Lower Dolpo Trek offers an outstanding trekking experience in the remote and least developed isolated western region of Nepal. Trekking in this area, is an adventurous that is full of enthusiasm, excitement and an unforgettable life time experience.
It is a rain shadow landscape of the Himalayas and was opened in 1991 for trekking, the focal point of this region is Shey Phoksundo National park, popular for diverse flora and fauna .This Dolpo region is remote and rugged protected area, is both scenically and culturally attractive. The lower Dolpo trek begins from Kathmandu with visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites to the hidden unspoiled natural and cultural treasures in Lower Dolpo.
Geographically, it is similar to Tibetan plateau and is generally dry, cold and sparsely vegetated. The main attraction of the Lower dolpo trek is the wild and pristine landscape, unspoiled trans-Himalayan culture and tradition, isolated Buddhist monuments, ancient villages, Shey Phoksundo National Park, the tranquil Phoksundo Lake, Impressive waterfall and wildlife such as Blue sheep, Mountain Goat, Jackal and the legendary Snow Leopard.
Thus, Lower Dolpo Trek is one of the best life time experience to the wild adventure seeking traveler for the exploration of exotic unspoiled mountain nature, colorful culture, tradition and life style of mountain people.
Itinerary
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, meet and greet at Tribhuwan International Airport. Transfer to hotel. Check in to hotel. Short briefing of trip and rest for refreshment and overnight at hotel, Kathmandu.
After breakfast, pick up from hotel and head towards the sightseeing tour in Kathmandu especially UNESCO world cultural heritage sites which includes Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swoyambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square for the experience of beautiful fusion of religion, culture and history. These heritage monuments reflect centuries old culture, arts and architecture of Nepal which are unique in world. After tour, drop off to hotel and make a preparation for Lower Dolpo trek, including all trekking permits and equipment. Overnight at hotel, Kathmandu.
After breakfast, transfer to domestic airport terminal for the flight to Nepalgunj which is about 40 minutes long.After landing in Nepalgunj, transfer to hotel. Check in to hotel and explore the city. Overnight at hotel, Nepalgunj.
After breakfast, transfer to Nepalgunj Airport for the flight to Juphal which is about 35 minutes long. After landing in Juphal, meet and greet with the trekking crew and start the trek through the green terraced fields alongside the Bheri River and through the narrow canyon to reach a large village of Dunai.Overnight at hotel, Dunai.
After breakfast, start the trek to Tarakot. The trek continues along the southern bank of the Bheri River heading upstream on an easy trail. Along the way, the trek goes through several deep gorges, hanging bridges and isolated villages. The trail also includes a tremendous gorge with pine trees and a path built about seven meters above the river. After walking for a while, there will be greeted by the colorful, terraced field of Tarakot, a small village that stands on a hillock to the south of the Bheri River. Overnight at camp, Tarakot.
After breakfast, start the trek to Laini.The trek goes alongside Tarap Chu River and crosses it twice before reaching Sandul Gompa. The gompa lies at a junction between Barbung Khola and Tarap Chu River. The trek continues moving on a trail that passes through farm terraces and rural villages. After ascending and descending for a while, the trek reaches Laini. Overnight at camp, Laini.
After breakfast, start the trek to Nawarpani.The trek climbs on a steep trail and goes along switchback above the Tarap River. The trek is quite exciting as the valley becomes a narrow gorge that in some places jump from one side to another occurs. Several vigorous climbs and descents will lead to the banks of the Chyugur Khola, from where the trek reaches Nawarpani. Overnight at camp, Nawarpani.
After breakfast, start the trek to Do Tarap.The trek begins by gradually ascending to Kamattarka at the confluence of the Tarap Chu and Lang Khola.Cross a narrow gorge and leave the tree line behind and welcome wild rose and juniper bushes, typical of the dry inner Himalayan valleys. After walking for several more hours, reach the village of Do Tarap which is surrounded by an irregular stone wall. In this Valley both Bon Po and Chaiba religious sects reside together. Tarap is also inhabited by a few Tibetans and mostly Magars who have lived here for many generations. Overnight at camp, Do Tarap.
Today is rest day for acclimatization and provides an opportunity to get acquainted with the local culture. The Dolpo people wear homespun clothing that is sometimes dyed a maroon color and they favor Tibetan style somba or dhocha (boots with upturned toes) for foot wear. Both men and women often wear religious amulets and strings of coral, amber and turquoise. The people of the region are both Bon Po and Nyingmapa (Buddhist sects). Overnight at camp, Do Tarap.
