Dolpo Trek

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For departure dates and price, please consult with our travel expert.

Trip Duration 16 Days
Group Size 2-12 people
Maximum Altitude Kagmara La Pass (5,115m)
Difficulty Grade Strenous
Start & End Point Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Best Seasons May-Oct

Trip Highlights of Dolpo Trek

  • Explore the Shey Phoksundo Lake and National Park in our Dolpo trek.
  • Get astounding views of diverse landscapes.
  • Learn cultural importance and religious practices in Nepal.
  • Cross-high passes like Cang Mara La Pass (5,115 m), Nagdala La Pass (5,353 m), and Tyonta Pass (5,220 m).
  • Explore the beautiful flora and fauna of Nepal.

Overview of Dolpo Trek

Dolpo Trek is an outstanding trek in a remote region of western Nepal. The entire district was not open to trekkers until 1990. You need a special permit for Trekking in the Dolpo region. Dolpo lies inside the Shey-Phoksundo National Park in the mid-western.

It is behind the Dhaulagiri massif, towards the Tibetan plateau. You will have an excellent opportunity to meet with the nomadic natives and their way of life. You can visit almost unaffected and unexplored places during the summer Dolpo trek.

It also allows for meeting the nomadic people and their lifestyles. The warm welcome given by the Dolpo region is overwhelming. You get a fascinating insight into the Tibetan way of life. This insight makes this an extraordinarily varied & unique trek.

The major attraction of the Dolpo trek is wildlife and an ancient Buddhist monastery. There are beautiful lakes and a vast array of natural vegetation. The trail of Dolpo Trekking begins with the flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla.

Then, the fantastic hiking begins. Dolpo Trek is a very famous hidden valley. In this trek, the trekkers get mesmerized by the charming villages, a land of mystery, scenery, peace, etc.

Shey Phoksundo National Park area is the inhabitant of various rare and endangered species. Wildlife includes snow leopards, blue sheep, ghoral, musk deer, and wolves. There are other wildlife and plant diversity.

Itinerary of Dolpo Trek

DAY
01
Day 01: Greetings at Kathmandu Airport,Transfer to your hotel

We will meet you at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport. We will transfer you to your hotel for the Dolpo trek. You have time to settle in and freshen up after your long flight. We will invite you to visit our office for a briefing about your program.

You will have a meeting with your trekking guide. Discuss the equipment needed for the Dolpo trekking. We will process the trekking permits. In this visit, we will help you check your equipment.

We will facilitate processing other necessary items such as National Park Permits, special permits, etc. If you arrive at night, we will have the same discussion the following day after breakfast.

Accommodation Hotel
Meals Dinner
Altitude Kathmandu (1,400m)
DAY
02
Day 02: A full day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu, the capital valley

The following day of your Dolpo trek, you will leave for a full-day sightseeing tour around Kathmandu Valley after breakfast. You can visit the sacred Pashupatinath Temple and Swyambhunath. They are ancient and mostly enlisted in UNESCO World Heritage sites.

You will visit the biggest Buddhist Stupa at Boudhnath. Kathmandu Durbar Square’s fine arts and historical architecture reflect the ancient Nepalese culture. On return to your hotel, you will have time to explore the local area. Have dinner, and stroll through the famous streets.

Accommodation Hotel
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Kathmandu (1,400m)
DAY
03
Day 03: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj flight

Today, we will take a 1-hour flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. We get a good view of the Himalayas to the north to start the Dolpo trek. Nepalgunj is a small town near the Indian border in the Terai region of Nepal. You can look around the Bageshwari Mandir, a temple dedicated to Kali.

Flight 50 min
Accommodation Hotel
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Nepalgunj (150m)
DAY
04
Day 04: Nepalgunj to Jumla by flight and trek to Gothichour

On the very morning, we take a flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla. We go over the Himalayan foothills, with views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks to the north. From Jumla, we cross the Tila Khola and Chaudabise Khola near their confluence.

Then, we climb gently to a fertile valley of rice terraces. The Dolpo trek trail continues through several villages. It passes through a forest of maple and walnut to a meadow. Beyond the field, the trail climbs to a rock cairn at Pattyata Lagna (2830m).

