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Country: Nepal
Activities: Trekking and Adventure
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Lower Dolpo trek lies in the isolated and rural western region of Dolpo, nearly 300 kilometers northwest of Kathmandu. Despite its location in the "lower" region of Dolpo, this fascinating land is situated at a high altitude and has a dry atmosphere.
The remote southern region of Lower Dolpo is highlighted by vast river valleys, picturesque lakes, and scattered isolated villages. The region is covered with monasteries and is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Lower Dolpo trekking also covers ancient villages such as Do-Tarap, which are characterized by traditional Tibetan stone house clusters, local fields that are surrounded by stunning monasteries, and high passes such as Numa-La (5,290M) and Baga-La (5,175M), which contribute to the trek's thrilling elements.
One of the primary attractions of the Lower Dolpo trek is the exploration of Shey Phoksundo Lake, a turquoise lake that is both pristine and captivating.
Shey Phoksundo National Park is home to one of Nepal's most beautiful and deepest lakes, Shey Phoksundo Lake. Getting to the lake is a short and easy hike. On the difficult hike to the second deepest lake of Nepal, you can see beautiful scenery, meet rare animals, and learn about the traditional way of life of the Dolpo people.
Geological studies show that Shey Phoksundo Lake was formed more than 40,000 years ago when a huge glacial mountain fell. The rubble blocked the river, which let water build up in the area that is now a lake basin. One of Nepal's tallest waterfalls is made when water from melting glaciers flows over a mountain dam that has been crushed.
Around 4,94 square kilometers (about 3,611 meters) in size, it is high up at 11,849 feet. The lake is deep blue and turquoise because there isn't much life in it and the water is full of minerals.
There are rocky cliffs and snowy peaks all around the lake, giving it a beautiful Alpine setting. Twenty Buddhist monasteries are all around it as well.
This trek is physically demanding as it includes numerous ascents and descents. Therefore, this trek is classified as one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. It is highly recommended that you boost your cardio and stamina levels before departing for Nepal if you are not a skilled trekker with earlier treks under your belt.
The average day involves six hours of trekking, with the exception of acclimatization days and shorter days. Walking and sleeping at altitude can and do have an impact on individuals. Unfortunately, we don't know who it will affect because age and overall fitness appear to be unrelated to altitude illnesses. Nevertheless, it is considerably more demanding on the body when the trekker is not in good physical condition.
It is possible to reduce the risk of altitude-related illnesses by enhancing your physical activity prior to your arrival. This trek is not suitable for beginners; however, it will prove to be a rewarding adventure for trekkers who are physically fit and experienced, as well as for those who have previously visited Nepal.
For the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek you need the following permits.
The Government of Nepal and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has made it mandatory to hire a professional guide for Dolpo Trekking. We also strongly advise it to help to reduce the pressure on these difficult paths.
In order to control all other trek-related expenses on your own, Hidden Trek Nepal now provides a "guide only" service whereby you can hire a licensed guide and pay just for the guide's price.
This guide especially targets budget-conscious tourists looking for a real Himalayan adventure. It lets individuals manage their own means of transportation, food and lodging along the trail, thus welcoming different tastes and budgets.
Trekkers can start an unforgettable trip among some of the most breathtaking mountain landscapes with the freedom to personalize travel, food, and accommodation combined with an expert local path.
| Day | Route | Altitude (m / ft) | Duration | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fly to Nepalgunj | 150 m / 492 ft (approx.) | 1 hr flight | Arrival in the gateway to Far West Nepal, overnight stay |
| 2 | Fly to Juphal → Trek to Dunai | Juphal: 2,475 m / 8,120 ft Dunai: 2,140 m / 7,021 ft | 35 min flight 4–5 hrs trek | Scenic mountain flight + trek down to district HQ |
| 3 | Dunai to Chhepka | 2,838 m / 9,311 ft | 7–8 hrs trek | Walk along Suligad River, enter Shey Phoksundo National Park |
| 4 | Chhepka to Jharna Hotel | 3,110 m / 10,203 ft | 6–7 hrs trek | Ascend through lush forests and narrow trails |
| 5 | Jharna to Ringmo (Phoksundo) | 3,733 m / 12,247 ft | 4–5 hrs trek | Reach the turquoise Phoksundo Lake and Ringmo village |
| 6 | Explore Phoksundo Lake & Tshowa Gompa | 3,733 m / 12,247 ft | Half/Full day | Explore the sacred Bon monastery and beautiful lake surroundings |
| 7 | Phoksundo to Chhepka | 2,838 m / 9,311 ft | 7–8 hrs trek | Retrace steps via alpine paths and forests |
| 8 | Chhepka to Juphal | 2,475 m / 8,120 ft | 3–4 hrs trek | Final downhill trek back to Juphal |
| 9 | Fly Juphal to Nepalgunj → Kathmandu | Kathmandu: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft | 2 flights (35 min + 1 hr) | Scenic flights, return to the capital city |
Following breakfast, we begin18-day Lower Dolpo Trekking Journey by boarding a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj with the guide and other crew members.
