Advanced
Lower Dolpo trek
27 Days
Advanced
Dolpo
Trip Summary & Highlights
Lower Dolpo Trek: A Journey Through the Hidden Land of the Himalayas
The Lower Dolpo Trek is a legendary journey into the heart of Nepal’s most remote and rugged landscapes. Nestled within the vast Shey Phoksundo National Park, this Nepal trek offers a rare glimpse into a world untouched by time. Shrouded in the rain shadow of the Dhaulagiri range, Lower Dolpo is a sanctuary for ancient Bon Po traditions and Tibetan Buddhist culture.
For those seeking an extended adventure, this specific 27-day Lower Dolpo trek itinerary integrates the elusive Gyaekuchen with Schaller Trail. This route takes you beyond the standard paths, exploring turquoise glacial lakes, high-altitude passes like Serela (5,410m), and the iconic “Crystal Mountain” landscapes made famous by Peter Matthiessen’s The Snow Leopard. If you are looking for Nepal holidays that offer true isolation and spiritual depth, this is the ultimate expedition.
Trip Highlights
- Shey Phoksundo Lake: Behold the mesmerizing, deep-turquoise waters of Nepalu2019s deepest lake.
- The Schaller Trail & Gyaekuchen: Venture off-the-beaten-path into the secluded Gyaekuchen Base Camp and the wild Schaller trail.
- Ancient Spirituality: Visit thousand-year-old monasteries and experience the pre-Buddhist Bon Po religion.
- Dho Tarap Village: Spend time in one of the highest human settlements on Earth, rich in authentic Tibetan culture.
- Rare Wildlife: Scout for the elusive snow leopard, blue sheep, and Himalayan griffons within the national park.
- High Passes: Conquer the challenging Serela (5,410m) and Khayang La (5,200m) for panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna.
Trip Infos
Duration
27 Days
Trip Grade
Advanced
Best season
Mid April to Jun and August to October
Accomodation
Star Hotel, Teahouse and Camping during the trek
Transportation
Bus and Jeeps
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Max. Altitude
5350m
Detailed Day-to-Day Itinerary
When you arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport, our staff will be waiting you with holding a placard with Himalayan Travelers written in it. He/she will meet, greet and welcome you with an auspicious garland and escort you to your respective hotel. In the Hotel, he will help you to check-in and make a pre-meeting program for the trek and clear your questions/ enquiries if any.
Trek preparation day. Check all the necessary equipments for trekking and make shopping in case of missing some equipments. and We started our Dolpa trek by taking a vehicle to airport for 30 minutes. And we flight to Nepalgunj, stayed overnight there at Nepalgunj.
Early morning, again we took flight to Juphal Dolpa and we started our first walk to Dunai headquarter of Dolpa district. We took 3/4 hours to get into Dunai the first camp of our trek. There is two options; by walking and by taking vehicle to Dunai. We walked along the Bheri River. Dunai is one of the biggest local grocery shop/market. Dunai falls under approximately 2140m.
The trail was mostly easy way through big trail, normally we follow the riverside trekking trail which is the main trekking route. We need to walk about 5 hours on this day. The elevation of Namdo is approximately 2930m.
There is a small settlement and a police check point at Lasicap and on the left side there is long old suspension bridge. After 20 minutes from that suspension bridge, there is another same type of small bridge which takes two ways; one is way to monstery and another is the main trekking trail on the left side which we follow. We took 5-6hours to reach camp. The trail was easy with little pine forests next to the river was our camp. There was a new and small tented tea shop at the elevation of 2775m.
On this day we walked 4-5 hours up stair almost throughout the day through the pine and juniper forest. There was Tarap river on the right side of the trail. The elevation of the trail was approximately 3370m above sea level.
After five minutes straight, walk the up stair starts which takes approximately two hours and when we overlook down to Tarap river we can see the very beautiful landscape. After this we reached a small tea shop which is called Tilba, we trek downward to the river and after we crossed the river we walk straight ahead for about one hour and reached Chhyugar. There is three teahouses at Chhyugar. After 40minute we reached the camp. The elevation of Nawarpani Dovan is 3780m. We took 5-6 hours on this day.
After five minutes straight, walk the up stair starts which takes approximately two hours and when we overlook down to Tarap river we can see the very beautiful landscape. After this we reached a small tea shop which is called Tilba, we trek downward to the river and after we crossed the river we walk straight ahead for about one hour and reached Chhyugar. There is three teahouses at Chhyugar. After 40minute we reached the camp. The elevation of Nawarpani Dovan is 3780m. We took 5-6 hours on this day.
