Low Dolpo Trekking offers an extraordinary experience in the remote western region of Nepal, making it accessible even during heavy rain due to its position in the rain shadow area, nestled between the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges. The journey begins at the STOL airstrip in Juphal, which can be reached by a short flight from the charming town of Nepalgunj, conveniently linked to Kathmandu by both road and air.
The Dolpo region presents a unique trekking experience. The local inhabitants maintain a traditional lifestyle, characterized by their warmth and hospitality. Furthermore, this area is one of the few places where the pre-Buddhist Bon Po religion continues to be practiced. The trek involves traversing three high passes: Kagmara La (5115m), Baga La (5090m), and Numa La (5360m), while also passing by the stunningly deep blue Phoksundo Lake. The trek concludes back at Juphal, following the scenic route along the Tarap Khola gorge.
Trip Info
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Hotel/Lodge
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Spring/Autumn
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5190m
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Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
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Local Bus/Jeep
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6-7 hours
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Some places
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18 days
Itinerary
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight at a hotel
Meals, Welcome diner
Transport, private vehicle
After breakfast at the hotel, our guide will meet you in the lobby of the hotel to take you on a sightseeing tour to the following places:
Bhaktapur, the medieval capital, was embellished with exquisite structures.
Pashupatinath, a Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated on the banks of the Bagmati River.
Boudhath is a Buddhist pilgrimage center. You can then return to the hotel for trekking preparation.
Overnight at a hotel
Meals, breakfast
Transport, private vehicle
A one-hour flight takes us to Nepalganj in western Nepal. This border town with India benefits from the influence of Hindu and Muslim cultures that coexist in harmony. If you have free time, do not hesitate to visit the mini zoo and the Muslim bazaar.
Overnight at a hotel
Meals, breakfast
Transport, private vehicle
It takes 45 minutes to reach Juphal, with a beautiful view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. From Juphal, we follow the Bheri River through terraces and continue to Dunai, the administrative centre of the Dolpo region.
Overnight at guest house
Meals, breakfast, lunch and diner
We go up the Bheri River while admiring the variety of landscapes: deep gorges, suspension bridges and isolated villages. At Tarakot, an ancient fortress located on a hill, caravans once had to pay a toll to be able to continue their journey.
Overnight at guest house
Meals, breakfast, lunch and diner
At the confluence of the Bharbung Khola and the Tarap Khola – which become the Bheri Khola at this point – lies the famous Chhedhul Gompa monastery. Continuing through terraces and villages, we finally arrive at Lahini.
Overnight at guest house
Meals, breakfast, lunch and diner
After breakfast, we proceed to climb a steep uphill and then walk above the Tarap River. The hilly gorge at this location is breathtaking, as we traverse numerous gorges. The trail may be slippery, however, due to the picturesque surroundings, we do not experience any sense of excitement. After several climbs and descents, we trek down to the Chyugar stream and gradually walk to Nawarpani.
Overnight at guest house
Meals, breakfast, lunch and diner
After breakfast, we will ascend to Kamattarka, which lies between Tarap Chu and Lang Khola. As we cross the gorge, we continue through juniper and rhododendron forests. Presently, the arid region is increasingly situated within the inner Dolpo valley. Dho Tarap is a town with a stone wall that belongs to the Bon Po and Chhaiba communities. The area is mainly inhabited by Tibetan and Magar peoples. Dho Tarap is famous for his collection of yarsagumba. There are two Buddhist monasteries, Nigmapa and Bon Po.
Overnight at guest house
Meals, breakfast, lunch and diner
On the day you rest and get used to the weather in Dho Tarap, you can visit the nearby monastery. It is important to rest as we climb to alpine altitude. You can see how people live in the area. The clothes are very unique. Tibetans have similar ways of dressing, eating, and praying.
Overnight at guest house
Meals, breakfast, lunch and diner
Our journey will take us from Dho Tarap as we make our way down to the upper section of the Tarap valley. The sight of lush, grassy meadows is truly exhilarating, a landscape that is characteristic of this region in Dolpo. Following the course of the Tarap Chu River, we will arrive at Tokyu Gaon, where the natural beauty continues to captivate.
Overnight at tent
Meals, breakfast, lunch and diner
Today presents one of the most challenging segments of our trek as we Today is a challenging day as we ascend the Numa La pass at 5,190 meters. After breakfast, we’ll gradually climb to the summit for breathtaking views, including Mt. Dhaulagiri at 8,167 meters. From here, we’ll see the stark beauty of Dolpo, with cultivated areas among the barren hills. After enjoying the sights, we’ll descend steeply to Pelung Tang.
Overnight at tent
Meals, breakfast, lunch and diner
We start our day with breakfast before embarking on our early morning trek. A highlight is the ascent to Baga La Pass at 5070 meters, offering stunning views of Mt. Kanjirowa and the landscape. We then descend to Dajok Tang for a well-deserved break.
Overnight at tent
Meals, breakfast, lunch and diner
Our journey starts in Dajok Tang, taking us through well-maintained paths in pine forests and meadows to Ringmo, a village rich in Tibetan culture.
Overnight at tent
Meals, breakfast, lunch and diner
Today, we head to Phoksundo Lake, famed for its stunning beauty and the highlight of the Dolpo region. The serene ambiance promises a memorable experience of tranquility and reflection, perfect for meditation. We’ll conclude the day with dinner in this peaceful setting.
Overnight at tent
Meals, breakfast, lunch and diner
We descend to Chhepka along a rugged trail, captivated by stunning rock formations and rich medicinal plants. As we navigate the landscape, we pass scattered villages with white-washed houses and fluttering flags bidding us farewell, gradually making our way upward toward Shyanta.
Overnight at tent
Meals, breakfast, lunch and diner
Upon reaching Jhupal, we have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the market town or take some time to unwind in the afternoon. The lively surroundings offer a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, catering to various interests.
Overnight at a hotel
Meals, breakfast, lunch and diner
We will take 2 flights the same day. We will fly from Juphal to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj (40+50 minutes). Transfer to hotel in Kathmandu.
Overnight at the hotel
Meals, breakfast and lunch
Transfer to the airport at least three hours before your flight time. Our representative shall be accompanying you to the Kathmandu airport for your final departure.
Meals, Breakfast
Transport, private vehicle