Lower Dolpo Trek

duration 18 days
usd 3,690 All inclusive
difficulty Hard

Among the hardest available treks but still these treks are in reach of most people however one must be fit. These trips go above 5000 meters and for the duration of 15 – 20 days walking up to 6-7 hours in a day.
best season Mar-Nov
group size Min. 2 Pax
max altitude From 4,600 feet at Kathmandu to 17,023 feet at Numa La Pass

trip overview

This trek provides an outstanding trekking experience in the remote western part of Nepal. The 18 day trek includes visit to range of landscapes and also different heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley.

Detail itinerary

day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu (1300m/4264ft).

Your arrival will be at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu (1,345m) from where we will pick you up and take you to your hotel.
- Accomodation: Hotel
day 02
Sightseeing around the Kathmandu valley.

We will take you on a guided tour to three iconic monuments in Kathmandu which are included in the Unesco’s World Heritage List. Our first stop will be the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the biggest and holiest shrines in the world of Hindu god Shiva.

We visit another World Heritage Site of Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the country. It is believed that the Stupa is a tomb of an incarnation of Lord Buddha.

We then drive to Bhaktapur to visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The square is a former royal courtyard where there are several ancient temples and monuments to visit. The place is rich in culture and preserves the traditional way of living.
- Accomodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast
day 03
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj.

We take a one hour flight to Nepalgunj in southern plains of Nepal. Nepalgunj is the biggest city in the region and shares its southern border with India. It is hot and humid in Neplagunj but you can visit around town in the evening.
- Accomodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast
day 04
Fly to Juphal (7,874ft). Trek to Dunai (7,054ft).

We will reach Juphal in 35 minutes. This small airport is the main entrance to the Dolpo region from the rest of Nepal. From here, we begin our trek downhill through grasslands till Kala Gaura. Then we follow a river upstream to Dunai. It takes three hours in total.
- Accomodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 05
Dunai to Tarakot (2,543m/8,341ft).

This hiking could take upto 6 hours as we have to gain 1,300 feet in altitude. Beauty of the nature will be our company on this day.
- Accomodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 06
Tarakot to Laina (3,160 m/10,365 ft).

After leaving Tarakot we head toward Laina which is around 7 hours of journey through nature. Rivers will accompany us till we reach our destination.
- Accomodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 07
Laina to Nawarpani (3,545m/11,627ft).

Our next step is Nawarpani which is about 6 hours of trekking away. It is next to Laina Odarand there are several lakes and forests on the way.
- Accomodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 08
Nawarpani to DhoTarap (4,090m/13,415ft).

Dho is a remote village and it takes about 7 to 8 hours to reach this village. Dho lies next to its neighbor village Tarap so they both are collectively known as DhoTarap.
- Accomodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 09
Rest Day at DhoTarap for acclimatization.

Being in such high altitude, we are suggested to rest a bit due to change in humidity and temperature. Different cultural dance and performances can be arranged in the village for the entertainment of the tourists. Tarap is said to be the dream valley of vast plains in high mountains.
- Accomodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 10
Trek to Numa La Base Camp (4,440m/14,563ft).

In order to reach Numa La Base camp we have to pass the upper Tarap valley walking on lush meadows. Crossing the vast land of Tarap we will reach our destination of Namu La Base Camp.
- Accomodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 11
Cross Numa La pass (5,190m/17,023ft), camp at Pelung Tang (4,465m/14,645ft).

Leaving the Numa La Base Camp behind and continuing forward for 7 hours we will reach Pelung Tang. We have to cross the Numa La pass which lies above 17,000 feet on our way. The view from this high is what makes the trip worth all the trouble.
- Accomodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 12
Cross Baga La pass (5,070m/16,630ft), trek to Dajok Tang (4,080m/13,382ft).

After breakfast we have to walk for 6 hours with a steep climb to reach the top of Baga La ridge which lies at 5070m. The surrounding landscape consists of distant snow capped peaks of Kanjirowa Himal range.Walking downhill from here for 3 hours takes you to Dojak Tang.
- Accomodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 13
Dajok Tang to Ringmo (3,600m/11,808ft).

From Dojak Tang, we continue our journey through pine forest at first and vast grassland next till we reach Ringmo.
- Accomodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 14
Hike to Phoksundo Lake (3,662m/11,849ft).

