| Duration | 18 |
| Max. altitude | 5190 m |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Transportation | Localbus/4wheeldrive/flight |
| Accommodation | Tea Houses/Homestay during Trek |
| Trip starts/ends | Kathmandu / Kathmandu |
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Asiana Treks & Tours will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. You’ll have the rest of the day to relax after your long flight. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with your guide and fellow trekkers at a local Nepali restaurant, where you can get to know your trekking crew. Kathmandu’s bustling streets are vibrant, and you may want to explore the Thamel area for some souvenirs or simply rest up for the days ahead.
Today is dedicated to preparing for the trek. While your trekking permits (including the Restricted Area Permit for Dolpo) are processed, you'll enjoy a full day of sightseeing around Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the serene Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), a hilltop stupa offering panoramic views of the valley; the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples in the world; and the massive Boudhanath Stupa, a spiritual site for Buddhists. The evening will be spent with a briefing on the upcoming trek, finalizing your packing list, and reviewing the journey ahead.
After breakfast, we’ll take a morning flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, which takes about 1 hour. The flight offers stunning views of the Himalayas, giving you a preview of what’s to come. Nepalgunj is a busy town near the Indian border, and the atmosphere here is much warmer and humid than Kathmandu. You’ll have time to rest and perhaps explore the local markets. You can visit Bageshwori Temple or simply relax and prepare for the early flight to Juphal tomorrow.
We take an early morning flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal, a small airstrip in the Dolpo region. This scenic flight lasts approximately 35 minutes and offers magnificent views of the Dhaulagiri and Kanjirowa peaks. Once we arrive in Juphal, we begin our trek, heading toward Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpo. The trail follows the Bheri River, passing through lush forests, terraced fields, and small villages. After a relatively short trek (about 3-4 hours), we’ll reach Dunai, where we’ll set up camp or check into a local lodge. This is our first taste of the remote, untouched beauty of Dolpo.
The day’s trek is about 5-6 hours as we follow the Thuli Bheri River, crossing several suspension bridges. The path meanders through forests and traditional villages. We’ll encounter small farms with barley fields and charming stone houses. As we ascend and cross ridges, the view of the valley becomes even more dramatic. By the afternoon, we’ll arrive in Tarakot, an ancient fortress town with a rich history. We will have time to explore the Tarakot Fortress and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Today’s journey takes us deeper into the Tarap Valley, passing by traditional Tibetan-style settlements and Buddhist shrines. The terrain becomes steeper, and we cross several gorges, each more spectacular than the last. The trail climbs gradually through forests of pine and juniper. After a 6-hour trek, we’ll reach Laini, a small, peaceful settlement at 3160 meters. We will camp here, surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes.
Our trek today takes us across some of the most dramatic landscapes of the trek. As we ascend along the Tarap River and climb higher, we’ll notice the change in vegetation, transitioning from forests to alpine meadows. The trail becomes more remote as we pass through isolated villages. After about 5-6 hours of walking, we reach Nawarpani, a small village at 3545 meters. The evening is free for relaxation, and you may enjoy some local Tibetan barley bread and tea with the villagers.
The trek to Dho Tarap is challenging but rewarding. The trail leads us through rugged terrain, with stunning views of high mountain ranges and vast, open valleys. We’ll pass through yak pastures, stone houses, and Buddhist stupas along the way. After 7-8 hours of trekking, we will arrive at Dho Tarap, one of the highest human settlements in Nepal, at 4090 meters. The village is known for its unique blend of Bon and Buddhist traditions, and we will have the opportunity to visit Ribo Bhumpa Monastery.
Today is an important acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. You’ll have the chance to rest, explore the Dho Tarap area, and learn about the local Bonpo culture. You can visit monasteries, enjoy short hikes to nearby viewpoints, or simply relax and enjoy the magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. Acclimatization is key to a successful trek in the Himalayas, and this day will ensure that we are prepared for the challenges ahead.
Today, we begin our ascent towards the Numa La Pass. The trail winds through open, windswept valleys and alpine meadows dotted with yaks. As we continue to climb, the landscape becomes more barren and rugged. After 5-6 hours of trekking, we arrive at Numa La Base Camp at 4440 meters, where we will set up camp and prepare for the crossing of Numa La Pass the next day.
Today is one of the most physically demanding days, as we trek up to Numa La Pass (5190m), the highest point of the trek. The ascent is steep, and the thin air makes the climb challenging. However, the reward is worth it: from the summit, you’ll have stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, as well as the surrounding peaks of Dolpo. After reaching the pass, we descend to Penung Tang, where we’ll camp for the night at 4465 meters.