Then it descends into the magnificent alpine amphitheater. The trail descends past the project buildings at Gothichour to a stream at the bottom of the valley. Camping at night.

Multiple 20 min flight, 4-5 hrs trek
Accommodation Camp
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Gothichour (2,700m)
DAY
05
Day 05: Gothichour to Naphukana

Walk downstream through forests to a series of mills at Kuri Sangta. Trek follows the northern side of Tila Khola. It passes through fields of corn and potato. Then, it climbs through the fields of buckwheat, barley, and attractive meadows, passing Tibetan Mani walls on the way.

The Dolpo trek trail enters a forest of oaks, spruces, poplars, and maples. A short distance beyond Chotra (3010m) is the Tibetan settlement of Naphukana. The villagers keep large herds of yaks and horses — a campsite near the village.

Walking Day
Accommodation Camp
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Naphukana (3,000m)
DAY
06
Day 06: Naphukana- Mauria Lagna crossing to Balasa

The Dolpo trek trail becomes steeper as it climbs past the rocky fields of Rapati Chaur. The route reaches forests of oaks and birch trees tangled with Spanish moss. After crossing a side stream, the trail crosses the Churta/Bapila/Tila Khola. Then starts a climb through birch, oak, and rhododendrons forests.

Finally, reach Mauri Lagna’s” Honey Pass.” From the pass, there are views of the snowy peaks of Gutumba, Matatimba, and Bhalu Himal. The trail makes a few ups and downs and passes side valleys and fields of corn and potatoes. Beyond the ridge is Balasa, the best place for our camping.

Walking Day
Accommodation Camp
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Mauria Lagna (3,820m)
DAY
07
Day 07: Balasa to Hurikot

The Dolpo trek trail descends a stream and climbs to the ridge in a forest of walnut trees. We pass villages inhabited by blacksmiths and tailors. The Dolpo trek trail contours past the corn and potato fields and apple orchards to Hurikot. Climb gradually through lots of thorn bushes to the campsite.

Walking Day
Accommodation Camp
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Hurikot (2,650m)
DAY
08
Day 08: Hurikot to Kagmara Phedi

Pass Hurikot and its Bonpo Gompa. Reach to a sign proclaiming the entrance of Shey Phoksundo National Park. The trail stays high above the river to the confluence where the Jagdula Khola and Garpung Khola join to form the Bheri.

The valley narrows. The river becomes a series of waterfalls as the Dolpo trek trail climbs to a moraine at 3900m. Make a high camp in boulders at Kagmara Phedi. Overnight stay camping.

Walking Day
Accommodation Camp
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Kagmara Phedi (4,000m)
DAY
09
Day 09: Kagmara Phedi to Pungmo crossing Kagmara La

The panoramic views of the peaks are sensational throughout the way. Wildflowers are the hardy alpine species. It includes blue poppies, buttercups, mint, gentians, and puffballs. Climb alongside the Kagmara Glacier to the Kagmara La. Then descend about 900m along a stream to a campsite on pastures in the Pungmo valley. It is a fortress-like village with an atmospheric Bonpo monastery and apple orchards. Camping at night.

Walking Day
Accommodation Camp
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Pungmo (4,200m), Kagmara La (5,115m)
DAY
10
Day 10: Pungmo to Pungmo Gaon

The Dolpo trek trail now enters birch and juniper forests. You get an excellent view of Kanjirowa Peak on the way. You can see an amicable settlement of Tibetan villages with Yak herders. Spend your night in Pungmo Gaon.

Walking Day
Accommodation Camp
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Pungmo Gaon (3,050m)
DAY
11
Day 11: Pungmo Gaon to Phoksundo Lake

The Dolpo trek to Phoksundo Lake up the Suligaad is a short one. But it boasts a lot of varieties. There are lovely forested sections, dramatic Phoksundo Lake, and a tiny pocket of the unique Bonpo culture. The lake is within Shey Phoksundo National Park, established in 1981.

The lake and the trail are snowbound from mid-November to mid-May. You can see majestic views of the snowy peaks of Kanjirolba Kagmara and Batrasi Himal. Visit nearby villages and Ringbo Gompa.

Walking Day
Accommodation Camp
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Phoksundo Lake (3,600m)
DAY
12
Day 12: Rest day

Today is rest and acclimatization day on our Dolpo trek. Admire the beauty of this place. Have a majestic view of the snowy peaks known as Kanjiroba Kagmara and Batrasi Himal.

