The Lower Dolpo Trek in Nepal is a popular restricted area trek that offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. The trek involves challenging passes such as Numa La (4,420m) and Baga La (4,080m) and takes trekkers through ancient villages like Tarakot, Dho Tarap, and Ringmo, where they can experience the customs, rituals, festivals, and lifestyles of diverse ethnic groups. The final destination is Shey Phoksundo Lake, renowned for its clear blue water.

The Shey Phoksundo National Park protects some areas of the Lower Dolpo region and is home to a variety of flora and fauna such as blue pine, spruce, cypress, snow leopards, blue sheep, Himalayan black bears, and rhesus monkeys. Despite being one of the most remote areas of Nepal, the Lower Dolpo trek rewards trekkers with mesmerizing natural and cultural beauty. A special trekking permit is necessary, which we, as a government-registered trekking agency, can arrange.

Embark on a memorable adventure starting from Juphal airport, where you'll traverse through stunning alpine forests, desolate terrains, and charming villages. Along the way, immerse yourself in the fascinating culture of the locals and visit ancient monasteries. This trek is quite demanding and demands a decent level of fitness, but the spectacular scenery and cultural experiences make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Attractions of Lower Dolpo Trek

• Nature at its finest
• Spectacular scenic beauty such as beautiful landscapes, snow-capped peaks, stunning waterfalls, and deep gorges
• Unique Culture and Tradition practice unique rituals
• Rich in biodiversity
• The diverse range of wildlife (Snow leopard, Blue sheep, Himalayan black bear, and Musk deer)
• Mesmerizing and Deepest Shey Phoksundo Lake
• Unique Accommodation (mostly tented camps)
• Unique hospitality of the locals

Activities at Lower Dolpo Trek 

• Sightseeing the natural beauty of the surroundings
• Bird watching in the vicinity of Shey Phoksundo National Park
• Boating on Shey Phoksundo Lake
• Photography
• Cultural Immersion through local interactions
• Visit ancient monasteries
• Camping

Suggested Itinerary

Day 01: Pick up from the airport and drop by the hotel

Day 02: Sightseeing around Kathmandu and pre-trip meeting

Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj

Day 04: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal, then trek to Dunai (2140 meters)

Day 05: Dunai to Tarakot, (2537m)

Day 06: Tarakot to Laina Odar, (3370m)

Day 07: Laina Odar to Ghyamgar (3756m)

Day 08: Ghyamgar to Dho Tarap, (3944m)

Day 09: Exploration day

Day 10: Dho tarap to Numala Base Camp (4420m)

Day 11: Numa La Base camp to Bagala Base Camp, (4115m)

Day 12: Bagala base Camp to yak kharka, (3982m)

Day 13: Yak kharka to Ringmogaun Phoksundo, (3733m)

Day 14: Ringmogaun to Chepka, (2838m)

Day 15: Chhepka to Sulighat, (2282m)

Day 16: Sulighat to Juphal (2475m)

Day 17: Juphal to Nepalgunj then fly to Kathmandu

Day 18: Your program

Day 19: Transfer to the airport for your onward destination

FAQs on Lower Dolpo Trek

How long does it take to reach Lower Dolpo from Kathmandu?

It takes two days to reach the starting point of Lower Dolpo Trek via flight. If you travel via roadways it will take longer which will extend your trek duration.

How much is Lower Dolpo Trek Permit?

We require two types of permits for Lower Dolpo Trek. It is as follows:

Lower Dolpo permit fee: USD 20 per person/week
Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit fee: NPR 3000

How high is Lower Dolpo Trek?

Numa La Base Camp which is at an elevation of 4420 m is the highest point during this Lower Dolpo Trek.

How difficult is Lower Dolpo Trek?

The lower Dolpo trek duration is longer compared to other region treks in Nepal. Also, there are many ascends and descends and trails are not well-developed. The high elevations and very less facilities are some factors in determining the difficulty of this trek.

How long does it take to complete the Lower Dolpo Trek?

It takes 15 days to complete the Lower Dolpo Trek if you start from and end the trek in Kathmandu.

Can I get altitude sickness during Lower Dolpo Trek?

Altitude sickness is common during trekking in Nepal. You may or may not get altitude sickness during the Lower Dolpo Trek.

Is it possible to trek Lower Dolpo during the winter season?

No, it is not possible to trek during the winter season as the Dolpo region remains closed due to very cold temperatures and snowfall.

Is Lower Dolpo a restricted region?

Yes, Lower Dolpo is a restricted region.

Can I do the Lower Dolpo trek in the rainy season?

Yes, you can trek Lower Dolpo in the season. This region is a rain-shadow area and receives less than 50 mm of rainfall.

Do I require a guide to trek to the Lower Dolpo region?

Since Dolpo is a restricted region, a guide to mandatory to trek to the Lower Dolpo region. The guide ensures your safety.