greeted with a hot cup of tea and biscuits in the dining tent. After six hours in the mountains, no drink will ever taste sweeter. For dinner, the cook will usually prepare a buffet of dishes that are as welcome as they are delicious.

DRESS CODE FOR VISITING MONASTERIES, AND TEMPLES 

  • Shirt (either half or full sleeve)
  • Full pants/long skirts
  • Any type of shoes with socks
  • No Hats, No Umbrella, No Slippers, No t-shirts, No short skirt, and No half-pants
  • Photographs allowed in the courtyard only.

Note regarding itineraries
Although we generally adhere to the schedule, the itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control, including weather and terrain conditions, suitable campsite availability, and the group's general fitness level. It is important to understand that our trek is logistically complex and it is not unusual that adjustments be made. Our guide will orient you each evening to the following day's plan; their good judgment is the key to the long history of successful treks that Himalayan Wander Walkers has led till now. Please remember that our ability to make adjustments as needed helps to ensure that your trek is successful.

Frequently Asked Question

Although trekking gear is available in Nepal you are advised to bring your own gear.

Trekking or running shoes Camp shoes or thongs Socks (polypropylene)

Down or fiber-filled jacket Jumper or piled jacket Hiking shorts Waterproof jackets, poncho or umbrella Hiking pants T-shirts or blouses Underwear Sun hat

Rucksack Self Inflating Sleeping Mattress (optional), Water bottle Torch, batteries, and bulbs