Accommodation Camp
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Phoksundo Lake (3,600m)
DAY
13
Day 13: Phoksundo Lake to Shyanta

From here on, we will trek downhill toward Shyanta. We will follow the Dolpo trek trail of Chepka and move along the rocky terrains. Explore the medicinal plants in this area. We will reach the beautiful village of Shyanta.

Walking Day 7-8 hrs
Accommodation Camp
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Shyanta (2,520m)
DAY
14
Day 14: Shyanta to Jhupal

Today, we march on a path lined with birch trees towards Jhupal via Sulighat. We have the most fantastic mountain views above us and Jhupal Village below from atop a ridge. While hiking this trail, we recommend being extremely cautious. After arriving in Jhupal, we can relax or spend the afternoon touring the bustling market town. Sleep in Jhupal tonight.

Walking Day 7-8 hrs
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Jhupal (2,494m)
DAY
15
Day 15: Fly to Nepalgunj, fly to Kathmandu

We travel to Nepalgunj on the first available flight from Jhupal. After arriving in Nepalgunj, we take the next flight back to Kathmandu. When we get to Kathmandu, someone will take us to our accommodation. There is nothing to do. Organize the images and exchange emails with travel partners.

We’ll have a farewell meal hosted by Above the Himalaya to commemorate the success of our Dolpo trek trip. Spend the night in Kathmandu.

Flight 45 min, 45 min
Accommodation Hotel
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Kathmandu (1,400m)
DAY
16
Day 16: Final departure

Your 16-day Dolpo trek trip successfully ends today. So, you’ll be returning home after a long, exhausting, and excellent trek. Today, according to your scheduled flight, we’ll drive you to the Tribhuwan International Airport.

Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Fixed Departure Dates

Note: We can run a trip for solo travelers, couple, friends and family with children. Our private trips are running everyday. If you are looking for a group joining trip please contact us.

Includes/Excludes

What's Included?
  • Airport / Hotel / Airport transfers by private vehicle.
  • Four nights accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin sharing bed and breakfast basis.
  • Guided Tour of Kathmandu City with expert tour guide and private vehicle
  • Government license holder experienced, trekking guide (trained in Wilderness First Aid& altitude sickness) and porters (1 porter for between 2 trekkers basis) with their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, accidental insurance, clothing, and medicine.
  • Round Trip flight ticket for Kathmandu Nepalgunj Kathmandu.
  • Flight Ticket from Nepalgunj to Jumla back to Nepalgunj from Jhupal.
  • All meals during trekking three meals a day (Breakfasts, Lunches, and Dinners, Tea and coffee).
  • Twin sharing Lodges, Guesthouse accommodations during the trekking on local tea houses.
  • Permit for Dolpo Trek.
  • Trekker’s information management system (TIMS) card.
  • Group medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
  • Above the Himalaya duffel bag. ( If you need, please let us know before you book the trip and remind us in our pre-meeting at our office)
  • Comprehensive pre-departure information and trip dossiers
  • Above the Himalaya Gifts (T-shirt for Gents & Pashmina shawl for Ladies, Trekking certificates)
  • Welcome/Farewell Nepali Dinner in Kathmandu
  • All necessary paper works, office Service charges, and all Government Taxes
What's Excluded?
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Nepal entry visa fee, you can get a Nepal visa upon arrival in the Airport.
  • International Airfare/Airport tax, City tour Sightseeing entry fees.
  • Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks, hot water, hot and cold showers.
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, sweets, snacks, beverages and bar bills, camera battery charging.
  • Travel Insurance (Essential – Should include emergency evacuation coverage while trekking up to 5500+ meters).
  • Personal trekking gears
  • Tips for tour/ trekking staffs and driver
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section.

Essential Information - Dolpo Trek

Dolpo Trek offers the best wildlife viewing

Nepal Dolpo trek route goes through the ancient Tibetan salt caravan trail. The trail goes high passes like Numa La (5190m) & Baga La (5070m), –La (4800m), and other very distant areas of the country. You will experience the high-altitude tundra, rock, and microclimate of Lower Dolpo. You will feel the cold air of the glaciers of Kanjiroba in the Phoksundo.

