Lower Dolpo Trek | Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative from Bold Himalayan will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel. Overnight at Kathmandu Hotel

Today, after breakfast, we start our city tour. We will be visiting some of the World Heritage Sites including Historic Durbar Square, one of the largest stupas in the world, Boudhanath (Buddhist shrine), the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath) as well as the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath. In the evening you will be briefed about your trek to Lower Dolpo. Overnight at the hotel

After breakfast, we fly to Nepalgunj, enjoying scenic views throughout the flight. After about an hour’s flight from Kathmandu, we arrive in Nepalgunj. Nepalgunj is an interesting Terai town of Nepal, situated nearby Nepal-India border. It is influenced by both the Nepal hills and plains well as local Hindu &Muslim cultures. Overnight at the hotel

From Nepalgunj, we take another morning flight to Juphal. Flying over the Himalayan foothills, with a view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks to the north, we arrive at Juphal after about 45 minutes. On arriving at Juphal, we meet our trekking staff and begin our trek. From Juphal, about 3 hours’ continuous trek through the terraced fields to the Bheri River and the narrow gorge we reach Dunai, the administrative headquarters of the Dolpo region. Overnight at Dunai

Note: Kick off your trek by walking at a relaxed pace to help your body adjust to the altitude. Make sure all your trekking equipment and essentials are easy to reach for your first day on the trail. As you make your way along the Bheri River, take a moment to soak in the peaceful and natural beauty of the Dolpo landscape.

From Dunai (9,348 ft), our trek continues along the southern bank of the Bheri River. Trails pass through several deep gorges, hanging bridges and isolated villages, including a tremendous gorge with pine trees and a path built seven meters above the river. Finally, we will be greeted by the colorful terraced field of Tarakot ( 8,341 ft), after walking for a while. Tarakot, a small village that stands on a hillock to the south of the Bheri River. Overnight at Tarakot lodge.

Note: Although the trail has some lovely panoramas, it can be a little difficult, so go at a slow pace. Don’t forget to stop and take pictures at the views or hanging bridges. Remember to drink plenty of water and prepare for those slow elevation changes!

Today, we continue our walking to follow the Tarap chu river upstream, crossing some suspension bridges and the same river again. On the way, we see a famous Gompa named Sandul Gompa, a little further on, at a junction where the Barbung River and Tarap Chu River meet. Further walking on a trail brings us through farm terraces and rural villages. Then, after ascending and descending for a while, we reach Laini. Overnight at Laini.

After breakfast, we climb on a steep trail and walk along a switchback above the Tarap River. Today, walking will be a quite different experience as the valley become a narrow gorge that in some places you can jump from one side to another. Then we reach the bank of the Chyugur Khola with several vigorous climbs and descents. Further walking leads to Nawarpani. Overnight at Nawarpani

Our trek begins with a gradual ascent towards Kamattarka at the terminal of the Tarap Chu and Lang Khola. Crossing a narrow gorge and leaving the tree line behind us, the path leads for juniper bush and wild rose, typical of dry inner Himalayan valleys. Further several hours walking to reach the village of Dho Tarap. Dho Tarap, a wonderful village surrounded by stone walls that are inhabited by a few Tibetans and mostly Magars. Overnight in Lodge

Note: Remember to pace yourself and have that water bottle close at hand because today’s hike takes you to some amazing heights. Don’t forget to stop by Dho Tarap and take in the historic architecture and local culture. Be prepared for cooler temperatures when you ascend beyond 4,000 meters!

We’re taking a much-needed break today in Dho Tarap to adjust to the high altitude and experience the rich Dolpo culture. Trekkers can talk to the local monks to learn about their spiritual practices and observe both Bon Po and Nyingmapa Buddhist rituals in action at the historic Dho Monastery. Explore the small villages with stone walls, take in the ancient architecture, and get a taste of the everyday life of the Magar populations, who are influenced by Tibetan culture. The alpine flora, which includes juniper and wild roses, is a treat for nature lovers. You may also see some of the local fauna, such as snow pigeons and Himalayan marmots. This rest day is both relaxing and culturally enriching, with optional brief treks around the small town that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, valleys, and terraced fields for those who are up for it. In Dho Tarap, we’ll stay the night at a comfortable lodge.

