Since the terrain can be hard and the days long, hikers on these treks should be in good physical condition and have some previous mountain walking experience. Steep climbing may be involved, although it is never necessary to use ropes. Treks at this level can he arranged for periods of 16 to 21 days. Typically, a gradual ascent through a green river valley will lead you up to a number of high passes, where you will reach the altitude of 5416m. Often times, you will get a close insight into the Tibetan culture. Participants should expect to trek above 5416m/17872ft.
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The Lower Dolpo Trek presents a captivating journey through isolated and breathtaking landscapes, setting it apart from popular trekking regions like the Annapurna region and the Everest region. This trek offers a unique opportunity to explore remote and lesser-explored regions of Nepal. As you traverse the Lower Dolpo trail, you’ll experience the serenity and tranquility of the untouched surroundings.
The highlight of the Lower Dolpo trek is the exploration of Shey Phoksundo Lake, a pristine and mesmerizing turquoise lake. Along the way, you’ll also encounter Buddhist monasteries and immerse yourself in the ancient Bonpo culture, adding a cultural dimension to your trekking experience. The Lower Dolpo region is renowned for its distinct cultural heritage, which provides an enriching encounter with traditional practices and beliefs.
In addition to the cultural aspects, the Lower Dolpo trek allows you to witness the incredible biodiversity of the region. The area is home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including some endangered ones. The trek offers a chance to appreciate the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this remote and protected environment.
The Lower Dolpo trek typically takes around 15 days to complete and includes a combination of basic tea house accommodations and homestays. During the trek, there are three nights and four days of camping, which provide an opportunity to experience the rugged and pristine beauty of the high passes, such as Numala Base Camp (4,440m), Danigar (4,510m), and Yak Kharka (3,982m).
It’s worth noting that the Lower Dolpo region was opened for foreign travelers in 1990, and even today, it remains a restricted area with limited access. The trails in this region are remote and less frequented, adding to the sense of adventure and exploration. Local communities still rely on yak and sheep caravans for trade with Tibet, showcasing a traditional way of life that has endured for centuries.
The Lower Dolpo trek unveils hidden valleys, enchanting landscapes, and unique cultural encounters. It offers an unforgettable experience that showcases the untouched beauty and charm of Nepal’s remote regions.
The Lower Dolpo trek is a restricted area trek, which means that trekkers need to obtain a special permit to enter the region. the permit cost for the Lower Dolpo trek is as follows:
For the first 10 days, the permit fee is US$20 per person.
For each additional day beyond the first 10 days, an additional fee of US$2 per person per day is charged.
In addition to the permit fee, trekkers are also required to obtain a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card, which costs NPR 2000 (approximately US$20) for individual trekkers and NPR 1000 (approximately US$10) for group trekkers.
It is important to note that trekking in the Lower Dolpo region is only allowed through a registered trekking agency and with a licensed guide. The agency will arrange the necessary permits on behalf of the trekkers. It is also recommended to check the current permit fees with a registered trekking agency or the Department of Immigration of Nepal before planning the trek.
The main highlight of the Trek is Phoksundo Lake and several high passes, it is an adventure and enthralling path, a reasonably tough trek that connects with a part of the Great Himalayan Trail (upper Dolpo trek) and Rara Lake to Dhorpatan Circuit trek.
Lower Dolpo of Phoksundo Lake is situated at 3,612 m. Above sea level, which is a very charming Lake, with rhododendrons, and pine trees around, Wild animals- Himalayan Thar, musk deer, Danphe, and Monals protected under the Phoksundo National Park. The trails are natural stone steps.
Lower Dolpo has Magar, Thakali, Bohora, Tibetan, and Bhote populations. They have a typical Buddhist culture and a long-accepted society of Bonpo followers who follow Tibetan culture and are well-preserved against the outside world, with local practices and beliefs that seem to echo a distant past, for example, the purest forms of Buddhism. Guru Rinpoche is said to have blessed the entire region in the 8th century, and it has long been a refuge for devout Buddhists in troubled times.
The lower Dolpo area is a Restricted but isolated paradise and area of Nepal. The mountains are gray hills and dry alpine grazing deserts. During the day there is a lot of wind and dust, and greenery can be seen. Therefore, this trek is Isolated from other treks.
lower Dolpo trek 15-day journey begins with a short scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by another 30-minute flight to Juphal, the start of the trek. this trek discovers the beautiful villages of Dunai Bazaar, Phoksundo, Dhotrap, Numala Base Camp, and the beautiful blue color Shey-Phoksundo Lake with around green valley pine forest.
Nepal Wilderness Trekking is a Reliable trekking agency in Nepal, that leads the Lower Dolpo trek expert team, we are sure, that you will have Quality time with our experienced guide and porters, the guide is Knowledgeable and responsible, the Local guide was born in the same area known every corner of trekking trails, history, people, cultures of the Dolpa region.
The Lower Dolpo trek is a stunning trekking destination in the Dolpo region of western Nepal that offers a unique cultural and wilderness experience. Some of the main highlights of the Lower Dolpo trek include:
Shey Phoksundo National Park: The trek takes you through the beautiful Shey Phoksundo National Park, which is home to the stunning Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake in Nepal. The park also offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks and rare flora and fauna.
Ancient Tibetan monasteries: The Lower Dolpo region is known for its ancient Tibetan monasteries, including the Shey Gompa, which dates back to the 11th century. These monasteries offer a glimpse into the region’s unique Bonpo religion and Tibetan-influenced culture.
Remote traditional villages: The Lower Dolpo trek takes you through several traditional villages and hamlets, where you can experience the unique culture and traditions of the Dolpo people. You can interact with the friendly locals and learn about their daily life and customs.
High-altitude passes: The trek includes challenging high-altitude passes like the Kang La Pass (5,350m) and the Jeng La Pass (5,090m), which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Scenic landscapes: The Lower Dolpo region is known for its rugged and remote landscapes, including deep valleys, stunning waterfalls, and barren hillsides. The trek offers breathtaking views of these landscapes and provides a unique wilderness experience.
The trek is quite challenging, with high-altitude passes like the Kang La Pass (5,350m) and the Jeng La Pass (5,090m). You will need to have a good level of fitness and acclimatization to undertake this trek. The best time to do the Lower Dolpo trek is from March to May and from September to November.
The Lower Dolpo trek is a great way to experience the unique culture and traditions of the Dolpo region. You will get to meet the friendly and hospitable Dolpo people and learn about their ancient Bonpo religion and Tibetan-influenced culture.
NOTE: It is recommended that you arrive in Kathmandu 2days before you start your trek It would be best for you to arrive 2 days early because need to make the permits, learn about the trek you are doing, learn about the routes, and buy or hire trekking equipment if needed. By adding some extra days besides the actual trekking days, you can enjoy your trip to Nepal to the fullest. This is without having to worry about preparations.