The Lower Dolpo Trek is an adventurous and rewarding trek to the remote western part of Nepal. Unlike other popular treks like Everest or Annapurna treks, which are popular among trekkers because of their breathtaking views of the Himalayas, Lower Dolpo is a relatively unknown area. This trek takes you through tough terrain, steep climbs, and rough trails. The daily walk on this trek ranges between 5 and 7 hours. During this time, you will cross suspension bridges over fast-flowing rivers and pass through vast landscapes that are serene and untouched.
The Lower Dolpo Trek is not easy, but this trek has a lot to offer. You will be rewarded with breathtaking views of desert landscapes as well as the breathtaking turquoise-colored Shey Phoksundo Lake, which is among the most beautiful lakes in Nepal. This trek will take you through stone villages, pine forests, and remote settlements that showcase the authentic lifestyle.
In a matter of weeks, the terrain will change from arid, high-altitude landscapes to richly forested mountain slopes. Wildlife that trekkers are likely to spot along this trail include Himalayan musk deer, blue sheep, snow leopards, and yaks feeding on grass. This trek will also allow trekkers to enjoy breathtaking views of majestic peaks such as Dhaulagiri. Other notable features along this trek include passes such as Numa La Pass and Baga La Pass, which provide trekkers with stunning views of the valleys and peaks.
The most suitable time to go on this trek is during spring or autumn when the climate is favorable, and the sky is clear. This is because, despite being located in a rain shadow area, the Dolpo region remains accessible throughout the year. The clear sky will allow trekkers to enjoy this trek to the fullest as they take in the breathtaking views at higher altitudes.
Highlights of the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek:
Welcome! To Kathmandu, Nepal. You will be welcomed by an Asian Heritage Travel representative with a nameplate upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, and you will then be taken to your hotel located within the busy tourist district known as Thamel in Kathmandu. You will see some of the highlights of the city while traveling to the hotel, including Pashupatinath Temple, Narayanhiti Royal Palace Museum, and the peaceful Garden of Dreams. Once you arrive at your hotel, a representative will meet you to discuss your itinerary and answer any questions you might have about it. After you check into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to explore the busy streets, cafés, and shops of Thamel or relax at your hotel.
Includes: Private transport and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites and Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Start your sightseeing tour by meeting your guide and climbing into your private vehicle. Your first stop will be Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you will walk among centuries-old royal palaces, intricate carvings on countless temples, and traditional courtyard-style buildings indicative of the venerable history of ancient Kathmandu.
Your next destination on your journey is Swayambhunath, commonly referred to as the Monkey Temple. Swayambhunath is a sacred stupa located atop a hill that contains both Buddhist and Hindu cultural influences, and provides fabulous views of the Kathmandu Valley and the distant peaks of the Himalayas.
The next stop on your tour is Pashupatinath Temple, one of the premier Hindu pilgrimage destinations in Southeast Asia. Pashupatinath Temple is built on the banks of the Bagmati River, where you will get a glimpse of the open-air cremation ceremonies and experience the spiritual practices surrounding the temple complex.
The last stop of the day is the incredible Boudhanath Stupa (another UNESCO World Heritage Site), which is one of the largest stupas in the world. The stupa dates back to approximately 600 A.D. and represents the center of Tibetan Buddhist culture, surrounded by local life, monasteries, and prayer wheels.
After an amazing day of cultural experiences, you will head back to your hotel to rest and relax.
Includes: Breakfast, private transport, an English-speaking tour guide, and an overnight accommodation at Hotel Yatri Suites & Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Today, we will have a one-hour flight from Kathmandu Airport to Nepalgunj. Nepalgunj is one of the most fascinating places near the Nepal-India Border, located in the West Terai region of Nepal. As we reach, you will check in at the respective hotel for a short rest. In the meantime, you will explore the local market and villages, meet the locals, and experience their way of life. You can even visit the Mahendra Park and the mini-zoo for some fun.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Airfare, an English-speaking guide, and an overnight accommodation at an available lodge in Nepalgunj.
