βBest Time To Do Rara Lake Upper Dolpo Trek
Spring and autumn are the seasons that have the most favorable condition for trekking. In spring (March to May) Dolpo becomes a paradise with blooming flowers and lush green landscapes. The daytime weather is pleasant for trekking. Nights in altitudes can get chilly. Trails are usually clear with weather for soaking in the mesmerizing mountain views although occasional rain showers are not uncommon.
In the fall season (September, to November) Dolpo becomes a trekking spot more. The weather stays pleasant and dry similar, to spring with temperatures and little rainfall. This time of year also coincides with harvest festivities providing trekkers with opportunities to engage in festivals and cultural traditions while surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Dolpo.
Trekking during the monsoon season, which runs from June to August, could be risky due to excessive precipitation. There's a potential for landslides, and severe rains could cause flight cancellations.
The walk is challenging during the winter months of December through February due to dense fog and a lot of snowfall. Therefore, it is best to avoid making the walk in the winter.
Difficulty level of Rara to Upper Dolpo Trek
The Upper Dolpo trek, at Rara Lake presents a moderate to level of difficulty due to its duration, varied terrain, high elevations and seclusion. The trail features passes, steep inclines and declines as well as rough stretches of land that can be physically demanding even for seasoned hikers.
Hiking in areas, above 5,000 meters can be tough, due to altitude sickness and lower oxygen levels so it's important to acclimatize and climb slowly. The Dolpo regions remoteness makes it hard to find amenities and medical help so being self reliant and prepared is essential. Hikers, in the Himalayas should have the clothes, equipment and emergency items to handle the changing weather conditions. The Dolpo trek provides views and cultural encounters. Requires a decent amount of physical fitness, endurance and past trekking know how, for a secure and pleasant adventure.
Make sure to check out Things to Know before going trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal
Rara to Upper Dolpo Trek Preparations
Preparing physically for the Dolpo trek is essential to ensure your body is ready, for the challenges of hiking in terrains and high altitudes. Start by working on improving your fitness with activities like hiking, running, biking or swimming. Regular aerobic exercises will enhance your heart and lung function helping you maintain energy levels during treks. Include strength training focusing on muscle groups such as legs, core and upper body to boost strength and endurance. Exercises, like squats, lunges, planks and push ups can help build muscle stamina needed for carrying a backpack and navigating paths. Don't forget about flexibility and balance β incorporate yoga stretching routines or balance exercises into your workouts to increase flexibility prevent injuries and stay stable on trails. Gradually increase the intensity of your workouts to mimic trekking demands; if possible include uphill and downhill walks to prepare for terrains you'll face. Lastly rest is crucial β give your body time to recover between training sessions so it can adapt and rebuild strength effectively.
For more information click on Tips and Advice for Perfect Trekking in Nepal
Rara Lake Upper Dolpo Trek Permits
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit
Rara National Park Entry Permit
Restricted Area Permit(RAP):
You will need RAP to enter Upper Dolpo, Shey Phoksundo National Park, and Shey-Phoksundo Rural Municipality.
We completely handle the procedure to obtain all these permits and this service is included in the trip cost. This allows trekkers to travel without any disturbances and makes the journey smooth and comfortable.
Passport and Visa:
Make sure your passport is valid, for six months from the date you enter Nepal. Also get a tourist visa for Nepal, which you can acquire when you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or, at land border checkpoints.
Visa On Arrival procedure
Fill the Visa Application Form which you get in the immigration counters. You can also download these forms online from https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/ and fill it before your arrival so that you can save time.
Submit the filled visa application form, passport, and one passport-sized photo to the immigration officer at the counter.
Pay the visa fee at the counter. The fees are as follows:
15 Days: USD 30
30 Days: USD 50
90 Days: USD 125
You can check the immigration department site for the latest information on visa fees. https://www.immigration.gov.np/en
Once your visa application is processed and the fee is paid, the immigration officer will affix the visa sticker to your passport. Now you just need to proceed to the immigration clearance counters and have your passport stamped by the immigration officer.
Rara Lake Upper Dolpo Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance is really important when you're planning to go on the Dolpo trek. It gives you peace of mind and protection in case anything unexpected happens during your trip. This insurance covers a range of situations, like emergencies, trip cancellations, interruptions and travel delays. In Dolpos rugged landscape where medical facilitiesre scarce and weather can be unpredictable having travel insurance means you'll get the help you need in case of an emergency. It takes care of costs, for emergency treatment, evacuation and bringing you home if needed making sure that you get the right care quickly if you get sick or injured.
Rara Lake Upper Dolpo Packing List
Clothing:
Moisture-wicking T-shirts
Waterproof and breathable trekking pants
Insulated jacket or fleece
Waterproof and windproof jacket
Undergarments and socks (synthetic or wool)
Thermal base layers (tops and bottoms)
Long-sleeve shirt for sun protection
Warm hat and gloves
Sun hat or cap with a neck flap
Footwear:
Proper hiking boots
Hiking socks capable of moisture absorption
Gear and Equipment:
Backpack (50-70 liters) with rain cover
Trekking poles
Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
Sunglasses with UV protection
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad or mattress
Water bottles or hydration system
Personal toiletries
Other Items:
Passport, visa, and permit document
Travel insurance documents
Emergency contact information
Nepali cash for purchases, tips, and emergencies
Camera or smartphone
Portable charger or power bank
Snacks and energy bars
Rara to Upper Dolpo Trek Cost
The total cost of this Trek package is Falano USD. Check out the include/exclude section of this page to get information on the list of services that are included and excluded within this trek cost.
Similar Treks in the Dolpo Region
Upper Dolpo to Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Dolpo Luxury Trek
Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek Via Upper Dolpo
Inner Dolpo Circuit Trek
Rara Lake short trek