19 Days-Lower Dolpo Trek – 2026
The Lower Dolpo Trek is one of the best unknown secret wonder of Nepal. It lies in the remote Western Himalayan region of Nepal. This journey will disconnect you from the hustle and bustle of city life. Get you to a world where age-old heritage and customs coexist with pristine. While it is less pristine compare to Upper Dolpo but it consist of both adventure and tranquility.
The journey starts with a picturesque flight to Juphal through Nepalgunj. Upon reaching the trail, the path takes you along the green pine woodlands, deep ravines and stunning high-altitude scenery . The greatest and pleasant moment of this trek is visiting Shey Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake of Nepal. You cannot forget this sight in your life. The beautiful turquoise lake is set against the mountains cover with snow.
On this overwhelming adventure trek in Shey Phoksundo National Park, you can spot some rare animal species. They are Himalayan Blue Sheep, Musk Deer, Snow Leopard and Himalayan Griffons. This indicates the diversity in the flora and fauna in the region. In addition, the old Bon religion and Tibetan Buddhism is the highlight of this trek. People of this region follow this tradition to this day. You will cross through several villages like Rigmo and Chhepka, witnessing caravans and the warmth and hospitality of the local inhabitants.
Embarking on this adventurous trek, you have to pass two high mountain passes: Numa La (5, 190 m) and Baga La (5, 170 m). That’s why, it is recommend for you to be in good physical and mental health to avoid HAPE and HACE, while at high altitude.
The trekking period for this trek takes about 16 to 20 days. Due to its remoteness and wilderness, a few tourists are seen on the trail. So, if you are planning to immerse yourself in the spirit of the Himalayas, the Lower Dolpo Trek is a safe and unforgettable journey for you.
To ensure your safety in the mountains and for the proper planning of your trip, like logistics, transportation, permits, and guides. Please book with our company, Plan Holidays Treks and Expeditions.
Highlights
- Remote Wilderness: Experience the beauty of unspoiled trails surrounded by alpine meadows and deep valleys in Shey Phoksundo National Park.
- Phoksundo Lake: Marvel at the beautiful turquoise lake at 3, 611m, surrounded by cliff and forest.
- High Passes: Numa La (5, 190m) and Baga La (5, 070m) are the passes from where the pictures of Dhaulagiri and other Tibetan peaks can be taken.
- Shey Gompa: Ancient Bonpo monastery at 4, 500m, a spiritual highlight amid crystal mountain caves
- Wildlife Spotting: Blue sheep, snow leopard, musk deer in different types of ecosystems ranging from pine woods to arid plateaus.
- Bon Culture: Tibetan-influenced villages with yak herders, polyandry traditions, and stone huts.
- Varied Terrain: Gorge, river, forest changing to barren high-elevation landscapes.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (KTM)
Day 2: Kathmandu (Trek Preparation day)
Day 3: Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
Day 4: Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,500 m), Trek to Dunai (2,100 m)
Day 5: Dunai (2,100 m) to Tarakot (2,350 m)
Day 6: Tarakot (2,350 m) to Laina Odar (3,300 m)
Day 7: Laina Odar (3,300 m) to Toltol (3,700 m)
Day 8: Toltol (3,700 m) to Dho Tarap (4,100 m)
Day 9: Dho Tarap (4,100 m) – Acclimatization Day
Day 10: Dho Tarap (4,100 m) to Base of Num La Pass South (4,450 m)
Day 11: Num La Pass (5,310 m) to Danigar (4,350 m)
Day 12: Danigar (4,350 m) to Yak Kharka (4,080 m) Via Baga La Pass (5,165 m)
Day 13: Yak Kharka (4,080 m) to Ringmo (3,620 m)
Day 14: Ringmo (3,620 m) – Explore Phoksundo Lake
Day 15: Ringmo (3,620 m) to Chekpa (2,670 m)
Day 16: Chekpa (2,670 m) to Juphal (2,500 m)
Day 17: Juphal to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj
Day 18: Free Day in Kathmandu
Day 19: Departure from Kathmandu
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu (KTM)
On your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our office staff will greet you and welcome you with a garland. They will also assist you with baggage and drive you to your hotel for check in and relaxation. If you are early in the afternoon, you can explore the vibrant Thamel area, buy your last minute belongings and enjoy the local food.
Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Accommodation: Hotel
Duration: Flight day
Meals: Dinner
Kathmandu (Trek Preparation day)
This day in Kathmandu valley is considered a trek preparation day. You can buy your trek essentials, which you will need during the trek. In the morning after breakfast, you will meet your trek guide, where he will highlight trek information such as permits, essential gear and basic tips for the journey. During, afternoon you can go sightseeing in kathmandu durbar square and soak yourself in the vibrant energy of this place.
Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Accommodation: Hotel
Duration: Full day
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
This morning, our trek guide will come to pick you up from the hotel and drive you to the domestic airport for the flight to Nepalgunj. Mostly, the flight to this sector is scheduled in the morning. You have the whole day to stroll around Nepalgunj. This city is situated in the Terai lowland, where it shares the border with India. Here, one can experience the significant cultural difference compared to the mountain life ahead. After reaching your destination, settle into your hotel, relax or maybe wander through the streets for the today’s dinner. Note: The flight to Juphal tomorrow is based on the weather conditions.
Altitude: ~150 m / 492 ft
Accommodation: Hotel
Duration: Flight ~1 hour
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,500 m), Trek to Dunai (2,100 m)
Depending on the weather condition, we will catch a quick flight to Juphal airstrip ( about 45 min). At the airport, you will meet your porters and other team members, where you will eat your snacks. Prepare yourself for the day first in the trail. Today path will heading up from the Thulo Beri valley through farm field to Kalagaunda village. Along the way you can see the old-school water mill, in the river side to Dunai.
Distance covered: ~8 km
Altitude gain/loss: Descent to 2,100 m / 6,890 ft
Accommodation: Lodge
Duration: 3-4 hours trek
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Dunai (2,100 m) to Tarakot (2,350 m)
Today after having breakfast in the morning, you will follow the Thulo Bheri riverbank. As you ascend through this trail you will admire the majestic beauty of this region. On the trail you will cross over, deep gorges, suspension bridges and isolated settlements. After a long day of walking you will stay in Tarakot for the night, you can wander the village’s old fortress ruins from an ancient kingdom.
Distance covered: ~9 km
Altitude gain: +250 m / 820 ft
Accommodation: Lodge
Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Tarakot (2,350 m) to Laina Odar (3,300 m)
In the morning after having breakfast at Tarakot, we will start our trek along the bank of Bheri river. After some time on the trail, you will climb gently through buck wheat terraces, where you will walk high above the water. Then descend down to cross the long suspension bridge at Laisicap, where we will show our permits at the police checkpost. From that point on we follow the Tarap Khola and head north to Khanigaon village, winding through narrow forests. On the way to Laina odor, you will catch a glimpse of mesmerizing Churen Himal peaks, especially massive Putha Hiunchuli.
Distance covered: ~10 km
Altitude gain: +950 m / 3,117 ft
Accommodation: Lodge/tent
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Laina Odar (3,300 m) to Toltol (3,700 m)
Today, after breakfast, the trek starts at laina Odar, where the trail is a steep climb through the narrow gorge of Tarap River. While this kind of trail drains your energy, the exciting view of george, landscapes and mountains will refresh you. There might be a chance to spot wild animals and birds. The trail becomes wider and more pleasant as we move ahead. On the way we will cross small streams and probably trek for a couple of hours. Then, eventually we will reach Toltol. This place is the winter habitat for the people of Upper Dolpo.
