Rara to Upper Dolpo Trek | Jumla Rara Dolpo Trekking
Itinerary
Your Journey, Step by Step
Fly to Nepalgunj (150m/492ft.)
After breakfast, we transfer to the domestic airport. Today we will have a one and half hour wonderful flight to Nepalgunj. Nepalgunj is situated in the southwestern part of Nepal, close to the Indian border and Bardia National Park. We have the evening to have look around the town. Overnight at Nepalgunj hotel.
Fly to Juphal (2,475m/8,120ft.)-Trek to Dunai (2,140m/7,020ft.)
Today we will take another flight to Juphal. Enjoying the beautiful views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks to the north, over the Himalayan foothill, we arrive at Juphal after about 45 minute’s flight from Nepalgunj. On arriving Nepalgunj we can breathe cold and fresh air than that of Nepalgunj. From Juphal, we have a short drive to Dunai. Dubai is the administrative headquarter of the Dolpo region and is an interesting place to observe its culture and way of daily life. Overnight at Dunai.
Trek to Chhepka (2,838m/9,311ft.)
After having breakfast, we will start our first-day trekking. From Dunai, the trail passes through pine forest and sometimes along the bank of river climbing over a ridge to Phoksundo River. Than trek leads downhill passing farm villages with walnut trees close to a stream at Dhara and climbing to Rahagoan village of Thakuri, we walk downhill to a forested area, Chhepka. Overnight camp at Chhepka farm village.
Trek to Samdo village (2,960m/9,711ft.) 6 hrs.
From Chhepka, we head toward Samdo village. First, we have a short climb then we descend through forest reaching a riverbank. From here climb in leaving the forest, from the top walk downhill to forested area leading upstream to cross a small bridge at Ryajik village. Finally, further trek leads to Sumdo village. Overnight at Sumdo village, near the entrance of Phoksundo National Park.
Trek to Phoksundo Lake (3,630m/11,909ft.)
Today we are trekking towards the Phoksundo lake, our first destination of the trek. Following Pungmo Khola, after Pungmo Khola valley and crossing streams, walking downhill into pine and birch trees to reach the upper side of Phoksundo Khola. Then we continue walking to Ringmo village. Ringmo is an interesting village of Tibetan origin with mud-plastered Chortens and Mani walls. From Ringmo village it is a short walk to Phoksundo Lake. Overnight at tented camp
Rest day at Phoksundo Lake
It’s another day at Phoksundo and today we will be exploring the area around Ringmo village and the magnificent Phoksundo Lake. We will visit Tshowa, the lake-shore Bon Monastery after exploring Ringmo village. Furthermore, there are several monasteries and Bon-Po religious sites in the park so we can also spend time visiting some of these. Another night at Phoksundo
Trek to Phoksundo-Khola (3,750m/12,303ft.) 5 hrs.
After spending two nights at Phoksundo, we start our trek to Phoksundo Khola. From here, walk starts to the higher area of the Upper Dolpo region. This wobbly trail suspended on a walkway of wood supported on pegs driven into the abyss in the rocks, signals the remoteness of the area we are about to enter. The path leads through a lush meadow, at the westernmost edge of the lake that opens up into the flood plain of the Phoksundo Khola. Then crossing the river and avoiding the occasional boggy marsh underfoot, leads to valley. Overnight camp on the bank of the river.
Trek to Phoksundo Bhanjyang (4,717m/15,475ft.) 4 hrs.
From Phoksundo Khola, our trek begins in the morning leading the northern area of Phoksundo Khola. Then walking up on the hill slopes, a steep uphill to reach the top with the impressive scenery of the wide green valley. Overnight camp on the nice green summer pasture
Cross Nangdalo La (5,350m/17,552ft.) and trek to Shey Gompa (4,160m/13,348ft.) via 6 hrs.
Today we will have steep climb littered with roster towards the pass. It will be quite a strenuous climb, especially on the slate screed. There are excellent views down upon a large valley which is severed by a spouting river, from the top of Nangdalo La (Kang-La). Descending steeply to the valley, the path leads along wandering trek along the bank of the river. We can see mud caves lining the hills overlooking the river then we pass through meadows. Finally, a red Chortens heralds our arrival at Shey Gompa (4,160m) and bizarre wooden, log bridge leads up to our destination at Shey Gompa. Overnight at tented camp.
Rest day at Shey Gompa the crystal monastery.
Today we will spend our day exploring Shey Gompa, a holy place for Buddhist people. From Shey Gompa, you can see Crystal mountain to the west, so it is also known as Crystal Monastery. Shey Gompa stands above the confluence of Kangju Nala and Yeju Nala. This region is well described in the novel Snow Leopard by Peter Matthiessen. Overnight at tented camp.
Shey Gompa to Tata (3,900m) via Tata La (4,750m)
Today’s trail goes uphill over a barren landscape and then level, with many ups and downs sections. And the views of Api Saipal, Kanjiroba, and other beautiful mountains are constantly visible along the route. We may also see blue sheep on the way. Finally, you reach Tata village, which has around 40 houses. Overnight at tented camps.
Tata to Bhijer Village (3800m)
From Tata village, we head toward Bhijer village. Bhijer village is a big village consisting of a monastery, school and few shops surrounded by barren landscape. Walking past Shamling Gumba, then we descend to Bhijer village. You might see Blue Sheep near this village. Overnight at Bhijer village.
Bhijer village to Patalchaur (Phokharka 4100m) via Yumbur La Pass (4813m)
After breakfast, we go uphill from Bhijer village. Following the most barren landscape, with the chance of seeing Blue Sheep, we reach Patalchaur. Overnight at Patalchaur.