We took straight left side and crossed a river and trek along the river approximately two hours after that there is Kharka which means an open space for settlement of Yaks and goats/sheep. There is also two connected rivers. We climb up stair along the river about three hours to Gyakuchen pass. From the pass we can see the stunning mountain views and we trek down to Yarsha camp. In total it took us 6-7hours.
There is two ways, one is river side another is upper side. Today almost up stair throughout the day with small trekking trail. We took upper way though harder than riverside because of better views. It took us 3hours to reach camp. There is a wonderful lake with stunning mountain views and beautiful landscapes which is suitable for camping as it has open space.
We explored Gyakuchen BC to acclimatize ourselves and also for hiking above 5200m and then got back to camp 4500m. We took our lunch and took rest. We enjoyed our rest day with beautiful mountain views and wonderful lake.
On this day we had adventurous and little harder day because we passed Serela 5410m. At the beginning we climb up stairs till Serela pass and after pass we trek down 2 hours to Serela base camp the destination of the day. It took us 5 hours. From this, we can see massive mountain views and some yaks grazing around.
At the beginning we trek down wards and cross the bridge. There we can see blue sheep, Yaks birds like vulture, eagles etc. We cross another river which is called Kalang Khola. There we get two ways i.e. right side and left side. The right one goes to Kalang and left side goes to Dho. Before reach the Dho Khola, there is camp side on the way beside mani wall and stupa/chorten. And after approximately 40 minutes of walk there is an open space for camp site the destination of the day. It took us 5hours to reach our destination.
Today it is easy day, we walk only two hours to reach the destination of the day. There is a big village which is known as Dho Tarap village. Dho Tarap is a village in Dolpa Buddha Rural Municipality of Dolpa District in the Karnali Zone of north western Nepal. Dho village and it�s neighbor village Lang and Tokyou are collectively known as Dho Tarap village. This village is located at the heart of Dolpo with having approximately 1,500 population. It is one of the highest human settlement in Nepal. Breathtaking landscape, serene rivers and turquoise-colored lakes, spectacular villages, ancient monasteries, stupas and mani walls, distinct vernacular architecture, rich traditions of Bon, Buddhism and Amchi, are some of the things which makes Dho-Tarap and Dolpo in whole, an important place to visit in Nepal.
As we embark on our adventure around the village of Dho Tarap, let's ensure we're dressed comfortably for the exploration ahead. How about a light, breathable cotton shirt adorned with intricate Tibetan-inspired patterns? Its soothing colors will blend harmoniously with the vibrant landscape of prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. And to complement our attire, let's indulge in a delightful local sweet treat, perhaps a traditional Tibetan dessert made with rich yak butter, honey, and roasted barley flour. Its sweet, nutty flavor will tantalize our taste buds as we immerse ourselves in the cultural delights of Dho Tarap. Now attired in our comfortable shirts and with a delectable sweet in hand, let's set out to discover the wonders of this enchanting village. From the majestic chortens and serene monasteries to the verdant fields teeming with life, every corner of Dho Tarap promises a feast for the senses. And as we engage with the warm and hospitable locals, we'll be captivated by the echoes of ancient traditions and the vibrant spirit of community that defines this Himalayan gem.
Today no rush because we have short trip 5 hours in maximum and even exciting day with breathtaking landscape and easy terrain. We see a Gompa on the way called Chhamba Gompa and we can also see Yaks and blue sheeps today on the way itself.
Today we trek about three hours from camp to reach pass, the terrains are up, down and straight having beautiful landscapes. We can see stunning mountain views on the way. After we pass Kang La, we have to descend down for about 2 hours and we get into a beautiful lawn. After this, there is another way on the left side but usually we use the right way down as it is easier then the left one. After descend is finished we also have to ascend up for about one and half hours and cross Dhumsi khola(river). There we find one of the best camping place on the top of Chhumju danda and from there we can see beautiful views.
Today it is bit longer camp but extremely beautiful views on the way. We cross three hills and after crossing these hills, we cross a river and after we crossed the river there is three different ways, we took left side down to ease our trek. Today we walk through the gorge crossing about 7-8 rivers. Anyway, 6 hours is the walking day.
At the beginning of the trek we ascend up for about three hours and trek through upper side of the Shyphoksundo lake with exciting beautiful landscapes with different natural sceneries. After one and half hours of walking through Balcony we get into a big open space suitable for camping nearby Shyphoksundo Lake. There we get another way to Shy gompa. From there we can also see beautiful natural sceneries with lake. Today we walk 5 hours to reach our destination.
