The isolated region of Lower Dolpo is situated within the Shey Phoksundo National Park in the western region of Nepal, nestled between the Tibet plateau and the Dhaulagiri range. This area boasts untouched natural and cultural wonders, offering a chance to explore Nepal’s most diverse area. Lower Dolpo Trek is an exceptional trekking experience. This trek introduces you to a Buddhist culture, breathtaking Phoksundo Lake, the remote Himalayan landscapes, ancient monasteries, and unspoiled nature. Because this region is categorized in restricted trekking area, it lets trekkers immerse themselves in genuine off-the-beaten-path trekking adventures.
Moreover, this 16 days Lower Dolpo Trek begins with a picturesque flight from Kathmandu to Nepalganj and Jhupal. The trek takes you through a semi-desert terrain, densely forested paths adorned with pine, rhododendron, bamboo, and juniper trees. You’ll traverse vast meadows, brown landscapes, and colorful terraced fields. Appreciating the stunning rain shadow landscape of the Himalayas, you’ll enter the exquisite Shey Phoksundo National Park. The highest point of the trek is the Numa La Pass (5,309m). Dolpa Experience Circuit follows a route through Dunai, Tarkot, Dho Tarap, and finally reaches the Numa La Pass and Baga La (5,169m) Pass. Then we descend towards Ringo Village and to the pristine blue waters of Shey-Phoksundo Lake, surrounded by lush green valleys and pine forests.
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Later in the evening, we will have a pre-departure meeting regarding the details of your trip.
In the morning, we will pick you from your hotel and then drive to the airport for our scenic flight to Nepalgunj in Western Nepal. 45 – 50 minutes flight will bring us close to Nepal India border.
Taking a scenic 35-minute flight from Nepalgunj, you’ll soar over picturesque valleys and landscapes until you reach Juphal. Embarking on the first day of our trek from Juphal, your path winds through charming local villages and terraced fields, leading you to the banks of the Bheri River. The trail then follows alongside the river, passing by water-driven mills, ultimately bringing you to the town of Dunai. This town serves as the administrative headquarters of the Dolpo region.
Following breakfast, we commence our trek towards Tarakot. The route weaves alongside the Bheri and Barbung rivers, navigating through deep gorges, traversing bridges, encountering Mani Stones, remote villages, terraced fields, and a pine forest. This course leads us to a fortified settlement known as Tarakot. Tarakot’s population is primarily composed of the Magar ethnic group, who adhere to the practices of Tibetan Buddhism.
Today our trail climbs steadily along the Bheri River, Bharbung Khola and Tarap Khola. En route we cross several suspension bridges, pass picturesque villages like Laisicap and Khanigaon, stunning views of snowcapped mountains such as Putha Hiunchuli and Churen Himal Range.
The lush forest from the previous day transitions into desolate terrains as we gradually climb along the Tarap River gorge. The day ends with a striking experience of crossing a suspension bridge suspended high over the Chaya Khola, after which we continue along the riverside path to reach Nawarpani. Throughout this journey, we’re treated to captivating mountain vistas of the Chhyugar (3,440m) and Toltol (3,530m).
We navigate through the narrow gorges as we ascend along the trail. The landscape has undergone a profound transformation, becoming remarkably arid, with trees being replaced by diminutive shrubs. The path is adorned with numerous chortens and stupas as we approach Dho Tarap. Perched at a lofty altitude, Dho Tarap holds the distinction of being the highest village in Dolpo. Its inhabitants consist mainly of Magars, who have coexisted with a small Tibetan community here for many generations. Among the notable landmarks of this village are the Ribo Bumpa Monastery and the Drakmar Monastery.
Today we take a rest day to acclimatize our bodies to the higher altitudes. We’ll take the opportunity to visit the ancient Ribo Bumpa Monastery, which has stood for over a millennium. Additionally, you have the choice to explore the Drakmar Monastery, majestically perched atop red cliffs, forming a captivating visual spectacle. Exploring these monastic sites in the vicinity offers us a chance to delve into the local culture, traditions, and way of life. It’s worth noting that the majority of the people in this area practice the Bon-Po and Nyigmapa religions.