After breakfast, we will take a flight to Juphal. Our trekking team will meet us there, and we shall begin our journey. The first part of our journey is easy and comfortable to walk. It shall take only 45 minutes to reach Kalagauda, and then 2 to 3 hours of walking through the beautiful terraced farm of the Thulo Bheri River to reach Dunai.
Dunai is the administrative headquarters of the Dolpa district, where there are governmental and private schools, colleges, and a police checkpost. Upon arrival, we will camp there and take some rest. If time allows, then we can climb up to Bon Gumba Monastery, where there is a breathtaking view of Dunai and the surrounding settlements.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Airfare, an English-speaking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at a Tented camp in Dunai.
As we set off on today’s trek, the route takes us by a series of streams, with the Bheri and Barbung rivers running parallel to our path. Crossing the suspension bridges, the soothing sound of the running waters will accompany you, with the scenic beauty all around.
Our trek takes us through thick pine forests, which adds to the real trekking experience. As we pass by Byasghar and Baijibara, you may have the opportunity to visit a Bon monastery on the way. As the altitude increases, the landscape gradually changes, with dry stone walls and cultivated land indicating your proximity to Tarakot.
As you reach Tarakot, a short trek takes us to Sandul Gompa, a place considered sacred and important. The landscape is rugged, with deep gorges and dry stone walls, which add to the beauty of the trek. In the past, this place has been an important center of trade, with the inhabitants practicing Tibetan Buddhism.
You may hear people talking in their local dialect, “Kaike,” which is spoken by people in this region only.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, a Porter, and an overnight accommodation at a Tented camp in Tarakot.
Once again, we start the day by walking on the trail by the side of the Bheri River. The trek today is expected to take us around 5 to 6 hours. The trail gradually opens up to a wide valley, which is by the side of the Bharbung Khola. After arriving at Laisicap, we cross a suspension bridge over the river.
Our journey continues with the river being our guide, now the Tarap Khola. The river flows by the side of towering cliffs, which are red and brown in color, stretching as far as the eye can see. Scattered villages and cultivated land provide a stark contrast to the rugged, barren landscape.
Walking by the side of another stream, we finally arrive at Khani Gaon, marking the end of today’s trek.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, a Porter, and an overnight accommodation at a Tented camp in Khani Gau.
As we leave Khanigaon behind, the trail will take us to Lihini. The duration of our trek for the day will be approximately 6 hours. The trail will be quite mixed, with some sections of stone steps followed by sections of barren terrain. The trail will be winding and twisting as we gradually ascend to an altitude of about 3,650 meters. Then, we will descend to Chukore.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, a Porter, and an overnight accommodation at a Tented camp in Chukore.
On this day, we leave Chukore and go downhill towards Narpani. If you look up, you will be able to see majestic mountain peaks in the distance, which will provide encouragement on the journey. The trail will also take you across streams and suspension bridges, which will provide you with a chance to really feel connected with nature.
On the way, you will also be able to see small caves, which provide a chance to do a bit of exploration. The trail will also take you through vast yak fields, which means you have reached Kamokharka.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, a Porter, and an overnight accommodation at a Tented camp in Kamokharka.
As we leave Kamokharka, the trail for the day will take us through picturesque countryside. This will be a beautiful day of walking through meadows and by little streams, over wooden bridges, on a relatively easy trail. After about 3 to 4 hours of walking, a long stretch of mani walls will come into view, indicating that we have arrived at Dho.
There are many places to see in Dho. This village, situated at such a high altitude, is studded with chortens and monasteries. Among these is the ancient Ribo Bumpa Monastery, which is 1,000 years old. This will be a cultural highlight of your trip. Another monastery to see here is the Drakmar Monastery, situated dramatically on red cliffs. This will be a picturesque contrast. With all these monasteries to see, it promises to be a great day.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, a Porter, and an overnight accommodation at a Tented camp in Dho.
