Lower Dolpo Trek - 18 Days

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Lower Dolpo Trek in Nepal

The Lower Dolpo Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular off-the-beaten-path adventures, offering a rare opportunity to explore untouched Himalayan landscapes, ancient villages, and unique mountain cultures. Away from the crowded trekking routes, this journey takes you into the remote wilderness of western Nepal.

Designed by Mountain Miracle Treks & Expeditions with firsthand regional experience, the trek offers an unforgettable experience through deep valleys, alpine forests, high mountain passes, and breathtaking scenery. The highlight of the journey is Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s deepest and most beautiful lake, located inside Shey Phoksundo National Park.

The trail passes through traditional Tibetan and Bon communities, where trekkers can experience ancient customs, monasteries, prayer walls, and a peaceful mountain lifestyle. Along the way, you may encounter Himalayan wildlife such as blue sheep, musk deer, Himalayan griffons, and possibly the elusive snow leopard.

Starting with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Juphal, the trek leads through charming villages, river valleys, forests, and dramatic landscapes. Crossing the challenging Numa La Pass (5,318 m) and Baga La Pass (5,190 m), trekkers are rewarded with stunning views of the remote Dolpo region.

Dho Tarap, one of Nepal’s highest permanent settlements, offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional Himalayan life. The region’s spiritual heritage, influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and the ancient Bon religion, adds a unique cultural dimension to the adventure.

Known as the Phoksundo Lake Trek, Lower Dolpo is ideal for travelers seeking solitude, authentic culture, and raw Himalayan beauty. With improved trekking facilities and experienced guides, the journey combines adventure, comfort, and unforgettable memories.

Book your Lower Dolpo Trek with Mountain Miracle Treks & Expeditions and discover one of Nepal’s most remote and beautiful trekking destinations.

Trip Highlights

Ancient (Monastery) founded around eight hundred years ago at the base of the inorganic mountains.
Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayan Ranges – Mt. Nilgiri, Mt: Kyangyu, and Rupa Mountains.
Off the beaten rain shadow trekking trail of Nepal, only a few visitors can be seen during the trek: the itinerant lifestyle of locals, Tibetan Buddhism and Bon Ethnic community, trained yaks and nomadic people and their way of living.
Kanjirowa and Crystal Mountain: Flora mainly of Pine, oak, birch, Cypress, Walnut, Bamboo, and Maple.
Shay- Phoksundo National Park, located at an elevation of 3,611.5 m above sea level, and Shay-Phoksundo is the deepest lake in Nepal, with a length of 4.8 km and a depth of 600 m.
Wildlife of Shay-Phoksundo National Park: blue sheep, Musk deer, Ghoral, leopard, wild dog, wolf, Marmot, weasel, mouse hare, rhesus, and Langur monkeys. The higher reaches haunt the elusive snow leopard. Convoys of Yaks, mules, horses, and sheep.
High passes via Shay-Phoksundo lake- Numula-la and Bagala passes (5,100 m) and salt trade route and varieties of raw hubs.
A day tour of Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and the Kathmandu Durbar Square (UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu).

Outline Itinerary:

Detail Itinerary Short Itinerary

Day 01:Arrival in Kathmandu (1365m) and transfer to the hotel overnight in Kathmandu.

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed by a representative from Mountain Miracle Treks & Expedition, who will transfer you to your hotel. In the evening, a warm welcome dinner will be hosted by Mountain Miracle Treks & Expedition. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 02:Kathmandu city tour and further tour planning (1,365m) 5 hours tour.

After breakfast, we begin our journey to explore four stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include the architecturally rich Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the fascinating “Monkey Temple” (Swayambhunath), and the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world. After completing our sightseeing tour in the late afternoon, we drive to the Mountain Miracle Treks & Expedition office for a brief meeting about our trek and to get acquainted with our group leader (guide) and fellow travelers.

Day 03:From Kathmandu 50 minutes flight to Nepalgunj (150m) overnight.

Today, we take a flight to Nepalgunj, a town located near the Nepal–India border and the gateway to Simikot, Humla. The town itself is a fascinating Terai settlement that reflects Nepal’s diverse culture and society. In Nepalgunj, we visit the local market, a small-scale zoo, and nearby villages. Overnight stay in Nepalgunj.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 04:35 minutes flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal and trek from Juphal to Dunai (2150m),3 hrs,walk. hours

After breakfast, we travel to Jhupal. The town is beautifully situated in the Himalayan foothills, offering views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges to the north. Here, we meet our trekking staff and begin our adventure. We walk through terraced fields to the Bheri River and its narrow canyon. Continuing our trek, we reach Dunai, the administrative headquarters of the Dolpo region. In the evening, we explore the local area before camping overnight.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 05:Trek from Dunai to Tarakot (2,543m) 6 hours walk.

After breakfast, our trek continues along the southern bank of the Bheri River, heading upstream on a simple trail. En route, we pass through several deep crevasses, suspension bridges, and remote villages. The trail also includes a magnificent canyon covered with pine trees and a path built about seven meters above the river. After walking for some time, we are welcomed by the beautiful terraced fields of Tarakot, a small village situated on a hillock south of the Bheri River. Overnight stay in Tarakot.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 06:Trek from Tarakot to Laini odar(3,380m) 6- hours walk.

We walk along the Tarap Chu River and cross it twice before reaching Sandul Gompa. The gompa is situated at the confluence of the Barbung Khola and Tarap Chu rivers. We continue trekking along a trail that takes us through farm terraces and rural villages. After several ascents and descents, we finally arrive at Laini. Overnight stay in Laini.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 07:Trek From Laini odar to Nawarpani (3,545m) 6 hours walk.

We follow a high trail and walk along the ridge above the Tarap River. The journey is incredibly scenic as the valley narrows into a deep gorge, where in some places, it feels possible to jump from one side to the other. After a few challenging ascents and descents, we reach the banks of the Chyugur Khola, from where we continue to Nawarpani. Overnight stay in Nawarpani.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 08:Trek from Nawarpani to Dho-tarap (3,950m) 7 hours walk.

We begin today’s trek with a gradual ascent to Kamattarka, located at the confluence of the Tarap Chu and Lang Khola rivers. We cross a narrow gorge and leave the tree line behind, entering an area filled with wild roses and juniper shrubs, which are common in the dry inner Himalayan valleys. After walking for a few more hours, we reach the village of Dho Tarap, which is surrounded by a traditional stone wall. In this valley, both the Bon Po and Chaiba religious communities live together. Tarap is also home to a small number of Tibetans and mostly Magar people who have inhabited this region for generations. Overnight stay in Dho Tarap.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 09:Excursion around Dho-tarap (3,950m) for acclimatization.

The rest day will help with acclimatization and allow for some much-needed relaxation. We can spend the day visiting nearby monasteries and local communities. During these short walks, we also get an opportunity to learn more about the local culture and traditions. The people of Dolpo wear handcrafted clothing, sometimes dyed maroon, and often prefer Tibetan-style samba or dacha (boots with upturned toes) as footwear. Both men and women commonly wear religious amulets and strings of coral, gold, and turquoise. The people of this region mainly follow the Bon Po and Nyingmapa (Buddhist) traditions. Overnight stay in Dho Tarap.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10:Trek from Dho-tarap to Numa La Base Camp (4350m) 6 hours walk.

We trek towards the upper Tarap Valley, enjoying views of lush meadows on both sides of the river, a unique feature of this part of the inner Dolpo region. We follow the Tarap Chu River and admire the stunning landscapes of the vast Tarap Valley, with its wide-open fields and towering mountains. After a few hours of pleasant walking, we reach the village of Tokyu, which is home to a Buddhist monastery of the Chiba tradition. After exploring the monastery, we continue trekking up the valley along a rugged trail before reaching Numa La Base Camp. Overnight stay at Numa La Base Camp.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11:Trek from Numa La pass to Danighar (4,510m) via Numa la pass (5310m) 7 hrsr walk.

Today, we begin our trek towards Numa La Pass (5,310m), which will be a challenging section of the journey. We ascend along a steep trail, crossing endless ridges on rugged and rough terrain. Upon reaching the top of the pass, we are rewarded with breathtaking views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), the Churen Himal Range, and Norbung Kang (6,085m). After spending some time enjoying the spectacular scenery, we descend alongside the Gyambo Khola and continue towards the beautiful meadow of Danighar. Overnight stay at a tented camp in Danighar.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12:Trek from Danighar to Temche/yak kharka (4,000m) via Baga La pass (5,170m) 6 hrs walk.

Leaving Danighar behind, we head towards Temche via another high pass, Baga La (5,170m). We make a steep ascent along a rugged yak trail, and as we gain elevation, the increasing altitude may require extra effort. From the top of the pass, we are rewarded with views of sacred chortens, the majestic Norbung Kang (6,085m), and other surrounding peaks, along with the mesmerizing Phoksundo Lake. We then descend into a deep ravine and cross a frozen stream before reaching Temche. Overnight stay at a tented camp in Temche.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13:Trek from yak kharka to Shey phoksundo lake (3600m) 5 hours walk.

We first descend from Temche to Yak Kharka and then ascend towards the village of Ringmo, passing through a forested trail filled with lush vegetation, including oak, pine, juniper, and cypress trees. Accompanied by spectacular views of towering cliffs and a magnificent waterfall, we make our way to Ringmo village, a renowned Bon settlement in the Dolpo region. A short walk from Ringmo takes us to the stunning Phoksundo Lake. Overnight stay at a tented camp near Shey Phoksundo Lake.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14:Explore around shey phoksundo Lake (3600m).