After breakfast, start the trek to Numa La Base Camp. The trek heads towards the upper Tarap valley enjoying views of lush grasslands on both sides of the river which is unique to this part of the inner Dolpo. Walk alongside Tarap Chu River and take pleasure in the amazing views of the vast Tarap valley with its wide plains and high mountains. A few hours’ good walk leads to the village of Tokyu which houses a Buddhist monastery of the Chiba sect. After exploring the monastery, continue walking up the valley on a rough trail before reaching the Numa La Base Camp. Overnight at camp, Numa La Base Camp.
After breakfast, start the trek of today which is the toughest and one of the longest days of trek. The trek begins crossing the Numa La pass on a steep trail all the way up the top ridge of the pass. From the ridge, an incredible views of the barren mountains of Dolpo up to Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m) can be observed. After getting to the top of Numa La, descend to camp at Pelung Tang. Overnight at camp, Pelung Tang.
After breakfast, start the trek to Dajok Tang. The trek begins steep climb up to the top of Baga La pass. It offers fantastic views of the dry landscape and the distant snow-capped mountains including Mt. Kanjirowa. Spend some time at the top of the pass taking pictures and generally enjoying the mesmerizing views. Next, descend down to Dajok Tang. Overnight at camp, Dajok Tang.
After breakfast, start the trek to Ringmo.The trek goes on trails alongside beautiful pine forests and alpine vegetation. After trekking for a short while on an easy trail with only gradual highs and lows, the trek reaches Ringmo Village. The village is a traditional Tibetan village of the Dolpo region. Overnight at camp, Ringmo.
After breakfast, hike to Phoksundo Lake. Explore the great Phoksundo Lake and camp at its shores. Observe the yak caravans moving in and out of Ringmo mostly towards Tibetan borders on remote mountain trails. The scene is even depicted in a Hollywood movie ‘Caravan’ shot mostly in this location. On the way to the lake, visit also a nearby monastery. Upon reaching the Phoksundo Lake, enjoy a relaxing walk on the serene lake’s shores. Overnight at camp, Phoksundo.
After breakfast, start the trek to Shyanta. Trek downhill to Chepka. From Chepka the trail follows a massive overhanging rock. During the trek, there are found many important medicinal minerals which are believed to cure almost anything in this area. The route then passes through villages, before climbing to Shyanta. Overnight at camp, Shyanta.
After breakfast, start the trek to Jhupal via Sulighat on a trail surrounded by birch trees. From atop a ridge, it offers the most spectacular views of the mountain above and Jhupal Village below. Utmost caution is required while trekking along this trail. After reaching Jhupal, explore the busy market town or simply take a rest. Overnight at hotel, Jhupal.
After breakfast, fly back to Nepalgunj for about 35 minutes and then to Kathmandu for about 40 minutes. After arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to Hotel. Check in to Hotel and rest for refreshment. In the evening Farewell dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant with cultural dance performance. Overnight at hotel, Kathmandu.
This is a Leisure day. So, enjoy the free time by shopping at souvenir shops or hanging around Thamel (Tourism hub city) to buy some souvenirs.
Leisure until departure. Transfer to international airport to board the flight.
Cost
Cost Includes
Airport pickup and drop by private vehicle.
Welcome drinks (non-alcoholic) and Farewell dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant with a cultural dance show.
All accommodation in 3-star category hotels on bed and breakfast basis in Kathmandu whilst Tent Camp accommodation on full board basis (all meals) during the trek.
Sightseeing in Kathmandu with private vehicle and Tour guide.
All sightseeing monuments entrance fees.
Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Juphal – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu air transportation by flight.
All the necessary permit charges for trekking (Lower Dolpo Trek permit + National Park + Phoksundo Lake), official service charges, government and local taxes.
Highly experienced, friendly, government license holder guide and porter with salary, accommodation, food, transportation and insurance.
Sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and trekking poles (To be returned after the completion of trekking).
Medical supplies (First aid kit carried by trekking leader).
Arrangement of helicopter service (for the rescue of emergency situation), which will be paid by your travel insurance company.
Cost Excludes
Nepalese visa fee.
International airfare.
Trekking, medical and travel insurance (Compulsory).
Lunches and Dinners not mentioned above.
All personal expenses (phone calls,laundry,bar bills,battery recharge,extra porters,bottle or boiled water,shower etc.)
All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic hot and cold drinks.
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu, early arrival or late departure,early return or late return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
Tips for the guide, porter and driver (tips is expected).
Gallery
Overview
Cost