The unbounded diversity of this area makes it a destination to visit over and over again. Dolpo Trek Himalayas offer various landscapes, cultures, and great people. Time has stood still here for centuries as inhabitants of Tibetan stock continue to live. They cultivate and trade the way they have done for hundreds of years.

The people here are charming by nature. They are of Tibetan descent. They follow the pre-Buddhist Bon religion. In summer, the caravans of Yaks and sheep run through this valley. You are on a trade route through the Himalayas. The Oscar-nominated Film

‘Caravan’ showcased the Dolpo trek region of Nepal in all its integrity and mystical experience. The best time for the Dolpo trek here is from the end of the monsoon season, from September to November. It becomes more and more fascinating with every time you return.

Best Time for Dolpo trek

The best time for the Dolpo trek is in the autumn (September–December). If we choose, October and November are best. During this time, the skies are more transparent, and almost no rain, so the visibility is high. Another best time is to visit in the Spring season(March-May). This season is the flower blooming season also. So, enjoy the rhododendron flowers along the trail.

In your Everest trekking this season, you can enjoy the clear views of the spectacular peaks. Monsoon is not a good time to visit as the visibility is poor, and flights get canceled and delayed a lot. Winter is okay for the Dolpo trek in the lower part. The upper part is where the snowblocks occur. It is snowing and very cold, and high passes.

What to pack for your Dolpo trek

The Dolpo trek is challenging, so you need the proper equipment to succeed on this trip.

You will sleep in the tea house and basic homestay at Dolpo Trek. You will eat there, so you need to carry your belongings, which are enough for the cold. Below are some suggested items to take with you while you Dolpo trekking.

  • Walking boots are waterproof and have ankle support.
  • Trainer or casual shoes you can use after a day trek.
  • Hiking Shorts (3): Quick drying type, not cotton!
  • Trekking Pants (3), preferably zip on/off at the knees so you can use them as shorts also.
  • Loose, casual trousers for trekking
  • Thermal wear for colder areas
  • Lightweight underwear – Capilene or other synthetic.
  • Cotton pants or (loose jeans/khakis).
  • T-shirts: Cotton for lower altitude walking. The synthetic is good above 2500m.
  • Thermal Underwear: Synthetic polypropylene
  • Waterproof Jacket. Quality waterproof clothing is essential. We recommend a proofed nylon or Gore-Tex jacket.
  • Fleece jacket or pullover.
  • Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (optional).
  • Goretex or warm jacket for winter trekking. Bring a down jacket.
  • women sports bras, Synthetic
  • Strong rucksack or large holdall to be carried by porters
  • Daysack to personally carry valuables such as passport, cash, camera, and travel documents.
  • Plastic bags or stuff sacks to store
  • Plug adapter 2 round pin
  • Trail Map/Guidebook
  • Journal & Pen, Pencils, and small notebooks
  • Extra contacts or glasses
  • Quick-drying towel (medium-sized)
  • Toothbrush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
  • Multipurpose soap/handwash
  • Deodorants
  • Nail clippers
  • Face and body moisturizer
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Small mirror
  • Wet wipes
  • Sanitizers
  • Water purification tablets or iodine
  • Refillable Water bottles
  • Wool or fleece hat, or balaclava
  • Hat or cap for sun protection while trekking
  • Sunglasses or goggles
  • Warm gloves
  • Towel
  • Sun lotion
  • Lip balm
  • Sunglasses protect from day sunlight.
  • The sleeping bag must have a -20 degrees Celcius rating. You can also get a sleeping bag liner.
  • Extra pairs of T-shirts and also shorts.
  • Trekking pole
  • Camera
  • Flashlight and battery
  • First aid kit (with moleskin for blisters)

Reviews on Dolpo Trek

5.0

Star Star Star Star Star
Based on 300+ Reviews


Profile
Alex Morse
UK
Best Lower Dolpo trek
Star Star Star Star Star

We had the best time in the Dolpo trek. We have visited the lower Dolpo area and Shey Pholsundo Lake. We did an essential tea house trek. It was much easier than Camping as we had one guide and one porter. We slept at the local house in some places, which was a fantastic experience.
Thank you, Above the Himalaya trekking, for the best Dolpo trekking.

Alex Morse

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