We walk to the Phoksundo Lake which is not far from Ringmo. The lake spread over 1.91 square miles is beautiful to say the least. As you might have seen in pictures, the landscape is surreal and that is why the Tibetan and Buddhist people consider this place sacred. At the maximum depth of 476 feet, it is the deepest lake in Nepal.
- Accomodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 15
Phoksundo Lake to Shyanta (2,520m/8,265 ft).

We will trek downhill to Chepka and follow the massive overhanging rock.We make our way through the thin forest and pass through villages till we reach Shyanta.
- Accomodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 16
Shyanta to Jhupal.

Following the trail that leads gently upwards, we will head to Jhupla. From the top of the ridge we can have glorious view of mountains. You can rest in the afternoon or explore the busy town market.
- Accomodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 17
Fly to Nepalgunj. Then fly to Kathmandu. Farewell Dinner.

A 35-minute flight takes us to Nepalgunj. We will fly back to Kathmandu on the same day.You might want to visit some landmarks of the city before we have a farewell dinner to officially end your vacation. We suspect you will have mixed feelings throughout the night: excited to get back home but sad to leave Nepal behind.
- Accomodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner
day 18
Final Departure.

We will drop you to Tribhuvan International Airport and you will be gone with recollections of your Himalayan journey to keep you busy throughout the flight. Goodbye.
- Meal: Breakfast

Included in cost

Receive you from and drop you to the airport or hotel in our company vehicle.
Stay at a three-star hotel in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis. Breakfast is on us.
Sightseeing around Kathmandu in a private vehicle with our guide. All entrance fees will be paid.
Stay at guesthouses during the trek on a twin-sharing basis. Breakfasts, lunches and dinners will also be taken care of.
Local government-licensed guides.
Porters (one each for a pair of travellers) and local support staff to help you trek.
Fees for entering conservation areas and Trekkers’ Information Management System card
We will lend you a down jacket and a sleeping bag for throughout the trek.
Fully paid round tickets for Kathmandu-Nepalgunj and return flights. Round tickets for Nepalgunj-Juphal flight and back.
Rides in private vehicles included in the itinerary.
A duffel bag, a sun hat and a t-shirt as a souvenir from us.
A traditional Nepali feast with cultural shows as a farewell dinner.
All tourist fees, government charges and other official expenses throughout the trip.

Not included in cost

Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
Additional stay before, during or after the set itinerary.
Charges at airports or other areas for excess luggage.
Alcohol, hot or cold drinks, bottled water, and other snacks.
Phone calls, internet, laundry, additional porters, and other personal expenses.
Travel insurance. (It is compulsory and covers emergency rescue and evacuation.)
International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
Visa fees for entering Nepal.
Trekking equipment.
Other expenses not mentioned in “Included in cost” list.

Accomodation during the Trip

In Kathmandu, you will stay in a three-star hotel while you will be staying at standard guesthouses during your travel. There will be electricity, internet, laundry and hot showers in all of the places you stay. You will have to share your room with a fellow traveller in our typical package. Single supplement will be served on request and will cost an additional USD 50.Also note that single rooms is easily available in Kathmandu and the trekking regions at lower elevation but it might be difficult to find them at higher elevations.

faqs

How do I come to Nepal?

You have to book your own international flight from your country to Nepal and back according to your trip departure dates.
What happens after I land into Nepal?

A chauffeur from Mountain Kick will come receive you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Representatives of the company will visit you at the hotel itself and brief you on your trip.
What will a trekking trip with Mountain Kick involve?

You will trek in the Himalayas in a group of international travellers fully assisted by our guides, porters and local support staff. We will take care of your entire trip as soon as you land in Kathmandu and safely take to your preferred destination and back as per the package you choose. Travel will involve plenty of sightseeing and mixing with local culture.
In what physical condition do I need to be for the trip?

A regular person can complete the trip with help from our guides and porters. But it is important that you are healthy and have no physical injuries. Trekking for long hours in high altitude and difficult terrain will surely put a strain on your body and you might suffer severe physical and mental breakdown, especially if you are trekking in the Himalayas for the first time. It is, therefore, expected that you have taken light endurance training especially for longer trips.
How long do I have to trek each day?

On most days of your trips, you will trek for a couple of hours only. But some trekking days require as much as six hours to eight of walking in high altitude. However, there will be plenty time each day for rest and acclimatization.
Where will I be staying during the trip?