After an hour-long, picturesque flight, you will reach Nepalgunj, the gateway to Simikot. Later in the day, you will have the opportunity to visit the vibrant market, mini zoo, and neighboring towns. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Today, you start our main Lower Dolpo Trekking. The flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal begins following a delicious breakfast in Nepalgunj. The 45 minutes flight will be brief and scenic. Upon reaching Juphal, you will begin your trekking toward Dunai.
Throughout the entirety of the route, you will be able to appreciate the breathtaking views of Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m) and Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m). You can access the Bheri River by trekking through terraced farms. The route continues through a small canyon and leads to Dunai, the administrative center of the Dolpo region. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
After a night of rest in Dunai, we will continue our walk through the market area and over the Thulo Bheri River bridge. This will lead you to a ridgetop climb with views of Kagmara mountain and the Phoksundo River valley.
From here, the path goes down through farmlands with fields full of walnut trees, along the Dhera stream, and past a small village of cattle herders. It then goes up for a short time to reach Rahagaon village, where the Hindu Thakuri tribe lives. Our overnight camp is in the small farming community of Chhepka, which is reached by a path that winds through trees as the hike goes down. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
The trek to Jharana Waterfall starts early in the morning. The trail ascends through a cedar jungle to a winter settlement that gets used by the residents of Ringmo village. The route then climbs gradually through the countryside to an elevation of 11,056 feet, where we will spend the night, Jharana.
A close-up view of the spectacular 1,083-foot Jharana Waterfall, one of the highest in Nepal, and one step closer to Phoksundo Lake will be the rewards of your efforts. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
You will walk through birch forests to get to Ringmo, which is around 3460 metre above sea level. From there, you will see the upper parts of the Phoksundo River. To get to the ranger station at Phoksundo Lake, cross a bridge and keep going north on the trail. After one last push through the gully of the Phoksundo River, you will come out onto the meadows full of yaks in Ringmo, a Tibetan Bon village. This is where you will spend the night. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Today, you'll explore the area surrounding the wonderful Phoksundo Lake. Before going to Tshowa Gompa, a 900-year-old Bon monastery on a hill above the lake, we will explore Ringmo village. We will make our way to the lake by descending the steep-sided cliffs.
Buddhists and Bonpo followers admire Phoksundo Lake, believing that it holds an underwater palace and a mystic mandala of spirits. The lake is known for its vibrant turquoise color and breathtaking scenery. You can find a lot of beautiful glaciers near and above the lake. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Today you will return to Chhepka. Follow the stream that flows from the lake to Sulighad. Before arriving at Chhepka at 8,268 feet, you will pass through Renje and the fir and larch jungles along the Sulighat River. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
We will follow the trail to Juphal after breakfast, passing through picturesque villages, fields, and forests along the way. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
You will depart from Juphal in the early hours of the morning and fly to Nepalgunj. From there, you will continue on to Kathmandu, where you will be taken to your hotel. In the afternoon, you are free to go sightseeing or relax at your hotel depending on your preference. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
During autumn, which lasts from September to November, is the best time to go trekking in Lower Dolpo. There is a chance of snow at elevations above 3,000 m.
Spring, from March to May, is also an excellent time for trek, though it may be less crowded than autumn. People who are interested can also go during the monsoon season, which runs from June to August. The days are longer and there is enough sunlight, but it gets much colder at higher elevations, and it may even snow sometimes.
Dolpo region is situated within a rain shadow, where the high Himalayan range prevents the passage of black, heavy monsoon clouds. This is why most places are dry and empty, with little rain and water, like the landscapes in Tibet.
