Your adventure begins with an arrival in Kathmandu, where you’ll be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. The next day is dedicated to exploring the vibrant city, visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites, and preparing the necessary permits for the Lower Dolpo trek.
A scenic flight takes you from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a bustling city in the western Terai. From there, another short but spectacular flight brings you to Juphal, the gateway to Dolpo. Upon landing, the trek officially begins as you make your way to Dunai, the administrative headquarters of Dolpa. Following the banks of the Thuli Bheri River, the trail leads to Tarakot, a historic fortress town with ancient monasteries and chortens. The journey continues through rugged terrain and highland pastures, reaching Laini, where you begin to feel the remoteness of the Dolpo region.
The path ascends towards Nawarpani, offering glimpses of the dramatic landscapes that define this region. As you gain altitude, the trek takes you to Dho Tarap, one of the highest human settlements in the world. Here, a well-deserved acclimatization day allows you to explore the traditional Tibetan-influenced culture of the Dolpo people and visit ancient monasteries.
Leaving Dho Tarap behind, the trail climbs towards Numa La Base Camp, preparing for the challenging ascent of Numa La Pass. Reaching the top at 5,190m, you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. The descent leads to Penung Tang, from where another high-altitude challenge awaits at Baga La Pass (5,070m). Crossing the pass, the trail gradually descends to Dajok Tang, where the landscape begins to change as you approach the beautiful Phoksundo region.
The trek continues towards Ringmo, a picturesque village near the mesmerizing turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake. Spending time by the lake, you’ll experience the serene beauty of Shey Phoksundo National Park, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Leaving the lake behind, the descent begins towards Shyanta, passing through dense forests and charming villages. The final leg of the trek takes you back to Juphal, where you bid farewell to the remote wilderness of Dolpo.
A morning flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj reconnects you with civilization before another flight back to Kathmandu. With memories of the pristine landscapes and cultural encounters, your journey concludes as you prepare for your final departure, carrying with you the spirit of the hidden gem that is Lower Dolpo.
Lower Dolpa Trekking Route
The Lower Dolpa Trekking route takes you through one of Nepal’s most remote and untouched regions, offering an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas. The adventure begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by another short but scenic flight to Juphal, the starting point of the trek. From Juphal, the trail gradually ascends through Dunai, Tarakot, and Laini, following the Thuli Bheri River and passing through deep gorges and rugged landscapes.
As you progress, the path leads to Nawarpani and Dho Tarap, an ancient village with a strong Tibetan Buddhist influence. After an acclimatization day in Dho Tarap, the trek continues towards Numa La Base Camp, preparing for a challenging ascent over Numa La Pass (5,190m), one of the highest points of the trek. The route then descends to Penung Tang and climbs again over Baga La Pass (5,070m) before reaching Dajok Tang. From here, the landscape starts to change as you approach Ringmo and the stunning Phoksundo Lake, known for its mesmerizing turquoise waters.
After spending time by the lake, the descent begins through lush forests and traditional villages, passing Shyanta before returning to Juphal. The trek concludes with a flight back to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu, marking the end of an epic journey through the hidden landscapes of Lower Dolpa.
Lower Dolpa Trekking Price
The cost of the Lower Dolpa Trek varies depending on several factors, including the duration of the trek, group size, permit fees, accommodation type, and additional services such as guides and porters. Asiana Treks & Tours offers well-organized trekking packages at competitive prices, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey.
The main expenses include special trekking permits required for Dolpo, Shey Phoksundo National Park entry fees, domestic flights, accommodation in teahouses or camping sites, food, and guide and porter services. Due to the remote nature of the trek, logistics and transportation costs are higher than in more popular trekking regions like Annapurna or Everest. On average, the trek can range between $2,500 to $3,500 per person, depending on the level of services included. Custom packages can also be arranged based on specific preferences and requirements.