Distance covered: ~8 km
Altitude gain: +400 m / 1,312 ft
Accommodation: Basic lodge
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Toltol (3,700 m) to Dho Tarap (4,100 m)
In the morning after having breakfast, we prepared for today’s trek from Totol. The trail begins with a steady climb up to Charkala then descends down the valley side through a narrow gorge. After this point, we trek through wildflower meadows, juniper bushes and barren Himalayan desert to reach Dho Tarap. Today’s trek highlights include snow-capped mountains and Tibetan traditions, along with the natural beauty of this region.
Distance covered: ~12 km
Altitude gain: +400 m / 1,312 ft
Accommodation: Lodge
Duration: 7-8 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Dho Tarap (4,100 m) - Acclimatization Day
At this high-altitude base, a rest day is crucial for acclimatization and altitude sickness prevention. Therefore, today’s plan is to understand the timeless culture of Dolpo. In which we learn and explore the unique clothing, stone houses, mani walls, Bon Po/Nyingmapa traditions. Also visit the Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, barley fields and take part in the short hikes to the nearby hills. Where, the beautiful sunset views over the plateau and have a conversation with the friendly locals. Later, spend some relaxing time in your guesthouse.
Distance covered: Minimal
Altitude: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft
Accommodation: Lodge
Duration: Rest day
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Dho Tarap (4,100 m) to Base of Num La Pass South (4,450 m)
Starting from Dho Tarap, you will follow the upper Tarap Valley along the river where it is surrounded by rich grasslands and blossoming wildflowers. The Tarap Chu River offers an exceptionally clean and refreshing atmosphere. After reaching Tokyu village, visit its Chiba sect Buddhist monastery which is quite important. Then, take a more difficult and steeper way up to Num La Base Camp for an overnight stay. (Note: The day after the cross the pass is the most challenging part of the trek in terms of time and effort. It will probably be a very sweaty and tiring walk of about 7 hours with breathtaking mountain scenery all around.)
Distance covered: ~10 km
Altitude gain: +350 m / 1,148 ft
Accommodation: Tent camp
Duration: 6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Num La Pass (5,310 m) to Danigar (4,350 m)
Num La Pass is the highest mountain pass in the trekking route and also the most difficult one, which you will cross today. A steep ascent from the base camp to the snow-covered Num La Pass (5, 190 m), the highest point of the trek, is just the beginning. You will be rewarded with magnificent 360° views of the Dhaulagiri peaks, the vast landscapes, and the Dolpo plateau. After spending some time in the pass descending, you will encounter some difficult downhill. This section leads to Pelung Tang and Danigar where you will stop to rest and get ready for tomorrow’s Baga La.
Distance covered: ~10 km
Altitude gain/loss: +740 m ascent / -1,580 m descent
Accommodation: Basic lodge
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Danigar (4,350 m) to Yak Kharka (4,080 m) Via Baga La Pass (5,165 m)
Having eaten your breakfast and done a little warm-up, you will be able to conquer Baga La Pass (5, 165 m) a little easier than the day before. The descent will offer the most beautiful views of the inner Dolpo and the top of the pass will reveal the splendid peaks of Dhaulagiri and Kanjirowa. Take some pictures, admire the scenery, and then follow the path leading down to camp at Yak Kharka.
Distance covered: ~12 km
Altitude gain/loss: +815 m ascent / -1,145 m descent
Accommodation: Tent/lodge
Duration: 7-8 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Yak Kharka (4,080 m) to Ringmo (3,620 m)
After a stunning sunrise and breakfast, descend from Yak Kharka through lush pine, oak, juniper, and cypress forests, crossing streams and pastures with towering cliffs and waterfall views. Arrive at traditional Tibetan-style Ringmo village, a famed Bon settlement then take a short walk to the turquoise Phoksundo Lake for overnight by the lakeside.
The day begins with a breathtaking sunrise and breakfast. Then, from Yak Kharka, you will walk down through rich pine, oak, juniper, and cypress forests, over streams and meadows with cliffs and waterfalls along the way. You will reach the traditional Tibetan-style Ringmo village. It is the most famous Bon settlement. Afterward we go for a short walking to the turquoise Phoksundo Lake. Overnight by the lakeside.