In Kathmandu, you will stay in a three-star hotel while you will be staying at standard guesthouses during your travel. There will be electricity, internet, laundry and hot showers in all of the places you stay. You will have to share your room with a fellow traveller in our typical package. At some destinations, especially in the Himalayas, you will have to stay in a tented camp. If you want to make separate living arrangements, talk to us beforehand and we can arrange single rooms for additional $250. Some guesthouses at very high altitudes and remote places may not have attached washrooms or single rooms.
And food?

All your major meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) are included in your trekking package except in Kathmandu (where only breakfast is provided for). You will be served local food at all places we dine but you can order anything you like on the menu which you will have to pay for yourself. You will have a range of options so there won’t be a problem if you are a vegetarian or vegan. We make sure you get healthy and hygienic food throughout your travel.
How much help do I get during the trek?

Our guides and porters always put your safety and comfort first. We have English-speaking guides who take you to all major attractions throughout the travel and are happy to answer all your queries. We have one porter assigned each for two travellers and you will have to pay separately if you want to hire extra porters. We have local support staff in all villages and camps you reach to assist you in any way possible.
What happens in case of injuries and emergencies?

The guides always carry a professional first aid kit with them to treat with minor injuries. We also have health professionals at villages and camps along the journey. The travel insurance you take (which is compulsory) covers any and all emergency rescue and evacuation.
What if I want to do something beyond the itinerary?

We are always happy to accommodate your wishes during the travel so far as they do not conflict with schedules and other travellers. If you have special plans, you can talk to us beforehand so that we can arrange a customised trip for you.
What equipment do I bring?

You have to bring all travel equipment yourself. Please see the equipment section for a standard list of required equipment prepared by our guides. Most of the items are easily available in Kathmandu in case if you miss any and we also lend you some of the gears for the duration of the trip for a small fee.
Will I get to communicate with the outer world?

There is internet and telephone connection in all of our stops for the day throughout the journey. You will be able to call back home or post your pictures on Facebook everyday.
What travel documents do I need?

As soon as you land into Kathmandu, we take care of all your travel documents required during your trip. You just need to bring your passport and a copy of your travel insurance. Tourist fees and permits to enter certain areas will be arranged for by Mountain Kick.
Which is best time of the year to travel?

Most of the trekking routes are open throughout the year but September through to December and March to May are the best months to travel.
What are the modes of transportation for travel mentioned in the itinerary?

Rides for sightseeing and reaching destinations within city limits are done in a private vehicle like a car, a jeep or a microbus. Most of the long distance travel is done in luxurious tourist buses hired exclusively by the company. In some journeys, you may also need to take a public bus but as you will travel in a group with our guides and support staff, you need not worry about your safety or comfort.
How much money do I need to carry during the trip?

Around $50 will be enough to buy you lunch and dinner in Kathmandu. During your travel, you can get by with around $25 a day. But it depends on how much you want to spend. Due to the exchange rate and predominantly rural economy of Nepal, things are pretty cheap in Nepal.
Can I use my credit cards?

Almost all international credit cards are accepted in Nepal. However, not all places, especially during your travel, accept them. There may be a fee involved in processing your card.
Are tips for my guides and porters expected? How much?

Our staff do not expect you to tip them. Generally, travellers tip them if they are satisfied with the service as a means of gratitude. Even when travellers tip the guides and porters, there is no fixed rate. However, if you like to tip them, follow customs of your own country for tipping (which, as we have learned, is 10 to 15 percent of total cost for most western countries).
Where will I get a visa to come to Nepal?

You can obtain a visa at your home country through Nepal’s embassy or consular office. But you can easily get a visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. You just need two passport-size photographs. A tourist visa with multiple entry for 30 days costs $40 while the same for 90 days costs $100.
How do I book a tour?

Click Book Now to enter your details and we shall contact you. You can contact us directly for any further information or to prepare a customized itinerary for you. For payment information, see our Terms and Conditions.