As we leave Dho behind, we walk through traditional stone houses. Along the way, you can see a school in the village. The walk then begins to climb steadily upwards. This route will take us to the isolated village of Tok Kyu. In this village, you can see traditional architecture and a way of life that is untouched by modern civilization.
This region is said to be one of the highest human settlements in the world. As we proceed along this route, we will cross the Tarap Khola. The water flows quickly through a deep gorge. Along the way, we can see the peaceful monastery of Shering Gompa. This monastery is a residence for monks in this region.
The route continues with gentle ascents and then becomes more challenging as we reach Numa La Camp. After 4 to 5 hours of trekking, we reach Numa La Camp, where we bring our day to a close.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, a Porter, and an overnight accommodation at a Tented camp in Numa La Camp.
Today’s trek will become more challenging as we enter higher elevations. The climb, if steep, will also be equally rewarding. Once you get to the top, you will have a chance to see breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, as well as the vast expanse of the desert landscape stretching out before you, an experience that will leave a lasting impression.
After taking time to appreciate the views, as well as taking some memorable photographs, we will begin our descent towards Dajok Tang. Today’s trek will take us about 4-5 hours of actual walking.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, a Porter, and an overnight accommodation at a Tented camp in Baga La Camp.
On this day, we start by crossing a stream, followed by a steady slope to Poyn Chu Valley. As you proceed along this trail, you will finally reach Baga La, which is at an altitude of 5,190 meters. Due to this high altitude, you will get tired sooner, which is why today’s schedule is kept to 4 hours only.
The next part of the trail involves a gentle mountainside traverse as you proceed to go down to Sanu Bheri Valley.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, a Porter, and an overnight accommodation at a Tented camp in Sanu Bheri Valley.
As you begin your descent, you are greeted by expansive stretches of lush green meadows. The trek now takes you through dense forests, which stretch high above your head, providing you with shade as you continue your trek. Along the way, you pass by yak herds and a cliff ridge, which adds excitement to your trek.
This is a spectacular viewpoint, where you get to see the lively valley below. Additionally, you get to see the magnificent waterfall emerging from Phoksundo Lake. As you continue your trek, you pass by tall pine forests, followed by Ringmo, a small village in Tibet, which is known for its spectacular views of Phoksundo Lake.
The blue waters are extremely appealing after a long day’s trek. You may choose to spend your evening walking on the shores of the lake and capturing the beauty of the sunset. We will end the day near the magnificent Phoksundo Lake.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, a Porter, and an overnight accommodation at a Tented camp in Phoksundo Lake.
The next day’s trek is relatively easy, which allows you to ease some of the discomfort on your feet. The next day’s activities will begin with a detour to visit a nearby monastery that is Tibetan. This will allow you to appreciate the pristine nature of this emerald-colored lake. The most notable feature will be Tshowa Gompa, which is a 900-year-old Bon monastery situated on a small ridge overlooking the lake. The lake is sacred to Buddhists because of its turquoise color.
We will then proceed to continue our journey to Sulighad. Interestingly, a stream that comes directly from this lake will be our guide as we make our descent to the village of Renje.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, a Porter, and an overnight accommodation at a Tented camp in Renje.
Today, we leave the small village of Renje. With towering mountains surrounding us as a reminder of our journey’s success, we continue our journey through the lush fir and larch forests. On our way, the Sulighat River flows alongside us, its fresh water giving a sense of calmness and energy to our journey.
After a walk of about 6 hours, we finally arrive at Chepka, ending our journey for today.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at a Tented camp in Chepka.
On this day’s trek, we will be walking for approximately 6 hours. During this time, we will pass through picturesque villages, which will give us an insight into the life of the people here. This will be an easy and picturesque trek that will give us a view of the beauty of the lower lands.
There will be enough time to take your own pace while walking, especially after we reach Dunai, where our day’s trek will end.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at a Tented camp in Dunai.