We continue our journey by crossing Baga La Pass (5070m), another high point of the trek. The trail today offers breathtaking views and a sense of isolation as we navigate the rugged terrain. After reaching Baga La Pass, we descend to Dajok Tang, a peaceful campsite at 4080 meters, where we can rest and recover from the challenging passes.
We now begin our descent into the heart of Dolpo. The trail takes us through lush forests of juniper and pines, crossing high ridges and scenic valleys. After 5-6 hours of trekking, we reach Ringmo, a traditional Tibetan village at 3600 meters. The village is known for its stone houses and Buddhist stupas, and we will enjoy a relaxing evening, perhaps visiting the local monastery.
Today’s short trek (about 3-4 hours) brings us to one of the most stunning natural wonders of the trek: Phoksundo Lake. This turquoise alpine lake, surrounded by high cliffs, is the deepest lake in Nepal. We’ll set up camp by the lake and explore the area, including a visit to the nearby Tshowa Monastery. This is a place of peace and reflection, and you’ll have plenty of time to absorb the breathtaking beauty of your surroundings.
After enjoying the serene beauty of Phoksundo Lake, we begin our descent towards Shyanta. The trail takes us through lush forests and rocky landscapes, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. We follow the path along the Phoksundo River, passing through small settlements and experiencing the tranquility of Dolpa’s remote wilderness. As we descend, the vegetation changes, with pine and fir trees becoming more prominent. The trek is relatively moderate, with a few steep sections requiring careful footing. After several hours of walking, we reach Shyanta, a picturesque village nestled in the foothills, where we rest for the night.
Today marks our final day of trekking as we make our way back to Juphal. The trail continues through dense forests and small villages, where we can interact with the locals and learn more about their traditional way of life. The descent is gradual, making it a comfortable walk as we pass through terraced fields and charming settlements. As we approach Juphal, the landscape becomes more familiar, with cultivated lands and houses built along the hillsides. Upon reaching Juphal, we celebrate the successful completion of our trek and reflect on the incredible journey through the remote and mystical landscapes of Lower Dolpa.
Early in the morning, we take a scenic flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, enjoying breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan foothills. Upon arrival in Nepalgunj, we board another flight to Kathmandu. As we return to the bustling city, we are welcomed by the vibrant energy of Nepal’s capital. After checking into our hotel, we have the rest of the day to relax or explore the city. Whether it’s shopping for souvenirs, visiting cultural sites, or enjoying a delicious meal, Kathmandu offers a perfect way to conclude our adventure. In the evening, Asiana Treks & Tours hosts a farewell dinner to celebrate our successful journey.
After an unforgettable trekking experience in Lower Dolpa, it’s time to bid farewell to Nepal. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Our team will assist with airport transfers, ensuring a smooth departure. As you leave Kathmandu, you carry with you cherished memories of the breathtaking landscapes, the warm hospitality of the locals, and the remarkable adventure through one of Nepal’s most remote and untouched regions. Asiana Treks & Tours thanks you for choosing us for your trekking journey, and we hope to welcome you back for another incredible adventure in the Himalayas. Safe travels!
Lower Dolpa Trekking – Start Point and How to Get There
The adventure to Lower Dolpa begins in Kathmandu, Nepal’s bustling capital city. All international trekkers will arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), where a representative from Asiana Treks and Tours will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After initial briefings, sightseeing, and trek preparation, the journey proceeds with a domestic flight to Nepalgunj, a city located near the Indian border in western Nepal. From there, a scenic flight to Juphal—a small airstrip perched in the Himalayan foothills—marks the official start of the trekking route.
Reaching Juphal involves navigating weather-dependent flight schedules, as the airstrip is small and susceptible to delays. Asiana Treks and Tours handles all flight bookings, connections, and contingency planning to ensure a seamless transition to the trail. Once in Juphal, a short trek leads to Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpa, where the real trekking experience begins.
Travel Overview:
Start Point: Kathmandu (1,400m)
Access Route: Flight from Kathmandu → Nepalgunj (150m) → Juphal (2,320m)
First Trekking Village: Dunai (2,850m)
Logistics Support: All flights, airport transfers, and permits arranged by Asiana Treks and Tours
From Juphal onward, trekkers enter one of the most remote regions of Nepal, surrounded by the grandeur of Shey Phoksundo National Park and the centuries-old culture of the Dolpo people.