Distance covered: ~10 km
Altitude loss: -460 m / 1,509 ft
Accommodation: Lodge
Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Ringmo (3,620 m) - Explore Phoksundo Lake
Wake up very early for a short ridgeline hike to see sunrise over the intensely blue Phoksundo Lake and the surrounding mountains. Besides that, it is good to spend the day enjoying this natural wonder from the different parts of it. One of the ways to get the most wonderful view of this place is to take the 1.5-hour trek from Ringmo to the viewpoint.
Distance covered: Short hikes ~5 km
Altitude: 3,620 m / 11,877 ft
Accommodation: Lodge
Duration: Exploration day
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Ringmo (3,620 m) to Chekpa (2,670 m)
Today’s trek trail has a very steep descent through gorges, birch forests, and along the river to the Chekpa valley. After breakfast, you will first follow the riverside trail then after that, take the uphill trail for about an hour. Then it will take you to a ridge with a spectacular view of the Phoksundo Lake. From there, come down to Chunuwar through the lush birch and pine forests. The trail is getting gentle ups and downs beside the river where the pastures have wildflowers and Himalayan birds and medicinal herbs. Following the path it will take you through small settlements and you will end up in Chekpa for your tented camp.
Distance covered: ~19 km
Altitude loss: -950 m / 3,117 ft
Accommodation: Lodge
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Chekpa (2,670 m) to Juphal (2,500 m)
Begin your adventure with a gentle walk from Sulighat village. Through birch forests and terraced farmlands, with ridge-top views of Juphal and its airstrip as your scenic reward. After passing the checkpoint at Shey Phoksundo National Park, crossing a suspension bridge over Dhim Khola. you will reach the most relaxed part of the trek where you will spend 2 hours walking through barley/wheat fields bordered by walnut, peach, and apricot trees culminating in a short uphill to Juphal. Make sure to be vigilant in steep sunlit sections and always be near your guide; the late afternoon is the best time to arrive and take some rest.
Distance covered: ~10 km
Altitude loss: -170 m / 558 ft
Accommodation: Lodge
Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Juphal to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj
Board the first morning flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj (about 45 minutes), have some time for a casual stroll around the town and in the afternoon get on a flight back to Kathmandu (1 hour). There will be a driver waiting to pick you up from the airport and take you to your hotel shortly. You can spend your free time shopping for souvenirs in Thamel, soaking up the nightlife or reminiscing about the trek.
Duration: Flights ~2 hours total
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Free Day in Kathmandu
After the trek, enjoy a full leisure day to rejuvenate yourself. Thamel is a great place to shop for souvenirs such as pashmina shawls, singing bowls, or thangka paintings. Alternatively, you can visit the famous sites like Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) known for giving a panoramic city view and where one can also engage in prayer wheel spinning. Pashupatinath Temple is the place to witness Hindu cremation ceremonies by the Bagmati River and at Boudhanath Stupa, one can observe Tibetan pilgrims circling the large mandala dome. You can also go for a relaxing spa session, dine on authentic Newari cuisine in a rooftop café, or just spend time watching the life and energy of Kathmandu which is quite suitable for personal reflection or last-minute adventures.
Accommodation: Hotel
Duration: Free
Meals: Breakfast
Departure from Kathmandu
Have a last breakfast with the team and shortly afterward our representative will come to pick you up from your hotel and take you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for your departure. Fly back home or continue on your journey with unforgettable memories of the thrilling Lower Dolpo trek.
Meals: Breakfast
Cost
- All your pickups and drops between the airport and hotels in a private vehicle.
- Shared rooms in Kathmandu and cozy local tea houses or Camping while you’re trekking in the mountains.
- You’ll get breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day during the trek.
