Lower Dolpo Wilderness and High Passes Trek
- 18 days
- moderate
- Up to 12
- May to September
We guide an 18-day exploratory route through western Nepal's remote Lower Dolpo, crossing high passes and visiting Phoksundo Lake.
At a glance
Trip overview
Our 18-day expedition into the Lower Dolpo region of western Nepal takes us through some of the most isolated and rugged terrain in the Himalaya. We navigate high barren passes, deep river gorges, and remote settlements influenced heavily by ancient Tibetan culture and the pre-Buddhist Bon religion. This route remains largely untouched by mass tourism, offering a raw wilderness experience far removed from the busier teahouse corridors of the Annapurna or Everest regions.
This trek suits experienced hikers with a strong tolerance for rustic conditions and strenuous physical demands. We traverse multiple high altitude passes, including Numa La at 5318 m and Baga La at 5190 m, requiring proper acclimatization and consistent physical stamina. The rewards are distinct: sweeping views of barren mineral-hued mountains, nomadic communities, and the crystalline turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake at 3733 m.
We operate this journey with a fully supported team of guides, cooks, and porters, utilizing tented camps for much of the trek. Our daily progression balances altitude gain with adequate rest, though participants must be prepared for cold weather, basic amenities, and unpredictable mountain weather patterns in the Trans-Himalayan rain shadow.
Why this trek
Trip highlights
Phoksundo Lake
We spend time beside the deep turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake, nestled at 3733 m inside Shey Phoksundo National Park.
Numa La Pass
We cross the demanding Numa La pass at 5318 m, offering sweeping vistas across the rugged Dolpo landscape.
Remote Tented Camping
We sleep under canvas in remote valleys far from permanent settlements, supported by our camp kitchen crew.
Ancient Bon Culture
We encounter traditional villages in Dho Tarap where residents preserve ancient Tibetan dialects and Bon spiritual practices.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Meals: B
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Meals: B
We welcome our team members upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Our lead staff conducts a pre-trip briefing to review the upcoming schedule and verify your trekking equipment.
Day 2
Kathmandu Sightseeing and Preparation
Meals: B / L / D
Day 2
Kathmandu Sightseeing and Preparation
Meals: B / L / D
We spend the day in Kathmandu completing final permit formalities and checking gear lists. You also have time to explore cultural landmarks around the capital valley.
Day 3
Flight Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
Meals: B / L / D
Day 3
Flight Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
Meals: B / L / D
We board a short afternoon flight south to Nepalgunj, a bustling lowland city near the Indian border that serves as our staging point for western mountain flights.
Day 4
Flight Nepalgunj to Juphal and Walk to Dunai
Meals: B / L / D
Day 4
Flight Nepalgunj to Juphal and Walk to Dunai
Meals: B / L / D
We take an early morning mountain flight to the airstrip at Juphal (2475 m). After meeting our local support crew, we begin walking downhill along the Modi Khola towards our first night in Dunai (2140 m) over approximately 2.5 hours.
Day 5
Dunai to Lingdo
Meals: B / L / D
Day 5
Dunai to Lingdo
Meals: B / L / D
The trail leads us northward along the Thuli Bheri River, passing small farming hamlets and suspension bridges. We reach Lingdo (2391 m) after about 5 hours of steady walking.
Day 6
Lingdo to Laina Odar
Meals: B / L / D
Day 6
Lingdo to Laina Odar
Meals: B / L / D
We climb gradually away from the river valley, entering narrower gorges and forested tracks. After 6 hours on the trail, we arrive at our campsite near Laina Odar (3370 m).
Day 7
Laina Odar to Nawarpani
Meals: B / L / D
Day 7
Laina Odar to Nawarpani
Meals: B / L / D
A shorter 4-hour trek brings us through rugged terrain to Nawarpani (3475 m). We gain elevation steadily while adjusting to the thinner mountain air.
Day 8
Nawarpani to Sisaul
Meals: B / L / D
Day 8
Nawarpani to Sisaul
Meals: B / L / D
We continue climbing through arid landscapes characteristic of the Trans-Himalaya, reaching Sisaul (3750 m) after roughly 3.5 hours of walking.
Day 9
Sisaul to Dho Tarap
Meals: B / L / D
Day 9
Sisaul to Dho Tarap
Meals: B / L / D
We approach the traditional settlement of Dho Tarap (4080 m) through wide open valleys after a 4-hour walk. This village features stone houses and inhabitants practicing traditional agriculture and animal husbandry.
Day 10
Dho Tarap to Numa La Base Camp
Meals: B / L / D
Day 10
Dho Tarap to Numa La Base Camp
Meals: B / L / D
We leave Dho Tarap behind and climb steadily toward the foot of our first major pass. We set up camp at Numa La Base Camp (4440 m) after a 3.5-hour trek.
Day 11
Numa La Base Camp to Danigar via Numa La Pass
Meals: B / L / D
Day 11
Numa La Base Camp to Danigar via Numa La Pass
Meals: B / L / D
Today presents our first major physical challenge as we ascend to the crest of Numa La (5318 m). After taking in the panoramic views, we descend into the valley to reach our campsite at Danigar (4631 m) after roughly 6 hours.
Day 12
Danigar to Yak Kharka via Baga La Pass
Meals: B / L / D
Day 12
Danigar to Yak Kharka via Baga La Pass
Meals: B / L / D
We tackle our second high crossing of the trek, ascending over the Baga La pass (5190 m). Following a careful descent, we pitch our tents at Yak Kharka (3982 m) after a 6-hour day.