Trip notes

You will trek in rocky landscape so trekking here is not straightforward. Be prepared to trek right after breakfast till lunch and again till the evening and then some. But our guides will help you and you can complete this tour with little bit of lower body strength and plenty of determination.
Please make sure you take a travel insurance at home before arriving here. It is mandatory and you cannot take it in Nepal. Your insurance agent will know which insurance plan suits your travel.
It is advisable that you free up a few days before and after your trip schedule. For reasons beyond our control like flight delays, accidents and natural hazards, the itinerary may have to be altered.
For the Nepalgunj-Juphal flight, flights are always scheduled early in the morning in this region because high winds in the ThuloBheri Valley begin around 10 am, making later flights impossible.
Please inform us and our guides if you have any medical condition that might affect your trip. Please consult your doctor beforehand for any precautions you need to take and always carry medicines if you need them. However, our guides and local support staff have been trained in basic medical intervention and your travel insurance covers any emergency rescue or evacuation.
You may decide to alter your itinerary to some degree as long as there are no time constraints and everyone consents, if you are travelling in a group. Talk to us before embarking on the trip or you may also talk to our guides to see if we can arrange something. One thing we have learned from mountaineering all these years is however good you plan your journey, there are bound to be some improvisations to make our experience richer.

Equipment List

General

2 season sleeping bag – one.
Spring down jacket – one.
Duffel – one. (We will provide you one complementary duffel bag for you to keep.)
35-45 liter daypack – one.

Head

Hat (shade hat or baseball cap). You can additionally tie a bandana around your head or neck. (Mountain Kick provides you a baseball cap as a complimentary gift.)
You can alternatively use balaclava, beanie, or hooded jacket which will be quite sufficient to keep you warm.
Glacier glasses with side shields and 100% UV protection as you will face very intense sun rays at higher altitude with high UV radiation level. If you use prescription glasses, you can find glacier glasses with prescription lenses.
Headlamp that use lithium batteries. (It is recommended you carry spare batteries.)
Neckwarmer (optional).
Lip balm – two sticks. (You lips are bound to get chapped in the cold and dry weather.)

Hand

Synthetic liner gloves – one pair.
Winter fleece gloves or wool gloves – one pair.
Shell gloves – one pair.
Hand warmer (optional). Wearing multiple layers of your gloves should be enough.

Torso

T-shirt – two.
Lightweight thermal tops – two.
Fleece jacket – one.
Windstopper jacket (optional).
Rain jacket – one.
For women: synthetic sports bra – two.

Legs

Nylon hiking shorts – two pairs.
Trekking pants – two pairs.
Synthetic underwear – four.
Synthetic long underwear – two.
Synthetic softshell pant – one pair.
Waterproof pant – one pair.
Jeans, cotton or khaki pant – one pair.

Feet

Synthetic liner socks – four pairs.
Heavyweight socks – three pairs.
Lightweight socks – one pair.
Waterproof light trekking boots – one pair. Choose wisely as you will be doing a lot of walking.
Sneakers – one pair. (You will not be trekking throughout your vacation).
Hiking gaiters (optional).
Sandals (optional).

First aid and medicines

Extra strength Excedrin for headaches.
Ibuprofen for general pain.
Imodium or Pepto-Bismol for gas, upset stomach or diarrhoea.
Diamox for altitude sickness.
Ointment for blisters and cuts.
First aid kit (optional). Our guides always carry a professional first aid kit with them.

Do not forget

Your passport. Passport size photos – four copies.
Airline tickets.
SPF 40 sunscreen for UV protection.
A Swiss army knife.
Aqua iodine tablets.
A toiletry kit with towels, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, hand wipes, soaps, etc.
Kerchiefs

Optional

Trekking poles. These will provide stability, take the stress off your knees and greatly increase your trekking speed.
Munchies (all the walking might make you hungry during your trek).
Binoculars
Books or mp3 players (a smartphone is great).
Camera
Hydration bladder. You might also want to carry a thermos.
A pee bottle (or a pee funnel for women).

Note: The lists have been prepared by our guides based on experience and are meant as suggestion for an average trekker. Each trekker will have his/her own preferences and necessities and we recommend carrying everything that you think you might need. You will find several options for each equipment and we advise to select the best match for your particular trip. You can purchase almost everything on the lists in Kathmandu and we are happy to help you choose.

download equipment list

view all equipment list

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csr

As one of the core guiding principles for Mountain Kick, we always give back to the mountain community in any way we can as a means of gratitude. The people who live in the Himalayas and share their homes with us deserve to have all their little problems fixed which seem very basic for outsiders but are commonplace in rural Nepal. The people lack proper access to healthcare, sanitation and education but a little effort from travellers goes on a long way to solve these issues. Mountain Kick has made it its corporate social responsibility to help improve the living standards of the local community. We make donations to their cause, organize social campaigns and programs and also have a few trips designed to mix a little volunteer work in your holiday.