Lower Dolpo Trek

duration 18 days
difficulty Hard

Substantial treks requiring good fitness and previous hiking experience. These trips involve longer daily distances on varied and sometimes challenging terrain with significant elevation gain.
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.

Detailed itinerary

day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)

A Mountain Kick representative will receive you as you land into Kathmandu and take you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and recover from jet lag or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel on your own. Brief trek orientation and equipment check will be provided to ensure you are well-prepared for this challenging adventure into one of Nepal’s most remote wilderness areas.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
day 02
Fly to Nepalgunj (150m/492ft) from Kathmandu

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 Nepalgunj but you can visit around town in the evening. This flight marks the beginning of our journey toward one of Nepal’s most remote regions.

Time: 1 hour flight
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast
day 03
Spare day in Nepalgunj (150m/492ft)

This day serves as a buffer for potential flight delays or cancellations, which are common in mountain flying conditions . If flights operate on schedule, you can explore Nepalgunj’s markets and experience the blend of Hindu and Muslim cultures in this border town . The day can also be used for final trek preparations and equipment checks before heading into the remote Dolpo region.

Difficulty: Rest Day
- Accommodation: 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, the administrative headquarters of Dolpo. It takes three hours in total. This marks the official beginning of our Dolpo adventure.

Distance: 35-minute flight + 3 hours trek | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 05
Dunai to Tarakot (2,543m/8,341ft)

This hiking could take up to 6 hours as we have to gain 1,300 feet in altitude . We follow the southern bank of Bheri River through deep gorges and isolated villages. The trail includes a spectacular gorge with pine trees and a path built about seven meters above the river. Beauty of the nature will be our company on this day.

Distance: 6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 06
Tarakot to Laina (3,160m/10,365ft)

After leaving Tarakot we head toward Laina which is around 7 hours of journey through nature . We cross Tarap River twice and pass Sandul Gompa at the junction of Barbung Khola and Tarap Chu rivers. Rivers will accompany us till we reach our destination. We trek through farm terraces and rural villages experiencing the traditional way of life in this remote region.

Distance: 7 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: 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 Odar and there are several lakes and forests on the way. We climb on steep trail with switchbacks above the Tarap River. The walk is quite exciting as the valley becomes a narrow gorge that in some places you can jump from one side to another.

Distance: 6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: 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. We leave the tree line behind us and welcome wild rose and juniper bushes, typical of the dry inner Himalayan valleys. Dho lies next to its neighbor village Tarap so they both are collectively known as DhoTarap. The village is surrounded by an irregular stone wall where Bon Po and Buddhist sects coexist.

Distance: 7-8 hours | Difficulty: Challenging
- Accommodation: 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. Visit nearby Buddhist monastery of the Chiba sect and learn about traditional Dolpo culture. Observe traditional clothing, Tibetan-style boots, and religious practices of both Bon Po and Nyingmapa Buddhist communities. 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.
- Accommodation: 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. We visit Tokyu village which houses a Buddhist monastery of the Chiba sect. After exploring the monastery, we continue walking up the valley on a rough trail. Crossing the vast land of Tarap we will reach our destination of Numa La Base Camp.

Distance: 6-7 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 11
Cross Numa La pass (5,190m/17,023ft), camp at Danigar (4,510m/14,796ft)

Leaving the Numa La Base Camp behind and continuing forward for 7 hours we will reach Danigar . 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 . From the ridge we get incredible views of the barren mountains of Dolpo up to Mt. Dhaulagiri. After reaching the top, we descend to camp at Danigar.

Distance: 7 hours | Difficulty: Challenging
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 12
Cross Baga La pass (5,070m/16,630ft), trek to Yak Kharka (3,860m/12,664ft)

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 the pastoral yak grazing area of Yak Kharka.

Distance: 6 hours | Difficulty: Challenging
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 13
Yak Kharka to Ringmo (3,600m/11,808ft)

From Yak Kharka, we continue our journey through pine forest at first and vast grassland next till we reach Ringmo. This is a short 3-4 hour trek through beautiful pine forests and alpine vegetation to the traditional Tibetan village of Ringmo. We rest and prepare for the exploration of the magnificent Phoksundo Lake.

Distance: 3-4 hours | Difficulty: Easy
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 14
Phoksundo Lake Exploration and Bonpo Monastery

We explore Nepal’s deepest lake at the maximum depth of 476 feet, it is the deepest lake in Nepal . 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 . We visit the ancient Bonpo monastery and experience pre-Buddhist religious traditions unique to the Dolpo region. The full day allows us to hike around the turquoise waters and explore the pristine wilderness.

Difficulty: Rest Day / Exploration
- Accommodation: 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. During our trek, we find many important medicinal minerals which are believed to cure almost anything in this area.

Distance: 5-6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Tented
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
day 16
Shyanta to Jhupal. Fly to Nepalgunj.

Following the trail that leads gently upwards, we will head to Jhupal . From the top of the ridge we can have glorious view of mountains. 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.

Distance: 4-5 hours trek + flights
- Accommodation: Tented
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.
- Accommodation: 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

What's Included

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.
Stay at tented campps 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
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.

What's Not Included

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.

Accommodation during the Trip

In Kathmandu

Three-star hotel accommodation on a twin-sharing basis (breakfast included)

Room Arrangements:

Twin-sharing basis as standard accommodation
Single rooms are available upon request

In Nepalgunj

Hotel Standard:

Hotel accommodation provided
Breakfast included

Duration:

Minimum one night, with a spare day allocated as a buffer

About the Spare Day:

This day serves as a buffer for potential flight delays or cancellations, which are common in mountain flying conditions . If flights operate on schedule, you can explore Nepalgunj’s markets and experience the blend of Hindu and Muslim cultures in this border town . The day can also be used for final trek preparations and equipment checks before heading into the remote Dolpo region .

During the Trek

Accommodation Type:

Tented accommodation during the trek on a twin-sharing basis
Camping is necessary due to the remote, restricted nature of the Upper Dolpo region

Meals:

All meals during trekking (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included

Important Considerations:

Unlike other trekking regions with established guesthouses, Upper Dolpo requires tented camping throughout the trek
The remote and restricted nature of the Upper Dolpo region means traditional lodge accommodation is not available
Tented camps are specifically designed for the high-altitude, wilderness environment of this trans-Himalayan region

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Essential Trip Information

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.

Packing Checklist

Must-Have Items:

Four-season sleeping bag – Rated for at least -15°C to -20°C for extreme altitude conditions
High-altitude mountaineering boots – Waterproof, insulated, and well broken-in
Down jacket/expedition parka – Essential for extreme cold at high passes
Daypack (35-45L) – For carrying daily essentials during long trekking days
Trekking poles – Essential for stability on high passes and steep terrain
Headlamp with spare lithium batteries – Critical for early starts and camp use
Glacier glasses with 100% UV protection – Essential for intense high-altitude UV exposure

Clothing Layers

Base Layers

Lightweight thermal tops (3-4) – Merino wool or synthetic for moisture management
Lightweight thermal bottoms (2-3) – For layering in extreme cold
Synthetic/merino wool underwear (5-6 pairs) – Extra pairs needed for 24-day trek
Sports bras (3-4, for women) – Moisture-wicking for extended trek duration

Mid Layers

Trekking shirts (4-5) – Long-sleeve preferred for sun protection at altitude
Fleece jacket or pullover – Mid-layer insulation for variable conditions
Windstopper jacket – Additional wind protection for exposed high passes
Trekking pants (2-3 pairs) – Durable, comfortable for extended wear
Synthetic softshell pants – Wind and weather resistant for high passes

Outer Layers

Waterproof/windproof shell jacket – Four-season rated for extreme conditions
Waterproof pants – Essential protection for high-altitude weather
Expedition down jacket – Rated for extreme cold, essential for high passes and camps
Nylon hiking shorts (2 pairs) – For warmer lower-elevation sections

Headwear

Sun hat/baseball cap – Mountain Kick provides complementary cap
Warm beanie/wool hat – Essential for cold nights and early mornings
Balaclava – Face protection for extreme wind and cold
Neck warmer/buff – Additional protection for exposed conditions
Glacier glasses with side shields – 100% UV protection essential at extreme altitude

Handwear

Synthetic liner gloves (2 pairs) – Base layer for hands
Winter fleece or wool gloves – Mid-layer hand protection
Shell gloves/mountaineering gloves – Waterproof outer layer for extreme conditions
Hand warmers (optional) – Backup warmth for extreme cold

Footwear

Waterproof light trekking boots – High-altitude rated, well broken-in
Sneakers/camp shoes – For rest days in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj
Hiking gaiters – Essential for keeping debris out in rough terrain
Sandals – For camp use and river crossings
Synthetic liner socks (6 pairs) – Moisture-wicking base layer
Heavyweight socks (5 pairs) – Wool or synthetic for warmth
Lightweight socks (2 pairs) – For lower elevations

Bags and Packs

Duffel bag – Mountain Kick provides complementary duffel for equipment
Daypack (35-45L) – For daily essentials during trekking
Stuff sacks/dry bags – Essential for organizing and waterproofing in tented camps
Pack rain cover – Protection during weather exposure

Sleeping Gear

Four-season sleeping bag – Rated -15°C to -20°C minimum (rental available for USD 25)
Sleeping bag liner – Adds warmth and hygiene for camping conditions
Insulated sleeping pad – Essential for ground insulation in tented camps
Camping pillow – Comfort for 24-day camping trek

Trekking Equipment

Trekking poles – Essential for stability on high passes and long descents
Headlamp with lithium batteries – Plus spare batteries for extended use
Water bottles (2 x 1L) – Or hydration reservoir system
Thermos – For hot drinks in extreme cold
Aqua iodine tablets – Water purification for remote areas

Personal Items

Quick-dry towel – Lightweight for camping conditions
Toiletry kit – Including biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste
SPF 40+ sunscreen – Critical UV protection at extreme altitude
Lip balm (2 sticks) – Essential for dry, cold conditions
Hand sanitizer – Hygiene maintenance during camping
Toilet paper – Not available in remote camping areas
Wet wipes – For cleaning when water is scarce
Swiss army knife – Multi-tool for camping needs
Kerchiefs – Multiple uses in dusty, dry conditions

First Aid and Medications

Personal first aid kit – Comprehensive supplies for remote conditions
Extra strength Excedrin – For altitude-related headaches
Ibuprofen – General pain relief for long trekking days
Imodium or Pepto-Bismol – Digestive issues from camp food
Diamox – Altitude sickness prevention (consult doctor)
Ointment – Blister and cut treatment
Personal medications – Bring extra supply for 24-day duration
Electrolyte tablets – Hydration support at extreme altitude
Throat lozenges – For dry air conditions

Electronics

Camera with spare batteries – Cold drains batteries faster at altitude
Phone in waterproof case – Limited connectivity but useful for photos
Portable power bank – Essential for device charging in remote camps
Adapters – Nepal uses Type C, D, and M plugs
Watch with alarm – Timing critical for early starts

Optional Items

Trekking snacks – Energy bars, trail mix, chocolate for long days
Binoculars – Wildlife and mountain viewing in pristine wilderness
Books or entertainment – For tent time during long expedition
Journal and pen – Document unique wilderness experience
Playing cards – Entertainment during weather delays
Hydration bladder – Alternative to water bottles
Pee bottle/funnel – Convenience for tent camping in extreme cold

Documents and Money

Passport – Required for restricted area permits
Passport photos (4 copies) – For permits and documentation
Airline tickets – International and domestic flights
Cash in small denominations – Limited spending opportunities but useful
Travel insurance documentation – Mandatory for extreme altitude trek

General Packing Tips for Upper Dolpo Trek

Prioritize extreme weather gear – Conditions are significantly harsher than standard Nepal treks
Layer extensively – Temperature variations extreme from day to night and altitude changes
Break in all gear thoroughly – 24 days with poorly fitted equipment causes serious problems
Pack for self-sufficiency – No equipment purchases possible during trek
Consider weight limits – Porter limit typically 15kg for duffel bag
Invest in quality – Equipment failure in remote conditions is dangerous
Test all gear – Practice with camping equipment before departure
Bring extras – Spare batteries, socks, and medications essential for extended duration

Important Note: This trek requires significantly more preparation and higher-quality gear than standard Nepal treks due to extreme altitude, remote location, and camping-only accommodation. Consult with experienced high-altitude trekkers and consider gear testing before departure.

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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.