Lower Dolpa Trekking Height
The Lower Dolpa Trek takes you to some of the highest trekking points in Nepal, reaching elevations above 5,000 meters. The journey starts in Kathmandu at 1,400m, followed by Nepalgunj at 150m, and Juphal at 2,502m. As you ascend, Dunai sits at 2,850m, Tarakot at 2,543m, and Laini at 3,160m. The altitude gradually increases as you reach Nawarpani (3,545m) and Dho Tarap (4,090m), one of the highest permanent settlements in Nepal.
The trek's highest points are Numa La Pass (5,190m) and Baga La Pass (5,070m), offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. After crossing these passes, the altitude decreases as you descend towards Dajok Tang (4,080m), Ringmo (3,600m), and the beautiful Phoksundo Lake at 3,611m. The final stages of the trek gradually descend towards Shyanta (2,520m) and Juphal (2,320m) before returning to lower altitudes in Nepalgunj and Kathmandu.
With significant altitude variations throughout the trek, proper acclimatization and a steady pace are essential to avoid altitude sickness and ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
Major Villages of Lower Dolpa Trekking
Lower Dolpa is home to some of the most remote and culturally rich villages in Nepal, offering an authentic experience of Himalayan life. The trek takes you through several significant villages, each with its own unique charm and history.
Dunai (2,850m) is the administrative center of Dolpa district and the first major settlement on the trek. It is a small yet bustling town with basic facilities, schools, and government offices. As you continue, Tarakot (2,543m) stands as an ancient fortress village that once served as a trading hub on the caravan route between Tibet and Nepal.
Further along, Dho Tarap (4,090m) is one of the highest permanent settlements in the world, inhabited by people of Tibetan descent who practice both Buddhism and the Bon religion. This village is a cultural gem, featuring traditional houses, centuries-old monasteries, and unique customs preserved for generations. Another significant village is Ringmo (3,600m), located near Phoksundo Lake. This picturesque village showcases traditional Dolpo architecture and is home to the Tshowa Monastery, which is over 900 years old.
These villages provide an incredible opportunity to interact with the locals, learn about their traditions, and witness a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.
Best Viewpoints in Lower Dolpa Trekking
The Lower Dolpa Trek offers some of the most breathtaking viewpoints, with stunning panoramic vistas of the Himalayas, deep valleys, and pristine landscapes.
One of the most spectacular viewpoints is at Numa La Pass (5,190m), the highest point of the trek. From here, trekkers can enjoy an awe-inspiring view of the Dhaulagiri range, including towering snow-capped peaks stretching into the horizon. Another remarkable vantage point is Baga La Pass (5,070m), which offers incredible views of the Kanjirowa Himal and the surrounding rugged terrain of Dolpo.
Phoksundo Lake (3,611m) is another must-see viewpoint. The mesmerizing turquoise waters of Nepal’s deepest lake, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and pine forests, create one of the most photogenic landscapes in the country. The viewpoint above Ringmo village provides a panoramic perspective of the lake and its cascading waterfalls.
The trail itself is filled with natural viewpoints, including ridges and high-altitude plateaus, where trekkers can pause to admire the vast, untouched beauty of the Dolpa region.
Biodiversity of Lower Dolpa Trekking
The Lower Dolpa region is rich in biodiversity, as it lies within the Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal’s largest trans-Himalayan national park. The park covers an area of 3,555 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, some of which are rare and endangered.
The region’s vegetation varies from lush subalpine forests of pine, juniper, and rhododendron at lower elevations to barren, windswept alpine meadows at higher altitudes. The higher regions are dominated by rugged landscapes, glaciers, and high-altitude desert-like terrain, resembling the Tibetan Plateau.
Wildlife enthusiasts have the chance to spot some of Nepal’s most elusive species, including the snow leopard, blue sheep (bharal), Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and the Tibetan wolf. The park is also home to over 200 species of birds, including the Himalayan griffon, golden eagle, and blood pheasant. The diverse ecosystem supports a delicate balance of life, making Lower Dolpa a paradise for nature lovers.
With its unique blend of cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and remarkable biodiversity, the Lower Dolpa Trek is an extraordinary journey into one of Nepal’s last hidden frontiers.