After spending a wonderful day at Dho Tarap (13,415 ft), we continue walking, enjoying views of lush grassland on both sides of the river to the upper Tarap valley. Walking alongside the Tarap Chu River, we take pleasure in the amazing views of the vast Tarap valley with its wide plains and high mountains. We will be in Tokyo village after several hours of walking, where we can see a monastery of the Chiba group. Finally, with the little difficult, rugged trail to Numa La Base Camp(14,563 ft). Overnight at Numa La Base Camp

After an early morning breakfast, we start crossing the Numa La Pass on the steep trail up to the top ridge of the pass. It is going to be the longest days of our trek, so feel it a little difficult. On reaching the top, we get an unbelievable view of the arid mountains of Dolpo up to Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m). After spending some time enjoying the view, we descend to camp at Pelung Tang. Overnight camp at Pelung Tang

Notes: You’ll need to be in good physical condition and have plenty of stamina because today is going to be a long and difficult one. Be careful to drink enough water, maintain a steady pace, and take pauses as necessary. For that high-altitude hike, remember to bring trekking poles and warm clothing!

Today, we are crossing another pass. After breakfast, we begin our trek with a steep climb to the top of Baga La pass. From Baga La Pass, we have a fantastic view of the dry landscape and the distant snow-capped mountain, including Mt. Kanjiroba. After a wonderful moment at the pass, we descend to Dajok Tang. Overnight camp at Dajok Tang

Note: This is the Lower Dolpo Circuit’s second notable section. Even though it’s not as high as Numa La, it still poses its own set of requirements and difficulties. Packing warm clothes, gloves, and windproof layers is advised because the weather up at those high passes can be very variable. To assist you in avoiding altitude fatigue, take your time climbing.

From Dajok Tang, passing through the forested path full of lush vegetation of oaks, pines, junipers, and cypress. Then, after trekking an easy trail for a while and gradual highs and lows, we reach Ringmo village. Ringmo, a famous Bon settlement in the Dolpo region. Overnight at Ringmo. 

Highlights: Gateway to the iconic Shey Phoksundo Lake

Today, we will be spending another day at Ringmo, exploring Ringmo village and Phoksundo Lake. We can also visit the nearby monastery. Phoksundo Lake is a beautiful, turquoise color lake, where we can enjoy a relaxing walk on the serene lake’s shores with great views. Overnight at Phoksundo

Note: Explore the magnificent Shey Phoksundo Lake, which is the deepest lake in Nepal and is renowned for its gorgeous blue waters. Visit the historic Tshowa Gompa, a 900-year-old Bon Monastery. Enjoy the interesting Bon customs and become fully immersed in Ringmo Village’s rich culture. After completing the high passes, take some time to relax and adjust. Don’t forget to take pictures of the lake, the cliffs and the lush trees!

After spending a wonderful day in Ringmo (11,808 ft), we continue our trek to Shyanta (8,265 ft). From Phoksundo, we trek downhill to Chhepka. The trail follows the massive overhanging rock from Chhepka. On the way, we found many important medicinal minerals that are believed to cure almost anything in this area. The trail then passes through villages and finally climbs to Shyanta. Overnight in Shyanta

Highlight: Explore the world of traditional herbal medicines in Dolpo, walk through the small village of Chhepka with its amazing rock formations, experience the breathtaking descent from Phoksundo Lake, and marvel at the breathtaking change in scenery as you pass from high alpine regions to lush mid-hill forests.

Today is the last day of our Lower Dolpo trek. We head towards Juphal (2,320 m) from Shyanta (2,520 m) . Following the trail gently sloping upwards, we meet tall birch trees. From atop the ridge, we get the most amazing views of the mountain above us and Juphal below. On reaching Juphal, we have some rest and spend our remaining time exploring the market. Overnight in Juphal. 

Note: Prepare yourself for the Lower Dolpo Circuit’s last spectacular trekking day! Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys as you meander over lovely forest trails dotted with birch and pine trees. Additionally, don’t pass up the opportunity to socialise with the locals in Juphal’s bustling market!

We catch an early morning flight from Juphal to Nepal. Upon arriving in Nepalgunj, depending on the schedule, we take the next flight to Kathmandu. Overnight in Kathmandu

Our representative from Bold Himalayan will drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport