Lower Dolpo Circuit trek

Lower Dolpo Circuit trek

Lower Dolpo Circuit trek distance. You need to fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and then to Juphal. The trek starts from Dunai Palchekhola. It is a quiet and less crowded trek with fewer trekkers compared to other treks in Nepal.

Day 01 Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1.300m)

The Lower Dolpo circuit trek, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative outside the arrival terminal after completing immigration and baggage procedures.

From the airport, you will be transferred to the hotel in a private vehicle. The airport usually takes 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic, and offers your first glimpse of Kathmandu’s lively streets. Local markets and cultural atmosphere.

Lower Dolpo Circuit trek | After checking in at the hotel, you can relax and recover from your journey. There will be a short briefing from your guide, who will explain about the Lower Dolpo trek

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 02: Trekking Permits and Dolpo trek preparation day in Kathmandu Hotel

This day  manage for trekking permit, before heading into the mountains. It’s an important and practical day to ensure a smooth and well-organized trek

Trekking Permit arrangement: Lower Dolpo special trekking permit and Phoksandu park permits.

We need the following documents: Your Passport photo copy with Nepali visa and two passport-size photos with your Travel insurance details.

You need time to check your trekking gear, what you need for the Lower Dolpo trek

Trekking equipment: such as trekking boots, a down jacket, and a sleeping bag, you need to buy or renting you will get them in the Thamel Trekking shop.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.

including: Breakfast service.

Day 03: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj

From the hotel, transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for a domestic flight to Nepalgunj

, located in the western Terai region of Nepal near the indian border.

From Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, approximately 50 minutes to one-hour flight, offering views of the plains and the distant Himalayan range, if the weather is clear.

Upon arrival at Nepalgunj airport, transfer to the hotel. Nepalgunj is a busy and culturally diverse city, quite different from Kathmandu, with a warmer climate and a mix of Nepali and Indian influences.

In the evening, enjoy a dinner at the hotel, preparing for the next day’s journey toward the remote Dolpo region.

Overnight: Hotel in Nepalgunj.

Including: Dinner and breakfast.

Distance: 500 km from Kathmandu

Day 04: Nepalgunj-Juphal fly and trek to Dunai

From Nepalgunj: You will fly on an early morning flight to Juphal airport (2,475m), the gateway to the remote Dolpa region. The flight takes about 35-40 minutes, offering spectacular views of the western Himalayas and deep river valleys.

Upon arrival in Juphal, you will meet the trekking staff for the beginning trek to Dunai. The trail descends gradually through terraced fields and traditional villages, following the Bheri River downstream.

You will pass through small settlements and enjoy the peaceful rural areas of this less-visited region. After a few hours of easy to reach Dunai (2140m), the administrative headquarters of the Dolpo district.

Dunai is a charming village with basic lodges, Schools, and a government office, surrounded by hills and Rivers.

Accommodation: Tents or lodge

Trek duration: 2-3 hours from Juphal to Dunai

Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Day 05: From Dunai to Tarakot

After Breakfast in Dunai, the trek begins by following the scenic trail along the Bheri River, heading west into a more remote and rugged landscape of the Dolpo region.

The Lower Dolpo circuit trek follows a mostly gentle path, passing through pine forest, small villages, and cultivated land fields. You will walk alongside the river, crossing a few suspension bridges and enjoying the peaceful surroundings far from busy trekking routes.

Along the route: You may encounter local people carrying goods and livestock, giving you a glimpse of traditional life in this isolated area.

After several hours of trek, you reach Tarakot (2540m), an ancient forest village that once served as an important trading point along the route to Tibet. The village is known for its historic hilltop fort and monasteries.

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours

Overnight: Lodge or camp in Tarakot

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Day 06: Tarakot to Lahini

From the Tarakot, the trail continues along the Bheri River, gradually entering a narrower and more remote valley. The landscape becomes more rugged, with cliffs, deep gorges, and fewer settlements as you move deeper into the Dolpo region

Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek | You will follow a mix of reverbank paths and forested sections, occasionally crossing suspension bridges. The trail involves some ups and downs, but remains manageable, with beautiful views of wild terrain and untouched nature.

Dlpo trek: You may pass a small seasonal settlement and grazing areas used by local herders. This scetion of the trek is more isolated, giving a true sense of wilderness adventure.

After several hours of trek, you reach Lahini (about 3,160m), a small campsite area located near the river, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and high hills.

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours

Overnight: Lodge or camp in Lahini

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Day 07: From Lahini to Bavo Cave

After Breakfast in Lahini, the Dolpo circuit trek continues deeper into the remote Dolpo region, following the upstream trail along the river. The trekking route becomes more adventurous, with narrow carved into rocky cliffs and sections that require careful walking.

You will pass through dramatic gorges, cross suspension bridges, and walk along high trails above the River, offering stunning views of the wild and untouched landscape. This section is less populated, and you may see occasional herders or caravans along the way.

Dolpo Circuit Trek | The trail involves a gradual ascent with some chalinging scetion, but the scenery is worth the effort with towering cliffs, cascading streams, and a true sense of isolation.

After a long day of trekking, you reach Bavo Cave at about 3,500m. a significant natural cave used by pilgrims and locals for shelter and spiritual purposes. That area provides a unique camping experience in a peaceful and sacred environment.

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours

Overnight: Lodge or camp in Bavo Cave

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Day 08: Bavo Cave to Dho Trap

After breakfast, Bavo Cape, the trail continues upstream along the narrow gorge of the Trap River, gradually gaining altitude. This is one of the most dramatic sections of the trek, with steep canyon walls, a rocky path, and remote wilderness surroundings.

The Lower Dolpo Circuit trekking route involves several ascents and descents, with a section of narrow trails carved into cliffs. As you move higher, the landscape begins to open up, transitioning from deep into a wider valley.

After passing through isolated terrain and a small seasonal settlement, you finally enter the beautiful high -altitude valley of Dho Trap (about 3,944m). This is one of the highest permanent settlements in Nepal, inhabited by people of Tibetan origin.

. Dho Trap is a fascinating village with traditional stone houses, an ancient monastery, and a unique culture influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and Bon traditions. The wide valley, surrounded by barren hills and snow-capped peaks, offers a striking contrast to the narrow gorges of previous days.

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours

Overnight: Lodge or camp in Dho Trap

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Day 09: From Dho Trap to Numu La Base Camp

Trek from Dho Trap, the trail leaves the wide valley and gradually ascends toward the high mountain terrain leading to Numu La Pass. This day marks the beginning of a more chalinging section of the Dolpo trek.

On the Lower Dolpo Circuit trek, you will walk across open alpine landscapes, passing grazing areas used by yak herders and small seasonal camps. The trail steadily climbs along a valley with beautiful views of the barren hills, distant snow peaks, and vast high-altitude scenery.

As you gain elevation, the air becomes thinner, so it’s important to walk at a steady pace and stay well hydrated. The surroundings become increasingly remote and rugged, with fewer signs of habitation

After several hours of gradual ascent, you reach Numu La Base Camp (about 4,440m), a quiet camping area set in a wide valley beneath the towering Numu La Pass.

Duration of Trek: 5-6 hours Dho Trap

Accommodation: Tent Camp at Numu La Base Camp.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with coffee or tea included.

Day 10: Crossing from Numu La Base camp via Numu La Pass to Baga La Base Camp.

This is one of the most chalinging and rewarding days of the Lower Dolpo trek, as you cross two high passes in a remote alpine environment

Numu La Pass (5,143 m)

Early in the morning, the climb steeply from Numu La Base Camp toward Numu La Pass (5,143 m). The ascent is long and demanding, with rocky switchbacks and thin air.

From the summit of the Numu La pass, you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of snow -covered peaks, deep valleys, and the vast wilderness of the Dolpo.

After spending a short time at the summit, you begin a careful descent toward the next valley.