After we have had our heavy breakfast, we will continue our journey along the trail. The trail is a visual treat as it takes you through a birch forest and large green meadows. Though the trail may be rocky at times, you will not even notice this as you continue your rewarding descent. The day’s trek will take 6-7 hours.
After Jhuphal, we will take a flight back to Nepalgunj, marking the end of your lower Dolpo trek.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Airfare, an English-speaking guide, a Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Nepalgunj.
We take a short and scenic flight to Kathmandu in the early morning, which takes approximately one hour. During the flight, you may enjoy the scenic views from the air and think about your successful trekking journey. After arriving in Kathmandu, we will transfer you to your hotel.
You have the rest of the afternoon to relax, roam around the colorful streets in the vicinity of Thamel, or look back on your memorable experiences by glancing at your photographs.
Includes: Breakfast, Airfare, an English-speaking guide, and an overnight stay at Yatri Suites and Spa or similar in Kathmandu.
Today is the last day of your journey. Three hours before your scheduled departure back to your home or another location, our representative will pick you up in a private vehicle after breakfast and drop you off at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport.
We hope you travel safely and look forward to seeing you again soon.
Includes: Breakfast and private Transport.
Getting to Nepal as an international visitor is easy with the availability of an easy-to-use Visa on Arrival service at Tribhuvan International Airport and almost all the land border crossings into Nepal. Upon arrival at the airport, you will complete the visa form, submit the necessary documents, pay the applicable visa fee online, and then you will be given your visa within a very short time.
With several different types of Nepali visas available for various duration periods, visitors have the choice of whether they want to stay for a few days or months; however, some nationalities must obtain their visa in advance of travelling, so you must check the current visa requirements.
Learn more about visa guidelines and requirements: Tourist Visa Information
Nepal offers a wide variety of accommodation to meet the varying requirements of travelers at every budget level and personal comfort preferences.
Luxury Accommodation
Enjoy the luxury and the comfort of a highly rated hotel, and are looking for a high-end experience. You will find many luxury hotels in Nepal with an array of modern conveniences, such as spa treatments, fine dining, beautiful locations, breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and individual attention from the staff. These types of hotels are perfect for people who want to relax, unwind, and experience luxurious facilities while traveling throughout Nepal.
Budget Accommodation
Travelers who want to experience Nepal without breaking the bank will be happy to know that there are also many inexpensive accommodation options, including guesthouses, boutique lodges, and homestays, which are all clean, friendly, and very good value. Budget accommodation allows a traveler to stay within their budget while experiencing the generosity of local hospitality.
We ensure that your accommodation matches your preference, whether you seek luxury or convenience.
Explore available accommodation categories: Accommodations in Nepal.
Nepal has a lot to offer with its incredible natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Travelling can also come with risks, which is why anyone visiting Nepal needs to consider purchasing travel insurance, particularly those involved in adventure activities or trekking, as well as those who will be travelling to remote areas of Nepal. A well-rounded insurance policy can provide peace of mind through protection against the following:
Many trekking routes in Nepal are over 3000 meters (9842 ft); therefore, your policy should specifically state that high altitude travel is part of your Insurance plan, as well as the option to be evacuated in the event of an emergency. Choosing the right policy will help you receive the best possible care in your time of need.
Find out more about travel insurance for Nepal: Travel Insurance in Nepal
For hikers traveling to the Nepalese Himalayas, it’s essential to have the correct trekking equipment. Depending on what elevation you’re at, the weather might change drastically, so it’s crucial to use and carry the proper clothing and equipment in order to enjoy a safe and comfortable trip.
If you don’t want to travel with your own equipment, there are plenty of places in Nepal where you can rent or purchase what you need (particularly in Thamel, Kathmandu’s main shopping district). There are also locations within the city where you can find stores that offer a variety of high-quality trekking apparel and equipment at very reasonable prices.
See the complete trekking gear guide: Trekking Gear