Patalchaur to Pho village (4000m)
In the morning we start downhill trek for about two hours. Then we ascend to reach Pho village, last village in the northwestern region of Dolpo district. Pho village is surrounded by buckwheat and barley fields with 16 houses. Overnight in tented camp
: Pho village to Daldung Khor (4400m) via Nimagyalzen La 5500m
Today, the trail is a fairly difficult and hardest trail on the entire trekking journey. From Pho village, Nimagyalzen La is an uphill climb. Experiencing strong winds and snow we move higher. Beautiful Dhaulagiri, Api Saipal, Kanjiroba peaks are seen from the top of the pass. Then we descent from the pass which is comparatively easy. After 3 hours along the riverbank, we reach Daldung Khor. Overnight at Daldung Khor.
Daldung Khor to Pung Kharka (4450m)
From Daldung Khor, the trail goes along the riverbank, which makes today’s trek easy. On reaching Pung Kharka, we can find the surrounding valley extremely beautiful. Overnight camp near the river shore, with comparatively cold.
Pung Kharka to Chyandi Khola (4600m) Via Yala Pass 5414m
Today’s trail starts with a fairly good trail for a few hours, then we climb a hill. Then further walking leads us to the Yala Pass. From there, we descend to Chyandi Khola. Overnight camp at the highest spot of Chyandi Khola, which is a bit colder.
Chandi Khola to Takla Khola (3800m) via Jack Pass 4600m
From Chyandi Khola, until we come to a river crossing point, the trail goes downhill. Then we climb steeply through a narrow trail with bushes on sideways. Descending the Jack pass we arrive at a jungle before coming out to a riverbank. Overnight camp at Takla Khola
Takla Khola to Thaju Chaur (4100m) via Chyargo La Pass 5150m
We ascend gradually through a jungle, from Takla Khola. Then we climb down through a moderately easy trail from the top of the hill till we arrive at an open ground nearby a river. Overnight camo at Thaju Chaur.
Thaju Chaur to Shilen Kharka (2900m)
Today we descend slowly crossing forests and rivers. On reaching Shilen Kharka we can see a few hotels. Overnight camp at Shilen Kharka.
Shilen Kharka to Pulu (2600m)
Moving forward to Pulu, with the loss in altitude we enter into the warmer zone. We will be walking mostly along the bank of the river, requiring to cross the river at different points. We can find some hotels along the way. Pulu, the administrative center of the region consists of police posts and good hotels. Overnight camp at Pulu.
Pulu to Lumsa (2300m) 6-7 hours
From Pulu, our trail continues along the river bank, crossing over suspension bridge several times. We get the chance to meet locals going through past villages and millet fields. Lumsa, a small hamlet where most people belong to the Chhetri caste with 30 houses and few shops. Overnight camp at Lumsa
Lumsa to Rara Lake (2900m)
Today we are heading toward the final destination of our trek, Rara lake. From Lumsa, the trail goes through Mugu village to Gamgadhi. From swing bridge, continue up a very steep zig-zag track, stretching down a long ridge above the Mugu Karnali river. Then we ascend quite steep dusty trek to the lip of the valley and finally, we reach Rara Lake through pine and juniper. Rara, the deepest and the biggest lake in Nepal. Overnight in tented camp.
Rest & Explore at Rara Lake
After having breakfast, we visit all around Rara Lake. Rara lake is located inside Rara National Park. Rara National park is hemmed in by pine forest from all sides full of birds, flowers and wild animals. Otter and different kinds of fish found in Rara Lake. Overnight at tented camp
Fly to Nepalgunj(150m) and same day fly to Kathmandu(1400m)
After a well spends the day in Rara, we head toward Talca Airport. we take a flight from Talca to Nepalgunj. Upon arriving Nepalgunj, we return to Kathmandu on the next available flight. On reaching Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Kathmandu hotel.
Free day in Kathmandu
It’s your free day in Kathmandu. You can explore the nearby area or you can relax in your hotel. Overnight in Kathmandu hotel.
Departure
I hope you had a great time in Nepal. A representative from Bold Himalayan will take you to the airport before three hours of your departing time. Thank you.
Inclusions
What’s Covered in Your Adventure
- Airport arrival and departure service.
- 3 star accommodation in Kathmandu and nepalgunh
- All domestic flight arrangements
- All permit fees
- Experienced license holder trekking guide
- Teahouse Accommodation during the trek
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the trek
- Every expense associated with the Guide
- First aid kit
- Camping equipment
- Government taxes and service charges
- Nepal Entry Visa Fee
- Travel insurance cost
- Additional accommodation in Kathmandu in case of early arrival, or late departure
- Extra expenses such as mineral water, beer, telephone, laundry, bar bills
- Tips for guides and porters
Good to Know
Your Journey, Step by Step
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
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 – 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 – 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Upper Dolpo Luxury Trek
Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek Via Upper Dolpo
Inner Dolpo Circuit Trek
Rara Lake short trek
FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
To access Dolpa, the journey typically begins by reaching Nepalgunj. From there, travelers have two options: either take a jeep to Dunai or catch a flight to Jhuphal.
To Trek from Upper Dolpo to Upper Mustang, there are three main routes. The first route involves arriving in Kagbeni and then proceeding to Upper Mustang. The second route starts from Chharka (Dolpo) and goes to Ghami Phedi, then continues to Ghami via the Ghami La Pass, which stands at 5,700m. This route is usually open only during the first part of autumn. The third route is via the Khekyap Pass (5,350m), also available during the early autumn season.
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