Trek to Baga La Base Camp

The descent is steep at first, then gradually becomes gentler as you enter a new valley system. The trail passes through rugged terrain, glacial streams, and high alpine landscapes.

After several hours of trekking, you reach Baga La Base Camp (Around 4,700m), a remote Camping site located beneath the next major Pass.

This is a quiet and isolated campsite surrounded by mountains, where you can rest and prepare for the next days crossing of Baga La Pass.

Duration of Trek: 5-7 hours from Base Camp

Accommodation: Tent Camp at Baga La Base Camp.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with coffee or tea included.

Day 11: Baga La Base Camp to via Baga La pass and Phedi

This day begins early from Baga La Base Camp. Crossing the high pass is best done in the morning, when the weather is more stable and the winds are lighter.

Ascet to Baga La Pass.

The trail gradually climbs over rocky terrain and alpine slopes. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes more barren and dramatic, typical of the high Himalayas in the Dolpo Region.

Lower Dolpo Trek steady uphill trek. You reach Baga La Pass (Around 5,070 meters). From the top, you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of snow capped Himalyan Peaks.

This pass is often marked with prayer flags, creating a spiritual and peaceful atmosphere

Descet to Baga La Phedi

After enjoying the views, the trail descends steeply toward Baga La Phedi. The descent can be rocky and requires careful footing, especially if there is snow or loose gravel.

Loer Dlpo Trek high alpine terrain to slightly greener valleys, occasional grazing areas used by local yak herders.

Finally, you arrive at Baga La Phedi, a basic camping area where trekkers usually rest after crossing the pass.

Duration of Trek: 6-7 hours from Base Camp

Accommodation: Tent Camp at Baga La Base Phedi.

Difficulty: Chalinging (due to the high altitude and steep section.

High point Baga La Pass (5,169m)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with coffee or tea included.

Day 12: Trek from Baga La Phedi to Shey Phoksundo Lake

Trek from Baga La Phedi, the trail continues descending from the high alpine zone into a dramatic mix of cliffs, forest, and river valleys. Today’s journey is long but very rewarding as you approach one of Nepal’s most beautiful Lakes

As you descend, the landscape slowly changes from barren high mountain to greener valleys and pine forest.

Arrival at Shey Phoksundo Lake

After several hours of trekking, you reach the stunning turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,640m). This glacial lake is famous for its deep blue color, surrounded by high cliffs and dramatic landscaes.

The lake is located within Shey Phoksundo National Park, a protected area known for its rare wildlife, ancient bon culture, and remote Himalayan beauty.

Evening at Phoksundo Lake

You will set up Camp or stay in a nearby lodge at Ringmo village. The evening is peaceful, with a reflection of the mountains on the lake’s surface and a calm alpine atmosphere.

Duration of Trek: 5-6 hours from Base Camp

Accommodation: Tent or Lodge at Phoksundo Lake

High point Fhoksundo Lake (3,640m)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with coffee or tea included.

Day 13: Exploring at Shey Phoksundo Lake

A rest and exploration day at Phoksundo Lake is one of the highlights of the Dolpo region trek. The lake sits at about 3,600m inside Shey Phoksundo National Park and is known for its deep turquoise water, dramatic cliffs, and untouched Himalayan wilderness.

Phoksundo Lake in the morning

Early morning is the best time to experience the lake. The water is usually calm, reflecting the surrounding cliffs and snow-capped peaks. The silence here is striking, broken only by wind and distant waterfalls.

Dolpo Trek: You can walk along the shoreline near Ringmo village and enjoy different viewpoints of the lake from various angles.Ringmo village.

Accommodation: Tent Camp or Lodge.

High point Phoksundo Lake (3.640m)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with coffee or tea included.

Day 14 Phoksundo Lake to Richi Camp

The trail starts with a steady descent from Rinmo and Phoksundo Lake, following the river valley downstream. You will pass through the narrow cliffside paths with stunning gorge views.