- A friendly local guide and porters to lead the way, plus full insurance and fair pay for all our staff.
- We take care of your special trekking permits for Shey Phoksundo National Park and all local taxes.
- All the domestic flights needed for the trip are included.
- You’ll get a Planholidays Trek & Expedition Trek kit duffle bag to use.
- A special farewell dinner in Kathmandu once the trek is finished.
- Your international flights, travel and medical insurance, and the fee for your Nepal entry visa.
- Any extra hotel nights needed in Nepalgunj due to bad weather or if you return to Kathmandu early.
- Personal porters (we suggest one porter for every two trekkers) or a riding horse for the trail.
- Alcohol, bottled water, sodas, and extra snacks.
- A small “thank you” (gratitude) for your guide and porters.
Reviews
Simply put “WOW”.
Simply put “WOW”. I have never met more responsible people in my life. They made sure every step of the way was taken care of from the drivers, tour guides, trek guides, porters and hotel accommodations. I highly recommend this company for its hard working, responsible and friendly people. The people make a company. Special thanks to: Anuja “the planner”, Chitiz & Ashmir “the ultimate trekking guides” and finally Robin “the enthusiastic jungle bird watcher”.
Nick Devincenzo
San Diego, CaliforniaPlan Holidays did a fantastic job on our whole trip!
Plan Holidays did a fantastic job on our whole trip! We did the trip that included time in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan National Park and a 5-day trek around Annapurna. From the moment we stepped off the plane, we had guides showing us around and everything was perfectly planned for us. Maila, our trekking guide was amazing and had so much knowledge! It was a great trip!
Autumn Wonderlich
Boston, MassachusettsIncredibly well organized
This company was amazing. Incredibly well organized. I felt safe and spoiled. Our airport transports were always early and waiting for us. All of our reservations for our accommodations and busses were perfect. The temple tour we took was super fun and educational. Some of our luggage got stuck in our layover country and between this travel agency and our hotel they were able to get it for us and deliver it the next day. We also had a 10month old traveling with us and they made sure that our accommodation and travel plans were safe for him. During our 5 days of trekking, we had THE BEST guide/sherpa. I would positively let them plan another trip for us. Thank you!!!!
Email: https://facebook.com/karenk2000
Karen Graves
CaliforniaA wonderful trip
Thank you so much!!!!
We had a wonderful trip!!! And you were always there to help or guide us as needed! I hope we can have fun together again!!!!!
Janet Spencer
West Jordan, UtahNice trip to Nepal
Nice trip in Nepal organized by Plan Holidays Travel! Guide and Porter were great.
Michael Worcestar
Plan Holidays is the best company
Plan Holidays is the best company with wonderful staff members and Guide was incredible an genuinely cared for our welfare. It was such a pleasure to meet all the friendly and humorous people of Nepal. All of my thanks to Managing Director Mr. Kala Dhar Baral and the professional team members of Plan Holidays.
Samuel idas
Great Job
Plan Holidays did a great job on the organization of this wonderful journey! We all had a great time, it was such a pleasure to meet all the friendly and humorous people of Nepal.
Aleksandra Perr/Peter Babivskiy
I had a wonderful experience
I recently booked a tour with Plan Holidays, and I had a wonderful experience. Anuja scheduled the tour, and it was comforting to have our trip covered without any concerns. Our guide Shiva took us through Kathmandu, and showed all us the highlights of the city and provided us with the cultural and historical background. We also did the Poon Hill Trek with guides Chitiz and Ashmir, who provided a peaceful hike through the Himalayas. On our last two days, we spent time in Chitwan National Park, where our guide, Robin, took us on adventures where we saw crocodiles and rhinos.
The entire package was affordable, and our guides met our every need; they went out of their way for us on many occasions. It was comforting to get off the bus and see our guides waiting for us with our name tags. I would highly encourage anyone to book a trip through this company. I promise that you will have an amazing experience–five stars!
Brendan Praniewicz
San Diego, California