Day 13
Yak Kharka to Ringmo and Phoksundo Lake
Meals: B / L / D
Day 13
Yak Kharka to Ringmo and Phoksundo Lake
Meals: B / L / D
A short 2.5-hour walk brings us down to the shores of Phoksundo Lake at Ringmo (3733 m). We spend the afternoon exploring the pristine lakeside and nearby traditional village.
Day 14
Phoksundo Lake to Chhepka via Rechi
Meals: B / L / D
Day 14
Phoksundo Lake to Chhepka via Rechi
Meals: B / L / D
We retrace our steps down along the Phoksundo Khola, passing through Rechi (2940 m) and descending through forested gorges to reach Chhepka (2838 m) after 7 hours.
Day 15
Chhepka to Juphal
Meals: B / L / D
Day 15
Chhepka to Juphal
Meals: B / L / D
Our final day of trekking takes us back along the river valley to the airstrip at Juphal (2475 m) in about 6 hours, completing our mountain circuit.
Day 16
Flight Juphal to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu
Meals: B / L / D
Day 16
Flight Juphal to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu
Meals: B / L / D
We catch an early morning flight from Juphal back to Nepalgunj, connecting onward to Kathmandu where we transfer you back to your hotel.
Day 17
Leisure Day in Kathmandu
Meals: B / L / D
Day 17
Leisure Day in Kathmandu
Meals: B / L / D
Enjoy a free day in Kathmandu to rest, shop for souvenirs, or independently explore the historic alleyways of Thamel and Durbar Square.
Day 18
Final Departure
Meals: B
Day 18
Final Departure
Meals: B
Our representative escorts you to Tribhuwan International Airport for your international departure flight home.
Inclusions
What’s included
Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off by private vehicle
- Four nights 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
- Domestic flights (Kathmandu - Nepalgunj - Juphal and return)
- Full board meals prepared by our camp cook during the trek
- Twin-share tented accommodation and camping equipment
- Experienced Government-licensed guide and required porters
- Special restricted area trekking permit and national park entry fees
- First aid medical kit and pulse oximeter
Not included
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude emergency rescue
- Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu
- Hot showers, bottled drinks, and personal expenses during the trek
- Tips for guide, porters, and driver
Before you go
Good to know
Altitude & Acclimatisation
This trek crosses multiple passes above 5000 m, with Numa La reaching 5318 m. Our itinerary is paced to allow gradual ascent, but participants must monitor themselves for symptoms of acute mountain sickness.
Our guides carry pulse oximeters and a comprehensive medical kit, and are trained to manage emergency descents if altitude sickness occurs.
Best Time to Trek
Lower Dolpo lies in a rain shadow area, making it one of the few regions in Nepal accessible during the summer monsoon months. We schedule our departures between May and September when weather conditions are most stable.
Even in summer, night temperatures at high campsites drop below freezing, so proper thermal layering is required.
Fitness Expectations
This is a strenuous trek involving daily walks of 3 to 7 hours over steep, rocky, and remote terrain. Participants should engage in rigorous cardiovascular and strength training several months prior to departure.
Previous high-altitude hiking experience is strongly recommended before attempting this route.
Accommodation & Meals
We provide twin-share tented accommodation throughout the trekking portion of the journey, complete with a dedicated dining tent, tables, and camp chairs. Our expert camp cook prepares all meals fresh on-site.
Filtered drinking water is provided daily at camps, supplemented with water purification tablets.
Route
Route overview
Altitude
Altitude profile
Pack list
What to pack
Sturdy waterproof hiking bootsEssential
Footwear
Must be broken in prior to arrival.
Down jacket rated for sub-zero temperaturesEssential
Clothing
Essential for cold nights at high altitude camps.
Thermal base layersEssential
Clothing
Merino wool or synthetic tops and bottoms.
Sleeping bag rated to -20°CEssential
Camping
Required for unheated tented camps.
Valid passport and insurance documentsEssential
Documents
Must include high-altitude rescue coverage.
First aid kit and personal medicationsEssential
Safety
Include blister care and altitude sickness remedies.
Trekking polesEssential
Footwear
Useful for steep ascents and loose descents over Numa La and Baga La.
UV protection sunglasses and sunscreenEssential
Safety
High altitude sun exposure is intense.
Paperwork
Permits & paperwork
We arrange
Handled in Kathmandu — nothing for you to do.Special Restricted Area Permit
PermitRequired for entering restricted zones in the Dolpo region.
Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit
PermitMandatory conservation fee for entering the protected park area.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the Lower Dolpo Trek?
This is a strenuous trek rated for experienced hikers. It involves crossing high mountain passes above 5000 m, long walking days, and remote camping conditions.
What permits do I need for Lower Dolpo?
You require a special Lower Dolpo restricted area permit and a Shey Phoksundo National Park entry permit, both of which we arrange for you.
What is the accommodation like on the trek?
We use twin-share camping tents throughout the trek, supported by a mess tent, kitchen tent, and camp crew. In Kathmandu and Nepalgunj, hotel accommodation is provided.
How do we handle internal flights to Juphal?
Flights to Juphal depend heavily on clear weather conditions in the mountains. We build schedule flexibility into our itinerary in case minor flight delays occur.
What is the best season for Lower Dolpo?
Because Lower Dolpo lies in a rain shadow behind the main Himalayan range, the best trekking window runs from May through September, including the summer monsoon months.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, mandatory travel insurance must cover emergency helicopter evacuation up to 5500 m and medical treatment.
Still have a question? Message us and our trip planner will reply within a working day.
Book your trip
Pick any start date on the calendar. We block the trip out over 18 days and confirm the plan with you before payment.
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