The landscape changes quickly from dry alpine terrain to greener vegetation as you lose elevation.

You arrive in Riche

After several hours of trek, you reach Richi (Around 2,940m), a quiet forested camppsited campsite located along the river. This is a common overnight stop on the way back from Phoksundo Lake.

Riche is surrounded by dense forest, making it peaceful and cooler compared to the higher camps. It’s a good place to rest after the long descent from the lakes region.

Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours from Phoksund Lake

Accommodation: Camping or Lodge.

Including: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with coffee or tea,

Day 15: Trek from Riche to Raktang

Trek follows the River downtown, walking through a peaceful forest trail with occasional ups and downs. The path includes dense pine and mixed forests.

The sound of the river and birdsong replaces the silence of the high mountains, giving a refreshing change in atmosphere.

After several hours of steady trekking, you reach Raktang (around 2,900m), a quiet forest campsite located along the river valley.

Raktang is a peaceful stopover point with basic camping space, surrounded by trees and natural scenery. It is often used as a resting place before continuing down toward Chhepka and Dunai.

Duration of Trek: 5-6 hours from Riche

Accommodation: Tent Camp or Lodge

High point Raktang (2,900m)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with coffee or tea included.

Day 16 Trek Raktang to Juphal

The Lower Dolpo trek trail follows the river downstream, with a mix of gentile descents and occasional uphill sections. Along the way, you will pass through dense pine and rhododendron forests. Suspension bridges over the Suligad Bheri River.

As you descend, the air becomes warmer and thicker, and you start to feel closer to civilization again.

After Several hours of trekking, you reach Juphal (2,475m), the main village above the Dolpa airstrip and gateway to the outside world.

From here, you are very close to Juphal Airport, where your return flight will be scheduled (usually to Juphal, Nepalgunj, and Nepal.

Juphal has basic lodges, small shops, and a calm hillside setting overlooking the valley below.

Duration of Trek: 6-7 hours from Taktang Juphal

Accommodation: Tent or Lodge

High point Juphal (2,475m)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with coffee or tea included.

Day 17: From Juphal flight to Nepalgunj and onward flight to Kathmandu.

From Juphal, you take an early morning scenic flight to Nepalgunj Airport. The short flight offers beautiful aerial views of the remote hills and river valleys of western Nepal.

Upon arrival at Nepalgunj, you will immediately connect to your same-day domestic flight back to Kathmandu, depending on flight schedules and weather conditions.

The flight from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu takes you through the lowland Tarai region back to the capital, passing over the foothills and eventually the Himalayan ranges on clear days.

Arrival in Kathmandu from the Nepalgunj flight

On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to the hotel in the City.

Day 18: Rest Day in Kathmandu

After completing your Lower Dolpo Trekking adventure and arriving back in Kathmandu, this is your safe and comfortable rest day at the hotel.

Hotel in Kathmandu: You will stay in a standard tourist hotel in Kathmandu, where you can relax, recover, and enjoy modern comforts after the long mountain Journey.

Include: Hotel with Breakfast service.

Day 19: Departure day, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.

After breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu, you will complete your memorable trekking journey in Nepal. The drive usually takes around 35 minutes to hours depending on traffic conditions.

Lower Dolpo trek: Best time to travel

The Lower Dolpo Circuit trek is best in the autumn (September to the end of December and the spring season (March to May). This season offers excellent views of the Nepal Himalayan range with landscapes, providing the trekkers with the best trekking experience. The Temperature during these periods is moderate, striking a balance between hot and cold.

Lower Dolpo Circuit trek cost | 2,330 USD per person, Group size 1-5 Pax,

One single trekker costs | 2640 USD

Lower Dolpo Circuit trek cost includes food items. Trek Cost includes typical foods such as Noodles, Rice, Pasta, Potato dishes, fresh vegetables, eggs, and Chicken items at the same time for dinner and Lunch. Breakfast items: Tibetan bread, Pancake, muesli, Porridge, and toast with peanut butter. Honey and jam