Festivals and Cultures in Lower Dolpa Trekking
Lower Dolpa is a culturally rich region deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and the ancient Bon religion. The people of Dolpa, primarily of Tibetan descent, have preserved their traditions, rituals, and way of life for centuries. During the trek, you will encounter monasteries, chortens, prayer flags, and spiritual practices that reflect the deep-rooted Buddhist beliefs of the local communities.
One of the most significant festivals in Dolpa is Saga Dawa, celebrated by Buddhists to commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Lord Buddha. This festival is marked by prayers, butter lamp offerings, and religious ceremonies at monasteries like the Tshowa Monastery near Phoksundo Lake. Another important festival is Shey Festival, which takes place every 12 years at the Shey Gompa Monastery in Upper Dolpa, attracting pilgrims from across Nepal and Tibet.
Local festivals such as Losar (Tibetan New Year) and Chaite Dashain are also widely celebrated with traditional dances, music, and feasts. The Dolpo people still practice an ancient trade culture, where they barter goods with Tibetan traders in seasonal markets. The unique customs, traditional attire, and deep spiritual connection of the locals make this trek a fascinating cultural experience.
Advantages of Booking with Asiana Treks & Tours
Booking your Lower Dolpa Trek with Asiana Treks & Tours comes with numerous benefits, ensuring a safe, well-organized, and unforgettable trekking experience.
- Expert Guides and Local Knowledge – Our professional trekking guides are experienced in navigating the remote trails of Dolpa, ensuring safety and providing deep cultural insights throughout the journey.
- Hassle-Free Permits & Logistics – The Lower Dolpa trek requires special restricted area permits, which we handle for you, along with all necessary trekking arrangements, flights, and accommodations.
- Customized Itineraries – We offer flexible trekking packages tailored to your preferences, whether you want a shorter or extended trek, cultural immersion, or additional side trips.
- Responsible and Sustainable Tourism – Asiana Treks & Tours is committed to eco-friendly travel, supporting local communities, hiring local guides and porters, and promoting responsible tourism in Dolpa.
- 24/7 Support & Safety Assurance – Our team provides continuous support before, during, and after the trek, ensuring your safety with proper acclimatization schedules, medical kits, and emergency evacuation plans if needed.
With our expertise, local connections, and dedication to quality service, we strive to provide an extraordinary trekking experience in the hidden paradise of Lower Dolpa.
Trek Booking
Booking your Lower Dolpa Trek with Asiana Treks & Tours is simple and convenient. You can contact us through our official website, email, or phone, and our team will assist you with all the details, including permits, flights, accommodation, and itinerary customization.
To secure your booking, a confirmation deposit is required, with the remaining balance payable before the trek starts. We provide detailed information on required gear, travel insurance, fitness preparation, and visa procedures to ensure you are fully prepared for the adventure.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a group, or looking for a private trek, we offer flexible booking options to match your needs. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Lower Dolpa—book your trek today with Asiana Treks & Tours and embark on the journey of a lifetime!
Transportation for Lower Dolpa Trekking
The journey to Lower Dolpa involves multiple modes of transportation, combining flights and trekking through remote Himalayan terrain. The adventure begins with a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a city in western Nepal near the Indian border. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and provides a glimpse of the diverse geography of Nepal, from the central hills to the flat Terai plains.
From Nepalgunj, another short but scenic flight of around 35 minutes takes you to Juphal (2,502m), the starting point of the trek. This flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan foothills and deep valleys. Since Juphal has a small airstrip, flights are subject to weather conditions, and delays can occur.
Once in Juphal, the only mode of transportation is walking. The trek follows rugged trails, crossing high mountain passes, deep valleys, and remote villages. There are no road networks in most parts of Dolpa, making trekking the only way to access this pristine region.
After completing the trek, you will fly back from Juphal to Nepalgunj and then take a connecting flight to Kathmandu, marking the end of your journey.