Day-by-Day Lower Dolpa Trekking Itinerary
The Lower Dolpa Trek is a meticulously crafted 18-day journey designed by Asiana Treks and Tours to maximize both cultural immersion and high-altitude adventure. This itinerary covers everything from permit processing in Kathmandu to awe-inspiring high passes and pristine lakes.
Trekkers spend the first two days in Kathmandu for sightseeing and permit arrangements before flying to Nepalgunj and then Juphal. From Juphal, the trek begins in earnest, moving through Dunai, Tarakot, Laini, Nawarpani, and then climbing to Dho Tarap—one of the highest permanent settlements in the world. A rest and acclimatization day in Dho Tarap ensures safe altitude adjustment before ascending Numa La Pass (5,190m) and Baga La Pass (5,070m).
The trail then descends to Ringmo and Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal’s most beautiful high-altitude lakes. The final days descend gradually through Shyanta and back to Juphal, followed by a return flight to Kathmandu for a restful conclusion.
Itinerary Highlights:
Day 1–2: Arrival and sightseeing in Kathmandu
Day 3–4: Fly to Nepalgunj and Juphal, trek to Dunai
Day 5–9: Gradual altitude gain to Dho Tarap
Day 10–12: High passes—Numa La and Baga La
Day 13–16: Phoksundo Lake and descent to Juphal
Day 17–18: Return flights and departure
This comprehensive route is designed to balance physical challenge with adequate acclimatization and cultural interaction, guided by experienced local staff from Asiana Treks and Tours.
Trek Distance, Duration & Elevation Gain on Lower Dolpa Trekking
The Lower Dolpa Trek is one of Nepal’s most demanding and rewarding long-distance treks, covering a total distance of approximately 180–200 kilometers, depending on the specific route and side trips. Spread across 14 trekking days, the journey includes multiple ascents and descents, crossing some of the highest and most scenic terrain in western Nepal.
One of the trek's key challenges is the elevation gain. The trail begins around 2,320 meters at Juphal and ascends to over 5,190 meters at Numa La Pass, followed shortly by Baga La Pass at 5,070 meters. This makes for cumulative elevation gains of over 3,000 meters, requiring careful pacing and proper acclimatization.
Trekking Stats:
Total Trekking Days: 14 (out of 18 days total)
Distance Covered: ~180–200 km (approx. 12–15 km/day)
Maximum Elevation: 5,190m (Numa La Pass)
Average Daily Duration: 6–8 hours of walking
Elevation Gain: Cumulative ~3,000+ meters
Asiana Treks and Tours structures the itinerary to allow trekkers to gradually adapt to altitude, with two high passes and one rest day built into the schedule. The trek demands moderate to high fitness levels and rewards you with unmatched vistas, cultural encounters, and raw Himalayan beauty.
Types of Accommodation on Lower Dolpa Trekking
Accommodations along the Lower Dolpa trail range from basic teahouses to fully-supported camping, depending on the location and infrastructure available. In more developed villages like Dunai, Tarakot, and Dho Tarap, teahouses and local lodges provide simple rooms with shared toilets and basic meals. These facilities are often run by local families, offering an authentic and intimate experience.
However, in higher or more remote sections—such as near Numa La Base Camp, Penung Tang, or Baga La Pass—there are no fixed lodges, and camping becomes necessary. Asiana Treks and Tours organizes fully-equipped camping experiences, including tents, kitchen facilities, sleeping mats, and a trained cook. Meals are freshly prepared and tailored to your dietary preferences, ensuring comfort and nutrition even in isolated areas.
Accommodation Overview:
Teahouses/Lodges in accessible villages (Dunai, Dho Tarap, Ringmo)
Tented Camps in remote/high-altitude zones (Numa La, Baga La, etc.)
Shared toilets and limited bathing facilities
Sleeping bags provided (or bring your own -15°C rated)
All logistics handled by Asiana Treks and Tours team
With careful planning and support staff, Asiana Treks and Tours ensures that whether you’re resting in a humble lodge or a mountaintop tent, your accommodations are safe, warm, and well-managed, adding to the overall quality of your Himalayan experience.
Meals & Food Options on Lower Dolpa Trekking Route
Food is a critical part of your energy and well-being on the Lower Dolpa Trek. As this region is remote and largely undeveloped for commercial tourism, food options are basic, locally sourced, and often vegetarian. Asiana Treks and Tours ensures that all trekkers receive three healthy and hygienic meals per day during the trek. In villages like Dunai, Dho Tarap, and Ringmo, you’ll dine at small teahouses or local lodges offering traditional Nepali fare. In remote or high-altitude areas without teahouses, our trekking crew provides full-service camping meals cooked by experienced trekking chefs.
