Lower Dolpo is the most recommended trekking in western Nepal with the less cost of permit compare to Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang.
Lower Dolpo lies in the rain shadow of Dhaulagiri, Western Nepal. Snows frequently block passes in the winter so that the best time to trek is from late April to mid-November. Access to the region is via Nepalganj, one of the largest towns in western Nepal, and the first stop from Kathmandu. Flights to the more remote airstrips and trekking access points depart from Nepalganj to Juphal. A walk through the Dunai bazaar should not be missed.
This trek offers an outstanding trekking experience in the remote western region of Nepal. The 15-day trek begins with visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. Next, we fly to Jhupal via Nepalgunj and begin our trek through remote locations admiring the beautiful rain shadow landscape of the Himalayas. Dolpo trekking is a full package of mystical experiences. In addition, this is also one of the few areas where the pre-Buddhist Bon Po religion is still practiced. While on the trek, we get to muse at the yak caravans that maintain the traditional salt trade with Tibet. We also cross two high passes- Numa La and Baga La-and reflect on life amidst the tranquil water of Phoksundo Lake.
This trip is appreciated by all the visitors of Dolpo which leads you through several typical villages and the flat valley like Dho Tarap having enchanting views of nature. From the beautiful Dho valley you will head for Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake of Nepal which is famous for its crystal clear water and turquoise color. There is the magical power of changing the colors of the lake from morning to evening and the lake remains always neat. If you have past experience of trekking to the Himalayas will be better for this trip because this trek exists 5000m high two passes to cross.
Highlights
Arrival in Kathmandu
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. For dinner, you will be served excellent Nepalese cuisine. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Included meals:Dinner
Kathmandu Sightseeing and Permit 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 in Kathmandu.
Included meals: Breakfast
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj: 1 hour
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. In Nepalgunj, we visit the local market, mini-zoo and nearby villages. Overnight in Nepalgunj.
Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Fly from Nepalgunj to Jhupal (Dolpo) (2,320m/7,610ft) and trek to Dunai (2,850m/9,348ft): 45 mins flight, 2-3 hours trek
You will fly to Jhupal 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.
Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Dunai to Tarakot (2,543m/8,341ft): 5-6 hours
After breakfast our trek continues along the southern bank of the Bheri River heading upstream on an easy trail. Along the way, we pass through several deep gorges, hanging bridges and isolated villages. Our trail also includes a tremendous gorge with pine trees and a path built about seven meters above the river. After walking for a while, we will be greeted by the colorful, terraced field of Tarakot, a small village that stands on a hillock to the south of the Bheri River. Overnight in Tarakot.
Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Tarakot to Laini (3,160 m/10,365 ft): 6-7 hours
Today you will walk alongside Tarap river and cross it twice before reaching Sandul Gompa. The gompa lies at a juncture between Barbung Khola and Tarap Chu river. We continue walking on a trail that takes us through farm terraces and rural villages. After ascending and descending for a while, we finally reach Laini. Overnight in Laini.
Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Laini to Nawarpani (3,545m/11,627 ft): 5-6 hours
We climb on a steep trail and walk along switchback above the Tarap River. The walk is quite exciting as the valley becomes a narrow gorge that in some places you can jump from one side to another. Several vigorous climbs and descents will take us to the banks of the Chyugur Khola, from where we reach Nawarpani. Overnight in Nawarpani.
Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Nawarpani to Do Tarap (4,090m/13,415ft): 7-8 hours
We begin today’s trek by gradually ascending to Kamattarka at the confluence of the Tarap Chu and Lang Khola. We cross a narrow gorge and leave the tree line behind us and welcome wild rose and juniper bushes, typical of the dry inner Himalayan valleys. After walking for several more hours, we reach the village of Dho Tarap which is surrounded by an irregular stone wall. In this Valley both Bon Po and Chaiba religious sects reside together. Tarap is also inhabited by a few Tibetans and mostly Magars who have lived here for many generations. Overnight in Do Tarap.
Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Rest Day at Dho Tarap for acclimatization
The day off will assist with acclimatization and allow some bodily rest. We can spend the day visiting nearby monasteries. During today’s short walks, we also get a chance to get acquainted with the local culture. The Dolpo people wear homespun clothing that is sometimes dyed a maroon color and they favor Tibetan style somba or dhocha (boots with upturned toes) for footwear. Both men and women often wear religious amulets and strings of coral, amber, and turquoise. The people of the region are both Bon Po and Nyingmapa (Buddhist sects). Overnight in Dho Tarap.
Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Trek to Numa La Base Camp (4440m/14,563 ft): 6-7 hours walk
We trek towards the upper Tarap valley enjoying views of lush grasslands on both sides of the river which is unique to this part of the inner Dolpo. We walk alongside Tarap Chu river and take pleasure in the amazing views of the vast Tarap valley with its wide plains and high mountains. A few hours' good walks takes us to the village of Tokyu which houses a Buddhist monastery of the Chiba sect. After exploring the monastery, we continue walking up the valley on a rough trail before reaching the Numa La Base Camp. Overnight in Numa La Base Camp.
Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Cross Numa La pass (5,190m/17,023ft), camp at Denigar (4510m/14,796 ft): 6-7 hours
Today is going to be the toughest and one of the longest days of our trek. After breakfast, we begin crossing the Numa La pass on a steep trail all the way up the top ridge of the pass. From the ridge we get incredible views of the barren mountains of Dolpo up to Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m).After getting to the top of Numa La, we descend to camp at Pelung Tang and continue to Denigar.
[Included meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner] Overnight at tented camp
Cross Baga La pass (5,070m/16,630ft), trek to Yak Kharka (3860m/12664ft 6-7 hours
After breakfast we begin our steep climb up to the top of Baga La pass. From here, we get fantastic views of the dry landscape and the distant snow-capped mountains including Mt. Kanjirowa. We spend some time at the top of the pass taking pictures and generally enjoying the mesmerizing views. Next, we descend to Dajok Tang and then to Yak Kharka for an overnight stay.
[Included meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner] Overnight at tented camp
Yak Kharka to Ringmo (3,600m/11,808ft): 3-4 hours
We spend most of today’s trek on trails alongside beautiful pine forests and alpine vegetation. After trekking for a short while on an easy trail with only gradual highs and lows, we reach Ringmo Village. The village is a traditional Tibetan village of the Dolpo region.
[Included meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner] Overnight at tented camp
Exploration Around Phoksundo Lake
Today you will visit Bonpo Monastery and hike around the beautiful lake. The afternoon will will be time for relaxation and rest.
Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Phoksundo Lake to Shyanta (2520m/8265 ft): 5-6 hours walk
We trek downhill to Chepka. From Chepka the trail follows a massive overhanging rock. During our trek, we find many important medicinal minerals which are believed to cure almost anything in this area. The route then passes through villages, before climbing to Shyanta. Overnight in Shyanta.
Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Shyanta to Jhupal
We march towards Jhupal via Sulighat on a trail surrounded by birch trees. From atop a ridge, we get the most spectacular views of the mountain above us and Jhupal Village below. Utmost caution is required while trekking along this trail. After reaching Jhupal, we can spend our afternoon exploring the busy market town or simply taking a rest. Overnight in Jhupal.
Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Fly to Nepalgunj, fly to Kathmandu
We take the earliest flight from Jhupal to Nepalgunj. Upon reaching Nepalgunj, we return to Kathmandu on the next available flight. Upon our arrival in Kathmandu, we will be transferred to our hotel. There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize the photos. To celebrate the successful completion of our journey, we will have a farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Included meals: Breakfast-Lunch
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.
* 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 Supplement is an extra charge (incase of single travelers).
Checklists for Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek
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
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.
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
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