Today the walking hours is four and half hours. We trek through upper side of the Shyphoksundo lake through pine trees, juniper and other many types of vegetation. The trail is wide up, down and straight today with never ending natural beauties. There is a small village nearby Shyphoksundo lake called Ringmo having stunning views. We camped by the lake, it was so exciting day as we had a beautiful morning sunrise.
Today we visit monastery also police check post after crossing the river. There is also one stupa. After we visit monastery we came back, took rest, read books, had lunch, took laundries and so on.
Today the walking duration is only four hours. After passing Ringmo village there is a river on the left side of the Ringmo gate which is known as Shyphoksundo river. After this river we trek through a wide trekking trail through the pine and juniper forest and there we see a big waterfall on the way. From there we trek down to a small village and cross a river and reach another village called Saijal. There at Saijal village we find gomba, hotels, and schools. Today the trail is easy but we have to cross many suspension bridges. There is a small settlement at Riche village.
Today the walking duration is five hours through the main trekking trail, we cross many bridges and reach Chhepka. Chhepka is a small village having few hotels but not suitable camp. From Chhepka it takes one hour to reach Shangta and after Sangta it takes one hour to reach Kagani. There is a suitable place for camping at Kagani. At Kagani Sunita Hotel is one of the best for camping.
Two hours walking until the place called Sulighat, there is a Check post which is the Dolpa National park entry and after the check post few minutes later there is two connected rivers i.e. Tarap river and Phoksundo. And there is a road connection to Dunai and from there we hire a jeep to Juphal but If you undertake your trek by foot , you have to walk along the road for about one hour and after that you have to trek upward till Juphal through a small village which is also a part of Juphal. If you go on September/October, you will find harvesting season.
Fly back to Nepaljung- Kathmandu and relax at Kathmandu.
Extra day in Kathmandu if required/ visit World heritage sites of Kathmandu.
Departure form Nepal.
Want to Customize Your Trip?
We can tailor this trek to your schedule, comfort level, and interests.
What's Included & Excluded
What's Included
- All airport pick up drop by private vehicles.
- 4 nights accommodation in a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj on BB plan.(Twin bedroom sharing).
- Experience trekking guide, Assistant guide, Cook and Kitchen staff, porters, Mules.
- Full board service during the trekking.
- All land transportation and flight tickets Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Juphal-Nepalgunj-Kathmandu
- Special Dolpo trekking permit, National park entry fee.
- Guide and porters wages, foods, transportation, insurance, equipments and all other facilities.
- Government tax and Local agency service charge.
What's Excluded
- International airfare and Nepal entry visa fee.
- Insurance (compulsory on all trips – ensure you are adequately covered for emergency evacuation).
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- Spending of a personal expenses, e.g. laundry, snacks and bottle drinks, souvenirs, toiletries, tips, etc.
Essential Information & Preparation
Essential Information
How difficult is Lower Dolpo Trek
The Lower Dolpo trek difficulty is classified as challenging to strenuous. Trekkers must cross multiple passes exceeding 5,000 meters. The remote nature of the terrain means help is far away, requiring high physical fitness and previous trekking experience.Lower Dolpo Trek Accommodation
Due to the extreme remoteness, Lower Dolpo trek accommodation is primarily tented camping. While some villages like Dunai and Ringmo have basic teahouses, a fully organized camping trek with a support crew is essential for the Gyaekuchen extension.
Best Time for Lower Dolpo Trek
The best time for this Nepal trek is from late April to June and September to November. Because Dolpo is in a rain shadow, it is also one of the few regions suitable for trekking during the monsoon months (July–August).Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. Due to its geographical isolation and restricted access, Dolpo is often referred to as the “Hidden Land.” It preserves a lifestyle and landscape that has vanished in most other parts of the world.
It is a strenuous trek. You will be walking 5u20137 hours a day over rugged terrain and crossing passes over 5,000m. Physical preparation is mandatory.
Bon Po is the ancient, pre-Buddhist religion of Tibet. It shares many similarities with Tibetan Buddhism but features unique rituals, shamanistic roots, and a counter-clockwise circumambulation of shrines.
No. Restricted area regulations in Nepal require a minimum of two trekkers and a government-licensed guide for the Lower Dolpo region.
Starting from
$3,195
Per Person (Group Join)
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