Lower Dolpa Trekking Start
The Lower Dolpa Trek officially begins in Juphal (2,502m), a small mountain village in Dolpa district. After arriving in Juphal by flight from Nepalgunj, trekkers start their journey with a short hike to Dunai (2,850m), the administrative center of Dolpa.
From Dunai, the trail gradually ascends through remote villages, deep river valleys, and high mountain passes, leading deeper into the heart of Dolpo. The trek follows ancient trade routes and paths used by locals for centuries. The journey takes you through Tarakot, Dho Tarap, Numa La Base Camp, Baga La Pass, and finally to Phoksundo Lake, one of the trek's highlights.
The trek concludes as you retrace your steps back to Juphal, from where you take the return flights to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu. The starting and ending points remain the same, ensuring a well-planned route through this rugged and beautiful Himalayan region.
Currency Exchange
Since Lower Dolpa is a remote region with limited financial services, it is essential to exchange currency in Kathmandu or Nepalgunj before starting the trek. The local villages do not have ATMs or banks, and cash is the only accepted form of payment in teahouses and local shops.
The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR), and it is recommended to carry small denominations for easy transactions. Currency exchange can be done at banks, exchange counters, and ATMs in Kathmandu, which offer competitive rates. US Dollars, Euros, and other major foreign currencies can be exchanged at these locations.
Trekkers should carry enough cash to cover expenses such as food, accommodation, extra snacks, and emergency needs during the trek. Credit cards and digital payments are not accepted in the remote Dolpa region, making cash the only reliable option.
Guide and Porter Arrangement
Hiring a licensed guide and porter is highly recommended for the Lower Dolpa Trek, as it is one of Nepal’s most challenging and remote trekking routes. Asiana Treks & Tours provides experienced and knowledgeable guides and porters to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
- Guides:Our professional guides are fluent in English and have in-depth knowledge of the Dolpo region, its culture, history, and trails. They assist with navigation, communication with locals, and ensure trekkers' safety, especially in high-altitude areas.
- Porters:Since Dolpa is a demanding trek with high-altitude passes, hiring a porter can ease the journey. A porter can carry up to 20-25 kg of luggage, allowing trekkers to walk freely with a lighter daypack.
All guides and porters are properly trained, insured, and equipped for high-altitude trekking. Asiana Treks & Tours follows ethical trekking practices, ensuring fair wages, proper gear, and responsible treatment of porters and staff.
Booking a guide and porter with us enhances your trekking experience, offering local insights, safety, and logistical support, making your Lower Dolpa adventure smooth and stress-free.
Porter, Luggage, and Extra Luggage Storage
Trekking in the Lower Dolpa region involves long hiking days over rugged terrain and high mountain passes, so hiring a porter can significantly ease the journey. A porter typically carries up to 20-25 kg of luggage, allowing trekkers to walk comfortably with only a small daypack containing essentials like water, snacks, a camera, and extra clothing.
It is advisable to pack only the necessary trekking gear and essentials, as carrying unnecessary items can be cumbersome. Trekkers should use a duffel bag or rucksack for easy transportation by porters. Our team at Asiana Treks & Tours provides well-equipped and insured porters, ensuring fair wages and ethical treatment.
For extra luggage that is not needed on the trek, we offer secure storage facilities in Kathmandu. You can leave your additional belongings at your hotel or with our team, ensuring they are safe and ready for pickup upon your return.
Accommodation
The Lower Dolpa Trek offers a mix of teahouse and camping accommodations, depending on the remoteness of the region. In villages like Dunai, Tarakot, and Dho Tarap, basic teahouses and lodges are available, providing simple yet comfortable stays. These teahouses typically offer basic rooms with twin-sharing beds, blankets, and limited facilities.
As the trek progresses into more remote areas, accommodation options become limited, and camping is required in certain sections such as Numa La Base Camp and Baga La Pass. Our team arranges high-quality tents, sleeping bags, and all necessary camping gear for a comfortable experience in the wilderness.