Today’s trek is relatively short in terms of walking distance. Departing from Dho Tarap village, we follow the course of the Tarap Chu River while ascending gradually. En route, we pass through various traditional villages and monasteries. The path takes us on a steep ascent along a rugged trail, eventually leading us to the Numa La base camp.
Today we will reach to the highest point of our trek at Numa La (5,310m), which presents a somewhat challenging endeavor. We set out early in the morning to benefit from favorable weather conditions for crossing the pass. Our ascent is gradual but demanding, navigating steep and rugged trails along ridges that lead us to the summit of Numa La. Upon arrival at the top, our efforts are rewarded with an exceptional panorama featuring Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), the Churen Himal Range, and Norbung Kang (6085m), creating a breathtaking tableau. The vistas also encompass the striking barren landscapes of the Trans-Himalayan region of Dolpo. After taking some time to admire the scenery, we commence our descent alongside the Gyambo Khola, proceeding through terraced fields and Yak Pastures, eventually reaching the enchanting meadow of Danigar.
Today we will cross another pass Baga La at 5,170m. We embark on a steep climb along a worn yak trail that runs along a ridge and later transitions to a rocky moraine terrain, leading us to the summit of Baga La. As we ascend to higher altitudes, the rapid gain in elevation can result in quicker fatigue. At the top, we can see sacred Chortens and are greeted by a magnificent vista showcasing Norbung Kang peak standing at 6085 meters, accompanied by other majestic peaks. The view also encompasses the enchanting Phoksundo Lake and stunning panoramas of the Trans-Himalayan region. After relishing the views, we embark on a gradual descent through a deep gorge that guides us through alpine stretches of the path, eventually leading to a milder climate characterized by pine forests. Our final destination for today is Timche.
Today’s hike is relatively easy. We begin by descending from Timche to Yak Kharka. Following this descent, we undertake an ascent towards Ringmo village. En route, we traverse a forested trail adorned with abundant greenery, including oak, pine, juniper, and cypress trees. As we journey, we are treated to the awe-inspiring sight of towering cliffs and a grand waterfall. Our path leads us to Ringmo village, a renowned Bon settlement situated in the Dolpo region.
Today is the highlight of the trek as we delve into the enchantment of Ringmo village and Phoksundo Lake. Our exploration commences with a thorough exploration of Ringmo Village, a typical Tibetan settlement. We then visit the ancient Bon monastery of Tshowa, perched atop a ridge overlooking Phoksundo Lake. Built approximately nine centuries ago, this Gompa carries a medieval legacy. We then descend along steep cliffs to reach the captivating Phoksundo Lake. Turquoise colored Phoksundao Lake is the deepest lake of Nepal.
Leaving Ringmogaun behind, we begin our trek with a gentle walk along the Phoksundo Khola. Then we climb steeply to the top of the hill from where we can get final glimpse of the exquisite Phoksundo Lake. Descending from this vantage point, we progress towards Chunuwar. Our route continues through pine and birch forest, with gradual ascents and descents until we ultimately reach our destination, Chhepka.
Today is our final day of walking. We embark on a gentle climb that guides us through serene birch forests, leading us to the settlements of Shyanta, Kageni, and Sulighat. Crossing the Dhim Khola, our path continues its gradual ascent as we traverse fields cultivated with barley and wheat. Along the way, we pass by walnut, peach, and apricot trees, adding to the vibrant landscape. Eventually, this ascent brings us to the village of Juphal.
Our journey through the captivating Dolpo region comes to a close as we say our farewells. We take a flight back to Nepalgunj, and from there, another flight transports us back to the bustling city of Kathmandu. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we will ensure you are safely transferred to your respective hotels, where you can settle in and relax after our exhilarating trekking expedition.
