Lower Dolpo Trek

The Lower Dolpo Trek offers a chance to join Nepal Trekking Experts on a trek through the remote and rugged landscapes of western Nepal. This particular adventure offers an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends stunning scenery with timeless culture. 

Your journey starts in the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, where you will be warmly welcomed at the International Airport and soon transferred to a hotel. From the bustling streets of the city, you will soon experience a striking contrast in your surroundings with a short, scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. 

However, the real trekking starts only the next day after an early morning flight to Juphal, which will be the starting point of your trek. Initially, the trekking route will follow the banks of the Thuli Bheri River, leading you through lush vegetation and past charming villages. During this point of the trek, you will walk through dense pine forests and terraced fields, offering stunning views of the traditional settlements. For the most part of the trek through the villages, you will see the trails filled with mani walls, prayer flags, and numerous chortens.

Here, the Dolpo region is linked to Tibetan culture and is well-preserved against the encroachment of the outside world. Hence, the local beliefs and practices showcase the purest form of Buddhism, adding a spiritual touch to your journey. A fun fact; this region is one of the few remaining places where the Bon Po religion is practiced. Furthermore, the whole region is said to have been blessed by Guru Rinpoche during the 8th century and has long been a refuge for devout Buddhists in troubled times.

As you continue your trek, the trail starts to get challenging from Laina Odar, as you will face a steady climb through dense jungle and across picturesque suspension bridges. Additionally, the landscape will start to get dramatic with rugged trails and arid terrain. These semi-arid landscapes occur as the Dolpo region lies in the rain shadow of the towering mass of Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters). 

In fact, you will notice the sudden change in your surroundings in a few days’ intervals as the trekking route shifts from dense forest to barren, high-altitude landscapes. From Tarap Khola, you will also have the opportunity to witness alpine wildlife, and as you reach Nawarpani, it will mark the gateway to the high-altitude trek. 

Soon, your trekking journey will be surrounded by the breathtaking Himalayan views. The trek to Dho Tarap will be a challenging yet rewarding journey. As you reach this village, you will get a rare glimpse into a lifestyle and Tibetan culture that has been left untouched for centuries. 

From this point onward, your trekking journey will feel like a blend of spiritual and natural vacation for relaxation. Therefore, you will take a rest day to acclimatize and explore this unique village. The serene environment, panoramic views of the snow-clad peaks, and rich historical and cultural touches make this journey a worthwhile trek. 

Moving on from Dho Tarap, you will make your way towards Numala Base Camp, followed by the challenging Numa La Pass. Standing at an altitude of 5,309 meters, this pass is one of the highlight points of the trek offering you the views that will last you lifelong. This point will provide you with the dramatic scenery of Mount Dhaulagiri and other surrounding peaks. 

Here, Numa La Pass is the crossing point before you descend to the village of Danigar through terraced fields and yak pastures. Again, the other day starts a high-altitude section, the Bagala Pass (at an elevation of 5,169 meters). Additionally, this point portrays a striking difference in the landscape as your initial trek will comprise a traditional yak trail and a deep gorge while the latter section is composed of lush forest trails. 

This refreshing change of scenery will soon lead you to a major highlighting point of the trek, Shey Phoksundo Lake. At an altitude of 3,600 meters, this lake has a picturesque setting as the turquoise water of the Phoksundo Lake sits amidst the breathtaking mountain scenery. Alongside the natural aura of the point, you will also get a score of cultural side with a side trip to the Bon monastery of Tshowa.

Now, it is time to bid goodbye to the beautiful Phoksundo Lake and descend down following the lush greenery and tranquil streams. During this final stretch of the trek, you will yet again feel the change in your surroundings as you go from a high-altitude landscape to a temperate environment.

Altogether, your return to Kathmandu will mark the end of your trek. Having said that, the changing landscapes, serene beauty, and rich culture of the region will stay with you even after the journey has long ended. During this trek, as most part of the region takes place within the Shey Phoksundo National Park, you may get lucky enough to witness wildlife such as the elusive snow leopard, rare Himalayan blue sheep, goral, thar, Himalayan black bear, langur, and rhesus monkeys, among others. 

After a 16-day long journey to the Lower Dolpo region, we will part ways with a farewell party after reaching Kathmandu. On the 17th day of the journey, we will drop you off at the airport, marking the end of the journey and leaving the doorway open for the next adventure! 

If the Dolpo region has captured your heart and feel it could be explored more, we have yet another trip waiting for you. Embark on the Upper Dolpo Trek and explore more of this region. So, until next time!

Moreover, you may also choose Manaslu Circuit Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, Nar Phu Valley Trek, and many more graceful packages.