Typical meals include Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice and vegetables), noodle soup, boiled or fried potatoes, pasta, Tibetan bread, and seasonal greens. In lower regions, you may occasionally get eggs or even limited meat options, but vegetarian meals are strongly recommended for health and hygiene at higher elevations. Our team can also accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice.
What to Expect:
Freshly cooked hot meals, even in high camps
Vegetarian-based, nutritious diet to support trekking energy
Tea, coffee, and hot water provided regularly
No bottled water—treated water offered instead
Meals served in dining tents or teahouse kitchens
With Asiana Treks and Tours, your food experience is safe, clean, and well-managed, ensuring you stay energized and healthy throughout the journey.
Packing List for Lower Dolpa Trekking
Packing correctly is essential for a successful trek in Lower Dolpa due to its remote location, extreme elevations, and varying weather conditions. Asiana Treks and Tours provides porters to carry your main gear, but you’ll still need to bring essential items in your daypack. The terrain ranges from warm valleys to freezing high passes, so layering is crucial. We recommend investing in high-quality, moisture-wicking, and weather-resistant clothing.
In addition to standard trekking gear like boots, sleeping bags, and walking poles, it’s important to carry warm thermal layers, a down jacket, and sun protection like sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats. Don’t forget personal hygiene supplies, water purification tablets, and a first aid kit. Asiana Treks and Tours provides a full checklist prior to your departure and can assist you with rentals in Kathmandu if needed.
Packing Essentials:
Base layers, fleece, and down jacket
Waterproof shell jacket and pants
Trekking boots, sandals for camp, wool socks
Sleeping bag (-15°C or lower)
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm
Reusable water bottle + purification method
Power bank/solar charger for electronics
Daypack (5–7 kg) for daily use
With proper packing and guidance from Asiana Treks and Tours, you’ll be fully equipped for every challenge the Dolpa region presents.
Solo Trekkers & Female Trekker Advice for Lower Dolpa Trekking
Solo travelers and female trekkers often wonder about safety and comfort in remote regions like Lower Dolpa. With Asiana Treks and Tours, both are fully supported. While Dolpa is a restricted trekking area, meaning you cannot trek completely alone (you must be part of a group with a licensed guide), solo trekkers can still join small groups or arrange private treks with personalized support. Our team ensures that even solo travelers are never left without experienced staff and companionship on the trail.
Female trekkers are equally welcomed and safe on this route. The Dolpo region is culturally respectful and conservative, and while women travelers should dress modestly, they are often greeted with genuine curiosity and kindness. Asiana Treks and Tours employs trained, professional guides and support staff, some of whom are female, and we ensure safe lodging, private tents, and clean facilities wherever available.
Key Advice for Solo & Female Trekkers:
You must join a group or hire a guide/porter (solo trekking is not allowed)
Female trekkers should dress modestly and follow local customs
Always carry personal hygiene supplies
Avoid walking alone at night, especially in villages
Asiana provides female-friendly staff upon request
With proper planning, the Lower Dolpa trek is an empowering and enriching journey for all solo and female adventurers under Asiana Treks and Tours’ care.
Transportation Modes: Jeep, Bus, Flight for Lower Dolpa Trekking
Reaching Lower Dolpa requires a combination of domestic flights and limited road travel, as the region is one of the most remote and infrastructure-poor areas in Nepal. The standard and fastest route involves a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by another short flight to Juphal, the trailhead of the trek. These flights are scenic but subject to weather delays due to the small, high-altitude airstrips.
Asiana Treks and Tours arranges all flights and provides contingency plans in case of cancellations or delays. In rare cases, if flights are unavailable, it’s possible to travel partway by bus or jeep from Nepalgunj to Jumla or nearby districts, but this involves long and uncomfortable rides (over 12–18 hours on rough roads) and is only recommended as a last resort.
Transport Breakdown:
Flight 1: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (~1 hour)
Flight 2: Nepalgunj to Juphal (~35 minutes)
Ground Option (only if flights are canceled): Nepalgunj to Dunai via jeep/bus – long, rugged journey
Airport Transfers: All managed by Asiana Treks and Tours
With all domestic travel managed professionally, Asiana Treks and Tours ensures that even in one of Nepal’s most logistically challenging regions, your transport is safe, well-organized, and efficient.