What is very important is a willingness to prepare both physically and mentally, as well as to respect the demands of the trail. If you are not a skilled hiker with current treks under your belt, simply increase your stamina and cardio levels prior to your departure for Nepal.
The primary requirement for trekkers to truly appreciate the journey is proper acclimatization. Make certain that you have the necessary equipment, such as a boot that is rated for -25°C. We, Hidden Trek Nepal, manage poles and a sleeping bag.
Before starting the trek, it is crucial to enhance your workout routine, maintain proper hydration, avoid excessive physical activity, and be mindful of your body. These factors will ensure that your trek is an unforgettable one. You should rest, rely on your guide, and let them know right away if you feel sick.
Camping and basic tea houses are the primary accommodations available during the Lower Dolpo Trek. In the higher parts of the trek, you can expect simple tea houses as places to stay.
In rural areas, the tea houses are very simple but cozy places to stay. In cities, there are more housing options, and on the more urbanized side of Lower Dolpo, you can find quiet guest houses.
The Lower Dolpo Trail is one of the most remote trails of Nepal. Therefore, don't expect a menu that includes Western cuisine. Trekkers can eat simple local foods while they're on the trail. Tea houses provide simple yet satisfying meals; however, the menu is frequently repeated. A menu is not available at the majority of locations.
General Breakfast Items:
General Lunch and Dinner Items:
The transportation we mostly use is domestic flights.
Juphal is the starting and ending point for this trek.
Mobile network coverage usually is available on the Lower Dolpo trip, with NTC (Nepal Telecom) serving as the primary provider. Nevertheless, internet access may be limited or not present in certain remote villages or at higher altitudes.
To organize and schedule a Lower Dolpo Trek, it is best to hire the services of a well-known trekking company in Nepal, such as Hidden Trek Nepal.
We are concerned about your safety whenever you book a local company like ours, and we are here to help. Throughout every step of your trip, you will constantly have someone with years of experience to provide you with the best recommendations.
By making the reservations as early as possible, particularly during the peak trekking seasons, you may assure that you will be able to secure your desired accommodation without encountering any difficulties. Given that the majority of the most desirable places to stay in the region are often reserved well in advance, it is always a good idea to begin your planning process as early as possible.
Kathmandu has many great hotels, and we recommend staying in Thamel, the city’s vibrant tourist hub. It's packed with bars, cafes, restaurants, and shops. Thamel is also the perfect place to rent or buy trekking gear.
For shopping, there are plenty of nearby places to explore. Plus, our office is conveniently located in the heart of Thamel.
If you need assistance with hotel booking, Hidden Trek Nepal is here to help.
It is possible to obtain a visa on arrival for individuals from the majority of countries by visiting the online website of the Immigration Department of Nepal. Online forms must be filled out, printed, and brought with you.
The online system can be accessed at https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/ from any location and at any time. The Online Application System can keep your application for 15 days in its system, allowing you to apply at your convenience and present it to the Immigration Authority at the time of admission or visa extension.
Visas on arrival are valid for 15, 30, or 3 months and are priced at:
We recommend hiking before the Kanchenjunga circuit trek, helping your body adjust to higher elevations. Test your gear and break in your hiking boots on these short walks to find and correct any problems while still near city shops and resources.
Some suggestions for hiking places near Kathmandu are: Champa Devi Hiking, Jamacho (Nagarjun Hill) Hiking, Sundarijal Hiking, Chandragiri Hiking, etc.
You can also visit some very popular cultural locations carrying significant histories while in Kathmandu before the trek: Boudhanath (Boudha), the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and three Durbar Squares (Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur).
After the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, relaxing and enjoying Nepal's splendor is worth it. After the lengthy trek, Nepal is also a great place to relax with views, and cozy cafés. We recommend:
Hidden Trek Nepal is known for having skilled porters and making each tour unique. They know both the history and geography of the area well enough to make sure you have a safe and useful trip.
Our goal is to give you an experience that immerses you in the awe of the great Nepalese wilderness, whether that means customizing your schedule or making changes to the trail in real time or helping you through the tough parts of the trip.
We also provide flexible solutions, such as a "guide only" service for independent trekkers who would rather handle their own logistics with expert advice. With Hidden Trek Nepal, you interact with people, environment, and the desire of adventure at every turn rather than simply travel.