At Phoksundo Lake, there are a few teahouses near Ringmo village, offering a beautiful overnight stay with stunning lake views. Since accommodation in Dolpa is very basic compared to popular trekking routes like Everest or Annapurna, travelers should be prepared for simple facilities with no luxury amenities.
Meals During the Trip
The meals provided during the Lower Dolpa Trek mainly consist of traditional Nepali and Tibetan cuisine, with a limited variety due to the remoteness of the region. The main dish served in most teahouses is Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), which provides essential energy for trekking. Other food options may include:
- Tibetan bread, chapati, and pancakes for breakfast
- Noodles, pasta, momos (dumplings), and fried rice for lunch and dinner
- Seasonal vegetables, potatoes, and local dairy products
- Tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and local herbal drinks
As the region is remote, food prices are higher than in more accessible trekking routes due to transportation challenges. During camping sections, our team arranges freshly cooked meals with a dedicated kitchen team to provide hygienic and nutritious food. It is advisable to bring some energy bars, snacks, and instant foods for extra nutrition during the trek.
Drinking Water
Access to safe drinking water is essential during the Lower Dolpa Trek, as staying hydrated at high altitudes is crucial. Bottled water is available in some villages, but due to the remoteness, it is expensive and not environmentally friendly. Instead, trekkers are encouraged to use refillable bottles and water purification methods.
The best options for drinking water include:
- Boiled Water – Available at teahouses and campsites for a small fee.
- Water Purification Tablets/Drops – Easy to carry and effective for purifying tap or stream water.
- Water Filters/Steripen – Personal water filters or UV purifiers are great for ensuring safe drinking water from natural sources.
- Spring and Stream Water – Readily available throughout the trek but must be purified before consumption.
At Asiana Treks & Tours, we promote sustainable trekking and encourage trekkers to avoid plastic bottles and use purification methods to minimize environmental impact.
With careful preparation and the support of our experienced team, the Lower Dolpa Trek offers an incredible adventure into one of Nepal’s most remote and breathtaking regions!
Lower Dolpa Trekking is an isolated and challenging trek situated in the western part of Nepal. Trek to Lower Dolpa offers the most glorious views of the majestic Himalayan peaks, beautiful landscapes, ancient monasteries, and fortresses. Lower Dolpa due to its unique and unimaginable history and landscape is referred to as the Hidden Treasure of Nepal.
In fact, the Dolpa region had been a major business route to Tibet. Similarly, the convoy of Yak carrying traditional business products can be seen during summer. At the same time, the lower Dolpa trek is characterized as strenuous and adventurous since the trail crosses over three high Passes; Kangmara La (5115m), Numa La (5159m), and Baga La(5190m).
Lower Dolpa Trekking is full of beautiful forests of pine, rhododendron, juniper, and bamboo. Additionally, the trek also caters to the infusion of winsome villages, giant waterfalls, rivers, deep gorges, high meadows, wooden and air-swinging suspension bridges, and terraced colorful fields. Initially, the trek starts from semi-desert areas admiring the rain shadow landscape of the Himalayas. The trails pass through the rich protected area known as Shey Phoksundo National Park.
The National Park is filled with tranquil and pristine Phoksundo Lake, white sparkling waterfalls, and wildlife like jackals, musk deer, mountain goats, blue sheep, and snow leopards. The trek is fascinating and bewildering due to its ancient Tibetan pre-Buddhism religion “Bon Poâ€, adventurous high Passes, challenging trails, diverse nature, and she-Phoksundo Lake-The deepest Lake in Nepal. The lake is at an elevation of 3589 m with a depth of 145 m.
Surprisingly, all three passes offer flabbergasting views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m) and extended Tibetan peaks. The trekkers also visit the beautiful and colourful monasteries and Bon Po shrines surrounding Phoksundo Lake. Meanwhile, the trekkers get enchanted by the alluring and indescribable beauty of Phoksundo Lake which splits between 2000m tall mountain rocks. Similarly, camping around the turquoise Phoksundo Lake is one of the finest experiences of living in nature under clear blue skies, surrounded by enchanting views of mountains, untouched nature, and Bon Po shrines.