We take another rest day from trekking and use this opportunity to explore Phoksundo Lake and Ringmo village. Phoksundo Lake is a stunning turquoise-colored lake and is considered one of the deepest lakes in Nepal. From the lake, we can enjoy a scenic view of Ringmo village. We explore the surrounding areas of Ringmo village and visit Tshowa (Bon Monastery), which was built approximately 900 years ago. We also encounter several beautiful glaciers above the lake area. Overnight stay at a tented camp near Shey Phoksundo Lake.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15:Trek from shey phoksundo Lake to Chhepka (2,678m) 6 hours walk.

Today, we begin our trek to Chhepka with a gradual walk along the riverside, followed by a steep ascent to the top of a hill that offers the last breathtaking view of beautiful Phoksundo Lake. From there, we descend for a while and make our way to Chunuwar. The trail then passes through forests of pine and birch trees towards Rechi. With a gradual series of uphill and downhill sections, we finally arrive at Chhepka. Overnight stay at a tented camp in Chhepka.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16:Trek from Chhepka to Jhupal (2,475m) 6 hours walk.

Trek from Chhepka to Juphal 2475m, 5-6 hours

Leaving Chhepka behind, we head towards Juphal, passing through the villages of Shyanta and Kageni. From Shyanta, we trek along a forested trail that leads us to the checkpoint of Shey Phoksundo National Park. We then cross the metal suspension bridge over Dhim Khola and continue towards Juphal, walking along narrow trails and through beautiful fields of barley and wheat. Overnight stay at a tented camp in Juphal.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17:Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj, and afternoon flight back to Kathmandu 1,365m).

We catch an early morning scenic flight to Nepalgunj from Juphal. Upon reaching Nepalgunj, we catch our next flight back to Kathmandu. We transfer you to the hotel in Kathmandu and give the rest of the day to yourself to relax and rest. Later in the evening, you can try out the local eateries in the capital city. Overnight at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 18:final Depature from kathmandu( 1365m) 20 minutes drive off (TIA) Airport.

According to your flight schedule, we will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) at least 3 hours before your departure time, as required by the airline.

Mountain Miracle Treks & Expeditions sincerely thanks you for choosing us to organize and support your Nepal journey. We hope you take home wonderful memories and remember us for your future adventures in Nepal.

It is time to say goodbye. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey back home and look forward to welcoming you again in Nepal.

Trip Photos

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Cost Includes

The airport picks up and drops off by private vehicle for your Arrival and departure.
Depending on the group size, we provide ground transportation with a car, van, jeep, Bus, or coaster.
Full-day city sightseeing tour of Kathmandu's world heritage sites with an experienced tour guide.
Three-night Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara on a sharing basis on the BB plan.
One- night accommodation in Nepalgunj on a sharing basis on the BB plan.
Flight fares- Kathmandu/Nepaljung/Jhupal/Nepaljung/Kathmandu- including airport tax and transport.
Accommodation in Guest houses/lodges during your Trek on a sharing basis.
Essential documents: Shey Phoksundo National Park permit and Restricted Area permit.
We provide meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—along the trek.
A knowledgeable and friendly trekking guide will be with you throughout your entire trekking journey.
All necessary types of camping equipment and staff will be provided according to the requirements.
We will serve seasonal fruits as dessert after your dinner during the trekking period.
If needed, we provide sleeping bags, down jackets, and duffle bags, which you must return after finishing the trek.
A general medical first aid kit will be provided for common medical issues. (Please consult your doctor if you have chronic diseases and obtain a prescription before traveling to Nepal.
Emergency helicopter services will be arranged and covered by your travel insurance. Clients should have travel insurance that includes high-altitude sickness emergencies and helicopter evacuation services.
A farewell dinner in Kathmandu at a traditional Nepali cultural restaurant after finishing the Trek.
All government taxes, VAT, and company service charges.

Cost Excludes

All alcoholic beverages, cold drinks, and dessert items are excluded.
Entrance fees for monuments and temples during your city tour.
Hot shower, Wi-Fi, Battery Charge, etc., during the Trek.
Personal trek/ tour gear (equipment) is not included.
Tipping for a guide, porters, and driver is expected.
Any additional expenses that are not specified in the included section.

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Trip Fact

Destination Nepal
Duration 18 Days
Trip Difficulty Moderate
Activity Camping Trek
Accomodation Hotel + Lodges

Transportation: Private Vehicle / Bus
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Duration : 18
Group Size : 1-15
Max-altitude : 5,170m.

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