Add-On Tours After Lower Dolpa Trekking
After completing the challenging and rewarding Lower Dolpa Trek, many trekkers seek to relax or explore more of Nepal before heading home. Asiana Treks and Tours offers a variety of add-on tours that complement your Himalayan adventure, providing cultural, spiritual, and scenic experiences that enrich your overall journey. Whether you want to unwind in comfort or continue exploring, we offer personalized options based on your time, interests, and energy levels.
Popular post-trek options include a Chitwan National Park jungle safari for wildlife encounters, a relaxing stay in Pokhara by the lakeside with spa treatments and paragliding, or a spiritual journey to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha. Short cultural tours in Kathmandu Valley—exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Bhaktapur, Pashupatinath, and Patan—are ideal for those with limited time.
Recommended Add-On Tours:
Chitwan National Park: Jungle safari, elephant bathing, and Tharu culture
Pokhara: Boating, paragliding, caves, and peace stupa hikes
Lumbini: Buddhist heritage and monasteries
Kathmandu Cultural Tours: Guided exploration of temples, palaces, and stupas
These add-ons are fully customizable and supported with luxury or budget-friendly options. Asiana Treks and Tours ensures that your post-trek experience is just as fulfilling as your time in the mountains.
Feedback & Reviews from Lower Dolpa Trekking Trekkers
At Asiana Treks and Tours, client satisfaction is our top priority, and the Lower Dolpa Trek consistently receives glowing reviews for its raw beauty, cultural depth, and professional trek management. Many trekkers describe it as a life-changing journey into one of the last remaining untouched corners of the Himalayas. Our guests often praise our experienced guides, well-planned itineraries, and strong safety protocols, especially in this remote and physically demanding region.
We collect feedback at the end of every trek to continually improve our services. Trekkers appreciate the personal attention, cultural insights, and how our team handles everything from logistics to altitude management. Whether it’s support with gear, understanding the Bon and Tibetan Buddhist cultures, or making last-minute changes due to weather, our flexibility and professionalism stand out.
What Our Trekkers Say:
“The most remote and beautiful place I’ve ever seen. Asiana handled everything flawlessly.”
“As a solo female traveler, I felt completely safe and well-supported the entire time.”
“The guides were not just knowledgeable but also caring. Highly recommended for serious trekkers.”
These reviews motivate us to raise the bar for every client. You can read more testimonials on our official website, TripAdvisor, and Google Reviews to see why Asiana Treks and Tours is a trusted name in remote Himalayan trekking.
Departure Support & End-of-Trek Services
After completing your epic Lower Dolpa trek, Asiana Treks and Tours ensures a smooth and comfortable return experience with our comprehensive departure support. Once you fly back from Juphal to Nepalgunj and then Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel where you can rest, freshen up, and reflect on your adventure. Whether your international flight is the next day or a few days later, our team will assist with every step of your departure.
We offer services such as hotel extensions, airport transfers, last-minute shopping trips, luggage storage, and help with flight reconfirmation. Many trekkers also choose to enjoy a farewell dinner hosted by our team—a time to celebrate the successful journey and share stories with fellow trekkers and guides.
End-of-Trek Support Includes:
Domestic flight assistance from Juphal to Kathmandu
Airport pickup/drop-off services
Hotel bookings or extensions in Kathmandu
Certificate of completion and group photos
Farewell cultural dinner (optional)
Asiana Treks and Tours is with you from arrival to departure, ensuring your Lower Dolpa Trek ends just as smoothly as it began. We are happy to help with additional travel planning or onward connections as needed.
Booking Terms, Cancellation & Refunds for Lower Dolpa Trekking Packages
Booking a trek to Lower Dolpa with Asiana Treks and Tours requires both planning and commitment, as the region involves restricted area permits and complex logistics. To confirm your booking, we require a 25% deposit, which can be paid securely via bank transfer or credit card. The remaining balance is due at least 30 days before trek departure.
We understand that travel plans can change unexpectedly. Our cancellation and refund policy is designed to be fair while covering our administrative and third-party costs. Cancellations made more than 30 days before the trek are eligible for a 70% refund of the deposit. Cancellations between 15–30 days prior receive a 50% refund, and those less than 15 days in advance are non-refundable, due to permit processing, flight bookings, and guide allocations.
Booking & Refund Policy Highlights:
25% deposit to confirm booking
Final payment due 30 days before trek
Cancellations:
>30 days: 70% deposit refund
15–30 days: 50% refund
<15 days: No refund
Trip cancellation by company (weather/political issues): Full refund or reschedule
We encourage trekkers to purchase comprehensive travel insurance to protect against unforeseen cancellations. Asiana Treks and Tours will assist in rescheduling or alternative arrangements wherever possible to ensure your investment is safeguarded.